Do You Remember Me? I Remember You
By Rainbow Dreamer
*DEDICATED TO: All of YOU who have stood by my side along the way! THANK YOU! I don't think I would of ever finished this fic if it weren't for all of you. This last chapter is especially for KEETRA who helped me out SO much on the songs in this chapter, searching for many songs. THANKS GIRL! And for all I know, you guys all ROCK! THANKS!
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: Hey~ Long time no see huh? Those who read my other fic should understand why I'm late at updating, but those who didn't here's why: I had midterms on April 14th and 15th, SATs on May 3rd, and AP statistics on May 7th. Busy, busy, busy. SORRY ABOUT THE LATE UPDATE.
Sorry, sorry, sorry. This should be the LAST chapter. *Sobs heavily * this was my FIRST fic and its like my child... wahhhhhh. At least I'm glad that readers enjoyed this fic for the most part of it. Thank you all for supporting me along the way. I really appreciate all the comfort everyone's given me in my first fic ever at fanfiction. It's a really nice feeling to know that people actually enjoy reading something that I've written (which contains so much blabber). THANK YOU. I couldn't ask for a better audience than all of you.
Thank you all who gave me suggestions for songs. And thus, this chapter is going to have LOTS of SONGS inside. SORRY TO THOSE WHO DISLIKE SONG-Y CHAPTERS.
Oh, the last part of this story will be an epilogue, a short one, but nice. At least I think so! :p
Love ya!
Rainbow Dreamer
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Cherry Blossom: Will Sakura forgive him? Read on!
Sakura Blossom: Thank you. I hope you like this chapter as well.
Kawaii Cherry Wolf: Thank you. I can't thank you enough from being there with me from like.... From chapter 2. *Hugs you tightly* THANK YOU! *Wipes tears from her eyes* you don't know what it means for me that you've read my fic from the beginning. Once again, thank you.
Sweet Baby Gurl: Thank you. What touches me that most is that my writing can actually evoke some of the expected emotions out! :)
Smilez: Thanks. Oh, and here's a smiley face for you! :)
Montserrat T: Thank you for loving my fic.
Idiot 1988: Thank you! Thank you for being there from the beginning of time when I started this fic. You've been a great moral support and a wonderful friend. This, I thank you. And Kali and Ryoko together? Interesting thought.
AyUnLi: Thank you! I'm so glad that there are people out there who enjoy my imagination!
Kazeshi: Thank you for loving this. So, if you're reading this, I'm guessing you've got my update email?
Kawaii Fairy Emma: Thank you for putting me on your favorite list. You do not know how much that means to me. Thank you. And a sequel? Hm. I haven't thought about it actually. I'm going to focus more on my other fic after I finish this one.
Anime Freak 242: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I'm glad you've liked this chapter. And yes, Panther is dead...... or at least he should be. :p Hm, a card captor sakura crossover? With what? Hm. I know there's a lot of Harry potter and card captor sakura ones lately out there....
Keetra: THANK YOU girl. You must know how much I'm thanking you since I think that's all I do in my emails to you! :p And you've been with me way since time even began, from ground zero, from chapter one. Thank you. *Gives you a huge bear hug*
Orchid Angel: Thank you. I'm just glad that you're back at this story for the ending.
Sweet Card: Arigato.
ChErRy BlOsSoM: Cool down girl! There's still one more chapter and will Sakura and Syaoran get back together? Read on!
Animefanrk2k: S+S? That's for me to know and you to guess! LOL. Just read! Thank you for reviewing.
Ash Night: Hey you too! No, really, I really thank you for reviewing. I've always enjoyed reading them. Enjoy this last chapter. Oh, that reminds me, when are you going to update your "Trial of Fate" story? Thanks for everything.
Megami No Hikari: Thank you. I'm glad that my story makes you emotional! So my story does have some good points!
KitieKat: Sorry I've made you cry so many times reading this. I hope, however, this last chapter will make it up for it. Enjoy and thank you.
Ani-chan: Thank you. For reading this as well as my other fic.
Stary Angel: Thank you.
Everyone else who I did not name but reviewed for any chapter of this fic, I thank you here right now from the bottom of my heart. You guys are the greatest and I hope this chapter will be something you'll all enjoy immensely.
Once again, thank you.
Rainbow Dreamer.
CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX:
*** Sakura's POV ***
I laughed lightly after reading the letter, my back leaning against the white wall with the letter on my lap. Who would of thought things would happen like this? Ryoko, you're one heck of a problem. And I could almost hear that crazy laughter of his, agreeing with me.
I stood up from my seat from the floor, folding the letter carefully back into the envelope and sliding in the pocket of my jeans. I lovingly placed the guitar back into its case and slung it over my shoulder. I grabbed my sunglasses from where I had placed it on the floor and sauntered out his apartment. It was time to get the show on.
Jeff met me at the studio, his face surprised yet with a toothy grin. "Hey girl! I thought you'd never be coming back!" He hugged me tightly. I laughed.
"Yeah, well, aren't you happy that I am?" I replied with a smile. Jeff chuckled and nodded.
"So, where's Ryoko?"
"He can't come back, but we can still perform with you on the piano and me signing, right?" I asked, placing the Honey Sweet on the floor.
"Definitely. Though while you're gone, Sandry offered to play the violin for us."
"Hoe? Really?"
"Really." Jeff grinned. "Let's get rocking!"
"Never thought you'd be into classical music."
"You already said that before," He replied smoothly, raking a hand through his dirty blond hair "Are you ready?" he called as he took his seat behind the piano and mine at the microphone.
"Definitely. Oh, and Jeff?" He nodded. "Where's our sensei, Mr. Osyka? And Sandry?"
"Oh. Right." The two of us looked at each other and burst out laughing. "You know, Saku, it's great to have you back here. The gang's been missing you." Jeff said as they waited for their teacher to come.
"I've missed them too." I replied, sighing.
"How were things in Hong Kong? Ryoko told us you had some serious stuff to do."
"Hai, things are okay now." I replied briefly, not wanting my emotion to betray me. Jeff looked at me from the corner of his eyes, but made no comment. Then he started to play the piano to the lyrics of "Only Hope." Unintentionally, I started to sings softly, tears welling up in my eyes, only adding to the emotional tremor.
We were both so into the music, we hardly noticed that we had an audience until they broke out into spontaneous applause. I knew without looking that one was Mr. Osyka, with that distinct clapping of his that sounded strangely like a duck quacking. Don't ask me why, it was Ryoko who had thought of it and now every time I hear that distinct clapping, I automatically think of a duck, those large white ones with yellow webbed feet. And the person with him wasn't exactly clapping.... It was more like squeals of delight that sounded strangely familiar to the word.....
"KAWAII!" Tomoyo supplied happily.
Jeff wagered his eyebrows at her and then finished the last few notes with grand, exaggerated movements of his arms. Then he stood up professionally and bowed deep, those coal black eyes glittering with amusement. "I'm glad you enjoyed it madam." He thanked with a fake crisp British accent.
Tomoyo laughed. "So you're the infamous Mr. Jeff, Sakura told me all about!"
Jeff grinned. "I'm afraid so." He replied. "Pleasure to meet you...."
"Tomoyo Daidouji."
"Ah, yes. Pleasure madam."
Tomoyo laughed again. "The pleasure is all mine." Sakura giggled, cutting the moment between the two.
"You guys should go for acting." She suggested. "Ne, Osyka sensei?"
"Hai. Kinomoto's quite correct." Their teacher answered with a smile. "I'm glad you've decided to come back. Sandry can't make it today, but I'm really glad that she's here now that Kai can't be here anymore." He continued in a more serious tone. Then he grinned. "I was beginning to think I'd have to sing for you!"
His pupils and Tomoyo groaned. "What? Wasn't that funny?" Osyka joked. That just made the three groan louder and Osyka bellow with laughter.
***** Third POV *****
After bidding Jeff goodbye, the two best friends walked down the bustling streets of Beijing. They window shopped a little, the two not talking much but enjoying each other's company a great deal. It seemed like after the whole ordeal, life seemed out of pace and there was much to think about.
"Sakura-Chan, how are you holding up?" Tomoyo asked her best friend quietly as they sat at a bench in a nearby park with cups of frappincino in their hands.
"I don't know." She replied, leaning back onto the bench as her eyes stared at the blue sky up above that seemed so far away. "I keep telling me things are back to the way they are, but I guess I'm just fooling myself huh?" Her voice cracked with emotion and her hand shook lightly.
Tomoyo smiled knowingly and took the cup of coffee away from her friend's hands before grasping Sakura's hands tightly in hers. "Have you talked to Li-kun?"
The auburn haired girl shook her head, still not looking at Tomoyo. "I don't know." She repeated her earlier words. "I want to but it hurts so much when I know he doesn't know who I am! I can see it in his eyes, a slight confusion every time he talks to me. Oh, Tomoyo, I know he cares, but it's just not the same! When Ryoko and Kali saved Syaoran, she was first thing he responded to. Tomoyo, those brown eyes softened once he saw her, the way he once looked," Sakura paused, facing her friend now with tears brimming over, "the way he once looked at me."
Immediately Sakura was enveloped by a comforting hug by Tomoyo. "Is she still with Li-kun?"
"I don't know. Ryoko left a letter for me, telling me that he wouldn't be seeing me anymore that he was off somewhere for the Gods. He said briefly that Kali was with him, but I'm not sure."
"So basically Li-kun's single again. You can fight him into your arms." Tomoyo stated.
But Sakura shook her head. "I don't think I could go through everything again. It hurts so much when he doesn't know me! I know he tries to remember, but,"
"You want things to be the way they were before." Her friend finished. "You want him to love you once more, and have those eyes shine only for you." Sakura just nodded miserably.
"Can I say something?"
Sakura nodded.
"Frankly, you're not going to have a chance to have him love you once again if you're all the way in Beijing while he's all the way in Hong Kong. The two of you might as well be on different planets!" Tomoyo said bluntly.
For a while Sakura didn't respond and Tomoyo was afraid that she had spoken too directly. Meiling apparently had a greater influence over her than she had thought.
"Tomoyo, you're always right." She sighed. "But I think we both need some time to think things over. The whole battle was meant to be only us." Sakura smiled sadly. "I guess we both need to heal before we do talk."
"If you wish." Her best friend replied. "You're singing contest is coming along perfectly!" Tomoyo praised, changing the subject. Sakura nodded, feeling relieved inside that it had. She was so lucky to have a friend who knew her so well.
"Arigato. You'll help me dress up that day?"
"Of course!" The two girls laughed. Even though some things had changed and things will never be the same again, there will always be things that will never change. And one of them would be true friendship.
***** Hong Kong. Eriol's POV *****
I was in on the balcony connected to my room at my continuous stay at the Li mansion. I had decided to stay there for a couple of more days until things had settled down before moving back to the little comfortable apartment Tomoyo and I had rented.
A week had passed since Sakura's decision to fly back to Beijing and approximately two weeks had passed after the whole ordeal with Panther. Actually, I had been quite surprised how the battle turned up to be. Sakura, however, seemed to know everything in the fight, which surprised me. Still to this day, I did not fully understand why Panther had attacked and some questions, I had learned, were better left silent. But, that was not surprised me the most. It was the whole Angel thing of Kali Jiang and Ryoko Kai. I didn't think Jiang would treat Syaoran like that, yet she did fall in love with him and Syaoran actually had turned his attention towards her. Why, however, I will never know. But that is to be left to Sakura and Syaoran. They would have to settle the matters themselves.
And Kai. Syaoran must be in so much pain these days. Kai was his friends, his best friend actually while he was away in Hong Kong that year while everyone else was still in friendly Tomoeda. To have two people whom he trusted betray him was going to be a scar that would never leave him.
But I think what would hurt most of all to Syaoran would be Sakura. The two barely said two words to each other. After the battle, Sakura closed herself in her room while Syaoran immediately threw himself into a martial arts practice frenzy, which is what he does when he's confused. Yet, I still don't understand why Syaoran responded to Jiang with such emotions when the battle ended. He didn't even bother to make eye contact with Sakura, but then perhaps it was because she left before he could; she was hurt, I knew, by how Syaoran looked caringly at Jiang.
I think what's been happening has caused me to be some deep philosopher or something. I laughed dryly; now wouldn't Tomoyo be proud of me? She always complained how I thought too much and expressed too little.
"Meiling! That's it! OUT!" Xiao Lang's voice was sharp and cruel, his voice echoing throughout the whole house. I winced; he was getting way out of control. I sighed, retreating out of my room to calm my dear descendant down.
When I reached the huge spacious room Syaoran trained in when he wanted to be alone or when the weather was bad outside, the two 'adorable' cousins were about to bite each other's head off. I sighed again; I had almost forgotten how stubborn Meiling could be as well. Why am I always in the middle of things?
"You guys, calm down." I got in between the two nervously. The glares each other were shooting each other were getting deadlier by the second.
"SHUT UP ERIOL!" They both yelled, their eyes flashing dangerously at me. Oh Kami, why isn't Tomoyo here? She was wonderful at settling the two cousin's disputes before she left to Beijing with Sakura. I guess I would have to settle it myself for a change, and show my true colors.
"Xiao Lang, I know you have a damn lot to think about, but don't blow up in front of Meiling! She's just trying to help, God damnit!" I yelled. The two cousins stopped glaring and stared at me in amazement. Yes, I hardly curse and I just did, and quite vulgarly too.
"Meiling, stop smirking just because I yelled at Xiao Lang and not at you." I continued to rant, which was totally unlike my calm personality. Meiling glared at Syaoran who was now smirking triumphantly. "Both of you just quit it! You're both acting totally foolishly! Will you please act your age?" They just nodded.
"Good!" I praised sarcastically. "Now Meiling, if you will kindly follow me; I have more to stay to you." Meiling nodded glumly. "Xiao Lang, now you can stop smirking. You have a lot to think about, so think about it!" I snapped.
I walked out the room with Meiling behind. Once I closed the door behind me, I leaned against it and sighed, massaging the bridge of my nose. "Gomen, Eriol-kun. So, what did you want to tell me?" Meiling asked.
At this, I grinned evilly. "You're becoming more like the old you every second." My friend commented slyly. "What are you plotting now?"
I grinned at her; she knew me to well. I led her down the hallway. "Well you see, Tomoyo has been keeping contact with me and we both came up with something........." Before I was even finished explaining, Meiling had an evil smile of her face, identical to mine. And I knew Tomoyo had one just like ours, with her "OHOHOHO" laughter.
The plan had begun to take action.
Now all we had to do was to get Syaoran somehow agree to join us. Which was probably the hardest part, knowing him. What he thought was wrong, he would never do.
And too stubborn for his own good.
**** Beijing****
"Tomoyo, are you hiding something from me?" Sakura asked when she caught her friend off guard and had quickly hung up the phone.
"Of course not, Sakura." Tomoyo lied swiftly, crossing her finger behind her back.
"Just how dumb do you think I am?" Her friend demanded with an amused smile. "I may be dense here and there, but I'm not THAT dense."
Tomoyo smiled feebly. "Of course Sakura. I was just making a phone call to Eriol and I didn't think you would want to hear Eriol singing a love song on the phone." She explained, lying even more.
"Hoe? I never knew Eriol could sing." Sakura replied. "I would have liked to talk to him Tomoyo. You didn't have to hang up so quickly!" Then she laughed. "For a moment there I thought you were plotting something again."
Her friend sweat dropped. "Why would I be plotting anything? All my partners are all the way in Hong Kong!"
"Thank Kami that they are," Sakura replied. Tomoyo just smiled. "Well, I came to find you to tell you that I have another singing rehearsal. Do you want to come?"
"Iie. It's okay. Besides, I promised okaasan I would call her."
"Oh, okay. Tell her I said hi okay?"
"Sure thing, Sakura. I'll see you later?"
"Why don't we go out for ice cream when I come back?"
"Would love to. Now get out before again!" Tomoyo shouted back. Sakura laughed and went outside, running to the meeting place.
It felt so good to run, the sound of the sneakers pounding on the concrete sidewalk. The wind was blowing slightly, causing the girl's honey hair to flow back naturally. She glanced at her watch, speeding up when she noticed that she was getting late.
"Gomen, I'm late!" Sakura called as she yanked the door open. To her surprise, no one was there, yet the lights were on. And on the table lay the guitar Ryoko gave her.
"Hoe?" She asked, walking up to the guitar. "Did I forget this last time?" Sakura shrugged and slung the guitar on her shoulder.
"Jeff? Sandry?" She called. "Mr. Osyka?"
Looking around, she saw a note written on the blackboard in great block letters that belonged to Jeff. Sakura groaned. How could she have forgotten that there was no practice today? They had all agreed yesterday that today would be off to prepare for tomorrow's competition. But then, she was glad she came. Ryoko would never forgive her if she lost his Honey Sweet.
Meanwhile, right after Sakura walked out the house, Tomoyo immediately got the phone back in her hand, speed dialing. "Meiling?"
"What the hell? You hang up on me just like that? Who do you think you are?" Meiling's loud voice replied.
"Gomen. Sakura suddenly walked in on me and I couldn't let her know what I was doing!"
"Oh, okay. Gomen. So are all the plans set?"
"Hai. Sakura forgot that there isn't any practice today and will be home earlier, but other than that, everything here is perfect! You have to see the outfit I made for Sakura! It's absolutely perfect."
Meiling laughed. "I bet."
"How about you?"
"Fine. Eriol and I have been having a hard time convincing him, but it might just work. I guess we're just going to give it all we have."
"Best of luck then."
"I'll need it."
"Then should I wish you some more?"
"Funny, Tomoyo. Real funny." Meiling drawled. "I swear you're becoming like Eriol more and more each day."
"Why thank you!" Tomoyo laughed. "Remember what I told you!"
"I know, I know."
"Just reminding you."
"Yeah, whatever Tomoyo. Anyhow, I have to go. Syaoran's bugging me about something. Ja, Tomoyo."
"Ja ne Meiling." Tomoyo hung up the phone and smiled to herself. Things were going quite successfully and as planned. Now, all she had to do was finish up the last few touches. Grinning evilly, she picked up the phone once again.
While Tomoyo was having fun, planning out her ultimate greatest master plan Sakura decided to wander off to the park and fiddle around with the guitar. She end up with her feet dangling as she sat on a branch of a strong aspen oak tree. The guitar in her hands and its case carefully placed, she crossed her legs and strummed the strings. It was surprising how everything was still in perfect tune.
Humming away, her nimble fingers played out a familiar tune of the song Syaoran sang to her once when she was sick and he came up to her house and played this song. She remembered, how sweet it was and how he made hot soup for her later. Sakura smiled, it seemed like so long ago, yet it wasn't. And as she played on, she found out that she really did love him.
Truly.
Perhaps Tomoyo was right. How could see just stare, watching some guy taking the love of her life away from her arms? Sakura laughed bitterly, her finger playing the final notes on the guitar that was now hers. She sighed and slid the guitar pick into her back pocket and leaned against the trunk of the tree.
Tomorrow was the competition, and she needed to concentrate on that. After that, she promised, she would start to fight Syaoran back into her arms, even if it meant breaking her heart once more.
Oh, the crazy things one does when one's in love. The drastic measures one is willing to take for that certain someone. A glance, a smile, a simple touch was all she was asking for. The silence in between was just too much, too much.
***** Morning of the competition backstage*****
She could hear the blaring noises of the crowd screaming as the competition started. Tucking her auburn locks behind her ear, she smiled ruefully. She had wanted to see the opening ceremony but she had gotten out her apartment a little late and the traffic was completely horrible. Sighing, she knew that Jeff and Mr. Osyka were going to yell at her. She quickened her pace, hoping she wasn't late.
"Sakura! Where were you? You missed the whole beginning and they've started to compete. Thank Kami you're here! We're going to up after four more songs." Jeff ranted, waving his hands around for emphasis. Sandry and Sakura just shared a look of amusement. "It's NOT funny!" He yelled. He was dressed in just some black dress pants, formal shirt with those stiff collars, black shiny shoes, with his hair gelled. Sakura smiled sheepishly, mumbling her apologies over and over again.
"It's okay. And while I'm still ranting, you look absolutely dazzling."
Sandry laughed. "You do. Much more fabulous than me."
"Iie! You look wonderful Sandry!" Indeed, the blond hair girl looked pretty with her rose colored shirt with small roses in sliver and a long white skirt. The slivery brown eye shadow brought out the color of those hazel eyes. A thick sliver belt of sliver was fit nicely around her waist with cut out flower shapes. And lastly, sliver high heels finished her outfit.
"Thanks to Tomoyo." She replied. "Besides, you look wonderful too."
"We kind of look like sisters except with different colors huh?" Sakura said, giggling playfully. She was dressed in a green spaghetti strap that had gold lining of a big Cherry blossom in the front with a white silky skirt. An elegant belt made out of gold string was hung around her thin waist, small cherry blossoms of gold hanging down from the right side. Her glossy hair was let down, pooling around her shoulders and earrings of gold with green peeked out from her hair. Elegant black platforms finished her complete outfit with a slight bit of makeup.
"You guys look dead drop gorgeous!" Tomoyo agreed, coming up from behind the two. "I just checked everyone else's outfit and none could compete!"
"Tomoyo! How come you're backstage?" Sakura squealed. "I thought only contestants could enter here."
"Oh, well, let's just say I have my ways." Her friend replied slyly. "Besides, I couldn't bear not giving you guys one last confidence pumping."
Jeff laughed, while Sakura just smiled knowingly. "So who has your brand new videotaping thing?"
Tomoyo laughed at her friend's dislike. "Oh, I hired some guy to do it for me. You know, the professionals that have the whole set on the tripod."
"NANI?"
"Oh, it's right outside. Besides, I thought you'd like to see the other contestants as well, knowing that you'd be too nervous to do anything but watch." She replied casually.
"Tomoyo, you aren't going to stay backstage for the whole time are you?" Sakura whined. Tomoyo's smile just grew wider. "Oh Kami, someone save me!" She joked. Her friends laughed and Sakura smiled.
"So, when are you guys up?" Tomoyo asked.
"We're tenth." Jeff replied. "There are about thirty people competing."
"That many?" Tomoyo questioned.
"Yeah. I hope we win." He said.
"Well, best of luck you three." The raven-haired girl said. "I have to make a phone call, okay Sakura? Don't worry, you'll do fine." She hugged her best friend tightly.
"Arigato Tomoyo." She nodded and wished the three luck once more before disappearing amidst the crowd of contestants to reach the phone. Tomoyo stopped in front of the pay phone, fished out some money and dialed. She didn't have to wait more than two rings when the phone picked up.
"Everything ready Sweetness?" Eriol's cool, reassuring voice floated from the other end.
Tomoyo looked over where Sakura, Jeff, and Sandry were talking, the two girls laughing apparently at something Jeff had said. "Hai. Everything's according to plan."
"Good. Meiling's getting a little impatient here." He told her, chuckling. "Is it a good time now?"
"Yes; Sakura should be getting onstage pretty fast. But remember what I said and don't make any mistakes!"
"Of course not, Sweetness." Her boyfriend replied, chuckling again. "Well, we're all ready here and changed. It's all on you now."
"Right. And I'll..." Tomoyo started.
"Tomoyo?"
"Wait. Sakura's waving at me and I think they're going up. Apparently number nine gave up or something."
"Better for us."
"Yes, but Sakura's going to win no matter what. I'll call you later."
"Ja ne." Tomoyo quickly hung up the phone and rushed up to Sakura who was worrying herself out. Her best friend laughed and pulled the worried girl into a tight hug.
"Go and kick some butt!" Tomoyo whispered as Sakura's team names were called. Sakura smiled weakly and Jeff gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze and the next thing they knew, they were on stage with the brightly lights almost blinding them. Jeff slide professionally behind the piano as Sandry took her position next to him with her violin in position. He wasn't worried; he had done millions of recitals, as so did Sandry, but for Sakura it was a different case. Yes, she had acted many times, but singing was just new for her.
He waited patiently as Sakura took her position behind the mic. Then she turned to give Jeff a smile, signaling that he was ready.
Soft piano music floated out softly. Sakura smiled lightly at the audience, her voice soft as she started to sing. "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."
Now, she had gotten the hang of singing and really she wasn't so nervous anymore. She really got into the music and took off the microphone from its stand as she continued, "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."
-- Syaoran, this song is for you. --
Her voice was soft and smooth, her emotions and love filling the hearts of those that heard. Jeff and Sandry shared a smile. Clearly, Sakura was enjoying this, as she got more confident as she added hand gestures inside, increasing the emotional state of the song.
Tomoyo smiled from behind the curtains. Sakura truly was expressing the lyrics of the songs. And through that she knew exactly what Sakura wanted and she hoped that her plans were going accordingly.
She quickly hung up the phone when she heard Sakura's sweet, angelic voice closing the song.
"I give you my destiny. I'm giving you all of me. I want your symphony, singing in all that I am. At the top of my lungs, I'm giving it back." Sakura's voice rose, bringing her to the final verse of her song.
"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." She smiled brightly to the audience as Jeff and Sandry finished off the song while she hummed along.
The audience broke into frenzied applause, a lot of them yelling, "Sakura!" while other cheered for Ryoko and Sandry at turns. Yet most of them were screaming her name. She couldn't stop the tears from leaking out.
"Thank you all." She whispered. She curtsied slightly and the audience broke into spontaneous applause once more. Then she walked back to where Jeff and Sandry were, smiling at her.
"You did great Sakura." Sandry said, putting one arm around her as the trio walked to backstage. Tomoyo practically tackled Sakura once she got behind the curtains.
"KAWAII!" She yelled, hugging Sakura as she jumped.
"Well done, the three of you. Kinomoto that must be the best you ever had sung." Mr. Osyka complimented. Sakura smiled brightly.
"Arigato. All of you." Her tears spilled over and she was immediately pulled into a group hug.
Later Tomoyo found Sakura quietly leaving the auditorium, still dressed in her singing outfit. "Sakura? You're leaving?" Sakura gave a small smile and shrugged her shoulders at her friend as she walked in the quiet hallway with distant music blaring sounds.
"Hai."
"Nani? Don't you want to hear everybody else's performances? We're near the end." Tomoyo begged.
Sakura shrugged. "I don't know. I just feel kind of disappointed." She smiled ruefully. "It was all part of wishful thinking anyhow."
"Of what?" Her friend asked quietly, her clear amethyst eyes clearly portrayed her worry.
She smiled, wistfully. "I don't know. I was kind of hoping, thinking that Syaoran would be there and all."
"You sang the song for him." It was more of a statement than a question. Sakura nodded, turning away from her friend, not able to face her in the eye.
"Ja ne, Tomoyo. I'll see you back at the apartment."
"Wait, Sakura." Tomoyo pulled at her arm. "Onegai, Sakura. Just listen."
Sakura frowned, her foot tapping the floor impatiently. "I don't hear anything, Tomoyo. Only screaming."
"Wait." Her friend commanded. Then blaring rock music came to their ears.
"Tomoyo let go. It's just some stupid rock song."
Tomoyo let her friend go, but she didn't move. She couldn't.
These lyrics........
Were made for her, and only her.
*** Sakura's POV***
"Another day is going by. I'm thinking about you all the time. But you're out there And I'm here waiting."
I slowed turned around. I could not feel, touch, nor see anything; I could only hear the lyrics, and the guy's voice that captured me so.
"And I wrote this letter in my head, cause so many thing were left unsaid. But now you're gone, and I can't think straight."
-- Syaoran.--
"This could be the one last chance to make you understand, I'd do anything just to hold you in my arms. To try to make you laugh. Somehow I can't put you in the past."
I sighed, remembering all those times he made me laugh, that amused twinkle always in those dreamy autumn eyes.
"I'd do anything just to fall asleep with you. Will you remember me? Cause I know I won't forget you." Syaoran's rich voice sang in my ears.
-- Baka. How could I not remember you? -- I thought as I walked back into the auditorium, only thinking of Syaoran. I watched, seeing Syaoran as the lead singer and surprisingly Eriol on the electric guitar and Meiling rocking away on the drums.
"Together we broke all the rules, dreaming of dropping out of school and leave this place to never come back."
I smiled at his lyrics. I remembered the time when Syaoran told me he was leaving I told him that I wanted to go too. He had told me that I had school, but I had replied that I could drop out. I laughed, reminiscing.
"So now maybe after all these years, if you miss me have no fear. I'll be here, I'll be waiting."
So he was waiting all this time.
"This could be the one last chance to make you understand, and I just can't let you leave me once again."
His voice rose wonderfully as he started to sing the chorus once again. "I'd do anything just to hold you in my arms. To try to make you laugh. Somehow I can't put you in the past. I'd do anything just to fall asleep with you. Will you remember me? Cause I know I won't forget you."
"I close my eyes and all I see is you. I close my eyes, I try to sleep I can't forget you And I'd do anything for you."
So he wasn't the only one who was thinking these past few days.
Then his voice continued to repeat the chorus once last time before singing his final words, like promises dropping one by one.
"I'd do anything to fall asleep with you."
"I'd do anything, there's nothing I won't do."
"I'd do anything to fall asleep with you."
"I'd do anything cause I know I won't forget you."
No, he didn't forget me. And he never will. Tears welled up in my eyes and it was then I realized Tomoyo was standing next to me smiling. Then she extended her hand and I took it, allowing her to lead the way.
*** Syaoran's POV ***
As the audience flared up into what seemed like a mist of screaming, yelling, cheering, clapping, and all sorts of appreciation, I scanned the audience for who I was looking for. I smiled sadly to myself.
Just whom was I kidding? There was no reason for her to be here; she could of left a long time ago.
I jumped a little when I felt a hand on my shoulder. Turning around, I was thrown into the depths of Meiling's red eyes that contained some sense of sadness and other emotions that I could not identity.
"You must be zoned out if I could make you jump like that," She said. I smiled ruefully. "We have a next song to do, cuz." I nodded. "Suck it up." She told me with a sly grin on her face.
I laughed, yet it was a sad one. I remembered how the Elders used to tell me to keep my emotions inside. Then I grinned, a true smile. No more was I going to do that.
Sakura, wherever you are, this last song is for you.
"Come on everyone! Cheer one last time before Syaoran and his gang is going to sing another song!" The host declared. "Crank it up!!" The guy yelled. This immediately brought the whole crowd cheering.
I waited patiently until the cheering died down.
"This one is for you, girl." I said quietly. I had to hide a smile behind my hand. I could have sworn that every girl out there had just swooned. That just made me smirk.
All those girls were such fakers. I only had one in mind, and that's how it's going to stay.
(The song is going to be a medley of songs, some of the are my own lyrics)
"Do you remember, oh that special time? When I first glared at you?" I sang in the melody of the Romeo and Juliet song I once sang to her, a smile playing on my lips. I remembered that exact time I went to school and saw her for the first time. I had glared at her. "The only thing you did, was Smile. You're an innocent angel, but I'm quite the opposite. Oh Heaven help us!" Syaoran grinned.
"You smile. I glare. It's just as simple as that. We're sworn enemies." Music that we had recorded was flowing out from the speakers. It was a medley of songs, and I could make up lyrics if I wanted to along the way.
"Do you remember, oh that special time? When you first smiled at me?" A sweet, innocent voice replied. I titled my head. This didn't sound like Tomoyo.
"Your sweet eyes, twinkling with happiness. You smile. I smile. It's just as simple as that. We're sworn soul mates."
I turned to see Sakura smiling at me, like the angel she was. I smiled back, feeling it wobble on my face. She continued to sing. "Do you remember me? I remember you."
I smiled. "I'll always remember you." I replied. Then the music blared up and I sang as spring met autumn as I directed my words to her. "You and Me always and forever. You and me always and forever."
"Bop bop bop bop bop." Sakura's voice cheerfully.
They locked eyes. "It was always you and me always." She sang out, to the audience, rather than me, her eyes dancing. The music faded, and became a light peaceful music.
"Don't leave me this way, I can't survive, without your sweet love. Oh, baby, don't leave me this way." Sakura laughed, moving away from him teasingly. She could see those chocolate orbs, begging her.
"Boy, don't you know?" She asked, a smile playing on her lips. "That I've never left you?"
I smiled, extending my hands to her. She smiled back and took it, her warm hand tightly grasping mine, as if she never wanted to leave me. "When they ask me how long I'm gonna love you, if the road to my heart will stay true, I'll say forever. I'll say forever for you."
"They say love is to receive a glimpse of Heaven." Sakura sang softly. "But I think that I'm living in Heaven, if you tell me that you love me." Her emerald eyes were shinning into me, asking me.
"Girl, don't you know?" I asked. I put a finger under her chin and looked into her eyes, getting lost in all the sweetness and love shinning back at me. "I love you." I whispered.
The crowd was going wild, screaming with joy at the romantic scene above, with Tomoyo sighing dreamily as she whispered kawaii and as she prayed the camera man she paid so much for had better get a good footage of this.
"You love me?" She asked, her voice uncertain as soft music played in the back.
"I always have." I repeated.
Her face finally smiled. "I love you too."
The music was rising, and we smiled as we sang together, our voice blending with each other's perfectly. "You and me always and forever. You and me always."
"Bop bop bop bop bop." Sakura sang, her eyes twinkling happily.
"It's always you and me always." The music died out, and only the two of us were left alone on stage quietly, staring into each other's eyes.
"And who I am now, is who is who I want to be. And now that we're together, I'm stronger than ever. I'm happy and free. Oh, it's a beautiful thing. Don't think I can keep it all in." I paused a looked at her; her eyes swimming with heart felt emotion. "And if you asked me why I've changed, all I got to do is say your sweet name."
"So, kiss me." She sang. My eyes widened, and she grinned. "It's been so long, since I've felt your arms around me. Oh, it's a beautiful thing to have your soft lips against mine, giving me all the love you have for me."
"KISS HER!" The audience screamed, after sensing that I was not moving the slightest. I looked over at the audience and smiled.
"It would be me pleasure," I whispered huskily in her ear. "Backstage." I continued. The whole audience groaned, not being able to see the romantic scene. Sakura just laughed, as she wrapped her arms around my neck. I smiled back down at her as I swept her off her feet and carried her backstage with much of the approval of everyone watching.
Once we got backstage, I put her down. But once I looked at her, I found myself getting lost in those sweet eyes and bent down and captured her lips with mine.
I had forgotten what it was like to kiss her. Those sweet lips, tasting like life itself. A warm, tingly feeling rushing up and down my spine, as it took me to cloud nine. It was such a simple kiss, but I could taste her love for me. It was nothing like I've felt before.
And I knew then, truly, that I loved her. And that was all that mattered.
Then I heard someone gasp and I broke away from Sakura reluctantly. She opened her sweet innocent eyes, fluttering at me. Sakura then tilted her head cutely, the way she did when she was confused.
Then I noticed that a pink glow was around my neck. Sakura reached over and when she touched it the light, it stopped glowing and visualized in front of me.
She giggled happily, her fingers running over something. "Sakura?" I asked.
She looked up at me and smiled. "It's your necklace; it's back."
I just stared at her. "Syaoran?"
I didn't reply as floods of memories came rushing back at me. Tons of familiar pictures, each one filling my soul with moments of Sakura, and of us. I could feel myself more real than I ever had felt.
All those card capturing times.
All those blushes I had when I saw her.
The time I hugged her for the first time when she cried, broken hearted that Yukito didn't like her.
The time I called her by her first name when I thought I had lost in her in the elevator.
The time I first told her I liked her in fourth grade.
The bear I gave her at the airport that was currently happily tucked away at my bed.
The first time we kissed, back in seventh grade on that autumn day when I told her I was leaving. The time we became a couple. More than that. Soul mates.
Those many kisses we shared afterwards. Those many sweet smiles she'd give to me. Those gifts she'd carefully wrap on my birthday and Christmas were lovingly placed in a special drawer at home.
And I knew, with her by my side that there was nothing missing in my life.
I blinked my eyes and there was my beauty, looking up at me with confused emeralds. I smiled and cupped her face, and leaned over. "I'll never forget you again." I whispered furiously, blinking the hot tears away from my eyes.
Sakura's eyes opened wide as she squealed and hugged me tightly. I hugged her back. "So you remember everything?"
"Hai."
Sakura paused and I pushed her away so I could look at her. She was so quiet, but then a smile broke out from her face.
"When are we going to go to Hong Kong together?" She asked cutely.
I laughed. "Soon." But instead of smiling, she was frowning. "What now?" I teased. She looked up at me.
"We're still onstage." She replied innocently, making me freeze. Then she laughed.
That's when I found out that she wasn't all the angelic as she seemed. I growled and she took off giggling as I ran after her, laughing. But no matter what, she will always be that angel in my heart. That soul mate. That girl I fell head over heals for back when I was in fourth grade. That angel that made my life worth living.
When people ask me, is my life more important or yours. I'll reply mine. Not because I'm selfish but because you're my life.
Sakura, I love you. And I always will.
Sakura Kinomoto.
*** Third POV ***
Eriol, Tomoyo, and Meiling stood by the side, watching their two friends chasing each other around the mist of people backstage, laughing. "They're just perfect for each to each other." Meiling said, smiling. "Syaoran's hasn't been smiling nor laughing since Syaoran left Sakura in Japan."
"I've noticed." Eriol replied, a sly grin on his face. "I'm hope Syaoran kept it up to his promise that I get to be the best man." He replied, smirking.
"Oh!" Tomoyo cried, getting excited. "I get to be the child's godmother!"
Meiling laughed. "Getting ahead of ourselves, aren't we?" Tomoyo shot her a dirty look, but soon all three friends fell into a pool of laughter and smiles. "Since we're all laughing, can I name the babies?"
This time all her friends heard her, including Sakura and Syaoran who had heard Meiling's request, all shouted, "Heck no!"
Meiling laughed. "That's what I thought, but I just had to ask to make sure." She mused with a grin. Her friends smiled back and soon a glow of happiness, love, and security filled each of their souls.
*** Epilogue***
They were just glad that everything was over. And that everything was back to the way things were. Well, almost. Through the occurrences that happened, Sakura and Syaoran were even closer now, their love only grew deeper as they days passed. They eventually did go to back to Hong Kong, the two of them. Sakura was happily welcomed into the family, bringing great amounts of delight from the Li sisters and from Yelan Li who was happy that her son had found the one who made her son smile brighter each day.
Fujitaka Kinomoto, home back in Tomoeda, Japan, opened his mailbox one day to find a beautifully designed card addressed to him. As he opened it, he smiled with happiness.
For inside, it wrote. "We cordially invite you to the marriage of Kinomoto Sakura and Li Syaoran," and many more blessings.
And of course, he went. Touya and Yukito showed up too and to everyone's surprise, Touya was actually happy about the fact that it was Syaoran who was marrying his kaijuu. Eriol, as Syaoran promised, was the best man. Tomoyo, as Sakura happily agreed to later, was the godmother of her children, even though Sakura kept saying how she didn't plan to have children anytime soon. Tomoyo just gave her that "you better have children soon or I'll know why" look. Meiling was the other godmother, to much of her delight and surprise. But the greatest surprise of all was that she found her very own love of her life, a lucky man who loved to laugh as much as Meiling did. Whose eyes lit up with mischief whenever he teased someone, and that special someone, was usually Meiling.
Eriol and Tomoyo went on to have a romantic love story, right out of a fairy tale. They married, on the anniversary date of the singing competition, honoring the moment when Sakura and Syaoran reunited once again.
And it turns out that Sakura did have children later, much to everyone delight, but most of all Syaoran,........ and of course Tomoyo who was delighted to be a godmother. They had two "kawaii" children. He, a cute little boy, had his father's messy hair and Sakura's sweet emerald pools. And she, a sweet little girl, had her mother's fair hair and her father's rich eyes, except a bit lighter.
Their names?
There's no need to ask. You probably know already.
They named the boy after the guy with the crazy red hair, his love for his Honey Sweet guitar, his laughter, his jokes, his sense of humor. He was named, Ryoko Li.
They named the girl after the angel with her sweet beautiful looks, her bravery in fighting for love, her smiles, her voice, and her good heart. She was named, Kali Li.
And all was happy. And the third angel, whom never showed herself, made sure that it was a happy ending, like a fairy tale. And now that her mission was complete, she could go back teaching that she enjoyed immensely. She smiled, and watched the lovely scene once more as Syaoran hugged his wife as they watched their children play with Kero; Eriol laughing while Tomoyo had her camera; Meiling talking to her lover with shinning happy eyes. Everything was well and perfect. And with that, the third angel left, her long red hair blowing with the wind as her red eyes smiled with delight.
Sakura looked up to the hill where she had sensed someone watching. Then she smiled, running her fingers over her necklace. "Arigato, sensei." She whispered, her wind carrying her voice along.
*****
Many things have changed and some for the better and some for the bad. No one would of expected things to have ended like this, but that was how life worked. Yet even though some things have changed and things will never be the same again, there will always be things that will never change. And one of them would be true friendship. And the other would be true love.
May all of you, find your true love and friendship, and hold it one for all it's worth. One cannot love less; one can only love more.
By Rainbow Dreamer
*DEDICATED TO: All of YOU who have stood by my side along the way! THANK YOU! I don't think I would of ever finished this fic if it weren't for all of you. This last chapter is especially for KEETRA who helped me out SO much on the songs in this chapter, searching for many songs. THANKS GIRL! And for all I know, you guys all ROCK! THANKS!
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: Hey~ Long time no see huh? Those who read my other fic should understand why I'm late at updating, but those who didn't here's why: I had midterms on April 14th and 15th, SATs on May 3rd, and AP statistics on May 7th. Busy, busy, busy. SORRY ABOUT THE LATE UPDATE.
Sorry, sorry, sorry. This should be the LAST chapter. *Sobs heavily * this was my FIRST fic and its like my child... wahhhhhh. At least I'm glad that readers enjoyed this fic for the most part of it. Thank you all for supporting me along the way. I really appreciate all the comfort everyone's given me in my first fic ever at fanfiction. It's a really nice feeling to know that people actually enjoy reading something that I've written (which contains so much blabber). THANK YOU. I couldn't ask for a better audience than all of you.
Thank you all who gave me suggestions for songs. And thus, this chapter is going to have LOTS of SONGS inside. SORRY TO THOSE WHO DISLIKE SONG-Y CHAPTERS.
Oh, the last part of this story will be an epilogue, a short one, but nice. At least I think so! :p
Love ya!
Rainbow Dreamer
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Cherry Blossom: Will Sakura forgive him? Read on!
Sakura Blossom: Thank you. I hope you like this chapter as well.
Kawaii Cherry Wolf: Thank you. I can't thank you enough from being there with me from like.... From chapter 2. *Hugs you tightly* THANK YOU! *Wipes tears from her eyes* you don't know what it means for me that you've read my fic from the beginning. Once again, thank you.
Sweet Baby Gurl: Thank you. What touches me that most is that my writing can actually evoke some of the expected emotions out! :)
Smilez: Thanks. Oh, and here's a smiley face for you! :)
Montserrat T: Thank you for loving my fic.
Idiot 1988: Thank you! Thank you for being there from the beginning of time when I started this fic. You've been a great moral support and a wonderful friend. This, I thank you. And Kali and Ryoko together? Interesting thought.
AyUnLi: Thank you! I'm so glad that there are people out there who enjoy my imagination!
Kazeshi: Thank you for loving this. So, if you're reading this, I'm guessing you've got my update email?
Kawaii Fairy Emma: Thank you for putting me on your favorite list. You do not know how much that means to me. Thank you. And a sequel? Hm. I haven't thought about it actually. I'm going to focus more on my other fic after I finish this one.
Anime Freak 242: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I'm glad you've liked this chapter. And yes, Panther is dead...... or at least he should be. :p Hm, a card captor sakura crossover? With what? Hm. I know there's a lot of Harry potter and card captor sakura ones lately out there....
Keetra: THANK YOU girl. You must know how much I'm thanking you since I think that's all I do in my emails to you! :p And you've been with me way since time even began, from ground zero, from chapter one. Thank you. *Gives you a huge bear hug*
Orchid Angel: Thank you. I'm just glad that you're back at this story for the ending.
Sweet Card: Arigato.
ChErRy BlOsSoM: Cool down girl! There's still one more chapter and will Sakura and Syaoran get back together? Read on!
Animefanrk2k: S+S? That's for me to know and you to guess! LOL. Just read! Thank you for reviewing.
Ash Night: Hey you too! No, really, I really thank you for reviewing. I've always enjoyed reading them. Enjoy this last chapter. Oh, that reminds me, when are you going to update your "Trial of Fate" story? Thanks for everything.
Megami No Hikari: Thank you. I'm glad that my story makes you emotional! So my story does have some good points!
KitieKat: Sorry I've made you cry so many times reading this. I hope, however, this last chapter will make it up for it. Enjoy and thank you.
Ani-chan: Thank you. For reading this as well as my other fic.
Stary Angel: Thank you.
Everyone else who I did not name but reviewed for any chapter of this fic, I thank you here right now from the bottom of my heart. You guys are the greatest and I hope this chapter will be something you'll all enjoy immensely.
Once again, thank you.
Rainbow Dreamer.
CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX:
*** Sakura's POV ***
I laughed lightly after reading the letter, my back leaning against the white wall with the letter on my lap. Who would of thought things would happen like this? Ryoko, you're one heck of a problem. And I could almost hear that crazy laughter of his, agreeing with me.
I stood up from my seat from the floor, folding the letter carefully back into the envelope and sliding in the pocket of my jeans. I lovingly placed the guitar back into its case and slung it over my shoulder. I grabbed my sunglasses from where I had placed it on the floor and sauntered out his apartment. It was time to get the show on.
Jeff met me at the studio, his face surprised yet with a toothy grin. "Hey girl! I thought you'd never be coming back!" He hugged me tightly. I laughed.
"Yeah, well, aren't you happy that I am?" I replied with a smile. Jeff chuckled and nodded.
"So, where's Ryoko?"
"He can't come back, but we can still perform with you on the piano and me signing, right?" I asked, placing the Honey Sweet on the floor.
"Definitely. Though while you're gone, Sandry offered to play the violin for us."
"Hoe? Really?"
"Really." Jeff grinned. "Let's get rocking!"
"Never thought you'd be into classical music."
"You already said that before," He replied smoothly, raking a hand through his dirty blond hair "Are you ready?" he called as he took his seat behind the piano and mine at the microphone.
"Definitely. Oh, and Jeff?" He nodded. "Where's our sensei, Mr. Osyka? And Sandry?"
"Oh. Right." The two of us looked at each other and burst out laughing. "You know, Saku, it's great to have you back here. The gang's been missing you." Jeff said as they waited for their teacher to come.
"I've missed them too." I replied, sighing.
"How were things in Hong Kong? Ryoko told us you had some serious stuff to do."
"Hai, things are okay now." I replied briefly, not wanting my emotion to betray me. Jeff looked at me from the corner of his eyes, but made no comment. Then he started to play the piano to the lyrics of "Only Hope." Unintentionally, I started to sings softly, tears welling up in my eyes, only adding to the emotional tremor.
We were both so into the music, we hardly noticed that we had an audience until they broke out into spontaneous applause. I knew without looking that one was Mr. Osyka, with that distinct clapping of his that sounded strangely like a duck quacking. Don't ask me why, it was Ryoko who had thought of it and now every time I hear that distinct clapping, I automatically think of a duck, those large white ones with yellow webbed feet. And the person with him wasn't exactly clapping.... It was more like squeals of delight that sounded strangely familiar to the word.....
"KAWAII!" Tomoyo supplied happily.
Jeff wagered his eyebrows at her and then finished the last few notes with grand, exaggerated movements of his arms. Then he stood up professionally and bowed deep, those coal black eyes glittering with amusement. "I'm glad you enjoyed it madam." He thanked with a fake crisp British accent.
Tomoyo laughed. "So you're the infamous Mr. Jeff, Sakura told me all about!"
Jeff grinned. "I'm afraid so." He replied. "Pleasure to meet you...."
"Tomoyo Daidouji."
"Ah, yes. Pleasure madam."
Tomoyo laughed again. "The pleasure is all mine." Sakura giggled, cutting the moment between the two.
"You guys should go for acting." She suggested. "Ne, Osyka sensei?"
"Hai. Kinomoto's quite correct." Their teacher answered with a smile. "I'm glad you've decided to come back. Sandry can't make it today, but I'm really glad that she's here now that Kai can't be here anymore." He continued in a more serious tone. Then he grinned. "I was beginning to think I'd have to sing for you!"
His pupils and Tomoyo groaned. "What? Wasn't that funny?" Osyka joked. That just made the three groan louder and Osyka bellow with laughter.
***** Third POV *****
After bidding Jeff goodbye, the two best friends walked down the bustling streets of Beijing. They window shopped a little, the two not talking much but enjoying each other's company a great deal. It seemed like after the whole ordeal, life seemed out of pace and there was much to think about.
"Sakura-Chan, how are you holding up?" Tomoyo asked her best friend quietly as they sat at a bench in a nearby park with cups of frappincino in their hands.
"I don't know." She replied, leaning back onto the bench as her eyes stared at the blue sky up above that seemed so far away. "I keep telling me things are back to the way they are, but I guess I'm just fooling myself huh?" Her voice cracked with emotion and her hand shook lightly.
Tomoyo smiled knowingly and took the cup of coffee away from her friend's hands before grasping Sakura's hands tightly in hers. "Have you talked to Li-kun?"
The auburn haired girl shook her head, still not looking at Tomoyo. "I don't know." She repeated her earlier words. "I want to but it hurts so much when I know he doesn't know who I am! I can see it in his eyes, a slight confusion every time he talks to me. Oh, Tomoyo, I know he cares, but it's just not the same! When Ryoko and Kali saved Syaoran, she was first thing he responded to. Tomoyo, those brown eyes softened once he saw her, the way he once looked," Sakura paused, facing her friend now with tears brimming over, "the way he once looked at me."
Immediately Sakura was enveloped by a comforting hug by Tomoyo. "Is she still with Li-kun?"
"I don't know. Ryoko left a letter for me, telling me that he wouldn't be seeing me anymore that he was off somewhere for the Gods. He said briefly that Kali was with him, but I'm not sure."
"So basically Li-kun's single again. You can fight him into your arms." Tomoyo stated.
But Sakura shook her head. "I don't think I could go through everything again. It hurts so much when he doesn't know me! I know he tries to remember, but,"
"You want things to be the way they were before." Her friend finished. "You want him to love you once more, and have those eyes shine only for you." Sakura just nodded miserably.
"Can I say something?"
Sakura nodded.
"Frankly, you're not going to have a chance to have him love you once again if you're all the way in Beijing while he's all the way in Hong Kong. The two of you might as well be on different planets!" Tomoyo said bluntly.
For a while Sakura didn't respond and Tomoyo was afraid that she had spoken too directly. Meiling apparently had a greater influence over her than she had thought.
"Tomoyo, you're always right." She sighed. "But I think we both need some time to think things over. The whole battle was meant to be only us." Sakura smiled sadly. "I guess we both need to heal before we do talk."
"If you wish." Her best friend replied. "You're singing contest is coming along perfectly!" Tomoyo praised, changing the subject. Sakura nodded, feeling relieved inside that it had. She was so lucky to have a friend who knew her so well.
"Arigato. You'll help me dress up that day?"
"Of course!" The two girls laughed. Even though some things had changed and things will never be the same again, there will always be things that will never change. And one of them would be true friendship.
***** Hong Kong. Eriol's POV *****
I was in on the balcony connected to my room at my continuous stay at the Li mansion. I had decided to stay there for a couple of more days until things had settled down before moving back to the little comfortable apartment Tomoyo and I had rented.
A week had passed since Sakura's decision to fly back to Beijing and approximately two weeks had passed after the whole ordeal with Panther. Actually, I had been quite surprised how the battle turned up to be. Sakura, however, seemed to know everything in the fight, which surprised me. Still to this day, I did not fully understand why Panther had attacked and some questions, I had learned, were better left silent. But, that was not surprised me the most. It was the whole Angel thing of Kali Jiang and Ryoko Kai. I didn't think Jiang would treat Syaoran like that, yet she did fall in love with him and Syaoran actually had turned his attention towards her. Why, however, I will never know. But that is to be left to Sakura and Syaoran. They would have to settle the matters themselves.
And Kai. Syaoran must be in so much pain these days. Kai was his friends, his best friend actually while he was away in Hong Kong that year while everyone else was still in friendly Tomoeda. To have two people whom he trusted betray him was going to be a scar that would never leave him.
But I think what would hurt most of all to Syaoran would be Sakura. The two barely said two words to each other. After the battle, Sakura closed herself in her room while Syaoran immediately threw himself into a martial arts practice frenzy, which is what he does when he's confused. Yet, I still don't understand why Syaoran responded to Jiang with such emotions when the battle ended. He didn't even bother to make eye contact with Sakura, but then perhaps it was because she left before he could; she was hurt, I knew, by how Syaoran looked caringly at Jiang.
I think what's been happening has caused me to be some deep philosopher or something. I laughed dryly; now wouldn't Tomoyo be proud of me? She always complained how I thought too much and expressed too little.
"Meiling! That's it! OUT!" Xiao Lang's voice was sharp and cruel, his voice echoing throughout the whole house. I winced; he was getting way out of control. I sighed, retreating out of my room to calm my dear descendant down.
When I reached the huge spacious room Syaoran trained in when he wanted to be alone or when the weather was bad outside, the two 'adorable' cousins were about to bite each other's head off. I sighed again; I had almost forgotten how stubborn Meiling could be as well. Why am I always in the middle of things?
"You guys, calm down." I got in between the two nervously. The glares each other were shooting each other were getting deadlier by the second.
"SHUT UP ERIOL!" They both yelled, their eyes flashing dangerously at me. Oh Kami, why isn't Tomoyo here? She was wonderful at settling the two cousin's disputes before she left to Beijing with Sakura. I guess I would have to settle it myself for a change, and show my true colors.
"Xiao Lang, I know you have a damn lot to think about, but don't blow up in front of Meiling! She's just trying to help, God damnit!" I yelled. The two cousins stopped glaring and stared at me in amazement. Yes, I hardly curse and I just did, and quite vulgarly too.
"Meiling, stop smirking just because I yelled at Xiao Lang and not at you." I continued to rant, which was totally unlike my calm personality. Meiling glared at Syaoran who was now smirking triumphantly. "Both of you just quit it! You're both acting totally foolishly! Will you please act your age?" They just nodded.
"Good!" I praised sarcastically. "Now Meiling, if you will kindly follow me; I have more to stay to you." Meiling nodded glumly. "Xiao Lang, now you can stop smirking. You have a lot to think about, so think about it!" I snapped.
I walked out the room with Meiling behind. Once I closed the door behind me, I leaned against it and sighed, massaging the bridge of my nose. "Gomen, Eriol-kun. So, what did you want to tell me?" Meiling asked.
At this, I grinned evilly. "You're becoming more like the old you every second." My friend commented slyly. "What are you plotting now?"
I grinned at her; she knew me to well. I led her down the hallway. "Well you see, Tomoyo has been keeping contact with me and we both came up with something........." Before I was even finished explaining, Meiling had an evil smile of her face, identical to mine. And I knew Tomoyo had one just like ours, with her "OHOHOHO" laughter.
The plan had begun to take action.
Now all we had to do was to get Syaoran somehow agree to join us. Which was probably the hardest part, knowing him. What he thought was wrong, he would never do.
And too stubborn for his own good.
**** Beijing****
"Tomoyo, are you hiding something from me?" Sakura asked when she caught her friend off guard and had quickly hung up the phone.
"Of course not, Sakura." Tomoyo lied swiftly, crossing her finger behind her back.
"Just how dumb do you think I am?" Her friend demanded with an amused smile. "I may be dense here and there, but I'm not THAT dense."
Tomoyo smiled feebly. "Of course Sakura. I was just making a phone call to Eriol and I didn't think you would want to hear Eriol singing a love song on the phone." She explained, lying even more.
"Hoe? I never knew Eriol could sing." Sakura replied. "I would have liked to talk to him Tomoyo. You didn't have to hang up so quickly!" Then she laughed. "For a moment there I thought you were plotting something again."
Her friend sweat dropped. "Why would I be plotting anything? All my partners are all the way in Hong Kong!"
"Thank Kami that they are," Sakura replied. Tomoyo just smiled. "Well, I came to find you to tell you that I have another singing rehearsal. Do you want to come?"
"Iie. It's okay. Besides, I promised okaasan I would call her."
"Oh, okay. Tell her I said hi okay?"
"Sure thing, Sakura. I'll see you later?"
"Why don't we go out for ice cream when I come back?"
"Would love to. Now get out before again!" Tomoyo shouted back. Sakura laughed and went outside, running to the meeting place.
It felt so good to run, the sound of the sneakers pounding on the concrete sidewalk. The wind was blowing slightly, causing the girl's honey hair to flow back naturally. She glanced at her watch, speeding up when she noticed that she was getting late.
"Gomen, I'm late!" Sakura called as she yanked the door open. To her surprise, no one was there, yet the lights were on. And on the table lay the guitar Ryoko gave her.
"Hoe?" She asked, walking up to the guitar. "Did I forget this last time?" Sakura shrugged and slung the guitar on her shoulder.
"Jeff? Sandry?" She called. "Mr. Osyka?"
Looking around, she saw a note written on the blackboard in great block letters that belonged to Jeff. Sakura groaned. How could she have forgotten that there was no practice today? They had all agreed yesterday that today would be off to prepare for tomorrow's competition. But then, she was glad she came. Ryoko would never forgive her if she lost his Honey Sweet.
Meanwhile, right after Sakura walked out the house, Tomoyo immediately got the phone back in her hand, speed dialing. "Meiling?"
"What the hell? You hang up on me just like that? Who do you think you are?" Meiling's loud voice replied.
"Gomen. Sakura suddenly walked in on me and I couldn't let her know what I was doing!"
"Oh, okay. Gomen. So are all the plans set?"
"Hai. Sakura forgot that there isn't any practice today and will be home earlier, but other than that, everything here is perfect! You have to see the outfit I made for Sakura! It's absolutely perfect."
Meiling laughed. "I bet."
"How about you?"
"Fine. Eriol and I have been having a hard time convincing him, but it might just work. I guess we're just going to give it all we have."
"Best of luck then."
"I'll need it."
"Then should I wish you some more?"
"Funny, Tomoyo. Real funny." Meiling drawled. "I swear you're becoming like Eriol more and more each day."
"Why thank you!" Tomoyo laughed. "Remember what I told you!"
"I know, I know."
"Just reminding you."
"Yeah, whatever Tomoyo. Anyhow, I have to go. Syaoran's bugging me about something. Ja, Tomoyo."
"Ja ne Meiling." Tomoyo hung up the phone and smiled to herself. Things were going quite successfully and as planned. Now, all she had to do was finish up the last few touches. Grinning evilly, she picked up the phone once again.
While Tomoyo was having fun, planning out her ultimate greatest master plan Sakura decided to wander off to the park and fiddle around with the guitar. She end up with her feet dangling as she sat on a branch of a strong aspen oak tree. The guitar in her hands and its case carefully placed, she crossed her legs and strummed the strings. It was surprising how everything was still in perfect tune.
Humming away, her nimble fingers played out a familiar tune of the song Syaoran sang to her once when she was sick and he came up to her house and played this song. She remembered, how sweet it was and how he made hot soup for her later. Sakura smiled, it seemed like so long ago, yet it wasn't. And as she played on, she found out that she really did love him.
Truly.
Perhaps Tomoyo was right. How could see just stare, watching some guy taking the love of her life away from her arms? Sakura laughed bitterly, her finger playing the final notes on the guitar that was now hers. She sighed and slid the guitar pick into her back pocket and leaned against the trunk of the tree.
Tomorrow was the competition, and she needed to concentrate on that. After that, she promised, she would start to fight Syaoran back into her arms, even if it meant breaking her heart once more.
Oh, the crazy things one does when one's in love. The drastic measures one is willing to take for that certain someone. A glance, a smile, a simple touch was all she was asking for. The silence in between was just too much, too much.
***** Morning of the competition backstage*****
She could hear the blaring noises of the crowd screaming as the competition started. Tucking her auburn locks behind her ear, she smiled ruefully. She had wanted to see the opening ceremony but she had gotten out her apartment a little late and the traffic was completely horrible. Sighing, she knew that Jeff and Mr. Osyka were going to yell at her. She quickened her pace, hoping she wasn't late.
"Sakura! Where were you? You missed the whole beginning and they've started to compete. Thank Kami you're here! We're going to up after four more songs." Jeff ranted, waving his hands around for emphasis. Sandry and Sakura just shared a look of amusement. "It's NOT funny!" He yelled. He was dressed in just some black dress pants, formal shirt with those stiff collars, black shiny shoes, with his hair gelled. Sakura smiled sheepishly, mumbling her apologies over and over again.
"It's okay. And while I'm still ranting, you look absolutely dazzling."
Sandry laughed. "You do. Much more fabulous than me."
"Iie! You look wonderful Sandry!" Indeed, the blond hair girl looked pretty with her rose colored shirt with small roses in sliver and a long white skirt. The slivery brown eye shadow brought out the color of those hazel eyes. A thick sliver belt of sliver was fit nicely around her waist with cut out flower shapes. And lastly, sliver high heels finished her outfit.
"Thanks to Tomoyo." She replied. "Besides, you look wonderful too."
"We kind of look like sisters except with different colors huh?" Sakura said, giggling playfully. She was dressed in a green spaghetti strap that had gold lining of a big Cherry blossom in the front with a white silky skirt. An elegant belt made out of gold string was hung around her thin waist, small cherry blossoms of gold hanging down from the right side. Her glossy hair was let down, pooling around her shoulders and earrings of gold with green peeked out from her hair. Elegant black platforms finished her complete outfit with a slight bit of makeup.
"You guys look dead drop gorgeous!" Tomoyo agreed, coming up from behind the two. "I just checked everyone else's outfit and none could compete!"
"Tomoyo! How come you're backstage?" Sakura squealed. "I thought only contestants could enter here."
"Oh, well, let's just say I have my ways." Her friend replied slyly. "Besides, I couldn't bear not giving you guys one last confidence pumping."
Jeff laughed, while Sakura just smiled knowingly. "So who has your brand new videotaping thing?"
Tomoyo laughed at her friend's dislike. "Oh, I hired some guy to do it for me. You know, the professionals that have the whole set on the tripod."
"NANI?"
"Oh, it's right outside. Besides, I thought you'd like to see the other contestants as well, knowing that you'd be too nervous to do anything but watch." She replied casually.
"Tomoyo, you aren't going to stay backstage for the whole time are you?" Sakura whined. Tomoyo's smile just grew wider. "Oh Kami, someone save me!" She joked. Her friends laughed and Sakura smiled.
"So, when are you guys up?" Tomoyo asked.
"We're tenth." Jeff replied. "There are about thirty people competing."
"That many?" Tomoyo questioned.
"Yeah. I hope we win." He said.
"Well, best of luck you three." The raven-haired girl said. "I have to make a phone call, okay Sakura? Don't worry, you'll do fine." She hugged her best friend tightly.
"Arigato Tomoyo." She nodded and wished the three luck once more before disappearing amidst the crowd of contestants to reach the phone. Tomoyo stopped in front of the pay phone, fished out some money and dialed. She didn't have to wait more than two rings when the phone picked up.
"Everything ready Sweetness?" Eriol's cool, reassuring voice floated from the other end.
Tomoyo looked over where Sakura, Jeff, and Sandry were talking, the two girls laughing apparently at something Jeff had said. "Hai. Everything's according to plan."
"Good. Meiling's getting a little impatient here." He told her, chuckling. "Is it a good time now?"
"Yes; Sakura should be getting onstage pretty fast. But remember what I said and don't make any mistakes!"
"Of course not, Sweetness." Her boyfriend replied, chuckling again. "Well, we're all ready here and changed. It's all on you now."
"Right. And I'll..." Tomoyo started.
"Tomoyo?"
"Wait. Sakura's waving at me and I think they're going up. Apparently number nine gave up or something."
"Better for us."
"Yes, but Sakura's going to win no matter what. I'll call you later."
"Ja ne." Tomoyo quickly hung up the phone and rushed up to Sakura who was worrying herself out. Her best friend laughed and pulled the worried girl into a tight hug.
"Go and kick some butt!" Tomoyo whispered as Sakura's team names were called. Sakura smiled weakly and Jeff gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze and the next thing they knew, they were on stage with the brightly lights almost blinding them. Jeff slide professionally behind the piano as Sandry took her position next to him with her violin in position. He wasn't worried; he had done millions of recitals, as so did Sandry, but for Sakura it was a different case. Yes, she had acted many times, but singing was just new for her.
He waited patiently as Sakura took her position behind the mic. Then she turned to give Jeff a smile, signaling that he was ready.
Soft piano music floated out softly. Sakura smiled lightly at the audience, her voice soft as she started to sing. "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."
Now, she had gotten the hang of singing and really she wasn't so nervous anymore. She really got into the music and took off the microphone from its stand as she continued, "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."
-- Syaoran, this song is for you. --
Her voice was soft and smooth, her emotions and love filling the hearts of those that heard. Jeff and Sandry shared a smile. Clearly, Sakura was enjoying this, as she got more confident as she added hand gestures inside, increasing the emotional state of the song.
Tomoyo smiled from behind the curtains. Sakura truly was expressing the lyrics of the songs. And through that she knew exactly what Sakura wanted and she hoped that her plans were going accordingly.
She quickly hung up the phone when she heard Sakura's sweet, angelic voice closing the song.
"I give you my destiny. I'm giving you all of me. I want your symphony, singing in all that I am. At the top of my lungs, I'm giving it back." Sakura's voice rose, bringing her to the final verse of her song.
"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." She smiled brightly to the audience as Jeff and Sandry finished off the song while she hummed along.
The audience broke into frenzied applause, a lot of them yelling, "Sakura!" while other cheered for Ryoko and Sandry at turns. Yet most of them were screaming her name. She couldn't stop the tears from leaking out.
"Thank you all." She whispered. She curtsied slightly and the audience broke into spontaneous applause once more. Then she walked back to where Jeff and Sandry were, smiling at her.
"You did great Sakura." Sandry said, putting one arm around her as the trio walked to backstage. Tomoyo practically tackled Sakura once she got behind the curtains.
"KAWAII!" She yelled, hugging Sakura as she jumped.
"Well done, the three of you. Kinomoto that must be the best you ever had sung." Mr. Osyka complimented. Sakura smiled brightly.
"Arigato. All of you." Her tears spilled over and she was immediately pulled into a group hug.
Later Tomoyo found Sakura quietly leaving the auditorium, still dressed in her singing outfit. "Sakura? You're leaving?" Sakura gave a small smile and shrugged her shoulders at her friend as she walked in the quiet hallway with distant music blaring sounds.
"Hai."
"Nani? Don't you want to hear everybody else's performances? We're near the end." Tomoyo begged.
Sakura shrugged. "I don't know. I just feel kind of disappointed." She smiled ruefully. "It was all part of wishful thinking anyhow."
"Of what?" Her friend asked quietly, her clear amethyst eyes clearly portrayed her worry.
She smiled, wistfully. "I don't know. I was kind of hoping, thinking that Syaoran would be there and all."
"You sang the song for him." It was more of a statement than a question. Sakura nodded, turning away from her friend, not able to face her in the eye.
"Ja ne, Tomoyo. I'll see you back at the apartment."
"Wait, Sakura." Tomoyo pulled at her arm. "Onegai, Sakura. Just listen."
Sakura frowned, her foot tapping the floor impatiently. "I don't hear anything, Tomoyo. Only screaming."
"Wait." Her friend commanded. Then blaring rock music came to their ears.
"Tomoyo let go. It's just some stupid rock song."
Tomoyo let her friend go, but she didn't move. She couldn't.
These lyrics........
Were made for her, and only her.
*** Sakura's POV***
"Another day is going by. I'm thinking about you all the time. But you're out there And I'm here waiting."
I slowed turned around. I could not feel, touch, nor see anything; I could only hear the lyrics, and the guy's voice that captured me so.
"And I wrote this letter in my head, cause so many thing were left unsaid. But now you're gone, and I can't think straight."
-- Syaoran.--
"This could be the one last chance to make you understand, I'd do anything just to hold you in my arms. To try to make you laugh. Somehow I can't put you in the past."
I sighed, remembering all those times he made me laugh, that amused twinkle always in those dreamy autumn eyes.
"I'd do anything just to fall asleep with you. Will you remember me? Cause I know I won't forget you." Syaoran's rich voice sang in my ears.
-- Baka. How could I not remember you? -- I thought as I walked back into the auditorium, only thinking of Syaoran. I watched, seeing Syaoran as the lead singer and surprisingly Eriol on the electric guitar and Meiling rocking away on the drums.
"Together we broke all the rules, dreaming of dropping out of school and leave this place to never come back."
I smiled at his lyrics. I remembered the time when Syaoran told me he was leaving I told him that I wanted to go too. He had told me that I had school, but I had replied that I could drop out. I laughed, reminiscing.
"So now maybe after all these years, if you miss me have no fear. I'll be here, I'll be waiting."
So he was waiting all this time.
"This could be the one last chance to make you understand, and I just can't let you leave me once again."
His voice rose wonderfully as he started to sing the chorus once again. "I'd do anything just to hold you in my arms. To try to make you laugh. Somehow I can't put you in the past. I'd do anything just to fall asleep with you. Will you remember me? Cause I know I won't forget you."
"I close my eyes and all I see is you. I close my eyes, I try to sleep I can't forget you And I'd do anything for you."
So he wasn't the only one who was thinking these past few days.
Then his voice continued to repeat the chorus once last time before singing his final words, like promises dropping one by one.
"I'd do anything to fall asleep with you."
"I'd do anything, there's nothing I won't do."
"I'd do anything to fall asleep with you."
"I'd do anything cause I know I won't forget you."
No, he didn't forget me. And he never will. Tears welled up in my eyes and it was then I realized Tomoyo was standing next to me smiling. Then she extended her hand and I took it, allowing her to lead the way.
*** Syaoran's POV ***
As the audience flared up into what seemed like a mist of screaming, yelling, cheering, clapping, and all sorts of appreciation, I scanned the audience for who I was looking for. I smiled sadly to myself.
Just whom was I kidding? There was no reason for her to be here; she could of left a long time ago.
I jumped a little when I felt a hand on my shoulder. Turning around, I was thrown into the depths of Meiling's red eyes that contained some sense of sadness and other emotions that I could not identity.
"You must be zoned out if I could make you jump like that," She said. I smiled ruefully. "We have a next song to do, cuz." I nodded. "Suck it up." She told me with a sly grin on her face.
I laughed, yet it was a sad one. I remembered how the Elders used to tell me to keep my emotions inside. Then I grinned, a true smile. No more was I going to do that.
Sakura, wherever you are, this last song is for you.
"Come on everyone! Cheer one last time before Syaoran and his gang is going to sing another song!" The host declared. "Crank it up!!" The guy yelled. This immediately brought the whole crowd cheering.
I waited patiently until the cheering died down.
"This one is for you, girl." I said quietly. I had to hide a smile behind my hand. I could have sworn that every girl out there had just swooned. That just made me smirk.
All those girls were such fakers. I only had one in mind, and that's how it's going to stay.
(The song is going to be a medley of songs, some of the are my own lyrics)
"Do you remember, oh that special time? When I first glared at you?" I sang in the melody of the Romeo and Juliet song I once sang to her, a smile playing on my lips. I remembered that exact time I went to school and saw her for the first time. I had glared at her. "The only thing you did, was Smile. You're an innocent angel, but I'm quite the opposite. Oh Heaven help us!" Syaoran grinned.
"You smile. I glare. It's just as simple as that. We're sworn enemies." Music that we had recorded was flowing out from the speakers. It was a medley of songs, and I could make up lyrics if I wanted to along the way.
"Do you remember, oh that special time? When you first smiled at me?" A sweet, innocent voice replied. I titled my head. This didn't sound like Tomoyo.
"Your sweet eyes, twinkling with happiness. You smile. I smile. It's just as simple as that. We're sworn soul mates."
I turned to see Sakura smiling at me, like the angel she was. I smiled back, feeling it wobble on my face. She continued to sing. "Do you remember me? I remember you."
I smiled. "I'll always remember you." I replied. Then the music blared up and I sang as spring met autumn as I directed my words to her. "You and Me always and forever. You and me always and forever."
"Bop bop bop bop bop." Sakura's voice cheerfully.
They locked eyes. "It was always you and me always." She sang out, to the audience, rather than me, her eyes dancing. The music faded, and became a light peaceful music.
"Don't leave me this way, I can't survive, without your sweet love. Oh, baby, don't leave me this way." Sakura laughed, moving away from him teasingly. She could see those chocolate orbs, begging her.
"Boy, don't you know?" She asked, a smile playing on her lips. "That I've never left you?"
I smiled, extending my hands to her. She smiled back and took it, her warm hand tightly grasping mine, as if she never wanted to leave me. "When they ask me how long I'm gonna love you, if the road to my heart will stay true, I'll say forever. I'll say forever for you."
"They say love is to receive a glimpse of Heaven." Sakura sang softly. "But I think that I'm living in Heaven, if you tell me that you love me." Her emerald eyes were shinning into me, asking me.
"Girl, don't you know?" I asked. I put a finger under her chin and looked into her eyes, getting lost in all the sweetness and love shinning back at me. "I love you." I whispered.
The crowd was going wild, screaming with joy at the romantic scene above, with Tomoyo sighing dreamily as she whispered kawaii and as she prayed the camera man she paid so much for had better get a good footage of this.
"You love me?" She asked, her voice uncertain as soft music played in the back.
"I always have." I repeated.
Her face finally smiled. "I love you too."
The music was rising, and we smiled as we sang together, our voice blending with each other's perfectly. "You and me always and forever. You and me always."
"Bop bop bop bop bop." Sakura sang, her eyes twinkling happily.
"It's always you and me always." The music died out, and only the two of us were left alone on stage quietly, staring into each other's eyes.
"And who I am now, is who is who I want to be. And now that we're together, I'm stronger than ever. I'm happy and free. Oh, it's a beautiful thing. Don't think I can keep it all in." I paused a looked at her; her eyes swimming with heart felt emotion. "And if you asked me why I've changed, all I got to do is say your sweet name."
"So, kiss me." She sang. My eyes widened, and she grinned. "It's been so long, since I've felt your arms around me. Oh, it's a beautiful thing to have your soft lips against mine, giving me all the love you have for me."
"KISS HER!" The audience screamed, after sensing that I was not moving the slightest. I looked over at the audience and smiled.
"It would be me pleasure," I whispered huskily in her ear. "Backstage." I continued. The whole audience groaned, not being able to see the romantic scene. Sakura just laughed, as she wrapped her arms around my neck. I smiled back down at her as I swept her off her feet and carried her backstage with much of the approval of everyone watching.
Once we got backstage, I put her down. But once I looked at her, I found myself getting lost in those sweet eyes and bent down and captured her lips with mine.
I had forgotten what it was like to kiss her. Those sweet lips, tasting like life itself. A warm, tingly feeling rushing up and down my spine, as it took me to cloud nine. It was such a simple kiss, but I could taste her love for me. It was nothing like I've felt before.
And I knew then, truly, that I loved her. And that was all that mattered.
Then I heard someone gasp and I broke away from Sakura reluctantly. She opened her sweet innocent eyes, fluttering at me. Sakura then tilted her head cutely, the way she did when she was confused.
Then I noticed that a pink glow was around my neck. Sakura reached over and when she touched it the light, it stopped glowing and visualized in front of me.
She giggled happily, her fingers running over something. "Sakura?" I asked.
She looked up at me and smiled. "It's your necklace; it's back."
I just stared at her. "Syaoran?"
I didn't reply as floods of memories came rushing back at me. Tons of familiar pictures, each one filling my soul with moments of Sakura, and of us. I could feel myself more real than I ever had felt.
All those card capturing times.
All those blushes I had when I saw her.
The time I hugged her for the first time when she cried, broken hearted that Yukito didn't like her.
The time I called her by her first name when I thought I had lost in her in the elevator.
The time I first told her I liked her in fourth grade.
The bear I gave her at the airport that was currently happily tucked away at my bed.
The first time we kissed, back in seventh grade on that autumn day when I told her I was leaving. The time we became a couple. More than that. Soul mates.
Those many kisses we shared afterwards. Those many sweet smiles she'd give to me. Those gifts she'd carefully wrap on my birthday and Christmas were lovingly placed in a special drawer at home.
And I knew, with her by my side that there was nothing missing in my life.
I blinked my eyes and there was my beauty, looking up at me with confused emeralds. I smiled and cupped her face, and leaned over. "I'll never forget you again." I whispered furiously, blinking the hot tears away from my eyes.
Sakura's eyes opened wide as she squealed and hugged me tightly. I hugged her back. "So you remember everything?"
"Hai."
Sakura paused and I pushed her away so I could look at her. She was so quiet, but then a smile broke out from her face.
"When are we going to go to Hong Kong together?" She asked cutely.
I laughed. "Soon." But instead of smiling, she was frowning. "What now?" I teased. She looked up at me.
"We're still onstage." She replied innocently, making me freeze. Then she laughed.
That's when I found out that she wasn't all the angelic as she seemed. I growled and she took off giggling as I ran after her, laughing. But no matter what, she will always be that angel in my heart. That soul mate. That girl I fell head over heals for back when I was in fourth grade. That angel that made my life worth living.
When people ask me, is my life more important or yours. I'll reply mine. Not because I'm selfish but because you're my life.
Sakura, I love you. And I always will.
Sakura Kinomoto.
*** Third POV ***
Eriol, Tomoyo, and Meiling stood by the side, watching their two friends chasing each other around the mist of people backstage, laughing. "They're just perfect for each to each other." Meiling said, smiling. "Syaoran's hasn't been smiling nor laughing since Syaoran left Sakura in Japan."
"I've noticed." Eriol replied, a sly grin on his face. "I'm hope Syaoran kept it up to his promise that I get to be the best man." He replied, smirking.
"Oh!" Tomoyo cried, getting excited. "I get to be the child's godmother!"
Meiling laughed. "Getting ahead of ourselves, aren't we?" Tomoyo shot her a dirty look, but soon all three friends fell into a pool of laughter and smiles. "Since we're all laughing, can I name the babies?"
This time all her friends heard her, including Sakura and Syaoran who had heard Meiling's request, all shouted, "Heck no!"
Meiling laughed. "That's what I thought, but I just had to ask to make sure." She mused with a grin. Her friends smiled back and soon a glow of happiness, love, and security filled each of their souls.
*** Epilogue***
They were just glad that everything was over. And that everything was back to the way things were. Well, almost. Through the occurrences that happened, Sakura and Syaoran were even closer now, their love only grew deeper as they days passed. They eventually did go to back to Hong Kong, the two of them. Sakura was happily welcomed into the family, bringing great amounts of delight from the Li sisters and from Yelan Li who was happy that her son had found the one who made her son smile brighter each day.
Fujitaka Kinomoto, home back in Tomoeda, Japan, opened his mailbox one day to find a beautifully designed card addressed to him. As he opened it, he smiled with happiness.
For inside, it wrote. "We cordially invite you to the marriage of Kinomoto Sakura and Li Syaoran," and many more blessings.
And of course, he went. Touya and Yukito showed up too and to everyone's surprise, Touya was actually happy about the fact that it was Syaoran who was marrying his kaijuu. Eriol, as Syaoran promised, was the best man. Tomoyo, as Sakura happily agreed to later, was the godmother of her children, even though Sakura kept saying how she didn't plan to have children anytime soon. Tomoyo just gave her that "you better have children soon or I'll know why" look. Meiling was the other godmother, to much of her delight and surprise. But the greatest surprise of all was that she found her very own love of her life, a lucky man who loved to laugh as much as Meiling did. Whose eyes lit up with mischief whenever he teased someone, and that special someone, was usually Meiling.
Eriol and Tomoyo went on to have a romantic love story, right out of a fairy tale. They married, on the anniversary date of the singing competition, honoring the moment when Sakura and Syaoran reunited once again.
And it turns out that Sakura did have children later, much to everyone delight, but most of all Syaoran,........ and of course Tomoyo who was delighted to be a godmother. They had two "kawaii" children. He, a cute little boy, had his father's messy hair and Sakura's sweet emerald pools. And she, a sweet little girl, had her mother's fair hair and her father's rich eyes, except a bit lighter.
Their names?
There's no need to ask. You probably know already.
They named the boy after the guy with the crazy red hair, his love for his Honey Sweet guitar, his laughter, his jokes, his sense of humor. He was named, Ryoko Li.
They named the girl after the angel with her sweet beautiful looks, her bravery in fighting for love, her smiles, her voice, and her good heart. She was named, Kali Li.
And all was happy. And the third angel, whom never showed herself, made sure that it was a happy ending, like a fairy tale. And now that her mission was complete, she could go back teaching that she enjoyed immensely. She smiled, and watched the lovely scene once more as Syaoran hugged his wife as they watched their children play with Kero; Eriol laughing while Tomoyo had her camera; Meiling talking to her lover with shinning happy eyes. Everything was well and perfect. And with that, the third angel left, her long red hair blowing with the wind as her red eyes smiled with delight.
Sakura looked up to the hill where she had sensed someone watching. Then she smiled, running her fingers over her necklace. "Arigato, sensei." She whispered, her wind carrying her voice along.
*****
Many things have changed and some for the better and some for the bad. No one would of expected things to have ended like this, but that was how life worked. Yet even though some things have changed and things will never be the same again, there will always be things that will never change. And one of them would be true friendship. And the other would be true love.
May all of you, find your true love and friendship, and hold it one for all it's worth. One cannot love less; one can only love more.