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: Gomen about the late chapter. The computer died on me when I was writing this and I didn't save it. My latest chapter has been lost! *Sobs * Anyhow, here I am writing it again.
From the reviews that I have received for this chapter, I announce that Ryoko Kai is here to stay. I like the name and many of you have also told me that Ryoko is also a guy's name. Yay!
Gomen for the song fics to all those who dislike them. I will keep watch of the number of songs I use. Thanks.
Meanwhile, that is all I have to say other than the usual, please review line, which I'm SURE that you all know! Thanks for your support! Rainbow dreamer
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Suki: Thanks! Here's the next chapter up!
Kirei Ayumi: I'm glad that Ryoko is also a guy's name, although I never knew it meant "demon summoner!" I didn't plan to have a negative connotation to his name, but hmmmm.. Anyhow, thanks for telling me.
Cherry princess: wowies is right girl! Hehe
Azn monkey: All right, all right! I won't let it dangle there. LOL. Here's the next chapter you wanted me so much to continue.
Chibi tenshi: sorry the last chapter was sad! Gomen, but glad you liked it.
Ying Fa: Okay, girl. I have lots to tell you, and I'll probably send you an email soon. Sorry I've been busy these days. Hmm. but for now, the song, I forgot to say was "Eyes on Me" by Faye Wong. It's the theme song in Final Fantasy 8. Such a sweet song right? Ryoko is on the trip. I couldn't let Sakura have all the fun right? Hehe. The star part was also a flashback. Sakura remembers the lines Syaoran said and vice versa. I'll add Kali's part in this chapter or in soon to be chapters.
Pnaixrose8: I'm glad you like the songs in this song. I'll try to keep the amount balanced though. And about Ryoko, read the author's note above. Thanks for loving my story so much, girl!
Kawaii cherry wolf: arigato girl. You've been here since the earliest chapters. It's been long! Thanks!
Cherry Angel: thanks for giving me that website! It was sooo kind of you and now I'm going to have fun adding characters here and there. Just kidding. Hehe. And me evil? Never! Hehe.
Usagi fy: Whoa there girl! That was a long review! And because of that, here's a long reply right back at you. Hehe. I won't make the story end right after Sakura sings, or at least I don't have it planned that way so far. You never know what my mind can think of at the last moment! Hehe. I'm so honored that you've promoted my story from a nice story to the greatest. Thanks ever so.
Cherry Princess: I'm glad you liked the songs! But what do you mean that 'I made the song played'?? And which song are you talking about? Eyes on Me or Only Hope? Now you've got me wondering! Hehe. I'm happy that you liked the kawaiiness in this chapter.
Keetra: Gomen, about the songs, but I'm glad that you told me. That way I will make sure the amount of song fics I put in a story. I'm not saying that I'm taking them all out, but I'll watch the number. Thanks for telling me that. And don't worry! Sakura will be coming back to HK. She's not going to be there forever! You have my word on that.
Lilyflower: You're the drama queen of my reviews. Hehe. Ryoko Kai will not be ruining S+S. at least I haven't planned that yet. *Sigh * I'm so evil! Hehe.
Idiot2002: I know that Ryoko is from Tenchi Muyo, said so in my last chapter's author note and I'm keeping Kai as Ryoko Kai. I kind of like him. Hmm. You're going to have lots more to be concerned about than just whether Kai will fall for Sakura or not after this chapter!
Okay, reader. What are you doing? Why are you reading this line? The chapter is down there you know. Yes, down there. LoL. I should stop playing with your minds. Anyhow, THANKS FOR THE REVIEWS!
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN:
*** Hong Kong. Third POV ***
A girl sat at an outside table in front of a coffee shop elegantly, her back perfectly straight in a well raised manner. Her long golden hair was tied into a long braid tied with a blue bow in the end. She was in a blue sundress and on the table was a straw hat with a blue ribbon that matched perfectly with her clothing. She was smiling and talking happily to another girl sitting across her. Her friend had long red hair cascading down her back and alike the blond, she was also well mannered and well dressed.
"We haven't met in years!" The blonde exclaimed. "I'm so glad that I've gotten the chance to talk to you. You know what's going to happen right?"
"Yes. I hope things will not as bad as I think it will be." Her friend replied.
"I hope so you, since your sixth sense is always quite accurate." The girl reminded. Her friend smiled grimly and nodded in agreement.
"Do you think she can manage it? You've known her longer than I have. From what you have told me, those have happened in the pass. That does not measure how well she will fare in what will come." The blonde continued in a more serious tone.
"No, but she has the capability to. Her determinacy, courage, and love for others are something that has not failed in the passing years. They have increased actually. I have full confidence that she will do well, but it is the young man that worries me."
"He is nothing to be worried about. I've spent a lot of time with him lately, although he's deep in thought most of the time to talk to me actually. He's trying to remember her."
"It's the test."
"Yes, but I don't like him to be in so much pain." The blonde countered. The redhead shook her head wisely.
"The girl has been as much pain as he."
"True, I guess."
"Saph, it's the truth. They both have been through great pains. True lovers destined to be together but only to be broken apart. That is more than enough pain." The redhead said firmly, her red eyes grave. Blue eyes met hers and the blonde nodded.
"I know." She replied sheepishly. Then she smiled. "It's been a long time before anyone has called me by my nickname."
"Time passes quickly and there are still much to do. You're meeting him tonight, ne?"
"Hai. Anything you need to know?" Saph asked. Her friend smiled gently and shook her head.
"Iie. Be nice to him though. He's starting to remember her."
"Be nice? Aren't I always?" She kidded. The friends laughed joyfully. "Well, I'll see you around then. He's picking me up at five."
"Have fun and call me when you have the time."
"Sure. Later," the blonde smiled and got up from her seat and walked gracefully down the road. She carried a sense of pride and greatness around her. There was something that most people didn't see in the inside.
*** Tomoyo and Eriol ***
"Sweetness, letter for you!" Eriol called to his girlfriend as he looked through the mail. "It seems to be from Beijing." He flipped the envelope to her who was sitting and sewing another article of clothing for Sakura.
"Arigato," She blew him a kiss, which he received dramatically, making her giggle. Opening the light blue envelope with delicate hands, she took out the letter inside. The papers crinkled as she spread it out to read. She skimmed it quickly and smiled.
"Eriol, listen to this," Tomoyo said, holding up the letter.
"Dear Tomoyo and Eriol,
It's been a week and a half already and things are going okay here in Beijing. I know I should be sending an email, but I wanted to write this personally okay? Let's see. You will not believe how utterly amazing Kai is on the guitar and Jeff, the other band member I told you about, is a piano classic. If you and Eriol weren't together, I'm sure you'd be gushing how cute and wonderful Jeff is. No offense to you Eriol, whom I know is listening to this as Tomoyo reads it out loud."
Eriol chuckled amiably as Tomoyo giggled over the line. He walked over to her and sat down next to her, sliding an arm around her waist and pulling her close. "Now you aren't crazy about Jeff are you?" He asked in a quiet sexy manner. Tomoyo giggled girly.
"Quit it. I can't think when you're so close to me!" Eriol grinned and pulled her closer.
"That's the whole point sweetness," He purred. Tomoyo giggled.
"Quit it Eriol-kun. Let me finish the letter."
"Fair enough." He stopped adding his weight on her but his arm never left her waist.
"The performance is next month on November 15th, a Friday. Sensei keeps telling me that I'll do fine, but I'm just so nervous. He's beginning to convince me to go for a singer and record my own songs and all. I don't know if I want this. I truly don't know. It's awesome singing songs and such, but I don't think I can manage it, being so far away from home. I miss you guys too much."
"Oh Sakura," Tomoyo sighed.
"Do you think she'll accept being a professional singer?" Eriol asked quietly. Tomoyo shrugged and looked at the paper.
"I don't know, but Sakura will want all of our support before she agrees. You know Sakura, she cares about us."
"True. Read on,"
Tomoyo nodded and cleared her throat. "How is Syaoran doing? I don't dare write to him and I often ask Meiling how he is. I'm worried about him. Meiling's told me that he's much more quiet and has been hanging around Kali lately. I don't know what to think about that. Kali's not a bad girl, not really. She just likes Syaoran and I don't have anything against that. I think. Things are confusing without you guys here."
"She still loves him." Tomoyo whispered almost inaudibly. Eriol brushed a tear that was making its way down his love's cheek. Tomoyo broke down crying and Eriol wrapped his arm around her. She laid her head in his chest, wanting to be closer to him.
"Shh." Eriol comforted, patting her back lightly. Tomoyo sniffed and dried her tears on his shirt. "Better?"
Tomoyo nodded, wiping her tears with both hands now. Eriol smiled lightly at how cute she was. "I wish I was there was more things I could help Sakura in. She needs that feeling of being safe and loved."
"Dear, you've done more than what's expected and Sakura knows that. There isn't a better person in the world except for you." The young man spoke gently and his words made sense. "And Sakura does feel loved, by all of her friends and family."
"I know that, but I just can't bear to see her so sad. Her letters are full of questions that I don't know the answer to. It just makes my heart ache."
"Sweetness, look at me." When Tomoyo didn't face him, Eriol gently cupped her head in his hands. "Remember our fight when you thought I was going out with another girl in England?"
Tomoyo's eyes shifted away and a slight blush came over to her face. "That's not something I'd like to think about. I was being a baka."
"No you weren't sweetness." Eriol spoke firmly. Her amethyst eyes locked onto his azure ones once more. "Remember after we mended? Remember what you told me, when I said I wanted to make it up to you?"
Tomoyo's eyes filled with emotion. "'There is no remedy for love but to love more' by Henry David Thoreau." She quoted. Eriol nodded.
"So all we have to do is to love Sakura Chan more and let her heart open once more. She's afraid of being rejected and now that she's in Beijing, the matters are worse."
Tomoyo nodded and kissed her boyfriend on the cheek. Eriol smiled and kissed her back on the nose. "Now, let's think what we can do to cheer our friend up." Their eyes wandered to the camera on the table. A pair of identical grins shined.
"A tape." The two whispered and grinned again. Grabbing the tape the two dashed out their apartment and hurriedly went outside.
*** Sakura. Beijing. ***
"Fantastic job Kinomoto!" Mr. Osyka, Sakura's music tutor exclaimed. "Wonderful! Spectacular!" He was standing up and clapping after Sakura performed the song "Only Hope" by Mandy Moore with Ryoko and Jeff.
"Thanks, Mr. Osyka. Some of it was Ryoko's and Jeff's." After two weeks of being together, the two guys had insisted that Sakura call them by their first name. The three friends got along well and with Jeff's girlfriend and friend, Alisha and Sandry.
"That was like, awesome dude!" Jeff greeted to Sakura and Ryoko. Sakura smiled.
"You know Jeff, I can never understand how I guy like you plays the piano. I mean it, you skate and all that." Jeff grinned playfully, showing off his white teeth. Around five feet ten with dirty blonde hair with dark black eyes gave him a sense of someone that was anything but a classical piano guy.
"Yeah well, Sakura you know me. I'm the weird one around here, right Alisha my babe?" Alisha laughed loudly. She was waiting for them to finish practice so they all could go out for lunch. Around Sakura's height, she had black hair like midnight with ebony eyes and a slightly tanned skin with high cheekbones that gave her a stunning look.
"Sakura, believe me. When we first met, he almost ran me over with his skates. Now the most romantic scene, but it was darn funny the way he dodged me and crashed over the ledge and did this dramatic flip and fell back down with one of his skates falling on his head. It was such a Kodak moment I tell you." Alisha said with a dreamy smile. Then she ruined the effect by laughing again.
"Whatever girl! I fell because of you!" Jeff shot back. Alisha grinned.
"And that's why I fell in love with you." She said with a smile and kissed him on the cheek. Sakura couldn't help feeling sad that she had no one to flirt and kiss with.
"You guys done over there?" A voice asked lightly with a slight accent. It was Sandry with her blonde hair tied into a French braid. Slightly shorter than the rest, she was the quiet and intelligent one.
"Yeah, yeah. Always a perfectionist, Sandry is." Jeff joked. Sandry flashed her golden brown eyes at him that made Jeff grin sheepishly.
"Sakura, you up to shopping with me later?" She asked quietly when they walked off for lunch. Sakura looked at her questionably. Sandry grinned.
"Is it that weird that I'm off my books today?" She joked, annoyed. She had recently gotten contacts and only wore glasses while studying.
Sakura laughed, her emerald eyes twinkling. "No," She said quickly. "Just us?"
"Yeah, a girl's thing you know? Alisha will come if we ask, but it seems like she wants to spend some quality time with Jeff since she hasn't seen him much because of the music practices."
"Sure, why not? What time then?" Sakura asked. Sandry shrugged.
"After lunch or something then. We'll be back before dinner though, I know you have to make dinner for you dad." She replied knowingly. Sakura smiled. Sandry was a close friend to her in a short matter of time.
"Hey Sandry, is Mike coming today?" Alisha called to her friend. Sandry shrugged.
"I called him this morning and he's coming whenever." She replied. It was a typical answer from Mike. Mike was just like that; everything was cool with him.
Lunch was at McDonalds and Mike end up coming and had an agreement to go play at the arcade with Ryoko, Jeff, and Alisha. It seemed like Ryoko was fitting in and Sakura was happy that he had somewhere to go.
*** Sakura's POV ***
"Got everything?" Sandry asked me as I grabbed my bag and locked the door behind me. "Keys?" she asked. I grinned and showed her my keys, which I then put into my bag.
"So, where are we going?" I asked casually. Sandry smiled.
"I was planning on going to the mall and just chill out. There should be a sale today, does that sound fine with you?" She asked. I nodded. I guess I like Sandry the best out of the crowd I hanged around with. Her personality kind of reminded me of Rika and that was somewhat comforting. I wondered how they were doing in Japan.
Spending time with Sandry got many things off my mind that afternoon. It was nice and pleasant change to shop and laugh with a friend. It was something I guess I lacked during this time during in Beijing. Maybe it was because I was afraid of something. What I was afraid of, I did not know. All I knew was that I liked spending time with Sandry and everyone else. Becoming friends with Ryoko was nice as well. He was like an older brother and a younger brother at times. But the afternoon with Sandry especially got my mind off Syaoran for the briefest moment. I couldn't help but to recall his warm arms around me and his wondrous scent he always had. The hardest thing to shake off was what he wanted to say to me that night I said goodbye. I missed him and from the letters Meiling, Tomoyo, and Eriol have sent me, he seemed distant to his old friends.
I don't think I'll ever forget that moment or any of the moments we've spent together. Syaoran, what are you doing now?
"Are you okay Sakura? You seem. off center somehow." Sandry asked worriedly over her milkshake. I smiled quickly.
"No, I'm okay. I had a wonderful time today. Thanks for taking me here." I replied sincerely. Sandry smiled, showing those cute dimples of hers.
"Anytime, Sakura. We're friends, count on it." Those simple words seemed to put some pieces together. Yes, I still had friends. And maybe, maybe Syaoran and me can be friends when I get back to Hong Kong. Who knows?
Sandry insisted walking me back home saying that I would definitely get lost. That made me laugh, thinking about all those times Meiling, Tomoyo, and Eriol had worried about me getting lost all the time.
"Kero! I'm home." I called, flicking on the light. I placed the keys on the table and tossed my bag on the couch. "Kero?" I asked, walking upstairs where light was coming in my room.
"Kero?" I opened the door to see him playing on his game boy again. I sighed; I guess I worry too much sometimes.
"So, how was shopping with Sandry? That was the first time you've shopped with someone since you've came here to Beijing?" Kero asked casually, but his face never left his game.
"Great." I replied, smiling at how caring Kero could be sometimes.
"Tomoyo sent a package. Actually Eriol did through his magic. He said it was something important and Tomoyo insisted on sending it the fastest way possible. You were out shopping so I put it on the table for you." I smiled my thanks and walked over to the package. I sat down on my bed and Kero paused his game to watch me open it.
"It's a. tape!" I exclaimed surprised. "That's awfully nice of them to do so."
Kero nodded. "Let's go watch it. I'll get the popcorn." He offered. I giggled.
"Kero." I said with a sigh. He just gave me a puppy face look before flying downstairs. Laughing I followed. So here I was, sitting in the living room with Kero and popcorn and drinks.
*** In the tape***
"Tomoyo, what's up with this taping again? Sakura's not here and there's no way I'm going to be your temporary model." Meiling said annoyed, but a twinkle in her ruby eyes showed that she was kidding around. Sakura could hear Tomoyo laugh.
"It's for Sakura. I'm sending her a video tape." Tomoyo whispered. Meiling's eyes grew wide and she immediately turned to the camera and going up close.
"HI SAKURA!" She said loudly. "You know, I'd kiss the screen right now to show you how much I miss you but Tomoyo will kill me for ruining her thousand dollar tape."
"Correction. It's five thousand." Eriol cut in. Tomoyo giggled and zoomed out to show Meiling and Eriol.
"Yes, yes. My mistake. I got confused with how much Eriol's new glasses cost."
"The exact amount, my dear friend is," Eriol said wisely.
" Nine hundred and fifty two," the two said in unison. They glared at each other before laughing loudly.
I laughed along. They knew exactly how to cheer her up.
"Quit it you two! I didn't film just to see you two bicker over the costs." Tomoyo replied.
"This is for Sakura-Chan I assume." A familiar voice stated. Tomoyo turned to see Kaho standing there with a pleasant smile.
"Ohayo sensei!" The three chirped. Kaho smiled.
"Ohayo, Tomoyo, Eriol, and Meiling." She smiled at the camera. "You too Sakura Chan. I've heard you're in the singing contest. I look forward in hearing you sing." Kaho nodded. "You have such great friends here and I assure you that everything's going alright here." She bowed and walked off.
"My turn!" I heard Meiling exclaim. She took over the camera and urged Eriol and Tomoyo to stand together.
"Now, we show you the sweetest couple on earth, Eriol and Tomoyo. They are even living together in a small apartment for one. Isn't' that so sweet?" Meiling said. Tomoyo blushed.
"Meiling!" She complained.
"It's the truth Tomoyo. I only say the truth."
"You never say the truth Meiling," A masculine voice countered. I felt my heart thumping. It was his voice.
"Ah! Now we introduce Syaoran Li, my all time favorite cousin." Meiling zooms in on him. Syaoran was scowling at having the camera so close to him.
"Quit filming me, Meiling," he growled, covering the screen.
"Aieee! My video!" Tomoyo shrieked playfully. A hitting sound was heard and the hand was taken away. Eriol chuckled.
"Nice of you to join us, my cute little descendent." Syaoran shot daggers at him.
"I'm not cute, little and I'm not your descendent." He replied.
Eriol shook his finger. "Task tsk. How rude, you do know that this is a film for Sakura-Chan don't you?"
Syaoran stood there for a while, not saying anything. Meiling zoomed in on his face. God, now perfect his features were. He was looking at the screen with intense, serious brown eyes. It was like he was staring hard at me. Then he suddenly walked off.
"Syaoran! You didn't even tell her anything." Tomoyo called after him. Syaoran stopped walking for a brief moment.
"Tell her I said hi." He said quietly and jogged off.
Tomoyo and Eriol shared a look. Clearly the look said, "at least we tried." I bit my lip from crying.
"Eriol, your turn to film!" Meiling called happily. Eriol nodded and obediently took over the camera. Meiling smiled into the camera once again.
"You just ignore what my dear cuz just said over there. He's been a little quiet these days that's all Sakura. He just gives the usual glares and such. Oh, and he's suddenly martial art practice crazy again. Can you believe it? Waking up at four and there is he, is the front yard waving that silly sword of his. Wakes me up, you know?" Meiling explained with huge moments of the hands.
She leaned closer to the camera. "Here, I'll tell you a secret. You see those bags under my eyes? They're because of him."
The camera was shaking a bit. Meiling backed away from the camera, her hands on her hip. "Stop laughing Eriol, it's not that funny!"
That made the camera shake a little more before it steadied. Tomoyo was giggling lightly. "Let's go see your teachers! Your track coach especially misses seeing you run." The three walked the familiar path to the track where the track practice was. Eriol filmed up to the coach. He grinned and waved to the camera.
"Kinomoto, when you coming back? I need you for the track meet second semester. You know, the real game? So, how about it? You better be prating over there, you hear me? My buddy Li here is working his butt off, right Li?" He had his arm around Syaoran and Syaoran managed to nod.
"That's right! You and Sakura always ran together right?" Tomoyo exclaimed. The coach answered for Syaoran.
"You should see them run. It's scary how exactly the same they are when they run."
I felt my eyes water up a bit. Kero noticed and patted my shoulder comforting and handed me a tissue. I smiled my thanks.
Syaoran was looking uncomfortably at the camera once again. "You alright?" I heard Eriol ask as he was filming. Syaoran shrugged and looked off the distance. Tomoyo and Meiling shared a look.
"Come on Xiao Lang, at least say something to the camera," Meiling asked. Syaoran looked at his favorite cousin.
"I don't know what to say," He whispered. Meiling threw her hands up in frustration.
"Do I need to teach you how to speak now? Okay, okay." She dragged him over and made him plant his feet in front of the camera. "Now all you have to say is hi to Sakura and some other stuff."
Syaoran glared at his cousin, but Meiling glared right back. Finally he gave up and looked away, right at the camera. "Um. yeah, hi Sakura. It's boring without you here in track, no one to tease, you know? Well. um, you can write to me. that is if you want.." Meiling was squealing in delight and Tomoyo was starry eyed in the background. Syaoran glared at both of them and walked off.
"Kawaii!" Tomoyo exclaimed loudly. "How was the footage, Eriol dear?" I could hear Eriol chuckle.
"Perfect." He replied.
"Alright! How much film is left? We can stop by yours and Tomoyo's apartment to show Sakura what it looks like before sending it off to her." Meiling suggested. The next thing I knew I was looking at an apartment room. It was a nice size for two with two bedrooms, a small comfortably living room and a nice sized kitchen with one bathroom.
"Sakura, when you come back, you are definitely living at my huge house. We don't want to be a light bulb, right Sakura?" Meiling joked but only to be hit with a pillow on the head by Eriol.
"Hey!" Meiling cried throwing it back at him. It soon turned into a pillow fight. "Pillow fight! Catch Tomoyo!" Meiling launched a pillow at the camera and for a brief moment the screen went black. Giggles and laughter could be heard.
"Ahhhh! We only have a few minutes left!" Tomoyo cried. "Hurry, get together and I'll place this on the table so we can give Sakura a last goodbye!" The three scampered around and managed to say a last few words before the film was gone. What caught my attention was what Meiling said.
"Sakura, send Syaoran's letters to me. I'll see that he gets them." Then the screen went off. I sat staring at the screen, pondering over what Meiling had said.
Should I write to him? After all, he did say that I could.. But what would I write to him about?
Syaoran.
How was it? I'm sorry this is so late in coming out but as you already know, my computer died before I had a chance to save it. So I typed it all over again, changing parts here and there. Anyhow, please review on how it was and if you read my author profile thing. you should know that my birthday is on Friday! Yay! Remember to say happy birthday to me! Arigato. ~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: Gomen about the late chapter. The computer died on me when I was writing this and I didn't save it. My latest chapter has been lost! *Sobs * Anyhow, here I am writing it again.
From the reviews that I have received for this chapter, I announce that Ryoko Kai is here to stay. I like the name and many of you have also told me that Ryoko is also a guy's name. Yay!
Gomen for the song fics to all those who dislike them. I will keep watch of the number of songs I use. Thanks.
Meanwhile, that is all I have to say other than the usual, please review line, which I'm SURE that you all know! Thanks for your support! Rainbow dreamer
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Suki: Thanks! Here's the next chapter up!
Kirei Ayumi: I'm glad that Ryoko is also a guy's name, although I never knew it meant "demon summoner!" I didn't plan to have a negative connotation to his name, but hmmmm.. Anyhow, thanks for telling me.
Cherry princess: wowies is right girl! Hehe
Azn monkey: All right, all right! I won't let it dangle there. LOL. Here's the next chapter you wanted me so much to continue.
Chibi tenshi: sorry the last chapter was sad! Gomen, but glad you liked it.
Ying Fa: Okay, girl. I have lots to tell you, and I'll probably send you an email soon. Sorry I've been busy these days. Hmm. but for now, the song, I forgot to say was "Eyes on Me" by Faye Wong. It's the theme song in Final Fantasy 8. Such a sweet song right? Ryoko is on the trip. I couldn't let Sakura have all the fun right? Hehe. The star part was also a flashback. Sakura remembers the lines Syaoran said and vice versa. I'll add Kali's part in this chapter or in soon to be chapters.
Pnaixrose8: I'm glad you like the songs in this song. I'll try to keep the amount balanced though. And about Ryoko, read the author's note above. Thanks for loving my story so much, girl!
Kawaii cherry wolf: arigato girl. You've been here since the earliest chapters. It's been long! Thanks!
Cherry Angel: thanks for giving me that website! It was sooo kind of you and now I'm going to have fun adding characters here and there. Just kidding. Hehe. And me evil? Never! Hehe.
Usagi fy: Whoa there girl! That was a long review! And because of that, here's a long reply right back at you. Hehe. I won't make the story end right after Sakura sings, or at least I don't have it planned that way so far. You never know what my mind can think of at the last moment! Hehe. I'm so honored that you've promoted my story from a nice story to the greatest. Thanks ever so.
Cherry Princess: I'm glad you liked the songs! But what do you mean that 'I made the song played'?? And which song are you talking about? Eyes on Me or Only Hope? Now you've got me wondering! Hehe. I'm happy that you liked the kawaiiness in this chapter.
Keetra: Gomen, about the songs, but I'm glad that you told me. That way I will make sure the amount of song fics I put in a story. I'm not saying that I'm taking them all out, but I'll watch the number. Thanks for telling me that. And don't worry! Sakura will be coming back to HK. She's not going to be there forever! You have my word on that.
Lilyflower: You're the drama queen of my reviews. Hehe. Ryoko Kai will not be ruining S+S. at least I haven't planned that yet. *Sigh * I'm so evil! Hehe.
Idiot2002: I know that Ryoko is from Tenchi Muyo, said so in my last chapter's author note and I'm keeping Kai as Ryoko Kai. I kind of like him. Hmm. You're going to have lots more to be concerned about than just whether Kai will fall for Sakura or not after this chapter!
Okay, reader. What are you doing? Why are you reading this line? The chapter is down there you know. Yes, down there. LoL. I should stop playing with your minds. Anyhow, THANKS FOR THE REVIEWS!
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN:
*** Hong Kong. Third POV ***
A girl sat at an outside table in front of a coffee shop elegantly, her back perfectly straight in a well raised manner. Her long golden hair was tied into a long braid tied with a blue bow in the end. She was in a blue sundress and on the table was a straw hat with a blue ribbon that matched perfectly with her clothing. She was smiling and talking happily to another girl sitting across her. Her friend had long red hair cascading down her back and alike the blond, she was also well mannered and well dressed.
"We haven't met in years!" The blonde exclaimed. "I'm so glad that I've gotten the chance to talk to you. You know what's going to happen right?"
"Yes. I hope things will not as bad as I think it will be." Her friend replied.
"I hope so you, since your sixth sense is always quite accurate." The girl reminded. Her friend smiled grimly and nodded in agreement.
"Do you think she can manage it? You've known her longer than I have. From what you have told me, those have happened in the pass. That does not measure how well she will fare in what will come." The blonde continued in a more serious tone.
"No, but she has the capability to. Her determinacy, courage, and love for others are something that has not failed in the passing years. They have increased actually. I have full confidence that she will do well, but it is the young man that worries me."
"He is nothing to be worried about. I've spent a lot of time with him lately, although he's deep in thought most of the time to talk to me actually. He's trying to remember her."
"It's the test."
"Yes, but I don't like him to be in so much pain." The blonde countered. The redhead shook her head wisely.
"The girl has been as much pain as he."
"True, I guess."
"Saph, it's the truth. They both have been through great pains. True lovers destined to be together but only to be broken apart. That is more than enough pain." The redhead said firmly, her red eyes grave. Blue eyes met hers and the blonde nodded.
"I know." She replied sheepishly. Then she smiled. "It's been a long time before anyone has called me by my nickname."
"Time passes quickly and there are still much to do. You're meeting him tonight, ne?"
"Hai. Anything you need to know?" Saph asked. Her friend smiled gently and shook her head.
"Iie. Be nice to him though. He's starting to remember her."
"Be nice? Aren't I always?" She kidded. The friends laughed joyfully. "Well, I'll see you around then. He's picking me up at five."
"Have fun and call me when you have the time."
"Sure. Later," the blonde smiled and got up from her seat and walked gracefully down the road. She carried a sense of pride and greatness around her. There was something that most people didn't see in the inside.
*** Tomoyo and Eriol ***
"Sweetness, letter for you!" Eriol called to his girlfriend as he looked through the mail. "It seems to be from Beijing." He flipped the envelope to her who was sitting and sewing another article of clothing for Sakura.
"Arigato," She blew him a kiss, which he received dramatically, making her giggle. Opening the light blue envelope with delicate hands, she took out the letter inside. The papers crinkled as she spread it out to read. She skimmed it quickly and smiled.
"Eriol, listen to this," Tomoyo said, holding up the letter.
"Dear Tomoyo and Eriol,
It's been a week and a half already and things are going okay here in Beijing. I know I should be sending an email, but I wanted to write this personally okay? Let's see. You will not believe how utterly amazing Kai is on the guitar and Jeff, the other band member I told you about, is a piano classic. If you and Eriol weren't together, I'm sure you'd be gushing how cute and wonderful Jeff is. No offense to you Eriol, whom I know is listening to this as Tomoyo reads it out loud."
Eriol chuckled amiably as Tomoyo giggled over the line. He walked over to her and sat down next to her, sliding an arm around her waist and pulling her close. "Now you aren't crazy about Jeff are you?" He asked in a quiet sexy manner. Tomoyo giggled girly.
"Quit it. I can't think when you're so close to me!" Eriol grinned and pulled her closer.
"That's the whole point sweetness," He purred. Tomoyo giggled.
"Quit it Eriol-kun. Let me finish the letter."
"Fair enough." He stopped adding his weight on her but his arm never left her waist.
"The performance is next month on November 15th, a Friday. Sensei keeps telling me that I'll do fine, but I'm just so nervous. He's beginning to convince me to go for a singer and record my own songs and all. I don't know if I want this. I truly don't know. It's awesome singing songs and such, but I don't think I can manage it, being so far away from home. I miss you guys too much."
"Oh Sakura," Tomoyo sighed.
"Do you think she'll accept being a professional singer?" Eriol asked quietly. Tomoyo shrugged and looked at the paper.
"I don't know, but Sakura will want all of our support before she agrees. You know Sakura, she cares about us."
"True. Read on,"
Tomoyo nodded and cleared her throat. "How is Syaoran doing? I don't dare write to him and I often ask Meiling how he is. I'm worried about him. Meiling's told me that he's much more quiet and has been hanging around Kali lately. I don't know what to think about that. Kali's not a bad girl, not really. She just likes Syaoran and I don't have anything against that. I think. Things are confusing without you guys here."
"She still loves him." Tomoyo whispered almost inaudibly. Eriol brushed a tear that was making its way down his love's cheek. Tomoyo broke down crying and Eriol wrapped his arm around her. She laid her head in his chest, wanting to be closer to him.
"Shh." Eriol comforted, patting her back lightly. Tomoyo sniffed and dried her tears on his shirt. "Better?"
Tomoyo nodded, wiping her tears with both hands now. Eriol smiled lightly at how cute she was. "I wish I was there was more things I could help Sakura in. She needs that feeling of being safe and loved."
"Dear, you've done more than what's expected and Sakura knows that. There isn't a better person in the world except for you." The young man spoke gently and his words made sense. "And Sakura does feel loved, by all of her friends and family."
"I know that, but I just can't bear to see her so sad. Her letters are full of questions that I don't know the answer to. It just makes my heart ache."
"Sweetness, look at me." When Tomoyo didn't face him, Eriol gently cupped her head in his hands. "Remember our fight when you thought I was going out with another girl in England?"
Tomoyo's eyes shifted away and a slight blush came over to her face. "That's not something I'd like to think about. I was being a baka."
"No you weren't sweetness." Eriol spoke firmly. Her amethyst eyes locked onto his azure ones once more. "Remember after we mended? Remember what you told me, when I said I wanted to make it up to you?"
Tomoyo's eyes filled with emotion. "'There is no remedy for love but to love more' by Henry David Thoreau." She quoted. Eriol nodded.
"So all we have to do is to love Sakura Chan more and let her heart open once more. She's afraid of being rejected and now that she's in Beijing, the matters are worse."
Tomoyo nodded and kissed her boyfriend on the cheek. Eriol smiled and kissed her back on the nose. "Now, let's think what we can do to cheer our friend up." Their eyes wandered to the camera on the table. A pair of identical grins shined.
"A tape." The two whispered and grinned again. Grabbing the tape the two dashed out their apartment and hurriedly went outside.
*** Sakura. Beijing. ***
"Fantastic job Kinomoto!" Mr. Osyka, Sakura's music tutor exclaimed. "Wonderful! Spectacular!" He was standing up and clapping after Sakura performed the song "Only Hope" by Mandy Moore with Ryoko and Jeff.
"Thanks, Mr. Osyka. Some of it was Ryoko's and Jeff's." After two weeks of being together, the two guys had insisted that Sakura call them by their first name. The three friends got along well and with Jeff's girlfriend and friend, Alisha and Sandry.
"That was like, awesome dude!" Jeff greeted to Sakura and Ryoko. Sakura smiled.
"You know Jeff, I can never understand how I guy like you plays the piano. I mean it, you skate and all that." Jeff grinned playfully, showing off his white teeth. Around five feet ten with dirty blonde hair with dark black eyes gave him a sense of someone that was anything but a classical piano guy.
"Yeah well, Sakura you know me. I'm the weird one around here, right Alisha my babe?" Alisha laughed loudly. She was waiting for them to finish practice so they all could go out for lunch. Around Sakura's height, she had black hair like midnight with ebony eyes and a slightly tanned skin with high cheekbones that gave her a stunning look.
"Sakura, believe me. When we first met, he almost ran me over with his skates. Now the most romantic scene, but it was darn funny the way he dodged me and crashed over the ledge and did this dramatic flip and fell back down with one of his skates falling on his head. It was such a Kodak moment I tell you." Alisha said with a dreamy smile. Then she ruined the effect by laughing again.
"Whatever girl! I fell because of you!" Jeff shot back. Alisha grinned.
"And that's why I fell in love with you." She said with a smile and kissed him on the cheek. Sakura couldn't help feeling sad that she had no one to flirt and kiss with.
"You guys done over there?" A voice asked lightly with a slight accent. It was Sandry with her blonde hair tied into a French braid. Slightly shorter than the rest, she was the quiet and intelligent one.
"Yeah, yeah. Always a perfectionist, Sandry is." Jeff joked. Sandry flashed her golden brown eyes at him that made Jeff grin sheepishly.
"Sakura, you up to shopping with me later?" She asked quietly when they walked off for lunch. Sakura looked at her questionably. Sandry grinned.
"Is it that weird that I'm off my books today?" She joked, annoyed. She had recently gotten contacts and only wore glasses while studying.
Sakura laughed, her emerald eyes twinkling. "No," She said quickly. "Just us?"
"Yeah, a girl's thing you know? Alisha will come if we ask, but it seems like she wants to spend some quality time with Jeff since she hasn't seen him much because of the music practices."
"Sure, why not? What time then?" Sakura asked. Sandry shrugged.
"After lunch or something then. We'll be back before dinner though, I know you have to make dinner for you dad." She replied knowingly. Sakura smiled. Sandry was a close friend to her in a short matter of time.
"Hey Sandry, is Mike coming today?" Alisha called to her friend. Sandry shrugged.
"I called him this morning and he's coming whenever." She replied. It was a typical answer from Mike. Mike was just like that; everything was cool with him.
Lunch was at McDonalds and Mike end up coming and had an agreement to go play at the arcade with Ryoko, Jeff, and Alisha. It seemed like Ryoko was fitting in and Sakura was happy that he had somewhere to go.
*** Sakura's POV ***
"Got everything?" Sandry asked me as I grabbed my bag and locked the door behind me. "Keys?" she asked. I grinned and showed her my keys, which I then put into my bag.
"So, where are we going?" I asked casually. Sandry smiled.
"I was planning on going to the mall and just chill out. There should be a sale today, does that sound fine with you?" She asked. I nodded. I guess I like Sandry the best out of the crowd I hanged around with. Her personality kind of reminded me of Rika and that was somewhat comforting. I wondered how they were doing in Japan.
Spending time with Sandry got many things off my mind that afternoon. It was nice and pleasant change to shop and laugh with a friend. It was something I guess I lacked during this time during in Beijing. Maybe it was because I was afraid of something. What I was afraid of, I did not know. All I knew was that I liked spending time with Sandry and everyone else. Becoming friends with Ryoko was nice as well. He was like an older brother and a younger brother at times. But the afternoon with Sandry especially got my mind off Syaoran for the briefest moment. I couldn't help but to recall his warm arms around me and his wondrous scent he always had. The hardest thing to shake off was what he wanted to say to me that night I said goodbye. I missed him and from the letters Meiling, Tomoyo, and Eriol have sent me, he seemed distant to his old friends.
I don't think I'll ever forget that moment or any of the moments we've spent together. Syaoran, what are you doing now?
"Are you okay Sakura? You seem. off center somehow." Sandry asked worriedly over her milkshake. I smiled quickly.
"No, I'm okay. I had a wonderful time today. Thanks for taking me here." I replied sincerely. Sandry smiled, showing those cute dimples of hers.
"Anytime, Sakura. We're friends, count on it." Those simple words seemed to put some pieces together. Yes, I still had friends. And maybe, maybe Syaoran and me can be friends when I get back to Hong Kong. Who knows?
Sandry insisted walking me back home saying that I would definitely get lost. That made me laugh, thinking about all those times Meiling, Tomoyo, and Eriol had worried about me getting lost all the time.
"Kero! I'm home." I called, flicking on the light. I placed the keys on the table and tossed my bag on the couch. "Kero?" I asked, walking upstairs where light was coming in my room.
"Kero?" I opened the door to see him playing on his game boy again. I sighed; I guess I worry too much sometimes.
"So, how was shopping with Sandry? That was the first time you've shopped with someone since you've came here to Beijing?" Kero asked casually, but his face never left his game.
"Great." I replied, smiling at how caring Kero could be sometimes.
"Tomoyo sent a package. Actually Eriol did through his magic. He said it was something important and Tomoyo insisted on sending it the fastest way possible. You were out shopping so I put it on the table for you." I smiled my thanks and walked over to the package. I sat down on my bed and Kero paused his game to watch me open it.
"It's a. tape!" I exclaimed surprised. "That's awfully nice of them to do so."
Kero nodded. "Let's go watch it. I'll get the popcorn." He offered. I giggled.
"Kero." I said with a sigh. He just gave me a puppy face look before flying downstairs. Laughing I followed. So here I was, sitting in the living room with Kero and popcorn and drinks.
*** In the tape***
"Tomoyo, what's up with this taping again? Sakura's not here and there's no way I'm going to be your temporary model." Meiling said annoyed, but a twinkle in her ruby eyes showed that she was kidding around. Sakura could hear Tomoyo laugh.
"It's for Sakura. I'm sending her a video tape." Tomoyo whispered. Meiling's eyes grew wide and she immediately turned to the camera and going up close.
"HI SAKURA!" She said loudly. "You know, I'd kiss the screen right now to show you how much I miss you but Tomoyo will kill me for ruining her thousand dollar tape."
"Correction. It's five thousand." Eriol cut in. Tomoyo giggled and zoomed out to show Meiling and Eriol.
"Yes, yes. My mistake. I got confused with how much Eriol's new glasses cost."
"The exact amount, my dear friend is," Eriol said wisely.
" Nine hundred and fifty two," the two said in unison. They glared at each other before laughing loudly.
I laughed along. They knew exactly how to cheer her up.
"Quit it you two! I didn't film just to see you two bicker over the costs." Tomoyo replied.
"This is for Sakura-Chan I assume." A familiar voice stated. Tomoyo turned to see Kaho standing there with a pleasant smile.
"Ohayo sensei!" The three chirped. Kaho smiled.
"Ohayo, Tomoyo, Eriol, and Meiling." She smiled at the camera. "You too Sakura Chan. I've heard you're in the singing contest. I look forward in hearing you sing." Kaho nodded. "You have such great friends here and I assure you that everything's going alright here." She bowed and walked off.
"My turn!" I heard Meiling exclaim. She took over the camera and urged Eriol and Tomoyo to stand together.
"Now, we show you the sweetest couple on earth, Eriol and Tomoyo. They are even living together in a small apartment for one. Isn't' that so sweet?" Meiling said. Tomoyo blushed.
"Meiling!" She complained.
"It's the truth Tomoyo. I only say the truth."
"You never say the truth Meiling," A masculine voice countered. I felt my heart thumping. It was his voice.
"Ah! Now we introduce Syaoran Li, my all time favorite cousin." Meiling zooms in on him. Syaoran was scowling at having the camera so close to him.
"Quit filming me, Meiling," he growled, covering the screen.
"Aieee! My video!" Tomoyo shrieked playfully. A hitting sound was heard and the hand was taken away. Eriol chuckled.
"Nice of you to join us, my cute little descendent." Syaoran shot daggers at him.
"I'm not cute, little and I'm not your descendent." He replied.
Eriol shook his finger. "Task tsk. How rude, you do know that this is a film for Sakura-Chan don't you?"
Syaoran stood there for a while, not saying anything. Meiling zoomed in on his face. God, now perfect his features were. He was looking at the screen with intense, serious brown eyes. It was like he was staring hard at me. Then he suddenly walked off.
"Syaoran! You didn't even tell her anything." Tomoyo called after him. Syaoran stopped walking for a brief moment.
"Tell her I said hi." He said quietly and jogged off.
Tomoyo and Eriol shared a look. Clearly the look said, "at least we tried." I bit my lip from crying.
"Eriol, your turn to film!" Meiling called happily. Eriol nodded and obediently took over the camera. Meiling smiled into the camera once again.
"You just ignore what my dear cuz just said over there. He's been a little quiet these days that's all Sakura. He just gives the usual glares and such. Oh, and he's suddenly martial art practice crazy again. Can you believe it? Waking up at four and there is he, is the front yard waving that silly sword of his. Wakes me up, you know?" Meiling explained with huge moments of the hands.
She leaned closer to the camera. "Here, I'll tell you a secret. You see those bags under my eyes? They're because of him."
The camera was shaking a bit. Meiling backed away from the camera, her hands on her hip. "Stop laughing Eriol, it's not that funny!"
That made the camera shake a little more before it steadied. Tomoyo was giggling lightly. "Let's go see your teachers! Your track coach especially misses seeing you run." The three walked the familiar path to the track where the track practice was. Eriol filmed up to the coach. He grinned and waved to the camera.
"Kinomoto, when you coming back? I need you for the track meet second semester. You know, the real game? So, how about it? You better be prating over there, you hear me? My buddy Li here is working his butt off, right Li?" He had his arm around Syaoran and Syaoran managed to nod.
"That's right! You and Sakura always ran together right?" Tomoyo exclaimed. The coach answered for Syaoran.
"You should see them run. It's scary how exactly the same they are when they run."
I felt my eyes water up a bit. Kero noticed and patted my shoulder comforting and handed me a tissue. I smiled my thanks.
Syaoran was looking uncomfortably at the camera once again. "You alright?" I heard Eriol ask as he was filming. Syaoran shrugged and looked off the distance. Tomoyo and Meiling shared a look.
"Come on Xiao Lang, at least say something to the camera," Meiling asked. Syaoran looked at his favorite cousin.
"I don't know what to say," He whispered. Meiling threw her hands up in frustration.
"Do I need to teach you how to speak now? Okay, okay." She dragged him over and made him plant his feet in front of the camera. "Now all you have to say is hi to Sakura and some other stuff."
Syaoran glared at his cousin, but Meiling glared right back. Finally he gave up and looked away, right at the camera. "Um. yeah, hi Sakura. It's boring without you here in track, no one to tease, you know? Well. um, you can write to me. that is if you want.." Meiling was squealing in delight and Tomoyo was starry eyed in the background. Syaoran glared at both of them and walked off.
"Kawaii!" Tomoyo exclaimed loudly. "How was the footage, Eriol dear?" I could hear Eriol chuckle.
"Perfect." He replied.
"Alright! How much film is left? We can stop by yours and Tomoyo's apartment to show Sakura what it looks like before sending it off to her." Meiling suggested. The next thing I knew I was looking at an apartment room. It was a nice size for two with two bedrooms, a small comfortably living room and a nice sized kitchen with one bathroom.
"Sakura, when you come back, you are definitely living at my huge house. We don't want to be a light bulb, right Sakura?" Meiling joked but only to be hit with a pillow on the head by Eriol.
"Hey!" Meiling cried throwing it back at him. It soon turned into a pillow fight. "Pillow fight! Catch Tomoyo!" Meiling launched a pillow at the camera and for a brief moment the screen went black. Giggles and laughter could be heard.
"Ahhhh! We only have a few minutes left!" Tomoyo cried. "Hurry, get together and I'll place this on the table so we can give Sakura a last goodbye!" The three scampered around and managed to say a last few words before the film was gone. What caught my attention was what Meiling said.
"Sakura, send Syaoran's letters to me. I'll see that he gets them." Then the screen went off. I sat staring at the screen, pondering over what Meiling had said.
Should I write to him? After all, he did say that I could.. But what would I write to him about?
Syaoran.
How was it? I'm sorry this is so late in coming out but as you already know, my computer died before I had a chance to save it. So I typed it all over again, changing parts here and there. Anyhow, please review on how it was and if you read my author profile thing. you should know that my birthday is on Friday! Yay! Remember to say happy birthday to me! Arigato. ~Rainbow dreamer