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Should I Love You?
Chapter: Two
The First Encounter
Li walked anxiously towards Sakura's house, as Chiho tried his best to keep up. Li smiled as he passed by the various Cherry Blossom trees. It was a beautiful sight. All the buds were coming out, and all the flowers were in bloom. The air was so fresh, and it truly smelled like spring. He remembered this neighbourhood from his past years here in Tomoeda. It felt like just yesterday he was running around here on the streets or on the park racing with Sakura, Meilin, Madison and Zachary on their rollerblades. He missed the sound of the store keeper yelling at them because they rode too fast and too close to his store. Now those were the days. Perhaps he would do that all over again with Sakura...
"Li! Wait up! Slow down a bit will ya?" Chiho panted still trying to keep up the pace.
"Oh sorry, am I walking too fast?" Li asked as he turned around to take a look at him.
"You think?" Chiho rolled his eyes as he placed his hands on his knees to catch his breath.
"Well come on, we're almost there," Li laughed and continued to walk up ahead.
"Not again," Chiho whined and followed. But besides the fact that he was tired, and that Li was walking too fast for his liking, there were other things on his mind. More important things. He didn't want to break the news to Li, but he knew that nobody else would tell him either. He wasn't sure whether it was safer for him to find out on his own, or have someone else tell him. This was a very tricky situation.
"Hey there Chiho!" A familiar voice called out to him. Chiho immediately snapped out of his thoughts and turned his attention to the person walking towards him.
"Shigeru!" Chiho replied nervously. He looked up ahead at Li, but he was okay. He was leaning against a tree staring at Sakura's house which was no in sight.
"What's up Shigeru?" Chiho asked trying to make conversation.
"Nothing much, hey who's the friend?" Shigeru asked curiously.
"Uh...my new roomate, Li," Chiho replied getting even more nervous.
"Oh," Shigeru nodded. "Hey Li!" he called.
'Oh boy...' Chiho put his hand on his forhead. He was really in a rush to get over to Sakura's house.
"Huh? Yeah?" Li replied looking around.
"Come over here," Shigeru said nicely. Li walked on over to the two boys.
"Hi, I'm Li Syaoran," Li smiled and extended his hand.
"I'm Shigeru Oshiba," Shigeru nodded and shook his hand. He had a firm grasp, very solid. Shirgeru looked about his own age, and about his own height too. In fact, he looked a lot like himself. His hair was short and hung over his eyes slightly. His body tone was just as slim as his own. Except that he had blue eyes. Prussian eyes. That seemed to shine with a slight mystery, just like his when he was younger.
"Well it's a pleasure meeting you Shigeru, but I'm really in a hurry," Li admitted.
"You too Li, what's the big rush?" Shigeru gave him the eyebrow.
"I'm meeting up with an old friend," Li simply replied.
"Oh I see," Shigeru nodded. "Well I guess I'll be seeing you around,"
"Yeah, maybe," Li grinned and shook his hand good bye. There seemed to be a non-verbal understanding that there was some sort of common bond that they had. Perhaps a competition of some sort. Li has never met anyone quite like Shigeru. They were so alike physically, that maybe, just maybe he could tell that they were alike personality wise as well. They only talked for a few moments, but he could tell. It was nothing negative of course, but it was probably one of those guy things. It seems like things were going to get pretty interesting.
"Let's get going Chiho," Li smiled and continued up the sidewalk. Chiho sighed and followed along behind. When they finally reached Sakura's house Li stopped in her driveway and stared at the house for a few moments to breath and let all the memories sink in.
"Let's surprise her!" Li suggested excitedly.
"Uh Li, I think she's in for more surprises than she could ever hope for as it is," Chiho shook his head.
"What do you mean?" Li asked in confusion.
"Uh...I mean...just you being here is like...WHOA!" Chiho lied.
"Ookkaayy," Li gave him the eyebrow. "Well anyway, how about you knock and I jump out from behind you?" he suggested.
"I guess so," Chiho shrugged and was heading towards the door until someone opened the window.
"Hey! What are you guys doing here??" Tori yelled from the top window.
"Hey Tori!" Chiho waved.
"Oh hey Chiho, what's up?" Tori asked casually.
"Nothing much, is Sakura home?" Chiho asked politely.
"Yeah, hold up," Tori nodded and turned around. "Sakura!! You got some visitors!!" he yelled downstairs.
"She'll be right out," Tori informed and shut the window. Li could feel his heart racing. He was finally going to see Sakura again. They could finally start all over, and be together. This was the day he's been dreaming and waiting for. He could hear foot steps faintly from the inside. They were getting closer towards the front door. The knob turned and the door flung wide open.
"Surprise?" Chiho said without expression.
"HaHa, very funny Chiho," Sakura teased and hugged him anyway.
"No really, surprise," Chiho insisted. As they let go of their hug Sakura slowly opened her eyes. There was a tall, slim and familiar figure standing before her. He looked a little nervous, but a slight smile still appeared on his face. His dark brown hair wavered in the wind. His bangs, falling over the top of his forehead, and then over his eyes. She recognized this young man, and yet she wasn't sure. Those eyes, they were different from the boy she used to know. The boy she used to know, and love had serious, cold and mysterious amber eyes. But this young man's eyes were warm and had a twinkle of mystery in them. Despite, the difference she had no doubt in her mind that the figure standing before her was her young partner from the past. People change, that's all. But everyone in her college knows that, she has changed too...
"Sakura..." Li spoke softly. Her name ringed in her mind for a few moments. Almost forgotten memories flashed in her mind. There was something about the way Li said her name that made her tingle and weak inside. He was the only person who could make her feel that way.
"Syaoran," Sakura smiled and immediately went to hug him. Li smiled as they held their embrace for a few moments. He was glad to be back, to be home, with her.
"I missed you Sakura," Li smiled as they slowly let go of their hug.
"I missed you too Li," Sakura smiled, almost crying. Li slowly leaned in to give her a small kiss, but Sakura subtly turned her head towards the inside of the house and walked in.
"How rude of me, come on in you two!" Sakura said making up an excuse. At first Li was a little confused, but eventually shrugged the thought out of his mind and followed her inside, and Chiho reluctantly followed him. They all sat on the couch and began to talk.
"So how have you been Li?" Sakura asked trying to make conversation.
"I've been okay, just busy with the tournaments you know," Li nodded. "But I'm very very sorry that I didn't write or call for those three years. You see my instructors wouldn't let me write or talk to anyone out of the country. I felt like I was at boot camp or something, they were so strict!" he apologized. Sakura nodded and slowly lowered her head, almost in shame. Li noticed this and moved his hand to hold hers, but Sakura moved it away.
"Uh...I'll make you guys something to drink," Sakura smiled weakly and headed towards the kitchen, leaving a very lost and confused Li behind.
They had done some renovations these past few years, so they now had a door leading towards the kitchen. Sakura ran inside and gently closed the door, so she would startle or worry her guests, especially Li. She leaned against the door and slowly slid down onto the floor. There was a sharp and painful feeling throbbing in her chest. This wasn't right. Li didn't deserve any of this. He was true, and loyal to her the whole time. He even kept his promise and returned to her. If only she had kept her promise. Yes, that was the painful feeling infecting her heart. Guilt. The feeling of guilt invaded her mind and body, spreading it's evil all around her. How could she have done this? To him? Sakura quickly wiped her tears and walked towards the freezer to get a can of juice. If she didn't come back soon, Li would probably suspect that something was wrong with her. Although, with the way she was acting, she would be surprised if he already did think that there was something she was hiding. She must tell him the
truth. It would be wrong to keep it from him. Li deserves more than that. He has the right to know about, her new boyfriend...
_________________________________________________________________
"What's wrong Li?" Chiho asked worriedly. "You look down,"
"It's Sakura, she's acting all weird," Li sighed and slouched on the couch.
"Oh, I see," Chiho nodded and thought for awhile. He knew the reason why. He was torn between his new found friend, and his best friend. Sure he wanted Li to have a happy ending, but his best friend was just as much in love with Sakura as Li is. He tapped his fingers on the arm rest and finally came up with an excuse.
"Look Li, perhaps she's still a little surprised that you're here. Maybe you shouldn't hold her hand or anything for while. Maybe she needs some time to get to know you again," Chiho suggested and explination. Li thought about the idea for while and nodded.
"Yeah, I guess you're right," Li smiled slightly. At that moment Sakura came into the room with a tray with three glasses of juice. The two boys nodded and thanked her before picking up their glasses.
"Sakura, I haven't gone around Tomoeda yet, would you mind taking me around?" Li asked when he finished his drink. Sakura thought about the idea for a moment. It didn't seem unreasonable. Plus, it wouldn't be like cheating on her boyfriend or anything, it would just be like giving him a tour or something. He wouldn't be jealous at all. Plus, it would give her an opportunity to tell him the truth. Chiho looked back and forth from Sakura to Li. He was very nervous.
"Sure, I don't see why not," Sakura smiled.
"Great, when?" Li asked excitedly.
"How about...ummm..." Sakura mumbled glancing at her watch. "Now?" she finally suggested as she began to stand up.
"Now is great," Li laughed as he helped her clean up the glasses and take them back into the kitchen.
"Okay let's go," Sakura sighed nervously and headed towards the door.
"Well I don't think that you two need me around," Chiho yawned, knowing what Sakura's plan was. He followed Sakura to the door and gave her a very sad look. She nodded and turned away.
"Come on Li, let's get going," Sakura smiled weakly and opened the door.
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"This place sure hasn't changed much," Li commented as he looked around. They were sitting under a tree, where they had spent their first week anniversary. He remembered everything. He especially remembered how they danced in the rain, but Sakura used the sheild card to keep them dry.
"No, Tomoeda hasn't changed much. But the people here have," Sakura informed trying to tell him something.
"I bet. How is Meilin?" Li inquired.
"She's good," Sakura nodded.
"Has Meilin been giving you trouble while I was gone?" he joked.
"No, not at all. Sure we get into a few disputes but that's about it," Sakura shrugged. "Would you like to go see them?"
"Yeah!" Li replied happily as he stood up. Sakura smiled as Li extended his hand to help her up. Sakura slowly took his hand, but came up too quickly and fell ontop of him.
"Where have I seen this before?" Li joked.
"Li!" Sakura playfully punched his chest.
"Sorry, sorry," Li laughed and held his hands infront of his face to protect himself. "I forgot how dangerous you can get,"
"Sorry," Sakura laughed and helped him up. She quickly glanced at her watch and nodded. "Come on we better get going if we want to catch Meilin," she said brushing herself off.
"Huh?" Li asked in confusion and followed Sakura.
"Meilin teaches Martial Arts on Saturdays, if we hurry we may just catch her," Sakura insisted.
"Martial Arts huh?" Li said rubbing his chin.
"Yes, Martial Arts," Sakura nodded as she pulled him along.
"I can beat her," Li shrugged.
"I'm sure you can," Sakura rolled her eyes trying to humor him. "But if we don't hurry, we won't catch her,"
"No need to fear, Li Syaoran is here!" Li chanted and scooped Sakura off her feet.
"Li put me down!" Sakura pouted.
"Don't worry it's faster, you just lead the way," Li instructed and closed his eyes for a moment. Sakura could feel some sort of magic energy growing inside of Li. Suddenly Li opened his eyes.
"Dash!" Li yelled and then they were on their way.
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"So this is it huh?" Li asked scanning the community center.
"Yeah," Sakura sighed and guided him inside. Li could here the sound of fighting coming from every room as they walked down the hallway. They had different rooms for the seperate levels. Li smiled remembering those days, except her had private training. He was glad to see that there were many other people interested in the art.
"Here it is," Sakura smiled as they came to a slow stop. "She teaches the orange belt," she informed.
"Oh I see," Li nodded. "Well she was never good with beginners anyway," he teased and knocked on the door. The class immediately stopped and faced the door.
"Syaoran????" Meilin blinked rapidly. Li just nodded with a slight smile.
"Oh my goodness!!!" Meilin screamed as she ran towards him. But as she was running she caught a glimpse of Sakura.
"Oh, my, goodness," Meilin paused after each word, and put her hands on her waist. Sakura bit her lip nervously.
"How have you been Meilin?" Li asked happily.
"Great, great!" Meilin quickly replied after snapping out of her thoughts. "Look it's great to see you again Li, but I need a word with Sakura; would you mind watching my class for awhile?" she asked firmly.
"Uh, sure, no problem," Li replied slowly and walked to the front of the room.
"Sakura!" Meilin pushed her outside as soon as Li was away. "What's Li doing here???"
"To visit you," Sakura replied quietly.
"Not that you baka! I mean what's he doing HERE in Tomoeda!!" Meilin waved her hands in annoyance.
"He said he wanted to surprise me," Sakura replied nervously.
"Oh well then SURPRISE," Meilin said sarcastically. "Boy is he ever the one to be surprised," she shook her head.
"Yeah I know, I feel so bad Meilin, I really do," Sakura said sadly.
"Well I thought you told him already, like two months ago!" Meilin crossed her arms.
"Why are you so upset? You don't love him!" Sakura asked angrily.
"Oh and you care!?" Meilin blurted out. Sakura stood silently. She was so ashamed.
"Look Sakura, Li is and always will be my best friend. We have to look out for eachother. I'd just hate to be him right now. I mean, he's here for you, and look what you've done to him in return. You broke your promise," Meilin said shaking her head at Sakura.
"But I...but..." Sakura studdered, she was completely speechless.
"I was upset when you told me that you had a boyfriend. But then I was okay when you told me that you were going to tell Li the truth. He deserved that much," Meilin lectured. Sakura remained silent, as he let everything sink in.
"Do you still love him?" Meilin asked breaking the silence. Sakura looked up at her and thought deeply. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of laughter coming from Meilin's classroom. The two girls peeked inside to see what was going on. Li was on the floor, being ganged up on by a bunch of little kids. Li was laughing as he tried to protect himself from the army of rugrats. The children were laughing too and they tickled him until he turned blue. A slight smile appeared on Sakura face. He was so sweet. This Li was a totally different person compared to the young warrior that left her seven years ago. And yet, there was something similar too. His love for her hadn't changed a bit. Which, in itself tormented her each time she looked at him.
"Look Sakura," Meilin began turning to her. "I let Li go, making sure that he told you just how much he loved you. He kept his word. Now he's here, and you two cannot be together. Please Sakura, if you cannot keep my choices from being in vain. At least do him a favor and tell him the truth," she finished and entered the classroom. Sakura stood silently and leaned against the wall waiting for Li to return.
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"I remember this place," Li smiled taking in a deep breath.
"Me too," Sakura nodded with a slight smile letting all the memories of their first anniversary rush through her mind. Her favourite part of that date, was when they were dancing under the protection of the shield card. She loved they way Li hovered over her, with that slight smile plastered on his angelic face. With one small motion he woulld take his thumb and brush off her bang that seemed to cover her eye, and replace the gap with a soft kiss on her forehead. But those times were long gone. Things were very different now.
"It's really great to be back Sakura," Li sighed and threw a rock into the lake infront of them. There was a moment of silence as they watched the pebble skip over the surface of a few seconds.
"Well I'm glad you're back," Sakura admitted and slowly lowered her head. I mean it was okay to be happy that he was back right? I mean he was her friend...
"Okay that's it," Li finally gave in and crossed his arms.
"Oh my goodness!! What???" Sakura yelped a little startled by his sudden outburst.
"This is so lame and boring, come on!" Li shook his head and grabbed her wrist.
"Where are we going??" Sakura asked in shock.
"Where the closest fair?" Li grinned. Sakura took the hint and laughed.
"That way," Sakura pointed ahead.
"Alright, climb on my back," Li said and began to crouch. Sakura giggled and hopped on slipping her arms around his neck and legs around his waist.
"This is nice," Sakura teased into his ear.
"I bet," Li grinned and began to sprint.
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"Okay I think I'm going to puke," Sakura whined and she walked on a zig zag pattern.
"That's okay, just don't fall face first," Li said worriedly and stood by her side in case she did fall. Her fair face flushed with an odd shade of red, and her eyes were all watery.
"Uh...here!" Li yelled at the first sight of a bench. "Go ahead sit down," he motioned her to sit. "Careful, slowly,"
"I'm alright Li really. I don't need to sit down. I'm fine, really," Sakura smiled weakly.
"Fine, but let's take it down a notch," Li nodded. "Are you up for a short ferris wheel ride?" he suggested.
"Uh...yeah I think I'm okay with that," Sakura flashed a warm smile at him. "I'm too tired to walk anyway,"
"That's alright. I can take care of that," Li sighed and scooped her off her feet.
"Li put me down! People are staring," Sakura blushed in emarrassment.
"Let them look," Li rolled his eyes. When they got to the ride Li slowly put her down and helped her into the car. It was evening then, and Tomoeda looked at it's best during this time. All the lights in the building were turned on, and the stars were always shining brightly. From here you couldn't tell the diffrence between heaven and earth. If you looked straight up you could see the moon. Hmmm. The moon was full this night. Li sighed deeply in thought as he watched the moon reflect off of Sakura's emerald eyes. The lights of Tomoeda twinkled through her eyes as well. How he longed to place his hand upon her rosey cheek and place a light kiss on her light pink lips, but only found himself lost in doubt. Instead he leaned back in his seat and admired the view below.
"I feel like a child again," Sakura smiled at him, and then look back out the window. "It's so beautiful, down there,"
"Yeah it is," Li sighed still thinking about something. He could feel his heart racing as it longed to say those three words. He held himself back, but heart is stronger than mind. He hled his hands in a controlled fist and closed his eyes tightly. Little did he know, that Sakura had her own little bit wanting to come out. He bit the bullet went for it.
"I love you Sakura," Li finally blurted out. Sakura slowly turned her head to look at him. She recognized this expression. An unforgetable expression from her life seven years ago. Sakura took in a deep breath but was interrupted.
"Do you still love me?" Li asked hopefully. He didn't really suspect anything, he just wanted to be sure that there was something to hold on to.
"Li there's something I need to say first," Sakura spoke slowly. But before she could continue the door to the cart opened and they were let out. As soon as they got out they were greeted by two familiar faces.
"Li!! Sakura??" Madison screamed giving them both a hug.
"Hey whats up Li," Chiho greeted with a slight nodd.
"Nothing much, just catching up on lost time," Li shrugged.
"That's great you guys," Madison smiled weakly.
"Well it's great seeing you guys but we really better get going. I'm hungry," Sakura said pulling Li away.
"Uh, yeah sure," Li agreed and waved farewell to the couple who watched them leave with fearful eye
"So where to?" Li asked looking at the scenery totally forgetting about the incident in the ferris wheel.
"Uh, well..." Sakura bit her lip. As she looked around her eyes caught gaze of a small fishball stand.
"OoOo!" Sakura squealed and pulled Li towards the stand. "Fishballs!"
"Oh yeah, I remember those!" Li licked his lips and followed. They took their orders and began to eat happily. The sauce was a little tangy, but nothing too hot. They laughed as they took turns feeding eachother. The fishballs were on a BBQ stick, so it was much easier to eat. They laughed as ate because the sauce kept on dripping onto their clothes. When they were done Li paid the man and they headed back to Sakura's place.
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"What an evening!" Sakura sighed as they linked arms.
"Yeah, remember when we were eating but then the wind flew by making the sauce fly onto your face!!" Li laughed.
"Ha Ha Ha, that wasn't funny..." Sakura pouted and crossed her arms.
"Okay okay, how about the time when that moron walked by pushing me into my fishball just as I was leaning in to eat it!" Li reminded. Sakura grunted for awhile trying to hold her laughter in but failed and burst into short giggles.
"Yeah yeah, that was fairly amusing," Sakura agreed. Li smiled and rolled his eyes. Suddenly he punched her in the arm.
"OW!" Sakura yelled and rubbed her arms gently. "What was that all about??"
"Yellow punch buggy, no touch backs!" Li added childeshly. Sakura looked at him oddily. I was still a little hard to believe that this Li was the same boy that she learned to love seven years ago. He was just so different.
"Okay," Sakura nodded and punched him back.
"Hey that's not how it works," Li argued.
"Fine then, what are the rules," Sakura asked playing along.
"Well, when you see a yellow car or buggy you punch them once. When you see a yellow buggy you puch them twice or really really hard. But you have to call no touch-backs or else they can hit you back," Li informed proudly.
"Okay," Sakura laughed still a little surprised that he played games like that. They walked along the sidewalk silently for the last few minutes, just thinking. Sometimes Sakura would try to speak up and tell him the truth. But everytime she looked at him, she just couldn't get herself to day it. He was just to handsome, and gentle. She knew what it would do to him if she told him. He probably wouldn't talk to him anymore. She didn't want that. But she knew that he deserved to know.
"Listen Li," Sakura took in a deep breath when they reached her house.
"Yes?" Li asked looking at her straight in the eyes. Sakura stood silent as she looked into his eyes. For the first time, she realized just how much Li has changed. Sure he was much nicer, he smiled more, laughed more, and a lot cuter but there was that twinkle in his eyes. His hair remained loose hanging over his forhead and covering his eyes a little bit. But with one gentle motion he would move his head causing the bangs to brush away. His hair was so brown as the moon rays reflected onto him. His skin was fair and smooth. His lips looked a warm light shade of pink. His eyes were hypnotic, for they had a steady gaze. Li shoved his hands into his pockets awaiting an answer.
"Sakura?" Li smiled waving a hand infront of her. His smile was very charming and his teeth were so white. As he waved hi hands across her face, she could smell him. There was a certain scent he carried around, but it was undescribable. She wouldn't mind laying her head on his chest for a few moments, just to smell him. His figure was quite attractive too. Over the years he was able to built some muscle tone. He was very slim and tall. He looked very handsome in the hunter green dress shirt he was wearing. It suited him very nicely as the wind gently blew it about, forming the shape of his body. Sakura snapped out of her deep thoughts, and returned to reality.
"Uh...nothing..." Sakura replied softly, still not being able to fight the pain in her heart. "Would you like to come in?" she suggested hoping that she would be able to tell himthen.
"Uh..." Li sighed looking at his watch. "It's a bit late, maybe not," he shrugged. "But I had fun, I guess I'll see you around," he smiled and leaned in to hug her.
"Yeah me too," Sakura nodded and returned the hug. As they parted Li could smell the cherry blossom purfume around her neck. Oh how he wished he could go right ahead and place a soft kiss on that spot. But he thought better of it, and held himself back once again. He sighed and stared into her warm emerald eyes and fell into a spell. His heart urged him to kiss her, as he looked onto her light pink lips. But he caught glance of her worried expression and pushed the thought away. He tried to walk but found his feet unwilling to move. Then suddenly, while he was blinking he could feel her lips press against his. Li welcomed this and kissed her back wrapping his arms around her waist. He could feel her arms making their way around his neck and sliding up the back of his head. Her fingers ran through the tiny hairs on his head. He pulled her in closer as the kiss became more intense, and slid his hands slowly up her back. When they finally parted Sakura had watery eyes. Her whole body felt full of guilt. But her heart couldn't control itself anymore. Li could feel his heart beating vigerously. They stood silently and motionless for a few seconds and finally bid eachother farewell. Sakura watched Li walked down the dim street before walking into her house. When she closed the door she slowly slid down and buried her face in her hands and began to weep softly.
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I'm very very sorry that it took me sooo long to post this chapter up. I've just been really
busy lately, but even when I did have time my writers block had the best of me. But I honesly
hope that you enjoyed this chapter. Despite that fact that it was a little sad, and how the turn
of events are a very weird. But yes, i hope that you all enjoyed it.
Should I Love You?
Chapter: Two
The First Encounter
Li walked anxiously towards Sakura's house, as Chiho tried his best to keep up. Li smiled as he passed by the various Cherry Blossom trees. It was a beautiful sight. All the buds were coming out, and all the flowers were in bloom. The air was so fresh, and it truly smelled like spring. He remembered this neighbourhood from his past years here in Tomoeda. It felt like just yesterday he was running around here on the streets or on the park racing with Sakura, Meilin, Madison and Zachary on their rollerblades. He missed the sound of the store keeper yelling at them because they rode too fast and too close to his store. Now those were the days. Perhaps he would do that all over again with Sakura...
"Li! Wait up! Slow down a bit will ya?" Chiho panted still trying to keep up the pace.
"Oh sorry, am I walking too fast?" Li asked as he turned around to take a look at him.
"You think?" Chiho rolled his eyes as he placed his hands on his knees to catch his breath.
"Well come on, we're almost there," Li laughed and continued to walk up ahead.
"Not again," Chiho whined and followed. But besides the fact that he was tired, and that Li was walking too fast for his liking, there were other things on his mind. More important things. He didn't want to break the news to Li, but he knew that nobody else would tell him either. He wasn't sure whether it was safer for him to find out on his own, or have someone else tell him. This was a very tricky situation.
"Hey there Chiho!" A familiar voice called out to him. Chiho immediately snapped out of his thoughts and turned his attention to the person walking towards him.
"Shigeru!" Chiho replied nervously. He looked up ahead at Li, but he was okay. He was leaning against a tree staring at Sakura's house which was no in sight.
"What's up Shigeru?" Chiho asked trying to make conversation.
"Nothing much, hey who's the friend?" Shigeru asked curiously.
"Uh...my new roomate, Li," Chiho replied getting even more nervous.
"Oh," Shigeru nodded. "Hey Li!" he called.
'Oh boy...' Chiho put his hand on his forhead. He was really in a rush to get over to Sakura's house.
"Huh? Yeah?" Li replied looking around.
"Come over here," Shigeru said nicely. Li walked on over to the two boys.
"Hi, I'm Li Syaoran," Li smiled and extended his hand.
"I'm Shigeru Oshiba," Shigeru nodded and shook his hand. He had a firm grasp, very solid. Shirgeru looked about his own age, and about his own height too. In fact, he looked a lot like himself. His hair was short and hung over his eyes slightly. His body tone was just as slim as his own. Except that he had blue eyes. Prussian eyes. That seemed to shine with a slight mystery, just like his when he was younger.
"Well it's a pleasure meeting you Shigeru, but I'm really in a hurry," Li admitted.
"You too Li, what's the big rush?" Shigeru gave him the eyebrow.
"I'm meeting up with an old friend," Li simply replied.
"Oh I see," Shigeru nodded. "Well I guess I'll be seeing you around,"
"Yeah, maybe," Li grinned and shook his hand good bye. There seemed to be a non-verbal understanding that there was some sort of common bond that they had. Perhaps a competition of some sort. Li has never met anyone quite like Shigeru. They were so alike physically, that maybe, just maybe he could tell that they were alike personality wise as well. They only talked for a few moments, but he could tell. It was nothing negative of course, but it was probably one of those guy things. It seems like things were going to get pretty interesting.
"Let's get going Chiho," Li smiled and continued up the sidewalk. Chiho sighed and followed along behind. When they finally reached Sakura's house Li stopped in her driveway and stared at the house for a few moments to breath and let all the memories sink in.
"Let's surprise her!" Li suggested excitedly.
"Uh Li, I think she's in for more surprises than she could ever hope for as it is," Chiho shook his head.
"What do you mean?" Li asked in confusion.
"Uh...I mean...just you being here is like...WHOA!" Chiho lied.
"Ookkaayy," Li gave him the eyebrow. "Well anyway, how about you knock and I jump out from behind you?" he suggested.
"I guess so," Chiho shrugged and was heading towards the door until someone opened the window.
"Hey! What are you guys doing here??" Tori yelled from the top window.
"Hey Tori!" Chiho waved.
"Oh hey Chiho, what's up?" Tori asked casually.
"Nothing much, is Sakura home?" Chiho asked politely.
"Yeah, hold up," Tori nodded and turned around. "Sakura!! You got some visitors!!" he yelled downstairs.
"She'll be right out," Tori informed and shut the window. Li could feel his heart racing. He was finally going to see Sakura again. They could finally start all over, and be together. This was the day he's been dreaming and waiting for. He could hear foot steps faintly from the inside. They were getting closer towards the front door. The knob turned and the door flung wide open.
"Surprise?" Chiho said without expression.
"HaHa, very funny Chiho," Sakura teased and hugged him anyway.
"No really, surprise," Chiho insisted. As they let go of their hug Sakura slowly opened her eyes. There was a tall, slim and familiar figure standing before her. He looked a little nervous, but a slight smile still appeared on his face. His dark brown hair wavered in the wind. His bangs, falling over the top of his forehead, and then over his eyes. She recognized this young man, and yet she wasn't sure. Those eyes, they were different from the boy she used to know. The boy she used to know, and love had serious, cold and mysterious amber eyes. But this young man's eyes were warm and had a twinkle of mystery in them. Despite, the difference she had no doubt in her mind that the figure standing before her was her young partner from the past. People change, that's all. But everyone in her college knows that, she has changed too...
"Sakura..." Li spoke softly. Her name ringed in her mind for a few moments. Almost forgotten memories flashed in her mind. There was something about the way Li said her name that made her tingle and weak inside. He was the only person who could make her feel that way.
"Syaoran," Sakura smiled and immediately went to hug him. Li smiled as they held their embrace for a few moments. He was glad to be back, to be home, with her.
"I missed you Sakura," Li smiled as they slowly let go of their hug.
"I missed you too Li," Sakura smiled, almost crying. Li slowly leaned in to give her a small kiss, but Sakura subtly turned her head towards the inside of the house and walked in.
"How rude of me, come on in you two!" Sakura said making up an excuse. At first Li was a little confused, but eventually shrugged the thought out of his mind and followed her inside, and Chiho reluctantly followed him. They all sat on the couch and began to talk.
"So how have you been Li?" Sakura asked trying to make conversation.
"I've been okay, just busy with the tournaments you know," Li nodded. "But I'm very very sorry that I didn't write or call for those three years. You see my instructors wouldn't let me write or talk to anyone out of the country. I felt like I was at boot camp or something, they were so strict!" he apologized. Sakura nodded and slowly lowered her head, almost in shame. Li noticed this and moved his hand to hold hers, but Sakura moved it away.
"Uh...I'll make you guys something to drink," Sakura smiled weakly and headed towards the kitchen, leaving a very lost and confused Li behind.
They had done some renovations these past few years, so they now had a door leading towards the kitchen. Sakura ran inside and gently closed the door, so she would startle or worry her guests, especially Li. She leaned against the door and slowly slid down onto the floor. There was a sharp and painful feeling throbbing in her chest. This wasn't right. Li didn't deserve any of this. He was true, and loyal to her the whole time. He even kept his promise and returned to her. If only she had kept her promise. Yes, that was the painful feeling infecting her heart. Guilt. The feeling of guilt invaded her mind and body, spreading it's evil all around her. How could she have done this? To him? Sakura quickly wiped her tears and walked towards the freezer to get a can of juice. If she didn't come back soon, Li would probably suspect that something was wrong with her. Although, with the way she was acting, she would be surprised if he already did think that there was something she was hiding. She must tell him the
truth. It would be wrong to keep it from him. Li deserves more than that. He has the right to know about, her new boyfriend...
_________________________________________________________________
"What's wrong Li?" Chiho asked worriedly. "You look down,"
"It's Sakura, she's acting all weird," Li sighed and slouched on the couch.
"Oh, I see," Chiho nodded and thought for awhile. He knew the reason why. He was torn between his new found friend, and his best friend. Sure he wanted Li to have a happy ending, but his best friend was just as much in love with Sakura as Li is. He tapped his fingers on the arm rest and finally came up with an excuse.
"Look Li, perhaps she's still a little surprised that you're here. Maybe you shouldn't hold her hand or anything for while. Maybe she needs some time to get to know you again," Chiho suggested and explination. Li thought about the idea for while and nodded.
"Yeah, I guess you're right," Li smiled slightly. At that moment Sakura came into the room with a tray with three glasses of juice. The two boys nodded and thanked her before picking up their glasses.
"Sakura, I haven't gone around Tomoeda yet, would you mind taking me around?" Li asked when he finished his drink. Sakura thought about the idea for a moment. It didn't seem unreasonable. Plus, it wouldn't be like cheating on her boyfriend or anything, it would just be like giving him a tour or something. He wouldn't be jealous at all. Plus, it would give her an opportunity to tell him the truth. Chiho looked back and forth from Sakura to Li. He was very nervous.
"Sure, I don't see why not," Sakura smiled.
"Great, when?" Li asked excitedly.
"How about...ummm..." Sakura mumbled glancing at her watch. "Now?" she finally suggested as she began to stand up.
"Now is great," Li laughed as he helped her clean up the glasses and take them back into the kitchen.
"Okay let's go," Sakura sighed nervously and headed towards the door.
"Well I don't think that you two need me around," Chiho yawned, knowing what Sakura's plan was. He followed Sakura to the door and gave her a very sad look. She nodded and turned away.
"Come on Li, let's get going," Sakura smiled weakly and opened the door.
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"This place sure hasn't changed much," Li commented as he looked around. They were sitting under a tree, where they had spent their first week anniversary. He remembered everything. He especially remembered how they danced in the rain, but Sakura used the sheild card to keep them dry.
"No, Tomoeda hasn't changed much. But the people here have," Sakura informed trying to tell him something.
"I bet. How is Meilin?" Li inquired.
"She's good," Sakura nodded.
"Has Meilin been giving you trouble while I was gone?" he joked.
"No, not at all. Sure we get into a few disputes but that's about it," Sakura shrugged. "Would you like to go see them?"
"Yeah!" Li replied happily as he stood up. Sakura smiled as Li extended his hand to help her up. Sakura slowly took his hand, but came up too quickly and fell ontop of him.
"Where have I seen this before?" Li joked.
"Li!" Sakura playfully punched his chest.
"Sorry, sorry," Li laughed and held his hands infront of his face to protect himself. "I forgot how dangerous you can get,"
"Sorry," Sakura laughed and helped him up. She quickly glanced at her watch and nodded. "Come on we better get going if we want to catch Meilin," she said brushing herself off.
"Huh?" Li asked in confusion and followed Sakura.
"Meilin teaches Martial Arts on Saturdays, if we hurry we may just catch her," Sakura insisted.
"Martial Arts huh?" Li said rubbing his chin.
"Yes, Martial Arts," Sakura nodded as she pulled him along.
"I can beat her," Li shrugged.
"I'm sure you can," Sakura rolled her eyes trying to humor him. "But if we don't hurry, we won't catch her,"
"No need to fear, Li Syaoran is here!" Li chanted and scooped Sakura off her feet.
"Li put me down!" Sakura pouted.
"Don't worry it's faster, you just lead the way," Li instructed and closed his eyes for a moment. Sakura could feel some sort of magic energy growing inside of Li. Suddenly Li opened his eyes.
"Dash!" Li yelled and then they were on their way.
__________________________________________________________________
"So this is it huh?" Li asked scanning the community center.
"Yeah," Sakura sighed and guided him inside. Li could here the sound of fighting coming from every room as they walked down the hallway. They had different rooms for the seperate levels. Li smiled remembering those days, except her had private training. He was glad to see that there were many other people interested in the art.
"Here it is," Sakura smiled as they came to a slow stop. "She teaches the orange belt," she informed.
"Oh I see," Li nodded. "Well she was never good with beginners anyway," he teased and knocked on the door. The class immediately stopped and faced the door.
"Syaoran????" Meilin blinked rapidly. Li just nodded with a slight smile.
"Oh my goodness!!!" Meilin screamed as she ran towards him. But as she was running she caught a glimpse of Sakura.
"Oh, my, goodness," Meilin paused after each word, and put her hands on her waist. Sakura bit her lip nervously.
"How have you been Meilin?" Li asked happily.
"Great, great!" Meilin quickly replied after snapping out of her thoughts. "Look it's great to see you again Li, but I need a word with Sakura; would you mind watching my class for awhile?" she asked firmly.
"Uh, sure, no problem," Li replied slowly and walked to the front of the room.
"Sakura!" Meilin pushed her outside as soon as Li was away. "What's Li doing here???"
"To visit you," Sakura replied quietly.
"Not that you baka! I mean what's he doing HERE in Tomoeda!!" Meilin waved her hands in annoyance.
"He said he wanted to surprise me," Sakura replied nervously.
"Oh well then SURPRISE," Meilin said sarcastically. "Boy is he ever the one to be surprised," she shook her head.
"Yeah I know, I feel so bad Meilin, I really do," Sakura said sadly.
"Well I thought you told him already, like two months ago!" Meilin crossed her arms.
"Why are you so upset? You don't love him!" Sakura asked angrily.
"Oh and you care!?" Meilin blurted out. Sakura stood silently. She was so ashamed.
"Look Sakura, Li is and always will be my best friend. We have to look out for eachother. I'd just hate to be him right now. I mean, he's here for you, and look what you've done to him in return. You broke your promise," Meilin said shaking her head at Sakura.
"But I...but..." Sakura studdered, she was completely speechless.
"I was upset when you told me that you had a boyfriend. But then I was okay when you told me that you were going to tell Li the truth. He deserved that much," Meilin lectured. Sakura remained silent, as he let everything sink in.
"Do you still love him?" Meilin asked breaking the silence. Sakura looked up at her and thought deeply. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of laughter coming from Meilin's classroom. The two girls peeked inside to see what was going on. Li was on the floor, being ganged up on by a bunch of little kids. Li was laughing as he tried to protect himself from the army of rugrats. The children were laughing too and they tickled him until he turned blue. A slight smile appeared on Sakura face. He was so sweet. This Li was a totally different person compared to the young warrior that left her seven years ago. And yet, there was something similar too. His love for her hadn't changed a bit. Which, in itself tormented her each time she looked at him.
"Look Sakura," Meilin began turning to her. "I let Li go, making sure that he told you just how much he loved you. He kept his word. Now he's here, and you two cannot be together. Please Sakura, if you cannot keep my choices from being in vain. At least do him a favor and tell him the truth," she finished and entered the classroom. Sakura stood silently and leaned against the wall waiting for Li to return.
__________________________________________________________________
"I remember this place," Li smiled taking in a deep breath.
"Me too," Sakura nodded with a slight smile letting all the memories of their first anniversary rush through her mind. Her favourite part of that date, was when they were dancing under the protection of the shield card. She loved they way Li hovered over her, with that slight smile plastered on his angelic face. With one small motion he woulld take his thumb and brush off her bang that seemed to cover her eye, and replace the gap with a soft kiss on her forehead. But those times were long gone. Things were very different now.
"It's really great to be back Sakura," Li sighed and threw a rock into the lake infront of them. There was a moment of silence as they watched the pebble skip over the surface of a few seconds.
"Well I'm glad you're back," Sakura admitted and slowly lowered her head. I mean it was okay to be happy that he was back right? I mean he was her friend...
"Okay that's it," Li finally gave in and crossed his arms.
"Oh my goodness!! What???" Sakura yelped a little startled by his sudden outburst.
"This is so lame and boring, come on!" Li shook his head and grabbed her wrist.
"Where are we going??" Sakura asked in shock.
"Where the closest fair?" Li grinned. Sakura took the hint and laughed.
"That way," Sakura pointed ahead.
"Alright, climb on my back," Li said and began to crouch. Sakura giggled and hopped on slipping her arms around his neck and legs around his waist.
"This is nice," Sakura teased into his ear.
"I bet," Li grinned and began to sprint.
___________________________________________________________________
"Okay I think I'm going to puke," Sakura whined and she walked on a zig zag pattern.
"That's okay, just don't fall face first," Li said worriedly and stood by her side in case she did fall. Her fair face flushed with an odd shade of red, and her eyes were all watery.
"Uh...here!" Li yelled at the first sight of a bench. "Go ahead sit down," he motioned her to sit. "Careful, slowly,"
"I'm alright Li really. I don't need to sit down. I'm fine, really," Sakura smiled weakly.
"Fine, but let's take it down a notch," Li nodded. "Are you up for a short ferris wheel ride?" he suggested.
"Uh...yeah I think I'm okay with that," Sakura flashed a warm smile at him. "I'm too tired to walk anyway,"
"That's alright. I can take care of that," Li sighed and scooped her off her feet.
"Li put me down! People are staring," Sakura blushed in emarrassment.
"Let them look," Li rolled his eyes. When they got to the ride Li slowly put her down and helped her into the car. It was evening then, and Tomoeda looked at it's best during this time. All the lights in the building were turned on, and the stars were always shining brightly. From here you couldn't tell the diffrence between heaven and earth. If you looked straight up you could see the moon. Hmmm. The moon was full this night. Li sighed deeply in thought as he watched the moon reflect off of Sakura's emerald eyes. The lights of Tomoeda twinkled through her eyes as well. How he longed to place his hand upon her rosey cheek and place a light kiss on her light pink lips, but only found himself lost in doubt. Instead he leaned back in his seat and admired the view below.
"I feel like a child again," Sakura smiled at him, and then look back out the window. "It's so beautiful, down there,"
"Yeah it is," Li sighed still thinking about something. He could feel his heart racing as it longed to say those three words. He held himself back, but heart is stronger than mind. He hled his hands in a controlled fist and closed his eyes tightly. Little did he know, that Sakura had her own little bit wanting to come out. He bit the bullet went for it.
"I love you Sakura," Li finally blurted out. Sakura slowly turned her head to look at him. She recognized this expression. An unforgetable expression from her life seven years ago. Sakura took in a deep breath but was interrupted.
"Do you still love me?" Li asked hopefully. He didn't really suspect anything, he just wanted to be sure that there was something to hold on to.
"Li there's something I need to say first," Sakura spoke slowly. But before she could continue the door to the cart opened and they were let out. As soon as they got out they were greeted by two familiar faces.
"Li!! Sakura??" Madison screamed giving them both a hug.
"Hey whats up Li," Chiho greeted with a slight nodd.
"Nothing much, just catching up on lost time," Li shrugged.
"That's great you guys," Madison smiled weakly.
"Well it's great seeing you guys but we really better get going. I'm hungry," Sakura said pulling Li away.
"Uh, yeah sure," Li agreed and waved farewell to the couple who watched them leave with fearful eye
"So where to?" Li asked looking at the scenery totally forgetting about the incident in the ferris wheel.
"Uh, well..." Sakura bit her lip. As she looked around her eyes caught gaze of a small fishball stand.
"OoOo!" Sakura squealed and pulled Li towards the stand. "Fishballs!"
"Oh yeah, I remember those!" Li licked his lips and followed. They took their orders and began to eat happily. The sauce was a little tangy, but nothing too hot. They laughed as they took turns feeding eachother. The fishballs were on a BBQ stick, so it was much easier to eat. They laughed as ate because the sauce kept on dripping onto their clothes. When they were done Li paid the man and they headed back to Sakura's place.
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"What an evening!" Sakura sighed as they linked arms.
"Yeah, remember when we were eating but then the wind flew by making the sauce fly onto your face!!" Li laughed.
"Ha Ha Ha, that wasn't funny..." Sakura pouted and crossed her arms.
"Okay okay, how about the time when that moron walked by pushing me into my fishball just as I was leaning in to eat it!" Li reminded. Sakura grunted for awhile trying to hold her laughter in but failed and burst into short giggles.
"Yeah yeah, that was fairly amusing," Sakura agreed. Li smiled and rolled his eyes. Suddenly he punched her in the arm.
"OW!" Sakura yelled and rubbed her arms gently. "What was that all about??"
"Yellow punch buggy, no touch backs!" Li added childeshly. Sakura looked at him oddily. I was still a little hard to believe that this Li was the same boy that she learned to love seven years ago. He was just so different.
"Okay," Sakura nodded and punched him back.
"Hey that's not how it works," Li argued.
"Fine then, what are the rules," Sakura asked playing along.
"Well, when you see a yellow car or buggy you punch them once. When you see a yellow buggy you puch them twice or really really hard. But you have to call no touch-backs or else they can hit you back," Li informed proudly.
"Okay," Sakura laughed still a little surprised that he played games like that. They walked along the sidewalk silently for the last few minutes, just thinking. Sometimes Sakura would try to speak up and tell him the truth. But everytime she looked at him, she just couldn't get herself to day it. He was just to handsome, and gentle. She knew what it would do to him if she told him. He probably wouldn't talk to him anymore. She didn't want that. But she knew that he deserved to know.
"Listen Li," Sakura took in a deep breath when they reached her house.
"Yes?" Li asked looking at her straight in the eyes. Sakura stood silent as she looked into his eyes. For the first time, she realized just how much Li has changed. Sure he was much nicer, he smiled more, laughed more, and a lot cuter but there was that twinkle in his eyes. His hair remained loose hanging over his forhead and covering his eyes a little bit. But with one gentle motion he would move his head causing the bangs to brush away. His hair was so brown as the moon rays reflected onto him. His skin was fair and smooth. His lips looked a warm light shade of pink. His eyes were hypnotic, for they had a steady gaze. Li shoved his hands into his pockets awaiting an answer.
"Sakura?" Li smiled waving a hand infront of her. His smile was very charming and his teeth were so white. As he waved hi hands across her face, she could smell him. There was a certain scent he carried around, but it was undescribable. She wouldn't mind laying her head on his chest for a few moments, just to smell him. His figure was quite attractive too. Over the years he was able to built some muscle tone. He was very slim and tall. He looked very handsome in the hunter green dress shirt he was wearing. It suited him very nicely as the wind gently blew it about, forming the shape of his body. Sakura snapped out of her deep thoughts, and returned to reality.
"Uh...nothing..." Sakura replied softly, still not being able to fight the pain in her heart. "Would you like to come in?" she suggested hoping that she would be able to tell himthen.
"Uh..." Li sighed looking at his watch. "It's a bit late, maybe not," he shrugged. "But I had fun, I guess I'll see you around," he smiled and leaned in to hug her.
"Yeah me too," Sakura nodded and returned the hug. As they parted Li could smell the cherry blossom purfume around her neck. Oh how he wished he could go right ahead and place a soft kiss on that spot. But he thought better of it, and held himself back once again. He sighed and stared into her warm emerald eyes and fell into a spell. His heart urged him to kiss her, as he looked onto her light pink lips. But he caught glance of her worried expression and pushed the thought away. He tried to walk but found his feet unwilling to move. Then suddenly, while he was blinking he could feel her lips press against his. Li welcomed this and kissed her back wrapping his arms around her waist. He could feel her arms making their way around his neck and sliding up the back of his head. Her fingers ran through the tiny hairs on his head. He pulled her in closer as the kiss became more intense, and slid his hands slowly up her back. When they finally parted Sakura had watery eyes. Her whole body felt full of guilt. But her heart couldn't control itself anymore. Li could feel his heart beating vigerously. They stood silently and motionless for a few seconds and finally bid eachother farewell. Sakura watched Li walked down the dim street before walking into her house. When she closed the door she slowly slid down and buried her face in her hands and began to weep softly.
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I'm very very sorry that it took me sooo long to post this chapter up. I've just been really
busy lately, but even when I did have time my writers block had the best of me. But I honesly
hope that you enjoyed this chapter. Despite that fact that it was a little sad, and how the turn
of events are a very weird. But yes, i hope that you all enjoyed it.
