CardCaptors
When The Last Teardrop Falls
Chapter: Twenty
Li leaned back in his seat glancing over his left should to take a peek at the outside world. More than any other day this week, today seemed the most gloomy. Tomorrow was Sakura's birthday and he would be leaving her the very next day. Li sighed uneasily knowing that he has been warned about this. He has had one too many chances to tell her, but he has never had the courage to. Why couldn't things be the way they used to be? The days when he had so much courage and confidence were long forgotten. How he longed for things to go back the way the used to be. But then again, he wouldn't have Sakura by his side. Why hadn't anything gone his way this year? Fate had a very odd way of setting things up for this young worrior. Li turned his attention to the fair maiden working infront of him and sighed.
'I can't do this,' Li thought sadly. Sakura could hear Li's uneasy breathing from behind her and grew worried. She would wait until the class is over before asking him what the problem was. Li still couldn't concentrate on any of his studies. How could he?
DRIING! DRIING!
"Alright class dismissed," Mr. Terada waved and dismissed them to lunch. "Don't forget about the extra worksheets, they're all due on Monday," he reminded. They class moaned and packed up all their books before heading out into the usually crowded hallways. Li, for the fifth time this week was the last student student to exit the class. Sakura stayed behind and waited for him though.
"Li, are you alright?" Sakura asked breaking the silence.
"Yes of course, what makes you think that I'm not?" Li asked worriedly.
"Well for one thing, you're never last to leave the room," Sakura pointed out. Li was silent.
"And for another, you don't seem to pay attention in any of your classes anymore," Sakura added.
'What's the point? I'm leaving on Sunday,' Li thought sadly.
"And you're a very good student Li, Honor Roll! But..." Sakura began happily.
"But what?" Li asked hesitantly.
"But...now you don't seem to care about anything anymore," Sakura sighed sadly. "That's not the Li I know, you never give up on anything,"
"I care about you Sakura, and I always will," Li reminded gently placing his hand on her cheek. Sakura placed her hand on his own and nodded.
"I know," Sakura replied softly. She kissed him lightly and left the classroom. Li stood there clutching his hands into small tight fists. His breathing was very heavy and tense now.
"No," Li groaned and closed his eyes tightly. "Sakura..." he let out his breath and clutched his heart firmly. "No..."
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"Whats wrong Sakura?" Chelsea asked as Sakura walked towards the group of girls.
"It's Li," Sakura sighed and took a seat beside Madison.
"What did he do this time?" Nikki crossed her arms.
"Hey he didn't do anything before!" Meilin pushed Nikki.
"Well he tried to beat up Sakura before," Nikki argued.
"Yeah but that was two years ago girls," Rita reminded.
"Let's hear what Sakura has to say," Madison hushed the group down.
"I don't know exactly what's wrong, but he just seems a little quiet lately," Sakura shook her head.
"Well sometimes quiet is a good thing," Chelsea nodded.
"It's not for Li's breed," Rita crossed her arms.
"What do you mean breed?" Meilin glared at Rita.
"But what do you mean by quiet?" Nikki inquired.
"He doesn't listen in class, and he doesn't seem to be concentrating on his grades either," Sakura explained.
"How do you know? He sits behind you?" Rita asked in confusion.
"I see him, he really looks worried about something," Madison jumped in.
"Why are you looking at Sakura's boyfriend??" Meilin questioned.
"Hey! Li's my friend too Meilin!" Madison defended herself. "And it's not like YoU don't look at him either," she pouted. The rest of the girls OoOoed.
"Yes well I'm not Sakura's best friend," Meilin backfired. "Plus, don't you like Zachary?" she added. The rest of the girls OoOoed again.
"I do not!" Madison protested.
"I'm not buying it Madison," Meilin crossed her arms confidently.
"Hey guys, this is about Sakura and Li," Chelsea interrupted.
"Oh right, sorry," Madison and Meilin groaned.
"So you mean he's being distant?" Nikki asked worriedly.
"No, it's more like...secretive..." Sakura replied hesitantly. Meilin and Madison gasped at the same time finally understanding why.
"Oh I'm sure he just has a lot on his mind," Madison jumped in.
"But why wouldn't he want to share it with her?" Rita questioned.
"Yeah," Chelsea agreed.
"Maybe he's having an affair," Meilin shrugged. The whole group gasped.
"Meilin! You very well know that's not it!" Madison yelled at Meilin.
"Know what?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"Uh..." Madison gulped. All the girls were staring at her awaiting a good response.
"Uh...because...we all know that Li would never do anything so stupid," Madison waved the thought away.
"Yeah, Li loves you too much Sakura," Nikki agreed. Sakura looked around at her group of friends and began to smile.
"You guys are the best!" Sakura laughed giving them all a group hug.
"Anytime Sakura," They all replied happily.
"You know what? I think I'll throw a birthday party tomorrow just to say thanks," Sakura smiled when they all parted from the group hug.
"Really??" They all asked eargerly.
"Yeah, it'll be so much fun," Sakura nodded.
"I guess it'll give and Li sometime to talk about his problem," Nikki added.
"Yeah," Sakura sighed. Their conversation was suddenly disturbed by the loud school bell.
"Okay girls, we getter get going," Rita warned and headed towards the building. They followed one by one Sakura being the last to follow. She let in a deep breath and entered the building.
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The rest of the day went by fairly slowly. Li was still a little quiet, but Sakura tried her best to be supportive and understand that he just might be too uncomfortable telling her his problem. But for some apparent reason Sakura began to feel like it was all her fault. Everytime she smiled at him he would just smile weakly and nodd. Despite all these signs and emotions she was getting, she tried her best to keep it in. It was probably better for the both of them anyway. She didn't want to add another problem for Li to take care of. Finally the day ended and the students all cheered for the weekend as they headed towards their lockers.
"Li!" Sakura called after him in the hallway.
"Yes Sakura?" Li turned around to face her.
"Um...I know you don't feel good today but I was wondering if you can make it to my birthday party tomorrow?" Sakura asked hopefully.
"Of course Sakura," Li held her hand and kissed her forehead. "I wouldn't miss it for the world," he smiled trying to hide his feelings.
"Great! It's tomorrow at 6:30," Sakura informed.
"That's okay with me," Li shrugged.
"Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow," Sakura said hesitantly. Li nodded and kissed Sakura good bye before watching her head home.
"Tomorrow is our last day together..." Li whispered sadly.
_______________________________________________________________
Li closed the door to his apartment and lazily walked into his living room. He stared hopelessly at the various boxes that sat around the room.
"My life fits in boxes," Li sighed. He walked to the some of the boxes and began to label them. As he finished writing on each box he grew more and more frustrated. His writing became more sloppy and he wasn't concentrating on what he was writing. The only thing that was going through his mind at that moment was what an idiot he was for waiting until the last minute to tell Sakura that he was leaving. Why hadn't he listened to Madison?? Because he was a complete cowered that's why! Because he's a big cowered! He scribbled angrily on the box as the thought ran through his mind. Suddenly, he couldn't take it anymore and threw the marker across the room. He helplessly pounded his fists onto the floor below him and wept.
"I'm sorry Sakura, I'm really sorry," Li cried on the floor. A few moments later he sat himself up against the wall but buried his face in his hands. He looked to his side and found the bear. Li picked it up and stared at it. It was as if he was looking for a sign. Something. Anything.
"I really screwed this one up didn't I?" Li asked the bear. Of course it didn't reply, but it was just a good feeling to talk to something. Just as he began to calm himself down, the phone rang. Li unwillingly walked towards the phone and picked it up.
"Hello?" Li answered in a very tired tone.
"Li?" A familiar female voice replied. There was a short pause.
"Mother?" Li asked in shock.
"Yes, it's me Li," Mrs. Li answered happily. "How are you son?"
"Tired," Li chuckled a little.
"From all you're packing?" Mrs. Li laughed.
"Don't remind me," Li sighed.
"Oh Li, I know that it's hard leaving Japan but you're going home now," Mrs. Li reminded.
"Yes well, Japan is like a home to me now," Li added.
"It's Sakura, isn't it?" Mrs. Li questioned.
"Well, it is going to be hard leaving her," Li reminded.
"I suppose so, but she'll be fine," Mrs. Li assured him. Li was rather upset though. It was as if Sakura was nothing! He loved her! It WILL be hard leaving her, and who knows if she'll be fine! Why couldn't his mom be more understanding!
"Right," Li sighed. "So what did you call for?" he quickly changed the subject.
"Well I was wondering if I could have Sakura's number," Mrs. Li asked casually.
"What?? Why?" Li asked in confusion.
"Well just for emergency," Mrs. Li added.
"Why would you need to know her number for emergency?" Li asked still confused.
"Well, I tried calling you several times but nobody answered, so I assumed that you were at Sakura's house," Mrs. Li explained.
"I don't go to her house that often," Li mumbled.
"Just in case Li," Mrs. Li reminded.
"Okay okay," Li nodded in defeat. He quickly gave his mother Sakura's number and hung up the phone. As much as he loved his mother, he just had to hate her right now. Li let in a big sigh and closed his eyes.
____________________________________________________________________
"Morning birthday girl," Mr. Kinomoto greeted softly. Sakura blinked for a few moments and lazily rolled over to her side to look at her father.
"Thanks dad," Sakura smiled tiredly.
"Here," Mr. Kinomoto smiled handing her a present. "I wanted to be the first," he shrugged. Sakura blinked faster and sat up taking the present.
"Aww dad," Sakura laughed and hugged her father.
"Well go on, open it," Mr. Kinomoto insisted. Sakura nodded and began to unwrap the gift.
"A stationary set!" Sakura said happily picking up the huge stationary set. "Thank you!"
"Well you never know when it may come in handy," Mr. Kinomoto replied trying to be positive. But it was hard, I mean, he did know about Li...
"What's going on in here?" Tori asked in a throaty voice as he pushed the door open.
"I was just greeting Sakura a happy birthday," Mr. Kinomoto informed.
"Oh yeah, happy birthday squirt," Tori laughed messing up her hair.
"Tori!!" Sakura groaned.
"What I didn't have a gift," Tori shrugged. "So I'll just give my love," he teased while batting his eyes like a girl.
"UGH!" Sakura pouted. "Your love..." she snorted.
"Well with me as your older brother isn't that good enough? I mean, what an honor!" Tori flattered himself. Mr. Kinomoto laughed listening to them argue. Of course he knew it was just a brother and sister thing. With Tori, being Tori, and Sakura reacting to his remarks, it was a little amusing.
"I hate being your sister," Sakura crossed her arms.
"UGH...I'm hurt!" Tori stabbed himself in the gutt and fell to the floor. Sakura pouted for awhile then slowly began to laugh. She knew Tori didn't mean it in a bad way, he was just being himself.
"You hurt my feelings!" Tori whined. "Well you know what?" he pouted.
"What?" Sakura played along.
"You're a mistake! You're a joke!" Tori danced around her room repeating it over and over again.
"Hey! That's not true!" Sakura protested trowing pillows at him.
"Sure it is, you were born on April Fools!" Tori laughed dodging the various pillows.
"Okay! What's going on here!" Kero flew out of his drawer rubbing his eyes.
"EEEEKKKKK!!!" Tori shrieked in a very high pitched voice. He was the closest to the drawer.
"Oh good morning Kero," Mr. Kinomoto greeted.
"Kero!!" Sakura quickly covered her eyes.
"Wait?! Kero?! Dad! You know what this is??" Sakura and Tori asked in shock, for two totally different reasons.
"Hey I'm a guy, not a "this" Tori!" Kero argued crossing his arms.
"AHHH!!! It's knows my name!!" Tori screamed.
"Ahem, the IT has a name you know," Kero flew to Tori face. Tori stood there stunned. He was face to face with a flying stuffed animal.
"Tori, meet Kero," Sakura said hesitantly.
"Sakura...you knew that there was a flying stuffed animal living in your drawer right?" Tori asked still staring into the eyes of the beast.
"Yes..." Sakura replied quietly.
"Dad...You too???" Tori asked in shock.
"Yeah dad, you knew about Kero?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"Yes well..." Mr. Kinomoto scratched his head shyly. Kero stuck his tongue out at Tori which made him jump and then flew over to Mr. Kinomoto's shoulder. Mr. Kinomoto patted him for awhile before answering Sakura's question.
"Yes I knew about Kero," Mr. Kinomoto smiled.
"How??" Tori and Sakura asked.
"Well I was cleaning up your room when Kero popped out of the drawer," Mr. Kinomoto explained.
"So when did it come alive?" Tori asked slowly trying to pick Kero up.
"Kero was always alive," Sakura replied calmly.
"What! So it's been living with us for two years?????" Tori asked still shocked. Sakura, Mr. Kinomoto and Kero nodded.
"So what are you? What do you do?" Tori questioned holding Kero on his flat palm.
"I am the guardian beast of the seal," Kero replied proudly. The room was silent.
"Okay okay, for those who do not know anything about the Clow, I kinda protect Sakura...and I'm kinda like an advisor..." Kero scratched his head.
"You? Protect my little sister??" Tori gave him the eyebrow. "But you're so tiny!" he added trying to flick him. Kero quickly bit his finger and left it at that.
"Geez!" Tori jumped. "Okay I get you're point!" he grumbed as he watched his finger turn red.
"Well Julien - I mean Yue is more like her guardian," Kero informed.
"WHAT??? You mean Julien knows about you!" Tori fell off the bed. "Am I the last one?" he asked innocently as he crawled back onto the bed.
"Well no, Chelsea, Rita, and Nikki don't know..." Sakura tried to make him feel better. Tori did an anime fall.
"Here let me explain," Sakura sighed and began to explain about the whole "Card Captoring" ideal. Mr. Kinomoto just sat aside and patted Kero because he already knew about all this. Kero explained it all to him before.
"Wow...I feel so...so...honored..." Tori shook his head.
"What? To be my brother?" Sakura asked adoring herself.
"No, that's not it," Tori replied seriously. Sakura sweatdropped.
"Wait! So my little sister...is the Clow Mistress??" Tori asked trying to understanding something.
"Yes," Sakura replied proudly.
"Then that would make the brat..." Tori thought aloud.
"That's Master Brat to you!" Kero corrected.
"Okay okay kids, I think it's time to get ready for the party later today," Mr. Kinomoto interrupted. "Let's eat first," he suggested. Everyone nodded and began to walk out.
"You too Kero," Mr. Kinomoto smiled.
"Really??" Kero asked exctitedly.
"Yeah, I mean they all know about you Kero," Sakura shrugged. Tori nodded.
"WOOHOO!" Kero cheered and zoomed downstairs. Mr. Kinomoto laughed and followed.
"Now he's cool," Tori laughed and ran downstairs. Sakura sighed at her odd family but headed downstairs too.
__________________________________________________________________
"Now that's a little harsh don't you think Li?" Madison asked worriedly as she walked beside Li.
"Yes I know it's her birthday, but I have to tell her today," Li replied in frustration.
"I was never really good friends with Sakura, but yeah, that is a little harsh," Meilin bit her lip nervously who was on the other side of Li.
"Okay okay, you girls don't have to rub it in," Li sighed.
"We're just saying," Madison shrugged.
"Yeah I know," Li slouched his shoulders. "Hey Madison, aren't you going to tell me I told you so?" he added sarcastically.
"As much as I'd love to, it just won't make the situation any better," Madison pointed out.
"Okay I'll say it," Meilin interrupted. "She told you so,"
"Fair enough," Li rolled his eyes.
"Well you better have a really good birthday present to give her," Madison warned.
"I don't have anything to give her," Li mumbled.
"WHAT??? so basically your birthday present is your departure???" Meilin jumped in.
"No! It's just that if I give her a present then she'll probably think that it's something that is suppose to make up for my stupidity," Li explained.
"Good point," Madison agreed reluctantly.
"HUH?? Hell no..." Meilin threw her arms into the air.
"Meilin I know Sakura, she'd think that," Li nodded.
"Hey I would too," Madison said agreeing with Li's observations.
"Hmph! Japanese girls..." Meilin pouted.
"I guess all we can do tonight is stay out of your way and wish you good luck huh Li?" Madison looked up at him with fearful eyes.
"Yeah..." Li replied trying to put on a reassuring smiled.
"Well then good luck," Madison nodded as they approached Sakura's house.
"You'll need it," Meilin shook her head sadly. Li nodded and rang the doorbell. They could hear faint footsteps running towards the door. Soon the door flung wide open as the rumbling sound of loud music blew out of the house and onto the street.
"Come on in," Sakura yelled over the loud music. The trio entered the dim house that was only lit up with swirling colors of red, orange, yellow, pink, green, purple and blue. The music seemed to be shaking the floor below them. They waved happily at the familiar classmates who were dancing around the room.
"Don't worry, you'll get used to it," Sakura smiled as she danced around the room. The trio nodded and hung their spring coats near the entrance and joined the crowd of students.
"I should've known the brat would make a grand entrance," Tori crossed his arms. Sakura turned her head in Tori's direction and rolled her eyes. She didn't quite hear what he had said since the music was so loud, but knowing Tori it was bound to be something bad. The crowd of pre-teens danced happily for the next two hours. Li of course has grown into the show-off type of character and began to spin Sakura around the dance floor. Soon enough all the boys were able to imitate Li's moves and began to swirl all their partners in circles around them. Everyone laughed as they twirled around their partners. The boys moved quickly as they competed over who had the most style. The girls laughed as they ducked under and rolled over their partners. Near the end of each song Li made it a tradition to dip Sakura. She loved this part the most, it was so kawaii. When the song was over the whole gang laughed even louder and headed over to the kitchen to eat some dinner. The girls sat and talked while the boys went back to the dance floor to teach eachother new moves that they came up with.
"Wow Sakura! Your parties rock!!!" Nikki screamed and slouched onto the couch.
"Yeah! I've never had this much fun before in my life!" Rita agreed.
"I feel like I'm in that movie Dance With Me!" Chelsea added.
"What a work out," Meilin let in a deep breath.
"Uh huh, my ankles are starting to really hurt," Madison laughed and rubbed her ankles.
"Thanks you guys," Sakura scratched her head.
"Hey, where do you think the boys leanred how to do all this stuff?" Nikki inquired.
"I don't know, but I think I have an idea," Madison laughed and glanced at Sakura.
"Yeah me too," Rita laughed along.
"Who?" Chelsea gave everyone the eyebrow.
"Li of course!" Madison, Meilin and Rita laughed together. Sakura sat silently and scratched her head. All the boys turned around to the sound of Li's name.
"Did someone say my name?" Li grinned but still remained crouching.
"Yeah we were just teasing Sakura about how talented and superior her boyfriend was," Chelsea batted her eyes.
"Chelsea!" Sakura laughed pushing her friend over.
"Why thank you," Li bowed playing along with Chelsea. All the boys began to follow Li and walked on over to the table to eat.
"What did he do that's so special?" Zachary pouted and took a seat next to Madison.
"Everything that you haven't done," Meilin mumbled as the other girls giggled.
"No really...what...?" Zachary twiddled with his thumbs.
"He taught all you boys to dance!" Rita reminded.
"What??? Hey I knew how to dance!" Zachary argued.
"Yeah right," Meilin rolled her eyes.
"From where?" Madison questioned. Everyone turned their attention to Zachary and awaited an answer.
"I...I...I took lessons! Yeah! That's it! I took lessons!" Zachary shook his head.
"Yeah, from Li," Meilin teased. All the boys chuckled quietly at the poor fool.
"You're in quick sand buddy, no use in fighting it," Li patted his friend on the back.
"Then get me out," Zachary mumbled. Li stared at Zachary and gave him a "are you kidding me?" look. The group was quiet for awhile until...
"Hey I hear a party!" A familiar voice sang from Sakura's room.
"Oh No..." Madison, Meilin, Sakura, Li, and Tori shook their heads in fear.
"Save some for the KING!!!" Kero yelled happily and he zoomed into the kitchen.
"Pssshhh...the LION king..." Meilin rolled her eyes and continued to eat. Kero smiled at the group of kids and quickly picked on their food.
"Kero!" Sakura yelled trying to brush him away.
"Always knew he was trouble," Li yawned.
"Oh boy," Madison sighed and buried her head into her hands.
"What is this???" The guys questioned.
"AHHHH!!! It's a big fly!" The girls squealed. The rest of the group sweatdropped.
"Tori do something!" Sakura begged.
"Sakura what is that thing?" Nikki asked trying to calm down.
"Uhhh...." Sakura scratched her head.
"Uhh...it's...a..." Tori tried to back her up. "It's a new model for...Puppy Dog Poo-chi!!" he finally blurted out. Li quickly spat out the punch he was drinking and began to cough.
"Smooth...very slick!" Li joked between coughs.
"Quiet brat!" Tori quickly mumbled. "Well if you all don't mind I better be heading upstairs with Poo-chi here...aheheheh..." Tori smiled weakly and ran upstairs.
"ookkaayy..." Nikki and Zachary sighed and gave everyone the eyebrow. Sakura sighed in relief and quickly changed the subject.
"More dancing?" Sakura suggested and quickly stood up.
"Yeah!" Everyone cheered and heaed out towards the living room. Sakura put on some Salsa music at full blast so nobody could hear Kero.
"Let's go Sakura," Li flashed another charming smile at her as she took his hand. The made their way to the center of the floor and began to do the mambo. Soon enough every couple was on the dance floor.
"Anyone dare to do that salsa club scene from Dance with me?" Madison teased. All the guys nodded and grinned at eachother. At first everything was normal just simple back and forth dancing. Soon enough the boys began to spin the girls into their arms faster and faster until they had to duck under their arms and roll over their backs. After a few minutes of doing that the boys twirled them once more but let go of them in a counter-clockwise direction. Everyone switched partners and began to do the whole routine again. When things were getting a little tiring Tori switched it to a slow song. Everyone stuck to their partner and just began to slow dance with them.
"Man, this is more tiring than I thought," Li whispered to Sakura but still panting.
"Yeah," Sakura smiled. "But you're not going to give up yet are you?" she teased.
"Not that easily," Li grinned. Sakura laughed and rested her head under his chin. There was a moment of silence.
"I don't smell, do I?" Li asked trying to be serious. Sakura playfully whacked him on the back.
"What?" Li teased.
"No, you don't smell," Sakura laughed.
"Good," Li laughed along. Sakura slowly began to look up at him with those soft puppy eyes. There is a faint sound of the phone ringing but everyone ignored it because the music is so loud. Sakura smiled and wiped away some of Li's sweat with the sleeve of her shirt.
"Uh...thanks," Li chuckles a bit.
"I love you Li," Sakura sighed and rested her head back under his chin. "We'll be like this always right?" she asks softly but enough for him to hear her. Li tilted her chin up to look at him, with his conscience burning to tell her the truth about their future. He could hear his voice being called over and again somewhere faintly in the background but ignored it anyway.
"Sakura I..." Li began sadly about to tell her about his plans for Hong Kong until suddenly the song ends.
"LI YOU'RE MOM IS ON THE PHONE AND WANTS TO CONFIRM YOU FLIGHT HOME TOMORROW!!!" Tori yelled loudly for the 50th time. He suddenly realized that everyone is looking right at him and that the song has ended.
'Oh no...' Meilin and Madison gulped at the same time. Sakura's eyes, that moments ago were filled with hope and love, were now over flowing with tears. Everyone was speechless. Sakura wiped her eyes and tried to put on a smile.
"HaHa Tori! Almost got me there, April Fools right?" Sakura laughed weakly because she was in denial. "I'll have to get you back for that one!" she smiled. Her smiled soon faded as she stared into Li's serious eyes.
"Tori's not joking, is he Li?" Sakura asked seriously, but turned away.
"Sakura I-" Li tried to explain but Sakura ran off up to her room not wanting to hear his pathetic excuses. Li was left on the dance floor once again.
"Go after her Li," All the guests encouraged him. Li nodded with renewed courage.
"Why does this type of thing always happen on the dance floor?" Madison sighed.
"Yeah it's like that Valentine's day dance," Nikki shook her head sadly.
"Oh well at least he improved," Meilin shrugged.
"What do you mean?" Everyone asked.
"Well, he didn't take as long to go after her," Meilin reminded. Everyone sweatdropped.
_____________________________________________________________
Li stood outside Sakura's room for a few minutes, trying to figure out what to say. He could hear her whimpering. How he hated to hear or see her like this. The worst part was, it was all his fault. Li let in a deep breath and slowly opened her door. He could see Sakura crying uncontrollably into her pillow. Swallowing up all his fears Li hesitantly made his way to Sakura's bed.
"Sakura I'-" Li began quietly.
"Go away Li!! Just leave me alone!" Sakura yelled harshly.
"Sakura please, hear me out," Li begged for a chance to explain himself.
"Why should I," Sakura replied coldly and turned to face him. Her eyes were all red and watery. Her beautiful rosey face, always full of color and life, were now pale and waxy. Li was silent not knowing how to respond.
"You're right Sakura," Li sighed in defeat. "I don't have a good reason for you to forgive me, I don't know why you should even hear me out, Heck I don't even have a birthday present for you!" he lowered his head sadly.
"Then what are you doing up here?" Sakura asked firmly as she turned her head away.
"Because I would feel much better if I told you the whole story," Li replied sadly.
"Fine then," Sakura sighed. "How long have you known about your departure?" she asked very seriously. There was a moment of silence.
"Since last summer, when we caught all the cards," Li replied reluctantly.
"What??" Sakura whirled around to see his face. "Last summer??"
"Yes," Li lowered his head in shame. "Remember when I first arrived here I told you that I was going to leave as soon as all the cards were caught?" Li asked trying to come up with an excuse. Sakura was silent. "Well when we caught all the cards I called my mom and told her that my mission was over, and that I was coming home," he finished.
"Why didn't you tell me that you were leaving back then?" Sakura asked starting to get a little angry again.
"I didn't think that it mattered to you," Li explained.
"Then why didn't you tell me earlier," Sakura shook her head. Her voice sounded like she was going to collapse.
"I don't know, I was just being a coward. And I guess I was afraid of your reaction," Li replied trying to put his hand on her shoulder.
"Don't touch me Li!" Sakura moved away from him. "How did you think I was going to react!" she yelled. "Am I suppose to be okay with this??" she blurted out in total anger.
"I'm sorry Sakura," Li slowly moved his hand away from her.
"Then why did you let me fall in love with you?" Sakura asked softly trying not to cry.
"I...I...I..." Li mumbled trying to come up with a good response. But there was nothing to say. There was another moment of silence.
"Listen Sakura, I just want to say what was on my mind this past year, so please just let me explain," Li pleaded in frustration. Sakura nodded slowly.
"I have loved you for a long time, but I ignored it fearing that it would make me weak," Li began. "Soon I couldn't ignore it, but then I didn't want to do anything about it, knowing that I was leaving," he continued. "I didn't want to have to leave the one girl that I'll ever love, so that's why I didn't want to tell you how I felt about you sooner," he continued almost crying now.
"Li I-" Sakura tried to interrupt but it was no use. Li placed one finger on her lips, begging her to let him finish.
"And now that you know just how much I love you, I don't want to leave you," Li confessed letting some tears fall down his face. Sakura felt like she too was going to break down and cry.
"Sakura please I'm sorry and I love you, forgive me," Li pleaded and held her hand firmly. "I have so many things to say, but my heart is racing so fast that I can't get the words past my lips," he breathed heavily.
"But Li, I love you too much. And I don't know which answer would make me feel better. To forgive you, or to not forgive you," Sakura shook her head sadly with the teardrops flowing down her cheek. "If I forgive you then it's like I'm letting you go, but if I don't forgive you it's like I'm trying to hold on to something," she explained.
"I understand," Li nodded. He slowly let go of her hand and stood up. "I guess I should be going then," he sighed sadly and headed towards her door. Sakura sat on the bed quietly staring out the window, trying not to look at him. She didn't want to see him leave her. She wanted to keep the memories happy. It was no use. Sakura slowly turned her head to face his direction. She closed her eyes tightly, trying to be strong.
"Li wait!" Sakura blurted out just as Li grabbed the doorknob. He turned around to see Sakura standing infront of him.
"Look, it's bad enough that you are leaving, but that wasn't why I was mad at you Li. I was sad that you were leaving, but what got me mad was that you had to lie and keep it a secret," she explained. " And I'm sorry," Sakura replied softly.
"For what?" Li asked in confusion.
"For being such a pain, I should've been more understanding," Sakura sighed.
"No, no, don't apologize," Li gently place his hand on her cheek. "I should've told you sooner," he shook his head. "I've planned everything in my life, except you. I didn't plan on falling in love with you," he confessed.
"That's why I forgive you Li," Sakura replied softly placing her hand ontop of his. They stared into eachother's eyes for a few moments as they moved in closer to eachother until they were face to face. They kissed passionately for a few minutes. The kiss became more deep and passionate as Sakura slipped her arms around Li's neck and he slid his arms around her waist. After they had kissed they sat down against one of the walls. Sakura placed her head against his chest. While he rested his head ontop of hers, with his arms around her waist. They could hear eachother breathing. Oh how neither of them wanted tonight to end.
"Promise me that you'll never forget about me," Sakura asked sadly. Li looked down into her eyes.
"Never," Li whispered softly. They kissed once more before falling asleep in eachother's arms.
~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~
Now I really hope that you liked this chapter. Not because she found out that he was leaving
but because, well you know! I just want you all to know that this is my LAST chapter. Yep you read
correctly. This is the LAST chapter. The next one is my Epilogue. A faily long epilogue if you ask
me. It's when Li's leaving...
I need to ask ALL you readers/reviewers to do me a favor. I need you ALL to vote on something
for me. Can you do that? well here is the question. I am now working on my sequel but I need a title!
now I know that only two of you people know what is happening in the sequel but I need ALL of you
to vote on a title that YOU think sounds the most appealing to you.
-Should I Love You?
-Two Weddings and a Reunion
-Why is it still you?
Do not ask where I got those titles, but yeah...just please cast in a vote telling me which one
you want to see!! I'll reveal the title in my epilogue, so cast in your votes as soon as possible.
When The Last Teardrop Falls
Chapter: Twenty
Li leaned back in his seat glancing over his left should to take a peek at the outside world. More than any other day this week, today seemed the most gloomy. Tomorrow was Sakura's birthday and he would be leaving her the very next day. Li sighed uneasily knowing that he has been warned about this. He has had one too many chances to tell her, but he has never had the courage to. Why couldn't things be the way they used to be? The days when he had so much courage and confidence were long forgotten. How he longed for things to go back the way the used to be. But then again, he wouldn't have Sakura by his side. Why hadn't anything gone his way this year? Fate had a very odd way of setting things up for this young worrior. Li turned his attention to the fair maiden working infront of him and sighed.
'I can't do this,' Li thought sadly. Sakura could hear Li's uneasy breathing from behind her and grew worried. She would wait until the class is over before asking him what the problem was. Li still couldn't concentrate on any of his studies. How could he?
DRIING! DRIING!
"Alright class dismissed," Mr. Terada waved and dismissed them to lunch. "Don't forget about the extra worksheets, they're all due on Monday," he reminded. They class moaned and packed up all their books before heading out into the usually crowded hallways. Li, for the fifth time this week was the last student student to exit the class. Sakura stayed behind and waited for him though.
"Li, are you alright?" Sakura asked breaking the silence.
"Yes of course, what makes you think that I'm not?" Li asked worriedly.
"Well for one thing, you're never last to leave the room," Sakura pointed out. Li was silent.
"And for another, you don't seem to pay attention in any of your classes anymore," Sakura added.
'What's the point? I'm leaving on Sunday,' Li thought sadly.
"And you're a very good student Li, Honor Roll! But..." Sakura began happily.
"But what?" Li asked hesitantly.
"But...now you don't seem to care about anything anymore," Sakura sighed sadly. "That's not the Li I know, you never give up on anything,"
"I care about you Sakura, and I always will," Li reminded gently placing his hand on her cheek. Sakura placed her hand on his own and nodded.
"I know," Sakura replied softly. She kissed him lightly and left the classroom. Li stood there clutching his hands into small tight fists. His breathing was very heavy and tense now.
"No," Li groaned and closed his eyes tightly. "Sakura..." he let out his breath and clutched his heart firmly. "No..."
________________________________________________________________
"Whats wrong Sakura?" Chelsea asked as Sakura walked towards the group of girls.
"It's Li," Sakura sighed and took a seat beside Madison.
"What did he do this time?" Nikki crossed her arms.
"Hey he didn't do anything before!" Meilin pushed Nikki.
"Well he tried to beat up Sakura before," Nikki argued.
"Yeah but that was two years ago girls," Rita reminded.
"Let's hear what Sakura has to say," Madison hushed the group down.
"I don't know exactly what's wrong, but he just seems a little quiet lately," Sakura shook her head.
"Well sometimes quiet is a good thing," Chelsea nodded.
"It's not for Li's breed," Rita crossed her arms.
"What do you mean breed?" Meilin glared at Rita.
"But what do you mean by quiet?" Nikki inquired.
"He doesn't listen in class, and he doesn't seem to be concentrating on his grades either," Sakura explained.
"How do you know? He sits behind you?" Rita asked in confusion.
"I see him, he really looks worried about something," Madison jumped in.
"Why are you looking at Sakura's boyfriend??" Meilin questioned.
"Hey! Li's my friend too Meilin!" Madison defended herself. "And it's not like YoU don't look at him either," she pouted. The rest of the girls OoOoed.
"Yes well I'm not Sakura's best friend," Meilin backfired. "Plus, don't you like Zachary?" she added. The rest of the girls OoOoed again.
"I do not!" Madison protested.
"I'm not buying it Madison," Meilin crossed her arms confidently.
"Hey guys, this is about Sakura and Li," Chelsea interrupted.
"Oh right, sorry," Madison and Meilin groaned.
"So you mean he's being distant?" Nikki asked worriedly.
"No, it's more like...secretive..." Sakura replied hesitantly. Meilin and Madison gasped at the same time finally understanding why.
"Oh I'm sure he just has a lot on his mind," Madison jumped in.
"But why wouldn't he want to share it with her?" Rita questioned.
"Yeah," Chelsea agreed.
"Maybe he's having an affair," Meilin shrugged. The whole group gasped.
"Meilin! You very well know that's not it!" Madison yelled at Meilin.
"Know what?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"Uh..." Madison gulped. All the girls were staring at her awaiting a good response.
"Uh...because...we all know that Li would never do anything so stupid," Madison waved the thought away.
"Yeah, Li loves you too much Sakura," Nikki agreed. Sakura looked around at her group of friends and began to smile.
"You guys are the best!" Sakura laughed giving them all a group hug.
"Anytime Sakura," They all replied happily.
"You know what? I think I'll throw a birthday party tomorrow just to say thanks," Sakura smiled when they all parted from the group hug.
"Really??" They all asked eargerly.
"Yeah, it'll be so much fun," Sakura nodded.
"I guess it'll give and Li sometime to talk about his problem," Nikki added.
"Yeah," Sakura sighed. Their conversation was suddenly disturbed by the loud school bell.
"Okay girls, we getter get going," Rita warned and headed towards the building. They followed one by one Sakura being the last to follow. She let in a deep breath and entered the building.
______________________________________________________________
The rest of the day went by fairly slowly. Li was still a little quiet, but Sakura tried her best to be supportive and understand that he just might be too uncomfortable telling her his problem. But for some apparent reason Sakura began to feel like it was all her fault. Everytime she smiled at him he would just smile weakly and nodd. Despite all these signs and emotions she was getting, she tried her best to keep it in. It was probably better for the both of them anyway. She didn't want to add another problem for Li to take care of. Finally the day ended and the students all cheered for the weekend as they headed towards their lockers.
"Li!" Sakura called after him in the hallway.
"Yes Sakura?" Li turned around to face her.
"Um...I know you don't feel good today but I was wondering if you can make it to my birthday party tomorrow?" Sakura asked hopefully.
"Of course Sakura," Li held her hand and kissed her forehead. "I wouldn't miss it for the world," he smiled trying to hide his feelings.
"Great! It's tomorrow at 6:30," Sakura informed.
"That's okay with me," Li shrugged.
"Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow," Sakura said hesitantly. Li nodded and kissed Sakura good bye before watching her head home.
"Tomorrow is our last day together..." Li whispered sadly.
_______________________________________________________________
Li closed the door to his apartment and lazily walked into his living room. He stared hopelessly at the various boxes that sat around the room.
"My life fits in boxes," Li sighed. He walked to the some of the boxes and began to label them. As he finished writing on each box he grew more and more frustrated. His writing became more sloppy and he wasn't concentrating on what he was writing. The only thing that was going through his mind at that moment was what an idiot he was for waiting until the last minute to tell Sakura that he was leaving. Why hadn't he listened to Madison?? Because he was a complete cowered that's why! Because he's a big cowered! He scribbled angrily on the box as the thought ran through his mind. Suddenly, he couldn't take it anymore and threw the marker across the room. He helplessly pounded his fists onto the floor below him and wept.
"I'm sorry Sakura, I'm really sorry," Li cried on the floor. A few moments later he sat himself up against the wall but buried his face in his hands. He looked to his side and found the bear. Li picked it up and stared at it. It was as if he was looking for a sign. Something. Anything.
"I really screwed this one up didn't I?" Li asked the bear. Of course it didn't reply, but it was just a good feeling to talk to something. Just as he began to calm himself down, the phone rang. Li unwillingly walked towards the phone and picked it up.
"Hello?" Li answered in a very tired tone.
"Li?" A familiar female voice replied. There was a short pause.
"Mother?" Li asked in shock.
"Yes, it's me Li," Mrs. Li answered happily. "How are you son?"
"Tired," Li chuckled a little.
"From all you're packing?" Mrs. Li laughed.
"Don't remind me," Li sighed.
"Oh Li, I know that it's hard leaving Japan but you're going home now," Mrs. Li reminded.
"Yes well, Japan is like a home to me now," Li added.
"It's Sakura, isn't it?" Mrs. Li questioned.
"Well, it is going to be hard leaving her," Li reminded.
"I suppose so, but she'll be fine," Mrs. Li assured him. Li was rather upset though. It was as if Sakura was nothing! He loved her! It WILL be hard leaving her, and who knows if she'll be fine! Why couldn't his mom be more understanding!
"Right," Li sighed. "So what did you call for?" he quickly changed the subject.
"Well I was wondering if I could have Sakura's number," Mrs. Li asked casually.
"What?? Why?" Li asked in confusion.
"Well just for emergency," Mrs. Li added.
"Why would you need to know her number for emergency?" Li asked still confused.
"Well, I tried calling you several times but nobody answered, so I assumed that you were at Sakura's house," Mrs. Li explained.
"I don't go to her house that often," Li mumbled.
"Just in case Li," Mrs. Li reminded.
"Okay okay," Li nodded in defeat. He quickly gave his mother Sakura's number and hung up the phone. As much as he loved his mother, he just had to hate her right now. Li let in a big sigh and closed his eyes.
____________________________________________________________________
"Morning birthday girl," Mr. Kinomoto greeted softly. Sakura blinked for a few moments and lazily rolled over to her side to look at her father.
"Thanks dad," Sakura smiled tiredly.
"Here," Mr. Kinomoto smiled handing her a present. "I wanted to be the first," he shrugged. Sakura blinked faster and sat up taking the present.
"Aww dad," Sakura laughed and hugged her father.
"Well go on, open it," Mr. Kinomoto insisted. Sakura nodded and began to unwrap the gift.
"A stationary set!" Sakura said happily picking up the huge stationary set. "Thank you!"
"Well you never know when it may come in handy," Mr. Kinomoto replied trying to be positive. But it was hard, I mean, he did know about Li...
"What's going on in here?" Tori asked in a throaty voice as he pushed the door open.
"I was just greeting Sakura a happy birthday," Mr. Kinomoto informed.
"Oh yeah, happy birthday squirt," Tori laughed messing up her hair.
"Tori!!" Sakura groaned.
"What I didn't have a gift," Tori shrugged. "So I'll just give my love," he teased while batting his eyes like a girl.
"UGH!" Sakura pouted. "Your love..." she snorted.
"Well with me as your older brother isn't that good enough? I mean, what an honor!" Tori flattered himself. Mr. Kinomoto laughed listening to them argue. Of course he knew it was just a brother and sister thing. With Tori, being Tori, and Sakura reacting to his remarks, it was a little amusing.
"I hate being your sister," Sakura crossed her arms.
"UGH...I'm hurt!" Tori stabbed himself in the gutt and fell to the floor. Sakura pouted for awhile then slowly began to laugh. She knew Tori didn't mean it in a bad way, he was just being himself.
"You hurt my feelings!" Tori whined. "Well you know what?" he pouted.
"What?" Sakura played along.
"You're a mistake! You're a joke!" Tori danced around her room repeating it over and over again.
"Hey! That's not true!" Sakura protested trowing pillows at him.
"Sure it is, you were born on April Fools!" Tori laughed dodging the various pillows.
"Okay! What's going on here!" Kero flew out of his drawer rubbing his eyes.
"EEEEKKKKK!!!" Tori shrieked in a very high pitched voice. He was the closest to the drawer.
"Oh good morning Kero," Mr. Kinomoto greeted.
"Kero!!" Sakura quickly covered her eyes.
"Wait?! Kero?! Dad! You know what this is??" Sakura and Tori asked in shock, for two totally different reasons.
"Hey I'm a guy, not a "this" Tori!" Kero argued crossing his arms.
"AHHH!!! It's knows my name!!" Tori screamed.
"Ahem, the IT has a name you know," Kero flew to Tori face. Tori stood there stunned. He was face to face with a flying stuffed animal.
"Tori, meet Kero," Sakura said hesitantly.
"Sakura...you knew that there was a flying stuffed animal living in your drawer right?" Tori asked still staring into the eyes of the beast.
"Yes..." Sakura replied quietly.
"Dad...You too???" Tori asked in shock.
"Yeah dad, you knew about Kero?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"Yes well..." Mr. Kinomoto scratched his head shyly. Kero stuck his tongue out at Tori which made him jump and then flew over to Mr. Kinomoto's shoulder. Mr. Kinomoto patted him for awhile before answering Sakura's question.
"Yes I knew about Kero," Mr. Kinomoto smiled.
"How??" Tori and Sakura asked.
"Well I was cleaning up your room when Kero popped out of the drawer," Mr. Kinomoto explained.
"So when did it come alive?" Tori asked slowly trying to pick Kero up.
"Kero was always alive," Sakura replied calmly.
"What! So it's been living with us for two years?????" Tori asked still shocked. Sakura, Mr. Kinomoto and Kero nodded.
"So what are you? What do you do?" Tori questioned holding Kero on his flat palm.
"I am the guardian beast of the seal," Kero replied proudly. The room was silent.
"Okay okay, for those who do not know anything about the Clow, I kinda protect Sakura...and I'm kinda like an advisor..." Kero scratched his head.
"You? Protect my little sister??" Tori gave him the eyebrow. "But you're so tiny!" he added trying to flick him. Kero quickly bit his finger and left it at that.
"Geez!" Tori jumped. "Okay I get you're point!" he grumbed as he watched his finger turn red.
"Well Julien - I mean Yue is more like her guardian," Kero informed.
"WHAT??? You mean Julien knows about you!" Tori fell off the bed. "Am I the last one?" he asked innocently as he crawled back onto the bed.
"Well no, Chelsea, Rita, and Nikki don't know..." Sakura tried to make him feel better. Tori did an anime fall.
"Here let me explain," Sakura sighed and began to explain about the whole "Card Captoring" ideal. Mr. Kinomoto just sat aside and patted Kero because he already knew about all this. Kero explained it all to him before.
"Wow...I feel so...so...honored..." Tori shook his head.
"What? To be my brother?" Sakura asked adoring herself.
"No, that's not it," Tori replied seriously. Sakura sweatdropped.
"Wait! So my little sister...is the Clow Mistress??" Tori asked trying to understanding something.
"Yes," Sakura replied proudly.
"Then that would make the brat..." Tori thought aloud.
"That's Master Brat to you!" Kero corrected.
"Okay okay kids, I think it's time to get ready for the party later today," Mr. Kinomoto interrupted. "Let's eat first," he suggested. Everyone nodded and began to walk out.
"You too Kero," Mr. Kinomoto smiled.
"Really??" Kero asked exctitedly.
"Yeah, I mean they all know about you Kero," Sakura shrugged. Tori nodded.
"WOOHOO!" Kero cheered and zoomed downstairs. Mr. Kinomoto laughed and followed.
"Now he's cool," Tori laughed and ran downstairs. Sakura sighed at her odd family but headed downstairs too.
__________________________________________________________________
"Now that's a little harsh don't you think Li?" Madison asked worriedly as she walked beside Li.
"Yes I know it's her birthday, but I have to tell her today," Li replied in frustration.
"I was never really good friends with Sakura, but yeah, that is a little harsh," Meilin bit her lip nervously who was on the other side of Li.
"Okay okay, you girls don't have to rub it in," Li sighed.
"We're just saying," Madison shrugged.
"Yeah I know," Li slouched his shoulders. "Hey Madison, aren't you going to tell me I told you so?" he added sarcastically.
"As much as I'd love to, it just won't make the situation any better," Madison pointed out.
"Okay I'll say it," Meilin interrupted. "She told you so,"
"Fair enough," Li rolled his eyes.
"Well you better have a really good birthday present to give her," Madison warned.
"I don't have anything to give her," Li mumbled.
"WHAT??? so basically your birthday present is your departure???" Meilin jumped in.
"No! It's just that if I give her a present then she'll probably think that it's something that is suppose to make up for my stupidity," Li explained.
"Good point," Madison agreed reluctantly.
"HUH?? Hell no..." Meilin threw her arms into the air.
"Meilin I know Sakura, she'd think that," Li nodded.
"Hey I would too," Madison said agreeing with Li's observations.
"Hmph! Japanese girls..." Meilin pouted.
"I guess all we can do tonight is stay out of your way and wish you good luck huh Li?" Madison looked up at him with fearful eyes.
"Yeah..." Li replied trying to put on a reassuring smiled.
"Well then good luck," Madison nodded as they approached Sakura's house.
"You'll need it," Meilin shook her head sadly. Li nodded and rang the doorbell. They could hear faint footsteps running towards the door. Soon the door flung wide open as the rumbling sound of loud music blew out of the house and onto the street.
"Come on in," Sakura yelled over the loud music. The trio entered the dim house that was only lit up with swirling colors of red, orange, yellow, pink, green, purple and blue. The music seemed to be shaking the floor below them. They waved happily at the familiar classmates who were dancing around the room.
"Don't worry, you'll get used to it," Sakura smiled as she danced around the room. The trio nodded and hung their spring coats near the entrance and joined the crowd of students.
"I should've known the brat would make a grand entrance," Tori crossed his arms. Sakura turned her head in Tori's direction and rolled her eyes. She didn't quite hear what he had said since the music was so loud, but knowing Tori it was bound to be something bad. The crowd of pre-teens danced happily for the next two hours. Li of course has grown into the show-off type of character and began to spin Sakura around the dance floor. Soon enough all the boys were able to imitate Li's moves and began to swirl all their partners in circles around them. Everyone laughed as they twirled around their partners. The boys moved quickly as they competed over who had the most style. The girls laughed as they ducked under and rolled over their partners. Near the end of each song Li made it a tradition to dip Sakura. She loved this part the most, it was so kawaii. When the song was over the whole gang laughed even louder and headed over to the kitchen to eat some dinner. The girls sat and talked while the boys went back to the dance floor to teach eachother new moves that they came up with.
"Wow Sakura! Your parties rock!!!" Nikki screamed and slouched onto the couch.
"Yeah! I've never had this much fun before in my life!" Rita agreed.
"I feel like I'm in that movie Dance With Me!" Chelsea added.
"What a work out," Meilin let in a deep breath.
"Uh huh, my ankles are starting to really hurt," Madison laughed and rubbed her ankles.
"Thanks you guys," Sakura scratched her head.
"Hey, where do you think the boys leanred how to do all this stuff?" Nikki inquired.
"I don't know, but I think I have an idea," Madison laughed and glanced at Sakura.
"Yeah me too," Rita laughed along.
"Who?" Chelsea gave everyone the eyebrow.
"Li of course!" Madison, Meilin and Rita laughed together. Sakura sat silently and scratched her head. All the boys turned around to the sound of Li's name.
"Did someone say my name?" Li grinned but still remained crouching.
"Yeah we were just teasing Sakura about how talented and superior her boyfriend was," Chelsea batted her eyes.
"Chelsea!" Sakura laughed pushing her friend over.
"Why thank you," Li bowed playing along with Chelsea. All the boys began to follow Li and walked on over to the table to eat.
"What did he do that's so special?" Zachary pouted and took a seat next to Madison.
"Everything that you haven't done," Meilin mumbled as the other girls giggled.
"No really...what...?" Zachary twiddled with his thumbs.
"He taught all you boys to dance!" Rita reminded.
"What??? Hey I knew how to dance!" Zachary argued.
"Yeah right," Meilin rolled her eyes.
"From where?" Madison questioned. Everyone turned their attention to Zachary and awaited an answer.
"I...I...I took lessons! Yeah! That's it! I took lessons!" Zachary shook his head.
"Yeah, from Li," Meilin teased. All the boys chuckled quietly at the poor fool.
"You're in quick sand buddy, no use in fighting it," Li patted his friend on the back.
"Then get me out," Zachary mumbled. Li stared at Zachary and gave him a "are you kidding me?" look. The group was quiet for awhile until...
"Hey I hear a party!" A familiar voice sang from Sakura's room.
"Oh No..." Madison, Meilin, Sakura, Li, and Tori shook their heads in fear.
"Save some for the KING!!!" Kero yelled happily and he zoomed into the kitchen.
"Pssshhh...the LION king..." Meilin rolled her eyes and continued to eat. Kero smiled at the group of kids and quickly picked on their food.
"Kero!" Sakura yelled trying to brush him away.
"Always knew he was trouble," Li yawned.
"Oh boy," Madison sighed and buried her head into her hands.
"What is this???" The guys questioned.
"AHHHH!!! It's a big fly!" The girls squealed. The rest of the group sweatdropped.
"Tori do something!" Sakura begged.
"Sakura what is that thing?" Nikki asked trying to calm down.
"Uhhh...." Sakura scratched her head.
"Uhh...it's...a..." Tori tried to back her up. "It's a new model for...Puppy Dog Poo-chi!!" he finally blurted out. Li quickly spat out the punch he was drinking and began to cough.
"Smooth...very slick!" Li joked between coughs.
"Quiet brat!" Tori quickly mumbled. "Well if you all don't mind I better be heading upstairs with Poo-chi here...aheheheh..." Tori smiled weakly and ran upstairs.
"ookkaayy..." Nikki and Zachary sighed and gave everyone the eyebrow. Sakura sighed in relief and quickly changed the subject.
"More dancing?" Sakura suggested and quickly stood up.
"Yeah!" Everyone cheered and heaed out towards the living room. Sakura put on some Salsa music at full blast so nobody could hear Kero.
"Let's go Sakura," Li flashed another charming smile at her as she took his hand. The made their way to the center of the floor and began to do the mambo. Soon enough every couple was on the dance floor.
"Anyone dare to do that salsa club scene from Dance with me?" Madison teased. All the guys nodded and grinned at eachother. At first everything was normal just simple back and forth dancing. Soon enough the boys began to spin the girls into their arms faster and faster until they had to duck under their arms and roll over their backs. After a few minutes of doing that the boys twirled them once more but let go of them in a counter-clockwise direction. Everyone switched partners and began to do the whole routine again. When things were getting a little tiring Tori switched it to a slow song. Everyone stuck to their partner and just began to slow dance with them.
"Man, this is more tiring than I thought," Li whispered to Sakura but still panting.
"Yeah," Sakura smiled. "But you're not going to give up yet are you?" she teased.
"Not that easily," Li grinned. Sakura laughed and rested her head under his chin. There was a moment of silence.
"I don't smell, do I?" Li asked trying to be serious. Sakura playfully whacked him on the back.
"What?" Li teased.
"No, you don't smell," Sakura laughed.
"Good," Li laughed along. Sakura slowly began to look up at him with those soft puppy eyes. There is a faint sound of the phone ringing but everyone ignored it because the music is so loud. Sakura smiled and wiped away some of Li's sweat with the sleeve of her shirt.
"Uh...thanks," Li chuckles a bit.
"I love you Li," Sakura sighed and rested her head back under his chin. "We'll be like this always right?" she asks softly but enough for him to hear her. Li tilted her chin up to look at him, with his conscience burning to tell her the truth about their future. He could hear his voice being called over and again somewhere faintly in the background but ignored it anyway.
"Sakura I..." Li began sadly about to tell her about his plans for Hong Kong until suddenly the song ends.
"LI YOU'RE MOM IS ON THE PHONE AND WANTS TO CONFIRM YOU FLIGHT HOME TOMORROW!!!" Tori yelled loudly for the 50th time. He suddenly realized that everyone is looking right at him and that the song has ended.
'Oh no...' Meilin and Madison gulped at the same time. Sakura's eyes, that moments ago were filled with hope and love, were now over flowing with tears. Everyone was speechless. Sakura wiped her eyes and tried to put on a smile.
"HaHa Tori! Almost got me there, April Fools right?" Sakura laughed weakly because she was in denial. "I'll have to get you back for that one!" she smiled. Her smiled soon faded as she stared into Li's serious eyes.
"Tori's not joking, is he Li?" Sakura asked seriously, but turned away.
"Sakura I-" Li tried to explain but Sakura ran off up to her room not wanting to hear his pathetic excuses. Li was left on the dance floor once again.
"Go after her Li," All the guests encouraged him. Li nodded with renewed courage.
"Why does this type of thing always happen on the dance floor?" Madison sighed.
"Yeah it's like that Valentine's day dance," Nikki shook her head sadly.
"Oh well at least he improved," Meilin shrugged.
"What do you mean?" Everyone asked.
"Well, he didn't take as long to go after her," Meilin reminded. Everyone sweatdropped.
_____________________________________________________________
Li stood outside Sakura's room for a few minutes, trying to figure out what to say. He could hear her whimpering. How he hated to hear or see her like this. The worst part was, it was all his fault. Li let in a deep breath and slowly opened her door. He could see Sakura crying uncontrollably into her pillow. Swallowing up all his fears Li hesitantly made his way to Sakura's bed.
"Sakura I'-" Li began quietly.
"Go away Li!! Just leave me alone!" Sakura yelled harshly.
"Sakura please, hear me out," Li begged for a chance to explain himself.
"Why should I," Sakura replied coldly and turned to face him. Her eyes were all red and watery. Her beautiful rosey face, always full of color and life, were now pale and waxy. Li was silent not knowing how to respond.
"You're right Sakura," Li sighed in defeat. "I don't have a good reason for you to forgive me, I don't know why you should even hear me out, Heck I don't even have a birthday present for you!" he lowered his head sadly.
"Then what are you doing up here?" Sakura asked firmly as she turned her head away.
"Because I would feel much better if I told you the whole story," Li replied sadly.
"Fine then," Sakura sighed. "How long have you known about your departure?" she asked very seriously. There was a moment of silence.
"Since last summer, when we caught all the cards," Li replied reluctantly.
"What??" Sakura whirled around to see his face. "Last summer??"
"Yes," Li lowered his head in shame. "Remember when I first arrived here I told you that I was going to leave as soon as all the cards were caught?" Li asked trying to come up with an excuse. Sakura was silent. "Well when we caught all the cards I called my mom and told her that my mission was over, and that I was coming home," he finished.
"Why didn't you tell me that you were leaving back then?" Sakura asked starting to get a little angry again.
"I didn't think that it mattered to you," Li explained.
"Then why didn't you tell me earlier," Sakura shook her head. Her voice sounded like she was going to collapse.
"I don't know, I was just being a coward. And I guess I was afraid of your reaction," Li replied trying to put his hand on her shoulder.
"Don't touch me Li!" Sakura moved away from him. "How did you think I was going to react!" she yelled. "Am I suppose to be okay with this??" she blurted out in total anger.
"I'm sorry Sakura," Li slowly moved his hand away from her.
"Then why did you let me fall in love with you?" Sakura asked softly trying not to cry.
"I...I...I..." Li mumbled trying to come up with a good response. But there was nothing to say. There was another moment of silence.
"Listen Sakura, I just want to say what was on my mind this past year, so please just let me explain," Li pleaded in frustration. Sakura nodded slowly.
"I have loved you for a long time, but I ignored it fearing that it would make me weak," Li began. "Soon I couldn't ignore it, but then I didn't want to do anything about it, knowing that I was leaving," he continued. "I didn't want to have to leave the one girl that I'll ever love, so that's why I didn't want to tell you how I felt about you sooner," he continued almost crying now.
"Li I-" Sakura tried to interrupt but it was no use. Li placed one finger on her lips, begging her to let him finish.
"And now that you know just how much I love you, I don't want to leave you," Li confessed letting some tears fall down his face. Sakura felt like she too was going to break down and cry.
"Sakura please I'm sorry and I love you, forgive me," Li pleaded and held her hand firmly. "I have so many things to say, but my heart is racing so fast that I can't get the words past my lips," he breathed heavily.
"But Li, I love you too much. And I don't know which answer would make me feel better. To forgive you, or to not forgive you," Sakura shook her head sadly with the teardrops flowing down her cheek. "If I forgive you then it's like I'm letting you go, but if I don't forgive you it's like I'm trying to hold on to something," she explained.
"I understand," Li nodded. He slowly let go of her hand and stood up. "I guess I should be going then," he sighed sadly and headed towards her door. Sakura sat on the bed quietly staring out the window, trying not to look at him. She didn't want to see him leave her. She wanted to keep the memories happy. It was no use. Sakura slowly turned her head to face his direction. She closed her eyes tightly, trying to be strong.
"Li wait!" Sakura blurted out just as Li grabbed the doorknob. He turned around to see Sakura standing infront of him.
"Look, it's bad enough that you are leaving, but that wasn't why I was mad at you Li. I was sad that you were leaving, but what got me mad was that you had to lie and keep it a secret," she explained. " And I'm sorry," Sakura replied softly.
"For what?" Li asked in confusion.
"For being such a pain, I should've been more understanding," Sakura sighed.
"No, no, don't apologize," Li gently place his hand on her cheek. "I should've told you sooner," he shook his head. "I've planned everything in my life, except you. I didn't plan on falling in love with you," he confessed.
"That's why I forgive you Li," Sakura replied softly placing her hand ontop of his. They stared into eachother's eyes for a few moments as they moved in closer to eachother until they were face to face. They kissed passionately for a few minutes. The kiss became more deep and passionate as Sakura slipped her arms around Li's neck and he slid his arms around her waist. After they had kissed they sat down against one of the walls. Sakura placed her head against his chest. While he rested his head ontop of hers, with his arms around her waist. They could hear eachother breathing. Oh how neither of them wanted tonight to end.
"Promise me that you'll never forget about me," Sakura asked sadly. Li looked down into her eyes.
"Never," Li whispered softly. They kissed once more before falling asleep in eachother's arms.
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Now I really hope that you liked this chapter. Not because she found out that he was leaving
but because, well you know! I just want you all to know that this is my LAST chapter. Yep you read
correctly. This is the LAST chapter. The next one is my Epilogue. A faily long epilogue if you ask
me. It's when Li's leaving...
I need to ask ALL you readers/reviewers to do me a favor. I need you ALL to vote on something
for me. Can you do that? well here is the question. I am now working on my sequel but I need a title!
now I know that only two of you people know what is happening in the sequel but I need ALL of you
to vote on a title that YOU think sounds the most appealing to you.
-Should I Love You?
-Two Weddings and a Reunion
-Why is it still you?
Do not ask where I got those titles, but yeah...just please cast in a vote telling me which one
you want to see!! I'll reveal the title in my epilogue, so cast in your votes as soon as possible.