Love Conquers All
Chapter 3
Tomoyo enjoyed her long nap. She slept all day and into her second evening. However, she was not happy once she turned on the TV.
"How could this happen?" Tomoyo asked.
She had turned to the Japanese network, where they were showing "Action!", Japan's own entertainment news.
"Tatsuo Mikado had publicly split from girlfriend, Daidouji Tomoyo," the announcer said. Images of them flashed across the screen. "So far, Daidouji's publicist remains silent but Tatsuo's said…"
"Can he do that?" Tomoyo asked. "He broke up with me on TV."
"I know," Riko's voice said through the cell phone. "And he said it on an interview, without either his agent's permission or mine. I'm kind of worried. Now everyone will think of you as 'Mikado's ex.'"
"I hope that doesn't happen," Tomoyo took a deep breath. "Oh dear…you know what? I'll just go now, ok?"
"Tomoyo, try to enjoy your vacation."
"Of course! That little punk won't ruin this for me. Bye," Tomoyo hung up. Enjoy her vacation? How? Tomoyo took a deep breath. How could she enjoy herself when her career could be in jeopardy? Tomoyo had always been associated with Mikado; that helped her popularity. She grabbed her key and headed downstairs to the restaurant.
She flopped onto an available bar stool. Tomoyo, along the bartender and 5 other people, were the only ones in that restaurant. "What room Miss?"
"Room 323. What's the strongest thing you have?" she asked.
"Vodka, rum, scotch…"
Tomoyo stared down at the counter. "Vodka."
The bartender nodded. He pulled out a small glass and a small bottle filled with a clear drink. He poured her ½ a glass. She took it and downed the whole serving. He lifted an eyebrow, and then poured her another ½ glass. "Easy," he told her, "this stuff isn't water."
She downed the glass, and then took the bottle. She began to drink directly from it. "Tell me," she began, "what would you do if your life is-is-ba-depended on an arrogant man who in-in-thrives on making your life miserable?" she stammered.
The bartender shrugged. "I don't know, Miss. Maybe find a new life?"
"HAH!" she belted. She took a swig from the bottle and felt the drink's effect on her. Her face turned warm and her senses began to dull.
It was late in the evening when Eriol walked into the lobby. He passed by the restaurant and noticed Tomoyo. She was awake…more or less. Her head was facedown on the bar's counter. He immediately stepped inside and to her side. "Daidouji," he called her.
She turned her face towards him, head still upon the counter. "Ah…Hiiragizawa," she said. Her speech was slow and her eyes were glazed. "How are you?"
"I'm fine. What about you?"
"Never--." She jumped to her feet but immediately turned into a puddle on the floor. "—better."
Eriol turned to the bartender. "What did she have?"
"About 3 bottles of vodka," he answered.
"Can't take liquor, can you?" Eriol said, looking down at her.
"The floor is really shiny…" Tomoyo muttered. "What is this, wood?"
Eriol sighed. "I'll take you to your room." He lifted her up in his arms and took her to the elevator.
"More!" she exclaimed. "I'm thirsty!"
"You don't need anymore," Eriol elbowed the number 3 button on the elevator. Inside with them was an elderly Caucasian couple. Eriol innocently smiled at them as he noticed them glancing at the two.
Tomoyo's glassy stare turned to them. "What the hell are you staring at?!" she burst.
The old couple quickly turned away and ran out at the 2nd floor.
When the elevator opened to the 3rd floor, Eriol walked out, and then placed her gently on her feet, still holding her close. He stuck the key in and opened the door. He walked her in and closed the door behind him. Still holding her against him, he turned on the lights.
"Has anyone told me how gorgeous you are?" Tomoyo muttered.
He looked at her. "I beg your pardon?"
She slowly pulled his glasses off and placed them in his shirt pocket. "Your eyes…they're beautiful…" she muttered, her face moving closer to his. "I could swim in them forever."
Eriol felt her muscles relax. He lifted her in his arms and carried her to the bed. He gently placed her down. He pulled the covers over her, tucking her in. "Sleep now, Daidouji."
"Wait!" she called out. She quickly crawled out of bed and tried to stand. Her legs gave way and she feel. "I…need…" she began, her knees and palms on the floor.
Eriol stepped to her side and helped her up. "Daidouji, don't stand--."
"I…need…you…" Tomoyo weaved her arms around him and lost their balance, causing them to fall onto the bed.
Eriol's cheeks flamed. "What are you…?"
"Stay…" she muttered. "Sing to me…" she requested.
" 'Sing'?" he said. "I can't…" he tried to pull away but her grip was tight on him. He sighed in defeat.
Who know what tomorrow brings
In a world where few hearts survive
All I know is the way I feel
When it's real I keep it alive
The road is long
There are mountains in the way
She placed her head against his chest as he softly sang and stroked her hair.
Love lifts us up where we belong
Where the eagles fly on a mountain high
Love lifts us up where we belongFar from the world we know
Where the clear winds blow…
…to be continued ^_^
Author's jibberish: Disclaimer alert! Song is called "Up Where We Belong" by Joe Cocker.