A new beginning - chapter 6
"Balancing more tasks"
Coco cookie: I absolutely hate the title I give my stories - like corny. Still I can't think of anything else and overall, the title does show what the chapter's about. Okay so I'm stretching da truth - it doesn't really seem to represent anything at all.
Isn't it such a drag when you're 12? You're just one year off being a true teenager - sigh. Life can be so unfair . . . Oh well, right now I'm at least 12 ½ - I'll be 13 in about half a year.
Key: words in braces are thoughts and da starry things indicate a new setting.
* * * * *
"Oh you wouldn't believe who I saw in the office today!"
"You mean the new cutie?"
"You saw him too?"
"If you think he's gorgeous, wait till you see the other guy."
"Woah! What's he like?"
"Total hunk man - a total hunk."
"Does he have such funky, blue hair too?"
"Nah - he's a chestnut brown. But he looks so sexy!"
"Even better then Asumi?"
"Dunno - they're both just too gorgeous for words."
Eroil flipped back the bind. Looking over to Syaoran who sat next to him in the office, he said with a grin, "Hear that? The local girls are talking about us again."
"I know, " Syaoran scowled. "Their yappy voices make my ears sore."
Immediately a wide grin spread up Eroil's face. "I never hear you complaining about Sakura's voice," he said slyly. Seeing that Syaoran pretended not to hear, he leaned closer to him. "Well?"
Suddenly the principle came back into the room. Smiling warmly at the boys, he handed them a sheet of paper. "Your class from now will be 10B. It's along that section of the school - you shouldn't miss it."
* * * * *
Glancing anxiously at the clock, Sakura sighed. [How long till they come? I can't wait!] Everyone in the class was working busily but no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn't do it. Glancing down at the japanese passage she was to read, she could only feel her mind wandering away. [Please be here already!] she prayed as she again fidgeted in her seat.
Then suddenly she felt something - two auras that were coming her way. One was stubborn and proud, with incredible strength and knowledge. His power was well taught and trained; every stand of magic was fine and solid. Closing her eyes as she reached out to recognise it, she could see the colour was green.
The other one was more carefree and she could she it as a blue colour in her mind. It was also very powerful and brimming with mischievous ideas. The magic was wise and seemed to have viewed and experienced a lot, though it was kept deep down - never actually used until needed.
The auras became stronger but they moved no further and stopped right outside the classroom door. Suddenly a loud knock was made.
~ Meanwhile from the other side . . . ~
"Why the hell did you have to knock so loudly?" Syaoran hissed.
Eroil looked down at his hand with the usual happy smile. "Opps. Guess my knuckles are a lot harder then I thought they were."
"Yeah and I guess that counts your head too," Syaoran remarked sarcastically.
"Really?" Eroil asked, faking a surprised act. "No wonder I never got brain damage after all those injuries you gave me."
Syaoran: +_+
~ Now back to the classroom . . . ~
"Class, today we have two new students from China. Please be welcoming to your new classmates. The first is Hira . . . (sorrie - can't spell), Eroil."
At this the teacher paused, waiting for him to come in and receive the usual polite welcome. For a moment there was silence as everyone stared expectantly at the door. "I said, " repeated the sensei more loudly as he also cleared his throat, "will Hira . . ., Eroil please come in."
Finally the door slid open and a blue-haired boy came in. Bowing to the class and the sensei, he apologised for his late arrival. Sakura stared at him puzzled - he seemed rather, well, like as if he was in a fight. His tie needed straightening, his shirt was quite crinkled - and the glasses on his nose were hanging on from only one ear.
"You may take the seat in front of Miss Daidouji," the teacher said. At this, Tomoyo raised her hand so that he could see - Eroil grinned. Although he looked absolutely terrible - and even felt that way, he still smiled like he had no care in the world.
Immediately some girls began giggling and the word 'kawaii' spread around the class.
"Now," the sensei continued, " we have the student Li, Syaoran. "
Walking in casually, Syaoran just stared around at the class with his emotionless and yet alluring glance. Everyone felt completely speechless - wondering whom this new muscular, sexy guy was.
Sakura stared at him wide-eyed. He looked so handsome in their uniform - [Maybe even better then Asumi does]. To her annoyance, she realised most girls thought that too - they were totally swooning over him. "Mr Li, you can take the seat behind Miss Kinomoto." Hearing does words, Sakura hurriedly raised her arm so he knew where she was.
When their eyes met, she smiled warmly at him - but his only reply was a silent look at her. With that, he seated himself down and laid out his books.
[He's so totally different from what he was yesterday] Sakura thought disappointed. Without turning around, she could imagine him flipping to the right page in their textbook, and doing the activities that were laid out. [He hasn't even shown any feelings or even the slightest memory of what happened last night.] Nibbling on the end of her pen, Sakura sighed. [And he hasn't even said hi either]
"Hey your name is Li right?" (Sakura bolted up right at the familiar voice - Mirano!)
"Yeah."
Practically dragging her desk next to his, Mirano purred. "Welcome Li - or shall I call you Syaoran?" (Unable to hold back her jealousy, Sakura turned around in her chair to watch them.)
Syaoran shrugged. "Don't care."
Smiling flirtatiously at him, Mirano replied, "Then I'll call you Syaoran okay? It's a lot cuter - which fits you perfectly." (GRRRR . . . Sakura couldn't believe what she was hearing. [Yeah cuter - that's what you're doing when you're around him])
"Whatever." Syaoran shrugged again - girls were always like this around him. Then as he looked around the room and saw the other girls that were watching, he realised there would be a lot more of that.
"Do you like pests?" Mirano suddenly asked as she batted her eyelashes at him.
"No."
Looking directly at Sakura with a smirk, she exclaimed, "Well there's one - and she's pushing her nose into our business." Immediately Sakura turned away, trying to ignore her flaming red face and begin concentrating on her japanese.
"Sakura, I think you may need to go over your japanese, " Asumi advised as he looked over her work. "I've never seen you have so many mistakes." Still he smiled teasingly at her.
"Asumi, " Sakura cried, "You're not making my day any easier!"
He laughed. "You're so cute when you're like that."
Sakura flushed at his compliment. "Um, thanks?"
* * * * *
"You know what Eroil? Is it just me or does Li-kun completely hide his feelings from Sakura? I've never seen him so distant - it's like no love ever happened between them."
"No it's not you. He believes he doesn't love Sakura anymore - he believes that's for the better. But he's just being foolish."
Tomoyo sighed. "I know. I just wish he would be true to his feelings - Sakura gets so hurt when he's like that. And you know what? She's too dense to think he may not like her anymore - she just probably thinks he's in a bad mood and that's why he's so cold to her."
Leaning back on his chair, Eroil replied, "Well one good thing is the fact that he still loves her - I'm sure of it."
Tomoyo nodded. "I've seen it too Eroil. The only problem is that he won't show it - he doesn't even believe he loves her."
Eroil smiled. "So we just have to make it more obvious for him."
"And how, Mr Mastermind, can we do that?"
Holding up three fingers, Eroil tickled the first one off. "Syaoran shows the fact that he truly loves someone when three things may happen. Number one - if another guy is getting Sakura's attention and making it possible that she may like him back in the future."
Tomoyo laughed as she glanced over to where Syaoran sat. He was totally ignoring everything Mirano was saying to him because his focus was totally on Asumi and Sakura. [Talk about being jealous and overprotective.] "Well the first job has been taken care of. And even if Asumi fails somehow, there are a whole grade of boys that all over Sakura."
"Well less jobs for us to take care of at least," Eroil commented. "Anyway, number 2. When Sakura gets in trouble or danger, he'll break his neck just to save her."
"Well that's all taken care too - any cards that may come along will sure cause some trouble. And usually Sakura's in it."
"Now finally number 3 - when Syaoran just simply gives over to his feelings. To help this one blossom in success, we just need to 'activate' his senses." Eroil smiled wickedly. "All the sort of stuff that makes Sakura irresistible is what will be needed - her beauty, her body and her charm."
Tomoyo laughed. "Isn't it so fun playing cupid?"
* * * * *
"Syaoran! You're not listening to me!"
[Fricken, fricken person. Fricken, fricken person.] Syaoran clenched his fist even harder. [So that's Asumi - the flirt who won't leave Sakura alone.] Sitting behind Sakura meant he got a perfect view of her - and Asumi's romeo acts. Suddenly they both got out of their seats and began walking toward the door. [Hey what's that about?]
"Syaoran!" Mirano screeched again. "You're not listening to me!"
Practically falling off his chair because of her scream, he managed to just cling onto the table. "Yeah what is it?"
"Get your bag, we've got to head off to our next period." Then pulling onto his arm impatiently, she said, "Hurry! Everyone's practically gone now."
"Okay, okay." Stuffing his books into his bag and slinging it around his shoulder, he allowed Mirano to lead him out the door. Just ahead he saw Sakura and Asumi - with Asumi pulling off his gentlemen acts again. He had her bag casually over his shoulder like the weight was nothing at all.
"Is he always like that?" Syaoran growled.
Sighing admiringly, Mirano nodded. "He's just so adorable!" Then snuggling even closer to him, she said, "Don't worry! You're just as handsome as Asumi is."
[If that's true] Syaoran thought [Then how come Sakura seems to like him better then me?]
* * * * *
"Hey Sakura!"
Tying the apron firmly around her waist, Sakura smiled. "Yeah Rika?" They were in the school kitchen room; food was their second period for the day.
"Have you seen Li-kun yet? Or Mirano? The teacher's calling their names on the roll."
Sakura's eyes widened. "There're not here?" [Out of all people, he just has to be with her. Mirano probably planned this - she was all over him today. Practically sitting on his lap during japanese class. I never had a chance to talk to him at all. ]
"Eh Sakura?"
"Hoe? Oh what?"
Rika replied, "Um, if you rip the apron, I don't think it'll help you during cooking."
Sakura glanced down at the scrunched material she held in her hands. She didn't know that all that time she was using it as her stress-reliever. Instantly she dropped it with a slight laugh. "Hee . . . hee . . . eh, just testing out the fabric - you never know how strong a thing can be until you, eh, tear it."
The door suddenly opened and both Syaoran and Mirano entered the room. Mirano, Sakura realised as she clenched her fists, had herself totally wrapped around Syaoran's arm. She was expecting some sort of cold, get-lost behavior from his as that would be what he would do to her - but it never happened. He just let her cling to him.
Waiting for the last two students to put on their aprons, the sensei said, "As you all know, there's a special romance happening between two of our most valuable teachers here. " Everyone cheered and applause filled the room.
"Hey what's this about?" Syaoran murmured over the racket.
"Starting from a few months ago, two teachers from this school fell in love," Sakura replied. Beating Mirano just in time, she managed to push herself next to him and answer his question. "It's the art sensei and our sports recreational teacher. They plain to get married in a few weeks or so and then leave the school to start a new life with each other."
"It's so romantic!" Tomoyo cut in as she joined the conversation. Her eyes formed stars as she said, "Just imagine! Two people fighting against all the hardships and courses that stand in their way to just reach each other. For they are each other's loved ones, they are each other's most treasured ones . . . " She paused as she stared meanifully at Syaoran. He frowned. [Great - there she goes again, looking at me like that with those annoying hints.]
"Anyway class, " the teacher continued, "as both teachers educate year 10 - in other words, you - and are leaving soon, the whole grade has decided to organise something special for them. " Smiling, he said, "Our class been chosen to prepare the food for the farewell. We are to make enough dinner to satisfy the stomachs of all the school staff and especially our school couple.
Anyway, you are to get into groups of around ten and make enough food to be fit for a complete feast. Remember to include appetisers, the main course, desserts - etc. Use your imagination and creativity and do the best you can." Seeing the amount of noise that was arising, he said," As you can see, this will be quite hard. So the larger groups you get into, the better - not too large though, all else this will cause problems." With those last words, he sat back down onto his seat and waited for them to start their groups and ideas.
Immediately all control broke loose - students ran everywhere, sorting and choosing friends to go with.
Grabbing Tomoyo and Asumi immediately, Sakura looked over at Syaoran. "Come on! We need to find another six people!"
"We? You mean we're together in the same group?"
Sakura smiled. "Ofcourse Syaoran! You're one of my best friends - why would I leave you out?"
He nodded slowly. [Best friends . . . you're one of my best friends.] Her words repeated in his mind like as if someone kept rewinding it. He watched silently as Sakura beckon to Eroil, Rika, Noako, Chiharu and Takashi to come over.
"We're short of one person but we'll be all right," Sakura said excitedly as she looked around at her group.
"Hey! Wherever Syaoran's going, I'm going!" Mirano suddenly clung onto him again.
"Um, okay . . . well the good part is that we've got a group of ten at least," Sakura said.
"Yeah and the bad part is that our 10th person is her," Chiharu muttered.
* * * * *
Sitting in a tight circle, the ten of them discussed their ideas and thoughts. "Some of us are less experienced in the cooking department so we could get other jobs instead," Tomoyo advised.
Everyone nodded with agreement - it was a fair idea. Ticking off her points that were written in neat, legible handwriting, Tomoyo said," First we need someone to supply the equipment and ingredients - this person has to be able to shop for the best prices as we do have a budget. "
"Oh Naoko and I can do that!" Rika exclaimed. "Especially since none of us are really good cooks."
"Great!" Tomoyo smiled. "Now we have one thing done. Anyway . . . we can have five cooks. This is really quite a lot so we'll have to spilt them up at two stations."
"So who'll be the cooks?" Mirano interrupted.
"They'll be Chiharu, Takashi (just pretend there're good cooks in this story), Sakura, Li-kun and . . . " Tomoyo paused. She herself was a talented cook but had to be in charge of design and appearance. [But beside me, both Eroil or Asumi don't cook and Mirano-]
"I'll do it!"
Everyone glanced surprised at Mirano. Reading their expressions, she said, "Why can't I do it?"
"Because you can't cook," everyone chorused. That was true - the sensei always placed a fire extinguisher next to her during every lesson. He was able to burn off all his extra fat just by having to ensure that the room wouldn't go up in flames.
"Well I can learn, " Mrano snapped as she puffed up her hair, "especially," she purred as she smiled at Syaoran, "if I have someone as great as him as my teacher."
Sakura began biting one of her nails to stop herself from exploding. [She only wants to be a cook because Syaoran is one.]
"Mirano will have to be our 4th chef - we have no one else who can do it." Tomoyo said quietly. She could see that Sakura was rather jealous over the way Mirano kept sticking to Syaoran.
"So what's next?" Eroil cut in, hoping to even out the mess.
Looking back over her sheets, Tomoyo replied, "Well I'm the designer and stylist as you all know. Now Eroil and Asumi, you too will have the job of researching. We have around a month till the farewell night will arrive and your job is to find recipes that go under the categories we must make - eg. Main course, dessert. You must also check through our budget to make sure we can afford it. Then after trying out many different foods, we shall then all decide together the ones to prepare on that night."
"Woah, this is really going to make life busy for us," Chiharu sighed.
"And the school athletics are coming too," Naoko added.
"Did you know that if you were always busy and working too hard, your body would eventually die out of nutrients and you'll just vanish?" Takashi said.
* * * * *
"Syaoran! There you are," Sakura cried as she caught up with him. "Come and sit with us!"
Narrowing his eyes at her, he said simply, "Why?"
"Well all our friends are there ofcourse! We'll love to have you join us."
[Our friends? Who said that they like me as their friend?] Still he sighed in defeat. "Fine, fine, I'm coming."
Sakura smiled brightly. "Great!" Grabbing onto the sleeve of his blazer, she led him toward the group of friends that sat under the cherry blossom tree.
"You always sit here?" Syaoran asked as he looked around at Sakura's friends. To his relief he saw that Mirano was not there. "Where's Mirano?"
At the familiar name Sakura bit her lip. [Is she always on his mind now or something?] Still she didn't know that he was asking in simple contentment - not in a 'I miss you' way.
"Oh Mirano? She doesn't sit with us," Asumi answered for him. For the first time that day, their eyes locked. Immediately blue stared into brown - and both narrowed their eyes at each other.
[He doesn't like me] Syaoran thought simply. The look in Asumi's eyes said that perfectly. Unlike the clear, sexy blue he would use with Sakura, it was now darkish and rather challenging. Suddenly Asumi moved his head in Sakura's direction before looking back at him. [And he wants me to stay away from her as well] Syaoran thought as he frowned.
"Sakura?" The sudden question interrupted the tense and silent atmosphere - or quiet, friendly atmosphere as Sakura mistook it for. She more or less thought it was a look of understanding and acceptance.
"Hoe? Yes Naoko?"
"We've got around a fortnight till the school athletics and just yesterday in gym, you said-"
"Hoe! That's right!" Sakura exclaimed.
"Well when do you think we can start our training?" Naoko asked hopefully.
Sakura smiled excitedly. "Why not tomorrow afternoon? We can't start today since we've got cheerleading practice."
* * * * *
"Syaoran! Eroil!"
Looking back, they saw Sakura running toward them. She had changed into the sports uniform as cheerleading practice was about to begin.
"The soccer team is training today. Actually so are all the other sport teams as we all work out on Wednesday."
"So?" Syaoran asked bluntly.
Sakura looked up at him with her large, green eyes. "Why, don't you like soccer? I thought you may like to try out for the team - especially since they're short of one person." She smiled. "The tryouts were some days ago but I'm sure they'll accept you - from what I remember, you're a great soccer player!"
Turning in the direction of home, Syaoran said behind his shoulder, "I'm not bothered with this stuff anymore. It's all just a waste of time."
"Hoe? But Eroil said you were the captain of the soccer team back in China," Sakura replied. [Are you trying to avoid me Syaoran? Why are you making up all these excuses?]
"Did you say that all the sport teams are training today?" Eroil said as he changed the subject.
"Yep," Sakura replied with a small nod of her head.
Eroil smiled. "Great! Maybe I can tryout for the basketball team." Then walking over to Sakura and resting a hand on her shoulder, he said, "Lets go! I can't wait to see your cheerleader moves." Then with extra emphasis and casting looks in Syaoran's direction, he added, "I WONDER if they're as AMAZING and SEXY as the dance you did in China."
Syaoran flinched. [Great - now Eroil and Sakura are together for the afternoon. Wait a sec - why am I so worried? Who cares if she's with him - it's not like I care one bit, well maybe a little, but . . .]
"Sakura! There you are!" Asumi ran toward her, dressed in a loose, white shirt and soccer shorts. "Why are you out here?"
"Hoe? Oh I was just trying to get Syaoran and Eroil to join the school teams - but," Sakura paused, "Well Eroil says yes but Syaoran doesn't want to."
"Oh what a shame," Asumi replied with hardly any disappointment in his voice. Then immediately cheering up, he took her hand in his and said, "Come on! We'd better go now."
"Hey! Who said I'm not coming?"
Asumi, Sakura and Eroil glanced back at Syaoran.
"But I thought you said-," Sakura began.
"I never did - you just thought so," Syaoran shouted behind his back as he ran toward the soccer field.
Watching him go, Sakura smiled happily. "Oh Asumi, you always seem to make everything turn right!"
Asumi frowned - he didn't want that annoying new kid to come. "Yeah I do, don't I?" he muttered.
* * * * *
"Okay Sakura! You can try the jump now!"
Sakura nodded at the captain's instructions. She was one of the best cheerleaders because of her gymnastics and dancing abilities, and would usually get the most advanced move. Still, because she was a year 10, Rasha was the captain as she was from year 11.
Backing up a few steps, Sakura prepared the jump. Then running forward and easily lifting herself up from Chiharu's hands, she leapt up. Just in front she saw Rasha and Mirano doing their cheering moves. [Okay - this is it] Bending herself into a tight ball, she spun around once . . . twice . . . [Now just one more. After this I just have to land perfectly between Mirano and Rasha and I'm done-]
"AHH!"
"Hoe!" Opening her eyes, Sakura found herself sprawled on the gym mat.
"Sakura! Get off!"
Looking down beneath her, Sakura realised she had landed on Mirano's back. Immediately she bounced off, stammering apologies. "I'm so sorry! Gomen! Gomen!"
"Clumsy idiot," Mirano muttered as she tried to get up.
"Oh don't say that," Rasha scolded, "This is a very difficult move. She has to fit three turns in just a little more then a 2 metre jump - then land perfectly between us. Since we've only had two practices so far, I think she's doing quite well."
"Well we would have this whole done by now if you let me do it," Mirano snapped as she puffed up her hair, "Who said she's better then me?" Immediately both Rasha and Mirano scrabbled on.
"Come on guys! You wouldn't believe the hunk who's trying out for the soccer team," one of the cheerleaders interrupted. Beckoning for them to come out, she said, "He's the new kid - and he's just so good!"
* * * * *
"Ah, so you want to join?"
Syaoran nodded.
"Well we don't usually let anyone in when they want to-"
"But I hear you're short of one person and the state soccer challenge is coming up," Syaoran interrupted.
"Well . . . yes." The coach rubbed his chin. Then looking Syaoran over, he nodded slightly. "I can see you're quite fit aren't you?" For the tryouts, Syaoran had taken off his blazer and tie. Then with the top of his shirt undone, his strong, firm muscles totally showed through.
"Yeah, I exercise."
"Have you played soccer before? Because maybe it's not your kind of sport - if you like football, the tryouts are some time next term."
"Soccer is my type of sport - I was the captain of the soccer team back in '?' (sorrie - I can't think of a name) high."
Hearing those words, the coach whistled. "That school was well known for its soccer ability - wasn't that the one which always won the soccer trails every year?"
Syaoran shrugged. "Yeah."
Sighing, the coach picked up a soccer ball from the bench. Then dumping it into Syaorans hands, he said, "Fine - I'll give you a chance. You'd better impress me." Then resting a hand on Asumi's shoulder with a proud look on his face, he said, "Although we're short of one person that doesn't mean you'll still get in. With this kid," he motioned to Asumi, "We can win any day - with, or without you."
Syaoran ignored the smirk that Asumi had on his face. "By all the praise you just got, I guess you're the captain?"
"Yeah."
"So what do you want me to do - captain?"
Folding his equally muscular arms, Asumi said, "Show me ball techniques and tricks. Show me exactly how comfortable you are with the ball. Show me how fast and durable you are on the field. Show me how threatening you are to the opposite team. Show me how well and skillfully you can score a goal. And," he paused with a superior look, "Just show me what you've got that makes you a winner and not a total loser."
"Thanks for the encouragement," Syaoran remarked sarcastically. [He really doesn't believe I'm good does he?]
* * * * *
Shading the sun away from her eyes, Sakura glanced hopefully over the field. She had spotted Asumi next to the coach - but how about Syaoran?
"Look! There's Syaoran!"
Glancing in the direction that Mirano was pointing to, Sakura could make out the figure of a chestnut-headed guy. Her heart leapt - [Syaoran!] Then seeing the way Mirano was totally acting as if she and him had known each other for life, Sakura frowned. [So maybe she had spotted him first but that doesn't matter. I'm still closer to him then anyone else.]
Syaoran suddenly began jogging around with the ball - just warming up and getting the right feel. Then after a few seconds, he sped up his pace until it was at a lightning-fast speed. All that time, Sakura realised with admiration, he had not let the ball get out of his reach.
Then suddenly the ball that had always stayed obediently by his side began traveling in and out, behind and around Syaoran's legs. Still his pace did not falter one bit and he continued to play around with the ball. (This is like da really kool thing Ronaldhino did at the 2002 world cup - in the match against England. GO BRAZIL!!! They rox da world!!!)
Closer and closer he ran toward the goal, then in a flash, the ball was kicked up and in one swift motion, he spun around and kicked it in with the back of his foot.
Sakura gasped - who ever thought he would be so good? Then cheering at the top of her lungs, she yelled, "Go Syaoran!"
* * * * *
Wiping the sweat off his forehead, he gathered up the ball and looked back in the direction of Asumi and the coach. Both of them were totally gaping - so were the rest of the soccer team too.
"Go Syaoran!"
The totally silent atmosphere was now echoing Sakura's cheer. Looking back, he could make out her slim figure on the sidelines, waving her pompoms around with total glee.
Walking back toward Asumi, he could feel a satisfied smile rising on his face. Not because he had just earned himself a place on the team, but because Asumi had seen Sakura cheering especially for him.
"There were a few mistakes you could have fixed," Asumi automatically began.
"Mistakes? Nonsense! That was amazing - you're maybe even better then Asumi!" the coach exclaimed. "With both of you on the team, we're going to have an unbeatable season!" Grabbing one of the towels, the coach handed it to Syaoran. "Go and hit the showers - our next training day will be Saturday morning. On Saturday we'll test you out even more and get you to play against one of the boys - for now, welcome to the team!"
* * * * *
"Syaoran! Congratulations!"
Looking up, he saw Sakura running toward him.
"You were just so fantastic!"
Syaoran cleared his throat uncomfortably. "Eh, thanks." He had been congratulated and praised by the soccer team (except Asumi) and the cheerleading group. But from all of them, it was only Sakura's words that he actually found interesting.
Sakura felt herself melting when she looked up at him; his hair was still wet from the shower and hung sexily over his eyes. And with his blazer slung casually over one shoulder and his shirt still half-undone, he just looked so handsome.
"What? Do I smell or something?"
Sakura blushed. "Oh no, no - ofcourse not," she stammered as she looked away. "There was just a butterfly flying behind your head."
Seeing that she was looking somewhere else, he found it safe to just watch her for a second. The way she stammered . . . the way she blushed . . . in every way she appeared cute and simply adorable. [Even last night] Syaoran thought as he continued to watch her silky hair sway with the wind [When she burnt her thumb - she still looked cute.]
"Ah Sakura - I'm sorry but I think I have to get home early today. You'll just have to walk with Syaoran and not me."
Glancing toward the school gates, Syaoran realised Eroil was already there. Once their eyes met, Syaoran paled - the look on Eroil's face told him he knew what he had been thinking the whole time.
"Hoe? Really Eroil-kun? Is it that important? Otherwise we can all walk there together - it'll be a lot more fun."
Shaking his head, Eroil tried his best to frown - but it turned out more like a lope-sided grin. "I'm so sorry Sakura. But at least you have Syaoran to go with!" With that he waved and ran off down the street.
Watching him go, Syaoran frowned. [Idiot - it's so obvious you're doing this to try and get us together. And not only that] he thought as he sighed [You could have at least asked me for a pair of the house keys.]
* * * * *
"Syaoran, joining the soccer team must make your life a lot busier - I hope you don't mind that."
Syaoran shrugged. "It's okay. I don't really mind - nothing really interesting has been happening in my life for months. So being busy is actually quite helpful."
Sakura nodded slowly. His words triggered something in her mind - beside the fact that they were cold and emotionless again, but there was something. [He said nothing interesting has been going on - so what we need is a . . . party!]
* * * * *
Coco cookie: so . . . did this chapter surprise you? After all dat romance S+S experienced yesterday, Syaoran's still back to his cold self. Hee . . . hee . . . I just love testing and complicating their love. I mean, aren't those simple love stories just boring? There's no establishment of love, or of friendship, or of trust. Don't worrie though - this is a total S+S storie.
Does anyway here just love da world cup? I DO! Brazil won da world cup - yes! Go Brazil! I noe I should go 4 china since I am chinese, but I don't give - BRAZIL ROX DA WORLD! I worked out that if I live to 80, I'll get to see another 17 world cups - WOO HOO!
U peoplez out there betta go 4 Brazil - or Japan. Da Japanese team is just kool - did u see their dyed hair? Da Japanese soccer players Hidetoshi Nakata and Junichi Innomoto r just like sooooo cute! ^_^ I got pics of them all over my diary!
Oh yeah, is it just me or does these chapters become longer and longer? Oh and to da person who asked when will Syaoran realise his love for Sakura, that won't happen until . . . haha! Not telling ^_^ Sorrie - don't mean to be mean or anything but I don't want to give it all away.
If any of ya peoplez have msn, tell me!!!!!!! I'd just love to chat with people from other places around the world and get to know what they're like. I'm on every weekday night and maybe weekends (mostly in da daytime thought). So remember that my email is:mmm_lotsa_chocolate@hotmail.com
Coco cookie: I absolutely hate the title I give my stories - like corny. Still I can't think of anything else and overall, the title does show what the chapter's about. Okay so I'm stretching da truth - it doesn't really seem to represent anything at all.
Isn't it such a drag when you're 12? You're just one year off being a true teenager - sigh. Life can be so unfair . . . Oh well, right now I'm at least 12 ½ - I'll be 13 in about half a year.
Key: words in braces are thoughts and da starry things indicate a new setting.
* * * * *
"Oh you wouldn't believe who I saw in the office today!"
"You mean the new cutie?"
"You saw him too?"
"If you think he's gorgeous, wait till you see the other guy."
"Woah! What's he like?"
"Total hunk man - a total hunk."
"Does he have such funky, blue hair too?"
"Nah - he's a chestnut brown. But he looks so sexy!"
"Even better then Asumi?"
"Dunno - they're both just too gorgeous for words."
Eroil flipped back the bind. Looking over to Syaoran who sat next to him in the office, he said with a grin, "Hear that? The local girls are talking about us again."
"I know, " Syaoran scowled. "Their yappy voices make my ears sore."
Immediately a wide grin spread up Eroil's face. "I never hear you complaining about Sakura's voice," he said slyly. Seeing that Syaoran pretended not to hear, he leaned closer to him. "Well?"
Suddenly the principle came back into the room. Smiling warmly at the boys, he handed them a sheet of paper. "Your class from now will be 10B. It's along that section of the school - you shouldn't miss it."
* * * * *
Glancing anxiously at the clock, Sakura sighed. [How long till they come? I can't wait!] Everyone in the class was working busily but no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn't do it. Glancing down at the japanese passage she was to read, she could only feel her mind wandering away. [Please be here already!] she prayed as she again fidgeted in her seat.
Then suddenly she felt something - two auras that were coming her way. One was stubborn and proud, with incredible strength and knowledge. His power was well taught and trained; every stand of magic was fine and solid. Closing her eyes as she reached out to recognise it, she could see the colour was green.
The other one was more carefree and she could she it as a blue colour in her mind. It was also very powerful and brimming with mischievous ideas. The magic was wise and seemed to have viewed and experienced a lot, though it was kept deep down - never actually used until needed.
The auras became stronger but they moved no further and stopped right outside the classroom door. Suddenly a loud knock was made.
~ Meanwhile from the other side . . . ~
"Why the hell did you have to knock so loudly?" Syaoran hissed.
Eroil looked down at his hand with the usual happy smile. "Opps. Guess my knuckles are a lot harder then I thought they were."
"Yeah and I guess that counts your head too," Syaoran remarked sarcastically.
"Really?" Eroil asked, faking a surprised act. "No wonder I never got brain damage after all those injuries you gave me."
Syaoran: +_+
~ Now back to the classroom . . . ~
"Class, today we have two new students from China. Please be welcoming to your new classmates. The first is Hira . . . (sorrie - can't spell), Eroil."
At this the teacher paused, waiting for him to come in and receive the usual polite welcome. For a moment there was silence as everyone stared expectantly at the door. "I said, " repeated the sensei more loudly as he also cleared his throat, "will Hira . . ., Eroil please come in."
Finally the door slid open and a blue-haired boy came in. Bowing to the class and the sensei, he apologised for his late arrival. Sakura stared at him puzzled - he seemed rather, well, like as if he was in a fight. His tie needed straightening, his shirt was quite crinkled - and the glasses on his nose were hanging on from only one ear.
"You may take the seat in front of Miss Daidouji," the teacher said. At this, Tomoyo raised her hand so that he could see - Eroil grinned. Although he looked absolutely terrible - and even felt that way, he still smiled like he had no care in the world.
Immediately some girls began giggling and the word 'kawaii' spread around the class.
"Now," the sensei continued, " we have the student Li, Syaoran. "
Walking in casually, Syaoran just stared around at the class with his emotionless and yet alluring glance. Everyone felt completely speechless - wondering whom this new muscular, sexy guy was.
Sakura stared at him wide-eyed. He looked so handsome in their uniform - [Maybe even better then Asumi does]. To her annoyance, she realised most girls thought that too - they were totally swooning over him. "Mr Li, you can take the seat behind Miss Kinomoto." Hearing does words, Sakura hurriedly raised her arm so he knew where she was.
When their eyes met, she smiled warmly at him - but his only reply was a silent look at her. With that, he seated himself down and laid out his books.
[He's so totally different from what he was yesterday] Sakura thought disappointed. Without turning around, she could imagine him flipping to the right page in their textbook, and doing the activities that were laid out. [He hasn't even shown any feelings or even the slightest memory of what happened last night.] Nibbling on the end of her pen, Sakura sighed. [And he hasn't even said hi either]
"Hey your name is Li right?" (Sakura bolted up right at the familiar voice - Mirano!)
"Yeah."
Practically dragging her desk next to his, Mirano purred. "Welcome Li - or shall I call you Syaoran?" (Unable to hold back her jealousy, Sakura turned around in her chair to watch them.)
Syaoran shrugged. "Don't care."
Smiling flirtatiously at him, Mirano replied, "Then I'll call you Syaoran okay? It's a lot cuter - which fits you perfectly." (GRRRR . . . Sakura couldn't believe what she was hearing. [Yeah cuter - that's what you're doing when you're around him])
"Whatever." Syaoran shrugged again - girls were always like this around him. Then as he looked around the room and saw the other girls that were watching, he realised there would be a lot more of that.
"Do you like pests?" Mirano suddenly asked as she batted her eyelashes at him.
"No."
Looking directly at Sakura with a smirk, she exclaimed, "Well there's one - and she's pushing her nose into our business." Immediately Sakura turned away, trying to ignore her flaming red face and begin concentrating on her japanese.
"Sakura, I think you may need to go over your japanese, " Asumi advised as he looked over her work. "I've never seen you have so many mistakes." Still he smiled teasingly at her.
"Asumi, " Sakura cried, "You're not making my day any easier!"
He laughed. "You're so cute when you're like that."
Sakura flushed at his compliment. "Um, thanks?"
* * * * *
"You know what Eroil? Is it just me or does Li-kun completely hide his feelings from Sakura? I've never seen him so distant - it's like no love ever happened between them."
"No it's not you. He believes he doesn't love Sakura anymore - he believes that's for the better. But he's just being foolish."
Tomoyo sighed. "I know. I just wish he would be true to his feelings - Sakura gets so hurt when he's like that. And you know what? She's too dense to think he may not like her anymore - she just probably thinks he's in a bad mood and that's why he's so cold to her."
Leaning back on his chair, Eroil replied, "Well one good thing is the fact that he still loves her - I'm sure of it."
Tomoyo nodded. "I've seen it too Eroil. The only problem is that he won't show it - he doesn't even believe he loves her."
Eroil smiled. "So we just have to make it more obvious for him."
"And how, Mr Mastermind, can we do that?"
Holding up three fingers, Eroil tickled the first one off. "Syaoran shows the fact that he truly loves someone when three things may happen. Number one - if another guy is getting Sakura's attention and making it possible that she may like him back in the future."
Tomoyo laughed as she glanced over to where Syaoran sat. He was totally ignoring everything Mirano was saying to him because his focus was totally on Asumi and Sakura. [Talk about being jealous and overprotective.] "Well the first job has been taken care of. And even if Asumi fails somehow, there are a whole grade of boys that all over Sakura."
"Well less jobs for us to take care of at least," Eroil commented. "Anyway, number 2. When Sakura gets in trouble or danger, he'll break his neck just to save her."
"Well that's all taken care too - any cards that may come along will sure cause some trouble. And usually Sakura's in it."
"Now finally number 3 - when Syaoran just simply gives over to his feelings. To help this one blossom in success, we just need to 'activate' his senses." Eroil smiled wickedly. "All the sort of stuff that makes Sakura irresistible is what will be needed - her beauty, her body and her charm."
Tomoyo laughed. "Isn't it so fun playing cupid?"
* * * * *
"Syaoran! You're not listening to me!"
[Fricken, fricken person. Fricken, fricken person.] Syaoran clenched his fist even harder. [So that's Asumi - the flirt who won't leave Sakura alone.] Sitting behind Sakura meant he got a perfect view of her - and Asumi's romeo acts. Suddenly they both got out of their seats and began walking toward the door. [Hey what's that about?]
"Syaoran!" Mirano screeched again. "You're not listening to me!"
Practically falling off his chair because of her scream, he managed to just cling onto the table. "Yeah what is it?"
"Get your bag, we've got to head off to our next period." Then pulling onto his arm impatiently, she said, "Hurry! Everyone's practically gone now."
"Okay, okay." Stuffing his books into his bag and slinging it around his shoulder, he allowed Mirano to lead him out the door. Just ahead he saw Sakura and Asumi - with Asumi pulling off his gentlemen acts again. He had her bag casually over his shoulder like the weight was nothing at all.
"Is he always like that?" Syaoran growled.
Sighing admiringly, Mirano nodded. "He's just so adorable!" Then snuggling even closer to him, she said, "Don't worry! You're just as handsome as Asumi is."
[If that's true] Syaoran thought [Then how come Sakura seems to like him better then me?]
* * * * *
"Hey Sakura!"
Tying the apron firmly around her waist, Sakura smiled. "Yeah Rika?" They were in the school kitchen room; food was their second period for the day.
"Have you seen Li-kun yet? Or Mirano? The teacher's calling their names on the roll."
Sakura's eyes widened. "There're not here?" [Out of all people, he just has to be with her. Mirano probably planned this - she was all over him today. Practically sitting on his lap during japanese class. I never had a chance to talk to him at all. ]
"Eh Sakura?"
"Hoe? Oh what?"
Rika replied, "Um, if you rip the apron, I don't think it'll help you during cooking."
Sakura glanced down at the scrunched material she held in her hands. She didn't know that all that time she was using it as her stress-reliever. Instantly she dropped it with a slight laugh. "Hee . . . hee . . . eh, just testing out the fabric - you never know how strong a thing can be until you, eh, tear it."
The door suddenly opened and both Syaoran and Mirano entered the room. Mirano, Sakura realised as she clenched her fists, had herself totally wrapped around Syaoran's arm. She was expecting some sort of cold, get-lost behavior from his as that would be what he would do to her - but it never happened. He just let her cling to him.
Waiting for the last two students to put on their aprons, the sensei said, "As you all know, there's a special romance happening between two of our most valuable teachers here. " Everyone cheered and applause filled the room.
"Hey what's this about?" Syaoran murmured over the racket.
"Starting from a few months ago, two teachers from this school fell in love," Sakura replied. Beating Mirano just in time, she managed to push herself next to him and answer his question. "It's the art sensei and our sports recreational teacher. They plain to get married in a few weeks or so and then leave the school to start a new life with each other."
"It's so romantic!" Tomoyo cut in as she joined the conversation. Her eyes formed stars as she said, "Just imagine! Two people fighting against all the hardships and courses that stand in their way to just reach each other. For they are each other's loved ones, they are each other's most treasured ones . . . " She paused as she stared meanifully at Syaoran. He frowned. [Great - there she goes again, looking at me like that with those annoying hints.]
"Anyway class, " the teacher continued, "as both teachers educate year 10 - in other words, you - and are leaving soon, the whole grade has decided to organise something special for them. " Smiling, he said, "Our class been chosen to prepare the food for the farewell. We are to make enough dinner to satisfy the stomachs of all the school staff and especially our school couple.
Anyway, you are to get into groups of around ten and make enough food to be fit for a complete feast. Remember to include appetisers, the main course, desserts - etc. Use your imagination and creativity and do the best you can." Seeing the amount of noise that was arising, he said," As you can see, this will be quite hard. So the larger groups you get into, the better - not too large though, all else this will cause problems." With those last words, he sat back down onto his seat and waited for them to start their groups and ideas.
Immediately all control broke loose - students ran everywhere, sorting and choosing friends to go with.
Grabbing Tomoyo and Asumi immediately, Sakura looked over at Syaoran. "Come on! We need to find another six people!"
"We? You mean we're together in the same group?"
Sakura smiled. "Ofcourse Syaoran! You're one of my best friends - why would I leave you out?"
He nodded slowly. [Best friends . . . you're one of my best friends.] Her words repeated in his mind like as if someone kept rewinding it. He watched silently as Sakura beckon to Eroil, Rika, Noako, Chiharu and Takashi to come over.
"We're short of one person but we'll be all right," Sakura said excitedly as she looked around at her group.
"Hey! Wherever Syaoran's going, I'm going!" Mirano suddenly clung onto him again.
"Um, okay . . . well the good part is that we've got a group of ten at least," Sakura said.
"Yeah and the bad part is that our 10th person is her," Chiharu muttered.
* * * * *
Sitting in a tight circle, the ten of them discussed their ideas and thoughts. "Some of us are less experienced in the cooking department so we could get other jobs instead," Tomoyo advised.
Everyone nodded with agreement - it was a fair idea. Ticking off her points that were written in neat, legible handwriting, Tomoyo said," First we need someone to supply the equipment and ingredients - this person has to be able to shop for the best prices as we do have a budget. "
"Oh Naoko and I can do that!" Rika exclaimed. "Especially since none of us are really good cooks."
"Great!" Tomoyo smiled. "Now we have one thing done. Anyway . . . we can have five cooks. This is really quite a lot so we'll have to spilt them up at two stations."
"So who'll be the cooks?" Mirano interrupted.
"They'll be Chiharu, Takashi (just pretend there're good cooks in this story), Sakura, Li-kun and . . . " Tomoyo paused. She herself was a talented cook but had to be in charge of design and appearance. [But beside me, both Eroil or Asumi don't cook and Mirano-]
"I'll do it!"
Everyone glanced surprised at Mirano. Reading their expressions, she said, "Why can't I do it?"
"Because you can't cook," everyone chorused. That was true - the sensei always placed a fire extinguisher next to her during every lesson. He was able to burn off all his extra fat just by having to ensure that the room wouldn't go up in flames.
"Well I can learn, " Mrano snapped as she puffed up her hair, "especially," she purred as she smiled at Syaoran, "if I have someone as great as him as my teacher."
Sakura began biting one of her nails to stop herself from exploding. [She only wants to be a cook because Syaoran is one.]
"Mirano will have to be our 4th chef - we have no one else who can do it." Tomoyo said quietly. She could see that Sakura was rather jealous over the way Mirano kept sticking to Syaoran.
"So what's next?" Eroil cut in, hoping to even out the mess.
Looking back over her sheets, Tomoyo replied, "Well I'm the designer and stylist as you all know. Now Eroil and Asumi, you too will have the job of researching. We have around a month till the farewell night will arrive and your job is to find recipes that go under the categories we must make - eg. Main course, dessert. You must also check through our budget to make sure we can afford it. Then after trying out many different foods, we shall then all decide together the ones to prepare on that night."
"Woah, this is really going to make life busy for us," Chiharu sighed.
"And the school athletics are coming too," Naoko added.
"Did you know that if you were always busy and working too hard, your body would eventually die out of nutrients and you'll just vanish?" Takashi said.
* * * * *
"Syaoran! There you are," Sakura cried as she caught up with him. "Come and sit with us!"
Narrowing his eyes at her, he said simply, "Why?"
"Well all our friends are there ofcourse! We'll love to have you join us."
[Our friends? Who said that they like me as their friend?] Still he sighed in defeat. "Fine, fine, I'm coming."
Sakura smiled brightly. "Great!" Grabbing onto the sleeve of his blazer, she led him toward the group of friends that sat under the cherry blossom tree.
"You always sit here?" Syaoran asked as he looked around at Sakura's friends. To his relief he saw that Mirano was not there. "Where's Mirano?"
At the familiar name Sakura bit her lip. [Is she always on his mind now or something?] Still she didn't know that he was asking in simple contentment - not in a 'I miss you' way.
"Oh Mirano? She doesn't sit with us," Asumi answered for him. For the first time that day, their eyes locked. Immediately blue stared into brown - and both narrowed their eyes at each other.
[He doesn't like me] Syaoran thought simply. The look in Asumi's eyes said that perfectly. Unlike the clear, sexy blue he would use with Sakura, it was now darkish and rather challenging. Suddenly Asumi moved his head in Sakura's direction before looking back at him. [And he wants me to stay away from her as well] Syaoran thought as he frowned.
"Sakura?" The sudden question interrupted the tense and silent atmosphere - or quiet, friendly atmosphere as Sakura mistook it for. She more or less thought it was a look of understanding and acceptance.
"Hoe? Yes Naoko?"
"We've got around a fortnight till the school athletics and just yesterday in gym, you said-"
"Hoe! That's right!" Sakura exclaimed.
"Well when do you think we can start our training?" Naoko asked hopefully.
Sakura smiled excitedly. "Why not tomorrow afternoon? We can't start today since we've got cheerleading practice."
* * * * *
"Syaoran! Eroil!"
Looking back, they saw Sakura running toward them. She had changed into the sports uniform as cheerleading practice was about to begin.
"The soccer team is training today. Actually so are all the other sport teams as we all work out on Wednesday."
"So?" Syaoran asked bluntly.
Sakura looked up at him with her large, green eyes. "Why, don't you like soccer? I thought you may like to try out for the team - especially since they're short of one person." She smiled. "The tryouts were some days ago but I'm sure they'll accept you - from what I remember, you're a great soccer player!"
Turning in the direction of home, Syaoran said behind his shoulder, "I'm not bothered with this stuff anymore. It's all just a waste of time."
"Hoe? But Eroil said you were the captain of the soccer team back in China," Sakura replied. [Are you trying to avoid me Syaoran? Why are you making up all these excuses?]
"Did you say that all the sport teams are training today?" Eroil said as he changed the subject.
"Yep," Sakura replied with a small nod of her head.
Eroil smiled. "Great! Maybe I can tryout for the basketball team." Then walking over to Sakura and resting a hand on her shoulder, he said, "Lets go! I can't wait to see your cheerleader moves." Then with extra emphasis and casting looks in Syaoran's direction, he added, "I WONDER if they're as AMAZING and SEXY as the dance you did in China."
Syaoran flinched. [Great - now Eroil and Sakura are together for the afternoon. Wait a sec - why am I so worried? Who cares if she's with him - it's not like I care one bit, well maybe a little, but . . .]
"Sakura! There you are!" Asumi ran toward her, dressed in a loose, white shirt and soccer shorts. "Why are you out here?"
"Hoe? Oh I was just trying to get Syaoran and Eroil to join the school teams - but," Sakura paused, "Well Eroil says yes but Syaoran doesn't want to."
"Oh what a shame," Asumi replied with hardly any disappointment in his voice. Then immediately cheering up, he took her hand in his and said, "Come on! We'd better go now."
"Hey! Who said I'm not coming?"
Asumi, Sakura and Eroil glanced back at Syaoran.
"But I thought you said-," Sakura began.
"I never did - you just thought so," Syaoran shouted behind his back as he ran toward the soccer field.
Watching him go, Sakura smiled happily. "Oh Asumi, you always seem to make everything turn right!"
Asumi frowned - he didn't want that annoying new kid to come. "Yeah I do, don't I?" he muttered.
* * * * *
"Okay Sakura! You can try the jump now!"
Sakura nodded at the captain's instructions. She was one of the best cheerleaders because of her gymnastics and dancing abilities, and would usually get the most advanced move. Still, because she was a year 10, Rasha was the captain as she was from year 11.
Backing up a few steps, Sakura prepared the jump. Then running forward and easily lifting herself up from Chiharu's hands, she leapt up. Just in front she saw Rasha and Mirano doing their cheering moves. [Okay - this is it] Bending herself into a tight ball, she spun around once . . . twice . . . [Now just one more. After this I just have to land perfectly between Mirano and Rasha and I'm done-]
"AHH!"
"Hoe!" Opening her eyes, Sakura found herself sprawled on the gym mat.
"Sakura! Get off!"
Looking down beneath her, Sakura realised she had landed on Mirano's back. Immediately she bounced off, stammering apologies. "I'm so sorry! Gomen! Gomen!"
"Clumsy idiot," Mirano muttered as she tried to get up.
"Oh don't say that," Rasha scolded, "This is a very difficult move. She has to fit three turns in just a little more then a 2 metre jump - then land perfectly between us. Since we've only had two practices so far, I think she's doing quite well."
"Well we would have this whole done by now if you let me do it," Mirano snapped as she puffed up her hair, "Who said she's better then me?" Immediately both Rasha and Mirano scrabbled on.
"Come on guys! You wouldn't believe the hunk who's trying out for the soccer team," one of the cheerleaders interrupted. Beckoning for them to come out, she said, "He's the new kid - and he's just so good!"
* * * * *
"Ah, so you want to join?"
Syaoran nodded.
"Well we don't usually let anyone in when they want to-"
"But I hear you're short of one person and the state soccer challenge is coming up," Syaoran interrupted.
"Well . . . yes." The coach rubbed his chin. Then looking Syaoran over, he nodded slightly. "I can see you're quite fit aren't you?" For the tryouts, Syaoran had taken off his blazer and tie. Then with the top of his shirt undone, his strong, firm muscles totally showed through.
"Yeah, I exercise."
"Have you played soccer before? Because maybe it's not your kind of sport - if you like football, the tryouts are some time next term."
"Soccer is my type of sport - I was the captain of the soccer team back in '?' (sorrie - I can't think of a name) high."
Hearing those words, the coach whistled. "That school was well known for its soccer ability - wasn't that the one which always won the soccer trails every year?"
Syaoran shrugged. "Yeah."
Sighing, the coach picked up a soccer ball from the bench. Then dumping it into Syaorans hands, he said, "Fine - I'll give you a chance. You'd better impress me." Then resting a hand on Asumi's shoulder with a proud look on his face, he said, "Although we're short of one person that doesn't mean you'll still get in. With this kid," he motioned to Asumi, "We can win any day - with, or without you."
Syaoran ignored the smirk that Asumi had on his face. "By all the praise you just got, I guess you're the captain?"
"Yeah."
"So what do you want me to do - captain?"
Folding his equally muscular arms, Asumi said, "Show me ball techniques and tricks. Show me exactly how comfortable you are with the ball. Show me how fast and durable you are on the field. Show me how threatening you are to the opposite team. Show me how well and skillfully you can score a goal. And," he paused with a superior look, "Just show me what you've got that makes you a winner and not a total loser."
"Thanks for the encouragement," Syaoran remarked sarcastically. [He really doesn't believe I'm good does he?]
* * * * *
Shading the sun away from her eyes, Sakura glanced hopefully over the field. She had spotted Asumi next to the coach - but how about Syaoran?
"Look! There's Syaoran!"
Glancing in the direction that Mirano was pointing to, Sakura could make out the figure of a chestnut-headed guy. Her heart leapt - [Syaoran!] Then seeing the way Mirano was totally acting as if she and him had known each other for life, Sakura frowned. [So maybe she had spotted him first but that doesn't matter. I'm still closer to him then anyone else.]
Syaoran suddenly began jogging around with the ball - just warming up and getting the right feel. Then after a few seconds, he sped up his pace until it was at a lightning-fast speed. All that time, Sakura realised with admiration, he had not let the ball get out of his reach.
Then suddenly the ball that had always stayed obediently by his side began traveling in and out, behind and around Syaoran's legs. Still his pace did not falter one bit and he continued to play around with the ball. (This is like da really kool thing Ronaldhino did at the 2002 world cup - in the match against England. GO BRAZIL!!! They rox da world!!!)
Closer and closer he ran toward the goal, then in a flash, the ball was kicked up and in one swift motion, he spun around and kicked it in with the back of his foot.
Sakura gasped - who ever thought he would be so good? Then cheering at the top of her lungs, she yelled, "Go Syaoran!"
* * * * *
Wiping the sweat off his forehead, he gathered up the ball and looked back in the direction of Asumi and the coach. Both of them were totally gaping - so were the rest of the soccer team too.
"Go Syaoran!"
The totally silent atmosphere was now echoing Sakura's cheer. Looking back, he could make out her slim figure on the sidelines, waving her pompoms around with total glee.
Walking back toward Asumi, he could feel a satisfied smile rising on his face. Not because he had just earned himself a place on the team, but because Asumi had seen Sakura cheering especially for him.
"There were a few mistakes you could have fixed," Asumi automatically began.
"Mistakes? Nonsense! That was amazing - you're maybe even better then Asumi!" the coach exclaimed. "With both of you on the team, we're going to have an unbeatable season!" Grabbing one of the towels, the coach handed it to Syaoran. "Go and hit the showers - our next training day will be Saturday morning. On Saturday we'll test you out even more and get you to play against one of the boys - for now, welcome to the team!"
* * * * *
"Syaoran! Congratulations!"
Looking up, he saw Sakura running toward him.
"You were just so fantastic!"
Syaoran cleared his throat uncomfortably. "Eh, thanks." He had been congratulated and praised by the soccer team (except Asumi) and the cheerleading group. But from all of them, it was only Sakura's words that he actually found interesting.
Sakura felt herself melting when she looked up at him; his hair was still wet from the shower and hung sexily over his eyes. And with his blazer slung casually over one shoulder and his shirt still half-undone, he just looked so handsome.
"What? Do I smell or something?"
Sakura blushed. "Oh no, no - ofcourse not," she stammered as she looked away. "There was just a butterfly flying behind your head."
Seeing that she was looking somewhere else, he found it safe to just watch her for a second. The way she stammered . . . the way she blushed . . . in every way she appeared cute and simply adorable. [Even last night] Syaoran thought as he continued to watch her silky hair sway with the wind [When she burnt her thumb - she still looked cute.]
"Ah Sakura - I'm sorry but I think I have to get home early today. You'll just have to walk with Syaoran and not me."
Glancing toward the school gates, Syaoran realised Eroil was already there. Once their eyes met, Syaoran paled - the look on Eroil's face told him he knew what he had been thinking the whole time.
"Hoe? Really Eroil-kun? Is it that important? Otherwise we can all walk there together - it'll be a lot more fun."
Shaking his head, Eroil tried his best to frown - but it turned out more like a lope-sided grin. "I'm so sorry Sakura. But at least you have Syaoran to go with!" With that he waved and ran off down the street.
Watching him go, Syaoran frowned. [Idiot - it's so obvious you're doing this to try and get us together. And not only that] he thought as he sighed [You could have at least asked me for a pair of the house keys.]
* * * * *
"Syaoran, joining the soccer team must make your life a lot busier - I hope you don't mind that."
Syaoran shrugged. "It's okay. I don't really mind - nothing really interesting has been happening in my life for months. So being busy is actually quite helpful."
Sakura nodded slowly. His words triggered something in her mind - beside the fact that they were cold and emotionless again, but there was something. [He said nothing interesting has been going on - so what we need is a . . . party!]
* * * * *
Coco cookie: so . . . did this chapter surprise you? After all dat romance S+S experienced yesterday, Syaoran's still back to his cold self. Hee . . . hee . . . I just love testing and complicating their love. I mean, aren't those simple love stories just boring? There's no establishment of love, or of friendship, or of trust. Don't worrie though - this is a total S+S storie.
Does anyway here just love da world cup? I DO! Brazil won da world cup - yes! Go Brazil! I noe I should go 4 china since I am chinese, but I don't give - BRAZIL ROX DA WORLD! I worked out that if I live to 80, I'll get to see another 17 world cups - WOO HOO!
U peoplez out there betta go 4 Brazil - or Japan. Da Japanese team is just kool - did u see their dyed hair? Da Japanese soccer players Hidetoshi Nakata and Junichi Innomoto r just like sooooo cute! ^_^ I got pics of them all over my diary!
Oh yeah, is it just me or does these chapters become longer and longer? Oh and to da person who asked when will Syaoran realise his love for Sakura, that won't happen until . . . haha! Not telling ^_^ Sorrie - don't mean to be mean or anything but I don't want to give it all away.
If any of ya peoplez have msn, tell me!!!!!!! I'd just love to chat with people from other places around the world and get to know what they're like. I'm on every weekday night and maybe weekends (mostly in da daytime thought). So remember that my email is:mmm_lotsa_chocolate@hotmail.com