C-Mage: Konnichiwa! So, we might actually succeed in getting a chapter out every two weeks. *shrugs* Wouldn't that be great? Anyway, arigatou gozaimasu to all of you who review you're so nice! And, since you're so nice, I'm going to do what I did for Hooded. Anyone who wishes to be notified of new chapters has only to give me their e-mail addy, and I'll e-mail you.... o.O
T.Anjel: Wow…I feel so lazy next to C-mage… T-T Doing all this work with the e-mails and just being so responsible…::sniff:: Well anyway! I would like to thank everyone for reading this fic and reviewing it and just being so….great. Really…I just love you all…
Disclaimer: Same as always. We don't own CCS. You don't own CCS. Okay? ^.~
Summary: Meiling's back in Syaoran's life and doesn't plan to leave any day soon. She's just one of the small problems beginning to surface as Syaoran goes to a party and doesn't feel all too good.
Learn to Love Me - Chapter 4 - Syaoran's ex-fiancée
I unlocked my apartment door and walked in, faced with the same drab room that I'd been faced with since I'd moved in years ago. The front room had yellowing walls and the essential pieces of furniture: couch, end tables, recliner. The spot where a television stood in most homes was blank - I was too busy to watch anything, and none of the programs were interesting, anyway. Behind the front room there was a cramped kitchen and dining room. A small table stood to one side, while the other was occupied by kitchen utensils. Off to the left was my bedroom and bathroom, decorated as sparsely as possible. A teacher didn't make a great income, and I had no need for excess.
I took off my shoes and replaced them with my favorite, green house slippers, flipping on the lights as I did so. After sitting the recliner, I placed my briefcase on the floor, pulling out papers that I needed to look through. There were lesson plans for the next school day, worksheets we had done in my classes, and information on the self defense club.
After a while of working, someone knocked on the door. I frowned; no one ever visited me. Putting my papers aside with an annoyed grunt, I stood up and walked to the door. Out of habit, I looked through the security peephole.
What I saw earned a groan from me: Meiling.
Meiling and I had been betrothed a few years back. She was an acquaintance of mine through the Li clan, and she'd been fascinated with me since we'd first met during childhood. She'd frequently trained with me, and eventually she'd asked the Elders for an arranged marriage. Of course they agreed, and so we were betrothed. Eventually my sisters called me up to discuss the marriage, and I was shocked: I was engaged? What was that girl thinking? I broke off the engagement as soon as was possible and left things at that.
I opened the door and stood aside, welcoming her in. She smiled at me and squealed, "Syaoran!" She threw her arms around me, black hair flying everywhere, and kissed my unyielding mouth. I pushed her back, closed the door, and walked back to my chair.
Smiling uncontrollably, she sat down across me on the couch, practically bursting with excitement. "Oh, Syaoran, I'm so glad I found you!" she cried. "The Elders didn't want to give me your address, but I kept on trying, and finally they gave in!" Pausing for a second, she looked around, red eyes flicking everywhere. "Syaoran, your apartment is so...drab," she finally said, looking back at me.
"I prefer it that way," I replied, full well knowing I was lying. I hated my apartment. "Meiling," I asked, "why did you come here?" I'd been warned of her impending arrival a few days ago by my youngest sister- she'd felt it her duty to inform me, and she was never against a little gossiping.
"Why, to get you back, of course," she answered, as if it were obvious. "I don't know why you broke off the engagement, but I'm here to convince you to marry me."
"Meiling, I broke off the engagement because I wasn't in love with you," I stated stiffly.
"Oh." She pouted briefly, then looked back up at me. "Well, then, I'll get you to fall in love with me! Ne, Syaoran, when do you want to go on a date?"
I reached up to rub my temples; I felt a headache coming on, and it wasn't small. "Um...can I wait a few days, Meiling?"
"Sure!" She rifled about in her purse for a second, then came up with a pad of paper and a pen. She scribbled on it and reached out to give a piece to me. "Here's my information on where I'm staying. Call me whenever you -"
Bring bring. Bring bring. We looked at the phone, surprise registering with us both. I'd never gotten phone calls - they were as infrequent as visitors.
Meiling reached the phone before I did, picking it up and saying, "Hello? Li residence." Surprise was evidently expressed on her face, then she turned to me. "It's for you. A Ms. Kinomoto...?" She said the name as if it was offending to the ear.
I grabbed the phone from her. "Moshi moshi?" I asked, slipping into her preferred Japanese and wondering why she was calling me.
"Li-san?" answered a tentative voice I recognized as Kinomoto's.
"Hai. What is it?"
"Well, I noticed a problem with the homework.... The assignment is over chapter two, when the students are just starting chapter one."
I mentally slapped my head. I was such an idiot! "Arigatou for notifying me, Kinomoto-san. Don't do the homework - I'll notify the class on Monday." I hung up and replaced the phone on its stand, noticing Meiling's questioning yet demanding look.
"Syaoran...," she began, "who is Ms. Kinomoto?"
I sighed. "Ms. Kinomoto is my student teacher. She called to say that she found a problem in my assignment." A possessive look was still in Meiling's eyes, but I ignored it. I glanced at my watch and saw that it was getting late. "You'd better go, Meiling. I still have work to do, and it's late." I picked up the card and placed it near the phone before standing up. I walked her to the door, where I dismissed her.
~*~*~*~*~*~
The next day was a Saturday, but I woke up bright and early nonetheless. I dressed in practice clothes and drove to the high school, running drills in the empty gym. Afterwards, I went back home and showered, dressing in a comfortable outfit of T-shirt and jeans.
Sitting again in my recliner, I picked up two pieces of paper: the envelope with 'Meiling' on it and the paper Meiling had given me. A phone number and address glared up at me from the latter, and I suspected that Meiling was staying at a hotel until she could find an apartment. The envelope held the letter my sister had sent me, informing me of Meiling's arrival. I hadn't wanted to believe it, but apparently she had been right.
Sighing, I thought about my situation. I didn't really want to "court" Meiling (I winced at the thought), but she gave me no other choice. She was known for being persistent and getting what she wanted, no matter what. If I refused to take her out, she'd bug me until I was worn out. That left me with one choice, until I could think of something better - give her what she wanted.
I was reaching for the phone, every cell in my body resisting, when it rang. I yanked my outstretched arm back in surprise. What if it was Meiling?
Don't be silly, I chided myself. It could be someone else.
Angry at how paranoid I was being, I growled and picked up the phone. "Hello?" I heard myself ask.
"Aa, Li-kun!" said a Japanese voice I knew too well.
"Hai, Hiiragizawa-san?"
"I'm just calling to remind you about the party tonight. I wouldn't want you to miss it. You don't socialize enough, as it is. Will you be there at seven?"
"Un."
"Good! Ja." Hiiragizawa-san hung up, and I put the phone back.
Leaning back in my chair, I smacked my forehead. I had completely forgotten about the party! Hiiragizawa-san always held a party to commemorate the start of a new school year, and everyone was forced to attend. It was a chance to meet new teachers and student teachers, he said, but I believe he just liked hounding me into these things. He still does, in fact.
I glanced at my watch and saw that it was only eleven in the morning. I had a good seven hours to spare until I had to start getting ready, if I wanted to make a prompt appearance. I wasn't really in the mood to call Meiling anymore, and, if I remembered correctly, I was getting a bit low on food.
I'll go grocery shopping, then, I thought.
I got up and walked over to my refrigerator, opening the metal door to peer into its depths. Right now all I had was some catsup, an almost empty carton of orange juice, and a jar of old pickles. I picked of the jar of pickles in disgust and dumped it into my trashcan, then turned back to the fridge. I was still faced with the same things, so I drank the rest of the orange juice, threw the carton away, then closed the door and went to get my shoes.
Shrugging into my jacket - fall was approaching - I closed and locked my door, then headed out to my car. It took five minutes to get to the nearest grocery store. I parked, then grabbed a cart and started to roam the aisles.
By the time I reached the ice cream section, my cart was full of snack foods, produce, and sandwich supplies. I was debating over whether or not to get the box of chocolate almond ice cream when another cart crashed into mine headlong.
"I'm so sorry!" cried a voice I vaguely recognized. My head whipped over to stare at the flushing girl in front of me. By her auburn hair and downcast emerald eyes I placed her as Kinomoto.
"It's all right. Nothing's broken," I told her, staying in English. It wouldn't do to speak Japanese in a public place. She started and stared at me in horror.
"Mr. Li! I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to...."
"As I said, it's okay. Now, why were you going so fast?" I was amazed at how nice I was being. Normally I would rip the head off of anyone so reckless.
"I told Tomoyo I'd hurry, so she wouldn't be late for Eriol...." Horror erupted again on her face. "Tomoyo-chan! I forgot!" She hurriedly grabbed some frozen items and pushed her cart away. "Sayonara, Mr. Li," she mumbled, probably not realizing that in her sudden spurt of rush she began speaking in her native tongue.
"I'll see you at Mr. Hiiragizawa's party," I said, having no control over my voice box.
Kinomoto look startled, then smiled. "I'll see you there, Mr. Li." She headed off in the other direction, presumably to the registers.
I smiled slightly, then shook my head. What was I doing? I had never been more than civil to any one of my student teachers, so why was I acting friendly now? Angry again at myself, I threw the box of ice cream as if it were at blame for my behavior into my cart and marched to the check-outs.
When I got home, I made my way up to my apartment, cursing the amount of items I had to buy. With so many, and only one person, it took numerous trips to carry them all. Eventually I had them up and packed away, and I could relax.
I sat in my recliner, ice cream box and spoon in hand, and starting working on my papers. Sure, it may not be the most nutritious lunch, but it was more comforting than something healthy. I worked away, recording grades and staring at the pages until my eyes hurt.
Finally taking a small stretch break, I rubbed my eyes and looked at my watch. Kuso! It was 6:28 p.m. Time flies when you're having fun, eh? I dashed into my small bedroom and changed my clothes. From past experience, I knew that it would be semi-formal, requiring me to dress nice, but not in a tux. I dressed in nice slacks and a green shirt. Green is my favorite color, after all. I grabbed a pair of nice shoes and dashed to the front room, trading slippers for shoes. I'd neglected to change socks when I'd changed, and I'd just have to hope that no one would notice the white cotton.
A quick glance in the mirror by my door told me that my hair was passable, and I bolted out the door, barely remembering to get my keys in time. I had to make a trip back for my jacket, and by the time I was ready to leave, it was 6:42. I raced down the stairs, threw myself into my car, and left.
Eriol had reserved a room at the Rec. Center for the party, and I reached there with three minutes to spare. The room was nicely decorated, with streamers of the school colors hanging artfully from the ceiling and posters on the walls, courtesy of Daidouji. There was a table of food off to the right, arranged by the school chefs. They appreciated the chance to prove once a year that they were capable of making more than cheap pizza, and it was loaded with edibles. Occasional tables with chairs finished the look, and a disc jockey was set up in the corner.
"Li-san!" called Hiiragizawa-san, waving from by the food table. "This punch is delicious!" I nodded and headed over to the table, eye set on the dim sum platter. One of the things that hadn't left me since my departure from China was a love for dim sum, and I wanted to see how these American cooks fared.
I grabbed a paper plate, napkin, cup, and utensils and loaded up my plate with dim sum, saving room for those little sandwiches people eat at parties. I moved down the table and ladled punch into my cup. "You'd best be careful," Hiiragizawa-san warned when I started to move away. "You never know if someone has spiked the punch." He winked behind his glasses, then turned back to Daidouji. Shaking my head, I sought out a table in a secluded corner of the room, where I could eat in peace.
Daidouji found me a while after I'd finished my food, as I was daydreaming. She cleared her throat, and I looked up, blinking. Daidouji was marvelous in a gown of deep navy, which contrasted beautifully with her pale skin. Her violet locks were kept back by a heavy barrette, her amethyst eyes calm. "Li-san, would you dance with me?" She smiled innocently; she was anything but. Chances were she had been sent over by Hiiragizawa-san to force me to interact.
"Of course," I responded, standing up. I'd been taught to dance when I was little, using Meiling or my youngest sister as a dance partner, and I was well-versed in the styles. We started onto the dance floor, and I led her smoothly.
"So, Li-san," she said in Japanese. It was her preferred language, too, even if it might make those around us uncomfortable. "How has teaching been this year? The students any tougher than last year?"
"Iie. They're just the same as ever, always trying to get out of work and slack off. How have yours been? Any new art prodigies?"
Daidouji smiled. "They're just as messy, but some show a little talent. It's amazing what these students can turn out when they try. For example, I've had them painting a still life recently, and one student decided that, instead of paint the scene with normal colors, they'd reverse them. It's making for a beautiful effect. Would you like to come down and see it some time?"
"Hai," I replied. I may not be much of a one for mingling, but I can when I'm forced to. There's nothing like being impolite at a public function to earn disapproval from the Elders. "Is it like the negative of a photograph?"
Daidouji nodded. "Just about, but the colors aren't exactly correct." She giggled. "Li-san, I never knew you could actually carry on a conversation."
I made a face. "Arigatou, Daidouji-san," I said stiffly.
She batted my arm lightly. "Oh, I'm just being silly." She straightened, then looked me in the eye. "How are things between you and Sakura-chan?" Somehow I knew this had been the focus of her conversation. I felt the first pang of a headache and hid a grimace, hoping it would go away.
"All right," I answered, not untruthfully. Things had been going better between us, if not as well as I'd like. "She's very stubborn, isn't she?"
"Un. She wouldn't be Sakura-chan if she weren't." She grinned, pearly teeth glinting. "Don't be too hard on her, Li-san."
"Na -" I was cut off by Hiiragizawa-san.
"May I cut in?" he asked silkily.
"Hai," I replied. Daidouji stepped aside to dance with Hiiragizawa-san, and I moved to see Hiiragizawa-san's dance partner. Just my luck - it was Kinomoto. She looked nervous, but I stepped over and offered my arm to her. Obviously startled, she took it, and I started to lead.
Kinomoto had her hair back, for once seeming to take the time to do something with it other than a ponytail. It was plaited down her back, a few strands left to frame her face. Her dress was a pale pink color, giving her a sun-kissed effect that contrasted with her eyes. She smiled at me sheepishly. "Konbanwa, Li-san."
"Konbanwa, Kinomoto-san. Are you enjoying yourself?"
"Un. I never really knew how many teachers there were...." She looked around, eyes wide. She's cute, I thought, before catching myself. "Ne, Li-san," she started, sounding awkward, "who answered your phone yesterday?"
"An acquaintance of mine," I answered, refusing to give out information about my private life to fuel gossip and curt from the headache. Enough was said about me as it was.
"Aa." She stared into space for a while, lost in thought.
"Kinomoto-san," I said after some time, "arigatou for telling me about the assignment. I wouldn't have caught it if you hadn't...."
"Hmm?" she asked, coming to attention. "Oh. Douitashimashite. I just hope the poor students aren't too confused." She giggled into her hand. "Li-san, you're a really great dancer."
I couldn't repress the blush tinting my cheeks. "Arigatou. I was taught when I was little, by my mother. I always had my sisters as dance partners, and they'd boss me around...."
Kinomoto laughed. "You have sisters?"
"Hai. Four of them, really." My head was feeling light, for some reason.
Kinomoto nodded. "I know what you mean. I have an older brother, and he always teased me." She smiled wistfully. "I do miss him, though. Do you miss your sisters?"
"Hai," I answered, surprised that I actually did. It had been lonely with just me for the past few years. All of a sudden, the room spun a little, and my headache grew. I reached up to rub my temple and heard myself ask, "Can we sit down for a little?"
"Oh!" cried Kinomoto, eyes wide with worry. "Daijoubu desu ka?" She led me to a table close to the cleared area and moved to sit opposite me.
"H...hai," I answered. "It's just a headache." I was lying, and I knew it. "Maybe some punch...." I started to stand up, and the pain in my forehead increased. I sat back down hard and clutched my forehead.
"Li-san, you stay here. I'll get some water." Kinomoto stood up and rushed over to the refreshments table, grabbed a cup, then went to the water fountain by the wall, filling it up. She came back over and pressed it into my hand. "Drink this. I heard that Eriol-kun spiked the punch." She smiled a little crookedly. "Maybe alcohol doesn't agree with you."
I murmured my thanks and drank the water, trying not to go too fast. "I should probably go home...." I tried to stand up, but the room spun, and I fell back into my chair.
"Hoe!" Kinomoto reached out to touch my forehead and yanked her hand back. "You're burning up! You need to get home, but you can't take yourself...." She bit her lip in thought. "I'll just have to take you home," she decided, eyes confidant. "Can you stay awake to tell me how to reach your house?" I nodded dimly. "Good. Tomoyo-san!" She turned to beckon Daidouji.
"Hai?" Daidouji asked as she reached us.
"Li-san is sick, so I'm going to take him home. Can you take the car home yourself?"
"Hai. Sakura-chan...." Daidouji looked hesitant. "Are you sure this is the best idea? Maybe Eriol-kun could take him home."
"Iie. Eriol-kun is the host and has to entertain everyone. I don't want it to be a burden on him. Arigatou, Tomoyo-san." Kinomoto smiled at her briefly, then turned back to me. "Now, Li-san. May I have your keys?"
"They're in my jacket," I said, pointing to the coat rack.
"Aa. Well, we'll just have to get them." She stood up and eased me into a standing position, leaning me against her shoulder. Slowly she walked me over until I was able to grab my coat and pull it off the hanger. She fished around in the pockets until she came up with a set of keys. Then she led me outside, and I led her to my car. She unlocked it and shoved me into the passenger seat, taking the driver's side for herself. "Which way do we go?" she asked me.
"Head down Fifth Street," I said. "Heading east." She nodded and started the car, going down Fifth. Eventually I told her to turn down a street, then pull into the large parking lot by my apartment complex. She stopped the car and got out, helping me out as well. "Apartment 36," I said. She nodded and marched me into the building, into the elevator, and down the hall to my apartment. Clutching the keys, she unlocked my door and ushered me in.
"Now, you need to sit down," she said, helping me to my room and into my bed. We'd neglected to take our shoes off, and I hoped that I wouldn't have to sweep too much afterwards. "I'll get you a damp washcloth...." She bustled off to the kitchen, and the last thing I remembered was a cool cloth on my skin.
TBC
C-Mage: So, how was it? We left you with a beautiful cliffhanger.... Don't you just love us? ^.~ Oh, Tomoyo and Eriol are great. *o* Now, what's going to happen when Sakura takes care of Syaoran...? Heehee.
T.Anjel: You know what? I would like to thank you…yes YOU! For reading this. Do you like? Do you like? I don't care if you don't like, cuz I like. ^___^ ;; I love this cliffhanger too…can you just feel the love?!?!
I thank you for reading, but I'll love you if you review.
T.Anjel: Wow…I feel so lazy next to C-mage… T-T Doing all this work with the e-mails and just being so responsible…::sniff:: Well anyway! I would like to thank everyone for reading this fic and reviewing it and just being so….great. Really…I just love you all…
Disclaimer: Same as always. We don't own CCS. You don't own CCS. Okay? ^.~
Summary: Meiling's back in Syaoran's life and doesn't plan to leave any day soon. She's just one of the small problems beginning to surface as Syaoran goes to a party and doesn't feel all too good.
Learn to Love Me - Chapter 4 - Syaoran's ex-fiancée
I unlocked my apartment door and walked in, faced with the same drab room that I'd been faced with since I'd moved in years ago. The front room had yellowing walls and the essential pieces of furniture: couch, end tables, recliner. The spot where a television stood in most homes was blank - I was too busy to watch anything, and none of the programs were interesting, anyway. Behind the front room there was a cramped kitchen and dining room. A small table stood to one side, while the other was occupied by kitchen utensils. Off to the left was my bedroom and bathroom, decorated as sparsely as possible. A teacher didn't make a great income, and I had no need for excess.
I took off my shoes and replaced them with my favorite, green house slippers, flipping on the lights as I did so. After sitting the recliner, I placed my briefcase on the floor, pulling out papers that I needed to look through. There were lesson plans for the next school day, worksheets we had done in my classes, and information on the self defense club.
After a while of working, someone knocked on the door. I frowned; no one ever visited me. Putting my papers aside with an annoyed grunt, I stood up and walked to the door. Out of habit, I looked through the security peephole.
What I saw earned a groan from me: Meiling.
Meiling and I had been betrothed a few years back. She was an acquaintance of mine through the Li clan, and she'd been fascinated with me since we'd first met during childhood. She'd frequently trained with me, and eventually she'd asked the Elders for an arranged marriage. Of course they agreed, and so we were betrothed. Eventually my sisters called me up to discuss the marriage, and I was shocked: I was engaged? What was that girl thinking? I broke off the engagement as soon as was possible and left things at that.
I opened the door and stood aside, welcoming her in. She smiled at me and squealed, "Syaoran!" She threw her arms around me, black hair flying everywhere, and kissed my unyielding mouth. I pushed her back, closed the door, and walked back to my chair.
Smiling uncontrollably, she sat down across me on the couch, practically bursting with excitement. "Oh, Syaoran, I'm so glad I found you!" she cried. "The Elders didn't want to give me your address, but I kept on trying, and finally they gave in!" Pausing for a second, she looked around, red eyes flicking everywhere. "Syaoran, your apartment is so...drab," she finally said, looking back at me.
"I prefer it that way," I replied, full well knowing I was lying. I hated my apartment. "Meiling," I asked, "why did you come here?" I'd been warned of her impending arrival a few days ago by my youngest sister- she'd felt it her duty to inform me, and she was never against a little gossiping.
"Why, to get you back, of course," she answered, as if it were obvious. "I don't know why you broke off the engagement, but I'm here to convince you to marry me."
"Meiling, I broke off the engagement because I wasn't in love with you," I stated stiffly.
"Oh." She pouted briefly, then looked back up at me. "Well, then, I'll get you to fall in love with me! Ne, Syaoran, when do you want to go on a date?"
I reached up to rub my temples; I felt a headache coming on, and it wasn't small. "Um...can I wait a few days, Meiling?"
"Sure!" She rifled about in her purse for a second, then came up with a pad of paper and a pen. She scribbled on it and reached out to give a piece to me. "Here's my information on where I'm staying. Call me whenever you -"
Bring bring. Bring bring. We looked at the phone, surprise registering with us both. I'd never gotten phone calls - they were as infrequent as visitors.
Meiling reached the phone before I did, picking it up and saying, "Hello? Li residence." Surprise was evidently expressed on her face, then she turned to me. "It's for you. A Ms. Kinomoto...?" She said the name as if it was offending to the ear.
I grabbed the phone from her. "Moshi moshi?" I asked, slipping into her preferred Japanese and wondering why she was calling me.
"Li-san?" answered a tentative voice I recognized as Kinomoto's.
"Hai. What is it?"
"Well, I noticed a problem with the homework.... The assignment is over chapter two, when the students are just starting chapter one."
I mentally slapped my head. I was such an idiot! "Arigatou for notifying me, Kinomoto-san. Don't do the homework - I'll notify the class on Monday." I hung up and replaced the phone on its stand, noticing Meiling's questioning yet demanding look.
"Syaoran...," she began, "who is Ms. Kinomoto?"
I sighed. "Ms. Kinomoto is my student teacher. She called to say that she found a problem in my assignment." A possessive look was still in Meiling's eyes, but I ignored it. I glanced at my watch and saw that it was getting late. "You'd better go, Meiling. I still have work to do, and it's late." I picked up the card and placed it near the phone before standing up. I walked her to the door, where I dismissed her.
~*~*~*~*~*~
The next day was a Saturday, but I woke up bright and early nonetheless. I dressed in practice clothes and drove to the high school, running drills in the empty gym. Afterwards, I went back home and showered, dressing in a comfortable outfit of T-shirt and jeans.
Sitting again in my recliner, I picked up two pieces of paper: the envelope with 'Meiling' on it and the paper Meiling had given me. A phone number and address glared up at me from the latter, and I suspected that Meiling was staying at a hotel until she could find an apartment. The envelope held the letter my sister had sent me, informing me of Meiling's arrival. I hadn't wanted to believe it, but apparently she had been right.
Sighing, I thought about my situation. I didn't really want to "court" Meiling (I winced at the thought), but she gave me no other choice. She was known for being persistent and getting what she wanted, no matter what. If I refused to take her out, she'd bug me until I was worn out. That left me with one choice, until I could think of something better - give her what she wanted.
I was reaching for the phone, every cell in my body resisting, when it rang. I yanked my outstretched arm back in surprise. What if it was Meiling?
Don't be silly, I chided myself. It could be someone else.
Angry at how paranoid I was being, I growled and picked up the phone. "Hello?" I heard myself ask.
"Aa, Li-kun!" said a Japanese voice I knew too well.
"Hai, Hiiragizawa-san?"
"I'm just calling to remind you about the party tonight. I wouldn't want you to miss it. You don't socialize enough, as it is. Will you be there at seven?"
"Un."
"Good! Ja." Hiiragizawa-san hung up, and I put the phone back.
Leaning back in my chair, I smacked my forehead. I had completely forgotten about the party! Hiiragizawa-san always held a party to commemorate the start of a new school year, and everyone was forced to attend. It was a chance to meet new teachers and student teachers, he said, but I believe he just liked hounding me into these things. He still does, in fact.
I glanced at my watch and saw that it was only eleven in the morning. I had a good seven hours to spare until I had to start getting ready, if I wanted to make a prompt appearance. I wasn't really in the mood to call Meiling anymore, and, if I remembered correctly, I was getting a bit low on food.
I'll go grocery shopping, then, I thought.
I got up and walked over to my refrigerator, opening the metal door to peer into its depths. Right now all I had was some catsup, an almost empty carton of orange juice, and a jar of old pickles. I picked of the jar of pickles in disgust and dumped it into my trashcan, then turned back to the fridge. I was still faced with the same things, so I drank the rest of the orange juice, threw the carton away, then closed the door and went to get my shoes.
Shrugging into my jacket - fall was approaching - I closed and locked my door, then headed out to my car. It took five minutes to get to the nearest grocery store. I parked, then grabbed a cart and started to roam the aisles.
By the time I reached the ice cream section, my cart was full of snack foods, produce, and sandwich supplies. I was debating over whether or not to get the box of chocolate almond ice cream when another cart crashed into mine headlong.
"I'm so sorry!" cried a voice I vaguely recognized. My head whipped over to stare at the flushing girl in front of me. By her auburn hair and downcast emerald eyes I placed her as Kinomoto.
"It's all right. Nothing's broken," I told her, staying in English. It wouldn't do to speak Japanese in a public place. She started and stared at me in horror.
"Mr. Li! I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to...."
"As I said, it's okay. Now, why were you going so fast?" I was amazed at how nice I was being. Normally I would rip the head off of anyone so reckless.
"I told Tomoyo I'd hurry, so she wouldn't be late for Eriol...." Horror erupted again on her face. "Tomoyo-chan! I forgot!" She hurriedly grabbed some frozen items and pushed her cart away. "Sayonara, Mr. Li," she mumbled, probably not realizing that in her sudden spurt of rush she began speaking in her native tongue.
"I'll see you at Mr. Hiiragizawa's party," I said, having no control over my voice box.
Kinomoto look startled, then smiled. "I'll see you there, Mr. Li." She headed off in the other direction, presumably to the registers.
I smiled slightly, then shook my head. What was I doing? I had never been more than civil to any one of my student teachers, so why was I acting friendly now? Angry again at myself, I threw the box of ice cream as if it were at blame for my behavior into my cart and marched to the check-outs.
When I got home, I made my way up to my apartment, cursing the amount of items I had to buy. With so many, and only one person, it took numerous trips to carry them all. Eventually I had them up and packed away, and I could relax.
I sat in my recliner, ice cream box and spoon in hand, and starting working on my papers. Sure, it may not be the most nutritious lunch, but it was more comforting than something healthy. I worked away, recording grades and staring at the pages until my eyes hurt.
Finally taking a small stretch break, I rubbed my eyes and looked at my watch. Kuso! It was 6:28 p.m. Time flies when you're having fun, eh? I dashed into my small bedroom and changed my clothes. From past experience, I knew that it would be semi-formal, requiring me to dress nice, but not in a tux. I dressed in nice slacks and a green shirt. Green is my favorite color, after all. I grabbed a pair of nice shoes and dashed to the front room, trading slippers for shoes. I'd neglected to change socks when I'd changed, and I'd just have to hope that no one would notice the white cotton.
A quick glance in the mirror by my door told me that my hair was passable, and I bolted out the door, barely remembering to get my keys in time. I had to make a trip back for my jacket, and by the time I was ready to leave, it was 6:42. I raced down the stairs, threw myself into my car, and left.
Eriol had reserved a room at the Rec. Center for the party, and I reached there with three minutes to spare. The room was nicely decorated, with streamers of the school colors hanging artfully from the ceiling and posters on the walls, courtesy of Daidouji. There was a table of food off to the right, arranged by the school chefs. They appreciated the chance to prove once a year that they were capable of making more than cheap pizza, and it was loaded with edibles. Occasional tables with chairs finished the look, and a disc jockey was set up in the corner.
"Li-san!" called Hiiragizawa-san, waving from by the food table. "This punch is delicious!" I nodded and headed over to the table, eye set on the dim sum platter. One of the things that hadn't left me since my departure from China was a love for dim sum, and I wanted to see how these American cooks fared.
I grabbed a paper plate, napkin, cup, and utensils and loaded up my plate with dim sum, saving room for those little sandwiches people eat at parties. I moved down the table and ladled punch into my cup. "You'd best be careful," Hiiragizawa-san warned when I started to move away. "You never know if someone has spiked the punch." He winked behind his glasses, then turned back to Daidouji. Shaking my head, I sought out a table in a secluded corner of the room, where I could eat in peace.
Daidouji found me a while after I'd finished my food, as I was daydreaming. She cleared her throat, and I looked up, blinking. Daidouji was marvelous in a gown of deep navy, which contrasted beautifully with her pale skin. Her violet locks were kept back by a heavy barrette, her amethyst eyes calm. "Li-san, would you dance with me?" She smiled innocently; she was anything but. Chances were she had been sent over by Hiiragizawa-san to force me to interact.
"Of course," I responded, standing up. I'd been taught to dance when I was little, using Meiling or my youngest sister as a dance partner, and I was well-versed in the styles. We started onto the dance floor, and I led her smoothly.
"So, Li-san," she said in Japanese. It was her preferred language, too, even if it might make those around us uncomfortable. "How has teaching been this year? The students any tougher than last year?"
"Iie. They're just the same as ever, always trying to get out of work and slack off. How have yours been? Any new art prodigies?"
Daidouji smiled. "They're just as messy, but some show a little talent. It's amazing what these students can turn out when they try. For example, I've had them painting a still life recently, and one student decided that, instead of paint the scene with normal colors, they'd reverse them. It's making for a beautiful effect. Would you like to come down and see it some time?"
"Hai," I replied. I may not be much of a one for mingling, but I can when I'm forced to. There's nothing like being impolite at a public function to earn disapproval from the Elders. "Is it like the negative of a photograph?"
Daidouji nodded. "Just about, but the colors aren't exactly correct." She giggled. "Li-san, I never knew you could actually carry on a conversation."
I made a face. "Arigatou, Daidouji-san," I said stiffly.
She batted my arm lightly. "Oh, I'm just being silly." She straightened, then looked me in the eye. "How are things between you and Sakura-chan?" Somehow I knew this had been the focus of her conversation. I felt the first pang of a headache and hid a grimace, hoping it would go away.
"All right," I answered, not untruthfully. Things had been going better between us, if not as well as I'd like. "She's very stubborn, isn't she?"
"Un. She wouldn't be Sakura-chan if she weren't." She grinned, pearly teeth glinting. "Don't be too hard on her, Li-san."
"Na -" I was cut off by Hiiragizawa-san.
"May I cut in?" he asked silkily.
"Hai," I replied. Daidouji stepped aside to dance with Hiiragizawa-san, and I moved to see Hiiragizawa-san's dance partner. Just my luck - it was Kinomoto. She looked nervous, but I stepped over and offered my arm to her. Obviously startled, she took it, and I started to lead.
Kinomoto had her hair back, for once seeming to take the time to do something with it other than a ponytail. It was plaited down her back, a few strands left to frame her face. Her dress was a pale pink color, giving her a sun-kissed effect that contrasted with her eyes. She smiled at me sheepishly. "Konbanwa, Li-san."
"Konbanwa, Kinomoto-san. Are you enjoying yourself?"
"Un. I never really knew how many teachers there were...." She looked around, eyes wide. She's cute, I thought, before catching myself. "Ne, Li-san," she started, sounding awkward, "who answered your phone yesterday?"
"An acquaintance of mine," I answered, refusing to give out information about my private life to fuel gossip and curt from the headache. Enough was said about me as it was.
"Aa." She stared into space for a while, lost in thought.
"Kinomoto-san," I said after some time, "arigatou for telling me about the assignment. I wouldn't have caught it if you hadn't...."
"Hmm?" she asked, coming to attention. "Oh. Douitashimashite. I just hope the poor students aren't too confused." She giggled into her hand. "Li-san, you're a really great dancer."
I couldn't repress the blush tinting my cheeks. "Arigatou. I was taught when I was little, by my mother. I always had my sisters as dance partners, and they'd boss me around...."
Kinomoto laughed. "You have sisters?"
"Hai. Four of them, really." My head was feeling light, for some reason.
Kinomoto nodded. "I know what you mean. I have an older brother, and he always teased me." She smiled wistfully. "I do miss him, though. Do you miss your sisters?"
"Hai," I answered, surprised that I actually did. It had been lonely with just me for the past few years. All of a sudden, the room spun a little, and my headache grew. I reached up to rub my temple and heard myself ask, "Can we sit down for a little?"
"Oh!" cried Kinomoto, eyes wide with worry. "Daijoubu desu ka?" She led me to a table close to the cleared area and moved to sit opposite me.
"H...hai," I answered. "It's just a headache." I was lying, and I knew it. "Maybe some punch...." I started to stand up, and the pain in my forehead increased. I sat back down hard and clutched my forehead.
"Li-san, you stay here. I'll get some water." Kinomoto stood up and rushed over to the refreshments table, grabbed a cup, then went to the water fountain by the wall, filling it up. She came back over and pressed it into my hand. "Drink this. I heard that Eriol-kun spiked the punch." She smiled a little crookedly. "Maybe alcohol doesn't agree with you."
I murmured my thanks and drank the water, trying not to go too fast. "I should probably go home...." I tried to stand up, but the room spun, and I fell back into my chair.
"Hoe!" Kinomoto reached out to touch my forehead and yanked her hand back. "You're burning up! You need to get home, but you can't take yourself...." She bit her lip in thought. "I'll just have to take you home," she decided, eyes confidant. "Can you stay awake to tell me how to reach your house?" I nodded dimly. "Good. Tomoyo-san!" She turned to beckon Daidouji.
"Hai?" Daidouji asked as she reached us.
"Li-san is sick, so I'm going to take him home. Can you take the car home yourself?"
"Hai. Sakura-chan...." Daidouji looked hesitant. "Are you sure this is the best idea? Maybe Eriol-kun could take him home."
"Iie. Eriol-kun is the host and has to entertain everyone. I don't want it to be a burden on him. Arigatou, Tomoyo-san." Kinomoto smiled at her briefly, then turned back to me. "Now, Li-san. May I have your keys?"
"They're in my jacket," I said, pointing to the coat rack.
"Aa. Well, we'll just have to get them." She stood up and eased me into a standing position, leaning me against her shoulder. Slowly she walked me over until I was able to grab my coat and pull it off the hanger. She fished around in the pockets until she came up with a set of keys. Then she led me outside, and I led her to my car. She unlocked it and shoved me into the passenger seat, taking the driver's side for herself. "Which way do we go?" she asked me.
"Head down Fifth Street," I said. "Heading east." She nodded and started the car, going down Fifth. Eventually I told her to turn down a street, then pull into the large parking lot by my apartment complex. She stopped the car and got out, helping me out as well. "Apartment 36," I said. She nodded and marched me into the building, into the elevator, and down the hall to my apartment. Clutching the keys, she unlocked my door and ushered me in.
"Now, you need to sit down," she said, helping me to my room and into my bed. We'd neglected to take our shoes off, and I hoped that I wouldn't have to sweep too much afterwards. "I'll get you a damp washcloth...." She bustled off to the kitchen, and the last thing I remembered was a cool cloth on my skin.
TBC
C-Mage: So, how was it? We left you with a beautiful cliffhanger.... Don't you just love us? ^.~ Oh, Tomoyo and Eriol are great. *o* Now, what's going to happen when Sakura takes care of Syaoran...? Heehee.
T.Anjel: You know what? I would like to thank you…yes YOU! For reading this. Do you like? Do you like? I don't care if you don't like, cuz I like. ^___^ ;; I love this cliffhanger too…can you just feel the love?!?!
I thank you for reading, but I'll love you if you review.