Disclaimer: I do not own Card Captor Sakura.
A/n: I'm glad whomever that read this story actually like it. I'm supplying tissue papers for whoever that needs them. *Passes them out* If the last chapter did get to you a bit, you might want to prepare for this one. After this story, I'm writing another one of them sappy ExT sad fic. If you like this one, you will like the next one that I'm writing. The fic is going to be called 'Fly me to Polaris'. So, do watch out for that one.
P/s: Just to let you know, there are random points where it is written thoughts #. These little points are bits and pieces of what the character thinks. I hope you get it. I thought it was pretty random to put it there.
*Continuation*
Sapphire....
Amethyst....
Heavens touch of a delicate fire.....
Hells touch for a soft sensual mist.....
*Thoughts 1: I cannot fall in love with the girl but I already am in love with her. I stand by my promise to her and I shall obey her wishes -Eriol Hiragizawa*
He sat by her side, observing her sleeping figure. The rise and fall of her chest was steady in rhythm. He held her hand and kissed her palm, feeling her extremely weak pulse. It had been 3 weeks since she had fallen into a deep sleep of coma.
Every night for the past 3 weeks, Eriol had been by her side. He watched his sleeping beauty. It was easier for him because Sonomi Daidouji have transferred Tomoyo from the hospital to the comfort of the Daidouji mansion. She wanted her daughter home and she had allowed Eriol to stay by her daughter's side.
Sonomi had watched the navy blue haired boy that stayed by her daughter's side. She noticed the emotions and concern that he had for Tomoyo. For some reason, she saw Fujitaka's personality in the young boy. The boy did look the way Fujitaka did when Nadeshiko was sick. Both males had the same look of love in their eyes. It was an unmistakable look.
*Thoughts 2: His eyes seem so full of love and concern. They looked like Fujitaka's eyes when Nadeshiko was diagnosed with the illness. Both so filled with love and hope. -Sonomi Daidouji*
During that period of time, Sonomi had decided to announce Tomoyo's condition. She felt guilty because she was breaking her promise to her own daughter but having to cope with the heartbreak alone was making it harder than it already was. The fact that Tomoyo had no more than 2 months to live was beyond sadness and grief.
When Sonomi told Eriol her decision, he agreed and shared her grief. He even went to the length of hugging the woman just to offer her a sense of comfort. That night, Sonomi broke down and cried for her daughter. Eriol had become her confidant for that one night.
Eriol understood how Sonomi felt, after all; it must have been hard for her to accept the fact that her one and only daughter were going to die before her. She had to put up a strong upfront but it was time for it to break. That trait was familiar in both Daidouji females.
The night after that, Sonomi called Fujitaka and told him the news. The reaction from the other side of the line was instant grief. Fujitaka had announced it to his family and the news were not taken that well.
About 25 minutes later, the Kinomoto family reached the Daidouji mansion. When Sonomi saw Fujitaka, she just broke down and cried. Fujitaka held her in his arms and comforted her. Sakura and Touya didn't look very stabile either. Yukito was there as well because he had been with the Kinomoto family at that time.
The maid took Sakura, Touya and Yukito to Tomoyo's room. They went in and were greeted by the sight of Eriol Hiragizawa holding Tomoyo's hand. At the sense of the reincarnate of the old Clow Master, Ceroberus and Yue emerged to their real forms. They bowed in front of Eriol.
*Thoughts 3: Tomoyo-chan, my best friend and my sister, I wish you did not have to go through this. You do not deserve this cruelty. You deserve so much more. -Sakura Kinomoto*
Tears formed and streamed down Sakura's cheeks. She went to Tomoyo's side and started crying. Touya comforted his sister by hugging her. It was a devastating sight. Sakura looked at her best friend's sleeping form and broke down into a million pieces. The sight of her close friend in the edge of death as it consumed her brought the sense of loss. Sakura cried in her brother's arms.
Ceroberus and Yue knelt in front of Eriol as they sensed despair in their reincarnated master. Then, Spinel Sun and Ruby Moon appeared into the room. They all sensed despair in their master and they also sense him weakening. Eriol was practically as pale as Tomoyo.
"Master, how is Tomoyo-sama doing?" Spinel Sun asked.
"Not so well, Spinel Sun", Eriol answered.
"Can't you use magic or something to heal her?" Touya asked.
"Magic cannot stop the inevitable. It is wrong to use magic to stop what is fated for Tomoyo-sama", Yue said.
It was true what Yue had said. Magic cannot stop the inevitable. It would be wrong and it would probably cause more harm to her and it would jeopardize her health even more. To Eriol, doing the wrong thing for the right reasons is still the wrong thing.
"Eriol-kun, isn't there something that you can do to help her?" Sakura asked.
"I can only do one thing for her. I can only be her friend and follow her wishes", Eriol said, softly.
Sakura broke down in hysterics. Nakuru broke down as well. Touya held his sister as she wept tears of grief for her best friend. Spinel Sun patted Nakuru's back with his paw. That night, every barrier broke and they all wept in sadness, fear and frustration.
~*~
Another week almost passed by but Tomoyo had finally gained consciousness. Her eyes fluttered open and her vision was focused on the person who was next to her, holding her hand. She was greeted with the sight of her navy blue knight asleep and yet, still holding her hand.
She smiled at the sight that he was here and in some parts of her heart, she felt a bit sadder. She had to admit that she had fallen in love with him but she just simply could not accept him. It was beyond her reach and it was beyond her rules. She had vowed not to fall in love with him during this time of crisis.
Her eyes fell to his hand, which was holding hers. She felt touched by his kindness. She felt rather sickened by his sympathy but she knew that there was more to it than just blind empathies. He had love for her and that love will bring attachments. Attachments, by far is not what she wanted at the moment.
*Thoughts 4: Eriol-kun, why do you put yourself in such a position for me? Do you know what you are making me feel? Do you know that you'll only hurt me and yourself in the process? -Tomoyo Daidouji*
She slipped her hand out of his hand and touched his face. He looked tired and miserable as if he had not eaten for days. A pang of worry crept from inside her heart. She continued tracing his face with her fingers. He stirred and his eyes snapped open. The moment his vision cleared, he smiled at her.
"I'm glad to see that you are finally awake", Eriol said.
"Have you been here for a long time?" she asked, mouth dry.
Eriol stood up and went to her dresser where there was a jug of water and two glasses. He poured some water into the glass and brought it to Tomoyo. She thanked him before taking long gulps of the water.
"I've been here for almost 4 weeks", he said.
Tomoyo put down the glass on her side table. She looked up at Eriol. He seemed so tired and just so miserable and yet, he kept that marvelous smile of his plastered on his face. Somehow, it brought comfort to her.
He charmed her by his smile and his choice of words. They usually brought a deep sense of security to her. It was something very assuring that he had offered to her and she knew that she couldn't resist it. Eriol was simply a charmer. She liked that part of him.
"Eriol-kun", Tomoyo called out.
He looked at her, waiting for her to speak.
"Yes?" Eriol asked.
She looked down at her fingers and started to fidget with them as she tried to mutter her gratitude towards him.
"Thank you", she said.
He smiled at her, shaking his head. That was enough to make her smile. Then, he gave her a hug. The gesture surprised her and comforted her at the same time. It was as if he was giving her a whole new reason to fight for her life.
~*~
A few days later, Tomoyo settled to rest in her room. She managed to pick up a piece of paper and a pencil to start sketching. She managed to sketch out Eriol. The pencil linings featured his trademark smile and his perfectly shaped face.
In return, Eriol sketched her. It was a pretty funny sight as they were both sketching each other in her room. He got all of her features perfectly down to scale. Every pencil stroke brought the sketch to life. Every single touch of his sketch was set down to perfection.
When they were both done, they showed it to each other. She blushed. She took a good look at it and noticed the strokes of perfection. He noticed hers as well. They both begin to blush. Then, she smiled and kissed his cheek, leaving a slight tinge of red on his cheek where she had kissed him.
That day, they were both a bit content into what they were doing. After doing the sketches, Eriol had offered to take her out for a walk if she wanted to. Of course, she did not decline. He took her to Penguin Park, a place where she had not been to for a very long time ever since secondary school started.
There, the two walked and talked at the same time. They shared a bit of every single detail thoughts that they could think of. Eriol had also told her that Sakura and the other knows about her condition. At that time, Tomoyo's face fell but Eriol had assured her that her mother had done it out of concern.
*Thoughts 5: You protect yourself from what is to come. You will only suffer in the end with the other people that love you despite your efforts to protect them from being hurt. You will only hurt them and yourself even more. -Eriol Hiragizawa*
They stopped at the swings where many events have taken place there before. Many Clow Cards were captured here. Many tears have been wept here and many joys have taken place here as well. Tomoyo sat on one of the swings and began to push herself forward, letting the feeling of wind in her face. Eriol sat on the one next to her.
"Tomoyo-san", Eriol started.
"Yes, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said.
"I would like to take you to the city tomorrow along with Sakura and Syaoran", Eriol said.
"You would like to take me?" Tomoyo asked.
"Yes, I would like to take you", Eriol said.
"Sakura and Syaoran as well?" Tomoyo asked.
"I honestly think that it is time that you and Sakura get over this little discovery thing", Eriol said.
"It's not as easy as you say it is, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said, still swinging.
"You have got to face her, sooner or later." Eriol said.
Tomoyo looked at Eriol and he smiled at her. She nodded her head in agreement. It was going to be hard. To have kept all those secrets away and to tell it to the person that she had kept it from was going to be a hard task.
Just when the sky was getting dark, they head back to the Daidouji mansion. They took a long stroll, using the long ways and cutting through several different paths. Then, out of surprise, they bumped into Sakura and Syaoran, who were walking hand in hand. It was a rather awkward moment. Sakura's eyes widened at the sight of Tomoyo. Tomoyo looked at the ground and practically hid behind Eriol.
In a split second, Sakura ran towards Tomoyo and hugged the girl. Being Sakura, tears fell easily. It was the tears of joy that Tomoyo was all right. She was just so glad that Tomoyo was fine. Tomoyo hugged her friend back. She was glad that Sakura was not angry with her for not telling her as soon as possible. She hugged Sakura, having the nice feeling of having her best friend again.
~*~
"Tomoyo-chan!" Sakura called out, waving.
Tomoyo smiled as she walked with Eriol towards Sakura and Syaoran. They met up at the train station before going down to the city. Kero, Spinel Sun and Nakuru joined them as well. Together, the group set out for the city. They bought tickets and got to the train, which took them to the city.
The girls talked merrily. All three of them chatted about the latest fashions and the latest designs that they have seen. Nakuru, being half girl was practically into all of the feminine stuff. Eriol, Syaoran and the two guardians had a manly debate over soccer on how English players do so well and are broadcasted all around the world.
Basically, the train was a half an hour ride and by the time they all got there, they were all filled with enough energy to walk the whole day. Nakuru pulled both Tomoyo and Sakura to many different clothing outlets. She also made both Tomoyo and Sakura try on many strange outfits.
The boys were practically bored to death but did not say anything the moment the girls came out parading their outfits that Nakuru had chosen specially for them. After a few stops, the boys excused themselves to go wander off on their own and said that they will meet the girls at a restaurant down the street where they were all familiar with.
In truth, Syaoran wanted to talk to Eriol and they were trying not to get in the middle of the girls bonding sessions. They excused themselves to go to some other shop so that they could leave the girls on their own. The boys went off, leaving the girls with Nakuru.
While Nakuru went nuts with the many different styles of tops, Sakura and Tomoyo got talking. Sakura carefully avoided mentioning about Tomoyo's illness. Tomoyo sensed it and quickly told Sakura about how sorry she was to not let her know first. Sakura went into one of her crying hysterics and hugged Tomoyo. Tomoyo smiled as she felt her chest tightened.
*Thoughts 6: I'm going to miss you so much. -Tomoyo Daidouji*
When Nakuru was done, the girls went for a walk. Then, they lost Nakuru in one of the shops. The two went straight to the restaurant, as they know that they were supposed to that was where everyone was meeting at if anyone got lost. When they got there, they didn't spot the boys but they went to get a table anyway.
Their table was at the balcony deck, which overlooks the harbour and the ocean view. It was a breathtaking sight. The waiter gave them the menus and waited for their orders. The girl ordered their drinks first as they were waiting for the boys so they could have lunch together.
The waiter smiled and left the two girls after taking down their orders. Both Sakura and Tomoyo looked at the view. Tomoyo smiled at the sight. It was pretty hard to believe that she won't be able to enjoy it in another two months time. Her expressions changed at the thought of it. Sakura noticed the sudden change of expression.
"Tomoyo-chan, daijoubu desu ka?" Sakura asked.
Tomoyo snapped out of it and smiled at Sakura.
'I'm fine", Tomoyo said.
The waiter appeared with the drinks. He laid down the drinks and left. Sakura looked at Tomoyo. She felt saddened that her best friend was going to leave her soon. The memories that they both shared together were priceless. She had owed her everything in her life to Tomoyo.
Tomoyo had been there from the very beginning. She had been by her side almost all of her life. Tomoyo was the one that stood beside her when the Clow cards had first came. She was also there to tape her life with her video camera. She was there whenever she needed her. Tomoyo was practically her sister.
Tomoyo was also the one who pushed both Syaoran and her to get together despite her own infatuation for her. She never said anything about being displeased at all. The events that almost took her life when she was with her. Sakura felt that she had owed her entire life to Tomoyo.
"Tomoyo-chan", she started.
"Nani?" Tomoyo asked.
"I never really got to say thank you to you for being there with me all my life. I never really got to tell you how much you meant to me and I think that I better tell you now before it's too late", Sakura said.
"Sakura-chan......."
"I want to say thank you for always being there for me. One is for being my friend and the other for being the closest person to me. You have always brought laughter to my life and comfort to me when I really need it. Tomoyo- chan, thank you so much", Sakura said, tears forming slowly.
Tears were starting to form in Tomoyo's eyes as well. Tomoyo put her hand on top of Sakura's and smiled at her.
"You don't have to say you're welcome, Sakura-chan. We're practically siblings. What we share is enough understanding for me", Tomoyo said.
"I may have rejected your feelings as a lover but I have accepted your love to me as a sister. Tomoyo-chan, my love for you might not be enough to stop you from you illness but it is enough to keep your heart beating. I will miss you but I will never stop loving you", Sakura said.
Tears trickled down Tomoyo's cheek. She went over to Sakura's side and hugged her. They wiped away their tears and smiled at each other.
"Sakura-chan, I love you too." Tomoyo said in a soft whisper.
~*~
Just about a couple of minutes after that, Eriol and Syaoran appeared along with Nakuru. Kero and Spinel Sun were in Nakuru's bag. They noticed that Nakuru was also holding something else, a camcorder. Tomoyo's eyes widened. Sakura raised an eyebrow, questioning the boys.
"We thought of filming Daidouji-san and her times with us", Syaoran said.
"This is going to be so fun! I'm going to be the camcorder person!" Nakuru said.
"Let's hope she doesn't break the thing", Spinel Sun said.
"Suppi-chan!" Nakuru spat.
Everyone laughed. Tomoyo felt a bit strange. Usually, she would be the one behind the camera but this time, she was the objective of the camera. It felt pretty strange. The group ordered their food and chatted along. Syaoran sat next to Sakura while Eriol sat next to Tomoyo. Nakuru sat in between Sakura and Tomoyo so that she could start her filming.
The group started chatting about random things. Then, Eriol resorted to teasing the couple about how far they have gone with each other. The two blushed hard. Tomoyo laughed at the sight. Then, the resorted to playing a small game of truth or dare while eating their lunch.
Sakura was first up. She asked Syaoran 'Truth or Dare'. He replied 'Dare'. She dared him to take off his shirt in front of everyone at the restaurant. Being dared and challenged, Syaoran did it. He was left very red. Nakuru had this filmed. Syaoran managed to dare Eriol to do the same. Eriol did it as well, revealing a rather finely masculine and toned body. Eriol however, did not blush at all but Tomoyo did, for some bizarre reason.
Eriol asked Sakura how far have she gone with Syaoran and this caused major embarrassment to the couple. They refused to tell, but was forced by both Eriol and Tomoyo. Then, Sakura admitted that they have had sex with a very bright red face. Syaoran was equally as red. Nakuru even had this confession filmed.
"Tomoyo-chan, truth or dare?" Sakura asked.
"Dare", Tomoyo answered.
"Ok, I dare you to give Eriol a kiss", Sakura said.
Tomoyo stopped smiling. Eriol looked at her and she looked at him. Shyly, she gave him a small peck at the cheek. Sakura frowned and said that it was supposed to be a full on kiss on the lips. Tomoyo was forced and she blushed harder. She turned to him and looked into his eyes. He did not protest. It wasn't the first time that they have kissed, what was the problem? Was there a problem?
She leaned forward and gave him a kiss on the lips. Lips touched and feelings began to emerge. The moment their lips touched, the addiction began. Tomoyo was first to move her lips. She kissed his lower lip and he replied the similar motion. Eyes were closed. They didn't feel anyone else was there besides them. That was when they were disturbed.
"Kawaii!!!!!!!!!" Sakura squealed.
The two broke apart immediately and turned away. They blushed deep red. This time both Syaoran and Sakura had the upper hand of disturbing them. They continued the game and nothing harmless came out of that except for a few emerging feelings. Noticeable or not, that's for them to know.
After lunch, the group went for another round of shopping. They stopped by many different shops and even managed to stop by at a photo shop where they took instant personalized portraits of themselves. They managed to dress up and take a picture of it. The guys went for the high class suit while the girls chose the dresses, of course.
The photographer who took their pictures said that each one of them had very photogenic looks and were very lucky to have high features. The poses were very simple. The group one was of all of them together. Nakuru was sitting in front holding the two guardians while Syaoran, Sakura, Tomoyo and Eriol were standing behind her.
"Now, you four at the back. Guys hold the girls around their waist and girls put your hands on top of theirs", the photographer said.
Syaoran and Sakura did it without a sweat but Eriol and Tomoyo were a bit hesitant. They were both blushing at it. The photographer however was not very patient. He mumbled something to himself and frowned at the two. Reluctantly, Eriol put his arms around Tomoyo's waist, imitating Syaoran's pose. Tomoyo leaned against his chest and placed her on hands on top of his.
The photographer raised his thumb up and clicks the flash button. The whole group smile with the camera. Then, there were several other pictures taken. Each of the pictures had Tomoyo in it. There was even a personalized picture of her and Eriol in a very enchanting and yet, comfortable pose. Eriol draped his arm on Tomoyo's shoulder and the both of them smiled at the camera.
In about two hours time, all the pictures were developed and it turned out really good. Sakura and Nakuru couldn't stop squealing. They couldn't even stop teasing Tomoyo about how good she looked in the pictures. Usually, this happened to Sakura but now, Tomoyo was in the spotlight. It was something that she wasn't very familiar with.
After the photo shoot session, Nakuru dragged the group to have another round of walking again. This time, Nakuru was very entranced on jewelry. She saw several kinds of necklaces and was pretty interested in getting them. The group followed her wishes of course, and went in with her.
Sakura and Syaoran were looking at rings while Eriol and Tomoyo were just browsing along somewhere else. Nakuru bought a couple of silver necklaces for a real good price while Syaoran bought Sakura a silver emerald ring. Tomoyo squealed and teased the two.
"Thinking of engagement already, Syaoran-kun?" Tomoyo teased.
The couple blushed and turned around again. Tomoyo had a look at the collections of rings that were there. A wide variety of diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and opals were laid out in the glass display. Tomoyo had a tender spot for both Sapphires and amethyst. She liked them both. That was when she spotted a sapphire ring. It was of a brilliant cut. It was simple and yet, it attracted her. She liked the style of it, plain and simple. For some reason, the moment she saw it, it reminded her of Eriol.
Eriol had noticed her interest in the ring as well. He saw the price of the ring, it was quite reasonable for sapphire ring of that size. He made a quick change of mind and left with the rest of the crowd towards another store. He knew that Tomoyo was still thinking of the ring because of her concentration on thoughts. He wondered why.
~*~
Knock! Knock!
The sound of someone outside her door brought a sense of disturbance to her. Tomoyo called the person in. Eriol was not there with her that day. He said he'll drop by later in the evening. Tomoyo felt a bit lonely. She was just in her room, thinking when someone had come and knock on her door.
"Come in", she said.
The person came in and greeted Tomoyo. It was Nakuru and she had Spinel Sun with her. Tomoyo was surprised, nonetheless. She was even more surprised when she saw Yukito with them. She greeted the three with a smile. The three closed the door and locked it, wanting to have privacy with Tomoyo.
"Kobanwa Tomoyo-sama", Spinel Sun and Nakuru greeted.
"Kobanwa Tomoyo-chan", Yukito said.
"Kobanwa. To what honour do I have to have the company of the three of you?" Tomoyo asked.
The three laughed along with her. Tomoyo left a smile.
"Actually, the three of us are here to talk to you about something", Nakuru said.
"Let me change to my other half, he says he needs to talk to you", Yukito said.
Instantly, Yue emerged from Yukito's body. Tomoyo was intrigued. When Yue was done, the three guardians seemed more prepared. Tomoyo wondered what exactly did they wanted to talk about.
"So, tell me. Why are the three of you here?" Tomoyo asked.
"We have come to tell you that we sympathized your situation right now, Tomoyo-sama. We come to offer you comfort as we sense your despair", Spinel Sun said.
"The three of you can sense me?" she asked, bewildered.
"Yes, we can all sense you", Nakuru said, softly.
"How is it possible? I am not your master and I do not have a magical background", Tomoyo said.
"The bond that we share with you is as strong as the ones that we share with out masters. You have showered us with the same feelings and emotions as they have. You treat us as an equal to you. For that, we are eternally in your debt of kindness", Yue said.
"A bond? We all share a bond?" Tomoyo asked.
The three nodded their heads. Tomoyo felt astonished. She also felt saddened. She had tried as far as possible to just forget about death for once but everyone was making her feel so precious and it was making it hard for her. With the three guardians here, telling her this. She felt even more burdened. It was just like what Eriol and Sakura was doing to her. They made her feel wanted. They made her feel that her death was not as easy as it seems. They made her feel loved.
"We can also sense your fear for your feelings, Tomoyo-sama", Spinel Sun said.
"My fear of my feelings?" Tomoyo asked.
She looked at the three. Had they been reading her mind? The first word that came to her mind was Eriol. The first image to appear in her head was Eriol. The first voice she heard in her head was also Eriol. She walked towards her balcony and looked out sadly.
"You do have feelings for Eriol-sama, don't you?" Nakuru asked.
Tomoyo nodded her head.
"Then, why do you not accept him? Why do you leave him to torment himself with these unreturned feelings of yours?" Spinel Sun asked.
Tomoyo went silent. She just looked out of the mirror. A single tear fell down her cheek. The three noticed it and had felt sorry for her.
"The reason why I wish not to accept his feelings is because I feel that it is a selfish act. I do not want him to stay attached to the memory of me and not move on. Spinel Sun, Nakuru, Yue, Eriol cannot love me. I have rejected him before and thought that he would have given up but he did not", she said.
Another teardrop fell down her cheeks and hit the ground.
"That night that I shared with him in the mansion when I told him of my illness. I felt so scared and I felt so unprotected when I told him. I felt vulnerable. He turned it around and comforted me that night. I accepted his love that night and thought I could handled it but he showed me that he refused to erase me from his mind. My death will torture him. It will always follow him like a shadow if he does not keep his feelings away from me", Tomoyo said.
This time, Nakuru shed a tear as well.
"You have already accepted your death? Your fate?" Yue asked.
"As much as I would love to wish for a longer life, I will not. I have accepted death and I do welcome my fate with a pair of open arms and an open heart", Tomoyo said.
"But what is to become to your feelings for Eriol-sama? Don't you feel hurt at all? Don't you feel a single pain in you when you reject him and see him the way he is? Isn't that even more torturing to him?" Spinel Sun asked.
Tomoyo stopped dead track. Tears were already falling down her cheeks. She was trying to be strong but she just couldn't. She fell down on her knees and broke down. Instantly, the three guardians came to her side and comforted her. Yue wrapped his arms around the girl and gave her a sense of comfort.
"It is the hardest thing for me to do. For me to look him in the eye and tell him that I cannot return his feelings broke me more than it did to him. I was afraid at that time and I still am now. I am afraid what will come to him and me. I do not want him to feel like he has no more life without me in it", she said, crying tears of sadness.
The three gave her a break. Tomoyo cried on Yue's chest. She had been crying so much lately. She had let out all her emotions almost everyday. It had been a repeating motion. Every night that she had been alone, she cried, thinking about death.
It had scared her more now that it was already the second last week of November. She had started to feel weak. She had already started to feel her lungs weakening. The pain on her chest was beginning to feel unbearable. She knew that slowly, her life was being drained out of her and soon, she will no longer be alive.
~*~
The sky outside was dark.
The dark blue horizon had taken over the light of the day.
The streets of Tomoeda were bright as it was the Festival of Lights.
Every year, Tomoeda would celebrate this occasion. Every year, Tomoyo would celebrate this occasion with her friends. This year, it was to be her last. Like every year, Sakura and her would go to the Tsukimine Shrine on top of the hill, where Kaho Mizuki or Mizuki-sensei used to work. Her father was the owner of the place and she had went there to help during Sakura's first time capturing the Clow cards of course.
Tonight, she was going to be joined by her other friends which were Takeshi Yamazaki, Chiharu Mihara, Reika Sasaki and Naoko Yanagisawa. Of course, Sakura, Syaoran and Eriol were to join as well. By tradition, the girls should wear the kimono and the guys should wear the equivalent of it.
Tomoyo wore a gorgeous looking kimono. It was a light mixed color of purple and pink with silver streaming. It fitted her nicely and brought out the nice contrast with her eyes as well. Her hair was nicely done up into a complicated messy bun with a few strands curled, hanging down her face, creating a framing effect.
She took quite some time to dress up so nicely. After all, tonight was the night of celebrations. As she looked in the mirror for the effect, she had to say that it was nicely done although her skin was pale as ever. It was far too pale to be called fair. She had a bit of foundation and powder on just to make her face glow. To finish it up, she applied a bit of lip gloss on her lips.
Her driver drove her straight to the footsteps of the shrine where some of her friends were already there. Reika, Yamazaki, Naoko, Chiharu and Eriol were already there and they were talking. Tomoyo got out of the car and went to them. Her friends greeted her with a nice compliment of her looks. Eriol showered her with the most compliments which caused her to blush.
"You look enchanting, Tomoyo-chan", Eriol said.
"You don't look so bad yourself, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said.
It was true. Eriol was not wearing the traditional outfit but he was wearing a very nice outfit. He wore a dark navy blue turtleneck sweater with a simple coat to keep him warm and black jeans. He looked dashing. He had on a very simple outfit but it did bring out a sense of style to his features. His smile again was very charming and warm.
"Did you know that back then, the people of Tomoeda used to dress up like ghost during the festival of lights to scare away the light ghosts?" Yamazaki said.
"Yamazaki!!!!!!" Chiharu yelled.
"Oh, and that the light ghosts only wants the virgin women. They tend to possessed the men to seduced the women into their house and still the women's virginity", Eriol continued on.
By that time, all the girls were blushing madly and were rather scared. Chiharu had her hands strangling Yamazaki's neck. It was a rather hilarious sight. Tomoyo blushed at Eriol's continuation and looked away. Then, a familiar voice was heard.
"HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!"
It was Sakura; she was running with Syaoran by her side. They ran towards the group, panting. The group was grinning at the couple at why they were late. Tomoyo decided to taunt the two.
"The light ghost didn't possess Li-kun to get your virginity, did it, Sakura-chan? Is that why you are late?" Tomoyo asked.
"Nani?" Sakura asked.
When she got it, she blushed into a deep crimson color of red. The group then went and looked around at the many different games that had been opened. The festival had many lights and was very well done. There were games, there were hawkers and there were so many other activities to do.
Together, as a group, they went around, enjoying themselves. However, the two couples that were in the group were showing close affections to each other. Yamazaki and Chiharu were holding hands and smiling at each other. Sakura was holding Syaoran's arm as they walk.
The guys had a wild competition when they came to the teddy bear stands. All three guys had their guns loaded and began to shoot their target. They all had perfect aim and perfect shots. The teddy bears were being loaded to the table.
Yamazaki's pile was for Chiharu, Syaoran's pile was for Sakura and Eriol's pile was for the all three of the girls, Reika, Naoko and Tomoyo so that they did not feel left out. Reika and Naoko thanked Eriol. Of course, the largest teddy bear went to Tomoyo. She blushed and quietly thanked him for getting it for her.
Then somehow, the group broke and most of them had wandered off by themselves. Eriol got stuck with Tomoyo, no surprise there. He was with her at every moment. He had helped her get a gold fish and he had also watched her get hoops on the target to get a plushy toy. She liked his company because he didn't make her feel pressured. He did not push her or made her feel awkward that so many things have been happening lately.
Eriol suggested that they took a walk around the lake. Tomoyo agreed. The two walked on in silence. Both having thoughts in their head. It was the solitude that brought comfort to both of them and to solitude, they shall return it to. It was somehow, relaxing.
For two weeks, Tomoyo have been watching Eriol and she had felt so much for him. She had to keep herself away from feeling attached to him. Yes, she loved him but she just couldn't have him feel that way for her, not at a time like this. Not when he knew that he was going to lose her.
She was already counting down the days. It was already the first week of December. The chill and the wind were showing that the bitter winter was coming. Her heart was also beating slower than before. She could feel it coming and she was starting to grow scared. With all that everyone had done for her, she felt like someone stabbing her heart. It was a damage done to her. All her vows for attachments had failed. She now feared leaving them and she feared death.
Eriol had noticed the aura in the girl weakening, day by day. He knew that she was trying to hide everything. He knew her tricks. Eriol had also been watching her everyday and every night whether he was by her side or not. He had been observing how her breathing was suddenly no longer in rhythm at night and how she was having a hard time running. He noticed almost the slightest difference in her. He knew that it was coming and he could feel her fear.
"Eriol-kun?" she said, quietly.
"Nani?" Eriol asked.
"Daijoubu desu ka?" she asked.
"Daijoubu da yo", he answered.
"You seem to have drifted off", Tomoyo said, softly.
"Gomen ne", he said.
"It's alright", she said.
Again, silence. They both looked into the water and saw each other. Then, Eriol realized something. He had something to give to Tomoyo. He reached out into the pocket and grabbed it.
"Tomoyo, I have something to give to you", Eriol said.
"You do?" Tomoyo asked.
Eriol held out a small velvet box in his hand. Tomoyo was astonished, she blinked. She reached out for the box, opened it and her mouth dropped. Inside the box was the ring that she had eyed that day when they were in the city. She looked at Eriol.
"I thought you might liked it, so I bought it", Eriol said.
"Eriol-kun..... I cannot accept this. This is too much", Tomoyo said
She gave the box back to him. He shook her head and gently placed it back into her hand. She looked at him. She didn't know what to say. Then, he took the ring out and placed in on her middle finger.
"Take it as a ring of friendship, from me to you", Eriol said.
She didn't know what to say. She saw the ring sparkle under the moonlight. She looked at it and then she looked at Eriol. He had bought her the ring that she was eyeing at the other day. It was a gift from him to her. She was astounded. Then, he brought her hand to his lips and kissed it.
"That could not have meant friendship, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said, teasing him.
"It might not have meant friendship, for all you know", Eriol said.
He closed in to her. She felt breathless. Again, he had did this to her. This time, she did not push him away. She let him close in to her. She let him wrapped his arms around her waist. She wanted him to do so. She closed her eyes and let him hold her. He was a bit surprised but he offered her comfort.
He turned her around and looked deeply into her eyes. She gazed back at him. She was so lost, she was vulnerable, and she was everything but fine. She felt his grip around her tightened. He smiled softly at her before leaning down and placing his lips on hers into a soft gentle kiss. Her eyes fluttered close as she felt his lips on hers.
It was a soft, gentle and sweet one. She felt a tear forming and falling down her cheek. She felt saved by him. His lips were kissing hers and making her feel things that she couldn't explain. The moment his tongue licked her lips, begging for entrance. She let him in. Not only physically but mentally as well.
The moment lasted for quite sometime. Then, they broke apart for air. He looked at her and she looked back at him. She smiled, signifying that she did accept him and that she allowed him to share her moments with her. He smiled down at the raven angel he was holding in his arms.
"I love you, Tomoyo", he whispered into her ears.
"I..... Love......."
She felt weak. Just before she could say it, she fell on Eriol. She just felt like all the energy she had just went out of her body. Eriol caught her before she could fall. He started to worry.
~*~
"Tomoyo, I'm taking you to the hospital", he said.
"No! I don't want to. I want to go home", she said, weakly.
That was when she felt her chest tightened. Her eyes widened at the sudden impact of pain that had struck her chest. Her grip on Eriol's shirt tightened as her other hand clutched her heart. She was having a hard time breathing and she was coughing as well. The moment she started coughing, blood spilled. She kept coughing and she couldn't stop herself. Eriol held her in his arms, not knowing what to do.
He watched as she coughed blood out to his shirt. He couldn't believe what was happening. On moment, she had accepted him and the other minute; she was coughing for her life. Her eyes widened and it was a horrific sight. She was coughing and blood was spilling everywhere.
"Eriol-kun... Help me... I do not want to go to the hospital", she begged him.
Eriol was left with a hard choice. Immediately, he sent distressed signals to Sakura and Syaoran before transporting Tomoyo and himself to the hospital despite her wishes. There, the doctor was alerted immediately. Eriol carried her to the bed and the nurses dealt with her from then. He followed them as they entered the emergency room.
His mind was so confused. His energy went through her but it did not manage to calm her down like it had used to. He held Tomoyo's hand as she was rushed into the room. They fused around with Tomoyo and made Eriol leave the room. He left, reluctant. Now he was scared. He was scared for her. He didn't want to think that she was going to go. He prayed that she will be alright. He punched the wall in frustration.
"Eriol-kun!" Sakura's voice was heard.
He turned around to see Sakura, Syaoran and Sonomi running towards him.
"What happened?" Sonomi asked.
"We were talking and she just started coughing blood. I brought her back here. She said she didn't want to go to the hospital", Eriol said.
"How is she right now?" Sakura asked.
"I don't know.. I don't know..." Eriol said, shaking his head.
Syaoran held Sakura. She had her hands over her mouth. She didn't know what else to do. Sonomi was quiet on her own. Eriol was just frustrated. He slumped down and just sat there, head on knees and arms wrapped around his legs. They stayed like that for a while and kept their heads on the light which flashed 'Emergency room'.
After about two hours, the doctors came out of the emergency room. Immediately, all four of them went up to him, asking him about Tomoyo's condition. He looked down and told them what they had to know.
"I'm sorry but we can't do anything for her anymore. Her lungs are just too damaged. I'm afraid that you will have to prepare yourselves for her", he said.
The four was left in sadness. Sakura and Sonomi cried. Eriol was heartbroken. It was unfair. She had just told him that she had accepted him. She had just fully accepted him to her heart. Tears started streaming down his cheek as he punched the wall. He was frustrated and he was sad. This wasn't supposed to happen. This was all wrong. He wiped away his tears and faced the others.
"This should not have happened", Eriol said, frustrated.
The others looked at him.
"This shouldn't be happening! Not now...."Eriol said.
Hot tears poured by a few droplets, one by one. He slumped on the wall again, collapsing and leaning towards the wall. His head fell on his knees as he cried. He was about to lose the one girl who made his life complete. It hurts. He did not prepare himself for it. He cried out on his hearts contents.
After a while, he stood up and faced the others.
"Let's bring Tomoyo back to the mansion. It is her wish that she doesn't die in the hospital", Eriol said, wiping away his tears.
The others looked at him and nodded.
~*~
It was unfair how everything was supposed to be fine but it wasn't.
It was unfair how she was just supposed to go like that.
It was unfair how life was so complicated.
It was also unfair how it was just hard to let go.
Tomoyo was transported back to the Daidouji residence, to her own room. Sakura, Syaoran, Sonomi, Touya, Fujitaka, Nakuru, Spinel Sun, Nakuru, Yukito and Kero were there along with Eriol. They were all standing by the back of the walls while Sakura and Eriol sat just on Tomoyo's sides.
The raven girl was breathing in a very slow rhythm, signifying that anytime, she could just stop breathing. Her eyes closed, in a rather deep sleep. Her body looked lifeless, as if all energy has been sucked out. She looked weak and extremely pale. It was a sight of sadness for those who knew her and for those who were watching her.
Sobs and sniffs were heard in the room, mostly coming from Sonomi, Nakuru and Sakura. Tears fell to the ground, not drying. Content faces all looking miserable at the raven girl who is about to give up her life, once and for all. The girl that they had all knew and loved.
The moment she stirred and opened her eyes, everyone was beginning to feel a bit happy but it changed to sad, in a split second. Tomoyo had her eyes set on everyone who was in her room. She saw the tears coming down from her own mother, Sakura and Nakuru. She noticed tear stains on Eriol's cheeks despite the dim lights in the room. She felt weak. She knew what was coming to her.
The first person that she reached out to was her mother. She called her to her and told her how much she loved her and that she should always know that she is there with her. The second person was Touya. She thanked him for being there as a brother to her and told him to take care of Yukito- san. Then, she thanked Fujitaka for his constant hospitality that he provided whenever she was with them.
"Li-kun, I have always envied how you managed to steal Sakura's heart when back then I was in love with her. I had hated you once but the moment you came back and I saw Sakura's eyes, I think that you deserved her more than anyone else. You have been the best of friends so far and I want to thank you for that", Tomoyo said, weakly.
"Daidouji-san, I have never thank you for getting me and Sakura together, despite your own feelings for her. I guess now would be the right time. You have been the greatest female friend I have besides Meiling and I would just like to thank you for that. I am forever in your debt", Syaoran said.
She smiled, weakly at him and he returned the favor. He leaned in, kissed her on the forehead and stepped back. Tomoyo looked up at Sakura. Sakura was crying and it broke Tomoyo's heart. She held back the tears; she didn't want anymore tears to fall. She reached out for Sakura's hand and held it. Sakura looked at her and shook her head.
"You cannot leave me here like this, Tomoyo-chan. You cannot leave me", Sakura wailed.
"I'm sorry, Sakura", Tomoyo said.
"You cannot leave me, I'll never be able to move on without you", Sakura cried.
"You can.... I'm not your only friend, Sakura. You have so many others. You will survive and you will move on but promise me something", Tomoyo said.
"What? Anything, just don't leave me. Please.. don't leave like this", Sakura cried.
"Promise me that you will always remember me and that you will always smile", Tomoyo said.
Sakura cried harder and buried her head on Tomoyo's chest. She nodded her head but she cried harder. Her tears soaked Tomoyo's shirt and made Tomoyo feel even sadder. It was so hard to let go with everyone like this. She looked at Eriol, who was looking at her with more than just love in his eyes.
*Thoughts 7: I have been granted my wish but why does my heart not feel content? -Eriol Hiragizawa*
Eriol held her other hand when he saw her reaching out to him. Sakura stepped back and went into Syaoran's arms. Everyone left the room, for the two to be alone. They were all saddened with grief, by the fact that the raven beauty was going to leave for life. They wanted Eriol, the one who suffered the most to spend her last moments with her.
The moment everyone left, Tomoyo looked at Eriol in the eyes. He smiled at her, giving her a comfort and a bit of assurance that things will be alright. She believed him of course despite the fact that she was going to go. He held her hand and kissed her knuckles. The sapphire ring still stayed on her finger.
"Eriol-kun... Take me to the window, I want to see the stars", Tomoyo requested.
Eriol obeyed her wish. He gently picked her up in his arms and brought her to the bay window where there was a chair. He sat on it and held her with her sitting on his lap, leaning against him. He could feel her aura weakening and dropping at a very quick pace.
"That's Polaris, isn't it?" Tomoyo asked.
Eriol nodded.
Polaris was another name for the Northern Star. It was also known as heaven to some people. It was a place of pure serenity and solace. It was a place where people who have settled everything on earth would go to when their time has come and if a shooting star shoots from Polaris, it means that someone is chosen to join the stars.
People usually make a wish when they see a shooting star. Like the other night, Eriol made a wish and it had come true. He felt a loss in his heart. He was holding her in his arms, waiting for her life to end to her last breath.
She watched the sky and felt Eriol's warmth, despite the sudden chill that she was getting. She felt his arms wrapped around her, tightened. She felt the comfort that he was giving her. He kissed her temple several times.
"Eriol-kun...." she started.
"Ssh... Don't speak, let's just enjoy this, alright?" he whispered into her ears.
"Eriol... I want to say something", she said.
He let her continue, turning her to let her face him.
"I want you to make a promise to me. I want you to promise me that you will forget me and erase me from your heart. I want you to move on", she said.
"I don't think I can", Eriol said, shaking his head.
"You must, for me. Please Eriol, promise me", she said, her breathe caught in her throat.
Tomoyo was looking at him with pleading eyes. Tears were forming and were about to fall but he could tell that she was trying to be strong for herself. She wanted him to promise her the impossible. It was her last wish and she had wanted it to be done. Eriol looked at her, trying not to cry as well. Hot tears stung from behind his eyes, waiting to trickle down his cheeks.
"Eriol-kun.. please.. "She pleaded.
"I promise", he said, reluctantly.
She smiled at him and looked at the stars again. She stared up at the sky, awaiting unconsciousness to overtake her. She felt Eriol's nose nuzzling her hair. She had felt content but she still wanted to tell him how she really felt before she went. She turned to him again and gave him a final kiss.
He felt her lips on his for a short moment just before she took her last breathe and fell limp on him. Her eyes closed and her lips curved in a smile. A single tear fell down from her eyes to her cheek.
For a moment, he stared into the sky and holding the lifeless body of his most beloved. A shooting star came shooting in the skies. It was from Polaris. It had claimed her life. Tears trickled down his cheek as he continued holding Tomoyo in his arms.
"Tonight, I wish to make another wish. I wish that she would know that I will love her always and forevermore", he whispered, directing it to the skies as the star shot over it.
His face had no expression. He had felt only sadness. He felt the most painful lost that he could ever feel. He had lost her far too early. He was not prepared for it but she had gone and he had made a promise that he could never keep.
*Thoughts 8: The shooting star has come from the North. That is the pure porcelain tears of Polaris. The heavens are crying for the one that they had claim the life from. They shed a tear for the one that they have come to chose and the life that they claimed was hers. -Eriol Hiragizawa*
Tomoyo Daidouji had died on the 3rd of December 2002. She was loved by many and cared by many. This was her story of the last moments that she had with her loved ones. She died peacefully and happily in the arms of Eriol Hiragizawa, her beloved one. She died at precisely 11pm at night when the shooting star from Polaris had shot over the skies. She had secretly made 2 wishes that night.
Dear Polaris,
I wish to make two wishes.
One, I wish that everyone that I love will always remember how much I love them.
And my second wish.....
I wish that some day....
I would be able to return to them again....
*The end*
A/n: That is it! I've finished it. I hope that you enjoyed it and don't forget to review!
A/n: I'm glad whomever that read this story actually like it. I'm supplying tissue papers for whoever that needs them. *Passes them out* If the last chapter did get to you a bit, you might want to prepare for this one. After this story, I'm writing another one of them sappy ExT sad fic. If you like this one, you will like the next one that I'm writing. The fic is going to be called 'Fly me to Polaris'. So, do watch out for that one.
P/s: Just to let you know, there are random points where it is written thoughts #. These little points are bits and pieces of what the character thinks. I hope you get it. I thought it was pretty random to put it there.
*Continuation*
Sapphire....
Amethyst....
Heavens touch of a delicate fire.....
Hells touch for a soft sensual mist.....
*Thoughts 1: I cannot fall in love with the girl but I already am in love with her. I stand by my promise to her and I shall obey her wishes -Eriol Hiragizawa*
He sat by her side, observing her sleeping figure. The rise and fall of her chest was steady in rhythm. He held her hand and kissed her palm, feeling her extremely weak pulse. It had been 3 weeks since she had fallen into a deep sleep of coma.
Every night for the past 3 weeks, Eriol had been by her side. He watched his sleeping beauty. It was easier for him because Sonomi Daidouji have transferred Tomoyo from the hospital to the comfort of the Daidouji mansion. She wanted her daughter home and she had allowed Eriol to stay by her daughter's side.
Sonomi had watched the navy blue haired boy that stayed by her daughter's side. She noticed the emotions and concern that he had for Tomoyo. For some reason, she saw Fujitaka's personality in the young boy. The boy did look the way Fujitaka did when Nadeshiko was sick. Both males had the same look of love in their eyes. It was an unmistakable look.
*Thoughts 2: His eyes seem so full of love and concern. They looked like Fujitaka's eyes when Nadeshiko was diagnosed with the illness. Both so filled with love and hope. -Sonomi Daidouji*
During that period of time, Sonomi had decided to announce Tomoyo's condition. She felt guilty because she was breaking her promise to her own daughter but having to cope with the heartbreak alone was making it harder than it already was. The fact that Tomoyo had no more than 2 months to live was beyond sadness and grief.
When Sonomi told Eriol her decision, he agreed and shared her grief. He even went to the length of hugging the woman just to offer her a sense of comfort. That night, Sonomi broke down and cried for her daughter. Eriol had become her confidant for that one night.
Eriol understood how Sonomi felt, after all; it must have been hard for her to accept the fact that her one and only daughter were going to die before her. She had to put up a strong upfront but it was time for it to break. That trait was familiar in both Daidouji females.
The night after that, Sonomi called Fujitaka and told him the news. The reaction from the other side of the line was instant grief. Fujitaka had announced it to his family and the news were not taken that well.
About 25 minutes later, the Kinomoto family reached the Daidouji mansion. When Sonomi saw Fujitaka, she just broke down and cried. Fujitaka held her in his arms and comforted her. Sakura and Touya didn't look very stabile either. Yukito was there as well because he had been with the Kinomoto family at that time.
The maid took Sakura, Touya and Yukito to Tomoyo's room. They went in and were greeted by the sight of Eriol Hiragizawa holding Tomoyo's hand. At the sense of the reincarnate of the old Clow Master, Ceroberus and Yue emerged to their real forms. They bowed in front of Eriol.
*Thoughts 3: Tomoyo-chan, my best friend and my sister, I wish you did not have to go through this. You do not deserve this cruelty. You deserve so much more. -Sakura Kinomoto*
Tears formed and streamed down Sakura's cheeks. She went to Tomoyo's side and started crying. Touya comforted his sister by hugging her. It was a devastating sight. Sakura looked at her best friend's sleeping form and broke down into a million pieces. The sight of her close friend in the edge of death as it consumed her brought the sense of loss. Sakura cried in her brother's arms.
Ceroberus and Yue knelt in front of Eriol as they sensed despair in their reincarnated master. Then, Spinel Sun and Ruby Moon appeared into the room. They all sensed despair in their master and they also sense him weakening. Eriol was practically as pale as Tomoyo.
"Master, how is Tomoyo-sama doing?" Spinel Sun asked.
"Not so well, Spinel Sun", Eriol answered.
"Can't you use magic or something to heal her?" Touya asked.
"Magic cannot stop the inevitable. It is wrong to use magic to stop what is fated for Tomoyo-sama", Yue said.
It was true what Yue had said. Magic cannot stop the inevitable. It would be wrong and it would probably cause more harm to her and it would jeopardize her health even more. To Eriol, doing the wrong thing for the right reasons is still the wrong thing.
"Eriol-kun, isn't there something that you can do to help her?" Sakura asked.
"I can only do one thing for her. I can only be her friend and follow her wishes", Eriol said, softly.
Sakura broke down in hysterics. Nakuru broke down as well. Touya held his sister as she wept tears of grief for her best friend. Spinel Sun patted Nakuru's back with his paw. That night, every barrier broke and they all wept in sadness, fear and frustration.
~*~
Another week almost passed by but Tomoyo had finally gained consciousness. Her eyes fluttered open and her vision was focused on the person who was next to her, holding her hand. She was greeted with the sight of her navy blue knight asleep and yet, still holding her hand.
She smiled at the sight that he was here and in some parts of her heart, she felt a bit sadder. She had to admit that she had fallen in love with him but she just simply could not accept him. It was beyond her reach and it was beyond her rules. She had vowed not to fall in love with him during this time of crisis.
Her eyes fell to his hand, which was holding hers. She felt touched by his kindness. She felt rather sickened by his sympathy but she knew that there was more to it than just blind empathies. He had love for her and that love will bring attachments. Attachments, by far is not what she wanted at the moment.
*Thoughts 4: Eriol-kun, why do you put yourself in such a position for me? Do you know what you are making me feel? Do you know that you'll only hurt me and yourself in the process? -Tomoyo Daidouji*
She slipped her hand out of his hand and touched his face. He looked tired and miserable as if he had not eaten for days. A pang of worry crept from inside her heart. She continued tracing his face with her fingers. He stirred and his eyes snapped open. The moment his vision cleared, he smiled at her.
"I'm glad to see that you are finally awake", Eriol said.
"Have you been here for a long time?" she asked, mouth dry.
Eriol stood up and went to her dresser where there was a jug of water and two glasses. He poured some water into the glass and brought it to Tomoyo. She thanked him before taking long gulps of the water.
"I've been here for almost 4 weeks", he said.
Tomoyo put down the glass on her side table. She looked up at Eriol. He seemed so tired and just so miserable and yet, he kept that marvelous smile of his plastered on his face. Somehow, it brought comfort to her.
He charmed her by his smile and his choice of words. They usually brought a deep sense of security to her. It was something very assuring that he had offered to her and she knew that she couldn't resist it. Eriol was simply a charmer. She liked that part of him.
"Eriol-kun", Tomoyo called out.
He looked at her, waiting for her to speak.
"Yes?" Eriol asked.
She looked down at her fingers and started to fidget with them as she tried to mutter her gratitude towards him.
"Thank you", she said.
He smiled at her, shaking his head. That was enough to make her smile. Then, he gave her a hug. The gesture surprised her and comforted her at the same time. It was as if he was giving her a whole new reason to fight for her life.
~*~
A few days later, Tomoyo settled to rest in her room. She managed to pick up a piece of paper and a pencil to start sketching. She managed to sketch out Eriol. The pencil linings featured his trademark smile and his perfectly shaped face.
In return, Eriol sketched her. It was a pretty funny sight as they were both sketching each other in her room. He got all of her features perfectly down to scale. Every pencil stroke brought the sketch to life. Every single touch of his sketch was set down to perfection.
When they were both done, they showed it to each other. She blushed. She took a good look at it and noticed the strokes of perfection. He noticed hers as well. They both begin to blush. Then, she smiled and kissed his cheek, leaving a slight tinge of red on his cheek where she had kissed him.
That day, they were both a bit content into what they were doing. After doing the sketches, Eriol had offered to take her out for a walk if she wanted to. Of course, she did not decline. He took her to Penguin Park, a place where she had not been to for a very long time ever since secondary school started.
There, the two walked and talked at the same time. They shared a bit of every single detail thoughts that they could think of. Eriol had also told her that Sakura and the other knows about her condition. At that time, Tomoyo's face fell but Eriol had assured her that her mother had done it out of concern.
*Thoughts 5: You protect yourself from what is to come. You will only suffer in the end with the other people that love you despite your efforts to protect them from being hurt. You will only hurt them and yourself even more. -Eriol Hiragizawa*
They stopped at the swings where many events have taken place there before. Many Clow Cards were captured here. Many tears have been wept here and many joys have taken place here as well. Tomoyo sat on one of the swings and began to push herself forward, letting the feeling of wind in her face. Eriol sat on the one next to her.
"Tomoyo-san", Eriol started.
"Yes, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said.
"I would like to take you to the city tomorrow along with Sakura and Syaoran", Eriol said.
"You would like to take me?" Tomoyo asked.
"Yes, I would like to take you", Eriol said.
"Sakura and Syaoran as well?" Tomoyo asked.
"I honestly think that it is time that you and Sakura get over this little discovery thing", Eriol said.
"It's not as easy as you say it is, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said, still swinging.
"You have got to face her, sooner or later." Eriol said.
Tomoyo looked at Eriol and he smiled at her. She nodded her head in agreement. It was going to be hard. To have kept all those secrets away and to tell it to the person that she had kept it from was going to be a hard task.
Just when the sky was getting dark, they head back to the Daidouji mansion. They took a long stroll, using the long ways and cutting through several different paths. Then, out of surprise, they bumped into Sakura and Syaoran, who were walking hand in hand. It was a rather awkward moment. Sakura's eyes widened at the sight of Tomoyo. Tomoyo looked at the ground and practically hid behind Eriol.
In a split second, Sakura ran towards Tomoyo and hugged the girl. Being Sakura, tears fell easily. It was the tears of joy that Tomoyo was all right. She was just so glad that Tomoyo was fine. Tomoyo hugged her friend back. She was glad that Sakura was not angry with her for not telling her as soon as possible. She hugged Sakura, having the nice feeling of having her best friend again.
~*~
"Tomoyo-chan!" Sakura called out, waving.
Tomoyo smiled as she walked with Eriol towards Sakura and Syaoran. They met up at the train station before going down to the city. Kero, Spinel Sun and Nakuru joined them as well. Together, the group set out for the city. They bought tickets and got to the train, which took them to the city.
The girls talked merrily. All three of them chatted about the latest fashions and the latest designs that they have seen. Nakuru, being half girl was practically into all of the feminine stuff. Eriol, Syaoran and the two guardians had a manly debate over soccer on how English players do so well and are broadcasted all around the world.
Basically, the train was a half an hour ride and by the time they all got there, they were all filled with enough energy to walk the whole day. Nakuru pulled both Tomoyo and Sakura to many different clothing outlets. She also made both Tomoyo and Sakura try on many strange outfits.
The boys were practically bored to death but did not say anything the moment the girls came out parading their outfits that Nakuru had chosen specially for them. After a few stops, the boys excused themselves to go wander off on their own and said that they will meet the girls at a restaurant down the street where they were all familiar with.
In truth, Syaoran wanted to talk to Eriol and they were trying not to get in the middle of the girls bonding sessions. They excused themselves to go to some other shop so that they could leave the girls on their own. The boys went off, leaving the girls with Nakuru.
While Nakuru went nuts with the many different styles of tops, Sakura and Tomoyo got talking. Sakura carefully avoided mentioning about Tomoyo's illness. Tomoyo sensed it and quickly told Sakura about how sorry she was to not let her know first. Sakura went into one of her crying hysterics and hugged Tomoyo. Tomoyo smiled as she felt her chest tightened.
*Thoughts 6: I'm going to miss you so much. -Tomoyo Daidouji*
When Nakuru was done, the girls went for a walk. Then, they lost Nakuru in one of the shops. The two went straight to the restaurant, as they know that they were supposed to that was where everyone was meeting at if anyone got lost. When they got there, they didn't spot the boys but they went to get a table anyway.
Their table was at the balcony deck, which overlooks the harbour and the ocean view. It was a breathtaking sight. The waiter gave them the menus and waited for their orders. The girl ordered their drinks first as they were waiting for the boys so they could have lunch together.
The waiter smiled and left the two girls after taking down their orders. Both Sakura and Tomoyo looked at the view. Tomoyo smiled at the sight. It was pretty hard to believe that she won't be able to enjoy it in another two months time. Her expressions changed at the thought of it. Sakura noticed the sudden change of expression.
"Tomoyo-chan, daijoubu desu ka?" Sakura asked.
Tomoyo snapped out of it and smiled at Sakura.
'I'm fine", Tomoyo said.
The waiter appeared with the drinks. He laid down the drinks and left. Sakura looked at Tomoyo. She felt saddened that her best friend was going to leave her soon. The memories that they both shared together were priceless. She had owed her everything in her life to Tomoyo.
Tomoyo had been there from the very beginning. She had been by her side almost all of her life. Tomoyo was the one that stood beside her when the Clow cards had first came. She was also there to tape her life with her video camera. She was there whenever she needed her. Tomoyo was practically her sister.
Tomoyo was also the one who pushed both Syaoran and her to get together despite her own infatuation for her. She never said anything about being displeased at all. The events that almost took her life when she was with her. Sakura felt that she had owed her entire life to Tomoyo.
"Tomoyo-chan", she started.
"Nani?" Tomoyo asked.
"I never really got to say thank you to you for being there with me all my life. I never really got to tell you how much you meant to me and I think that I better tell you now before it's too late", Sakura said.
"Sakura-chan......."
"I want to say thank you for always being there for me. One is for being my friend and the other for being the closest person to me. You have always brought laughter to my life and comfort to me when I really need it. Tomoyo- chan, thank you so much", Sakura said, tears forming slowly.
Tears were starting to form in Tomoyo's eyes as well. Tomoyo put her hand on top of Sakura's and smiled at her.
"You don't have to say you're welcome, Sakura-chan. We're practically siblings. What we share is enough understanding for me", Tomoyo said.
"I may have rejected your feelings as a lover but I have accepted your love to me as a sister. Tomoyo-chan, my love for you might not be enough to stop you from you illness but it is enough to keep your heart beating. I will miss you but I will never stop loving you", Sakura said.
Tears trickled down Tomoyo's cheek. She went over to Sakura's side and hugged her. They wiped away their tears and smiled at each other.
"Sakura-chan, I love you too." Tomoyo said in a soft whisper.
~*~
Just about a couple of minutes after that, Eriol and Syaoran appeared along with Nakuru. Kero and Spinel Sun were in Nakuru's bag. They noticed that Nakuru was also holding something else, a camcorder. Tomoyo's eyes widened. Sakura raised an eyebrow, questioning the boys.
"We thought of filming Daidouji-san and her times with us", Syaoran said.
"This is going to be so fun! I'm going to be the camcorder person!" Nakuru said.
"Let's hope she doesn't break the thing", Spinel Sun said.
"Suppi-chan!" Nakuru spat.
Everyone laughed. Tomoyo felt a bit strange. Usually, she would be the one behind the camera but this time, she was the objective of the camera. It felt pretty strange. The group ordered their food and chatted along. Syaoran sat next to Sakura while Eriol sat next to Tomoyo. Nakuru sat in between Sakura and Tomoyo so that she could start her filming.
The group started chatting about random things. Then, Eriol resorted to teasing the couple about how far they have gone with each other. The two blushed hard. Tomoyo laughed at the sight. Then, the resorted to playing a small game of truth or dare while eating their lunch.
Sakura was first up. She asked Syaoran 'Truth or Dare'. He replied 'Dare'. She dared him to take off his shirt in front of everyone at the restaurant. Being dared and challenged, Syaoran did it. He was left very red. Nakuru had this filmed. Syaoran managed to dare Eriol to do the same. Eriol did it as well, revealing a rather finely masculine and toned body. Eriol however, did not blush at all but Tomoyo did, for some bizarre reason.
Eriol asked Sakura how far have she gone with Syaoran and this caused major embarrassment to the couple. They refused to tell, but was forced by both Eriol and Tomoyo. Then, Sakura admitted that they have had sex with a very bright red face. Syaoran was equally as red. Nakuru even had this confession filmed.
"Tomoyo-chan, truth or dare?" Sakura asked.
"Dare", Tomoyo answered.
"Ok, I dare you to give Eriol a kiss", Sakura said.
Tomoyo stopped smiling. Eriol looked at her and she looked at him. Shyly, she gave him a small peck at the cheek. Sakura frowned and said that it was supposed to be a full on kiss on the lips. Tomoyo was forced and she blushed harder. She turned to him and looked into his eyes. He did not protest. It wasn't the first time that they have kissed, what was the problem? Was there a problem?
She leaned forward and gave him a kiss on the lips. Lips touched and feelings began to emerge. The moment their lips touched, the addiction began. Tomoyo was first to move her lips. She kissed his lower lip and he replied the similar motion. Eyes were closed. They didn't feel anyone else was there besides them. That was when they were disturbed.
"Kawaii!!!!!!!!!" Sakura squealed.
The two broke apart immediately and turned away. They blushed deep red. This time both Syaoran and Sakura had the upper hand of disturbing them. They continued the game and nothing harmless came out of that except for a few emerging feelings. Noticeable or not, that's for them to know.
After lunch, the group went for another round of shopping. They stopped by many different shops and even managed to stop by at a photo shop where they took instant personalized portraits of themselves. They managed to dress up and take a picture of it. The guys went for the high class suit while the girls chose the dresses, of course.
The photographer who took their pictures said that each one of them had very photogenic looks and were very lucky to have high features. The poses were very simple. The group one was of all of them together. Nakuru was sitting in front holding the two guardians while Syaoran, Sakura, Tomoyo and Eriol were standing behind her.
"Now, you four at the back. Guys hold the girls around their waist and girls put your hands on top of theirs", the photographer said.
Syaoran and Sakura did it without a sweat but Eriol and Tomoyo were a bit hesitant. They were both blushing at it. The photographer however was not very patient. He mumbled something to himself and frowned at the two. Reluctantly, Eriol put his arms around Tomoyo's waist, imitating Syaoran's pose. Tomoyo leaned against his chest and placed her on hands on top of his.
The photographer raised his thumb up and clicks the flash button. The whole group smile with the camera. Then, there were several other pictures taken. Each of the pictures had Tomoyo in it. There was even a personalized picture of her and Eriol in a very enchanting and yet, comfortable pose. Eriol draped his arm on Tomoyo's shoulder and the both of them smiled at the camera.
In about two hours time, all the pictures were developed and it turned out really good. Sakura and Nakuru couldn't stop squealing. They couldn't even stop teasing Tomoyo about how good she looked in the pictures. Usually, this happened to Sakura but now, Tomoyo was in the spotlight. It was something that she wasn't very familiar with.
After the photo shoot session, Nakuru dragged the group to have another round of walking again. This time, Nakuru was very entranced on jewelry. She saw several kinds of necklaces and was pretty interested in getting them. The group followed her wishes of course, and went in with her.
Sakura and Syaoran were looking at rings while Eriol and Tomoyo were just browsing along somewhere else. Nakuru bought a couple of silver necklaces for a real good price while Syaoran bought Sakura a silver emerald ring. Tomoyo squealed and teased the two.
"Thinking of engagement already, Syaoran-kun?" Tomoyo teased.
The couple blushed and turned around again. Tomoyo had a look at the collections of rings that were there. A wide variety of diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and opals were laid out in the glass display. Tomoyo had a tender spot for both Sapphires and amethyst. She liked them both. That was when she spotted a sapphire ring. It was of a brilliant cut. It was simple and yet, it attracted her. She liked the style of it, plain and simple. For some reason, the moment she saw it, it reminded her of Eriol.
Eriol had noticed her interest in the ring as well. He saw the price of the ring, it was quite reasonable for sapphire ring of that size. He made a quick change of mind and left with the rest of the crowd towards another store. He knew that Tomoyo was still thinking of the ring because of her concentration on thoughts. He wondered why.
~*~
Knock! Knock!
The sound of someone outside her door brought a sense of disturbance to her. Tomoyo called the person in. Eriol was not there with her that day. He said he'll drop by later in the evening. Tomoyo felt a bit lonely. She was just in her room, thinking when someone had come and knock on her door.
"Come in", she said.
The person came in and greeted Tomoyo. It was Nakuru and she had Spinel Sun with her. Tomoyo was surprised, nonetheless. She was even more surprised when she saw Yukito with them. She greeted the three with a smile. The three closed the door and locked it, wanting to have privacy with Tomoyo.
"Kobanwa Tomoyo-sama", Spinel Sun and Nakuru greeted.
"Kobanwa Tomoyo-chan", Yukito said.
"Kobanwa. To what honour do I have to have the company of the three of you?" Tomoyo asked.
The three laughed along with her. Tomoyo left a smile.
"Actually, the three of us are here to talk to you about something", Nakuru said.
"Let me change to my other half, he says he needs to talk to you", Yukito said.
Instantly, Yue emerged from Yukito's body. Tomoyo was intrigued. When Yue was done, the three guardians seemed more prepared. Tomoyo wondered what exactly did they wanted to talk about.
"So, tell me. Why are the three of you here?" Tomoyo asked.
"We have come to tell you that we sympathized your situation right now, Tomoyo-sama. We come to offer you comfort as we sense your despair", Spinel Sun said.
"The three of you can sense me?" she asked, bewildered.
"Yes, we can all sense you", Nakuru said, softly.
"How is it possible? I am not your master and I do not have a magical background", Tomoyo said.
"The bond that we share with you is as strong as the ones that we share with out masters. You have showered us with the same feelings and emotions as they have. You treat us as an equal to you. For that, we are eternally in your debt of kindness", Yue said.
"A bond? We all share a bond?" Tomoyo asked.
The three nodded their heads. Tomoyo felt astonished. She also felt saddened. She had tried as far as possible to just forget about death for once but everyone was making her feel so precious and it was making it hard for her. With the three guardians here, telling her this. She felt even more burdened. It was just like what Eriol and Sakura was doing to her. They made her feel wanted. They made her feel that her death was not as easy as it seems. They made her feel loved.
"We can also sense your fear for your feelings, Tomoyo-sama", Spinel Sun said.
"My fear of my feelings?" Tomoyo asked.
She looked at the three. Had they been reading her mind? The first word that came to her mind was Eriol. The first image to appear in her head was Eriol. The first voice she heard in her head was also Eriol. She walked towards her balcony and looked out sadly.
"You do have feelings for Eriol-sama, don't you?" Nakuru asked.
Tomoyo nodded her head.
"Then, why do you not accept him? Why do you leave him to torment himself with these unreturned feelings of yours?" Spinel Sun asked.
Tomoyo went silent. She just looked out of the mirror. A single tear fell down her cheek. The three noticed it and had felt sorry for her.
"The reason why I wish not to accept his feelings is because I feel that it is a selfish act. I do not want him to stay attached to the memory of me and not move on. Spinel Sun, Nakuru, Yue, Eriol cannot love me. I have rejected him before and thought that he would have given up but he did not", she said.
Another teardrop fell down her cheeks and hit the ground.
"That night that I shared with him in the mansion when I told him of my illness. I felt so scared and I felt so unprotected when I told him. I felt vulnerable. He turned it around and comforted me that night. I accepted his love that night and thought I could handled it but he showed me that he refused to erase me from his mind. My death will torture him. It will always follow him like a shadow if he does not keep his feelings away from me", Tomoyo said.
This time, Nakuru shed a tear as well.
"You have already accepted your death? Your fate?" Yue asked.
"As much as I would love to wish for a longer life, I will not. I have accepted death and I do welcome my fate with a pair of open arms and an open heart", Tomoyo said.
"But what is to become to your feelings for Eriol-sama? Don't you feel hurt at all? Don't you feel a single pain in you when you reject him and see him the way he is? Isn't that even more torturing to him?" Spinel Sun asked.
Tomoyo stopped dead track. Tears were already falling down her cheeks. She was trying to be strong but she just couldn't. She fell down on her knees and broke down. Instantly, the three guardians came to her side and comforted her. Yue wrapped his arms around the girl and gave her a sense of comfort.
"It is the hardest thing for me to do. For me to look him in the eye and tell him that I cannot return his feelings broke me more than it did to him. I was afraid at that time and I still am now. I am afraid what will come to him and me. I do not want him to feel like he has no more life without me in it", she said, crying tears of sadness.
The three gave her a break. Tomoyo cried on Yue's chest. She had been crying so much lately. She had let out all her emotions almost everyday. It had been a repeating motion. Every night that she had been alone, she cried, thinking about death.
It had scared her more now that it was already the second last week of November. She had started to feel weak. She had already started to feel her lungs weakening. The pain on her chest was beginning to feel unbearable. She knew that slowly, her life was being drained out of her and soon, she will no longer be alive.
~*~
The sky outside was dark.
The dark blue horizon had taken over the light of the day.
The streets of Tomoeda were bright as it was the Festival of Lights.
Every year, Tomoeda would celebrate this occasion. Every year, Tomoyo would celebrate this occasion with her friends. This year, it was to be her last. Like every year, Sakura and her would go to the Tsukimine Shrine on top of the hill, where Kaho Mizuki or Mizuki-sensei used to work. Her father was the owner of the place and she had went there to help during Sakura's first time capturing the Clow cards of course.
Tonight, she was going to be joined by her other friends which were Takeshi Yamazaki, Chiharu Mihara, Reika Sasaki and Naoko Yanagisawa. Of course, Sakura, Syaoran and Eriol were to join as well. By tradition, the girls should wear the kimono and the guys should wear the equivalent of it.
Tomoyo wore a gorgeous looking kimono. It was a light mixed color of purple and pink with silver streaming. It fitted her nicely and brought out the nice contrast with her eyes as well. Her hair was nicely done up into a complicated messy bun with a few strands curled, hanging down her face, creating a framing effect.
She took quite some time to dress up so nicely. After all, tonight was the night of celebrations. As she looked in the mirror for the effect, she had to say that it was nicely done although her skin was pale as ever. It was far too pale to be called fair. She had a bit of foundation and powder on just to make her face glow. To finish it up, she applied a bit of lip gloss on her lips.
Her driver drove her straight to the footsteps of the shrine where some of her friends were already there. Reika, Yamazaki, Naoko, Chiharu and Eriol were already there and they were talking. Tomoyo got out of the car and went to them. Her friends greeted her with a nice compliment of her looks. Eriol showered her with the most compliments which caused her to blush.
"You look enchanting, Tomoyo-chan", Eriol said.
"You don't look so bad yourself, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said.
It was true. Eriol was not wearing the traditional outfit but he was wearing a very nice outfit. He wore a dark navy blue turtleneck sweater with a simple coat to keep him warm and black jeans. He looked dashing. He had on a very simple outfit but it did bring out a sense of style to his features. His smile again was very charming and warm.
"Did you know that back then, the people of Tomoeda used to dress up like ghost during the festival of lights to scare away the light ghosts?" Yamazaki said.
"Yamazaki!!!!!!" Chiharu yelled.
"Oh, and that the light ghosts only wants the virgin women. They tend to possessed the men to seduced the women into their house and still the women's virginity", Eriol continued on.
By that time, all the girls were blushing madly and were rather scared. Chiharu had her hands strangling Yamazaki's neck. It was a rather hilarious sight. Tomoyo blushed at Eriol's continuation and looked away. Then, a familiar voice was heard.
"HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!"
It was Sakura; she was running with Syaoran by her side. They ran towards the group, panting. The group was grinning at the couple at why they were late. Tomoyo decided to taunt the two.
"The light ghost didn't possess Li-kun to get your virginity, did it, Sakura-chan? Is that why you are late?" Tomoyo asked.
"Nani?" Sakura asked.
When she got it, she blushed into a deep crimson color of red. The group then went and looked around at the many different games that had been opened. The festival had many lights and was very well done. There were games, there were hawkers and there were so many other activities to do.
Together, as a group, they went around, enjoying themselves. However, the two couples that were in the group were showing close affections to each other. Yamazaki and Chiharu were holding hands and smiling at each other. Sakura was holding Syaoran's arm as they walk.
The guys had a wild competition when they came to the teddy bear stands. All three guys had their guns loaded and began to shoot their target. They all had perfect aim and perfect shots. The teddy bears were being loaded to the table.
Yamazaki's pile was for Chiharu, Syaoran's pile was for Sakura and Eriol's pile was for the all three of the girls, Reika, Naoko and Tomoyo so that they did not feel left out. Reika and Naoko thanked Eriol. Of course, the largest teddy bear went to Tomoyo. She blushed and quietly thanked him for getting it for her.
Then somehow, the group broke and most of them had wandered off by themselves. Eriol got stuck with Tomoyo, no surprise there. He was with her at every moment. He had helped her get a gold fish and he had also watched her get hoops on the target to get a plushy toy. She liked his company because he didn't make her feel pressured. He did not push her or made her feel awkward that so many things have been happening lately.
Eriol suggested that they took a walk around the lake. Tomoyo agreed. The two walked on in silence. Both having thoughts in their head. It was the solitude that brought comfort to both of them and to solitude, they shall return it to. It was somehow, relaxing.
For two weeks, Tomoyo have been watching Eriol and she had felt so much for him. She had to keep herself away from feeling attached to him. Yes, she loved him but she just couldn't have him feel that way for her, not at a time like this. Not when he knew that he was going to lose her.
She was already counting down the days. It was already the first week of December. The chill and the wind were showing that the bitter winter was coming. Her heart was also beating slower than before. She could feel it coming and she was starting to grow scared. With all that everyone had done for her, she felt like someone stabbing her heart. It was a damage done to her. All her vows for attachments had failed. She now feared leaving them and she feared death.
Eriol had noticed the aura in the girl weakening, day by day. He knew that she was trying to hide everything. He knew her tricks. Eriol had also been watching her everyday and every night whether he was by her side or not. He had been observing how her breathing was suddenly no longer in rhythm at night and how she was having a hard time running. He noticed almost the slightest difference in her. He knew that it was coming and he could feel her fear.
"Eriol-kun?" she said, quietly.
"Nani?" Eriol asked.
"Daijoubu desu ka?" she asked.
"Daijoubu da yo", he answered.
"You seem to have drifted off", Tomoyo said, softly.
"Gomen ne", he said.
"It's alright", she said.
Again, silence. They both looked into the water and saw each other. Then, Eriol realized something. He had something to give to Tomoyo. He reached out into the pocket and grabbed it.
"Tomoyo, I have something to give to you", Eriol said.
"You do?" Tomoyo asked.
Eriol held out a small velvet box in his hand. Tomoyo was astonished, she blinked. She reached out for the box, opened it and her mouth dropped. Inside the box was the ring that she had eyed that day when they were in the city. She looked at Eriol.
"I thought you might liked it, so I bought it", Eriol said.
"Eriol-kun..... I cannot accept this. This is too much", Tomoyo said
She gave the box back to him. He shook her head and gently placed it back into her hand. She looked at him. She didn't know what to say. Then, he took the ring out and placed in on her middle finger.
"Take it as a ring of friendship, from me to you", Eriol said.
She didn't know what to say. She saw the ring sparkle under the moonlight. She looked at it and then she looked at Eriol. He had bought her the ring that she was eyeing at the other day. It was a gift from him to her. She was astounded. Then, he brought her hand to his lips and kissed it.
"That could not have meant friendship, Eriol-kun", Tomoyo said, teasing him.
"It might not have meant friendship, for all you know", Eriol said.
He closed in to her. She felt breathless. Again, he had did this to her. This time, she did not push him away. She let him close in to her. She let him wrapped his arms around her waist. She wanted him to do so. She closed her eyes and let him hold her. He was a bit surprised but he offered her comfort.
He turned her around and looked deeply into her eyes. She gazed back at him. She was so lost, she was vulnerable, and she was everything but fine. She felt his grip around her tightened. He smiled softly at her before leaning down and placing his lips on hers into a soft gentle kiss. Her eyes fluttered close as she felt his lips on hers.
It was a soft, gentle and sweet one. She felt a tear forming and falling down her cheek. She felt saved by him. His lips were kissing hers and making her feel things that she couldn't explain. The moment his tongue licked her lips, begging for entrance. She let him in. Not only physically but mentally as well.
The moment lasted for quite sometime. Then, they broke apart for air. He looked at her and she looked back at him. She smiled, signifying that she did accept him and that she allowed him to share her moments with her. He smiled down at the raven angel he was holding in his arms.
"I love you, Tomoyo", he whispered into her ears.
"I..... Love......."
She felt weak. Just before she could say it, she fell on Eriol. She just felt like all the energy she had just went out of her body. Eriol caught her before she could fall. He started to worry.
~*~
"Tomoyo, I'm taking you to the hospital", he said.
"No! I don't want to. I want to go home", she said, weakly.
That was when she felt her chest tightened. Her eyes widened at the sudden impact of pain that had struck her chest. Her grip on Eriol's shirt tightened as her other hand clutched her heart. She was having a hard time breathing and she was coughing as well. The moment she started coughing, blood spilled. She kept coughing and she couldn't stop herself. Eriol held her in his arms, not knowing what to do.
He watched as she coughed blood out to his shirt. He couldn't believe what was happening. On moment, she had accepted him and the other minute; she was coughing for her life. Her eyes widened and it was a horrific sight. She was coughing and blood was spilling everywhere.
"Eriol-kun... Help me... I do not want to go to the hospital", she begged him.
Eriol was left with a hard choice. Immediately, he sent distressed signals to Sakura and Syaoran before transporting Tomoyo and himself to the hospital despite her wishes. There, the doctor was alerted immediately. Eriol carried her to the bed and the nurses dealt with her from then. He followed them as they entered the emergency room.
His mind was so confused. His energy went through her but it did not manage to calm her down like it had used to. He held Tomoyo's hand as she was rushed into the room. They fused around with Tomoyo and made Eriol leave the room. He left, reluctant. Now he was scared. He was scared for her. He didn't want to think that she was going to go. He prayed that she will be alright. He punched the wall in frustration.
"Eriol-kun!" Sakura's voice was heard.
He turned around to see Sakura, Syaoran and Sonomi running towards him.
"What happened?" Sonomi asked.
"We were talking and she just started coughing blood. I brought her back here. She said she didn't want to go to the hospital", Eriol said.
"How is she right now?" Sakura asked.
"I don't know.. I don't know..." Eriol said, shaking his head.
Syaoran held Sakura. She had her hands over her mouth. She didn't know what else to do. Sonomi was quiet on her own. Eriol was just frustrated. He slumped down and just sat there, head on knees and arms wrapped around his legs. They stayed like that for a while and kept their heads on the light which flashed 'Emergency room'.
After about two hours, the doctors came out of the emergency room. Immediately, all four of them went up to him, asking him about Tomoyo's condition. He looked down and told them what they had to know.
"I'm sorry but we can't do anything for her anymore. Her lungs are just too damaged. I'm afraid that you will have to prepare yourselves for her", he said.
The four was left in sadness. Sakura and Sonomi cried. Eriol was heartbroken. It was unfair. She had just told him that she had accepted him. She had just fully accepted him to her heart. Tears started streaming down his cheek as he punched the wall. He was frustrated and he was sad. This wasn't supposed to happen. This was all wrong. He wiped away his tears and faced the others.
"This should not have happened", Eriol said, frustrated.
The others looked at him.
"This shouldn't be happening! Not now...."Eriol said.
Hot tears poured by a few droplets, one by one. He slumped on the wall again, collapsing and leaning towards the wall. His head fell on his knees as he cried. He was about to lose the one girl who made his life complete. It hurts. He did not prepare himself for it. He cried out on his hearts contents.
After a while, he stood up and faced the others.
"Let's bring Tomoyo back to the mansion. It is her wish that she doesn't die in the hospital", Eriol said, wiping away his tears.
The others looked at him and nodded.
~*~
It was unfair how everything was supposed to be fine but it wasn't.
It was unfair how she was just supposed to go like that.
It was unfair how life was so complicated.
It was also unfair how it was just hard to let go.
Tomoyo was transported back to the Daidouji residence, to her own room. Sakura, Syaoran, Sonomi, Touya, Fujitaka, Nakuru, Spinel Sun, Nakuru, Yukito and Kero were there along with Eriol. They were all standing by the back of the walls while Sakura and Eriol sat just on Tomoyo's sides.
The raven girl was breathing in a very slow rhythm, signifying that anytime, she could just stop breathing. Her eyes closed, in a rather deep sleep. Her body looked lifeless, as if all energy has been sucked out. She looked weak and extremely pale. It was a sight of sadness for those who knew her and for those who were watching her.
Sobs and sniffs were heard in the room, mostly coming from Sonomi, Nakuru and Sakura. Tears fell to the ground, not drying. Content faces all looking miserable at the raven girl who is about to give up her life, once and for all. The girl that they had all knew and loved.
The moment she stirred and opened her eyes, everyone was beginning to feel a bit happy but it changed to sad, in a split second. Tomoyo had her eyes set on everyone who was in her room. She saw the tears coming down from her own mother, Sakura and Nakuru. She noticed tear stains on Eriol's cheeks despite the dim lights in the room. She felt weak. She knew what was coming to her.
The first person that she reached out to was her mother. She called her to her and told her how much she loved her and that she should always know that she is there with her. The second person was Touya. She thanked him for being there as a brother to her and told him to take care of Yukito- san. Then, she thanked Fujitaka for his constant hospitality that he provided whenever she was with them.
"Li-kun, I have always envied how you managed to steal Sakura's heart when back then I was in love with her. I had hated you once but the moment you came back and I saw Sakura's eyes, I think that you deserved her more than anyone else. You have been the best of friends so far and I want to thank you for that", Tomoyo said, weakly.
"Daidouji-san, I have never thank you for getting me and Sakura together, despite your own feelings for her. I guess now would be the right time. You have been the greatest female friend I have besides Meiling and I would just like to thank you for that. I am forever in your debt", Syaoran said.
She smiled, weakly at him and he returned the favor. He leaned in, kissed her on the forehead and stepped back. Tomoyo looked up at Sakura. Sakura was crying and it broke Tomoyo's heart. She held back the tears; she didn't want anymore tears to fall. She reached out for Sakura's hand and held it. Sakura looked at her and shook her head.
"You cannot leave me here like this, Tomoyo-chan. You cannot leave me", Sakura wailed.
"I'm sorry, Sakura", Tomoyo said.
"You cannot leave me, I'll never be able to move on without you", Sakura cried.
"You can.... I'm not your only friend, Sakura. You have so many others. You will survive and you will move on but promise me something", Tomoyo said.
"What? Anything, just don't leave me. Please.. don't leave like this", Sakura cried.
"Promise me that you will always remember me and that you will always smile", Tomoyo said.
Sakura cried harder and buried her head on Tomoyo's chest. She nodded her head but she cried harder. Her tears soaked Tomoyo's shirt and made Tomoyo feel even sadder. It was so hard to let go with everyone like this. She looked at Eriol, who was looking at her with more than just love in his eyes.
*Thoughts 7: I have been granted my wish but why does my heart not feel content? -Eriol Hiragizawa*
Eriol held her other hand when he saw her reaching out to him. Sakura stepped back and went into Syaoran's arms. Everyone left the room, for the two to be alone. They were all saddened with grief, by the fact that the raven beauty was going to leave for life. They wanted Eriol, the one who suffered the most to spend her last moments with her.
The moment everyone left, Tomoyo looked at Eriol in the eyes. He smiled at her, giving her a comfort and a bit of assurance that things will be alright. She believed him of course despite the fact that she was going to go. He held her hand and kissed her knuckles. The sapphire ring still stayed on her finger.
"Eriol-kun... Take me to the window, I want to see the stars", Tomoyo requested.
Eriol obeyed her wish. He gently picked her up in his arms and brought her to the bay window where there was a chair. He sat on it and held her with her sitting on his lap, leaning against him. He could feel her aura weakening and dropping at a very quick pace.
"That's Polaris, isn't it?" Tomoyo asked.
Eriol nodded.
Polaris was another name for the Northern Star. It was also known as heaven to some people. It was a place of pure serenity and solace. It was a place where people who have settled everything on earth would go to when their time has come and if a shooting star shoots from Polaris, it means that someone is chosen to join the stars.
People usually make a wish when they see a shooting star. Like the other night, Eriol made a wish and it had come true. He felt a loss in his heart. He was holding her in his arms, waiting for her life to end to her last breath.
She watched the sky and felt Eriol's warmth, despite the sudden chill that she was getting. She felt his arms wrapped around her, tightened. She felt the comfort that he was giving her. He kissed her temple several times.
"Eriol-kun...." she started.
"Ssh... Don't speak, let's just enjoy this, alright?" he whispered into her ears.
"Eriol... I want to say something", she said.
He let her continue, turning her to let her face him.
"I want you to make a promise to me. I want you to promise me that you will forget me and erase me from your heart. I want you to move on", she said.
"I don't think I can", Eriol said, shaking his head.
"You must, for me. Please Eriol, promise me", she said, her breathe caught in her throat.
Tomoyo was looking at him with pleading eyes. Tears were forming and were about to fall but he could tell that she was trying to be strong for herself. She wanted him to promise her the impossible. It was her last wish and she had wanted it to be done. Eriol looked at her, trying not to cry as well. Hot tears stung from behind his eyes, waiting to trickle down his cheeks.
"Eriol-kun.. please.. "She pleaded.
"I promise", he said, reluctantly.
She smiled at him and looked at the stars again. She stared up at the sky, awaiting unconsciousness to overtake her. She felt Eriol's nose nuzzling her hair. She had felt content but she still wanted to tell him how she really felt before she went. She turned to him again and gave him a final kiss.
He felt her lips on his for a short moment just before she took her last breathe and fell limp on him. Her eyes closed and her lips curved in a smile. A single tear fell down from her eyes to her cheek.
For a moment, he stared into the sky and holding the lifeless body of his most beloved. A shooting star came shooting in the skies. It was from Polaris. It had claimed her life. Tears trickled down his cheek as he continued holding Tomoyo in his arms.
"Tonight, I wish to make another wish. I wish that she would know that I will love her always and forevermore", he whispered, directing it to the skies as the star shot over it.
His face had no expression. He had felt only sadness. He felt the most painful lost that he could ever feel. He had lost her far too early. He was not prepared for it but she had gone and he had made a promise that he could never keep.
*Thoughts 8: The shooting star has come from the North. That is the pure porcelain tears of Polaris. The heavens are crying for the one that they had claim the life from. They shed a tear for the one that they have come to chose and the life that they claimed was hers. -Eriol Hiragizawa*
Tomoyo Daidouji had died on the 3rd of December 2002. She was loved by many and cared by many. This was her story of the last moments that she had with her loved ones. She died peacefully and happily in the arms of Eriol Hiragizawa, her beloved one. She died at precisely 11pm at night when the shooting star from Polaris had shot over the skies. She had secretly made 2 wishes that night.
Dear Polaris,
I wish to make two wishes.
One, I wish that everyone that I love will always remember how much I love them.
And my second wish.....
I wish that some day....
I would be able to return to them again....
*The end*
A/n: That is it! I've finished it. I hope that you enjoyed it and don't forget to review!