A/N: Hey, hi, hello! Thank you for those who reviewed! I've kept this story
going just for you! It took a while for me to update this chapter. Gomen
nasai ^_^*. Let's just say these next two chapters of the story are
anything but happiness (unless you take joy in pain). I might even change
the "PG" to "PG-13", just so you know. Okay, I've warned you! Have fun...
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If You're Not The One
Chapter 5
Best Friend's Betrayal
*After School*
Sakura was skating along the sidewalk as fast as she could go. 'Great! I can't believe I forgot my cheerleading outfit and pom-poms at home! And I have to be at school in less than fifteen minutes!!' Suddenly, a blue Altima honked at her. The window to the Altima rolled down slowly.
"Hop in!"
It was Eriol.
Sakura got in the car and took off her rollerblades. They both remained silent for about two minutes. Sakura finally got the courage to speak. "I have to go home..."
"That's where I'm taking you," Eriol replied.
"Oh."
The Altima turned to the left and sped down the neighborhood. Both of them were silent. Sakura looked out the window and sighed. Eriol kept his eyes on the road, but would glance at Sakura from time to time. Eriol parallel parked in front of Sakura's house. "I'll wait till you get your things-" Eriol began.
"Why are you doing this?" Sakura asked.
"What?"
"I said why are you doing this? I mean, last time I saw you, you wanted nothing to do with me. Why the sudden interest?"
Eriol looked down at his lap. "I dunno."
Sakura opened the car door, got out, and shut it behind her. She ran quickly inside and a few seconds later, she ran out with a bag (A/N: With her cheerleading outfit and pom-poms inside it). She jumped into the car. Eriol made a u-turn and they drove out of the neighborhood.
Five minutes later, Eriol was parked in front of the school. Sakura grabbed her things and said, "Thanks for the lift."
"Don't go," Eriol said. "There's something I want to tell you."
Sakura closed the door to the car. She looked into his eyes as he looked into hers. "Well, say it, I really need to get to practice."
Eriol sighed. "Sakura, I think you and I both know that I'm still in love with you." Sakura looked at him sadly. "And you and I both know," Eriol continued. "That you aren't in love with me. And what I said at Penguin Park two Friday's ago was true. It's hard to start over and be your friend when I know these feelings I have for you aren't gonna change anytime soon. I don't care who you date as long as you're happy." Eriol paused and looked down. "The thing is I thought I made you happy-"
"And you do, Eriol!" Sakura began.
"Let me finish!" Eriol interrupted. "I want you to be happy, even if it means being happy with someone else, but I can't pretend our relationship never happened. When you asked if we could be 'just friends', I figured I couldn't because when I'm around you, I wouldn't act like 'just a friend'. I'm not telling you all this to make you feel guilty. I just thought you should know why this is so hard for me."
Sakura continued to look into Eriol's eyes. Eriol could feel himself getting red when she didn't respond immediately. "Won't you please say something?" Eriol asked.
Sakura grabbed her things and opened the car door. She got out, but before she closed the door, she said, "If you wanna be friends, my offer still stands."
*Daidouji Mansion*
Tomoyo opened the door to her bedroom and three her backpack on her bed. Tomoyo took out her books and jumped on her bed. For five minutes, she was trying to concentrate on her homework, but she couldn't help but think about her dispute with Sakura.
"I'm NOT jealous." Tomoyo said, doing her calculus homework. She paused and stared outside her window. Tomoyo slammed her pencil into her notebook, closed her math book, and jumped off her bed. She grabbed the cordless phone on her computer desk and dialed a few numbers. She put the phone up to her ear and waited for a response.
"Moshi Moshi?"
"Meilin? It's Tomoyo."
"Hey Tomoyo!" Sighed Meilin. "You having a hard time with that calculus homework, too?"
"I need to tell you something." Tomoyo said quickly.
Meilin sat up straight. "Sounds serious."
"I-It is. And you gotta promise not to tell!"
"What is it?" Meilin asked. "I promise I won't tell a soul!"
Tomoyo sighed. "Okay. Before I tell you, answer me this: does it seem like I'm jealous of Sakura?"
Meilin shook her head hesitantly. "Well, no. Not really-"
"Sakura thinks I am!" Tomoyo rolled her eyes. "How conceited is that?"
"Well," Meilin began hesitantly. "Are you?"
"Jealous? Of Sakura! I have everything!! I'm rich, beautiful, popular..."
'Now look who's conceited!' Meilin thought to herself.
"...And just this afternoon she had the audacity to tell me I'm jealous of her!" Tomoyo ended.
"Well, what brought up this conversation in the first place?" Meilin asked, trying to do her calculus homework at the same time.
"Well, this is where you have to promise not to tell." Tomoyo said, brushing back her violet hair. "I mean, I know Syaoron's your half-cousin or whatever, but you still can't tell him, even if this is something he needs to know."
Meilin's eyes went wide. "Well, what is it?"
"You see, about two months ago, Sakura was dating a guy named Eriol."
"Eriol?" Meilin raised an eyebrow. "The guy you thought was stalking Sakura?"
"Yea, and you wanna know why I thought Eriol was stalking Sakura?" Tomoyo questioned Meilin. "Because Sakura broke up with him before spring break."
"That's good to know, Tomoyo, but," Meilin sighed. "What does this have to do with Syaoron?"
Tomoyo gave a slight chuckle. "Don't you wanna know why Sakura broke up with Eriol?" There was a pause. "She broke up with him for Syaoron! While Sakura was dating Eriol, she told Syaoron she'd go out with him! And Syaoron has no idea Sakura was two-timing Eriol... Eriol doesn't even know Sakura was two-timing him! And Eriol is Syaoron's best friend!!!!"
Meilin was speechless. She didn't know what to say to Tomoyo except, "Oh wow."
Tomoyo shook her head. "Sakura tells me that I'm jealous of her because she has two guys after her. Another thing she said was that guys only like me for my money! How cruel is that?"
Meilin was in shock. "I didn't think Sakura was like that!"
"Neither did I..." Tomoyo grinned evilly.
(A/N: Lies, lies, and more lies!! It's definitely not what I wanted for this story, but later on, you'll see why I did what I did...)
*The Gymnasium at Northwest High School*
"Great practice, girls!" Chiharu said. "Tomorrow, same time, same place. Let's hit the showers!"
Suddenly, the soccer team walked into the gym. The guys whistled as they walked past the cheerleaders, who rolled their eyes. Sakura looked at Syaoron, smiled, and Syaoron smiled back. Eriol, whom was walking alongside Syaoron, saw the whole thing. Yamazaki, who was walking beside Eriol and Syaoron, smiled and waved at Chiharu, but she turned away in disgust.
"Oh yea," Yamazaki grinned at Syaoron. "She wants me baaaaaad!" Syaoron just shook his head and continued walking with Eriol.
*Guy's Locker Room*
(A/N: Hell ya! That's where guys take showers... When they take showers, they get naked! ROOOWR!! Haha, just kidding!!)
Syaoron was putting on his green polo shirt when Eriol asked, "So, you and Sakura. Good friends?"
Syaoron shrugged and smiled. "Well, I dunno. We've become real close this last year."
Some of the guys chuckled. "'Real close frieeeends'," they mimicked.
Eriol took off his soccer shirt (A/N: To reveal RIPPLING muscles!! Bwuahaha!! Don't ya just wish you were there?? ) and threw it in his locker. "Come on, it's gotta be more than that, bro."
Syaoron zipped up his pants and smiled. "I wished there was more to it, too." With that said, he grabbed his bag and shut his locker door. Eriol watched Syaoron leave.
*Girl's Locker Room*
"Sakura, I know you've gotta thing for Syaoron!!" Naoko grinned.
Sakura blushed. "No..."
Chiharu was tying her shoelaces when she said, "Oh yea, riiight. You're red cheeks only proves our theory!"
Sakura grabbed her bag and smiled. "I really don't know what you mean!" She closed her locker and walked out of the locker room. Naoko and Chiharu grinned. "She sooo wants him!" Chiharu squealed.
*Student Parking Lot*
Syaoron unlocked the door to his olive-green Jetta when Sakura appeared in front of him. "Hi Sakura."
"Um, I don't mean to be a bother, but could you give me a ride home?" Sakura asked hesitantly.
"Sure!" Syaoron nodded.
*Kinomoto Residence*
"Thanks for the lift, Syaoron," Sakura blushed and she got her things from his car. She opened the door to the car when Syaoron stopped her.
"Wait a sec," Syaoron said. "I need to ask you something."
Sakura closed the door and looked at Syaoron. "Shoot."
"A-are we... going out?"
Sakura wanted to scream 'yes' a million times. Calmy, she said, "Why do you ask?"
"People are talking about us," Syaoron shrugged.
Sakura smiled. "People talk." There was a long pause when she finally said, "Well, actually, the reason why I wanted a ride home from you is because I have something to tell you."
"Shoot."
"Well," Sakura began. "It's like this. You know how some people keep secrets from other people because people don't really need to know about it?... like, it's not necessary... I mean, what if it's personal, and you don't want people talking... and... and..." Syaoron nodded, giving her permission for her to proceed. (A/N: Go, Sakura!! Go!! Telling Syaoron about Eriol is the right thing to do!!) She sighed. "Oh forget it. I'll tell you tomorrow." (A/N: NOO!!) They both stayed quiet for a while until Sakura said, "Well I'd better go. I'm gonna be up all night with that calculus homework."
She opened the car door when Syaoron took her hand. "If I kissed you right now, would you be my girlfriend?"
Sakura shut the car door and blushed. Before she could answer, Syaoron leaned in slowly and Sakura froze. 'What do I do?? What do I DO?? I've never kissed a guy before!! Okay, relax... just breathe... BREATHE!! How do I breathe when I kiss?? Nose or mouth?? Mouth or nose?? AHHH!!'
Suddenly, Sakura closed her eyes, and the sweetest thing lightly touched her lips. Syaoron placed his hands on Sakura's cheeks and broke away from the kiss. 'No!!' Sakura thought. 'Don't go!!!!'
Syaoron looked at her and smiled. "That was your first kiss?"
Sakura's cheeks went maroon. "It sucked, didn't it?"
"No," Syaoron said. "You were just tense. Ease up a bit-" But before Syaoron could finish, Sakura kissed him passionately, putting her arms around his neck. Syaoron placed his hands on her tiny waist. Sakura opened her opened her mouth, and Syaoron's tongue slid into her mouth. Then a horrible thought struck Syaoron's mind, making him break away from the kiss.
"What is it? I didn't think I was that bad that time!" Sakura frowned.
"No, no." Syaoron assured her. "What about Touya?? Won't he see us??"
Sakura giggled. "Relax, Syaoron. Touya's at school in Tokyo."
Sakura kissed his lips one last time. "But now I gotta go." She opened the door, got out, and shut the door behind her. As she was walking towards her house, Syaoron rolled down the window.
"You are my girlfriend, right?"
Sakura turned around and yelled back, "Maybe!!"
(A/N: Haha! 'Maybe'! I couldn't resist! Ahem...)
*Meilin's Apartment*
Meilin paced the floor. She grabbed her cell phone and looked at Syaoron's cell phone number. She tapped her foot nervously as she dialed his number.
"Hi Syaoron, it's Meilin. There's something you need to know..." Pause. "Call me on my cell phone when you get this message. Bye."
Meilin hung up. "Sorry Tomoyo," she said as she was dialing Syaoron's apartment number. "But he has to know the truth."
"Moshi Moshi?"
"Hey Syaoron."
"Meilin, hey! I just got in. What're you doing?"
"I called your cell phone, but I guess you turned it off."
"Oh," Syaoron nodded. "Sorry about that. "So what's new?"
Meilin froze. 'How can I tell him??'
"Meilin?"
"Huh?"
Syaoron raised an eyebrow. "Is there something you wanted to tell me?"
"Actually, Syaoron, there is, and I'm not sure you'll take the news very well."
*Back to the Kinomoto Residence*
Sakura was making pancakes when her bedroom phone rang. "Oh great!" Sakura said aloud. "I hope my pancakes don't burn!" She said as she dashed up the stairs. She answered the phone. "Moshi moshi?"
"S-Sakura."
"Tomoyo, is that you?" Sakura asked. "What happened? Are you crying?"
"Sakura! I'm so sorry!! I was angry and I said horrible things!!" Tomoyo sobbed.
"Hey," Sakura comforted Tomoyo. "Forget about what happened this afternoon after school. We both said some bad things-"
"N-NO!!" Tomoyo stopped her. "Th-That's not what I-I'm talking about..." Tomoyo's voice faded. "Promise me that no matter what happens, w-we'll be friends."
Sakura, still confused, agreed. "Yea, Tomoyo. Just tell me what happened."
Tomoyo bawled. "I d-did a horrible thing!!"
Sakura nodded and sighed. She knew she wasn't gonna get it out of Tomoyo, especially when all she could say was she 'did a horrible thing'. She stayed on the phone with Tomoyo until she could restrain herself, which was about five minutes. "Tomoyo, I really have to go. Are you sure you'll be okay."
"..."
"Tomoyo?"
"Yea. I'll be fine."
"Okay, see ya at school tomorrow, okay?"
"O-Okay."
CLICK.
Sakura fell on her bed and sighed. "I wonder what that was all about." Sakura inhaled slowly. Sakura's eyes went wide. She sniffed the air. "HOOEEE!!" She ran downstairs to her burning pancakes. Sakura put the pan underneath the sink and ran it under cold water. "I'll ask her tomorrow."
(A/N: So, do you really think Tomoyo meant it when she said she was sorry? You'll find out now...)
*The Next Morning at the Daidouji Residence*
(Tomoyo POV)
I woke up ridiculously early this morning. Today was the day; the day Sakura's whole world would come crashing down on her. Yesterday afternoon, after our fight, I had looked forward to this day. I hated the fact she had everything go her way. I planned to tell Meilin about Sakura's scandalous love affair with Eriol and Syaoron not only to get the frustrations off my chest. Oh no. I told her because I knew she'd tell Syaoron. Now I was feeling guilty about the whole betrayal against my best friend. I knew she'd hate me for what I had done, and I knew there was no way I'd make it up to her. Whatever Sakura would do to me today, after finding out it was I who told Syaoron her dirty little secret, I'd just have to take it, knowing that I deserve everything I get.
It was 7:30 AM when I went downstairs to eat breakfast. I asked the maid Rei if my mother was going to join me for breakfast. Mother left for a business trip at five AM this morning was her reply. Great, now whom could I seek advice from?
I walked to school alone. It was a cold morning for it being spring and all. I passed by Sakura's neighborhood and saw her house. I smiled a little when I saw her bedroom light still off. Probably still sleeping, as usual. I arrived at school earlier than usual. I sat in the classroom alone, thinking about what I could do about this predicament I put all five of us into.
Meilin walked into the classroom. I jumped out of my seat.
"Meilin!" I ran towards her. "You didn't tell Syaoron what I told you last night over the phone, did you?"
Meilin frowned. "And if I did?"
My eyes went wide. My hands took hold of her shoulders. "Why?? I told you not to tell!!"
Meilin broke free from my hold and scowled. "I felt Syaoron needed to know that he was in love with a slut."
"She's not a slut!" I snapped.
Meilin had a look of confusion over her face. "Okay, what's your problem? Last night, you were infuriated with Sakura's behavior, and know you're defending her?"
I paused. What could I say to that? I couldn't tell her I lied about Sakura! Then she'd hate me! I walked out of the classroom and Meilin followed.
"There isn't a chance everything you said last night about Sakura isn't true?" She asked. I refused to answer her and kept walking. Meilin jogged in front of me and stopped me. "Tomoyo, answer me. Did you lie?" I looked down at my feet and sighed. I looked back up and she was walking back to the classroom. "Wait!!" I called after her. She turned back around and looked at me. "Everything I said about Sakura leaving Eriol for Syaoron was true. Everything else was a lie. But you shouldn't have told Syaoron!!"
Meilin glared at me. "I told Syaoron what he needed to know. Yes, I told him Sakura left Eriol for him. Yes, I told him Sakura and Eriol were dating. Of course I'm gonna tell him what he needs to know!!" She slid the door open to the classroom and then slid it shut.
I slowly walked to the classroom door and opened it. Meilin was sitting at her desk, taking out her calculus homework. I was afraid of what I was about to ask. "H-How did he take it?"
Meilin, not looked up from her calculus homework, replied. "Not well."
"Was he upset?"
Meilin slammed her pencil on the desk and looked at me. "Of course he was!! The girl he loved and his best friend were going out, and both of them failed to mention it to Syaoron! He felt like an idiot! A fool! How do you think he took it??"
Oh shit.
(Normal POV)
Syaoron walked into class, along with a few other students. He looked at Meilin and then at Tomoyo.
"She's not here, is she?" Syaoron asked.
"No," Meilin answered. "Punctuality isn't her best aspect."
Tomoyo stayed quiet. Suddenly, the door slid open. It was Eriol and Sakura, laughing. 'Oh gosh!! Great way to make an entrance, you two!!' Tomoyo thought, slapping her forehead with the palm of her hand. Meilin turned and glared at Sakura. Syaoron turned and glared at Eriol.
"Okay, I'll see you later, Eriol." Sakura said. Eriol sat in his seat, and Sakura took her seat in front of Syaoron, whom was still glaring at Eriol. "Hey Tomoyo. You feeling better?"
Tomoyo flinched. "Um... yea, Sakura." 'Except for this horrible feeling in my stomach!' Tomoyo thought, slowly putting her head down.
"Ohayo... Meilin?" Sakura turned to Meilin only to receive a dirty look from her. Sakura turned around to look at Syaoron, whom was still glaring at Eriol. "Is someone jealous?" Sakura giggled.
Tomoyo's eyes went wide. 'I can't believe she just said that!'
Syaoron slowly turned to her and growled. Sakura's face contorted. Syaoron slowly turned to Eriol and glared. Sakura turned to Tomoyo and whispered, "What's the matter with them? Real grumps in the morning, don't you agree?" Tomoyo nodded. "Sure, Sakura."
*In between classes*
Sakura went inside the girl's restroom to wash her hands when suddenly Meilin came out of a restroom stall. Meilin washed her hands beside Sakura and began a conversation. "Well, Tomoyo and I had a nice little chat last night concerning you."
Sakura grabbed a paper towel. "About me?"
"Sure," Meilin said, smiling a little. "I mean, I think it's interesting news when you find out someone's not who they appear to be."
Sakura threw the paper towel away. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"To think Syaoron was in love with a slut." Meilin said, drying her hands with a paper towel.
"What??"
"I mean it's bad enough when his best friend and the girl he was in love with were dating. You didn't have the nerve to tell him. Afraid of being rejected, I suppose. Too bad he had to find out the hard way."
Sakura's eyes went wide. "You?"
"Please! I was only playing messenger." Meilin put her hands on her hips.
"But the only other person I told was..." Sakura put her hand on her mouth.
"That's right. Tomoyo told me. And I figured Syaoron needed to know, as well, seeing how he was the last to know. I guess you kinda know how it feels now, us talking behind your back, being left in the dark." Sakura looked at Meilin, then dashed out of the restroom. Meilin wore a smile of accomplishment.
Sakura found Tomoyo walking to her classroom. She pushed people out of her way and pulled Tomoyo's shoulder. Tomoyo turned around. "Hey."
Sakura smiled sweetly. "Hey." Then slapped Tomoyo's face. "How dare you!"
Tomoyo held her cheek. She pushed Sakura out of her way and began walking the opposite direction.
"Oh no you don't," Sakura said, grabbing her by the wrist. A crowd formed around the two. "You're not getting out of this easily." Tomoyo broke free of Sakura's grasp. "How could you do this to me? I thought I was your friend..." Sakura paused, then laughed. "Oh I see. This is payback for yesterday, after school. Well this time, it's my turn." Sakura slapped Tomoyo. Tomoyo came back up from the hit and punched her. Sakura grabbed Tomoyo's arm and twisted it behind her back. "One move and I break your arm!" Tomoyo pushed back her head full force, bumping heads with Sakura. Sakura clutched her head, giving Tomoyo the opportunity to pull Sakura's hair. "One move and your bald!" Two teachers came up from behind them and pulled them apart, both girls trying to break from their grasp, but their attempts were in vain.
*After School*
The cheerleaders were practicing outside by the soccer field. Sakura watched Syaoron and Eriol divided the soccer team into two teams so they could play against each other. When Sakura saw Syaoron and Eriol on separate teams, she knew there was bound to be trouble.
Chiharu and Naoko came up from behind Sakura. "You okay?" Naoko asked.
"We heard about the fight." Chiharu murmured.
"Did you hear why?" Sakura asked.
"No," Chiharu and Naoko said in unison.
"Good."
"I'm surprised you didn't get detention." Naoko thought aloud.
"Well, because it was my first offense, they gave me a verbal warning."
Chiharu crossed her arms. "Sakura, you're extremely lucky. You could have really been in trouble! If you're on the cheerleading squad, it's critical that you not get detention or your out!"
"Well, I didn't get detention, Chiharu, and I'm still on the squad." Sakura walked toward the rest of the squad with her pom-poms. "Okay, let's do the Northwest High Cheer." Chiharu sighed and with Naoko, joined the rest of the squad.
*Out on the Soccer Field*
Syaoron had the ball. 'Kick, run, kick, run, fake, kick, run.' Syaoron thought as he was kicking the soccer ball. Suddenly, Eriol tripped Syaoron and stole the ball. The coach blew his whistle.
Syaoron got up and pushed Eriol. "What's your problem, Hiiragizawa?"
"My problem?" Eriol growled. "What's yours? All day today, you've been giving me dirty looks."
"You stole my girl, asshole."
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"I'm talking about Sakura!"
"Damn, that's low. Going after your best friend's girl." Eriol said casually.
"Well, I really wouldn't know if she was 'your girl', seeing how you never told me you two were dating." Syaoron snapped.
The coach blew his whistle again. "Guys, settle this off field, but right now, we're trying to get ready for this Friday's big game."
"Gladly," Syaoron smirked. "C'mon Hiiragizawa. Let's 'settle this off field'." Syaoron and Eriol marched outside the field.
"Since when is Sakura 'your girl'?" Eriol asked.
"C'mon! You never knew?" Syaoron laughed. "Sakura wanted me, even when you two were together... if you were ever together, that is."
Eriol swung a punch at Syaoron, but Syaoron blocked it. Syaoron punched Eriol in the jaw. Eriol retaliated and punched his gut. Syaoron could feel himself lose air as he fell to the floor. He grabbed Syaoron's head and brought his knee up to his face. Syaoron got up and spin-kicked at Eriol's face. (A/N: Ouch! And with cleats, that's gotta hurt.) Eriol fell flat on his back. Syaoron kicked Eriol's side once, twice, but Eriol grabbed his foot the third time Syaoron kicked, and tripped him. He got on top of Syaoron and began strangling him. Syaoron brought his hands up and began strangling Eriol.
*Cheerleaders*
"Oh my gosh!" A cheerleader pointed at the two boys fighting. Sakura looked over. "No." She murmured. "NO! STOP IT!!" She ran towards them. "Sakura!!" Naoko cried. "Stop!!" Sakura continued running, and some cheerleaders followed her. By the time she got there, soccer players encircled the two boys. Sakura pushed the soccer players out of the way. Eriol and Syaoron were no longer on the floor. Sakura ran in between them at the exact time Syaoron threw a punch to the jaw...
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A/N: Phew! Complete. Wow, that took a while. I guess I should have made this chapter a little longer, though... anyways, a sneak peak at the next chapter.
*Preview for Chapter 6*
"What happened to you?" He asked as he saw the violet-haired beauty slump into the park bench next to him.
"I lost my best friend," She looked over at him to see a midnight blue- haired boy sitting next to her with bruises all over his face. "What happened to you?"
The boy smiled. "I guess I'm friendless as well."
Both were silent as they sat on the park bench. "You know," he began. "It was here I lost someone. She was always so good to me before. She left me for another."
"Let me guess. You're Eriol."
Eriol nodded. "Tomoyo, I presume?"
*End of Preview*
Okay, be ready for the next chapter. Now all you have to do is click that button that says "review" and type in your questions, comments, etc. Sayonara!!
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If You're Not The One
Chapter 5
Best Friend's Betrayal
*After School*
Sakura was skating along the sidewalk as fast as she could go. 'Great! I can't believe I forgot my cheerleading outfit and pom-poms at home! And I have to be at school in less than fifteen minutes!!' Suddenly, a blue Altima honked at her. The window to the Altima rolled down slowly.
"Hop in!"
It was Eriol.
Sakura got in the car and took off her rollerblades. They both remained silent for about two minutes. Sakura finally got the courage to speak. "I have to go home..."
"That's where I'm taking you," Eriol replied.
"Oh."
The Altima turned to the left and sped down the neighborhood. Both of them were silent. Sakura looked out the window and sighed. Eriol kept his eyes on the road, but would glance at Sakura from time to time. Eriol parallel parked in front of Sakura's house. "I'll wait till you get your things-" Eriol began.
"Why are you doing this?" Sakura asked.
"What?"
"I said why are you doing this? I mean, last time I saw you, you wanted nothing to do with me. Why the sudden interest?"
Eriol looked down at his lap. "I dunno."
Sakura opened the car door, got out, and shut it behind her. She ran quickly inside and a few seconds later, she ran out with a bag (A/N: With her cheerleading outfit and pom-poms inside it). She jumped into the car. Eriol made a u-turn and they drove out of the neighborhood.
Five minutes later, Eriol was parked in front of the school. Sakura grabbed her things and said, "Thanks for the lift."
"Don't go," Eriol said. "There's something I want to tell you."
Sakura closed the door to the car. She looked into his eyes as he looked into hers. "Well, say it, I really need to get to practice."
Eriol sighed. "Sakura, I think you and I both know that I'm still in love with you." Sakura looked at him sadly. "And you and I both know," Eriol continued. "That you aren't in love with me. And what I said at Penguin Park two Friday's ago was true. It's hard to start over and be your friend when I know these feelings I have for you aren't gonna change anytime soon. I don't care who you date as long as you're happy." Eriol paused and looked down. "The thing is I thought I made you happy-"
"And you do, Eriol!" Sakura began.
"Let me finish!" Eriol interrupted. "I want you to be happy, even if it means being happy with someone else, but I can't pretend our relationship never happened. When you asked if we could be 'just friends', I figured I couldn't because when I'm around you, I wouldn't act like 'just a friend'. I'm not telling you all this to make you feel guilty. I just thought you should know why this is so hard for me."
Sakura continued to look into Eriol's eyes. Eriol could feel himself getting red when she didn't respond immediately. "Won't you please say something?" Eriol asked.
Sakura grabbed her things and opened the car door. She got out, but before she closed the door, she said, "If you wanna be friends, my offer still stands."
*Daidouji Mansion*
Tomoyo opened the door to her bedroom and three her backpack on her bed. Tomoyo took out her books and jumped on her bed. For five minutes, she was trying to concentrate on her homework, but she couldn't help but think about her dispute with Sakura.
"I'm NOT jealous." Tomoyo said, doing her calculus homework. She paused and stared outside her window. Tomoyo slammed her pencil into her notebook, closed her math book, and jumped off her bed. She grabbed the cordless phone on her computer desk and dialed a few numbers. She put the phone up to her ear and waited for a response.
"Moshi Moshi?"
"Meilin? It's Tomoyo."
"Hey Tomoyo!" Sighed Meilin. "You having a hard time with that calculus homework, too?"
"I need to tell you something." Tomoyo said quickly.
Meilin sat up straight. "Sounds serious."
"I-It is. And you gotta promise not to tell!"
"What is it?" Meilin asked. "I promise I won't tell a soul!"
Tomoyo sighed. "Okay. Before I tell you, answer me this: does it seem like I'm jealous of Sakura?"
Meilin shook her head hesitantly. "Well, no. Not really-"
"Sakura thinks I am!" Tomoyo rolled her eyes. "How conceited is that?"
"Well," Meilin began hesitantly. "Are you?"
"Jealous? Of Sakura! I have everything!! I'm rich, beautiful, popular..."
'Now look who's conceited!' Meilin thought to herself.
"...And just this afternoon she had the audacity to tell me I'm jealous of her!" Tomoyo ended.
"Well, what brought up this conversation in the first place?" Meilin asked, trying to do her calculus homework at the same time.
"Well, this is where you have to promise not to tell." Tomoyo said, brushing back her violet hair. "I mean, I know Syaoron's your half-cousin or whatever, but you still can't tell him, even if this is something he needs to know."
Meilin's eyes went wide. "Well, what is it?"
"You see, about two months ago, Sakura was dating a guy named Eriol."
"Eriol?" Meilin raised an eyebrow. "The guy you thought was stalking Sakura?"
"Yea, and you wanna know why I thought Eriol was stalking Sakura?" Tomoyo questioned Meilin. "Because Sakura broke up with him before spring break."
"That's good to know, Tomoyo, but," Meilin sighed. "What does this have to do with Syaoron?"
Tomoyo gave a slight chuckle. "Don't you wanna know why Sakura broke up with Eriol?" There was a pause. "She broke up with him for Syaoron! While Sakura was dating Eriol, she told Syaoron she'd go out with him! And Syaoron has no idea Sakura was two-timing Eriol... Eriol doesn't even know Sakura was two-timing him! And Eriol is Syaoron's best friend!!!!"
Meilin was speechless. She didn't know what to say to Tomoyo except, "Oh wow."
Tomoyo shook her head. "Sakura tells me that I'm jealous of her because she has two guys after her. Another thing she said was that guys only like me for my money! How cruel is that?"
Meilin was in shock. "I didn't think Sakura was like that!"
"Neither did I..." Tomoyo grinned evilly.
(A/N: Lies, lies, and more lies!! It's definitely not what I wanted for this story, but later on, you'll see why I did what I did...)
*The Gymnasium at Northwest High School*
"Great practice, girls!" Chiharu said. "Tomorrow, same time, same place. Let's hit the showers!"
Suddenly, the soccer team walked into the gym. The guys whistled as they walked past the cheerleaders, who rolled their eyes. Sakura looked at Syaoron, smiled, and Syaoron smiled back. Eriol, whom was walking alongside Syaoron, saw the whole thing. Yamazaki, who was walking beside Eriol and Syaoron, smiled and waved at Chiharu, but she turned away in disgust.
"Oh yea," Yamazaki grinned at Syaoron. "She wants me baaaaaad!" Syaoron just shook his head and continued walking with Eriol.
*Guy's Locker Room*
(A/N: Hell ya! That's where guys take showers... When they take showers, they get naked! ROOOWR!! Haha, just kidding!!)
Syaoron was putting on his green polo shirt when Eriol asked, "So, you and Sakura. Good friends?"
Syaoron shrugged and smiled. "Well, I dunno. We've become real close this last year."
Some of the guys chuckled. "'Real close frieeeends'," they mimicked.
Eriol took off his soccer shirt (A/N: To reveal RIPPLING muscles!! Bwuahaha!! Don't ya just wish you were there?? ) and threw it in his locker. "Come on, it's gotta be more than that, bro."
Syaoron zipped up his pants and smiled. "I wished there was more to it, too." With that said, he grabbed his bag and shut his locker door. Eriol watched Syaoron leave.
*Girl's Locker Room*
"Sakura, I know you've gotta thing for Syaoron!!" Naoko grinned.
Sakura blushed. "No..."
Chiharu was tying her shoelaces when she said, "Oh yea, riiight. You're red cheeks only proves our theory!"
Sakura grabbed her bag and smiled. "I really don't know what you mean!" She closed her locker and walked out of the locker room. Naoko and Chiharu grinned. "She sooo wants him!" Chiharu squealed.
*Student Parking Lot*
Syaoron unlocked the door to his olive-green Jetta when Sakura appeared in front of him. "Hi Sakura."
"Um, I don't mean to be a bother, but could you give me a ride home?" Sakura asked hesitantly.
"Sure!" Syaoron nodded.
*Kinomoto Residence*
"Thanks for the lift, Syaoron," Sakura blushed and she got her things from his car. She opened the door to the car when Syaoron stopped her.
"Wait a sec," Syaoron said. "I need to ask you something."
Sakura closed the door and looked at Syaoron. "Shoot."
"A-are we... going out?"
Sakura wanted to scream 'yes' a million times. Calmy, she said, "Why do you ask?"
"People are talking about us," Syaoron shrugged.
Sakura smiled. "People talk." There was a long pause when she finally said, "Well, actually, the reason why I wanted a ride home from you is because I have something to tell you."
"Shoot."
"Well," Sakura began. "It's like this. You know how some people keep secrets from other people because people don't really need to know about it?... like, it's not necessary... I mean, what if it's personal, and you don't want people talking... and... and..." Syaoron nodded, giving her permission for her to proceed. (A/N: Go, Sakura!! Go!! Telling Syaoron about Eriol is the right thing to do!!) She sighed. "Oh forget it. I'll tell you tomorrow." (A/N: NOO!!) They both stayed quiet for a while until Sakura said, "Well I'd better go. I'm gonna be up all night with that calculus homework."
She opened the car door when Syaoron took her hand. "If I kissed you right now, would you be my girlfriend?"
Sakura shut the car door and blushed. Before she could answer, Syaoron leaned in slowly and Sakura froze. 'What do I do?? What do I DO?? I've never kissed a guy before!! Okay, relax... just breathe... BREATHE!! How do I breathe when I kiss?? Nose or mouth?? Mouth or nose?? AHHH!!'
Suddenly, Sakura closed her eyes, and the sweetest thing lightly touched her lips. Syaoron placed his hands on Sakura's cheeks and broke away from the kiss. 'No!!' Sakura thought. 'Don't go!!!!'
Syaoron looked at her and smiled. "That was your first kiss?"
Sakura's cheeks went maroon. "It sucked, didn't it?"
"No," Syaoron said. "You were just tense. Ease up a bit-" But before Syaoron could finish, Sakura kissed him passionately, putting her arms around his neck. Syaoron placed his hands on her tiny waist. Sakura opened her opened her mouth, and Syaoron's tongue slid into her mouth. Then a horrible thought struck Syaoron's mind, making him break away from the kiss.
"What is it? I didn't think I was that bad that time!" Sakura frowned.
"No, no." Syaoron assured her. "What about Touya?? Won't he see us??"
Sakura giggled. "Relax, Syaoron. Touya's at school in Tokyo."
Sakura kissed his lips one last time. "But now I gotta go." She opened the door, got out, and shut the door behind her. As she was walking towards her house, Syaoron rolled down the window.
"You are my girlfriend, right?"
Sakura turned around and yelled back, "Maybe!!"
(A/N: Haha! 'Maybe'! I couldn't resist! Ahem...)
*Meilin's Apartment*
Meilin paced the floor. She grabbed her cell phone and looked at Syaoron's cell phone number. She tapped her foot nervously as she dialed his number.
"Hi Syaoron, it's Meilin. There's something you need to know..." Pause. "Call me on my cell phone when you get this message. Bye."
Meilin hung up. "Sorry Tomoyo," she said as she was dialing Syaoron's apartment number. "But he has to know the truth."
"Moshi Moshi?"
"Hey Syaoron."
"Meilin, hey! I just got in. What're you doing?"
"I called your cell phone, but I guess you turned it off."
"Oh," Syaoron nodded. "Sorry about that. "So what's new?"
Meilin froze. 'How can I tell him??'
"Meilin?"
"Huh?"
Syaoron raised an eyebrow. "Is there something you wanted to tell me?"
"Actually, Syaoron, there is, and I'm not sure you'll take the news very well."
*Back to the Kinomoto Residence*
Sakura was making pancakes when her bedroom phone rang. "Oh great!" Sakura said aloud. "I hope my pancakes don't burn!" She said as she dashed up the stairs. She answered the phone. "Moshi moshi?"
"S-Sakura."
"Tomoyo, is that you?" Sakura asked. "What happened? Are you crying?"
"Sakura! I'm so sorry!! I was angry and I said horrible things!!" Tomoyo sobbed.
"Hey," Sakura comforted Tomoyo. "Forget about what happened this afternoon after school. We both said some bad things-"
"N-NO!!" Tomoyo stopped her. "Th-That's not what I-I'm talking about..." Tomoyo's voice faded. "Promise me that no matter what happens, w-we'll be friends."
Sakura, still confused, agreed. "Yea, Tomoyo. Just tell me what happened."
Tomoyo bawled. "I d-did a horrible thing!!"
Sakura nodded and sighed. She knew she wasn't gonna get it out of Tomoyo, especially when all she could say was she 'did a horrible thing'. She stayed on the phone with Tomoyo until she could restrain herself, which was about five minutes. "Tomoyo, I really have to go. Are you sure you'll be okay."
"..."
"Tomoyo?"
"Yea. I'll be fine."
"Okay, see ya at school tomorrow, okay?"
"O-Okay."
CLICK.
Sakura fell on her bed and sighed. "I wonder what that was all about." Sakura inhaled slowly. Sakura's eyes went wide. She sniffed the air. "HOOEEE!!" She ran downstairs to her burning pancakes. Sakura put the pan underneath the sink and ran it under cold water. "I'll ask her tomorrow."
(A/N: So, do you really think Tomoyo meant it when she said she was sorry? You'll find out now...)
*The Next Morning at the Daidouji Residence*
(Tomoyo POV)
I woke up ridiculously early this morning. Today was the day; the day Sakura's whole world would come crashing down on her. Yesterday afternoon, after our fight, I had looked forward to this day. I hated the fact she had everything go her way. I planned to tell Meilin about Sakura's scandalous love affair with Eriol and Syaoron not only to get the frustrations off my chest. Oh no. I told her because I knew she'd tell Syaoron. Now I was feeling guilty about the whole betrayal against my best friend. I knew she'd hate me for what I had done, and I knew there was no way I'd make it up to her. Whatever Sakura would do to me today, after finding out it was I who told Syaoron her dirty little secret, I'd just have to take it, knowing that I deserve everything I get.
It was 7:30 AM when I went downstairs to eat breakfast. I asked the maid Rei if my mother was going to join me for breakfast. Mother left for a business trip at five AM this morning was her reply. Great, now whom could I seek advice from?
I walked to school alone. It was a cold morning for it being spring and all. I passed by Sakura's neighborhood and saw her house. I smiled a little when I saw her bedroom light still off. Probably still sleeping, as usual. I arrived at school earlier than usual. I sat in the classroom alone, thinking about what I could do about this predicament I put all five of us into.
Meilin walked into the classroom. I jumped out of my seat.
"Meilin!" I ran towards her. "You didn't tell Syaoron what I told you last night over the phone, did you?"
Meilin frowned. "And if I did?"
My eyes went wide. My hands took hold of her shoulders. "Why?? I told you not to tell!!"
Meilin broke free from my hold and scowled. "I felt Syaoron needed to know that he was in love with a slut."
"She's not a slut!" I snapped.
Meilin had a look of confusion over her face. "Okay, what's your problem? Last night, you were infuriated with Sakura's behavior, and know you're defending her?"
I paused. What could I say to that? I couldn't tell her I lied about Sakura! Then she'd hate me! I walked out of the classroom and Meilin followed.
"There isn't a chance everything you said last night about Sakura isn't true?" She asked. I refused to answer her and kept walking. Meilin jogged in front of me and stopped me. "Tomoyo, answer me. Did you lie?" I looked down at my feet and sighed. I looked back up and she was walking back to the classroom. "Wait!!" I called after her. She turned back around and looked at me. "Everything I said about Sakura leaving Eriol for Syaoron was true. Everything else was a lie. But you shouldn't have told Syaoron!!"
Meilin glared at me. "I told Syaoron what he needed to know. Yes, I told him Sakura left Eriol for him. Yes, I told him Sakura and Eriol were dating. Of course I'm gonna tell him what he needs to know!!" She slid the door open to the classroom and then slid it shut.
I slowly walked to the classroom door and opened it. Meilin was sitting at her desk, taking out her calculus homework. I was afraid of what I was about to ask. "H-How did he take it?"
Meilin, not looked up from her calculus homework, replied. "Not well."
"Was he upset?"
Meilin slammed her pencil on the desk and looked at me. "Of course he was!! The girl he loved and his best friend were going out, and both of them failed to mention it to Syaoron! He felt like an idiot! A fool! How do you think he took it??"
Oh shit.
(Normal POV)
Syaoron walked into class, along with a few other students. He looked at Meilin and then at Tomoyo.
"She's not here, is she?" Syaoron asked.
"No," Meilin answered. "Punctuality isn't her best aspect."
Tomoyo stayed quiet. Suddenly, the door slid open. It was Eriol and Sakura, laughing. 'Oh gosh!! Great way to make an entrance, you two!!' Tomoyo thought, slapping her forehead with the palm of her hand. Meilin turned and glared at Sakura. Syaoron turned and glared at Eriol.
"Okay, I'll see you later, Eriol." Sakura said. Eriol sat in his seat, and Sakura took her seat in front of Syaoron, whom was still glaring at Eriol. "Hey Tomoyo. You feeling better?"
Tomoyo flinched. "Um... yea, Sakura." 'Except for this horrible feeling in my stomach!' Tomoyo thought, slowly putting her head down.
"Ohayo... Meilin?" Sakura turned to Meilin only to receive a dirty look from her. Sakura turned around to look at Syaoron, whom was still glaring at Eriol. "Is someone jealous?" Sakura giggled.
Tomoyo's eyes went wide. 'I can't believe she just said that!'
Syaoron slowly turned to her and growled. Sakura's face contorted. Syaoron slowly turned to Eriol and glared. Sakura turned to Tomoyo and whispered, "What's the matter with them? Real grumps in the morning, don't you agree?" Tomoyo nodded. "Sure, Sakura."
*In between classes*
Sakura went inside the girl's restroom to wash her hands when suddenly Meilin came out of a restroom stall. Meilin washed her hands beside Sakura and began a conversation. "Well, Tomoyo and I had a nice little chat last night concerning you."
Sakura grabbed a paper towel. "About me?"
"Sure," Meilin said, smiling a little. "I mean, I think it's interesting news when you find out someone's not who they appear to be."
Sakura threw the paper towel away. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"To think Syaoron was in love with a slut." Meilin said, drying her hands with a paper towel.
"What??"
"I mean it's bad enough when his best friend and the girl he was in love with were dating. You didn't have the nerve to tell him. Afraid of being rejected, I suppose. Too bad he had to find out the hard way."
Sakura's eyes went wide. "You?"
"Please! I was only playing messenger." Meilin put her hands on her hips.
"But the only other person I told was..." Sakura put her hand on her mouth.
"That's right. Tomoyo told me. And I figured Syaoron needed to know, as well, seeing how he was the last to know. I guess you kinda know how it feels now, us talking behind your back, being left in the dark." Sakura looked at Meilin, then dashed out of the restroom. Meilin wore a smile of accomplishment.
Sakura found Tomoyo walking to her classroom. She pushed people out of her way and pulled Tomoyo's shoulder. Tomoyo turned around. "Hey."
Sakura smiled sweetly. "Hey." Then slapped Tomoyo's face. "How dare you!"
Tomoyo held her cheek. She pushed Sakura out of her way and began walking the opposite direction.
"Oh no you don't," Sakura said, grabbing her by the wrist. A crowd formed around the two. "You're not getting out of this easily." Tomoyo broke free of Sakura's grasp. "How could you do this to me? I thought I was your friend..." Sakura paused, then laughed. "Oh I see. This is payback for yesterday, after school. Well this time, it's my turn." Sakura slapped Tomoyo. Tomoyo came back up from the hit and punched her. Sakura grabbed Tomoyo's arm and twisted it behind her back. "One move and I break your arm!" Tomoyo pushed back her head full force, bumping heads with Sakura. Sakura clutched her head, giving Tomoyo the opportunity to pull Sakura's hair. "One move and your bald!" Two teachers came up from behind them and pulled them apart, both girls trying to break from their grasp, but their attempts were in vain.
*After School*
The cheerleaders were practicing outside by the soccer field. Sakura watched Syaoron and Eriol divided the soccer team into two teams so they could play against each other. When Sakura saw Syaoron and Eriol on separate teams, she knew there was bound to be trouble.
Chiharu and Naoko came up from behind Sakura. "You okay?" Naoko asked.
"We heard about the fight." Chiharu murmured.
"Did you hear why?" Sakura asked.
"No," Chiharu and Naoko said in unison.
"Good."
"I'm surprised you didn't get detention." Naoko thought aloud.
"Well, because it was my first offense, they gave me a verbal warning."
Chiharu crossed her arms. "Sakura, you're extremely lucky. You could have really been in trouble! If you're on the cheerleading squad, it's critical that you not get detention or your out!"
"Well, I didn't get detention, Chiharu, and I'm still on the squad." Sakura walked toward the rest of the squad with her pom-poms. "Okay, let's do the Northwest High Cheer." Chiharu sighed and with Naoko, joined the rest of the squad.
*Out on the Soccer Field*
Syaoron had the ball. 'Kick, run, kick, run, fake, kick, run.' Syaoron thought as he was kicking the soccer ball. Suddenly, Eriol tripped Syaoron and stole the ball. The coach blew his whistle.
Syaoron got up and pushed Eriol. "What's your problem, Hiiragizawa?"
"My problem?" Eriol growled. "What's yours? All day today, you've been giving me dirty looks."
"You stole my girl, asshole."
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"I'm talking about Sakura!"
"Damn, that's low. Going after your best friend's girl." Eriol said casually.
"Well, I really wouldn't know if she was 'your girl', seeing how you never told me you two were dating." Syaoron snapped.
The coach blew his whistle again. "Guys, settle this off field, but right now, we're trying to get ready for this Friday's big game."
"Gladly," Syaoron smirked. "C'mon Hiiragizawa. Let's 'settle this off field'." Syaoron and Eriol marched outside the field.
"Since when is Sakura 'your girl'?" Eriol asked.
"C'mon! You never knew?" Syaoron laughed. "Sakura wanted me, even when you two were together... if you were ever together, that is."
Eriol swung a punch at Syaoron, but Syaoron blocked it. Syaoron punched Eriol in the jaw. Eriol retaliated and punched his gut. Syaoron could feel himself lose air as he fell to the floor. He grabbed Syaoron's head and brought his knee up to his face. Syaoron got up and spin-kicked at Eriol's face. (A/N: Ouch! And with cleats, that's gotta hurt.) Eriol fell flat on his back. Syaoron kicked Eriol's side once, twice, but Eriol grabbed his foot the third time Syaoron kicked, and tripped him. He got on top of Syaoron and began strangling him. Syaoron brought his hands up and began strangling Eriol.
*Cheerleaders*
"Oh my gosh!" A cheerleader pointed at the two boys fighting. Sakura looked over. "No." She murmured. "NO! STOP IT!!" She ran towards them. "Sakura!!" Naoko cried. "Stop!!" Sakura continued running, and some cheerleaders followed her. By the time she got there, soccer players encircled the two boys. Sakura pushed the soccer players out of the way. Eriol and Syaoron were no longer on the floor. Sakura ran in between them at the exact time Syaoron threw a punch to the jaw...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A/N: Phew! Complete. Wow, that took a while. I guess I should have made this chapter a little longer, though... anyways, a sneak peak at the next chapter.
*Preview for Chapter 6*
"What happened to you?" He asked as he saw the violet-haired beauty slump into the park bench next to him.
"I lost my best friend," She looked over at him to see a midnight blue- haired boy sitting next to her with bruises all over his face. "What happened to you?"
The boy smiled. "I guess I'm friendless as well."
Both were silent as they sat on the park bench. "You know," he began. "It was here I lost someone. She was always so good to me before. She left me for another."
"Let me guess. You're Eriol."
Eriol nodded. "Tomoyo, I presume?"
*End of Preview*
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