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Hmm, it looks like a update.
Trial of Fate
By AshN
Chapter Twelve
Hey everybody. If you haven't taken notice, I seem to be a conniving, sneaky little liar. But here are my deepest of thanks:
LiLV13TaNhDaO: I know, it takes me such a long time to update. x.x But I am estatic that you enjoyed it.
CCS fic Reader: Hey. I don't think I've seen you in a while, or is it my darn memory once again? Bah, I'm getting old. School kind so started, so yah. =P But yes, 'crucial' turning point. J Thank you, and my apologies for the really late update. =X
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Okay, now that that's done.. Onto the actual story. x.x
"This must be the place." A pair of deep green eyes glanced up at the fancy sign of the Italian restaurant. "Sakura, there really is no point being nervous." She scolded herself. The auburn haired woman took a deep breath, shook her head at her own nervousness and reached for the door.
It was warm, loud and filled with shouts and laughter inside.
She'd never been anywhere like it.
As her eyes roamed the small restaurant, she caught families joking with one other, children giggling, and adults talking openly.
Smiling unconsciously, Sakura closed her eyes and breathed in the smell of oregano and let her ears soak up the noisy surroundings. The place was so lively; it sent a warm sensation through her veins.
"Sakura!"
She was in heaven. As a child, this had been all she ever wanted.
"Sakura!"
Dazedly, she opened her eyes at the brief touch on her shoulder. Blinking once, she realized that she wasn't a child anymore. Remembering where she was, and what she came here to do brought her back to reality. as did seeing the man in front of her.
"It's so noisy in here," The man began to walk as he held onto her wrist, half dragging her to his table at the quieter end of the eatery. "I take it you didn't hear me."
Sakura stared up at him. Yes, this was reality all right, she thought to herself. Zing Cheng was real enough. He was wearing a black suit that matched his equally black hair, which was groomed neatly and very tidily.
A smile touched his lips as he watched Sakura study him. "I don't think you heard me that time either."
"Pardon me?"
He laughed. "I was calling you earlier, and you didn't seem to hear me."
"Oh." Sakura felt her cheeks flush from embarrassment. "It's really loud in here." And I was daydreaming.
"No kidding." She really was adorable, with her rosy cheeks. He couldn't seem to remember the last time he had dated a woman that could still blush. It must have been high school.
"Have you been waiting long?" Sakura asked, thinking of something to say to get the conversation rolling. The sooner they talked, the sooner she could leave.
"Not that long." He gave her a sincere smile. "I'm glad you're taking the time to get back to my message and coming out to talk on such short notice."
Her answer was in her smile.
Cheng slid her a menu. "Would you like something to eat first?"
She had already eaten a little before she left the mansion and didn't plan on eating, just talking. "I'm fine, thank you." She replied politely.
"Are you sure?" He browsed his copy of the menu and handed another to her before she was able to answer.
Absently, Sakura picked up the menu and glanced at the bright, vivid pictures on its cover.
"My treat," Zing peaked at her through the top of his menu. "Personally, I think it's the best Italian cuisine in all of China."
No doubt he's been all over China, probably all over the world and sailed the seven seas as well, Sakura thought to herself, with a twinge of envy. But he has earned it, and that was what was most important. "I've never really tried Italian food before." She admitted, and looked up to see his reaction.
He raised his brows. "Really?"
"Yes." Sakura placed her menu back onto the table with a feminine grace. She knew what was in store for her now; a river full of pity would be headed her way, sweeping her into the ocean.
"I don't think you should have told me that," He gave her a grin. "Now I must insist that you try something."
Sakura laughed. "No wonder you're a lawyer!"
Her laughter was pure, like nothing he had ever heard. "Will you order something now?" He asked softly.
"Alright," She smiled. "Just a little something."
Cheng placed their orders and the two ate in the midst of the surrounding laughter and noise.
He watched her as she took slow spoonfuls of the noodles. She had been telling the truth; she had not tried Italian in her life. "You like?"
Sakura picked up the napkin and wiped the red sauce from the corner of her lips. "It was heavenly." She pushed back her empty plate. "I've never had anything like it."
He laughed. "So you've told me."
Feeling comfortable with her adversary seated across the table with her, she decided to make her move. And why should she be in such a hurry anyway? She wasn't and wouldn't allow herself to be intimidated by him. "What did you want to talk about?"
Amused at her bluntness, Cheng smiled. "Getting anywhere?"
"No where in particular." She gave him her sweetest of smiles, realizing he was referring to the case. He was wrong if he thought she was inexperienced enough to not know what she was doing and tell him anything.
"Well," He drawled, deliberately misunderstanding her. "Court is in session in a few days."
"So it is."
He stared into her pools of deep green; there was a glint of mischief sparking in them. It was the look of a child planning to spit into his teacher's coffee mug.
"Do you believe Jin-Jin Chin is what is best for Mei-Fa?"
"If I didn't," He eyed her with amusement. "Do you think I would have taken the job?"
Seeing the devious twinkle in his dark brown eyes, and the trace of sarcasm in his answer, Sakura frowned.
Cheng leaned back in his chair as his brows lifted up. She was like a little girl stuck in a fairytale. "Truthfully Sakura," His voice was soft and patronizing. "I'm sure a grown woman such as yourself realizes by now that honest pursuits are a waste of valuable time."
"What are you saying?" Sakura's voice was softer than his.
The man shrugged his shoulders. "It's how it works, Sakura." He said. "Especially in our line of work, I know you understand, and you're new at this. But I am certain you will catch on."
Sakura understood fully what he was saying. She had heard of lawyers like him, ones that lied, cheated and abused their status to get what they wanted. "Why did you become a lawyer, Cheng?" She asked quietly and calmly.
Somewhat surprised at her question, he found himself at a loss for words. Which practically and almost certainly never, ever happened.
A small smile spread itself on Sakura's lips. "I became a lawyer to help people." She explained when he remained quiet. "Initially, I had wanted to become a doctor," A little laugh escaped. "But I faint at the sight of blood, which would have been a very bad thing had I chosen that line of work."
Cheng watched her she continued her story.
"Ms. Elena gave me some suggestions when she saw how distressed I was. I guess I looked pretty gloomy moping around here and there. I really had my heart set out on becoming a doctor, there were so many sick children, many younger than me at that time." She paused and saw Cheng's confusion. "I grew up in an orphanage." Her voice held no shame.
"What was it like?" He asked impulsively, it seemed that she was drawing him towards the conversation against his own will. One of the most dangerous qualities an attorney could possess.
Sakura assumed he was asking her about the foster home that she grew up in. "Let's just say you were never with privacy. Contrary to popular belief, it's not as bad as it is portrayed on movies or television." She smiled, amusedly.
"I'm an only child."
"In a way, I sort of am too." She offered.
Cheng's expression softened. "You have this way of speaking to people, Sakura. I better be careful around you." Obviously she wasn't aware of her own talent, he watched her blink. "Anyway, my family has always been rich. All the males have become lawyers, it's only tradition."
"Oh." Sakura responded. "What about you? Did you want to become a lawyer?"
"My family doesn't work that way, Sakura." Cheng shifted in his chair, his eyes becoming an intense dark brown. "It doesn't matter what I want, it's what has always been done." Her eyes were locked with his. When she didn't reply, he grinned. "Plus the pay ain't at all bad."
"Then what did you want to do?" She asked gently.
Cheng hesitated before responding. "Never had much time to think about that." He lied.
"It's okay." Sakura smiled and started to get up from her seat. "Thanks for the meal, I've never had anything quite like it." On impulse, she stuck out her right hand.
Still wondering what she meant by her first words, he absently reached out his hand to shake hers, a little amused at her eagerness.
"I'm sort of glad I faint at the sight of blood." She gave him a jaunty smile as she dropped her hand to her side. "Good luck on the case, Mr. Cheng."
He raised his dark brows. "You too, Miss Kinomoto."
"You'll need it." Sakura laughed good-heartedly.
He watched as the young woman walked out of the door. "Somehow," He said quietly. "I don't doubt it."
***
"I've ordered the flowers, the food, new curtains," Yelan Li paused as she placed one elegant finger to her chin. "Yet, something seems to have slipped my mind."
"Mother!" An agitated Li ran his fingers through his thick mass of chestnut coloured hair. "You've been planning all day, I'm tired of running in and out my own home. In fact, I'm tired of sitting here and watching people run in and out of my own home." He slumped down on the nearest chair.
Yelan checked off another box on her long list of remaining objectives. "Xiao Lang," She looked up for the first time. "It isn't as if you would do any of this, son."
"I wouldn't waste my time throwing some stupid party for people I have no real intention of getting to know any better."
"Ah, that is just the problem."
Li waited for his mother to continue. "Yah?"
"Do you think these curtains are suitable enough, Xiao Lang?" In her arms she carried a large piece of silk fabric.
"Forget the curtains," Li groaned. "What problem?"
"Yes," Yelan smiled. "These curtains will work wonderfully." Check.
"Wait a minute," Li narrowed his eyes. "I know where you were headed."
The woman smiled. "Then you agree?"
"I don't need, nor want a wife, mother."
She frowned. "You only learn from past experiences, my son. You will need a wife soon enough. When you meet the right young lady, and when you do, I only hope you have enough sense in that stubborn head of yours to hold on to her before she slips away." Yelan gave her son a hard look and continued. "If you had a wife, you would not even need to worry on meddlesome tasks like this. We love this stuff."
One corner of his mouth lit up. His mother could be so old-fashioned at times.
She shook her head at his grin. "Now, how about these flowers?" Yelan moved with gracefulness as she carried the handful of tulips into the next room.
Li sighed and frowned to himself. "Stupid banquet." He muttered. An annual banquet was held every year, it was sort of a party for all the cooperate top dogs to attend. The truth was, he never really bothered to socialize with any of his rivals, let along his business partners. He would attend every year, but only because it was expected of him. While there, he would linger by a dark empty corner, stay for as shortest of time possible, and then hightail it out of there without a care in the world.
This year would be different.
His mother had volunteered to play hostess for the stupid party this year. His own home was to be the vessel for the tedious activity. And to think she had the nerve to blame him! Well, it wasn't really his fault the first love of his life was nothing but a shallow, flirty gold digger, was it? No. Not love; lust. There was a difference. He probably wouldn't ever fall in love, now that he really thought about it. And no one would ever love him for him, how could they when they never really looked underneath everything. He represented money, wealth, and connections. Yes, only the truly lucky ones love and are loved.
"Would you like any help with that?" A female voice asked.
"Here, take them." The man pushed the boxes into her arms.
The sweet voice tugged him out of his thoughts. He even found enough energy to stand up.
"What's in here?" The voice was muffled from behind a few cardboard boxes. "They sure are heavy."
Hell, he suddenly managed to summon enough energy to stride towards the front door.
"Beats me," The dusty deliveryman chewed on his gum and dug into his overalls for the bill. "You guys ordered it, not me."
Sakura wavered as she entered the door of the Li mansion and kept walking rapidly to keep the boxes from tumbling over.
"Hey!" Li stood his ground as the boxes slammed into his chest. "Hell, what has my mother ordered now?"
"Oh!" Sakura tried to sneak a glance around the boxes. "Li! Are you okay? I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to slam into you."
"Sakura."
"If you'll just move, I'll have everything under control again." She tried to take hold of the boxes again, but Li was in the way. Actually, he was the one carrying them in his arms now, not her.
"Sakura," He tightened his hands on the boxes and frowned. "What are you doing carrying all this junk?"
"Actually," Sakura crossed her arms, not liking his tone and caring even less for his frown. "I'm no longer carrying them. And I apologized for bumping into you, Li. So, if you'll kindly let go of the boxes, I'll finish putting them away."
He raised his brows, wanting to laugh and strangle her at the same time. "This isn't your job." He set the boxes on the floor and started out the door.
"I was giving that gentleman a hand!" She followed after him. "Where are you going now?" She stopped beside Li, who was now standing face to face with the deliveryman.
His amber eyes radiated as he glared at the puffy faced, short man. "This your gentleman?"
"I'm sure he appreciated my help, Li. You can stop staring at him like that now."
"I have no idea how the lady came to the conclusion you were a gentleman, but I can assure you that you are anything but." He towered over the man with his height and intense eyes. "Now, if you cherish your limbs, you'll apologize to her this very minute."
Horrified at Li's rudeness, Sakura glared back at him. "I offered to help him, Li." She said through clenched teeth. "Isn't that right, sir?"
The overweight man hesitated.
Li's eyes burned into him.
"Terribly sorry, ma'am. It was very ungentlemanyly of me to have passed you those boxes like that."
"Oh, for goodness sak-"
"Shoved." Li's voice was dangerously soft. "You shoved the boxes at her if I recall."
"Shoved." He swallowed.
"Now leave, don't let me see you again."
"Yes sir." With lightning speed, the man leaped into his huge truck and sped off.
Li grinned, satisfied. He turned around and went back inside. It would be any second now..
"Li Syaoran!"
Ah, it was like music to his ears.
"Why did you do that?" She demanded, her hands on her hips. "You embarrassed him, that was incredibly rude of you."
"Princess," He watched her face. "The man had the manners of a wild boar."
A slight smile appeared on her lips. "He's worked all day, he was probably just tired."
"Always the guardian angel."
"What's that suppose to mean?"
He kind of liked the way she was following him. "It means what it implies." He sank into the luxurious sofa, testing a certain something.
She stopped in front of him, standing and glaring at him with those pretty green pools.
Aw, damn.
"If he ever comes back, do you promise to apologize to him?" Her hands were rested on her hips.
She sounded so sincere; it was hard to keep from laughing. "I think it's safe to say he won't be back anytime soon."
"Then you promise?" She looked skeptical.
"He won't be back."
"He might."
"I doubt it."
"Not only is he successful," Sakura lifted both her brows. "But he's also psychic!"
He chuckled at her obvious sarcasm.
Sakura sighed and placed her palm to her forehead. "Every woman's dream."
He grinned. "You go too far, ma'am, but alright, it's a promise." He supposed it was worth it to see her smile at him for the first time today.
"Thank you." She turned her attention to several boxes around the room. "You're moving?"
"I wish." He replied. "My mother's hosting this banquet for the cooperate world." He made a face.
"What's wrong with that?" Sakura brightened. "It sounds like fun." She suddenly had the image of a grand ball.
"If you call socializing with a bunch of shallow snobs fun."
"I bet they're not all like that."
"Of course they're not all like that."
"See?" Sakura smiled. "I'll bet a lot of them are really worldly, and very classy."
He saw the stars in her eyes and decided to keep his cynical comment to himself. "You want to come then?" It sounded more like a demand then an invitation.
She was looking at him as if he had grown horns on the side of his head.
"I mean," He stammered. "You-don't-have-to-if-you-don't-want-to." He amended quickly. He seemed to have developed quite the irritating habit of babbling whenever he was around her. His sisters would have a fit if they could only see him now.
"Oh no," She shook her head; she hadn't meant to offend him. "It's not that, it's just. Well, do you think it's allowed?"
"Allowed?"
"Yes." She agreed lamely. "I wouldn't want to embarrass you, Li."
"Embarrass me?" He raised a brow. "How could you possibly embarrass anybody?" He didn't let her reply. "It's my banquet, after all. Of course it's allowed."
She smiled.
"And besides," He added. "It wouldn't have mattered anyway."
Sakura gave him a look. "Of course it matters, I mean, I'm not exactly in the same class as you, Li."
"And I don't give a damn, Princess."
"After all, you're on of the most respected people I've ever met." Her hands were behind her back and she had started to pace. "No, I won't let them talk about you."
"You are a stubborn little thing." He grinned. "But I'll have you know, I've never cared for anyone's opinion of me."
"I know how cruel society can be an-"
"Sakura?"
"Hmm?"
"Screw society."
Sakura's green eyes widened and shined with laughter. She started to laugh. "Li!"
"Then you'll come with me?"
"Yes, Li." Her eyes sparkled. "Consider it a date."
"My thoughts exactly, your highness."
A light pink stained her soft cheeks. Sakura gave him one last smile and ran upstairs.
He couldn't help but do the same as he watched. He couldn't remember the last time he felt such a sense of contentment. Well, almost. If she called him 'Li' one more time, he would surely explode.
***
"Will you be needing this gift wrapped, ma'am?"
"Sure," The dark-haired woman handed the young female clerk the handy credit card. "Why not? Charge it on this."
"No problem," The clerk smiled widely as she reached for the wrapping supplies. "Is this for your daughter, ma'am?"
The woman's brown eyes glanced at the teddy bear she had carelessly picked up on the nearest shelf. "It's her birthday," She lied easily with a fake smile.
"That's wonderful!" The clerk beamed. "How old will she be? What's her favourite colour? Would you like me to wrap it in pink? All little girls love pink."
She frowned at the eager clerk's rapid fire of questions. "Just wrap it in pink, okay?"
"Of course," She wasn't deterred by the woman's frank attitude. "How about a bow? Ribbon? What colour do you think goes well with pink? Yellow? A bright yellow!"
She ignored the mindless chatter, and glanced impatiently at her watch.
"Here you are, ma'am." The girl handed the fancy box to consumer. "Wish your daughter a happy birthday for me!" She waved dramatically as the woman turned her back and left the toy store.
Using her hand, she brushed back her hair and put on a pair of designer sunglasses as she opened the door to her expensive sports car. She thrust the box in the backseat and adjusted her mirror to see her own reflection.
"You'll be mine soon enough." The tires squealed as she pulled out of the parking lot with speed. "Sorry Cheng," She grinned. "It's not that I don't trust you, but there's too much at stake."
She stopped at the red light and pulled out a small phone. After dialling the number, a male voice answered.
"Li."
Damn. She flipped the phone off and frowned. "Not today, but definitely tomorrow. You'll be mine then."
***
Consider it a date!?
Consider it a date!?!
Sakura Kinomoto buried her face into a pillow. "What on earth were you thinking?" She sat up. "Way to take Meiling's advice, Sakura." She sighed.
Way to keep the plan foolproof.
There was just something about Li Syaoran that she was attracted to. She'd never felt such a strong force about anybody before. Why Li? He was clearly still fuming from whatever it was he had with Chin.
But he wasn't a bad guy at all. Sakura smiled as she walked over to her desk. He cared about people. If he didn't, would his daughter admire him so much? She blinked when she realized that he had come to her rescue with the deliveryman. Even if he was a little rude. It dawned on her that he was rude because of the way she was treated.
Like a Knight in Shining Armour.
Where'd that come from? She wondered. She'd never thought of anything so absurd before.
With another whimsical sigh, Sakura slipped on her dark rimmed glasses and did what she always did when she was distracted. She did what she enjoyed the most. Her work.
Too bad her work was getting a little too personal.
***
"What are you grinning about?" Eriol narrowed his brows.
"Mind your own business, Hiiragizawa."
"You look sort of different." The blue-eyed man grinned. "You're not your usual grumpy self."
"You think so?"
"Don't get me wrong," Eriol raised his hands. "It's a nice change."
"Always happy to please."
"Oh, well, that's more like it." He kept the same evil grin on his face. "Found a lover?"
"Screw off."
Eriol laughed wholeheartedly. "Do I know her?"
"I'm taking Sakura to the banquet." Deep down, he admired Eriol Hiiragizawa; admired him enough to confide in him.
"Are you now?" Eriol slapped his shoulder. "I knew you possessed some ounce of intelligence in that small head of yours."
"How I envy your wit."
"Yah, well," He smiled. "And how is your girl doing?"
My girl. Li smiled unconsciously. "She accepted my invitation." He bragged unknowingly.
His dark blue eyes rolled heavenward. "I meant the case."
"I suspect everything is fine," Li replied. "Then again, she hasn't spoken to me of it since a while ago. She would have come to me if she had any problems, I would think."
"Don't be so sure of that," Eriol wiped his glasses on his shirt. "Sakura's an independent woman, at least from what I've seen." When Li did not reply, he continued. "Have you thought of the outcomes of the case?"
Li remained still, his dark amber eyes watching his friend's face.
"Well, at any rate," Eriol announced. "I'm sure our Sakura will do her best."
"I know she will." Li's voice was almost too soft to hear.
"If she doesn't win." Eriol directed his gaze to the window. "What will you do?"
Li's attention was also focused on the window. The bright, warm sun was out. After a moment of silence, he returned his gaze to Eriol's. "That's to be said."
Eriol frowned. "You won't regret it, will you?"
Li clenched his fists, anger suddenly boiling up in him. "I thought you knew me much better than that, Hiiragizawa." His voice was once again dangerously soft.
Eriol grinned. "Just testing."
"No matter what happens," Li declared, still fuming at the ludicrous suggestion. "I will never regret meeting Sakura."
Eriol Hiiragizawa was satisfied.
To be continued.
I am happy to say that the trial will commence in a couple of chapters. Hurray. I need to thank you all for being as patient as you always are. And don't worry, the layout for chapter thirteen is already in progress. That should be good news, as I usually think as I type. Which is the major reason why my chapters take so long. =P Tell me what you think, and I do give out notifications. =) Just leave your addy, and I'll drop you a line when I update. Thanks, once more. -Ash
Hmm, it looks like a update.
Trial of Fate
By AshN
Chapter Twelve
Hey everybody. If you haven't taken notice, I seem to be a conniving, sneaky little liar. But here are my deepest of thanks:
LiLV13TaNhDaO: I know, it takes me such a long time to update. x.x But I am estatic that you enjoyed it.
CCS fic Reader: Hey. I don't think I've seen you in a while, or is it my darn memory once again? Bah, I'm getting old. School kind so started, so yah. =P But yes, 'crucial' turning point. J Thank you, and my apologies for the really late update. =X
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Okay, now that that's done.. Onto the actual story. x.x
"This must be the place." A pair of deep green eyes glanced up at the fancy sign of the Italian restaurant. "Sakura, there really is no point being nervous." She scolded herself. The auburn haired woman took a deep breath, shook her head at her own nervousness and reached for the door.
It was warm, loud and filled with shouts and laughter inside.
She'd never been anywhere like it.
As her eyes roamed the small restaurant, she caught families joking with one other, children giggling, and adults talking openly.
Smiling unconsciously, Sakura closed her eyes and breathed in the smell of oregano and let her ears soak up the noisy surroundings. The place was so lively; it sent a warm sensation through her veins.
"Sakura!"
She was in heaven. As a child, this had been all she ever wanted.
"Sakura!"
Dazedly, she opened her eyes at the brief touch on her shoulder. Blinking once, she realized that she wasn't a child anymore. Remembering where she was, and what she came here to do brought her back to reality. as did seeing the man in front of her.
"It's so noisy in here," The man began to walk as he held onto her wrist, half dragging her to his table at the quieter end of the eatery. "I take it you didn't hear me."
Sakura stared up at him. Yes, this was reality all right, she thought to herself. Zing Cheng was real enough. He was wearing a black suit that matched his equally black hair, which was groomed neatly and very tidily.
A smile touched his lips as he watched Sakura study him. "I don't think you heard me that time either."
"Pardon me?"
He laughed. "I was calling you earlier, and you didn't seem to hear me."
"Oh." Sakura felt her cheeks flush from embarrassment. "It's really loud in here." And I was daydreaming.
"No kidding." She really was adorable, with her rosy cheeks. He couldn't seem to remember the last time he had dated a woman that could still blush. It must have been high school.
"Have you been waiting long?" Sakura asked, thinking of something to say to get the conversation rolling. The sooner they talked, the sooner she could leave.
"Not that long." He gave her a sincere smile. "I'm glad you're taking the time to get back to my message and coming out to talk on such short notice."
Her answer was in her smile.
Cheng slid her a menu. "Would you like something to eat first?"
She had already eaten a little before she left the mansion and didn't plan on eating, just talking. "I'm fine, thank you." She replied politely.
"Are you sure?" He browsed his copy of the menu and handed another to her before she was able to answer.
Absently, Sakura picked up the menu and glanced at the bright, vivid pictures on its cover.
"My treat," Zing peaked at her through the top of his menu. "Personally, I think it's the best Italian cuisine in all of China."
No doubt he's been all over China, probably all over the world and sailed the seven seas as well, Sakura thought to herself, with a twinge of envy. But he has earned it, and that was what was most important. "I've never really tried Italian food before." She admitted, and looked up to see his reaction.
He raised his brows. "Really?"
"Yes." Sakura placed her menu back onto the table with a feminine grace. She knew what was in store for her now; a river full of pity would be headed her way, sweeping her into the ocean.
"I don't think you should have told me that," He gave her a grin. "Now I must insist that you try something."
Sakura laughed. "No wonder you're a lawyer!"
Her laughter was pure, like nothing he had ever heard. "Will you order something now?" He asked softly.
"Alright," She smiled. "Just a little something."
Cheng placed their orders and the two ate in the midst of the surrounding laughter and noise.
He watched her as she took slow spoonfuls of the noodles. She had been telling the truth; she had not tried Italian in her life. "You like?"
Sakura picked up the napkin and wiped the red sauce from the corner of her lips. "It was heavenly." She pushed back her empty plate. "I've never had anything like it."
He laughed. "So you've told me."
Feeling comfortable with her adversary seated across the table with her, she decided to make her move. And why should she be in such a hurry anyway? She wasn't and wouldn't allow herself to be intimidated by him. "What did you want to talk about?"
Amused at her bluntness, Cheng smiled. "Getting anywhere?"
"No where in particular." She gave him her sweetest of smiles, realizing he was referring to the case. He was wrong if he thought she was inexperienced enough to not know what she was doing and tell him anything.
"Well," He drawled, deliberately misunderstanding her. "Court is in session in a few days."
"So it is."
He stared into her pools of deep green; there was a glint of mischief sparking in them. It was the look of a child planning to spit into his teacher's coffee mug.
"Do you believe Jin-Jin Chin is what is best for Mei-Fa?"
"If I didn't," He eyed her with amusement. "Do you think I would have taken the job?"
Seeing the devious twinkle in his dark brown eyes, and the trace of sarcasm in his answer, Sakura frowned.
Cheng leaned back in his chair as his brows lifted up. She was like a little girl stuck in a fairytale. "Truthfully Sakura," His voice was soft and patronizing. "I'm sure a grown woman such as yourself realizes by now that honest pursuits are a waste of valuable time."
"What are you saying?" Sakura's voice was softer than his.
The man shrugged his shoulders. "It's how it works, Sakura." He said. "Especially in our line of work, I know you understand, and you're new at this. But I am certain you will catch on."
Sakura understood fully what he was saying. She had heard of lawyers like him, ones that lied, cheated and abused their status to get what they wanted. "Why did you become a lawyer, Cheng?" She asked quietly and calmly.
Somewhat surprised at her question, he found himself at a loss for words. Which practically and almost certainly never, ever happened.
A small smile spread itself on Sakura's lips. "I became a lawyer to help people." She explained when he remained quiet. "Initially, I had wanted to become a doctor," A little laugh escaped. "But I faint at the sight of blood, which would have been a very bad thing had I chosen that line of work."
Cheng watched her she continued her story.
"Ms. Elena gave me some suggestions when she saw how distressed I was. I guess I looked pretty gloomy moping around here and there. I really had my heart set out on becoming a doctor, there were so many sick children, many younger than me at that time." She paused and saw Cheng's confusion. "I grew up in an orphanage." Her voice held no shame.
"What was it like?" He asked impulsively, it seemed that she was drawing him towards the conversation against his own will. One of the most dangerous qualities an attorney could possess.
Sakura assumed he was asking her about the foster home that she grew up in. "Let's just say you were never with privacy. Contrary to popular belief, it's not as bad as it is portrayed on movies or television." She smiled, amusedly.
"I'm an only child."
"In a way, I sort of am too." She offered.
Cheng's expression softened. "You have this way of speaking to people, Sakura. I better be careful around you." Obviously she wasn't aware of her own talent, he watched her blink. "Anyway, my family has always been rich. All the males have become lawyers, it's only tradition."
"Oh." Sakura responded. "What about you? Did you want to become a lawyer?"
"My family doesn't work that way, Sakura." Cheng shifted in his chair, his eyes becoming an intense dark brown. "It doesn't matter what I want, it's what has always been done." Her eyes were locked with his. When she didn't reply, he grinned. "Plus the pay ain't at all bad."
"Then what did you want to do?" She asked gently.
Cheng hesitated before responding. "Never had much time to think about that." He lied.
"It's okay." Sakura smiled and started to get up from her seat. "Thanks for the meal, I've never had anything quite like it." On impulse, she stuck out her right hand.
Still wondering what she meant by her first words, he absently reached out his hand to shake hers, a little amused at her eagerness.
"I'm sort of glad I faint at the sight of blood." She gave him a jaunty smile as she dropped her hand to her side. "Good luck on the case, Mr. Cheng."
He raised his dark brows. "You too, Miss Kinomoto."
"You'll need it." Sakura laughed good-heartedly.
He watched as the young woman walked out of the door. "Somehow," He said quietly. "I don't doubt it."
***
"I've ordered the flowers, the food, new curtains," Yelan Li paused as she placed one elegant finger to her chin. "Yet, something seems to have slipped my mind."
"Mother!" An agitated Li ran his fingers through his thick mass of chestnut coloured hair. "You've been planning all day, I'm tired of running in and out my own home. In fact, I'm tired of sitting here and watching people run in and out of my own home." He slumped down on the nearest chair.
Yelan checked off another box on her long list of remaining objectives. "Xiao Lang," She looked up for the first time. "It isn't as if you would do any of this, son."
"I wouldn't waste my time throwing some stupid party for people I have no real intention of getting to know any better."
"Ah, that is just the problem."
Li waited for his mother to continue. "Yah?"
"Do you think these curtains are suitable enough, Xiao Lang?" In her arms she carried a large piece of silk fabric.
"Forget the curtains," Li groaned. "What problem?"
"Yes," Yelan smiled. "These curtains will work wonderfully." Check.
"Wait a minute," Li narrowed his eyes. "I know where you were headed."
The woman smiled. "Then you agree?"
"I don't need, nor want a wife, mother."
She frowned. "You only learn from past experiences, my son. You will need a wife soon enough. When you meet the right young lady, and when you do, I only hope you have enough sense in that stubborn head of yours to hold on to her before she slips away." Yelan gave her son a hard look and continued. "If you had a wife, you would not even need to worry on meddlesome tasks like this. We love this stuff."
One corner of his mouth lit up. His mother could be so old-fashioned at times.
She shook her head at his grin. "Now, how about these flowers?" Yelan moved with gracefulness as she carried the handful of tulips into the next room.
Li sighed and frowned to himself. "Stupid banquet." He muttered. An annual banquet was held every year, it was sort of a party for all the cooperate top dogs to attend. The truth was, he never really bothered to socialize with any of his rivals, let along his business partners. He would attend every year, but only because it was expected of him. While there, he would linger by a dark empty corner, stay for as shortest of time possible, and then hightail it out of there without a care in the world.
This year would be different.
His mother had volunteered to play hostess for the stupid party this year. His own home was to be the vessel for the tedious activity. And to think she had the nerve to blame him! Well, it wasn't really his fault the first love of his life was nothing but a shallow, flirty gold digger, was it? No. Not love; lust. There was a difference. He probably wouldn't ever fall in love, now that he really thought about it. And no one would ever love him for him, how could they when they never really looked underneath everything. He represented money, wealth, and connections. Yes, only the truly lucky ones love and are loved.
"Would you like any help with that?" A female voice asked.
"Here, take them." The man pushed the boxes into her arms.
The sweet voice tugged him out of his thoughts. He even found enough energy to stand up.
"What's in here?" The voice was muffled from behind a few cardboard boxes. "They sure are heavy."
Hell, he suddenly managed to summon enough energy to stride towards the front door.
"Beats me," The dusty deliveryman chewed on his gum and dug into his overalls for the bill. "You guys ordered it, not me."
Sakura wavered as she entered the door of the Li mansion and kept walking rapidly to keep the boxes from tumbling over.
"Hey!" Li stood his ground as the boxes slammed into his chest. "Hell, what has my mother ordered now?"
"Oh!" Sakura tried to sneak a glance around the boxes. "Li! Are you okay? I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to slam into you."
"Sakura."
"If you'll just move, I'll have everything under control again." She tried to take hold of the boxes again, but Li was in the way. Actually, he was the one carrying them in his arms now, not her.
"Sakura," He tightened his hands on the boxes and frowned. "What are you doing carrying all this junk?"
"Actually," Sakura crossed her arms, not liking his tone and caring even less for his frown. "I'm no longer carrying them. And I apologized for bumping into you, Li. So, if you'll kindly let go of the boxes, I'll finish putting them away."
He raised his brows, wanting to laugh and strangle her at the same time. "This isn't your job." He set the boxes on the floor and started out the door.
"I was giving that gentleman a hand!" She followed after him. "Where are you going now?" She stopped beside Li, who was now standing face to face with the deliveryman.
His amber eyes radiated as he glared at the puffy faced, short man. "This your gentleman?"
"I'm sure he appreciated my help, Li. You can stop staring at him like that now."
"I have no idea how the lady came to the conclusion you were a gentleman, but I can assure you that you are anything but." He towered over the man with his height and intense eyes. "Now, if you cherish your limbs, you'll apologize to her this very minute."
Horrified at Li's rudeness, Sakura glared back at him. "I offered to help him, Li." She said through clenched teeth. "Isn't that right, sir?"
The overweight man hesitated.
Li's eyes burned into him.
"Terribly sorry, ma'am. It was very ungentlemanyly of me to have passed you those boxes like that."
"Oh, for goodness sak-"
"Shoved." Li's voice was dangerously soft. "You shoved the boxes at her if I recall."
"Shoved." He swallowed.
"Now leave, don't let me see you again."
"Yes sir." With lightning speed, the man leaped into his huge truck and sped off.
Li grinned, satisfied. He turned around and went back inside. It would be any second now..
"Li Syaoran!"
Ah, it was like music to his ears.
"Why did you do that?" She demanded, her hands on her hips. "You embarrassed him, that was incredibly rude of you."
"Princess," He watched her face. "The man had the manners of a wild boar."
A slight smile appeared on her lips. "He's worked all day, he was probably just tired."
"Always the guardian angel."
"What's that suppose to mean?"
He kind of liked the way she was following him. "It means what it implies." He sank into the luxurious sofa, testing a certain something.
She stopped in front of him, standing and glaring at him with those pretty green pools.
Aw, damn.
"If he ever comes back, do you promise to apologize to him?" Her hands were rested on her hips.
She sounded so sincere; it was hard to keep from laughing. "I think it's safe to say he won't be back anytime soon."
"Then you promise?" She looked skeptical.
"He won't be back."
"He might."
"I doubt it."
"Not only is he successful," Sakura lifted both her brows. "But he's also psychic!"
He chuckled at her obvious sarcasm.
Sakura sighed and placed her palm to her forehead. "Every woman's dream."
He grinned. "You go too far, ma'am, but alright, it's a promise." He supposed it was worth it to see her smile at him for the first time today.
"Thank you." She turned her attention to several boxes around the room. "You're moving?"
"I wish." He replied. "My mother's hosting this banquet for the cooperate world." He made a face.
"What's wrong with that?" Sakura brightened. "It sounds like fun." She suddenly had the image of a grand ball.
"If you call socializing with a bunch of shallow snobs fun."
"I bet they're not all like that."
"Of course they're not all like that."
"See?" Sakura smiled. "I'll bet a lot of them are really worldly, and very classy."
He saw the stars in her eyes and decided to keep his cynical comment to himself. "You want to come then?" It sounded more like a demand then an invitation.
She was looking at him as if he had grown horns on the side of his head.
"I mean," He stammered. "You-don't-have-to-if-you-don't-want-to." He amended quickly. He seemed to have developed quite the irritating habit of babbling whenever he was around her. His sisters would have a fit if they could only see him now.
"Oh no," She shook her head; she hadn't meant to offend him. "It's not that, it's just. Well, do you think it's allowed?"
"Allowed?"
"Yes." She agreed lamely. "I wouldn't want to embarrass you, Li."
"Embarrass me?" He raised a brow. "How could you possibly embarrass anybody?" He didn't let her reply. "It's my banquet, after all. Of course it's allowed."
She smiled.
"And besides," He added. "It wouldn't have mattered anyway."
Sakura gave him a look. "Of course it matters, I mean, I'm not exactly in the same class as you, Li."
"And I don't give a damn, Princess."
"After all, you're on of the most respected people I've ever met." Her hands were behind her back and she had started to pace. "No, I won't let them talk about you."
"You are a stubborn little thing." He grinned. "But I'll have you know, I've never cared for anyone's opinion of me."
"I know how cruel society can be an-"
"Sakura?"
"Hmm?"
"Screw society."
Sakura's green eyes widened and shined with laughter. She started to laugh. "Li!"
"Then you'll come with me?"
"Yes, Li." Her eyes sparkled. "Consider it a date."
"My thoughts exactly, your highness."
A light pink stained her soft cheeks. Sakura gave him one last smile and ran upstairs.
He couldn't help but do the same as he watched. He couldn't remember the last time he felt such a sense of contentment. Well, almost. If she called him 'Li' one more time, he would surely explode.
***
"Will you be needing this gift wrapped, ma'am?"
"Sure," The dark-haired woman handed the young female clerk the handy credit card. "Why not? Charge it on this."
"No problem," The clerk smiled widely as she reached for the wrapping supplies. "Is this for your daughter, ma'am?"
The woman's brown eyes glanced at the teddy bear she had carelessly picked up on the nearest shelf. "It's her birthday," She lied easily with a fake smile.
"That's wonderful!" The clerk beamed. "How old will she be? What's her favourite colour? Would you like me to wrap it in pink? All little girls love pink."
She frowned at the eager clerk's rapid fire of questions. "Just wrap it in pink, okay?"
"Of course," She wasn't deterred by the woman's frank attitude. "How about a bow? Ribbon? What colour do you think goes well with pink? Yellow? A bright yellow!"
She ignored the mindless chatter, and glanced impatiently at her watch.
"Here you are, ma'am." The girl handed the fancy box to consumer. "Wish your daughter a happy birthday for me!" She waved dramatically as the woman turned her back and left the toy store.
Using her hand, she brushed back her hair and put on a pair of designer sunglasses as she opened the door to her expensive sports car. She thrust the box in the backseat and adjusted her mirror to see her own reflection.
"You'll be mine soon enough." The tires squealed as she pulled out of the parking lot with speed. "Sorry Cheng," She grinned. "It's not that I don't trust you, but there's too much at stake."
She stopped at the red light and pulled out a small phone. After dialling the number, a male voice answered.
"Li."
Damn. She flipped the phone off and frowned. "Not today, but definitely tomorrow. You'll be mine then."
***
Consider it a date!?
Consider it a date!?!
Sakura Kinomoto buried her face into a pillow. "What on earth were you thinking?" She sat up. "Way to take Meiling's advice, Sakura." She sighed.
Way to keep the plan foolproof.
There was just something about Li Syaoran that she was attracted to. She'd never felt such a strong force about anybody before. Why Li? He was clearly still fuming from whatever it was he had with Chin.
But he wasn't a bad guy at all. Sakura smiled as she walked over to her desk. He cared about people. If he didn't, would his daughter admire him so much? She blinked when she realized that he had come to her rescue with the deliveryman. Even if he was a little rude. It dawned on her that he was rude because of the way she was treated.
Like a Knight in Shining Armour.
Where'd that come from? She wondered. She'd never thought of anything so absurd before.
With another whimsical sigh, Sakura slipped on her dark rimmed glasses and did what she always did when she was distracted. She did what she enjoyed the most. Her work.
Too bad her work was getting a little too personal.
***
"What are you grinning about?" Eriol narrowed his brows.
"Mind your own business, Hiiragizawa."
"You look sort of different." The blue-eyed man grinned. "You're not your usual grumpy self."
"You think so?"
"Don't get me wrong," Eriol raised his hands. "It's a nice change."
"Always happy to please."
"Oh, well, that's more like it." He kept the same evil grin on his face. "Found a lover?"
"Screw off."
Eriol laughed wholeheartedly. "Do I know her?"
"I'm taking Sakura to the banquet." Deep down, he admired Eriol Hiiragizawa; admired him enough to confide in him.
"Are you now?" Eriol slapped his shoulder. "I knew you possessed some ounce of intelligence in that small head of yours."
"How I envy your wit."
"Yah, well," He smiled. "And how is your girl doing?"
My girl. Li smiled unconsciously. "She accepted my invitation." He bragged unknowingly.
His dark blue eyes rolled heavenward. "I meant the case."
"I suspect everything is fine," Li replied. "Then again, she hasn't spoken to me of it since a while ago. She would have come to me if she had any problems, I would think."
"Don't be so sure of that," Eriol wiped his glasses on his shirt. "Sakura's an independent woman, at least from what I've seen." When Li did not reply, he continued. "Have you thought of the outcomes of the case?"
Li remained still, his dark amber eyes watching his friend's face.
"Well, at any rate," Eriol announced. "I'm sure our Sakura will do her best."
"I know she will." Li's voice was almost too soft to hear.
"If she doesn't win." Eriol directed his gaze to the window. "What will you do?"
Li's attention was also focused on the window. The bright, warm sun was out. After a moment of silence, he returned his gaze to Eriol's. "That's to be said."
Eriol frowned. "You won't regret it, will you?"
Li clenched his fists, anger suddenly boiling up in him. "I thought you knew me much better than that, Hiiragizawa." His voice was once again dangerously soft.
Eriol grinned. "Just testing."
"No matter what happens," Li declared, still fuming at the ludicrous suggestion. "I will never regret meeting Sakura."
Eriol Hiiragizawa was satisfied.
To be continued.
I am happy to say that the trial will commence in a couple of chapters. Hurray. I need to thank you all for being as patient as you always are. And don't worry, the layout for chapter thirteen is already in progress. That should be good news, as I usually think as I type. Which is the major reason why my chapters take so long. =P Tell me what you think, and I do give out notifications. =) Just leave your addy, and I'll drop you a line when I update. Thanks, once more. -Ash