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Okay. Next time I say I'll be updating a lot quicker, ignore me. If you want to satiate your urge to kill me after this time's instalment, please take a number and wait your turn. =P WARNING: S+S overload! ;D
Trial of Fate
By Ash Night
Chapter Eight
"Ah, Eriol." The elderly professor smiled. "What brings you here on a weekday?"
"Hey Professor D," The blue haired man greeted. "Just thought I'd drop by."
"Drop by?" Professor Dharamsi's eyes twinkled. "Does Mr. Li not require any of your assistance today?"
Eriol brought has hand up behind his head and sweat dropped. "I slept in." He said sheepishly.
The Professor shook his head but chuckled. "Better late than never, Eriol."
"Nah," Eriol grinned. "He won't miss me."
"If you say so." The Professor busied himself searching through a big thick book.
"So what's up with you, Professor D?" Eriol leaned against the desk.
"Just the usual, researching." The grey haired man replied. "And what of you, Eriol? Did you visit Sylvie? I haven't talked to you very recently, it seems."
"Did I!?"
Professor Dharamsi looked up, upon hearing the excited youth's voice.
"You were right, she did seem like the real deal." Eriol explained. "I've never met anybody with that sort of clairvoyant ability! She was amazing."
"Oh?" The sensei asked, urging him to continue.
"And it was as if she read my mind, she commented on quite a few things I was thinking about. Mental telepathy."
The professor smiled. "So what is it you're getting at?"
"It must be possible to have more than one type." Eriol grinned. "Extra sensory perception can exist in more than one form in any given individual. Wow."
"You're sounding more like me, the know-it-all professor everyday. I don't think that's quite healthy, Eriol."
Eriol's grin stretched a little wider. "I'm flattered to be compared to you, by you."
"There's nothing near flattering upon being compared to an old man like me." A little smile appeared on the aging professor's face. "Why don't you go out and have some fun with friends?" He pulled up his glasses and looked up at Eriol. "What do you call that? Hanging out?"
The blue haired man laughed at the professor, he had said the term as if it a completely foreign language. "That's correct, Professor D." Eriol crossed his arms and tried to keep from laughing again. "You're just trying to rid yourself of me, aren't you?"
"Get rid of you?" The grey haired man lifted his hand up to his heart. "Never ever."
"Cut the sarcasm, Professor." Eriol walked over to where the professor and the giant book were. "Cool book."
The Professor chuckled and handed him the book. "Knock yourself out, Eriol." He shook his head happily.
***
Sakura watched intensively as the two figures walked in, studying each with precision. The man had dark hair, he was tall as well, almost as tall as Li. Almost. He was dressed very neatly, with his black suit and his matching tie. The same thing could not be said for the women on the other hand, who was inevitably Ms. Chin herself. Jin-Jin had long black flowing hair, and the reddest of eyes. Sakura wouldn't say she was dressed for the occasion at all...
"Hey..."
Sakura tore her gaze away from the pair as she heard the deep, yet soothing voice.
"You looked as if you were ready to pounce." Li inferred, grinning.
"I believe I have all the right reasons to as well." Sakura met his gaze. "I just hope Tomoyo and Mei-Fa stay away."
"You don't make dense friends, do you?"
"What?" Sakura stared at him as if he were crazy.
He sighed mockingly. "Tomoyo is intelligent, I take it?"
"Of course."
"All's well that ends well."
Sakura watched Li smirk. But that smirk soon disappeared, and she was also aware of why.
"You showed up, Syaoran." The women grinned as she sat down across from Sakura.
The man that had accompanied her smiled wickedly at Li and turned to Sakura. "And who might this lovely lady be?"
Li noticed the charming smile he had flashed Sakura, he didn't like that at all.
Unfortunately, Chin noticed as well. "Is she your latest slut?" She screeched, with a tone of obvious jealousy.
Sakura lowered her eyebrows and was about to reply, only Li beat her to it.
"You will not be calling my lawyer such names, understand?" His voice was dangerously low.
Sakura was at a lost for words, Li had defended her... Something she had never even dreamed of, not that her dreams ever included Li.
"Especially names that are clearly reserved for you." Li added bitterly, not waiting for her response.
Jin-Jin shot daggers at the amber eyed man, then reverted her eyes to study the auburn haired girl. With her skirt and her hair loosely flowing over her shoulders, she hardly looked like a lawyer. "You're his lawyer?" She demanded to know, her voice full of astonishment. "Seriously?"
"I am," Sakura replied, annoyed at Chin's tone of voice. The tone of voice which clearly screamed, 'You don't look anything like a lawyer, you have got to be kidding me.' "Does your intelligence not able you to comprehend that?" She kept a completely straight face.
Li had to bite back his sudden urge to burst into a fit of laughter. Sakura was definitely witty, no doubt, something he admired. It suddenly hit him that his 'Reasons to admire Sakura Kinomoto' list was quickly growing, a list in which he had unconsciously made up in his mind.
Chin's womanish features tightened into anger as she turned to Cheng, obviously wanting him to defend her.
Noticing how Chin reacted, Sakura loosened up. How dangerous could a women who couldn't fire up her own insults be? Sakura allowed a little smile surface to her lips.
"You'll have to excuse my client, miss," Zing Cheng apologized politely. "I'm Zing Cheng, her lawyer, I'm very pleased to meet you."
Meanwhile, Li glared at the man. How superficial can you get? Anybody in their right minds, as well as out of their minds, would surely be able to see through the phoney for what he truly was. Li thought silently to himself. Or maybe I just hate him with a bitter passion. He turned to see Sakura, eager to see her reaction to such a gesture.
"Sakura Kinomoto," She replied professionally with a small smile. "I'm glad to have met you too, Mr. Cheng."
Li wasn't able to tell if Sakura saw through the real Zing Cheng or not. It was just like her to be such a professional in her line of work, proving him, and many others wrong about her qualifications. Then again, Sakura didn't know Cheng like he did, and Li was determined to keep her away from that scheming bastard.
"And this is Jin-Jin Chin, my client." He motioned his actions at the vulgar women.
Sakura nodded at Chin and deliberately smiled brightly at her. "I'm honoured to be in your presence, as I've heard so much about you." She decided to add a little sarcasm, just for flair. And fun.
The women did not bother to be polite, which did not come to a huge surprise to Sakura. "Whatever," She replied disgustingly. "We're not here for games, we're here about legal matters."
It took Sakura everything in her to keep from bursting into a fit of laughter. "Legal matters?" She raised a brow. "Since when did you start caring about these legal matters?"
"Don't act as if you've known me all your life." The dark haired women bit back.
"Act?" Sakura's face lit up with mock horror. "Frankly, I'm quite glad I haven't been blessed enough to know you all your life."
Li was amused at all this, he liked the way Sakura spoke with such confidence. Except it really was not in his full interest to observe a full on cat fight between the two, the public certainly didn't need it, as much as he would have liked to see Sakura kick some ass. Which he had no doubt she could have outwitted Chin easily.
"Why you little bi-"
"Enough already." Li cut in, before a furious Jin-Jin could finish her colourful sentence. He didn't bother looking at her, it was hard enough sitting at the same table as her.
"For once," It seemed as if Cheng had finally decided to speak up. "I would have to agree with Mr. Li."
The chocolate haired man eyed him suspiciously, wondering what in the world he was up to.
"We were actually here to arrange the day of the trial."
Day of the trial? The simple little phrase shot through Li's heart like an arrow set on flames. That would be the day that would decide his sweet daughter's fate. He wasn't an idiot, he knew this day would eventually come.
Sakura nodded, sensing Li's sudden uneasiness. "When will that be?"
"That all really depends," The opposing lawyer announced casually. "How much time do you need?"
Li really didn't like the tone of his voice as he asked that question, his fists clenched.
"It's not all just up to us," She glanced over at Li and turned back. "How much more time do you two need to prepare?"
"Time? I could get this done and over with in a matter of seconds." His cockiness finally took it's path. "How does a week sound to you?"
Sakura bit her lip, he definitely did not respect her as a lawyer. The man was bragging already! But a week? Sakura felt as if he were challenging her, trying to prove he was the better of the two lawyers.
"A week?" Li repeated. "Don't you think that's a little rushed?"
"I agree," Sakura helped out, not sure if a week would be enough time. "With all the paperwork and legalities involved, it usually takes at least a month until the actual trial can take place."
"That's true, Miss Kinomoto." Cheng slipped his fingers through his perfectly gelled black hair.
"Don't tell me Ms. I'm-such-a-great-lawyer isn't up to it." Chin mocked, her red eyes flashed with jealousy.
Sakura was waiting for Cheng to say more, but he didn't. Ignoring Chin, Sakura turned to Li. "What do you think, Li?" Sakura asked. "Is a week okay with you?"
Li smiled genuinely, somewhat happy that Sakura had bothered to ask for his opinion. He did not recall any of his previous lawyers doing anything even remarkably similar to what Sakura had just did, as small as the act. "You're in charge, if it works for you, it definitely works for me."
"Well," Chin demanded impatiently, aware of the smiles Li was giving to the stupid young lawyer. She had come to her conclusion that Li was definitely having her in bed. "Are you up for it or what?"
A million thoughts and questions must have swirled around in Sakura's thoughts. Can I handle this? Am I ready? What if it wasn't enough time? She didn't know why, but all of a sudden, the thought of letting Li down shattered her heart.
***
"So how do you like your doughnut?" Tomoyo watched as the little four year old girl munched on her rainbow sprinkled pastry.
"I like it very much so, Tomoyo." Mei-Fa smiled, icing around her mouth.
Tomoyo sighed with relief. It had taken her practically forever to settle the kid down after Mei-Fa had informed her of the women that had walked into the cafe.
"Is she still here?" Mei-Fas asked, all of a sudden.
Tomoyo knew exactly who the little girl was referring to. "Yes, she is."
Mei-Fa continued to take bites from her doughnut. "Thank you for the doughnut, Tomoyo."
The dark haired designer smiled. "You're welcome, Mei-Fa."
***
"Take your time," Cheng encouraged. "This is important."
Chin groaned, exasperated at her lawyer's comment. "We really don't have all day."
"A week it is." Sakura said firmly, after thinking it over.
"Great!" Cheng grinned. "It's settled then, the trial will be held in exactly one week." He looked up to meet Sakura's green eyes. "By the way, It was all arranged nearly a month ago, I'm a man who plans ahead." He grinned again.
I bet those plans don't involve losing to my lawyer, which you most indefinitely will, Cheng. He shot the man an icy stare.
"Really?" Sakura's green eyes widened like a little child's, her naive spirit taking over her. "What would have happened had I refused your offer?"
"You didn't, did you?"
She gave a weak nod.
"Let's leave it at that then... And we'll see how you fare as an attorney."
"You're right," Sakura said brave, although she thought his behaviour rather odd. "We'll see."
Li was just happy that their encounter was finally over. Strangely enough, he was also happy that Sakura would be away from the manipulative Cheng.
Apparently, Chin was in full spirits as well. "You'll be sorry, Kinomoto." She threatened as she stood up. "Have fun with your slut, Li." She managed to sneer at the messy haired man, before she stalked off.
"Goodbye, Kinomoto-san." Cheng flash her a sly grin and followed Chin, not bothering to say goodbye to Li.
Sakura wasn't about to let that women's comment get to her, she knew better. But she had noticed that it got to Li though... "You looked as if you were ready to pounce." She tilted her head.
"I'll be back, Sakur-"
"Don't sweat it Li," Sakura smiled. "You really shouldn't let her get to you." Truthfully, she was incredibly touched at Li's efforts.
Li groaned, but reluctantly agreed as he saw how sweet her smile was. Strange how a simple smile had persuaded his decision so. "Fine," He blurted out. "Next time she won't be so lucky though."
"Do you usually go around defending everybody's honour?" Sakura inquired, both curious and amused.
Li flashed her a devious grin. "Not really, only certain angels."
The emerald eyed girl raised her eyebrows. "For some reason, I don't believe you, Casanova." Meiling had told and warned her about her cousin's flirtish nature.
"Then don't," He smiled. "But you must let me make it up to you, your grace."
"Make what up to me?" She asked curiously.
"First of all, that rude encounter just now." He replied sincerely. Li watched as she shook her head, her soft hair swishing around.
"That wasn't even your fault to begin with."
"I know." He shrugged. "Rarely, if ever, is anything my fault." He grinned.
"Just when I thought you were actually a decent person, you go and prove me wrong." Sakura crossed her arms. He was, in fact, a grade A jerk.
"Actually, I just wanted an excuse to take you to dinner."
His next phrase left the emerald eyed lawyer a little astonished., although Sakura couldn't help but giggle at his boyish answer.
"And what, if I'm obligated to ask, your highness," His amber eyes hiding his deep delight. "do you find so amusing?"
Sakura stopped her laughter and managed a small smile. "You're not mocking me, are you?" She plunked her hands on her slim waist.
"Mocking you?" He flashed her an expression of confusion. "I must admit mocking you is one of my favourite pastimes, but that is definitely not the case this very moment."
Sakura saw the bright laughter present in his deep pools of amber, and was surprised at how reluctant her eyes were from leaving his gaze.
"You're staring," Li stepped closer to the girl in front of him. "Do I interest you?" He expertly lowered his voice to a low whisper.
Sakura, who was visibly aware of the closeness between him and herself tried to back away, too bad she was already up against the chair. She shivered as she realized that Li had brushed a lock of her hair behind her ear. "Why are you doing this?" She gasped, surprised that she was still able to control her voice.
"Doing what?" Li grinned, trying his best to sound as if he were but an innocent child.
She swallowed and found herself studying his features. He had a rugged look to him, dark amber eyes that she thought were absolutely mysterious, and his unruly chestnut brown hair that waved in his face. He was dangerously attractive, if looks could kill...
"Since you're still busy dreamingly studying me," Li grinned at her. "You won't mind if I do the same, do you?"
"We should go get Tomoyo and Mei-Fa now, Li." She answered, trying not to think of what he just said to her. She was also desperate to get away, frightened of the emotions she was experiencing. Emotions she had never felt before, and she didn't want to feel them anymore, for they were almost too good to be true.
Li gave her a tender smile as he in return, studied her. He noticed that she had the most kissable mouth he had ever seen, rosy, just like pink cherry blossom petals. And her skin was smooth, with a tint hue of bright red- no, more pink than red. Then there were her amazing green emerald eyes, which flashed with fear. She was frightened. "Don't fear me, your highness." He lifted her chin as he stared into her eyes, and found himself drowning in them.
"W-why would I be scared of you?" Sakura felt small sparks fly through her body as Li kept his hand on her face.
Li chuckled. "Then you'll come for dinner?"
His deep amber eyes were so warm and tender that Sakura nodded, she didn't have any other alternative.
"I promise you'll have a great time, Princess." Li bent down and whispered into her ear, sending shivers down her spine.
Sakura closed her eyes as she heard his voice, making her ears tickle.
"What have you two been up to?"
Li and Sakura automatically backed away from each other at the sound of the sly, familiar female voice. Actually, Li had done all the backing up, considering the position Sakura was in. He ran his hands through his thick hair and grinned goofily. "Just talking."
"Hi Tomoyo!" Sakura smiled, trying to recover from the bliss she was in. "Just talking, like Li said."
"Daddy!" Mei-Fa, who was hiding behind Tomoyo leapt up and gave her father a huge hug.
"Hey Kid." Li hugged her back.
Mei-Fa lifted her head up and ran towards Sakura, giving her the same big hug. "What were you and Daddy doing, Sakura?"
Sakura smiled at Mei-Fa's hug, she was strong. "Hey little fairy!" She returned the hug. "Nothing, just talking." Sakura looked up at Li, who gave her a wolfish grin.
"Really?" Tomoyo cut in. "Are you sure?" She smiled.
"Yes, positive." Sakura said quickly. "Everything alright with you two?"
"We're fine," The amethyst eyed girl smiled. "Right Mei-Fa?"
"Yes ma'am!" Mei-Fa smiled, she was in full spirits after seeing Sakura and her father.
"Great!" Sakura was glad to hear that Chin did not see Mei-Fa.
"Splendid!" Li smirked.
"Just excellent." Sakura challenged, giving Li the same smirk back.
"Perfect." Li crossed his arms.
"I think we're missing something here." Tomoyo laughed.
Mei-Fa contributed as well by erupting into a fit of giggles.
"What?" Li asked, laughing. "I just think it's perfect that Sakura's joining me for dinner tonight."
"Really?" Tomoyo's eyes laughed.
"Yes," Sakura said as-matter-of-factly. "It's just dinner." She struggled to speak with her usual tone of confidence, and she struggled from heating up and looking like a tomato as well. She watched as Li raised his brows at her. "Don't you have to get back to work?" She asked.
"Trying to get rid of me already, huh?"
"Why would she do that, daddy?" Mei-Fa asked innocently, not aware of his teasing. "I think Sakura likes you."
Li smiled at his daughter and turned to Sakura. "You're absolutely right, Sakura. I'll pick you up around six." After giving her another smile and saying goodbye to them all, Li Syaoran left the cafe.
"That was just so cute!" Tomoyo shrieked. "Now why didn't I bring my camcorder?"
"It's just dinner, Tomoyo." Sakura sweat dropped. "It's really not a big deal." Her usual confidence returned, now that you know who wasn't anywhere around.
"Sure, sure." Tomoyo waved her hand around, clearly not believing a word she said.
"I'm sure you and daddy will have a wonderful time together." Mei-Fa smiled at Sakura. "I just know it."
That's exactly what I dread, little talented fairy. Sakura thought as she remembered the little girl's ability to predict future events. And she knew she would probably end up having a wonderful time, the happy look in Mei-Fa's innocent eyes said everything.
***
"Hello!" Jin-Jin Chin waved her hand in front of her lawyer.
Zing Cheng frowned. His mind was on the women he had had the pleasure of meeting earlier this afternoon. "What?" He snapped.
"What were you thinking of just now?" The black haired women asked. "You looked really out of it."
"Nothing." He replied without emotion. But he found himself unconsciously smiling as the image of the green eyed girl flashed into his mind.
"Tell me!" Chin demanded, like a little spoiled child.
"I told you it was nothing," He persisted as he pulled her closer to him. "Just you, my darling." He breathed.
"Really?" The gullible Jin-Jin asked, smiling as he pressed his lips roughly onto hers.
Cheng did not reply as he slid his arm up her back effortlessly, but there was another women on his mind; Sakura Kinomoto. He continued to kiss the women in his hands passionately.
***
"What do you think of this place?" The amber eyed man asked as he looked at the women seated across from him. Her hair was swept up on her head, and she wore a simple but elegant yellow dress. She was simply stunning.
"It's beautiful, Li." Sakura smiled as she looked around. It was a stylish restaurant that served Japanese food. "Do you like Japanese food?" She asked, wondering why he chose this place.
"I do," He replied. "It's my favourite, and I also thought you'd like it as well."
"How thoughtful of you." She teased.
"You seem like your usual self now." He laughed, glad she wasn't feeling uneasy anymore.
"So do you."
"I'm always my usual self, your grace."
Sakura smiled at him but rolled her eyes. "I can see that."
"How do you like it here in Hong Kong?"
"It's beautiful." A genuine smile of appreciation spread onto her lips. "It's my first time here too."
"I'm glad you're enjoying it here, then."
"Me too." She smiled as the waiter brought them their orders.
They both thanked the waiter.
Sakura looked over at Li, who was dipping his raw fish into his plate of wasabi. She stared at him as he plunked the sushi into his mouth.
"What?" He grinned.
"Don't go spitting out fire now." She teased. "I don't think the restaurant would appreciate their walls if they were on flames."
He chuckled. "I've done this a million of times, no worries."
Sakura watched as popped another wasabi covered sushi into his mouth. "At least now I know where to take you on your birthday." She remarked.
"My birthday isn't until a long run, I'm sure we can do something sooner."
"Oh? Like what?"
Li pretended to thoughtfully think. "We can do something you want to do."
"I wouldn't want to bother you, Li."
"Bother me?" He looked truly shocked. "You only grace me with your presence."
Sakura remembered what Meiling had told her. Li Syaoran was the biggest tease and flirt she had ever encountered. "Have you lived in Hong Kong all your life?" She asked, changing the topic.
Li nodded. "I was raised here by my mother, my father died when I was really little."
"I'm sorry, I didn't know."
"Don't be," Li smiled tenderly. "I didn't really know him."
"Is there anyone else in your family?"
"Yah, I've had the pleasure of living with three older sisters my entire life."
Sakura giggled at his sarcasm. "Then you must know a lot about girls."
"Why do you think I'm so popular with them?"
"You're still as conceited as ever." Sakura shook her head.
"Is that why I interest you?" He grinned. "I know I interest you."
"Arrogant jerk."
"Such words only show how much I mean to you." His eyes full of amusement, he enjoyed getting to her.
"I can only feel sorry for your sisters."
"You should be feeling sorry for me." He mumbled.
Sakura could not help but start laughing again. "Why is that?"
"You can only understand the pain I had to go through if you meet them yourself." He shuddered.
This only made the emerald eyed girl laugh even harder.
Li started laughing gaily as well, her laughter was contagious. "How about you?"
"Hmm?" She tilted her head at him.
Li smiled at the sight of her action. "Your family, how are they?"
Sakura paused. "My family?" She didn't like talking about that.
"It's fine, you don't have to talk about anything you don't feel comfortable talking to me about." He gave her an understanding look.
"No, it's okay." Sakura started, he had shared his family with her, she figured she'd do the same. "I've never had any parents, unless you count Ms. Elena."
Li could see the smile on her face as she mentioned the name, he had a sudden urge to share in on her happiness. "Who's that?" He then paused and added, "if you don't mind me asking, of course."
"I don't mind. Ms. Elena raised me ever since I could remember, she's the sweetest person I know. She was also head of the orphanage, where I lived most of my life."
"I didn't know you grew up in an orphanage." Li sounded surprised.
"You've only just met me, of course you don't." She smirked.
"Right," He remembered. "Did you go to school?"
"Ms. Elena taught us in the building where we lived."
"She taught you how to be a lawyer?" He asked, as surprised as ever.
"Oh no," Sakura smiled. "I attended high school because Ms. Elena convinced them of my ability to grasp concepts quickly."
"Did you go to university?"
"Yah, I had to, to get this job." Sakura remarked. "Partly on a scholarship, and partly with Meiling's help."
"How did my cousin help you?"
Sakura flushed, looking embarrassed. "She paid for the remaining of my tuition."
"That's nothing to be ashamed of, Sakura."
"Meiling's just great, I owe her so much."
"She thinks of you like that as well, a great friend." Li smiled.
"Thanks, but I only hope I can make it up to her someday." Sakura replied. She had taken Li's case because Meiling was one of her best friends, and she owed her so much.
"You may already have."
Sakura did not know what Li was talking about, she gave him a confused look.
"You don't regret becoming a lawyer, do you?"
"Most of the time, no." Sakura told him honestly. "Sometimes I feel as if I'm failing though." She admitted, but she didn't tell him how frightened she was of losing this case to Cheng.
"You've just began, you should give yourself more time and credit," He looked into her eyes. "I'm positive you won't fail."
His gaze was so reassuring, Sakura felt like her troubles were all melting away. "What about you, do you regret anything you've done?"
Li smirked. "Certainly not," He said proudly. "A Li has no regrets, absolutely nothing."
"Nothing at all?" His answer had surprised her a great deal.
"Nope, nothing."
"But everybody has regrets, you can't possibly have none." She continued, determined to break his haughtiness.
"Like I told you, I'm regret free." He insisted in his proud voice.
Sakura gave a little sigh and shook her head. "You're a bad liar."
"And you, my dear, are wrong."
To be continued...
There, I'm done! I must apologize for the delay, although apologizing will do no good. I didn't have inspiration, and I didn't know what to write. X.x Go ahead and hurt me. *Stands still* =P Thanks for reading, I'm out. 'Tis bedtime. =D -Ash
Special thanks goes out to the following people:
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Okay. Next time I say I'll be updating a lot quicker, ignore me. If you want to satiate your urge to kill me after this time's instalment, please take a number and wait your turn. =P WARNING: S+S overload! ;D
Trial of Fate
By Ash Night
Chapter Eight
"Ah, Eriol." The elderly professor smiled. "What brings you here on a weekday?"
"Hey Professor D," The blue haired man greeted. "Just thought I'd drop by."
"Drop by?" Professor Dharamsi's eyes twinkled. "Does Mr. Li not require any of your assistance today?"
Eriol brought has hand up behind his head and sweat dropped. "I slept in." He said sheepishly.
The Professor shook his head but chuckled. "Better late than never, Eriol."
"Nah," Eriol grinned. "He won't miss me."
"If you say so." The Professor busied himself searching through a big thick book.
"So what's up with you, Professor D?" Eriol leaned against the desk.
"Just the usual, researching." The grey haired man replied. "And what of you, Eriol? Did you visit Sylvie? I haven't talked to you very recently, it seems."
"Did I!?"
Professor Dharamsi looked up, upon hearing the excited youth's voice.
"You were right, she did seem like the real deal." Eriol explained. "I've never met anybody with that sort of clairvoyant ability! She was amazing."
"Oh?" The sensei asked, urging him to continue.
"And it was as if she read my mind, she commented on quite a few things I was thinking about. Mental telepathy."
The professor smiled. "So what is it you're getting at?"
"It must be possible to have more than one type." Eriol grinned. "Extra sensory perception can exist in more than one form in any given individual. Wow."
"You're sounding more like me, the know-it-all professor everyday. I don't think that's quite healthy, Eriol."
Eriol's grin stretched a little wider. "I'm flattered to be compared to you, by you."
"There's nothing near flattering upon being compared to an old man like me." A little smile appeared on the aging professor's face. "Why don't you go out and have some fun with friends?" He pulled up his glasses and looked up at Eriol. "What do you call that? Hanging out?"
The blue haired man laughed at the professor, he had said the term as if it a completely foreign language. "That's correct, Professor D." Eriol crossed his arms and tried to keep from laughing again. "You're just trying to rid yourself of me, aren't you?"
"Get rid of you?" The grey haired man lifted his hand up to his heart. "Never ever."
"Cut the sarcasm, Professor." Eriol walked over to where the professor and the giant book were. "Cool book."
The Professor chuckled and handed him the book. "Knock yourself out, Eriol." He shook his head happily.
***
Sakura watched intensively as the two figures walked in, studying each with precision. The man had dark hair, he was tall as well, almost as tall as Li. Almost. He was dressed very neatly, with his black suit and his matching tie. The same thing could not be said for the women on the other hand, who was inevitably Ms. Chin herself. Jin-Jin had long black flowing hair, and the reddest of eyes. Sakura wouldn't say she was dressed for the occasion at all...
"Hey..."
Sakura tore her gaze away from the pair as she heard the deep, yet soothing voice.
"You looked as if you were ready to pounce." Li inferred, grinning.
"I believe I have all the right reasons to as well." Sakura met his gaze. "I just hope Tomoyo and Mei-Fa stay away."
"You don't make dense friends, do you?"
"What?" Sakura stared at him as if he were crazy.
He sighed mockingly. "Tomoyo is intelligent, I take it?"
"Of course."
"All's well that ends well."
Sakura watched Li smirk. But that smirk soon disappeared, and she was also aware of why.
"You showed up, Syaoran." The women grinned as she sat down across from Sakura.
The man that had accompanied her smiled wickedly at Li and turned to Sakura. "And who might this lovely lady be?"
Li noticed the charming smile he had flashed Sakura, he didn't like that at all.
Unfortunately, Chin noticed as well. "Is she your latest slut?" She screeched, with a tone of obvious jealousy.
Sakura lowered her eyebrows and was about to reply, only Li beat her to it.
"You will not be calling my lawyer such names, understand?" His voice was dangerously low.
Sakura was at a lost for words, Li had defended her... Something she had never even dreamed of, not that her dreams ever included Li.
"Especially names that are clearly reserved for you." Li added bitterly, not waiting for her response.
Jin-Jin shot daggers at the amber eyed man, then reverted her eyes to study the auburn haired girl. With her skirt and her hair loosely flowing over her shoulders, she hardly looked like a lawyer. "You're his lawyer?" She demanded to know, her voice full of astonishment. "Seriously?"
"I am," Sakura replied, annoyed at Chin's tone of voice. The tone of voice which clearly screamed, 'You don't look anything like a lawyer, you have got to be kidding me.' "Does your intelligence not able you to comprehend that?" She kept a completely straight face.
Li had to bite back his sudden urge to burst into a fit of laughter. Sakura was definitely witty, no doubt, something he admired. It suddenly hit him that his 'Reasons to admire Sakura Kinomoto' list was quickly growing, a list in which he had unconsciously made up in his mind.
Chin's womanish features tightened into anger as she turned to Cheng, obviously wanting him to defend her.
Noticing how Chin reacted, Sakura loosened up. How dangerous could a women who couldn't fire up her own insults be? Sakura allowed a little smile surface to her lips.
"You'll have to excuse my client, miss," Zing Cheng apologized politely. "I'm Zing Cheng, her lawyer, I'm very pleased to meet you."
Meanwhile, Li glared at the man. How superficial can you get? Anybody in their right minds, as well as out of their minds, would surely be able to see through the phoney for what he truly was. Li thought silently to himself. Or maybe I just hate him with a bitter passion. He turned to see Sakura, eager to see her reaction to such a gesture.
"Sakura Kinomoto," She replied professionally with a small smile. "I'm glad to have met you too, Mr. Cheng."
Li wasn't able to tell if Sakura saw through the real Zing Cheng or not. It was just like her to be such a professional in her line of work, proving him, and many others wrong about her qualifications. Then again, Sakura didn't know Cheng like he did, and Li was determined to keep her away from that scheming bastard.
"And this is Jin-Jin Chin, my client." He motioned his actions at the vulgar women.
Sakura nodded at Chin and deliberately smiled brightly at her. "I'm honoured to be in your presence, as I've heard so much about you." She decided to add a little sarcasm, just for flair. And fun.
The women did not bother to be polite, which did not come to a huge surprise to Sakura. "Whatever," She replied disgustingly. "We're not here for games, we're here about legal matters."
It took Sakura everything in her to keep from bursting into a fit of laughter. "Legal matters?" She raised a brow. "Since when did you start caring about these legal matters?"
"Don't act as if you've known me all your life." The dark haired women bit back.
"Act?" Sakura's face lit up with mock horror. "Frankly, I'm quite glad I haven't been blessed enough to know you all your life."
Li was amused at all this, he liked the way Sakura spoke with such confidence. Except it really was not in his full interest to observe a full on cat fight between the two, the public certainly didn't need it, as much as he would have liked to see Sakura kick some ass. Which he had no doubt she could have outwitted Chin easily.
"Why you little bi-"
"Enough already." Li cut in, before a furious Jin-Jin could finish her colourful sentence. He didn't bother looking at her, it was hard enough sitting at the same table as her.
"For once," It seemed as if Cheng had finally decided to speak up. "I would have to agree with Mr. Li."
The chocolate haired man eyed him suspiciously, wondering what in the world he was up to.
"We were actually here to arrange the day of the trial."
Day of the trial? The simple little phrase shot through Li's heart like an arrow set on flames. That would be the day that would decide his sweet daughter's fate. He wasn't an idiot, he knew this day would eventually come.
Sakura nodded, sensing Li's sudden uneasiness. "When will that be?"
"That all really depends," The opposing lawyer announced casually. "How much time do you need?"
Li really didn't like the tone of his voice as he asked that question, his fists clenched.
"It's not all just up to us," She glanced over at Li and turned back. "How much more time do you two need to prepare?"
"Time? I could get this done and over with in a matter of seconds." His cockiness finally took it's path. "How does a week sound to you?"
Sakura bit her lip, he definitely did not respect her as a lawyer. The man was bragging already! But a week? Sakura felt as if he were challenging her, trying to prove he was the better of the two lawyers.
"A week?" Li repeated. "Don't you think that's a little rushed?"
"I agree," Sakura helped out, not sure if a week would be enough time. "With all the paperwork and legalities involved, it usually takes at least a month until the actual trial can take place."
"That's true, Miss Kinomoto." Cheng slipped his fingers through his perfectly gelled black hair.
"Don't tell me Ms. I'm-such-a-great-lawyer isn't up to it." Chin mocked, her red eyes flashed with jealousy.
Sakura was waiting for Cheng to say more, but he didn't. Ignoring Chin, Sakura turned to Li. "What do you think, Li?" Sakura asked. "Is a week okay with you?"
Li smiled genuinely, somewhat happy that Sakura had bothered to ask for his opinion. He did not recall any of his previous lawyers doing anything even remarkably similar to what Sakura had just did, as small as the act. "You're in charge, if it works for you, it definitely works for me."
"Well," Chin demanded impatiently, aware of the smiles Li was giving to the stupid young lawyer. She had come to her conclusion that Li was definitely having her in bed. "Are you up for it or what?"
A million thoughts and questions must have swirled around in Sakura's thoughts. Can I handle this? Am I ready? What if it wasn't enough time? She didn't know why, but all of a sudden, the thought of letting Li down shattered her heart.
***
"So how do you like your doughnut?" Tomoyo watched as the little four year old girl munched on her rainbow sprinkled pastry.
"I like it very much so, Tomoyo." Mei-Fa smiled, icing around her mouth.
Tomoyo sighed with relief. It had taken her practically forever to settle the kid down after Mei-Fa had informed her of the women that had walked into the cafe.
"Is she still here?" Mei-Fas asked, all of a sudden.
Tomoyo knew exactly who the little girl was referring to. "Yes, she is."
Mei-Fa continued to take bites from her doughnut. "Thank you for the doughnut, Tomoyo."
The dark haired designer smiled. "You're welcome, Mei-Fa."
***
"Take your time," Cheng encouraged. "This is important."
Chin groaned, exasperated at her lawyer's comment. "We really don't have all day."
"A week it is." Sakura said firmly, after thinking it over.
"Great!" Cheng grinned. "It's settled then, the trial will be held in exactly one week." He looked up to meet Sakura's green eyes. "By the way, It was all arranged nearly a month ago, I'm a man who plans ahead." He grinned again.
I bet those plans don't involve losing to my lawyer, which you most indefinitely will, Cheng. He shot the man an icy stare.
"Really?" Sakura's green eyes widened like a little child's, her naive spirit taking over her. "What would have happened had I refused your offer?"
"You didn't, did you?"
She gave a weak nod.
"Let's leave it at that then... And we'll see how you fare as an attorney."
"You're right," Sakura said brave, although she thought his behaviour rather odd. "We'll see."
Li was just happy that their encounter was finally over. Strangely enough, he was also happy that Sakura would be away from the manipulative Cheng.
Apparently, Chin was in full spirits as well. "You'll be sorry, Kinomoto." She threatened as she stood up. "Have fun with your slut, Li." She managed to sneer at the messy haired man, before she stalked off.
"Goodbye, Kinomoto-san." Cheng flash her a sly grin and followed Chin, not bothering to say goodbye to Li.
Sakura wasn't about to let that women's comment get to her, she knew better. But she had noticed that it got to Li though... "You looked as if you were ready to pounce." She tilted her head.
"I'll be back, Sakur-"
"Don't sweat it Li," Sakura smiled. "You really shouldn't let her get to you." Truthfully, she was incredibly touched at Li's efforts.
Li groaned, but reluctantly agreed as he saw how sweet her smile was. Strange how a simple smile had persuaded his decision so. "Fine," He blurted out. "Next time she won't be so lucky though."
"Do you usually go around defending everybody's honour?" Sakura inquired, both curious and amused.
Li flashed her a devious grin. "Not really, only certain angels."
The emerald eyed girl raised her eyebrows. "For some reason, I don't believe you, Casanova." Meiling had told and warned her about her cousin's flirtish nature.
"Then don't," He smiled. "But you must let me make it up to you, your grace."
"Make what up to me?" She asked curiously.
"First of all, that rude encounter just now." He replied sincerely. Li watched as she shook her head, her soft hair swishing around.
"That wasn't even your fault to begin with."
"I know." He shrugged. "Rarely, if ever, is anything my fault." He grinned.
"Just when I thought you were actually a decent person, you go and prove me wrong." Sakura crossed her arms. He was, in fact, a grade A jerk.
"Actually, I just wanted an excuse to take you to dinner."
His next phrase left the emerald eyed lawyer a little astonished., although Sakura couldn't help but giggle at his boyish answer.
"And what, if I'm obligated to ask, your highness," His amber eyes hiding his deep delight. "do you find so amusing?"
Sakura stopped her laughter and managed a small smile. "You're not mocking me, are you?" She plunked her hands on her slim waist.
"Mocking you?" He flashed her an expression of confusion. "I must admit mocking you is one of my favourite pastimes, but that is definitely not the case this very moment."
Sakura saw the bright laughter present in his deep pools of amber, and was surprised at how reluctant her eyes were from leaving his gaze.
"You're staring," Li stepped closer to the girl in front of him. "Do I interest you?" He expertly lowered his voice to a low whisper.
Sakura, who was visibly aware of the closeness between him and herself tried to back away, too bad she was already up against the chair. She shivered as she realized that Li had brushed a lock of her hair behind her ear. "Why are you doing this?" She gasped, surprised that she was still able to control her voice.
"Doing what?" Li grinned, trying his best to sound as if he were but an innocent child.
She swallowed and found herself studying his features. He had a rugged look to him, dark amber eyes that she thought were absolutely mysterious, and his unruly chestnut brown hair that waved in his face. He was dangerously attractive, if looks could kill...
"Since you're still busy dreamingly studying me," Li grinned at her. "You won't mind if I do the same, do you?"
"We should go get Tomoyo and Mei-Fa now, Li." She answered, trying not to think of what he just said to her. She was also desperate to get away, frightened of the emotions she was experiencing. Emotions she had never felt before, and she didn't want to feel them anymore, for they were almost too good to be true.
Li gave her a tender smile as he in return, studied her. He noticed that she had the most kissable mouth he had ever seen, rosy, just like pink cherry blossom petals. And her skin was smooth, with a tint hue of bright red- no, more pink than red. Then there were her amazing green emerald eyes, which flashed with fear. She was frightened. "Don't fear me, your highness." He lifted her chin as he stared into her eyes, and found himself drowning in them.
"W-why would I be scared of you?" Sakura felt small sparks fly through her body as Li kept his hand on her face.
Li chuckled. "Then you'll come for dinner?"
His deep amber eyes were so warm and tender that Sakura nodded, she didn't have any other alternative.
"I promise you'll have a great time, Princess." Li bent down and whispered into her ear, sending shivers down her spine.
Sakura closed her eyes as she heard his voice, making her ears tickle.
"What have you two been up to?"
Li and Sakura automatically backed away from each other at the sound of the sly, familiar female voice. Actually, Li had done all the backing up, considering the position Sakura was in. He ran his hands through his thick hair and grinned goofily. "Just talking."
"Hi Tomoyo!" Sakura smiled, trying to recover from the bliss she was in. "Just talking, like Li said."
"Daddy!" Mei-Fa, who was hiding behind Tomoyo leapt up and gave her father a huge hug.
"Hey Kid." Li hugged her back.
Mei-Fa lifted her head up and ran towards Sakura, giving her the same big hug. "What were you and Daddy doing, Sakura?"
Sakura smiled at Mei-Fa's hug, she was strong. "Hey little fairy!" She returned the hug. "Nothing, just talking." Sakura looked up at Li, who gave her a wolfish grin.
"Really?" Tomoyo cut in. "Are you sure?" She smiled.
"Yes, positive." Sakura said quickly. "Everything alright with you two?"
"We're fine," The amethyst eyed girl smiled. "Right Mei-Fa?"
"Yes ma'am!" Mei-Fa smiled, she was in full spirits after seeing Sakura and her father.
"Great!" Sakura was glad to hear that Chin did not see Mei-Fa.
"Splendid!" Li smirked.
"Just excellent." Sakura challenged, giving Li the same smirk back.
"Perfect." Li crossed his arms.
"I think we're missing something here." Tomoyo laughed.
Mei-Fa contributed as well by erupting into a fit of giggles.
"What?" Li asked, laughing. "I just think it's perfect that Sakura's joining me for dinner tonight."
"Really?" Tomoyo's eyes laughed.
"Yes," Sakura said as-matter-of-factly. "It's just dinner." She struggled to speak with her usual tone of confidence, and she struggled from heating up and looking like a tomato as well. She watched as Li raised his brows at her. "Don't you have to get back to work?" She asked.
"Trying to get rid of me already, huh?"
"Why would she do that, daddy?" Mei-Fa asked innocently, not aware of his teasing. "I think Sakura likes you."
Li smiled at his daughter and turned to Sakura. "You're absolutely right, Sakura. I'll pick you up around six." After giving her another smile and saying goodbye to them all, Li Syaoran left the cafe.
"That was just so cute!" Tomoyo shrieked. "Now why didn't I bring my camcorder?"
"It's just dinner, Tomoyo." Sakura sweat dropped. "It's really not a big deal." Her usual confidence returned, now that you know who wasn't anywhere around.
"Sure, sure." Tomoyo waved her hand around, clearly not believing a word she said.
"I'm sure you and daddy will have a wonderful time together." Mei-Fa smiled at Sakura. "I just know it."
That's exactly what I dread, little talented fairy. Sakura thought as she remembered the little girl's ability to predict future events. And she knew she would probably end up having a wonderful time, the happy look in Mei-Fa's innocent eyes said everything.
***
"Hello!" Jin-Jin Chin waved her hand in front of her lawyer.
Zing Cheng frowned. His mind was on the women he had had the pleasure of meeting earlier this afternoon. "What?" He snapped.
"What were you thinking of just now?" The black haired women asked. "You looked really out of it."
"Nothing." He replied without emotion. But he found himself unconsciously smiling as the image of the green eyed girl flashed into his mind.
"Tell me!" Chin demanded, like a little spoiled child.
"I told you it was nothing," He persisted as he pulled her closer to him. "Just you, my darling." He breathed.
"Really?" The gullible Jin-Jin asked, smiling as he pressed his lips roughly onto hers.
Cheng did not reply as he slid his arm up her back effortlessly, but there was another women on his mind; Sakura Kinomoto. He continued to kiss the women in his hands passionately.
***
"What do you think of this place?" The amber eyed man asked as he looked at the women seated across from him. Her hair was swept up on her head, and she wore a simple but elegant yellow dress. She was simply stunning.
"It's beautiful, Li." Sakura smiled as she looked around. It was a stylish restaurant that served Japanese food. "Do you like Japanese food?" She asked, wondering why he chose this place.
"I do," He replied. "It's my favourite, and I also thought you'd like it as well."
"How thoughtful of you." She teased.
"You seem like your usual self now." He laughed, glad she wasn't feeling uneasy anymore.
"So do you."
"I'm always my usual self, your grace."
Sakura smiled at him but rolled her eyes. "I can see that."
"How do you like it here in Hong Kong?"
"It's beautiful." A genuine smile of appreciation spread onto her lips. "It's my first time here too."
"I'm glad you're enjoying it here, then."
"Me too." She smiled as the waiter brought them their orders.
They both thanked the waiter.
Sakura looked over at Li, who was dipping his raw fish into his plate of wasabi. She stared at him as he plunked the sushi into his mouth.
"What?" He grinned.
"Don't go spitting out fire now." She teased. "I don't think the restaurant would appreciate their walls if they were on flames."
He chuckled. "I've done this a million of times, no worries."
Sakura watched as popped another wasabi covered sushi into his mouth. "At least now I know where to take you on your birthday." She remarked.
"My birthday isn't until a long run, I'm sure we can do something sooner."
"Oh? Like what?"
Li pretended to thoughtfully think. "We can do something you want to do."
"I wouldn't want to bother you, Li."
"Bother me?" He looked truly shocked. "You only grace me with your presence."
Sakura remembered what Meiling had told her. Li Syaoran was the biggest tease and flirt she had ever encountered. "Have you lived in Hong Kong all your life?" She asked, changing the topic.
Li nodded. "I was raised here by my mother, my father died when I was really little."
"I'm sorry, I didn't know."
"Don't be," Li smiled tenderly. "I didn't really know him."
"Is there anyone else in your family?"
"Yah, I've had the pleasure of living with three older sisters my entire life."
Sakura giggled at his sarcasm. "Then you must know a lot about girls."
"Why do you think I'm so popular with them?"
"You're still as conceited as ever." Sakura shook her head.
"Is that why I interest you?" He grinned. "I know I interest you."
"Arrogant jerk."
"Such words only show how much I mean to you." His eyes full of amusement, he enjoyed getting to her.
"I can only feel sorry for your sisters."
"You should be feeling sorry for me." He mumbled.
Sakura could not help but start laughing again. "Why is that?"
"You can only understand the pain I had to go through if you meet them yourself." He shuddered.
This only made the emerald eyed girl laugh even harder.
Li started laughing gaily as well, her laughter was contagious. "How about you?"
"Hmm?" She tilted her head at him.
Li smiled at the sight of her action. "Your family, how are they?"
Sakura paused. "My family?" She didn't like talking about that.
"It's fine, you don't have to talk about anything you don't feel comfortable talking to me about." He gave her an understanding look.
"No, it's okay." Sakura started, he had shared his family with her, she figured she'd do the same. "I've never had any parents, unless you count Ms. Elena."
Li could see the smile on her face as she mentioned the name, he had a sudden urge to share in on her happiness. "Who's that?" He then paused and added, "if you don't mind me asking, of course."
"I don't mind. Ms. Elena raised me ever since I could remember, she's the sweetest person I know. She was also head of the orphanage, where I lived most of my life."
"I didn't know you grew up in an orphanage." Li sounded surprised.
"You've only just met me, of course you don't." She smirked.
"Right," He remembered. "Did you go to school?"
"Ms. Elena taught us in the building where we lived."
"She taught you how to be a lawyer?" He asked, as surprised as ever.
"Oh no," Sakura smiled. "I attended high school because Ms. Elena convinced them of my ability to grasp concepts quickly."
"Did you go to university?"
"Yah, I had to, to get this job." Sakura remarked. "Partly on a scholarship, and partly with Meiling's help."
"How did my cousin help you?"
Sakura flushed, looking embarrassed. "She paid for the remaining of my tuition."
"That's nothing to be ashamed of, Sakura."
"Meiling's just great, I owe her so much."
"She thinks of you like that as well, a great friend." Li smiled.
"Thanks, but I only hope I can make it up to her someday." Sakura replied. She had taken Li's case because Meiling was one of her best friends, and she owed her so much.
"You may already have."
Sakura did not know what Li was talking about, she gave him a confused look.
"You don't regret becoming a lawyer, do you?"
"Most of the time, no." Sakura told him honestly. "Sometimes I feel as if I'm failing though." She admitted, but she didn't tell him how frightened she was of losing this case to Cheng.
"You've just began, you should give yourself more time and credit," He looked into her eyes. "I'm positive you won't fail."
His gaze was so reassuring, Sakura felt like her troubles were all melting away. "What about you, do you regret anything you've done?"
Li smirked. "Certainly not," He said proudly. "A Li has no regrets, absolutely nothing."
"Nothing at all?" His answer had surprised her a great deal.
"Nope, nothing."
"But everybody has regrets, you can't possibly have none." She continued, determined to break his haughtiness.
"Like I told you, I'm regret free." He insisted in his proud voice.
Sakura gave a little sigh and shook her head. "You're a bad liar."
"And you, my dear, are wrong."
To be continued...
There, I'm done! I must apologize for the delay, although apologizing will do no good. I didn't have inspiration, and I didn't know what to write. X.x Go ahead and hurt me. *Stands still* =P Thanks for reading, I'm out. 'Tis bedtime. =D -Ash