Disclaimer: CCS does not belong to me.
Chapter Rated: PG-13 for poor use of characters' language.
Ne dites pas Que Vous M'aimez
(Don't Say You Love Me)
Chapter Six: Ray of Hope
By: Me
A Week Later
Walking stiffly down the aisle in her black business suit, her heels clicked in rhythm with each step she took. Her head was held up in its usual confident way and she greeted everyone with a false smile. Ever since she was little she had that image of confidence, but ever since she met Aleron, she wondered when she'd come crashing down. Straightening her shoulders and taking in a deep breath, she racked her knuckles on the door.
"Come in," a male voice called from in side.
She opened the door and stepped into the office, only to be met by the intent gaze of Laer's golden-yellow orbs staring at her from his seat in front of his desk. She stared back at him steadily as she closed the door behind her and stood stiffly in the center of the room. "Bonjour, Monsieur Laer. You wanted to see me?"
"Yes," he replied, gesturing towards the two cushioned seats. "Please, sit."
With a business manner look plastered on her face, she took a seat on one of the chairs and gazed calmly at Laer. "What did you need to talk to me about?"
"I can't help but notice...Coretta that you seem to be avoiding me lately," he commented as he leaned back in his chair, making it tilt back. He quirked an eye brow at her. "You don't mind me asking why is that?"
Tomoyo avoided looking into his eyes by turning her gaze away and staring at a painting of a landscape that she suddenly found quite interesting. Then, looking at him she spoke firmly, "I have my reasons."
He ignored her reply. Laer furrowed his eye brows and stared at her in a serious, yet emotionless way. "Tell me...Coretta...what's your REAL name? What are you hiding from everyone that you don't want anyone to know?" She glanced down at her hand, not being able to handle Laer's intense gaze as he pushed on with questions. "Who are you really? Why was that guy after you? Why -"
"I get the picture, Laer!" Tomoyo snapped angrily, lifting her head up and meeting his gaze. "What do you want from me!?"
"I just want to know what the hell is going on!" he snapped in return, sharply standing up and slamming his hands on the desk.
She stood up. All of her patience and whatever calmness she had abandoned her as she shouted with a glare. "Do you really want to know, Laer!? Well, my real name is Tomoyo Daidouji. I ran away from Tomoeda five years ago to get away from Aleron." She saw the look he gave her. "Yes, the same Aleron Thorn that owns the world's biggest companies. Anyway, he WAS my ex-fiancé and now, he's after me and he'll do anything to get me. Are you satisfied now that you know who I am and what I'm doing here?"
He didn't reply. He just stared at her as the information she gave him registered gradually in his brain. Then, he gave her one of those 'are you sure' looks. "Are you sure that we're talking about the same Aleron Thorn?"
She was more outraged than before. "What? Do you think that I'm delirious or something!? YES I MEAN HIM!" His frown deepen and Tomoyo took that as a sign he didn't trust her words. Glaring daggers at him, she stomped angrily towards the door. "ARGH! I KNEW YOU WOULDN'T BELEIVE ME!"
"Cor-" Laer began, reaching a hand out towards her.
She turned around sharply, her amethyst eyes flashing dangerously. "Don't call me that! As of now... Coretta Consier no longer exists!"
"Wai-" he started, but stopped when she left his office, slamming the door harshly behind her in the process. Slumping onto his chair, he rubbed his temples and heaved a weary sigh.
Tomoyo stormed angrily out of the building. She entered her black mustang and closed the door before clutching on the wheel and leaning her forehead against it. Tears glistened in her eyes but this time, she didn't hold them back. She allowed them to fall freely down her pale cheeks and onto the fabric of her skirt. Even though she looked calm and confident on the outside, day by day she was crumbling to pieces in the in side. She was completely breaking and falling down...without anyone to catch her. Choking on her tears, she sobbed and cried freely and pitifully. Ever since she found out Aleron knew her whereabouts in Paris, all she felt was pressure...insecurity...frightened...scared. All she wanted to do was return back to her hometown; to return back to Tomoeda where her mother was and where she felt most at home.
"Oh Okaa-san..." she murmured between sobs. She half opened her eyes to reveal shimmering amethyst orbs. "I miss you so much."
Meanwhile
She stared teary eyed at the five year old letter. The once neat white sheet was now crumbled with wrinkles everywhere. The writing itself was faded but it was still clear to decipher. Ever since she found this letter perched on her dresser by her bed, she's read it every single day with thoughts of regret and guilt. She blamed it on herself that her daughter left home. She blamed herself. Her eyes scanned through the letter once again, already have remembered every single word written in it.
Dearsest Okaa-san -
I just thought I'd let you know that when you wake up in the morning, I will no longer be here. I know that no matter how hard I try to pursuade you...you'll never believe me when I say that Aleron continually abuses me whenever he gets the chance. If only you knew... I know you only want what's best for me by marrying a wealthy man, but I cannot marry someone that harrasses me and that I don't even love. Onegai, Okaa-san, understand that it's not your fault that I'm running away. I'm just running away from Aleron. No longer do I feel safe around him and with him being in Tomoeda, I can't feel safe in my own home. I will no longer be in Japan. I'm moving to a different state with a different identity so that no one will be able to find me. And please don't send any police out to find me. I just want to be in peace. Maybe one day we'll see each other again, Okaa-san. Until then, I just want you to know that I love you and will miss you terribly.
-Your Daughter,
Tomoyo
Droplets of tears streaked down her cheeks and stained the already ruined letter. She wiped her tears away hastily and quickly, trying to stop them from coming. "Oh Tomoyo..." she whispered mournfully. "I really hope we're reunited soon..."
"Daidouji-san."
Wiping away extra tears, Sonomi lifted her head up to see her chauffeur. "Hai?"
"Everything is ready for your departure," he replied curtly.
She nodded her head in acknowledgement as she folded away the letter and tucked it in the pocket of her jacket. "Alright then...I guess we should get going?"
He gave her a reassuring grin. "Don't worry Daidouji-san. I have a feeling that she'll be there."
She forced a watery smile. "I hope you're right."
Paris, France
Straightening her suit and pulling herself together, she knocked loudly and clearly on the door. A muffled "coming" could be heard from the inside before the sound of someone unlocking the door and opening it reached her ears. She lifted her head up to meet a pair of sapphire eyes. He didn't seem the least bit surprised to see her on his door step. She's been waiting for quite awhile to have a chance to talk to him, but insince he was in the hospital for a few days and she had work, they never had a moment to themselves to clear up a few things.
"Come in, Tomoyo," Eriol invited, taking a step to the side.
She came in and removed her coat and shoes as he led her to the couches. They took a seat on opposite sides so they faced each other. A deafening and awkward silence passed between them before Tomoyo broke it. "How's your arm?"
He touched the arm he was shot at. "It's getting better."
"That's good," she commented with a sigh.
More silence.
"I know you have some questions..." Eriol stated calmly.
"Do I really need to say them?" She quirked a quizzical brow at him.
Eriol heaved a sigh before he fell into an explanation to clear up Tomoyo's questions. "As you know, I'm a CIA agent for England. I trained with the CIA for a few years. With school and training...that's really the reason why I could never come back to Japan. When I did go back to find out that you were gone, I returned to England and tracked you down. I found out you went under the name "Coretta Consier" and that you moved to Paris...I wanted to come here immediately and then when I was assigned on a secret mission to gather information on Aleron so we can send that bastard to jail for good, I saw this as a perfect opportunity to find you and do my work at the same time.
When the agency informed me that 'Tomoyo Daidouji' was once an accquaintance of Aleron Thorn, I decided to find out for myself exactly what you two had going on so that maybe I'd be able to dig up some dirt on him. When you told me all that I needed to know, this would've all been over. But... no one would believe that the owner of one of the biggest companies would do things that you claim him to. So I decided to watch him...follow him..See what he's up to and gather information. After weeks of I guess you can say... 'stalking' him... I got all the proof I need..." He glanced at Tomoyo. "And maybe with your help and cooperation...Aleron will be put into jail for the rest of his damn life."
Tomoyo stared blankly down at her carpet as her mind processed the information Eriol just told her. She silently forgave him for lying to her and for making her wait. All thoughts of ever being angry with Eriol was washed from her mind and an instant wave of guilt took over. She bit her bottom lip, wondering what kind of pain she must've put him through. She scolded herself and mentally kicked herself but she knew she deserved more than that. She should've known better than to mistrust Eriol Hirrigazawa. He always kept his words and even over the years she should've known that he'd keep his promise to return to her. 'I'm such a baka...'
"So? Will you help us put him in jail?" Eriol questioned, removing Tomoyo from her thoughts. She saw his pleading and hopeful look. "What do you say?"
She didn't reply at first, but then a look of determination gleamed in her eyes. "Yes, I'll help. I really wish to see that bastard put in jail where he belongs. And maybe when that does happen..." A longing look was on her face, "I'll be able to return home and everything will be normal again..."
Eriol's look softened upon seeing the longing look she had to return back to Tomoeda where her mother was. It's been what, five years? since she last seen Sonomi. He couldn't imagine the pain she must be going through from being torn apart from her for so long. He placed a hand on her shoulder and gave it a reassuring squeeze. She lifted her head up to meet his comforting sapphire orbs, and he was surprised to see tears glistening in her eyes. "Don't worry, Tomoyo. The sooner we bring Aleron to jail, the sooner you'll be able to go back to Japan. Now dry up your tears for me. I'll need you to be strong 'till then."
Tomoyo flashed him a watery smile as she dried her tears. He gave her confidence and she knew that as long as she had him to lean on, she'd be fine and in no time at all...all of this...all of her troubles and worries...will be over. But a sudden thought struck her mind. When it all is over, where would Eriol go? Would he go back to England? Would she ever see him again after all of this? That thought made her feel sad, but she decided to worry about that later. She nodded her head as a new light of hope glinted in her amethyst orbs. "Alright. But first... Just out of curiosity... What's Aleron framed for?"
"Do you really want to know?" Eriol asked doubtfully. She remained silent before nodding her head. He sighed. "He's framed for homicide, illegal drug dealing, sexual harrassment, child abuse, theivery, threatening the jury whenever he was in court, illegal weapon dealing... You name it. The only reason why he was never in jail in the first place because we never had the one thing that would put him away, we never had any proof."
Tomoyo nodded her head once more, her face looking slightly more pale. She couldn't believe that she went out with Aleron a few years in her past life...and yet she had no idea what he's been doing. She felt ashamed and disgusted of herself for ever allowing herself to fall for such a... for such a menace. "I-I see..." Taking in a deep breath, she closed her eyes then re-opened them and fixed Eriol with a steady look. "What do we have to do?"
"First..." he began as he sorted through his mind and organized his thoughts, "I'm going to have to show all of the evidence I gathered to my boss...and then... Me, you, and my boss are going to have to argue our case in court."
"Is... Aleron going to be there?" Tomoyo questioned. She prayed he wouldn't because she couldn't stand being in the same building as him.
Eriol shook his head. "No. We're just going to go to the judge unannounced and argue our case, show him the evidence... and with his consent... Aleron will be locked up in no time."
A smile fluttered across her glowing face at the prospect of him being out of her life for good. She was eager to get it all over with and return back to her old life where she didn't have to make a fake I.D. and live in fear of being discovered by the one man she feared the most. And she had Eriol to thank for the bright light of hope for a new future that seemed to shine on her. Never had she felt more happier and content in her life. Never. She was less tense but more restless than ever to get this all over. Her gratitude she felt towards him was evident on her face and eyes as she spoke sincerely to him, "Arigatou, Eriol."
"For what?" he asked as he blinked in confusion.
'For being my confidence and my ray of hope,' she thought secretly to herself, but the words that flowed from her mouth were different, "I thank you because now that you're here, Aleron may actually be outta my life for good."
A tender smile fluttered across his face. "I'm just glad I could be of assistance to a friend."
'A friend...' She thought to herself sadly. 'I guess that's all we'll ever be from now on...' She wanted to kick and kill herself then and there. 'It's all your fault anyway Tomoyo for pushing him away when you knew very well that you still loved him!'
She sighed. "I better be going now..." Tomoyo trailed off as she stood up and made her way to the door, Eriol following after her. "So when will we be seeing the judge?"
He opened the door for her. "In two days. I still have to show my boss the evidence. Are you sure you don't want me to escort you home?"
"I'll be fine on my own. If I don't need any FBI Agent watching me, then that means I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself," Tomoyo replied confidently. The Paris Police offered Tomoyo some protection when she was interviewed last week after the incident at the restaurant, but she refused saying that it wasn't necessary. But what Tomoyo didn't know was that she was watched nearly 24/7. Two secret under cover cops were keeping watch of her, making sure no harm came to her what-so-ever.
"You sure?" he asked looking doubtful.
"I'm positive." She flashed him a reassuring grin before giving him a slight wave and walking down the pavement and towards her car. "Ja ne, Eriol-kun."
"Yeah... Ja ne," he murmured, watching her climb into her mustang. But for some unknown reason, he was feeling uneasy as he watched her drive away. A black car followed in pursuit of her's and he knew that was the car of the two under cover cops who were assigned to keep watch of her safety. He was starting to worry about Tomoyo's safety, but reminded himself that she had protection close by if need be. But still...would two cops be enough? Eriol entered his apartment and closed the door behind him. He knew something was going to go wrong... and his instincts were never incorrect. He just wished this one time that his instincts were incorrect and that he was being paranoid for no reason at all.
Later On That Night
The black FBI car pulled to a stop in front of Tomoyo's house just as she entered it and shut the door securely behind her. Lights illuminated through the curtains, showing that someone was indeed in the peaceful looking house. The man in the passanger's seat stared at the two story building before leaning his seat back and resting his arms behind his head as he yawned widely.
"Another long night to look forward to," he commented to his blonde haired companion.
He peered at the red head with pale blue eyes. "You can say that again."
"You got anythin' to eat, Al'?" the red head asked hopefully.
Allen sighed and shook his head. "Nah." He then narrowed his blue eyes into a glare. "If you didn't forget, Kyle, you finished all of our food thirty minutes ago!"
Kyle looked up at Allen with innocent teal eyes. "I was hungry!"
He snorted and rolled his eyes. "Yeah... So was I. Next time I bring food, I ain't givin' you none, you hear? Kyle? A-"
"Look!" Kyle exclaimed in a whisper.
Hearing the urgency in his voice, Allen peered through the tinted windows to see figures dressed in black run stealthily up to Tomoyo's lawn and surround her house. There had to be at least eight of them and one of them jogged up to the door and looked to be doing something to the knob. Kyle and Allen glanced at each other.
"It seems as if we'll be gettin' some action tonight," Kyle remarked, equiping himself with some guns and bullets.
"Yeah," Allen agreed before picking up his walkie talkie. "This is 0094 requesting back up immediately."
"10-4," a voice replied in the speaker.
Placing the walkie talkie back in the charger, they waited until the eight people unlocked the front door and filed inside before quietly leaving their car and running across the deserted street, their guns at the ready.
__________
Tomoyo dried her hair off, having just finished taking a shower. She wore some loose white sweats and a navy blue t-shirt. She combed her wet raven locks as she took a seat on the bed mattress. Setting the comb on her dresser, she looked at a group picture that her and a bunch of childhood friends took years and years ago. A smile fluttered across her face, happy memories running through her mind as she saw how happy they all looked. It was a picture of her, Sakura, Syaoran, Chiharu, Takashi, Naoko, Rika, and Eriol at a picnic. Syaoran and Sakura had their usual blush just being in the other's presence... Takashi had an arm around the smiling Chiharu's shoulder... Naoko and Rika were waving to the camera... she herself was grinning her usual sweet grin... and Eriol... he was smiling his usual charming smile. How happy and carefree they all looked; no worries troubling their thoughts. A shaky sigh escaped Tomoyo's lips. What she wouldn't give to go back to the good ol' days...
She was brought back to reality when the sound of her bed room door being kicked open reached her ears. Her amethyst orbs widen in shock and fear when seeing eight black dressed men file into her room, each one of them holding a gun. She crawled across her bed and off as she back towards the wall, trying to keep whatever distance she could between herself and them.
"There she is," one pointed out. All eight looked at her.
"C'mere girl!" another snarled as he advanced towards Tomoyo.
"No! Get away from me!" Tomoyo shrieked, slapping his hand away. She glared at them. "Get out of my house!"
He growled in annoyance. "Sorry, but no can do. Aleron gave us specific orders to-"
"I don't give a fuck what Aleron wants!" she shouted angrily. "Tell that damn bastard he can just go to hell!"
"You can tell him that yourself!" he snapped, grabbing ahold of Tomoyo's forearm.
She began to struggle to release herself from his grasp. "LET GO OF ME!"
The man ignored her as he began to drag her by force. She took desperate actions and bit his arm, making him cry out in pain and release her. Running with all her speed, she slipped through two men who tried to grab her but failed. Descending down the stairs, she jumped off from the fourth step and dashed out of her house, only to find a hand clamp over her mouth and hold her across the waist as whoever it was pulled her behind the bush. Her shrieks and screams were muffled as she struggled and kicked.
"Shh!" a male voice hissed, beckoning her to be quiet.
The eight men exited the house and stared around, trying to find some kind of sign of Tomoyo. She didn't listen to the man's plea for her to be quiet because the next thing Allen knew, she bit the palm of his hand. He bit down really hard on his bottom lip to stop himself from crying. He released his hold on her, and she turned around and fell on her rear end as she glared at Allen, who was nursing his hand, and at Kyle who was stifling his laughter.
"Shut up, Kyle!" Allen growled lowly.
"Who are you guys...?" Tomoyo asked cautiously.
"I'm Kyle, he's Allen," Kyle replied in a whisper as he flashed her his FBI badge. "We're both FBI agents that were assigned to protect you, Mademoiselle Daidouji. But enough of this chit-chat, right now, we gotta get you outta here."
Before they could make any further movements, someone peered at them from over the bush. "OVER HERE! THE DAIDOUJI GIRL IS HERE!"
"Shit!" Allen cursed, hauling Tomoyo up onto her feet. "Start running! We'll hold them back until backup comes!"
A gun shot filled the air and the man that sounded the alarm fell dead to the ground by the bullet that flew from Kyle's gun. A trail of smoke trailed out from the bullet whole and all attention was turned towards their direction. Tomoyo had a fearful look plastered on her pale face.
"Why are you standing there for? I thought I told you to run!" Allen growled, punching one of the seven men who ran at them.
"But -"
"Go!" Kyle urged.
"Be careful..." Tomoyo whispered, turning around and starting to run just as another gun shot filled the still air. She glanced over her shoulder to see red liquid staining the sleeve of Allen's jacket. Avoiding looking behind her, she tightly shut her eyes and tried to block off the sound of more guns being fired repeatedly.
She continued running as far and fast as her legs would allow her to. Ten minutes passed by when all sounds ceased and she slowed her jog to a stop. Resting her hands on her knees, she panted heavily. Once she regained her composure and her breathing, she chanced a glance over her shoulder to see that the street behind her was completely lifeless and empty. Deciding the most safest place would be with Eriol, she started to walk towards his apartment. Shivers ran up and down her spine and she would look over her shoulder and towards shadows whenever she heard something. She came up with the solution that she was paranoid and mentally kicked herself for being so jumpy. She rounded a corner, and the next thing she knew, someone pulled her against him as a cloth covered her nose and mouth. The sent of alcohol filled her nostrils and went into her brain, jumbling her thoughts and making her world spin. Oxygen failed to go to her lungs and darkness started to cover her vision before she fell unconscious.
To Be Continued...
Azure Rosas: ^^; Heh... I updated! Surprise, surprise! I'm sooo very sorry for putting this fic on hold for a super long while! ._. And I'm sorry for the 'cliffhanger' I left at the end of this chap. -_-' I know that's not what ya'll were expecting after waiting so patiently and for so long, but it was the best I can do considering that right now I have a head ache. *sighs* Anyway, please do not flame me and go all crazy on me for not updating for months and for ending the ch. the way I did. I'll try to update as soon as I can, no guarantees. I'm planning on making this fic at least 10 chapters long. It may be less than 10 chapters, or more, you can never tell especially when I'm the author of the fic. ^^; *wavez* Ja! And arigatou to those that reviewed and I thank everyone for their support!
Chapter Rated: PG-13 for poor use of characters' language.
(Don't Say You Love Me)
Chapter Six: Ray of Hope
By: Me
A Week Later
Walking stiffly down the aisle in her black business suit, her heels clicked in rhythm with each step she took. Her head was held up in its usual confident way and she greeted everyone with a false smile. Ever since she was little she had that image of confidence, but ever since she met Aleron, she wondered when she'd come crashing down. Straightening her shoulders and taking in a deep breath, she racked her knuckles on the door.
"Come in," a male voice called from in side.
She opened the door and stepped into the office, only to be met by the intent gaze of Laer's golden-yellow orbs staring at her from his seat in front of his desk. She stared back at him steadily as she closed the door behind her and stood stiffly in the center of the room. "Bonjour, Monsieur Laer. You wanted to see me?"
"Yes," he replied, gesturing towards the two cushioned seats. "Please, sit."
With a business manner look plastered on her face, she took a seat on one of the chairs and gazed calmly at Laer. "What did you need to talk to me about?"
"I can't help but notice...Coretta that you seem to be avoiding me lately," he commented as he leaned back in his chair, making it tilt back. He quirked an eye brow at her. "You don't mind me asking why is that?"
Tomoyo avoided looking into his eyes by turning her gaze away and staring at a painting of a landscape that she suddenly found quite interesting. Then, looking at him she spoke firmly, "I have my reasons."
He ignored her reply. Laer furrowed his eye brows and stared at her in a serious, yet emotionless way. "Tell me...Coretta...what's your REAL name? What are you hiding from everyone that you don't want anyone to know?" She glanced down at her hand, not being able to handle Laer's intense gaze as he pushed on with questions. "Who are you really? Why was that guy after you? Why -"
"I get the picture, Laer!" Tomoyo snapped angrily, lifting her head up and meeting his gaze. "What do you want from me!?"
"I just want to know what the hell is going on!" he snapped in return, sharply standing up and slamming his hands on the desk.
She stood up. All of her patience and whatever calmness she had abandoned her as she shouted with a glare. "Do you really want to know, Laer!? Well, my real name is Tomoyo Daidouji. I ran away from Tomoeda five years ago to get away from Aleron." She saw the look he gave her. "Yes, the same Aleron Thorn that owns the world's biggest companies. Anyway, he WAS my ex-fiancé and now, he's after me and he'll do anything to get me. Are you satisfied now that you know who I am and what I'm doing here?"
He didn't reply. He just stared at her as the information she gave him registered gradually in his brain. Then, he gave her one of those 'are you sure' looks. "Are you sure that we're talking about the same Aleron Thorn?"
She was more outraged than before. "What? Do you think that I'm delirious or something!? YES I MEAN HIM!" His frown deepen and Tomoyo took that as a sign he didn't trust her words. Glaring daggers at him, she stomped angrily towards the door. "ARGH! I KNEW YOU WOULDN'T BELEIVE ME!"
"Cor-" Laer began, reaching a hand out towards her.
She turned around sharply, her amethyst eyes flashing dangerously. "Don't call me that! As of now... Coretta Consier no longer exists!"
"Wai-" he started, but stopped when she left his office, slamming the door harshly behind her in the process. Slumping onto his chair, he rubbed his temples and heaved a weary sigh.
Tomoyo stormed angrily out of the building. She entered her black mustang and closed the door before clutching on the wheel and leaning her forehead against it. Tears glistened in her eyes but this time, she didn't hold them back. She allowed them to fall freely down her pale cheeks and onto the fabric of her skirt. Even though she looked calm and confident on the outside, day by day she was crumbling to pieces in the in side. She was completely breaking and falling down...without anyone to catch her. Choking on her tears, she sobbed and cried freely and pitifully. Ever since she found out Aleron knew her whereabouts in Paris, all she felt was pressure...insecurity...frightened...scared. All she wanted to do was return back to her hometown; to return back to Tomoeda where her mother was and where she felt most at home.
"Oh Okaa-san..." she murmured between sobs. She half opened her eyes to reveal shimmering amethyst orbs. "I miss you so much."
Meanwhile
She stared teary eyed at the five year old letter. The once neat white sheet was now crumbled with wrinkles everywhere. The writing itself was faded but it was still clear to decipher. Ever since she found this letter perched on her dresser by her bed, she's read it every single day with thoughts of regret and guilt. She blamed it on herself that her daughter left home. She blamed herself. Her eyes scanned through the letter once again, already have remembered every single word written in it.
Dearsest Okaa-san -
I just thought I'd let you know that when you wake up in the morning, I will no longer be here. I know that no matter how hard I try to pursuade you...you'll never believe me when I say that Aleron continually abuses me whenever he gets the chance. If only you knew... I know you only want what's best for me by marrying a wealthy man, but I cannot marry someone that harrasses me and that I don't even love. Onegai, Okaa-san, understand that it's not your fault that I'm running away. I'm just running away from Aleron. No longer do I feel safe around him and with him being in Tomoeda, I can't feel safe in my own home. I will no longer be in Japan. I'm moving to a different state with a different identity so that no one will be able to find me. And please don't send any police out to find me. I just want to be in peace. Maybe one day we'll see each other again, Okaa-san. Until then, I just want you to know that I love you and will miss you terribly.
Tomoyo
Droplets of tears streaked down her cheeks and stained the already ruined letter. She wiped her tears away hastily and quickly, trying to stop them from coming. "Oh Tomoyo..." she whispered mournfully. "I really hope we're reunited soon..."
"Daidouji-san."
Wiping away extra tears, Sonomi lifted her head up to see her chauffeur. "Hai?"
"Everything is ready for your departure," he replied curtly.
She nodded her head in acknowledgement as she folded away the letter and tucked it in the pocket of her jacket. "Alright then...I guess we should get going?"
He gave her a reassuring grin. "Don't worry Daidouji-san. I have a feeling that she'll be there."
She forced a watery smile. "I hope you're right."
Paris, France
Straightening her suit and pulling herself together, she knocked loudly and clearly on the door. A muffled "coming" could be heard from the inside before the sound of someone unlocking the door and opening it reached her ears. She lifted her head up to meet a pair of sapphire eyes. He didn't seem the least bit surprised to see her on his door step. She's been waiting for quite awhile to have a chance to talk to him, but insince he was in the hospital for a few days and she had work, they never had a moment to themselves to clear up a few things.
"Come in, Tomoyo," Eriol invited, taking a step to the side.
She came in and removed her coat and shoes as he led her to the couches. They took a seat on opposite sides so they faced each other. A deafening and awkward silence passed between them before Tomoyo broke it. "How's your arm?"
He touched the arm he was shot at. "It's getting better."
"That's good," she commented with a sigh.
More silence.
"I know you have some questions..." Eriol stated calmly.
"Do I really need to say them?" She quirked a quizzical brow at him.
Eriol heaved a sigh before he fell into an explanation to clear up Tomoyo's questions. "As you know, I'm a CIA agent for England. I trained with the CIA for a few years. With school and training...that's really the reason why I could never come back to Japan. When I did go back to find out that you were gone, I returned to England and tracked you down. I found out you went under the name "Coretta Consier" and that you moved to Paris...I wanted to come here immediately and then when I was assigned on a secret mission to gather information on Aleron so we can send that bastard to jail for good, I saw this as a perfect opportunity to find you and do my work at the same time.
When the agency informed me that 'Tomoyo Daidouji' was once an accquaintance of Aleron Thorn, I decided to find out for myself exactly what you two had going on so that maybe I'd be able to dig up some dirt on him. When you told me all that I needed to know, this would've all been over. But... no one would believe that the owner of one of the biggest companies would do things that you claim him to. So I decided to watch him...follow him..See what he's up to and gather information. After weeks of I guess you can say... 'stalking' him... I got all the proof I need..." He glanced at Tomoyo. "And maybe with your help and cooperation...Aleron will be put into jail for the rest of his damn life."
Tomoyo stared blankly down at her carpet as her mind processed the information Eriol just told her. She silently forgave him for lying to her and for making her wait. All thoughts of ever being angry with Eriol was washed from her mind and an instant wave of guilt took over. She bit her bottom lip, wondering what kind of pain she must've put him through. She scolded herself and mentally kicked herself but she knew she deserved more than that. She should've known better than to mistrust Eriol Hirrigazawa. He always kept his words and even over the years she should've known that he'd keep his promise to return to her. 'I'm such a baka...'
"So? Will you help us put him in jail?" Eriol questioned, removing Tomoyo from her thoughts. She saw his pleading and hopeful look. "What do you say?"
She didn't reply at first, but then a look of determination gleamed in her eyes. "Yes, I'll help. I really wish to see that bastard put in jail where he belongs. And maybe when that does happen..." A longing look was on her face, "I'll be able to return home and everything will be normal again..."
Eriol's look softened upon seeing the longing look she had to return back to Tomoeda where her mother was. It's been what, five years? since she last seen Sonomi. He couldn't imagine the pain she must be going through from being torn apart from her for so long. He placed a hand on her shoulder and gave it a reassuring squeeze. She lifted her head up to meet his comforting sapphire orbs, and he was surprised to see tears glistening in her eyes. "Don't worry, Tomoyo. The sooner we bring Aleron to jail, the sooner you'll be able to go back to Japan. Now dry up your tears for me. I'll need you to be strong 'till then."
Tomoyo flashed him a watery smile as she dried her tears. He gave her confidence and she knew that as long as she had him to lean on, she'd be fine and in no time at all...all of this...all of her troubles and worries...will be over. But a sudden thought struck her mind. When it all is over, where would Eriol go? Would he go back to England? Would she ever see him again after all of this? That thought made her feel sad, but she decided to worry about that later. She nodded her head as a new light of hope glinted in her amethyst orbs. "Alright. But first... Just out of curiosity... What's Aleron framed for?"
"Do you really want to know?" Eriol asked doubtfully. She remained silent before nodding her head. He sighed. "He's framed for homicide, illegal drug dealing, sexual harrassment, child abuse, theivery, threatening the jury whenever he was in court, illegal weapon dealing... You name it. The only reason why he was never in jail in the first place because we never had the one thing that would put him away, we never had any proof."
Tomoyo nodded her head once more, her face looking slightly more pale. She couldn't believe that she went out with Aleron a few years in her past life...and yet she had no idea what he's been doing. She felt ashamed and disgusted of herself for ever allowing herself to fall for such a... for such a menace. "I-I see..." Taking in a deep breath, she closed her eyes then re-opened them and fixed Eriol with a steady look. "What do we have to do?"
"First..." he began as he sorted through his mind and organized his thoughts, "I'm going to have to show all of the evidence I gathered to my boss...and then... Me, you, and my boss are going to have to argue our case in court."
"Is... Aleron going to be there?" Tomoyo questioned. She prayed he wouldn't because she couldn't stand being in the same building as him.
Eriol shook his head. "No. We're just going to go to the judge unannounced and argue our case, show him the evidence... and with his consent... Aleron will be locked up in no time."
A smile fluttered across her glowing face at the prospect of him being out of her life for good. She was eager to get it all over with and return back to her old life where she didn't have to make a fake I.D. and live in fear of being discovered by the one man she feared the most. And she had Eriol to thank for the bright light of hope for a new future that seemed to shine on her. Never had she felt more happier and content in her life. Never. She was less tense but more restless than ever to get this all over. Her gratitude she felt towards him was evident on her face and eyes as she spoke sincerely to him, "Arigatou, Eriol."
"For what?" he asked as he blinked in confusion.
'For being my confidence and my ray of hope,' she thought secretly to herself, but the words that flowed from her mouth were different, "I thank you because now that you're here, Aleron may actually be outta my life for good."
A tender smile fluttered across his face. "I'm just glad I could be of assistance to a friend."
'A friend...' She thought to herself sadly. 'I guess that's all we'll ever be from now on...' She wanted to kick and kill herself then and there. 'It's all your fault anyway Tomoyo for pushing him away when you knew very well that you still loved him!'
She sighed. "I better be going now..." Tomoyo trailed off as she stood up and made her way to the door, Eriol following after her. "So when will we be seeing the judge?"
He opened the door for her. "In two days. I still have to show my boss the evidence. Are you sure you don't want me to escort you home?"
"I'll be fine on my own. If I don't need any FBI Agent watching me, then that means I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself," Tomoyo replied confidently. The Paris Police offered Tomoyo some protection when she was interviewed last week after the incident at the restaurant, but she refused saying that it wasn't necessary. But what Tomoyo didn't know was that she was watched nearly 24/7. Two secret under cover cops were keeping watch of her, making sure no harm came to her what-so-ever.
"You sure?" he asked looking doubtful.
"I'm positive." She flashed him a reassuring grin before giving him a slight wave and walking down the pavement and towards her car. "Ja ne, Eriol-kun."
"Yeah... Ja ne," he murmured, watching her climb into her mustang. But for some unknown reason, he was feeling uneasy as he watched her drive away. A black car followed in pursuit of her's and he knew that was the car of the two under cover cops who were assigned to keep watch of her safety. He was starting to worry about Tomoyo's safety, but reminded himself that she had protection close by if need be. But still...would two cops be enough? Eriol entered his apartment and closed the door behind him. He knew something was going to go wrong... and his instincts were never incorrect. He just wished this one time that his instincts were incorrect and that he was being paranoid for no reason at all.
Later On That Night
The black FBI car pulled to a stop in front of Tomoyo's house just as she entered it and shut the door securely behind her. Lights illuminated through the curtains, showing that someone was indeed in the peaceful looking house. The man in the passanger's seat stared at the two story building before leaning his seat back and resting his arms behind his head as he yawned widely.
"Another long night to look forward to," he commented to his blonde haired companion.
He peered at the red head with pale blue eyes. "You can say that again."
"You got anythin' to eat, Al'?" the red head asked hopefully.
Allen sighed and shook his head. "Nah." He then narrowed his blue eyes into a glare. "If you didn't forget, Kyle, you finished all of our food thirty minutes ago!"
Kyle looked up at Allen with innocent teal eyes. "I was hungry!"
He snorted and rolled his eyes. "Yeah... So was I. Next time I bring food, I ain't givin' you none, you hear? Kyle? A-"
"Look!" Kyle exclaimed in a whisper.
Hearing the urgency in his voice, Allen peered through the tinted windows to see figures dressed in black run stealthily up to Tomoyo's lawn and surround her house. There had to be at least eight of them and one of them jogged up to the door and looked to be doing something to the knob. Kyle and Allen glanced at each other.
"It seems as if we'll be gettin' some action tonight," Kyle remarked, equiping himself with some guns and bullets.
"Yeah," Allen agreed before picking up his walkie talkie. "This is 0094 requesting back up immediately."
"10-4," a voice replied in the speaker.
Placing the walkie talkie back in the charger, they waited until the eight people unlocked the front door and filed inside before quietly leaving their car and running across the deserted street, their guns at the ready.
Tomoyo dried her hair off, having just finished taking a shower. She wore some loose white sweats and a navy blue t-shirt. She combed her wet raven locks as she took a seat on the bed mattress. Setting the comb on her dresser, she looked at a group picture that her and a bunch of childhood friends took years and years ago. A smile fluttered across her face, happy memories running through her mind as she saw how happy they all looked. It was a picture of her, Sakura, Syaoran, Chiharu, Takashi, Naoko, Rika, and Eriol at a picnic. Syaoran and Sakura had their usual blush just being in the other's presence... Takashi had an arm around the smiling Chiharu's shoulder... Naoko and Rika were waving to the camera... she herself was grinning her usual sweet grin... and Eriol... he was smiling his usual charming smile. How happy and carefree they all looked; no worries troubling their thoughts. A shaky sigh escaped Tomoyo's lips. What she wouldn't give to go back to the good ol' days...
She was brought back to reality when the sound of her bed room door being kicked open reached her ears. Her amethyst orbs widen in shock and fear when seeing eight black dressed men file into her room, each one of them holding a gun. She crawled across her bed and off as she back towards the wall, trying to keep whatever distance she could between herself and them.
"There she is," one pointed out. All eight looked at her.
"C'mere girl!" another snarled as he advanced towards Tomoyo.
"No! Get away from me!" Tomoyo shrieked, slapping his hand away. She glared at them. "Get out of my house!"
He growled in annoyance. "Sorry, but no can do. Aleron gave us specific orders to-"
"I don't give a fuck what Aleron wants!" she shouted angrily. "Tell that damn bastard he can just go to hell!"
"You can tell him that yourself!" he snapped, grabbing ahold of Tomoyo's forearm.
She began to struggle to release herself from his grasp. "LET GO OF ME!"
The man ignored her as he began to drag her by force. She took desperate actions and bit his arm, making him cry out in pain and release her. Running with all her speed, she slipped through two men who tried to grab her but failed. Descending down the stairs, she jumped off from the fourth step and dashed out of her house, only to find a hand clamp over her mouth and hold her across the waist as whoever it was pulled her behind the bush. Her shrieks and screams were muffled as she struggled and kicked.
"Shh!" a male voice hissed, beckoning her to be quiet.
The eight men exited the house and stared around, trying to find some kind of sign of Tomoyo. She didn't listen to the man's plea for her to be quiet because the next thing Allen knew, she bit the palm of his hand. He bit down really hard on his bottom lip to stop himself from crying. He released his hold on her, and she turned around and fell on her rear end as she glared at Allen, who was nursing his hand, and at Kyle who was stifling his laughter.
"Shut up, Kyle!" Allen growled lowly.
"Who are you guys...?" Tomoyo asked cautiously.
"I'm Kyle, he's Allen," Kyle replied in a whisper as he flashed her his FBI badge. "We're both FBI agents that were assigned to protect you, Mademoiselle Daidouji. But enough of this chit-chat, right now, we gotta get you outta here."
Before they could make any further movements, someone peered at them from over the bush. "OVER HERE! THE DAIDOUJI GIRL IS HERE!"
"Shit!" Allen cursed, hauling Tomoyo up onto her feet. "Start running! We'll hold them back until backup comes!"
A gun shot filled the air and the man that sounded the alarm fell dead to the ground by the bullet that flew from Kyle's gun. A trail of smoke trailed out from the bullet whole and all attention was turned towards their direction. Tomoyo had a fearful look plastered on her pale face.
"Why are you standing there for? I thought I told you to run!" Allen growled, punching one of the seven men who ran at them.
"But -"
"Go!" Kyle urged.
"Be careful..." Tomoyo whispered, turning around and starting to run just as another gun shot filled the still air. She glanced over her shoulder to see red liquid staining the sleeve of Allen's jacket. Avoiding looking behind her, she tightly shut her eyes and tried to block off the sound of more guns being fired repeatedly.
She continued running as far and fast as her legs would allow her to. Ten minutes passed by when all sounds ceased and she slowed her jog to a stop. Resting her hands on her knees, she panted heavily. Once she regained her composure and her breathing, she chanced a glance over her shoulder to see that the street behind her was completely lifeless and empty. Deciding the most safest place would be with Eriol, she started to walk towards his apartment. Shivers ran up and down her spine and she would look over her shoulder and towards shadows whenever she heard something. She came up with the solution that she was paranoid and mentally kicked herself for being so jumpy. She rounded a corner, and the next thing she knew, someone pulled her against him as a cloth covered her nose and mouth. The sent of alcohol filled her nostrils and went into her brain, jumbling her thoughts and making her world spin. Oxygen failed to go to her lungs and darkness started to cover her vision before she fell unconscious.
To Be Continued...
Azure Rosas: ^^; Heh... I updated! Surprise, surprise! I'm sooo very sorry for putting this fic on hold for a super long while! ._. And I'm sorry for the 'cliffhanger' I left at the end of this chap. -_-' I know that's not what ya'll were expecting after waiting so patiently and for so long, but it was the best I can do considering that right now I have a head ache. *sighs* Anyway, please do not flame me and go all crazy on me for not updating for months and for ending the ch. the way I did. I'll try to update as soon as I can, no guarantees. I'm planning on making this fic at least 10 chapters long. It may be less than 10 chapters, or more, you can never tell especially when I'm the author of the fic. ^^; *wavez* Ja! And arigatou to those that reviewed and I thank everyone for their support!