Daphne: "HI-HO! Thanks to everyone who reviewed this fic, and I hope that
you will continue!
I just wanted to let you guys know that this is one of my most rewarding stories, not only because of all the reviews, but also because I loved writing it a lot! (I like writing *all* of my stories, but this is by far my favorite! I can't put it down!).
Now, I was thinking of making a sequel to this...but only after I finished a few of my un-finished stories. Two, at least.
What do you think? Please tell me in an E-mail or by review! PLEASE!!!!"
~*~*~*~
LOVE OF AGES
by: Daphne Li
Chapter 6.
~*~*~*~
Tomoyo opened her eyes and smiled. Her sleep had been dreamless and restful, even in this new place. She probably would have slept even longer, if it hadn't been for the tiny black puff of fur that had woken her up with his constant purring. With a smile, she pulled Spinel close, petting him affectionately.
"So you came to say 'good morning', did you?" She joked, as the kitten nuzzled her cheek. She laughed and climbed out of the huge bed, feeling refreshed. She quickly made her way over to the wardrobe, and looked through it, trying to find an outfit. Finally, she chose a light yellow T- shirt with a matching yellow skirt that reached down to her knees. She slipped on some nylons, and then added plain yellow pumps to the picture. Simple, yet flattering.
"What do you think?" She asked, turning towards the kitten, who was lying on her bed. He looked at her and yawned.
"You're right. The hair needs some work." She stated, quickly walking over to a vanity that was situated near the wardrobe, and brushed her hair. She then pulled it back into a long braid. When she was finished, she grabbed a light blue knit jacket to go over her shirt, and then picked up the kitten and walked down the stairs. She heard voices coming from the dinning room, so she turned her steps towards that direction.
"Good morning, everyone!" Tomoyo said cheerfully, putting the kitten down next to a wide-awake baby Seamus. Nakuru hugged her tightly as the other three occupants chimed their 'good mornings'. Then Tomoyo caught sight of Eriol's outfit.
"Oh! You don't have to go out, do you?" She asked, dismayed. He was dressed in his usual office-wear, and looking quite distinguished, in her opinion. But she had been hoping to spend the day getting re-aquatinted with him. Eriol smiled.
"I'm afraid so. Something came up at the office and they need me." He said, as he sat back down to his meal. Tomoyo looked upset, but then her face lit up.
"Oh! May I come with you? I have to go into town anyway, to assure mother, Naoko and Meiling that I am still alive. Oh, they would be so happy to see you!" Tomoyo said, her voice pleading. Eriol looked thoughtful, then nodded.
"We could do that on the way home from the office, if you'd like. And I would be happy to have you along, today." He assented. She gave a happy yelp, and then hurried to finish her own breakfast. Milly went over her schedule for the day, and Touya admitted that he too, needed to go into work, today. Nakuru looked disappointed, but decided that she should stay home to spend some quality time with her son.
When they were through, Touya went out to get the car, while Tomoyo rushed to get her purse. It turned out that Eriol had decided to take his sleek black sports car to work today, but Touya insisted on driving it. He too, had his own cars, but they were less showy, and were used for weekends on the road or in the country.
Tomoyo exclaimed at some of the places the men pointed out to her as they passed, many of them, Eriol admitted, belonged to his company. He even showed her where the town apartment he owned was, but she agreed that she liked the present home better.
"Here we are." Touya announced, as they pulled into a parking space reserved for Eriol's car. They all got out and entered the large building, Tomoyo looking around her in awe. The lobby itself was impressive, with a large fountain in the center and much greenery around the sitting areas. There were also plenty of secretaries at hand, all of them nodding respectfully as the trio passed.
"It's lovely, Eriol!" Tomoyo gasped, as they got into the elevator which took them to the third floor. He smiled and led her out, taking her one way while Touya went another.
"I have to stop by the meeting room for a while. You can either stay out here, or go in with me."
"I want to go in!" She laughed, so he agreeably led her into the glass- encased room, where many men sat, waiting. They all looked at the beautiful young woman with a mixture of awe and confusion. Their boss, Mr. Hiiragizawa, had never brought *any* guests to the office, and certainly not women! It was a well known fact that Hiiragizawa Eriol was a woman- hater, and stayed away from them at all costs. So their reaction should have come as no surprise to anyone.
"Now, let's get down to business. Kajabou and co. have agreed to our contract, and are presently in the process of signing it. This is a big victory for us, and I need some of you to go through the files, and find anything you think will help with this..." Eriol's strong voice carried on for quite a few minutes, Tomoyo listening silently in the background. She had taken a seat near the door, and was listening to the meeting in obvious interest.
After about half an hour, Eriol dismissed the men and stood up. The men all left, shooting her confused looks, while she got up and waited for Eriol. He shot her a smile and then led her down a long hallway, to a door. Above that door was a gold plaque that read: 'Eriol Hiiragizawa'. He opened the door and ushered her in, only to be stopped by a voice.
"Took you long enough, Hiiragizawa...wait a minute, you're not Eriol!" Eriol grinned and stepped out from behind Tomoyo. Tyson Burnside stood there, smiling at the girl.
"Hey! You're that woman from the airplane! The one across the isle!" Tyson exclaimed, stepping forward and shaking her hand.
"Tomoyo, this is my friend Tyson Burnside, the other name of this company. Tyson, I am sure that you remember me mentioning Daidouji Tomoyo, my best friend from Japan." Eriol introduced. Tyson's eyes widened and he gaped.
"I sure do! It is a real pleasure meeting you, Miss Daidouji! Please call me Tyson." He rattled off. Tomoyo laughed.
"Then I insist that you call me Tomoyo. And it is nice to meet you as well." She said. Then she turned to Eriol, who was bending over some paperwork and glared.
"You never mentioned him last night." She accused. Eriol smiled and sat down behind his desk.
"Sit down, it will take a while." He instructed. Tomoyo and Tyson sat on the leather couch, and listened attentively as Eriol began this part of his story.
*FLASHBACK*
Eriol looked around his hospital room, bored. He had been here for over two weeks now, and it was getting old. There was nothing on TV, he had read all of his books at least two times, Nakuru was off at school and Milly at work, the nurses had made him take some horrible medicine and then wouldn't let him out of bed. They had agreed to raise the upper part of his bed, so he could sit up, but that was all.
With a sigh, he gazed around the room, wondering what to do. Suddenly, his hospital-room door slammed open, and a figure rushed in, bolting underneath his bed. Eriol gave a yelp, but silenced as a tormented-looking nurse rushed into the room, her face pinched and angry.
"You, boy. Has anyone come in here lately?" She snapped. Eriol frowned, not liking her attitude. He feigned innocence.
"Ummm...my nurses, my cousin, some man, a minister I think, from a nearby church..." He pretended to think up more, but the nurse became impatient.
"Never mind!" She quickly walked out of the room, slamming the door behind her. Eriol grinned and then leaned back against his pillows.
"She's gone. You can come out now." He called. There was a shuffle and then a boy about his age popped out from under the bed, grinning. He had wavy blonde hair and sky-blue eyes that twinkled at Eriol cheekily.
"Thanks for not telling. I have been trying to get away from her for hours!" The boy exclaimed. Then his eyes fell on the white bandage that covered Eriol's head.
"OY! What happened to you?" He asked.
"I had brain surgery. I had a tumor. What are you in for?" Eriol asked. The other boy winced.
"I had my appendix out, but something went wrong and they had to keep me here. The doctors still won't let me out, and I am bloody near dying of boredom." The boy sighed. Eriol smiled.
"I'm Eriol Hiiragizawa." He said, holding out his hand. The other boy took it and shook it heartily.
"Tyson Burnside, at your service! So, how much longer do you have to stay here?" Tyson asked. Eriol told him, and then went over his past condition. Tyson listened in wonder, and then grinned.
"Bloody! I wouldn't like to go through that! You sure are brave." He commented. So this is how the doctor found them, hours later. Tyson was sitting on Eriol's bed, arguing over some soccer game he had seen on TV, and Eriol was arguing back. Both boys were looking bright and happy, unlike the doctor had ever seen either of them.
"Best let them be. They'll do each other good." The doctor whispered to the head nurse and she moved to enter the room. She nodded and went in, reassuring the defiant boys that they could keep visiting.
From that time on, Eriol and Tyson were inseparable. Tyson came to visit Eriol every day in the hospital, and Eriol shared his adventures in Japan with his new friend. Their friendship continued on through the years, strong and healthy, just like friendships should be.
*END FLASHBACK*
"So that's what happened." Tyson finished for Eriol. Tomoyo's eyes were sparkling by the end of this story.
"I even saw him walk his first steps. It was just like watching a baby!" Tyson laughed. Eriol growled and bent back over his work while Tomoyo and Tyson chatted.
"Hey, buddy, you would mind me...you know, coming along for the ride, would you?" Tyson asked, when Tomoyo told him of their plans for the afternoon. Eriol shook his head and kept his eyes on his work. Tyson rolled his eyes.
"He's a workaholic. He needs some serious down time, but he refuses to take it." Tyson sighed. Tomoyo grinned.
"Are you almost done, Eriol?" She asked softly, coming up behind him and peeking over his shoulder. This made him look up and smile at her. Tyson rolled his eyes. Sure, the man couldn't pay attention to his business companion and best friend, but he could pay attention to this ravishing young woman. Go figure.
"Ahh, the deaf hath heard! Tis' a miracle!" Tyson teased, as Touya walked into the room.
"Guys, I have to stay here a little longer, so you can go without me. I am getting a ride home with Kaho. She was nice enough to offer." Touya stated. Eriol looked up, in apparent interest.
"Kaho? All right. Tell her I said 'hello'." He said, stacking the papers he had been working on and sliding them into a file. Then he got up and led them all out of the room.
"Bye, Touya!" Tomoyo called, hugging him quickly before she, Eriol and Tyson exited the office. She smiled.
"This place reminds me so much of my office." She murmured, as they walked back out to the parking lot. Eriol smiled and held the passenger door open for her. Tyson bounded into the back-seat and jokingly jumped around on the cushions.
"Are we there yet?" He called, as Eriol pulled out. Tomoyo burst into laughter.
"Put your seat-belt on, you big lummox." Eriol droned. Tyson stuck out his tongue but did as he said.
"I have to go POTTY!" Tyson whined two minutes later, making a big show of crossing his legs and scrunching up his face in concentration. Tomoyo giggled again, turned in her seat, and whacked him over the head.
"Two points for the visitors." Eriol said in a monotone voice. Both of the passengers burst into laughter.
~*~*~*~
"Tomoyo! Dear! How was your night?" Sonomi called, as Tomoyo let herself into her mother's apartment. Tomoyo grinned when she saw that Meiling, Naoko, Omata and Robert were there as well, all waiting for her to answer. Tomoyo sat casually on the couch and shrugged.
"It was fine. I had the most interesting conversation with Mrs. Totum. It was as if we had known each other since I was young! Quite strange, don't you think?" Tomoyo asked, egging her mother on. Sonomi's face fell.
"You...you didn't recognize her?" Sonomi asked. Tomoyo pretended to look confused.
"What on earth do you mean, mother?" She asked innocently, her eyes flickering over to the doorway, where two shadows hid just behind the corner. Her mother sighed.
"You *did* know her, dear. In fact, you were quite close to her charge, Eriol Hiiragizawa, who, I believe passed away soon after his operation." Sonomi's voice was sorrowful, and Tomoyo found it hard to keep a straight face. One of the shadows snorted silently, while the other elbowed his counterpart. Finally, they couldn't take it anymore, and Tomoyo burst into happy laughter. Everyone, especially Meiling and Naoko, looked at her as if she were crazy, but turned when someone else entered the room.
"Yeah, I knew him! His brains just exploded out of his head one day, and I was there to witness it. Pretty gruesome, if you ask me." The young man stated. Naoko gave a start.
"Mr. Burnside?" She gasped. Tyson looked at her in shock.
"Why, Miss Naoko! What a surprise! I..."
"Brains exploded out of his head, huh? Well then, I suppose he would be considered a genius now." A second young man came around the corner and everyone except Tomoyo and Tyson looked at him in bewilderment.
"All right. Who are you, and what do you want?" Meiling finally spat, getting her wits together. Eriol looked over at her in wide-eyed innocence.
"Oh, just a guy who's brains exploded out of his head one day, and Tyson was there to witness it. He was also there to pick it all up." Eriol said sarcastically. Tomoyo giggled and then turned to Meiling and Naoko, who were looking quite scandalized.
"Meiling, Naoko, doesn't he look familiar? I mean, he is a bit taller..." She trailed off. Meiling looked at her in annoyance.
"If I had recognized him, I wouldn't be standing here, asking him who he was, now would I?" Meiling snapped. Eriol just grinned.
"Really, Mei. Would you recognize me if I grunted and groaned, and sat limp in a chair. Perhaps you would prefer me like that?" Eriol asked, his blue eyes twinkling at her. Meiling gasped in half-shock, half-annoyance. How could he mock her old friend like that? How could he possibly know about Eriol?
"Just tell me your gosh-darn name!" She hissed. Eriol bowed.
"Oh, I think that you know it quite well, Meiling. Think really hard, back to yesteryear...perhaps your second year in school? Does that ring a bell?" He asked. Tomoyo sighed in anxiousness.
"Think Meiling, and you too, Naoko. Think really hard." She sighed. Meiling frowned in concentration, but Naoko was already pale, her mouth wide open. She tried to say something, but nothing came out of her mouth. Her pretty brown eyes were wide and her fists were clenched in disbelief. But it had to be true! How else would he know about that?!
"Eriol?...ERIOL!!!" Naoko breathed the first part, and then shrieked the last part as she threw herself into the young man's arms. Meiling's mouth fell open and she choked, then tears filled her eyes.
"Eriol? You're alive?" She whimpered, looking faint. Eriol smiled at her over Naoko's shoulder, and the black haired girl lost no time in launching herself at the man.
"ERIOL! YOU'RE ALIVE! YOU TALK! YOU'RE WALKING!" Meiling cried, burying her face in his shoulder and holding him close. Naoko had given up her post and stood by, watching with happy tears streaming down her cheeks. By now, Sonomi had realized what was going on, and she too, turned pale.
"Eriol? Little Hiiragizawa Eriol? Milly said nothing to me! I thought you were dead!" The older woman breathed. Eriol smiled and took her hand, kissing it.
"I missed you as well Daidouji-sama." He murmured.
"Could someone please tell me what is going on?" Robert asked in an offended voice. Both Tomoyo and Eriol turned sharply at his voice, and Eriol narrowed his eyes at the other man.
"Mr. Roderick, I'd like you to meet my old childhood friend, Eriol Hiiragizawa. Eriol, this is Mr. Roderick." Tomoyo said. Neither man moved to shake hands, and Eriol raised his eyebrow at Tomoyo.
"Touya will want to meet this one." He whispered to her. Unfortunately, Sonomi overheard and frowned at the man's rudeness; but it was quickly washed away when she heard the name, 'Touya'.
"Oh! Touya Kinomoto? Do you know him?" She asked eagerly. Eriol smiled and bowed.
"Madam, he is my cousin-in-law, and my co-worker." He said suavely. Sonomi gasped in delight and clasped her hands together.
"Well, we will certainly have to visit him, then! In fact, we will have to visit all of them!" Sonomi stated. Eriol smiled.
"That is a wonderful idea. Milly needs someone her own age around, and she would love to see you, not to mention my cousin, Nakuru. Why don't you all come to dinner. I will call and have cook prepare a special dinner." Eriol stated. Sonomi nodded in delight, and quickly led him over to the phone. Meiling was telling her husband about Eriol, and Naoko was talking eagerly to Tomoyo, her eyes sparkling happily. Tyson stood in the background, watching Naoko with a smile, until Tomoyo pulled him forward and made a more formal introduction between the two.
"I talked to Milly, and she is eager to see you all." Eriol came back into the room, smiling. Meiling gave a squeal.
"Oh, I can't wait to see her! It really has been too long!" The girl stated. Eriol was then introduced to Omata, and the two became fast friends. The whole group made it's way into the sitting room and they stayed there, chatting for the rest of the afternoon.
~*~*~*~
"Ah, there's the limo." Tyson called, as the group stood, waiting for the car. Eriol had offered to take Meiling, Omata and Naoko in his car, but Naoko had insisted on staying with Sonomi. Personally, Tomoyo knew that she had only stayed so she could chat more with Tyson, who had offered to escort Sonomi and Robert to the mansion. They all quickly climbed in, and then looked around the spacious interior.
"Well, he certainly spared no expense in renting a vehicle." Robert said snappily. Tyson turned and forced a smile.
"This isn't a rented limo, it's Mr. Hiiragizawa's. In fact, this is only one of the three he owns, not including his five cars and two motorcycles. Plus a bike or two." Tyson stated. Naoko gaped.
"He's really that wealthy?" She managed. Tyson laughed.
"He is one of England's most eligible bachelors. In fact, he would never tell you this, but he is also one of its most wealthy inhabitants. His cousin is no push-over either. She has quite a inheritance herself." Tyson said proudly. Robert sniffed.
"So how did you come to be his friend?" He asked stiffly. Tyson grinned.
"Well, first I met him in the hospital, and we became friends. Then we found out we were next-door neighbors as well, which just added to our comradeship." He said. Naoko looked a little upset when she heard this.
"So...I suppose you too, are very wealthy." She murmured, looking down at her hands. Tyson smiled.
"I'd hate to brag, but I can't say that I am not well off." He answered. Sonomi smiled at his humility, but Naoko turned her face towards the window. She had grown up in a rather poor family, so she had had no real encounters with wealth (besides Tomoyo) until she had become a writer. Even then, she had not considered herself wealthy, so she was quite unsure when she found out that this man was rich. What must he think of her? She had practically thrown herself at him on the plane, and he had been so kind about it...oh what a fool she was!
"Miss Naoko, are you all right?" Tyson asked, a worried frown on his face. Naoko forced a smile and nodded, but couldn't bring herself to say anything. They rode silently to the mansion, and as they drove around the curve, they saw Tomoyo, Meiling, Omata and Eriol waiting for them.
"Hello! We thought you'd never come!" Tomoyo teased, as they got out. Her mother smiled and hugged her, but then spotted the woman standing on the steps behind her.
"Milly!" Sonomi called, rushing to hug the other woman. Milly laughed but a loud wail cut her off.
"Seamus! I've forgotten about him!" Milly gasped. Tomoyo quickly bolted inside, unaware of the funny looks she was getting from family and friends. Eriol hurried up behind her, while Tyson stood looking anxiously up at the baby's bedroom window. There were a few minutes of silence, before Eriol came back down with Seamus in his arms and Tomoyo by his side, cooing at the baby.
"Eriol! Is that..." Meiling trailed off, gazing at the baby.
"Are you married?" Naoko filled in. At this, Tyson, Milly, Eriol and Tomoyo burst into laughter.
"This is my nephew...of sorts. He is the son of my cousin." Eriol explained, holding up the baby. Seamus looked around at all the new people and smiled.
"OH! He's a doll!" Naoko crooned, walking over and stroking the baby's cheek.
"He's *my* doll!" Came a deep voice from behind them. Everyone turned to see three people standing behind them.
"Touya?!" Sonomi gasped, as she caught sight of her nephew. He grinned at her and bowed.
"Aunt Sonomi, may I introduce you to my wife, Kinomoto Nakuru? And I see that you have already met our son, Seamus." Touya introduced. Sonomi looked astonished but willingly took Nakuru's hand when offered. Then Touya motioned for the third person to come forward.
"Everyone, this is Kaho. She works with Tyson, Eriol and I. I invited her over for dinner, so I hope you don't mind." He stated. The woman next to him had long red-brown hair and brown eyes that were big and mysterious. The woman's eyes fell on Eriol, and began to sparkle.
"It is a pleasure to meet you." She murmured. Tomoyo smiled and stepped forward.
"Eriol, you should have mentioned her to me! I would have visited her while I was at the office with you." She exclaimed, shaking the woman's hand. Kaho was not much older than herself, about twenty. When she heard Tomoyo's comment, though, she looked the girl over sharply.
"Tomoyo is my cousin, and an old friend of Eriol's." Touya explained as they all walked inside. Kaho's face relaxed and she smiled winningly at Eriol.
"Yes, Eriol! You should have told us about one another!" She agreed. Eriol looked over at her and smiled, which caused Kaho's cheeks to turn slightly pink. Meiling, who was walking behind them, frowned. For some reason, she didn't like this girl.
"Touya, Nakuru, may I talk with you, alone, for a moment?" She questioned. The two in question nodded and they quickly led her to the front sitting room.
~*~*~*~
"I don't like her." Meiling stated dryly, as Touya shut the door behind them. Nakuru nodded and Touya looked worried.
"I've never liked her much either. Not since she tried to get Touya into bed with her, after we were engaged." Nakuru hissed, her eyes flashing in anger. Touya looked at the floor.
"She didn't know we were engaged. I've tried giving her the benefit of the doubt, that is why I invited her over. But...Nakuru's right. Kaho definitely seems to have some sort of attraction to Eriol, as well." Touya commented.
"But wait! Why did she try to get you in bed?" Meiling asked. Touya winced.
"She was brand new in the company, and I was showing her the ropes. Apparently she got the wrong ideas about me and thought I was coming onto her." He was blushing as he said this, and Meiling fumed.
"So now she is after Eriol." She hissed. Nakuru snorted.
"I'd say she was after his bank account." She muttered. Touya looked at her, frowning, and Meiling growled. She was about to say more, but Tomoyo's voice cut in.
"Meiling? Touya, Nakuru? Supper's ready!" She called from the dinning room. The three looked at each other and silently agreed not to say another word in front of anyone else.
"Coming!" They yelled in unison, linking arms and walking out of the room. When they had been small, Meiling used to visit Sakura a lot. Since Sakura's father worked, Touya usually ended up watching them, and he had become a sort-of surrogate brother to her over the years.
"What did you talk about?" Tomoyo asked, as they entered the dinning room. Everyone else was seated, and Seamus was in his playpen nearby. The three simply shook their heads and sat down, saying nothing. Tomoyo, Omata and Naoko shot them all funny looks, but wisely decided not to say anything.
"Now, how have you been, Sonomi. We barely had any time to talk when you called." Milly reminded. Sonomi smiled.
"I am still the proud owner of Daidouji Toys, but I have cut my schedule down quite a bit, so I can spend more time with Tomoyo." Sonomi stated, looking affectionately at her daughter.
"Oh? And what do you do, Miss Daidouji?" Kaho asked politely. Tomoyo smiled at her.
"I am a business woman. I have my own fashion line, and I am here to promote it." She explained. Kaho nodded and turned to Meiling.
"And you?" She asked. Meiling forced back a growl and pasted a smile on her face.
"I am Tomoyo's manager/confidante, aka, anything else I need to be. And Naoko is our record keeper and also a company entrepreneur." Meiling explained. Kaho made a delicate 'o' with her mouth and nodded.
"That's very interesting. Eriol, isn't that wonderful?" Kaho asked, putting a hand on his sleeve. Eriol smiled at her and nodded.
"My old friends have certainly turned out to be outstanding people. Sometimes I wonder where the time went, though." He joked. Tomoyo wrinkled her nose.
"Into your pocketbook?" She teased back. Eriol's eyes flashed with suppressed mirth.
"Or into yours, Tomoyo-dearest." He chuckled. Tomoyo grinned.
"But you are right. We have missed so much, loosing contact like this. I feel like I was deprived." She murmured, smiling at the gathered group. Eriol smiled and patted her arm.
"On the contrary, Tomoyo, it was *us* who was deprived of your presence." He stated, his eyes still mischievous. Tomoyo's mouth worked, as she suppressed a laugh. Everyone was watching them, and no one noticed that Kaho's face was becoming a thundercloud and her eyes were darkening. Under the table, she clenched her fist around the cloth napkin and her nails bit into the fabric.
~*~*~*~
"Oh, but won't you stay? We have plenty of room!" Milly pleaded, as Sonomi, Meiling, Omata and Naoko went to take their leave later that evening. Tyson had offered to drive Kaho to her home, and they had left only minutes before.
"We would love to, but our things are in the hotel." Sonomi said haltingly as she looked at Robert's stony face. Tomoyo saw this as well, and immediately raised up complaint.
"But mother, you can bring your things back here, and check out tonight! I'm sure that we can arrange that, and I know that Meiling and Naoko don't want to go since Eriol has now been discovered." Tomoyo looked at her mother through wide, pleading eyes that were impossible to resist.
"All right! We'll stay!" Sonomi finally sighed. The girls gave a cheer and even Omata seemed to perk up. Robert, however, was a different story.
"I believe that it would be best if I stay in the hotel. My business partners are expecting me to be there if anything turns up, and I cannot let them down." He stated. It was no surprise when no one tried to dissuade him from this.
"I'll drive you over." Touya suggested as he left to bring the car around. Tomoyo decided to stay and help put Seamus to bed, while Eriol told them he had some business to take care of.
"Did you like her?" Nakuru asked, as she dressed Seamus in his sleeper. Tomoyo, who was rattling a toy above the baby, frowned.
"What do you mean?" She questioned. Nakuru sighed.
"Kaho. What do you think of her?" She asked. Tomoyo looked down.
"I am sure she is very nice...but she seemed awfully quiet during dinner. And she seemed to clench her teeth a lot. Perhaps she has a problem with that? I know that Chiharu used to, and she almost had to get a retainer..."
"I don't think habit had anything to do with it, Tomoyo. I don't like her, period. She may seem nice, but there is just something about her." Nakuru slammed the baby-powder onto the changing table and a puff of the stuff rose into her face, causing her to cough. Tomoyo laughed and picked up the baby.
"Well, she was nice to me. I will keep an eye on her, though." Tomoyo assured her, as she sat in a rocking chair and rocked the baby. Nakuru sat in the chair across from her and watched them thoughtfully.
"You are very good with children, Tomoyo. You look so at-home with a baby in your arms." Nakuru stated. Tomoyo blushed.
"I am young Nakuru. Don't you go trying to push me into a relationship like my mother does. I have enough trouble trying to keep away from all the men she shoves at me." Tomoyo sighed. There was a chuckle from outside the door.
"Let me take a guess at how many places you have found to hide from them." Came Eriol's voice, as the man himself entered the room. Tomoyo grinned.
"Oh, I just run over to Meiling's or Naoko's or Chiharu's. They always cover for me." She laughed. He grinned and sat down on the floor near them, placing a very sleepy-looking Spinel in his lap.
"What about you? You must have been quite a heartbreaker as well." Tomoyo giggled. Eriol's face became serious.
"I suppose." He muttered. Nakuru sighed.
"One of the first girls who hit on him was the very same girl who had teased him just before he left for Japan. Ever since then, he has practically outlawed women's presence around him. Milly, myself, and Kaho are about the only ones he really seems to like." Nakuru spit out Kaho's name, but Eriol smiled when she listed it. Tomoyo saw this and worry filled her heart. Did her dear old friend like...or even love Kaho?
"You mean until we came." Tomoyo added, trying to keep her voice from wavering. Eriol smiled at her and nodded.
"I don't mind any of my old friends, who knew me even before the operation! Heck, you know me better than Milly!" He laughed. Tomoyo's fears were forgotten at these words, and she laughed joyfully. Nakuru grinned and gently lifted the sleeping Seamus from her arms and into his crib. Then they silently walked out of the room and shut the door. Nakuru wandered off down the hall, and Tomoyo wandered down the stairs and into the sitting room. She sat down on a couch to read, but before she could so much as open the book, a hand gently rested on her shoulder. She looked back to see Eriol's deep, mysterious eyes boring into hers.
"I'm glad you're back, Tomoyo." He murmured. She smiled.
"I missed you, Eriol. More than you will ever know." She whispered, pulling him into a hug as tears filled her eyes. His arms surrounded her and she let her tears fall. He sat down on the couch, and held her close, letting her cry. They had been so busy yesterday, this was the first real time that they had had, alone.
Gently, he stroked her hair, listening to her tell him of her life while he was away. He listened, his eyes shining at the thought of his old friend, growing up like she described. After a while, they had both exhausted themselves and they fell asleep in each others arms.
Just like two friends healing from years of wounds of the heart.
~*~*~*~
I just wanted to let you guys know that this is one of my most rewarding stories, not only because of all the reviews, but also because I loved writing it a lot! (I like writing *all* of my stories, but this is by far my favorite! I can't put it down!).
Now, I was thinking of making a sequel to this...but only after I finished a few of my un-finished stories. Two, at least.
What do you think? Please tell me in an E-mail or by review! PLEASE!!!!"
~*~*~*~
LOVE OF AGES
by: Daphne Li
Chapter 6.
~*~*~*~
Tomoyo opened her eyes and smiled. Her sleep had been dreamless and restful, even in this new place. She probably would have slept even longer, if it hadn't been for the tiny black puff of fur that had woken her up with his constant purring. With a smile, she pulled Spinel close, petting him affectionately.
"So you came to say 'good morning', did you?" She joked, as the kitten nuzzled her cheek. She laughed and climbed out of the huge bed, feeling refreshed. She quickly made her way over to the wardrobe, and looked through it, trying to find an outfit. Finally, she chose a light yellow T- shirt with a matching yellow skirt that reached down to her knees. She slipped on some nylons, and then added plain yellow pumps to the picture. Simple, yet flattering.
"What do you think?" She asked, turning towards the kitten, who was lying on her bed. He looked at her and yawned.
"You're right. The hair needs some work." She stated, quickly walking over to a vanity that was situated near the wardrobe, and brushed her hair. She then pulled it back into a long braid. When she was finished, she grabbed a light blue knit jacket to go over her shirt, and then picked up the kitten and walked down the stairs. She heard voices coming from the dinning room, so she turned her steps towards that direction.
"Good morning, everyone!" Tomoyo said cheerfully, putting the kitten down next to a wide-awake baby Seamus. Nakuru hugged her tightly as the other three occupants chimed their 'good mornings'. Then Tomoyo caught sight of Eriol's outfit.
"Oh! You don't have to go out, do you?" She asked, dismayed. He was dressed in his usual office-wear, and looking quite distinguished, in her opinion. But she had been hoping to spend the day getting re-aquatinted with him. Eriol smiled.
"I'm afraid so. Something came up at the office and they need me." He said, as he sat back down to his meal. Tomoyo looked upset, but then her face lit up.
"Oh! May I come with you? I have to go into town anyway, to assure mother, Naoko and Meiling that I am still alive. Oh, they would be so happy to see you!" Tomoyo said, her voice pleading. Eriol looked thoughtful, then nodded.
"We could do that on the way home from the office, if you'd like. And I would be happy to have you along, today." He assented. She gave a happy yelp, and then hurried to finish her own breakfast. Milly went over her schedule for the day, and Touya admitted that he too, needed to go into work, today. Nakuru looked disappointed, but decided that she should stay home to spend some quality time with her son.
When they were through, Touya went out to get the car, while Tomoyo rushed to get her purse. It turned out that Eriol had decided to take his sleek black sports car to work today, but Touya insisted on driving it. He too, had his own cars, but they were less showy, and were used for weekends on the road or in the country.
Tomoyo exclaimed at some of the places the men pointed out to her as they passed, many of them, Eriol admitted, belonged to his company. He even showed her where the town apartment he owned was, but she agreed that she liked the present home better.
"Here we are." Touya announced, as they pulled into a parking space reserved for Eriol's car. They all got out and entered the large building, Tomoyo looking around her in awe. The lobby itself was impressive, with a large fountain in the center and much greenery around the sitting areas. There were also plenty of secretaries at hand, all of them nodding respectfully as the trio passed.
"It's lovely, Eriol!" Tomoyo gasped, as they got into the elevator which took them to the third floor. He smiled and led her out, taking her one way while Touya went another.
"I have to stop by the meeting room for a while. You can either stay out here, or go in with me."
"I want to go in!" She laughed, so he agreeably led her into the glass- encased room, where many men sat, waiting. They all looked at the beautiful young woman with a mixture of awe and confusion. Their boss, Mr. Hiiragizawa, had never brought *any* guests to the office, and certainly not women! It was a well known fact that Hiiragizawa Eriol was a woman- hater, and stayed away from them at all costs. So their reaction should have come as no surprise to anyone.
"Now, let's get down to business. Kajabou and co. have agreed to our contract, and are presently in the process of signing it. This is a big victory for us, and I need some of you to go through the files, and find anything you think will help with this..." Eriol's strong voice carried on for quite a few minutes, Tomoyo listening silently in the background. She had taken a seat near the door, and was listening to the meeting in obvious interest.
After about half an hour, Eriol dismissed the men and stood up. The men all left, shooting her confused looks, while she got up and waited for Eriol. He shot her a smile and then led her down a long hallway, to a door. Above that door was a gold plaque that read: 'Eriol Hiiragizawa'. He opened the door and ushered her in, only to be stopped by a voice.
"Took you long enough, Hiiragizawa...wait a minute, you're not Eriol!" Eriol grinned and stepped out from behind Tomoyo. Tyson Burnside stood there, smiling at the girl.
"Hey! You're that woman from the airplane! The one across the isle!" Tyson exclaimed, stepping forward and shaking her hand.
"Tomoyo, this is my friend Tyson Burnside, the other name of this company. Tyson, I am sure that you remember me mentioning Daidouji Tomoyo, my best friend from Japan." Eriol introduced. Tyson's eyes widened and he gaped.
"I sure do! It is a real pleasure meeting you, Miss Daidouji! Please call me Tyson." He rattled off. Tomoyo laughed.
"Then I insist that you call me Tomoyo. And it is nice to meet you as well." She said. Then she turned to Eriol, who was bending over some paperwork and glared.
"You never mentioned him last night." She accused. Eriol smiled and sat down behind his desk.
"Sit down, it will take a while." He instructed. Tomoyo and Tyson sat on the leather couch, and listened attentively as Eriol began this part of his story.
*FLASHBACK*
Eriol looked around his hospital room, bored. He had been here for over two weeks now, and it was getting old. There was nothing on TV, he had read all of his books at least two times, Nakuru was off at school and Milly at work, the nurses had made him take some horrible medicine and then wouldn't let him out of bed. They had agreed to raise the upper part of his bed, so he could sit up, but that was all.
With a sigh, he gazed around the room, wondering what to do. Suddenly, his hospital-room door slammed open, and a figure rushed in, bolting underneath his bed. Eriol gave a yelp, but silenced as a tormented-looking nurse rushed into the room, her face pinched and angry.
"You, boy. Has anyone come in here lately?" She snapped. Eriol frowned, not liking her attitude. He feigned innocence.
"Ummm...my nurses, my cousin, some man, a minister I think, from a nearby church..." He pretended to think up more, but the nurse became impatient.
"Never mind!" She quickly walked out of the room, slamming the door behind her. Eriol grinned and then leaned back against his pillows.
"She's gone. You can come out now." He called. There was a shuffle and then a boy about his age popped out from under the bed, grinning. He had wavy blonde hair and sky-blue eyes that twinkled at Eriol cheekily.
"Thanks for not telling. I have been trying to get away from her for hours!" The boy exclaimed. Then his eyes fell on the white bandage that covered Eriol's head.
"OY! What happened to you?" He asked.
"I had brain surgery. I had a tumor. What are you in for?" Eriol asked. The other boy winced.
"I had my appendix out, but something went wrong and they had to keep me here. The doctors still won't let me out, and I am bloody near dying of boredom." The boy sighed. Eriol smiled.
"I'm Eriol Hiiragizawa." He said, holding out his hand. The other boy took it and shook it heartily.
"Tyson Burnside, at your service! So, how much longer do you have to stay here?" Tyson asked. Eriol told him, and then went over his past condition. Tyson listened in wonder, and then grinned.
"Bloody! I wouldn't like to go through that! You sure are brave." He commented. So this is how the doctor found them, hours later. Tyson was sitting on Eriol's bed, arguing over some soccer game he had seen on TV, and Eriol was arguing back. Both boys were looking bright and happy, unlike the doctor had ever seen either of them.
"Best let them be. They'll do each other good." The doctor whispered to the head nurse and she moved to enter the room. She nodded and went in, reassuring the defiant boys that they could keep visiting.
From that time on, Eriol and Tyson were inseparable. Tyson came to visit Eriol every day in the hospital, and Eriol shared his adventures in Japan with his new friend. Their friendship continued on through the years, strong and healthy, just like friendships should be.
*END FLASHBACK*
"So that's what happened." Tyson finished for Eriol. Tomoyo's eyes were sparkling by the end of this story.
"I even saw him walk his first steps. It was just like watching a baby!" Tyson laughed. Eriol growled and bent back over his work while Tomoyo and Tyson chatted.
"Hey, buddy, you would mind me...you know, coming along for the ride, would you?" Tyson asked, when Tomoyo told him of their plans for the afternoon. Eriol shook his head and kept his eyes on his work. Tyson rolled his eyes.
"He's a workaholic. He needs some serious down time, but he refuses to take it." Tyson sighed. Tomoyo grinned.
"Are you almost done, Eriol?" She asked softly, coming up behind him and peeking over his shoulder. This made him look up and smile at her. Tyson rolled his eyes. Sure, the man couldn't pay attention to his business companion and best friend, but he could pay attention to this ravishing young woman. Go figure.
"Ahh, the deaf hath heard! Tis' a miracle!" Tyson teased, as Touya walked into the room.
"Guys, I have to stay here a little longer, so you can go without me. I am getting a ride home with Kaho. She was nice enough to offer." Touya stated. Eriol looked up, in apparent interest.
"Kaho? All right. Tell her I said 'hello'." He said, stacking the papers he had been working on and sliding them into a file. Then he got up and led them all out of the room.
"Bye, Touya!" Tomoyo called, hugging him quickly before she, Eriol and Tyson exited the office. She smiled.
"This place reminds me so much of my office." She murmured, as they walked back out to the parking lot. Eriol smiled and held the passenger door open for her. Tyson bounded into the back-seat and jokingly jumped around on the cushions.
"Are we there yet?" He called, as Eriol pulled out. Tomoyo burst into laughter.
"Put your seat-belt on, you big lummox." Eriol droned. Tyson stuck out his tongue but did as he said.
"I have to go POTTY!" Tyson whined two minutes later, making a big show of crossing his legs and scrunching up his face in concentration. Tomoyo giggled again, turned in her seat, and whacked him over the head.
"Two points for the visitors." Eriol said in a monotone voice. Both of the passengers burst into laughter.
~*~*~*~
"Tomoyo! Dear! How was your night?" Sonomi called, as Tomoyo let herself into her mother's apartment. Tomoyo grinned when she saw that Meiling, Naoko, Omata and Robert were there as well, all waiting for her to answer. Tomoyo sat casually on the couch and shrugged.
"It was fine. I had the most interesting conversation with Mrs. Totum. It was as if we had known each other since I was young! Quite strange, don't you think?" Tomoyo asked, egging her mother on. Sonomi's face fell.
"You...you didn't recognize her?" Sonomi asked. Tomoyo pretended to look confused.
"What on earth do you mean, mother?" She asked innocently, her eyes flickering over to the doorway, where two shadows hid just behind the corner. Her mother sighed.
"You *did* know her, dear. In fact, you were quite close to her charge, Eriol Hiiragizawa, who, I believe passed away soon after his operation." Sonomi's voice was sorrowful, and Tomoyo found it hard to keep a straight face. One of the shadows snorted silently, while the other elbowed his counterpart. Finally, they couldn't take it anymore, and Tomoyo burst into happy laughter. Everyone, especially Meiling and Naoko, looked at her as if she were crazy, but turned when someone else entered the room.
"Yeah, I knew him! His brains just exploded out of his head one day, and I was there to witness it. Pretty gruesome, if you ask me." The young man stated. Naoko gave a start.
"Mr. Burnside?" She gasped. Tyson looked at her in shock.
"Why, Miss Naoko! What a surprise! I..."
"Brains exploded out of his head, huh? Well then, I suppose he would be considered a genius now." A second young man came around the corner and everyone except Tomoyo and Tyson looked at him in bewilderment.
"All right. Who are you, and what do you want?" Meiling finally spat, getting her wits together. Eriol looked over at her in wide-eyed innocence.
"Oh, just a guy who's brains exploded out of his head one day, and Tyson was there to witness it. He was also there to pick it all up." Eriol said sarcastically. Tomoyo giggled and then turned to Meiling and Naoko, who were looking quite scandalized.
"Meiling, Naoko, doesn't he look familiar? I mean, he is a bit taller..." She trailed off. Meiling looked at her in annoyance.
"If I had recognized him, I wouldn't be standing here, asking him who he was, now would I?" Meiling snapped. Eriol just grinned.
"Really, Mei. Would you recognize me if I grunted and groaned, and sat limp in a chair. Perhaps you would prefer me like that?" Eriol asked, his blue eyes twinkling at her. Meiling gasped in half-shock, half-annoyance. How could he mock her old friend like that? How could he possibly know about Eriol?
"Just tell me your gosh-darn name!" She hissed. Eriol bowed.
"Oh, I think that you know it quite well, Meiling. Think really hard, back to yesteryear...perhaps your second year in school? Does that ring a bell?" He asked. Tomoyo sighed in anxiousness.
"Think Meiling, and you too, Naoko. Think really hard." She sighed. Meiling frowned in concentration, but Naoko was already pale, her mouth wide open. She tried to say something, but nothing came out of her mouth. Her pretty brown eyes were wide and her fists were clenched in disbelief. But it had to be true! How else would he know about that?!
"Eriol?...ERIOL!!!" Naoko breathed the first part, and then shrieked the last part as she threw herself into the young man's arms. Meiling's mouth fell open and she choked, then tears filled her eyes.
"Eriol? You're alive?" She whimpered, looking faint. Eriol smiled at her over Naoko's shoulder, and the black haired girl lost no time in launching herself at the man.
"ERIOL! YOU'RE ALIVE! YOU TALK! YOU'RE WALKING!" Meiling cried, burying her face in his shoulder and holding him close. Naoko had given up her post and stood by, watching with happy tears streaming down her cheeks. By now, Sonomi had realized what was going on, and she too, turned pale.
"Eriol? Little Hiiragizawa Eriol? Milly said nothing to me! I thought you were dead!" The older woman breathed. Eriol smiled and took her hand, kissing it.
"I missed you as well Daidouji-sama." He murmured.
"Could someone please tell me what is going on?" Robert asked in an offended voice. Both Tomoyo and Eriol turned sharply at his voice, and Eriol narrowed his eyes at the other man.
"Mr. Roderick, I'd like you to meet my old childhood friend, Eriol Hiiragizawa. Eriol, this is Mr. Roderick." Tomoyo said. Neither man moved to shake hands, and Eriol raised his eyebrow at Tomoyo.
"Touya will want to meet this one." He whispered to her. Unfortunately, Sonomi overheard and frowned at the man's rudeness; but it was quickly washed away when she heard the name, 'Touya'.
"Oh! Touya Kinomoto? Do you know him?" She asked eagerly. Eriol smiled and bowed.
"Madam, he is my cousin-in-law, and my co-worker." He said suavely. Sonomi gasped in delight and clasped her hands together.
"Well, we will certainly have to visit him, then! In fact, we will have to visit all of them!" Sonomi stated. Eriol smiled.
"That is a wonderful idea. Milly needs someone her own age around, and she would love to see you, not to mention my cousin, Nakuru. Why don't you all come to dinner. I will call and have cook prepare a special dinner." Eriol stated. Sonomi nodded in delight, and quickly led him over to the phone. Meiling was telling her husband about Eriol, and Naoko was talking eagerly to Tomoyo, her eyes sparkling happily. Tyson stood in the background, watching Naoko with a smile, until Tomoyo pulled him forward and made a more formal introduction between the two.
"I talked to Milly, and she is eager to see you all." Eriol came back into the room, smiling. Meiling gave a squeal.
"Oh, I can't wait to see her! It really has been too long!" The girl stated. Eriol was then introduced to Omata, and the two became fast friends. The whole group made it's way into the sitting room and they stayed there, chatting for the rest of the afternoon.
~*~*~*~
"Ah, there's the limo." Tyson called, as the group stood, waiting for the car. Eriol had offered to take Meiling, Omata and Naoko in his car, but Naoko had insisted on staying with Sonomi. Personally, Tomoyo knew that she had only stayed so she could chat more with Tyson, who had offered to escort Sonomi and Robert to the mansion. They all quickly climbed in, and then looked around the spacious interior.
"Well, he certainly spared no expense in renting a vehicle." Robert said snappily. Tyson turned and forced a smile.
"This isn't a rented limo, it's Mr. Hiiragizawa's. In fact, this is only one of the three he owns, not including his five cars and two motorcycles. Plus a bike or two." Tyson stated. Naoko gaped.
"He's really that wealthy?" She managed. Tyson laughed.
"He is one of England's most eligible bachelors. In fact, he would never tell you this, but he is also one of its most wealthy inhabitants. His cousin is no push-over either. She has quite a inheritance herself." Tyson said proudly. Robert sniffed.
"So how did you come to be his friend?" He asked stiffly. Tyson grinned.
"Well, first I met him in the hospital, and we became friends. Then we found out we were next-door neighbors as well, which just added to our comradeship." He said. Naoko looked a little upset when she heard this.
"So...I suppose you too, are very wealthy." She murmured, looking down at her hands. Tyson smiled.
"I'd hate to brag, but I can't say that I am not well off." He answered. Sonomi smiled at his humility, but Naoko turned her face towards the window. She had grown up in a rather poor family, so she had had no real encounters with wealth (besides Tomoyo) until she had become a writer. Even then, she had not considered herself wealthy, so she was quite unsure when she found out that this man was rich. What must he think of her? She had practically thrown herself at him on the plane, and he had been so kind about it...oh what a fool she was!
"Miss Naoko, are you all right?" Tyson asked, a worried frown on his face. Naoko forced a smile and nodded, but couldn't bring herself to say anything. They rode silently to the mansion, and as they drove around the curve, they saw Tomoyo, Meiling, Omata and Eriol waiting for them.
"Hello! We thought you'd never come!" Tomoyo teased, as they got out. Her mother smiled and hugged her, but then spotted the woman standing on the steps behind her.
"Milly!" Sonomi called, rushing to hug the other woman. Milly laughed but a loud wail cut her off.
"Seamus! I've forgotten about him!" Milly gasped. Tomoyo quickly bolted inside, unaware of the funny looks she was getting from family and friends. Eriol hurried up behind her, while Tyson stood looking anxiously up at the baby's bedroom window. There were a few minutes of silence, before Eriol came back down with Seamus in his arms and Tomoyo by his side, cooing at the baby.
"Eriol! Is that..." Meiling trailed off, gazing at the baby.
"Are you married?" Naoko filled in. At this, Tyson, Milly, Eriol and Tomoyo burst into laughter.
"This is my nephew...of sorts. He is the son of my cousin." Eriol explained, holding up the baby. Seamus looked around at all the new people and smiled.
"OH! He's a doll!" Naoko crooned, walking over and stroking the baby's cheek.
"He's *my* doll!" Came a deep voice from behind them. Everyone turned to see three people standing behind them.
"Touya?!" Sonomi gasped, as she caught sight of her nephew. He grinned at her and bowed.
"Aunt Sonomi, may I introduce you to my wife, Kinomoto Nakuru? And I see that you have already met our son, Seamus." Touya introduced. Sonomi looked astonished but willingly took Nakuru's hand when offered. Then Touya motioned for the third person to come forward.
"Everyone, this is Kaho. She works with Tyson, Eriol and I. I invited her over for dinner, so I hope you don't mind." He stated. The woman next to him had long red-brown hair and brown eyes that were big and mysterious. The woman's eyes fell on Eriol, and began to sparkle.
"It is a pleasure to meet you." She murmured. Tomoyo smiled and stepped forward.
"Eriol, you should have mentioned her to me! I would have visited her while I was at the office with you." She exclaimed, shaking the woman's hand. Kaho was not much older than herself, about twenty. When she heard Tomoyo's comment, though, she looked the girl over sharply.
"Tomoyo is my cousin, and an old friend of Eriol's." Touya explained as they all walked inside. Kaho's face relaxed and she smiled winningly at Eriol.
"Yes, Eriol! You should have told us about one another!" She agreed. Eriol looked over at her and smiled, which caused Kaho's cheeks to turn slightly pink. Meiling, who was walking behind them, frowned. For some reason, she didn't like this girl.
"Touya, Nakuru, may I talk with you, alone, for a moment?" She questioned. The two in question nodded and they quickly led her to the front sitting room.
~*~*~*~
"I don't like her." Meiling stated dryly, as Touya shut the door behind them. Nakuru nodded and Touya looked worried.
"I've never liked her much either. Not since she tried to get Touya into bed with her, after we were engaged." Nakuru hissed, her eyes flashing in anger. Touya looked at the floor.
"She didn't know we were engaged. I've tried giving her the benefit of the doubt, that is why I invited her over. But...Nakuru's right. Kaho definitely seems to have some sort of attraction to Eriol, as well." Touya commented.
"But wait! Why did she try to get you in bed?" Meiling asked. Touya winced.
"She was brand new in the company, and I was showing her the ropes. Apparently she got the wrong ideas about me and thought I was coming onto her." He was blushing as he said this, and Meiling fumed.
"So now she is after Eriol." She hissed. Nakuru snorted.
"I'd say she was after his bank account." She muttered. Touya looked at her, frowning, and Meiling growled. She was about to say more, but Tomoyo's voice cut in.
"Meiling? Touya, Nakuru? Supper's ready!" She called from the dinning room. The three looked at each other and silently agreed not to say another word in front of anyone else.
"Coming!" They yelled in unison, linking arms and walking out of the room. When they had been small, Meiling used to visit Sakura a lot. Since Sakura's father worked, Touya usually ended up watching them, and he had become a sort-of surrogate brother to her over the years.
"What did you talk about?" Tomoyo asked, as they entered the dinning room. Everyone else was seated, and Seamus was in his playpen nearby. The three simply shook their heads and sat down, saying nothing. Tomoyo, Omata and Naoko shot them all funny looks, but wisely decided not to say anything.
"Now, how have you been, Sonomi. We barely had any time to talk when you called." Milly reminded. Sonomi smiled.
"I am still the proud owner of Daidouji Toys, but I have cut my schedule down quite a bit, so I can spend more time with Tomoyo." Sonomi stated, looking affectionately at her daughter.
"Oh? And what do you do, Miss Daidouji?" Kaho asked politely. Tomoyo smiled at her.
"I am a business woman. I have my own fashion line, and I am here to promote it." She explained. Kaho nodded and turned to Meiling.
"And you?" She asked. Meiling forced back a growl and pasted a smile on her face.
"I am Tomoyo's manager/confidante, aka, anything else I need to be. And Naoko is our record keeper and also a company entrepreneur." Meiling explained. Kaho made a delicate 'o' with her mouth and nodded.
"That's very interesting. Eriol, isn't that wonderful?" Kaho asked, putting a hand on his sleeve. Eriol smiled at her and nodded.
"My old friends have certainly turned out to be outstanding people. Sometimes I wonder where the time went, though." He joked. Tomoyo wrinkled her nose.
"Into your pocketbook?" She teased back. Eriol's eyes flashed with suppressed mirth.
"Or into yours, Tomoyo-dearest." He chuckled. Tomoyo grinned.
"But you are right. We have missed so much, loosing contact like this. I feel like I was deprived." She murmured, smiling at the gathered group. Eriol smiled and patted her arm.
"On the contrary, Tomoyo, it was *us* who was deprived of your presence." He stated, his eyes still mischievous. Tomoyo's mouth worked, as she suppressed a laugh. Everyone was watching them, and no one noticed that Kaho's face was becoming a thundercloud and her eyes were darkening. Under the table, she clenched her fist around the cloth napkin and her nails bit into the fabric.
~*~*~*~
"Oh, but won't you stay? We have plenty of room!" Milly pleaded, as Sonomi, Meiling, Omata and Naoko went to take their leave later that evening. Tyson had offered to drive Kaho to her home, and they had left only minutes before.
"We would love to, but our things are in the hotel." Sonomi said haltingly as she looked at Robert's stony face. Tomoyo saw this as well, and immediately raised up complaint.
"But mother, you can bring your things back here, and check out tonight! I'm sure that we can arrange that, and I know that Meiling and Naoko don't want to go since Eriol has now been discovered." Tomoyo looked at her mother through wide, pleading eyes that were impossible to resist.
"All right! We'll stay!" Sonomi finally sighed. The girls gave a cheer and even Omata seemed to perk up. Robert, however, was a different story.
"I believe that it would be best if I stay in the hotel. My business partners are expecting me to be there if anything turns up, and I cannot let them down." He stated. It was no surprise when no one tried to dissuade him from this.
"I'll drive you over." Touya suggested as he left to bring the car around. Tomoyo decided to stay and help put Seamus to bed, while Eriol told them he had some business to take care of.
"Did you like her?" Nakuru asked, as she dressed Seamus in his sleeper. Tomoyo, who was rattling a toy above the baby, frowned.
"What do you mean?" She questioned. Nakuru sighed.
"Kaho. What do you think of her?" She asked. Tomoyo looked down.
"I am sure she is very nice...but she seemed awfully quiet during dinner. And she seemed to clench her teeth a lot. Perhaps she has a problem with that? I know that Chiharu used to, and she almost had to get a retainer..."
"I don't think habit had anything to do with it, Tomoyo. I don't like her, period. She may seem nice, but there is just something about her." Nakuru slammed the baby-powder onto the changing table and a puff of the stuff rose into her face, causing her to cough. Tomoyo laughed and picked up the baby.
"Well, she was nice to me. I will keep an eye on her, though." Tomoyo assured her, as she sat in a rocking chair and rocked the baby. Nakuru sat in the chair across from her and watched them thoughtfully.
"You are very good with children, Tomoyo. You look so at-home with a baby in your arms." Nakuru stated. Tomoyo blushed.
"I am young Nakuru. Don't you go trying to push me into a relationship like my mother does. I have enough trouble trying to keep away from all the men she shoves at me." Tomoyo sighed. There was a chuckle from outside the door.
"Let me take a guess at how many places you have found to hide from them." Came Eriol's voice, as the man himself entered the room. Tomoyo grinned.
"Oh, I just run over to Meiling's or Naoko's or Chiharu's. They always cover for me." She laughed. He grinned and sat down on the floor near them, placing a very sleepy-looking Spinel in his lap.
"What about you? You must have been quite a heartbreaker as well." Tomoyo giggled. Eriol's face became serious.
"I suppose." He muttered. Nakuru sighed.
"One of the first girls who hit on him was the very same girl who had teased him just before he left for Japan. Ever since then, he has practically outlawed women's presence around him. Milly, myself, and Kaho are about the only ones he really seems to like." Nakuru spit out Kaho's name, but Eriol smiled when she listed it. Tomoyo saw this and worry filled her heart. Did her dear old friend like...or even love Kaho?
"You mean until we came." Tomoyo added, trying to keep her voice from wavering. Eriol smiled at her and nodded.
"I don't mind any of my old friends, who knew me even before the operation! Heck, you know me better than Milly!" He laughed. Tomoyo's fears were forgotten at these words, and she laughed joyfully. Nakuru grinned and gently lifted the sleeping Seamus from her arms and into his crib. Then they silently walked out of the room and shut the door. Nakuru wandered off down the hall, and Tomoyo wandered down the stairs and into the sitting room. She sat down on a couch to read, but before she could so much as open the book, a hand gently rested on her shoulder. She looked back to see Eriol's deep, mysterious eyes boring into hers.
"I'm glad you're back, Tomoyo." He murmured. She smiled.
"I missed you, Eriol. More than you will ever know." She whispered, pulling him into a hug as tears filled her eyes. His arms surrounded her and she let her tears fall. He sat down on the couch, and held her close, letting her cry. They had been so busy yesterday, this was the first real time that they had had, alone.
Gently, he stroked her hair, listening to her tell him of her life while he was away. He listened, his eyes shining at the thought of his old friend, growing up like she described. After a while, they had both exhausted themselves and they fell asleep in each others arms.
Just like two friends healing from years of wounds of the heart.
~*~*~*~
