Do You Remember Me? I Remember You
By Rainbow Dreamer and co-author Cryst and Ying Fa
*Dedicated to Cryst and Ying Fa, who have helped me with this story. If it weren't for you both, none of this would of happened. Arigato.
DISCLAIMER: I do NOT, I repeat, I do NOT own CCS. It belongs to Clamp! I think you all know though, that this story is my own and every idea is of my own. Yep.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Ano. someone mentioned to me that, um. this is SO embarrassing.. That Ryoko is actually a girl's name from Tenchi. Gosh, that was sooo hard for me to say! I just didn't know, I swear. I don't watch Tenchi and I THOUGHT I made the name up. so, I just wanted to apologize. You readers, get to decide on the future of this redhead. Do you guys want to change his name? I can change all his names into another, but I'll need some suggestions. Or do you want to keep him as he is now? Tell me in your reviews or send me an email. Onegai! My email address is: rainbow_dreams@email.com.
AND!!! Thanks to Ying Fa, my great co-author who corrects my every mistake. Gomen to all you readers out there.. Sakura is leaving to Beijing for THREE months, NOT one. I corrected that mistake and have updated the corrected version. Arigato, Ying Fa!
Oh, another apology. This chapter, the redhead is still Ryoko Kai. Gomen! Deeply embarrassed, Rainbow Dreamer (
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Li Syaoran is so Kakoii: Thanks for wishing me luck on my midterms! I'm glad you like this story!
Anonymous: Yep! Here I am again, with a new chapter!
Usagi yf: Hehe.. I wish there were time gaps as well! Here's the next chapter you've been waiting for soooo long!
Aishiteru: Thanks for wishing me luck on my midterms as well! Though I did pass. it was not through flying colors! LoL.
Sakurakawaiicherry (SKC): I'm glad you think it's so kawaii~~
Tina: welcome back girlfriend! Hehe. I'm psyched out that you're still reading my fic! Thanks for both of your reviews, for chapter 16 and 17
AngelSakura: Thanks for wishing me luck. I'm just glad that they're over! (
CCStarry: Such a great complement! I'm super duper happy that you like my fic!
Ying Fa: Gosh girl. you write lots. not that I mind because I do that as well. I'm so happy that you're back on fanfiction again. I'm glad that you like the line that Kaho said about friendship. My mother taught me that! Hehe. I love her. Anyhow, thanks a ton for your constructive feedback and all four of your long reviews! I love receiving them! And thanks once again for catching all my mistakes! LOL
Cherry Princess: Don't cry! *Hands you a tissue * to comfort you, here's the next chapter!
Cherri: I'm going to try my best to get one chapter up each week. Trying hard here! Better pray I don't get writer's block. LoL
Cherryz Angel: Girl, do I need to thank you! You've granted me three wishes! Oh thank you, my fairy godmother! And my life Syaoran. hmmmm.. Still searching! How about some hints godmother?? LOL. Love your reviews. so funny!
Kirei Ayumi: You're a pretty smart girl. about that "magic" about Kali. Now who said she has magic? Hmmm??? Hehe. I'm pleased that you love my story. *Blushes * it's your favorite! Aww~~
Keetra: thanks for the luck! ( I'll try to make this a happier fic. although I can't be that kawaii with Syaoran gone. Hm. Just read and you'll see what I have in store.
Kawaii-Cherry Wolf: Aiee! Stop crying! You're going to make me cry as well.
Lilyflower: Hm. Just finished mine. Did soo bad. anyhow! Focus not on my midterms; it should be on my fic! And don't you start crying too! *Grabs a tissue *
PnaixRose8: Don't you cry too! That's four crying! *Sobs along with you all * LoL. Don't take that personally. As for what's going to happen. Hehe. Just read!
Werid-N-Nextdoor: I'll try my best to write better chapters. Better as in not that sad or what??
Idiot2002: Sorry that I've made Sakura seem like a crybaby. but think about it. My bf dumped me and that was painful enough! Anyhow, don't take it personally. I'm glad that you're reading my fic and you're welcome to make any constructive feedback that will make the story better! And I will try to make Sakura cry less. (
LASTLY, BUT NOT LEAST, thank you all! Gosh! Just look at all those reviews! Love you guys! Rainbow dreamer.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: Wish Upon a Star
*** Sakura's POV ***
I drummed my fingers on the table that folds out from the seat in front of you impatiently. Kero looked at me warily, trying to pretend to be a doll. He had promised to stay stiff and would eat inside my bag. I knew he was watching over me and I was happy about that, but my thoughts just wouldn't settle.
"Sakura? What's wrong?" he asked my telepathically, making me jump a bit. I looked at him and he looked back, his eyes raised. "So. still thinking about that gaki. I mean Li?"
"Shut up Kero." I answered back mentally, giving him a glare. "I'm just thinking."
"I think you've spent too much with him," He grumbled. "You're even starting to glare like him, not to mention your attitude as well. I was just trying to be nice." He shot back.
"Oh. gomen, Kero. Really. I'm just kind of stressed out. Things are just happening so quickly that I can't focus." I apologized, now conscious of the way I was acting. Kero gave me a lopsided smile, since he was still trying to act like a stuff doll.
"Hey.. What do you know?" A familiar voice greeted me. I turned around and found myself looking into a pair of pale green eyes.
"Kai?" I asked, surprised. What was he doing on the plane? Wasn't he at school? He grinned at me.
"Well, my dad he's a great archeologist as well, Kinomoto. He's in the same team as your father I believe. I guess we're stuck with his together." He was still grinning when he offered me his hand. I smiled softly and shook his hand.
"Geez, three months! I can't believe we're going to be in Beijing for so long!" He said lazily as he sat into the empty seat next to me as we talked. I nodded.
"Yeah, I guess." I said quietly.
"You okay?" he asked, peering at me. I smiled and shook my head.
"Gomen. I just miss my friends and all. It was hard leaving them. and I still had some.. Unfinished business, I guess you can say." I mumbled.
"Sorry to hear that." Kai answered. "It's sure a bummer leaving your friends behind, let me tell you that. I've moved more than enough."
"Yeah.." I sighed mentally.
"Sakura?" Kero's voice questioned, gently probing. I knew he had heard my sigh. Meanwhile though, he was safely in my bag once he saw Ryoko coming. A slight smile played on my lips.
"I'm all right Kero." I answered back. I could just picture him with his eyebrow raised, giving me that skeptical look that he must have got from Touya. I giggled.
"What's so funny Kinomoto?" Ryoko asked, snapping his fingers in front of my face. I blushed immediately.
"Gomen. I just thought of something." I said with a smile.
"Hmph. Whatever!" Kero mind spoke furiously. That just made me smile a bit wider. Ryoko gave me one of those weird looks, but didn't question, being the gentleman that he was.
"So, are you being home schooled as well?" he asked me as we ate the snacks the flight attendant had given us. I nodded.
"Hai." Ryoko grinned, his pale green eyes twinkling.
"Awesome. Want to bet that we get tutored together?" He asked.
"We are?" Blink. Blink. That never occurred to me. His light laughter brought me back to the present.
"Kinomoto, I can see why you have so many friends. You're just so easy to get along with." Ryoko commented breezily, his hands tuck behind his head as he leaned back comfortably on the chair.
"You're just as well to get along with and you have equally the same amount of friends." I replied back sincerely. He turned and flashed me a smile.
"Ah, you're just being modest. Me? I usually hang around with my baby HS and Syaoran."
"Oh." Syaoran. What was he doing now? Did he miss me.? God, it's not even been one day. How can I survive without him and Tomoyo and Eriol and Meiling?? Beijing. That sounded so wrong on my tongue.
"Yo, Kinomoto? You all right? You're a bit spaced out since I met you here an hour ago. We're going to be landing soon you know."
I nodded but I didn't answer. Instead I turned my head and looked outside at the beautiful night sky. I felt like I was flying among the stars.
Among the stars. Soft lyrical music came to me. I closed my eyes and let the memory sink into me. Yes, I could hear the piano and the lights on me as acted out the play last year when Syaoran was still her. A sweet romantic story, it was.
*** Flashback ***
"Whenever sang my songs On the stage, on my own Whenever said my words Wishing they would be heard I saw you smiling at me Was it real or just my fantasy? You'd always be there in the corner Of this tiny little bar"
My voice drifted over the crowd beautifully, Tomoyo accompanying me on the piano and Rika played the flute. It was a love story, one about a young lady, a singer in a pub who falls in love with a man. I smiled. It was such a sweet story. This song was for the man she loved, but was not here in the pub that day. I smiled. Syaoran was that man and I was the woman. "My last night here for you Same old songs, just once more My last night here with you? Maybe yes, maybe no I kind of liked it your way How you shyly placed your eyes on me Oh, did you ever know That I had mine on you?"
His eyes, those sweet eyes melted me every time. He would attend the pub every time I would be singing there. I could see in his eyes that he wanted to talk to me. I smiled. It was yesterday when he came up to me to say hi. He was no nervous he couldn't get a word out of his mouth except "hi."
It was just like how Syaoran greeted me in mornings when we were in fourth grade. "Darling, so there you are With that look on your face As if you're never hurt As if you're never down Shall I be the one for you Who pinches you softly but sure If frown is shown then I will know that you are no dreamer"
I will always be there for you Syaoran. "So let me come to you Close as I wanted to be Close enough for me To feel your heart beating fast And stay there as I whisper How I loved your peaceful eyes on me Did you ever know That I had mine on you?"
I closed my eyes and let the music sink into me. I loved it when I was in his arms. It always made me feel better and so much in love. "Darling, so share with me Your love if you have enough Your tears if you're holding back Or pain if that's what it is How can I let you know I'm more than the dress and the voice Just reach me out then You will know that you're not dreaming"
I love you. "Darling, so there you are With that look on your face As if you're never hurt As if you're never down Shall I be the one for you Who pinches you softly but sure If frown is shown then I will know That you are no dreamer"
I smiled. Syaoran had rushed in the pub at my last line, his brown hair messier than usual, panting hard. I walked over to him dazed as he smiled and gently pulled on my hand. I followed him to another room in the play. He reached into his pocket and asked me to marry him.
*** Present ***
I smiled remembering on that moment. His amber eyes and sincere smile. It almost made me wish that he would propose to me with that sweet sexy look of his. Syaoran. I'm going to miss you, and I'm never ever going to forget you. I promise you that.
"Wish upon a star," I turned suddenly to see who had talked. That voice sounded familiar. "Come on, Sakura. Wish upon a star!" the voice continued. I looked out the window. The voice came again. "Ahhhh! Hurry! There's a shooting star!"
A soft smile played on my lips. Oh Syaoran. He had a thing with wishing stars and I always found it fun to tease him about it. A shooting star grazed across the velvet night sky. I smiled and placed a hand lightly on the window.
"This wish is for you, Syaoran-kun. I hope that you're happy." I mouthed quietly as I saw the promise God drew in the sky.
*** Hong Kong. Syaoran's POV ***
I was outside on my balcony, relaxing and trying to get my thoughts settle. Meiling was too loud inside for she was talking a hundred words per second on the phone with my sisters. Earlier I had begged her to say that I wasn't home. I had to pay her a hundred NT (Chinese money here. Not American dollars!). She always knew how to get around me. I sighed and leaned on the railing comfortably.
"Syaoran!" A voice whined playfully. I spun around. No one was there. I had closed the door and I could only see a mute version of Meiling talking enthusiastically on the phone. I shrugged. Probably my imagination.
"Syaoran! Wishing on star?" the voice said again in a familiar teasing voice. Wishing on a star? I did wish on stars. come to think of it, I hadn't in a long time. I looked up at the sparkling diamonds up above and it gave me comfort just to see them.
"A shooting star! But I don't know what to wish for!" The female voice said worriedly. "Ah! I just wish that Syaoran-kun will be happy!" The voice hurriedly whispered. I smiled softly and followed the shooting star that was actually happening with my finger.
Sakura.
Wait. Where did that come from? That girl who was talking. was Sakura? How did I know that? I'm remembering some things. Why does she have to leave now?
What do I wish for? I don't even know what I want now.
*** Beijing airport. Third POV **
"Come on Kinomoto. This airport is especially hard to pass through and get the luggage. I don't want to stay in here a moment longer." Ryoko urged the girl to hurry up. The honey colored girl nodded and quickly ran up to her redhead friend.
"Oh right. You're on the track team. Remind me next time will you?" He teased playfully. Sakura laughed.
"Alright then, guitar lover. Let's hope that you can keep up with me, especially with that HS of yours." Ryoko laughed out loud and the two of us just stood there for a while laughing.
"I can see why Syaoran loves spending time with you." He said after the laughter died down and the two of us were drying our eyes. I smiled softly at his comment. He loved spending time with me? I don't know how he felt.. But that's how I felt towards him.
"Arigato." I said quietly. He studied for a moment before nodding.
"Come on. I want to meet your dad. My father's talked about your dad for ages now." He said with a bright grin. I nodded and followed him along.
*** Hong Kong. Third POV. A week after Sakura's flight to Beijing. ***
"Hmm. Sweetness, morning!" Eriol called out in a singsong voice. Tomoyo opened her light purple eyes and smiled.
"Is breakfast ready?" She joked. He grinned.
"If I say so myself. The pancakes are fresh from the frying pan and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice to go with it." Eriol replied with a bow. She raised her eyebrow.
"You better not be kidding me," Tomoyo stated as she got out from bed and walked to the kitchen.
"Will wonders never cease, Eriol Hiiragizawa!" the girl exclaimed upon seeing a plate of hot pancakes with a glass of orange juice next to it. "How sweet of you!" She said happily, giving her boyfriend a kiss on the cheek. He smiled and wrapped an arm around him.
"Well, it's to make up for waking you early." He mumbled.
"What did you say?" She asked sweetly. Eriol shook his head and pulled the chair for her to sit down. Tomoyo sat down while Eriol slid the seat in.
"Arigato, Eriol-kun." Tomoyo sincerely thanked him. "Hmmm. this tastes wonderful!" She praised, taking another bite. He nodded.
"I'm glad you like it." Eriol replied. Tomoyo smiled and she looked around the room. Her eyes wandered to the clock hanging in the small apartment the two had rented after Sakura left for Beijing.
Eriol sweat dropped and hoped the girl wouldn't notice. He peaked a look at the girl. She was humming softly, tapping the fork on the table. It was only the matter of time now.
5..
4..
3.
2..
1..
"Eriol-kun?" She asked. Eriol looked up into her eyes.
"H-Hai?" He asked.
She placed her fork in the table and wiped her mouth on a napkin with manners. "Why aren't you eating yet?" She asked.
Relief. She didn't notice. "I am. Just after you're done." He replied earnestly. Tomoyo smiled at him.
"That's awfully sweet of you," She replied with another of those dazzling smiles she always gave him.
"And, Eriol?" She continued. Eriol looked at her from his breakfast. "Don't wake me up at four in morning will you? I told you, you needed to get new glasses."
"Uhh.Hai." He stuttered. Darn! He knew nothing could escape her observant eyes.
"What do you think Sakura's doing right now?" Tomoyo changed the topic. She didn't want to be mad at him. After all, it was kind of nice waking early in the morning and having fresh homemade breakfast ready.
"Last time she called, she was complaining how hard the math was," Eriol replied with a grin. Tomoyo nodded her head.
"I wish I can be there, to give her support." She said, longing to be with her best friend. "I'm glad that Kai and her father are there."
"Same here. Kai's becoming a great friend of hers. and he's also a great friend of Syaoran's too, if I haven't heard correctly," Her boyfriend agreed. Tomoyo sighed and leaned back on her chair.
"Let's go visit Meiling, okay?" She asked.
"Sure. I'm worried about my cute little descendent as well." Purple eyes met blue eyes before the two nodded and walked towards the Li's mansion.
"Mr. Hiiragizawa, Ms. Daidouji, welcome." Wei greeted formally but with a kind smile that lit his friendly face up.
"Wei," Tomoyo replied, bowing to show respect. Eriol did the same.
"Come inside. Meiling's been most eager to see your presence." He continued with another smile. "This way," he led them into the huge living room where Meiling was arguing with Syaoran, which was nothing unusual of course.
"Tomoyo! Eriol!" She shouted once she saw the two. She bounded across Syaoran, totally forgetting the fight the two were in to her friends. "Its' been ages since you've been at my house!"
"Your house?" Syaoran asked indignantly. Meiling turned around and stuck her tongue out playfully.
"Aunt Yelan said it was my house as much as it is yours, so there!" She shot back with a childish grin. Syaoran shook his head annoyed.
"I'm glad to see you in good spirits, my cute descendent." Eriol greeted mischievously.
"I'm not cute and I'm definitely not your descendent." He growled back. Eriol chuckled.
"Friendly as ever, aren't we?" He said with a smile, the smile that he knew Syaoran found so annoying.
"Whatever. What are you guys doing here anyhow?" He grumbled.
"Touchy!" Meiling said in mock anger. "Well, they are our friends, Li Xiao Lang. Or have you forgotten that?"
Instead of a quick mean repartee as she expected, Syaoran was silent and didn't say much. The three stared at him before exchanging a questioning look.
"Don't you all look at me," Meiling said in a furious whisper. "I've tried to get him to tell me what's wrong, but he's got his lips sealed."
Tomoyo nodded and looked worriedly at the boy who was sitting on the couch by himself. She took a deep breath and walked quietly over to him.
"Syaoran?" She asked. He shifted his body weight uncomfortably. Tomoyo sighed and sat down beside him. "We're all worried about Sakura you know. You're not the only one."
"Who said I was thinking about her?" Syaoran said unnaturally loud. Meiling was about to yell at him as always, but Eriol held her back.
"You aren't? You're hardly like yourself all week. You don't even go to track practice. Is it because of Sakura? I knew how close you guys were and are now. You miss her by your side, don't you?" Tomoyo said softly, her voice almost seemed as if she were talking to herself.
"I don't go to track meets is because I need to train." Syaoran denied.
"Deny it all you want, Li Xiao Lang. I've known you since you stepped into our school in fourth grade. I'm both your friend and Sakura's. I know two sides of the story." She stated clearly. There was no denying that and Syaoran knew that. He didn't even bother thinking of something to say back.
"You're trying to remember her, aren't you?"
She was met by silence. Tomoyo patted her friend on the back before retreating out the room, letting the young man settle his own thoughts.
*** In Beijing. Still Third POV ***
"Sakura!!" Kero yelled.
"What now?" Sakura yelled back.
"Your tutor's going to be here in ten minutes! That redhead too!" Kero called across the house. He was in the living room comfortably eating cookies that were meant for the tutor and watching TV.
Sakura, her father and Kero lived in an apartment with two rooms, a living room and a kitchen. It was perfect in size and comfortable. Above her flat, two floors up was where Ryoko Kai lived. The two had become really great friends in the short period of time. Maybe it was because of the interest in music. Often Sakura sang while Ryoko strummed his HS guitar. Maybe because it was the need of someone familiar in a new place.
Maybe it was because he was one of the best friends of Syaoran. Whatever reason it was, Sakura didn't care. She was glad that she had a friend, but she still missed those in Hong Kong and in Japan as well.
"Sakura!!!" Kero's voice was unbearably loud.
"Kero shut up! The neighbor's will hear you and stop eating the cookies!" Sakura shot back as she quickly finished typing the letter to Tomoyo.
Tomoyo: miss you tons. Write back soon. Very quick e. have tutoring next. At least it's music! Yay! Kai's awsm on the guitar. Anyhow, later. Send everyone a hug. ---Sakura. PS.. How's Syaoran?
A speeding yellow doll flew past her as Sakura opened the door to go to the living room. "Kero?"
"That redhead's at the front door. He knocked." He panted. "Turn the TV off for me, will you?" Kero said quickly, waving his paws dramatically with a cookie in each hand.
"Kero!" Sakura complained.
"SHHH!" Came the reply. "And the redhead's still at the door."
"Hoee!" Sakura dashed to the door and opened it.
"Ohayo Kinomoto." Kai greeted. He had a white shirt and black jeans on and slung over is shoulder was the case with his precious guitar inside.
"Ohayo!" Sakura greeted back with a smile. "Come on in!" She opened the door wider and Kai entered.
"I'll get the snacks." She hurriedly said hiding the empty cookie basket behind her back. "I'll be right back. Make yourself comfortable,"
Ryoko nodded and sat crossed legged on the floor. Some photo albums lay across the table and he picked it up. Sakura came back to see him chuckling lightly over some pictures.
"What's so funny?" She asked, peering over his shoulder.
"You and Syaoran look so adorable in this picture! I never knew he smiled back then." He commented. Sakura's eyes went distant as she looked at the picture taken in fourth grade. A younger version of her and a younger version of Syaoran were smiling brightly at the person taking the picture, most likely Tomoyo.
"It took him a while to," Sakura replied, taking the picture over in her hands and caressing the faces.
"What happened between you two? You seem sad whenever I mention his name." Ryoko asked. Sakura was about to answer when the doorbell rang. Leaping for the door, she was saved from answering.
"Ah, ohayo my two favorite students!" A young man with gelled black hair in a cool fashion with a black shirt and khakis came through the door. He was young in his late twenties.
"Alright. I want you guys to practice this utterly sweet romantic song for the contest I entered you guys in next month."
"What! You entered us in?" Sakura said unbelievably. Her teacher nodded and smiled.
"You'll do fine, Kinomoto."
"So, what song?" Ryoko asked smoothly. Their teacher grinned.
"It's a long song called 'Only Hope,' by Mandy Moore. It's manly accompanied by the piano, though I'm adding a guitar background too. The piano part will be played by this guy I know around your age. His name's Jeff."
"Okay~" Ryoko said with a grin. "This is going to be totally awesome!"
"Alright! Kinomoto, you in?" Her teacher asked, totally enthusiastic.
"H-Hai!" Sakura answered.
"Okay, so here's the music score. Practice tonight; meet you guys tomorrow in front of the musical recording station downtown. Just take the taxi or the bus." He nodded as if he was agreeing with his own words. "I got to go, I still need to talk this over with Jeff."
With a hurry goodbye, Ryoko and Sakura were the only ones left. After a while though, Ryoko left when a phone call asked to him come home. Sakura was left by herself as she went to the balcony where it overlooked the city. Taking out the music, she sang the lyrics softly. (I do not own Mandy Moore's Only Hope)
There's a song that's inside of my soul.
It's the one that I've tried to write over, and over again.
I'm awake in the infinite cold.
But you sing to me over, and over, and over again. So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours.
I know now, you're my only hope. Sing to me the song of the stars.
Of your galaxy dancing and laughing, and laughing again.
When it feels like my dreams are so far.
Sing to me of the plans that you have for me over again. So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours.
I know now, you're my only hope. I give you my destiny.
I'm givin' you all of me.
I want your symphony, singing in all that I am. At the top of my lungs, I'm givin' it back. So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hand and pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours.
I know now, you're my only hope. Hmm.Mmmm.Ooooo Her voice drifted over the streets and over the town. Her emotions flowed with the sweet lyrics. A few teardrops found their way down the girl's cheeks and flowed with the wind.
This song would be for Syaoran.
*** How was it??? Gomen this chapter was a bit late and that it was a bit song-y. I don't know.. I just like all these songs and when I hear them, I just have this tingling feeling. I don't know, but I kind of like expressing myself with music. Anyhow, please email or review about the name Ryoko! ~Rainbow dreamer
By Rainbow Dreamer and co-author Cryst and Ying Fa
*Dedicated to Cryst and Ying Fa, who have helped me with this story. If it weren't for you both, none of this would of happened. Arigato.
DISCLAIMER: I do NOT, I repeat, I do NOT own CCS. It belongs to Clamp! I think you all know though, that this story is my own and every idea is of my own. Yep.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Ano. someone mentioned to me that, um. this is SO embarrassing.. That Ryoko is actually a girl's name from Tenchi. Gosh, that was sooo hard for me to say! I just didn't know, I swear. I don't watch Tenchi and I THOUGHT I made the name up. so, I just wanted to apologize. You readers, get to decide on the future of this redhead. Do you guys want to change his name? I can change all his names into another, but I'll need some suggestions. Or do you want to keep him as he is now? Tell me in your reviews or send me an email. Onegai! My email address is: rainbow_dreams@email.com.
AND!!! Thanks to Ying Fa, my great co-author who corrects my every mistake. Gomen to all you readers out there.. Sakura is leaving to Beijing for THREE months, NOT one. I corrected that mistake and have updated the corrected version. Arigato, Ying Fa!
Oh, another apology. This chapter, the redhead is still Ryoko Kai. Gomen! Deeply embarrassed, Rainbow Dreamer (
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Li Syaoran is so Kakoii: Thanks for wishing me luck on my midterms! I'm glad you like this story!
Anonymous: Yep! Here I am again, with a new chapter!
Usagi yf: Hehe.. I wish there were time gaps as well! Here's the next chapter you've been waiting for soooo long!
Aishiteru: Thanks for wishing me luck on my midterms as well! Though I did pass. it was not through flying colors! LoL.
Sakurakawaiicherry (SKC): I'm glad you think it's so kawaii~~
Tina: welcome back girlfriend! Hehe. I'm psyched out that you're still reading my fic! Thanks for both of your reviews, for chapter 16 and 17
AngelSakura: Thanks for wishing me luck. I'm just glad that they're over! (
CCStarry: Such a great complement! I'm super duper happy that you like my fic!
Ying Fa: Gosh girl. you write lots. not that I mind because I do that as well. I'm so happy that you're back on fanfiction again. I'm glad that you like the line that Kaho said about friendship. My mother taught me that! Hehe. I love her. Anyhow, thanks a ton for your constructive feedback and all four of your long reviews! I love receiving them! And thanks once again for catching all my mistakes! LOL
Cherry Princess: Don't cry! *Hands you a tissue * to comfort you, here's the next chapter!
Cherri: I'm going to try my best to get one chapter up each week. Trying hard here! Better pray I don't get writer's block. LoL
Cherryz Angel: Girl, do I need to thank you! You've granted me three wishes! Oh thank you, my fairy godmother! And my life Syaoran. hmmmm.. Still searching! How about some hints godmother?? LOL. Love your reviews. so funny!
Kirei Ayumi: You're a pretty smart girl. about that "magic" about Kali. Now who said she has magic? Hmmm??? Hehe. I'm pleased that you love my story. *Blushes * it's your favorite! Aww~~
Keetra: thanks for the luck! ( I'll try to make this a happier fic. although I can't be that kawaii with Syaoran gone. Hm. Just read and you'll see what I have in store.
Kawaii-Cherry Wolf: Aiee! Stop crying! You're going to make me cry as well.
Lilyflower: Hm. Just finished mine. Did soo bad. anyhow! Focus not on my midterms; it should be on my fic! And don't you start crying too! *Grabs a tissue *
PnaixRose8: Don't you cry too! That's four crying! *Sobs along with you all * LoL. Don't take that personally. As for what's going to happen. Hehe. Just read!
Werid-N-Nextdoor: I'll try my best to write better chapters. Better as in not that sad or what??
Idiot2002: Sorry that I've made Sakura seem like a crybaby. but think about it. My bf dumped me and that was painful enough! Anyhow, don't take it personally. I'm glad that you're reading my fic and you're welcome to make any constructive feedback that will make the story better! And I will try to make Sakura cry less. (
LASTLY, BUT NOT LEAST, thank you all! Gosh! Just look at all those reviews! Love you guys! Rainbow dreamer.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: Wish Upon a Star
*** Sakura's POV ***
I drummed my fingers on the table that folds out from the seat in front of you impatiently. Kero looked at me warily, trying to pretend to be a doll. He had promised to stay stiff and would eat inside my bag. I knew he was watching over me and I was happy about that, but my thoughts just wouldn't settle.
"Sakura? What's wrong?" he asked my telepathically, making me jump a bit. I looked at him and he looked back, his eyes raised. "So. still thinking about that gaki. I mean Li?"
"Shut up Kero." I answered back mentally, giving him a glare. "I'm just thinking."
"I think you've spent too much with him," He grumbled. "You're even starting to glare like him, not to mention your attitude as well. I was just trying to be nice." He shot back.
"Oh. gomen, Kero. Really. I'm just kind of stressed out. Things are just happening so quickly that I can't focus." I apologized, now conscious of the way I was acting. Kero gave me a lopsided smile, since he was still trying to act like a stuff doll.
"Hey.. What do you know?" A familiar voice greeted me. I turned around and found myself looking into a pair of pale green eyes.
"Kai?" I asked, surprised. What was he doing on the plane? Wasn't he at school? He grinned at me.
"Well, my dad he's a great archeologist as well, Kinomoto. He's in the same team as your father I believe. I guess we're stuck with his together." He was still grinning when he offered me his hand. I smiled softly and shook his hand.
"Geez, three months! I can't believe we're going to be in Beijing for so long!" He said lazily as he sat into the empty seat next to me as we talked. I nodded.
"Yeah, I guess." I said quietly.
"You okay?" he asked, peering at me. I smiled and shook my head.
"Gomen. I just miss my friends and all. It was hard leaving them. and I still had some.. Unfinished business, I guess you can say." I mumbled.
"Sorry to hear that." Kai answered. "It's sure a bummer leaving your friends behind, let me tell you that. I've moved more than enough."
"Yeah.." I sighed mentally.
"Sakura?" Kero's voice questioned, gently probing. I knew he had heard my sigh. Meanwhile though, he was safely in my bag once he saw Ryoko coming. A slight smile played on my lips.
"I'm all right Kero." I answered back. I could just picture him with his eyebrow raised, giving me that skeptical look that he must have got from Touya. I giggled.
"What's so funny Kinomoto?" Ryoko asked, snapping his fingers in front of my face. I blushed immediately.
"Gomen. I just thought of something." I said with a smile.
"Hmph. Whatever!" Kero mind spoke furiously. That just made me smile a bit wider. Ryoko gave me one of those weird looks, but didn't question, being the gentleman that he was.
"So, are you being home schooled as well?" he asked me as we ate the snacks the flight attendant had given us. I nodded.
"Hai." Ryoko grinned, his pale green eyes twinkling.
"Awesome. Want to bet that we get tutored together?" He asked.
"We are?" Blink. Blink. That never occurred to me. His light laughter brought me back to the present.
"Kinomoto, I can see why you have so many friends. You're just so easy to get along with." Ryoko commented breezily, his hands tuck behind his head as he leaned back comfortably on the chair.
"You're just as well to get along with and you have equally the same amount of friends." I replied back sincerely. He turned and flashed me a smile.
"Ah, you're just being modest. Me? I usually hang around with my baby HS and Syaoran."
"Oh." Syaoran. What was he doing now? Did he miss me.? God, it's not even been one day. How can I survive without him and Tomoyo and Eriol and Meiling?? Beijing. That sounded so wrong on my tongue.
"Yo, Kinomoto? You all right? You're a bit spaced out since I met you here an hour ago. We're going to be landing soon you know."
I nodded but I didn't answer. Instead I turned my head and looked outside at the beautiful night sky. I felt like I was flying among the stars.
Among the stars. Soft lyrical music came to me. I closed my eyes and let the memory sink into me. Yes, I could hear the piano and the lights on me as acted out the play last year when Syaoran was still her. A sweet romantic story, it was.
*** Flashback ***
"Whenever sang my songs On the stage, on my own Whenever said my words Wishing they would be heard I saw you smiling at me Was it real or just my fantasy? You'd always be there in the corner Of this tiny little bar"
My voice drifted over the crowd beautifully, Tomoyo accompanying me on the piano and Rika played the flute. It was a love story, one about a young lady, a singer in a pub who falls in love with a man. I smiled. It was such a sweet story. This song was for the man she loved, but was not here in the pub that day. I smiled. Syaoran was that man and I was the woman. "My last night here for you Same old songs, just once more My last night here with you? Maybe yes, maybe no I kind of liked it your way How you shyly placed your eyes on me Oh, did you ever know That I had mine on you?"
His eyes, those sweet eyes melted me every time. He would attend the pub every time I would be singing there. I could see in his eyes that he wanted to talk to me. I smiled. It was yesterday when he came up to me to say hi. He was no nervous he couldn't get a word out of his mouth except "hi."
It was just like how Syaoran greeted me in mornings when we were in fourth grade. "Darling, so there you are With that look on your face As if you're never hurt As if you're never down Shall I be the one for you Who pinches you softly but sure If frown is shown then I will know that you are no dreamer"
I will always be there for you Syaoran. "So let me come to you Close as I wanted to be Close enough for me To feel your heart beating fast And stay there as I whisper How I loved your peaceful eyes on me Did you ever know That I had mine on you?"
I closed my eyes and let the music sink into me. I loved it when I was in his arms. It always made me feel better and so much in love. "Darling, so share with me Your love if you have enough Your tears if you're holding back Or pain if that's what it is How can I let you know I'm more than the dress and the voice Just reach me out then You will know that you're not dreaming"
I love you. "Darling, so there you are With that look on your face As if you're never hurt As if you're never down Shall I be the one for you Who pinches you softly but sure If frown is shown then I will know That you are no dreamer"
I smiled. Syaoran had rushed in the pub at my last line, his brown hair messier than usual, panting hard. I walked over to him dazed as he smiled and gently pulled on my hand. I followed him to another room in the play. He reached into his pocket and asked me to marry him.
*** Present ***
I smiled remembering on that moment. His amber eyes and sincere smile. It almost made me wish that he would propose to me with that sweet sexy look of his. Syaoran. I'm going to miss you, and I'm never ever going to forget you. I promise you that.
"Wish upon a star," I turned suddenly to see who had talked. That voice sounded familiar. "Come on, Sakura. Wish upon a star!" the voice continued. I looked out the window. The voice came again. "Ahhhh! Hurry! There's a shooting star!"
A soft smile played on my lips. Oh Syaoran. He had a thing with wishing stars and I always found it fun to tease him about it. A shooting star grazed across the velvet night sky. I smiled and placed a hand lightly on the window.
"This wish is for you, Syaoran-kun. I hope that you're happy." I mouthed quietly as I saw the promise God drew in the sky.
*** Hong Kong. Syaoran's POV ***
I was outside on my balcony, relaxing and trying to get my thoughts settle. Meiling was too loud inside for she was talking a hundred words per second on the phone with my sisters. Earlier I had begged her to say that I wasn't home. I had to pay her a hundred NT (Chinese money here. Not American dollars!). She always knew how to get around me. I sighed and leaned on the railing comfortably.
"Syaoran!" A voice whined playfully. I spun around. No one was there. I had closed the door and I could only see a mute version of Meiling talking enthusiastically on the phone. I shrugged. Probably my imagination.
"Syaoran! Wishing on star?" the voice said again in a familiar teasing voice. Wishing on a star? I did wish on stars. come to think of it, I hadn't in a long time. I looked up at the sparkling diamonds up above and it gave me comfort just to see them.
"A shooting star! But I don't know what to wish for!" The female voice said worriedly. "Ah! I just wish that Syaoran-kun will be happy!" The voice hurriedly whispered. I smiled softly and followed the shooting star that was actually happening with my finger.
Sakura.
Wait. Where did that come from? That girl who was talking. was Sakura? How did I know that? I'm remembering some things. Why does she have to leave now?
What do I wish for? I don't even know what I want now.
*** Beijing airport. Third POV **
"Come on Kinomoto. This airport is especially hard to pass through and get the luggage. I don't want to stay in here a moment longer." Ryoko urged the girl to hurry up. The honey colored girl nodded and quickly ran up to her redhead friend.
"Oh right. You're on the track team. Remind me next time will you?" He teased playfully. Sakura laughed.
"Alright then, guitar lover. Let's hope that you can keep up with me, especially with that HS of yours." Ryoko laughed out loud and the two of us just stood there for a while laughing.
"I can see why Syaoran loves spending time with you." He said after the laughter died down and the two of us were drying our eyes. I smiled softly at his comment. He loved spending time with me? I don't know how he felt.. But that's how I felt towards him.
"Arigato." I said quietly. He studied for a moment before nodding.
"Come on. I want to meet your dad. My father's talked about your dad for ages now." He said with a bright grin. I nodded and followed him along.
*** Hong Kong. Third POV. A week after Sakura's flight to Beijing. ***
"Hmm. Sweetness, morning!" Eriol called out in a singsong voice. Tomoyo opened her light purple eyes and smiled.
"Is breakfast ready?" She joked. He grinned.
"If I say so myself. The pancakes are fresh from the frying pan and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice to go with it." Eriol replied with a bow. She raised her eyebrow.
"You better not be kidding me," Tomoyo stated as she got out from bed and walked to the kitchen.
"Will wonders never cease, Eriol Hiiragizawa!" the girl exclaimed upon seeing a plate of hot pancakes with a glass of orange juice next to it. "How sweet of you!" She said happily, giving her boyfriend a kiss on the cheek. He smiled and wrapped an arm around him.
"Well, it's to make up for waking you early." He mumbled.
"What did you say?" She asked sweetly. Eriol shook his head and pulled the chair for her to sit down. Tomoyo sat down while Eriol slid the seat in.
"Arigato, Eriol-kun." Tomoyo sincerely thanked him. "Hmmm. this tastes wonderful!" She praised, taking another bite. He nodded.
"I'm glad you like it." Eriol replied. Tomoyo smiled and she looked around the room. Her eyes wandered to the clock hanging in the small apartment the two had rented after Sakura left for Beijing.
Eriol sweat dropped and hoped the girl wouldn't notice. He peaked a look at the girl. She was humming softly, tapping the fork on the table. It was only the matter of time now.
5..
4..
3.
2..
1..
"Eriol-kun?" She asked. Eriol looked up into her eyes.
"H-Hai?" He asked.
She placed her fork in the table and wiped her mouth on a napkin with manners. "Why aren't you eating yet?" She asked.
Relief. She didn't notice. "I am. Just after you're done." He replied earnestly. Tomoyo smiled at him.
"That's awfully sweet of you," She replied with another of those dazzling smiles she always gave him.
"And, Eriol?" She continued. Eriol looked at her from his breakfast. "Don't wake me up at four in morning will you? I told you, you needed to get new glasses."
"Uhh.Hai." He stuttered. Darn! He knew nothing could escape her observant eyes.
"What do you think Sakura's doing right now?" Tomoyo changed the topic. She didn't want to be mad at him. After all, it was kind of nice waking early in the morning and having fresh homemade breakfast ready.
"Last time she called, she was complaining how hard the math was," Eriol replied with a grin. Tomoyo nodded her head.
"I wish I can be there, to give her support." She said, longing to be with her best friend. "I'm glad that Kai and her father are there."
"Same here. Kai's becoming a great friend of hers. and he's also a great friend of Syaoran's too, if I haven't heard correctly," Her boyfriend agreed. Tomoyo sighed and leaned back on her chair.
"Let's go visit Meiling, okay?" She asked.
"Sure. I'm worried about my cute little descendent as well." Purple eyes met blue eyes before the two nodded and walked towards the Li's mansion.
"Mr. Hiiragizawa, Ms. Daidouji, welcome." Wei greeted formally but with a kind smile that lit his friendly face up.
"Wei," Tomoyo replied, bowing to show respect. Eriol did the same.
"Come inside. Meiling's been most eager to see your presence." He continued with another smile. "This way," he led them into the huge living room where Meiling was arguing with Syaoran, which was nothing unusual of course.
"Tomoyo! Eriol!" She shouted once she saw the two. She bounded across Syaoran, totally forgetting the fight the two were in to her friends. "Its' been ages since you've been at my house!"
"Your house?" Syaoran asked indignantly. Meiling turned around and stuck her tongue out playfully.
"Aunt Yelan said it was my house as much as it is yours, so there!" She shot back with a childish grin. Syaoran shook his head annoyed.
"I'm glad to see you in good spirits, my cute descendent." Eriol greeted mischievously.
"I'm not cute and I'm definitely not your descendent." He growled back. Eriol chuckled.
"Friendly as ever, aren't we?" He said with a smile, the smile that he knew Syaoran found so annoying.
"Whatever. What are you guys doing here anyhow?" He grumbled.
"Touchy!" Meiling said in mock anger. "Well, they are our friends, Li Xiao Lang. Or have you forgotten that?"
Instead of a quick mean repartee as she expected, Syaoran was silent and didn't say much. The three stared at him before exchanging a questioning look.
"Don't you all look at me," Meiling said in a furious whisper. "I've tried to get him to tell me what's wrong, but he's got his lips sealed."
Tomoyo nodded and looked worriedly at the boy who was sitting on the couch by himself. She took a deep breath and walked quietly over to him.
"Syaoran?" She asked. He shifted his body weight uncomfortably. Tomoyo sighed and sat down beside him. "We're all worried about Sakura you know. You're not the only one."
"Who said I was thinking about her?" Syaoran said unnaturally loud. Meiling was about to yell at him as always, but Eriol held her back.
"You aren't? You're hardly like yourself all week. You don't even go to track practice. Is it because of Sakura? I knew how close you guys were and are now. You miss her by your side, don't you?" Tomoyo said softly, her voice almost seemed as if she were talking to herself.
"I don't go to track meets is because I need to train." Syaoran denied.
"Deny it all you want, Li Xiao Lang. I've known you since you stepped into our school in fourth grade. I'm both your friend and Sakura's. I know two sides of the story." She stated clearly. There was no denying that and Syaoran knew that. He didn't even bother thinking of something to say back.
"You're trying to remember her, aren't you?"
She was met by silence. Tomoyo patted her friend on the back before retreating out the room, letting the young man settle his own thoughts.
*** In Beijing. Still Third POV ***
"Sakura!!" Kero yelled.
"What now?" Sakura yelled back.
"Your tutor's going to be here in ten minutes! That redhead too!" Kero called across the house. He was in the living room comfortably eating cookies that were meant for the tutor and watching TV.
Sakura, her father and Kero lived in an apartment with two rooms, a living room and a kitchen. It was perfect in size and comfortable. Above her flat, two floors up was where Ryoko Kai lived. The two had become really great friends in the short period of time. Maybe it was because of the interest in music. Often Sakura sang while Ryoko strummed his HS guitar. Maybe because it was the need of someone familiar in a new place.
Maybe it was because he was one of the best friends of Syaoran. Whatever reason it was, Sakura didn't care. She was glad that she had a friend, but she still missed those in Hong Kong and in Japan as well.
"Sakura!!!" Kero's voice was unbearably loud.
"Kero shut up! The neighbor's will hear you and stop eating the cookies!" Sakura shot back as she quickly finished typing the letter to Tomoyo.
Tomoyo: miss you tons. Write back soon. Very quick e. have tutoring next. At least it's music! Yay! Kai's awsm on the guitar. Anyhow, later. Send everyone a hug. ---Sakura. PS.. How's Syaoran?
A speeding yellow doll flew past her as Sakura opened the door to go to the living room. "Kero?"
"That redhead's at the front door. He knocked." He panted. "Turn the TV off for me, will you?" Kero said quickly, waving his paws dramatically with a cookie in each hand.
"Kero!" Sakura complained.
"SHHH!" Came the reply. "And the redhead's still at the door."
"Hoee!" Sakura dashed to the door and opened it.
"Ohayo Kinomoto." Kai greeted. He had a white shirt and black jeans on and slung over is shoulder was the case with his precious guitar inside.
"Ohayo!" Sakura greeted back with a smile. "Come on in!" She opened the door wider and Kai entered.
"I'll get the snacks." She hurriedly said hiding the empty cookie basket behind her back. "I'll be right back. Make yourself comfortable,"
Ryoko nodded and sat crossed legged on the floor. Some photo albums lay across the table and he picked it up. Sakura came back to see him chuckling lightly over some pictures.
"What's so funny?" She asked, peering over his shoulder.
"You and Syaoran look so adorable in this picture! I never knew he smiled back then." He commented. Sakura's eyes went distant as she looked at the picture taken in fourth grade. A younger version of her and a younger version of Syaoran were smiling brightly at the person taking the picture, most likely Tomoyo.
"It took him a while to," Sakura replied, taking the picture over in her hands and caressing the faces.
"What happened between you two? You seem sad whenever I mention his name." Ryoko asked. Sakura was about to answer when the doorbell rang. Leaping for the door, she was saved from answering.
"Ah, ohayo my two favorite students!" A young man with gelled black hair in a cool fashion with a black shirt and khakis came through the door. He was young in his late twenties.
"Alright. I want you guys to practice this utterly sweet romantic song for the contest I entered you guys in next month."
"What! You entered us in?" Sakura said unbelievably. Her teacher nodded and smiled.
"You'll do fine, Kinomoto."
"So, what song?" Ryoko asked smoothly. Their teacher grinned.
"It's a long song called 'Only Hope,' by Mandy Moore. It's manly accompanied by the piano, though I'm adding a guitar background too. The piano part will be played by this guy I know around your age. His name's Jeff."
"Okay~" Ryoko said with a grin. "This is going to be totally awesome!"
"Alright! Kinomoto, you in?" Her teacher asked, totally enthusiastic.
"H-Hai!" Sakura answered.
"Okay, so here's the music score. Practice tonight; meet you guys tomorrow in front of the musical recording station downtown. Just take the taxi or the bus." He nodded as if he was agreeing with his own words. "I got to go, I still need to talk this over with Jeff."
With a hurry goodbye, Ryoko and Sakura were the only ones left. After a while though, Ryoko left when a phone call asked to him come home. Sakura was left by herself as she went to the balcony where it overlooked the city. Taking out the music, she sang the lyrics softly. (I do not own Mandy Moore's Only Hope)
There's a song that's inside of my soul.
It's the one that I've tried to write over, and over again.
I'm awake in the infinite cold.
But you sing to me over, and over, and over again. So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours.
I know now, you're my only hope. Sing to me the song of the stars.
Of your galaxy dancing and laughing, and laughing again.
When it feels like my dreams are so far.
Sing to me of the plans that you have for me over again. So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours.
I know now, you're my only hope. I give you my destiny.
I'm givin' you all of me.
I want your symphony, singing in all that I am. At the top of my lungs, I'm givin' it back. So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hand and pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours I pray.
To be only yours.
I know now, you're my only hope. Hmm.Mmmm.Ooooo Her voice drifted over the streets and over the town. Her emotions flowed with the sweet lyrics. A few teardrops found their way down the girl's cheeks and flowed with the wind.
This song would be for Syaoran.
*** How was it??? Gomen this chapter was a bit late and that it was a bit song-y. I don't know.. I just like all these songs and when I hear them, I just have this tingling feeling. I don't know, but I kind of like expressing myself with music. Anyhow, please email or review about the name Ryoko! ~Rainbow dreamer