T.Anjel: Hope no one's losing interest. =0
C-Mage: Sorry this took so long, minna-san! *hides* Call it procrastination in the extreme.... -.-' Many thanks to the reviewers. Thanks you all, we have over 300 reviews! *o* That's...a lot per chapter! XD Amazing. Doumo arigatou gozaimasu! *glomps all readers* And let's all rejoice that I have Word back, because Works sucks.... *glowers at Works* *readers sweatdrop* Or...not? *wince*
Disclaimers: All CCS characters belong to CLAMP.
Summary: Sakura gets hurt and recuperates...somewhat. ^.^'
Learn to Love Me – Chapter 15 – Sakura's Many Lows
I thundered out of the school, not even able to comprehend Li-san's actions a few minutes ago. He kissed me! What right did that man have to kiss me? I was in a fit of anger that I wasn't used to, the emotion so overwhelming that I began to cry. I made it safely to the parking lot and into the driver's seat of Tomoyo-chan and my shared car. I stuck the key in the ignition and hastily wiped my tears away, taking a couple of deep breaths. Calm down, Sakura, I told myself.
Tear residue fogged my vision, and I waited another minute for it to clear. When I didn't have the patience to wait anymore, I pressed down on the accelerator and zoomed out of the lot. I was breathing heavily, and I knew I wasn't acting like myself.
I hated that Li-san did this to me. My feelings weren't a toy to be played around with.
In my anger, I accelerated more, feeling the urge to get home and take a nice, long, hot shower. "Shit!" I yelled at myself as I sped over a pothole, causing Tomoyo-chan's now cold morning coffee to spill over my lap as it escaped the feeble cup holder. I blindly reached at the glove compartment for tissues but couldn't find any. My eyes left the road for one second to see if there were any tissues. Before I could take one, I heard a screech. My eyes quickly went to the rearview mirror, and I saw a red sports car out of control, speeding towards me with no remorse. I instinctively swerved to my left, and all went black.
~*~*~*~*~*~
I woke up in a haze, but my stiff body belied any thoughts I had of being comfy in my own bed. My first task was to drag open heavy eyelids. When I did, artificial light pounded at my brain. I opened them again slowly, adjusting my eyes to the white room and bright light.
"Sakura!" I heard worried voices cry in unison.
I tried to speak, but found my mouth was completely dry and cracked. I felt a cold glass held against my lips. I gladly choked down a slow stream of water as it struggled to trickle down my tight throat.
Mouth less dry, I looked around the white room, trying to remember how I'd gotten here. I vaguely remembered a red sports car, pain, and being moved around on a stretcher. I looked at my left arm, and a thin, clear cord sprouted from my wrist. In my haze I recognized it as an IV. My other arm was wrapped in a cast. The hospital, then. I'd been in a crash.
"Daijoubu?" Tomoyo-chan asked, concern lining her pale face and violet eyes.
"Hai," I said. I smiled weakly. "Gomen." I found it hard to speak with my mouth still a little dry.
"Don't you ever do that again, kaijuu," 'Nii-chan scolded, using my old nickname. He was standing next to 'Tou-san at the foot of the bed, while Tomoyo-chan sat next to me. He looked extremely relieved.
I nodded and glanced at the clock hanging over the door. It was just past eleven. From the closed curtains, I assumed it was evening.
"I'm tired," I announced quietly. A three-way glance was exchanged before 'Tou-san and 'Nii-chan left the room, leaving Tomoyo-chan. I was glad. I closed my eyes, wanting a rest from the bright lights that were already becoming overpowering.
"I didn't tell him, but he'll find out soon enough," Tomoyo-chan said softly. I opened my eyes to look at her as she took a seat by my bed. She didn't need to tell me whom she was talking about, but I asked anyway.
"Who?"
"Li-san," she replied knowingly. "He was worried about you, after your...fight." She looked at my speculatively.
"I'm fine," I answered back quickly, like a stubborn child. I stared at the ceiling.
I could've sworn I heard Tomoyo-san smile. "You know, you've only been working with us for a few months. It's amazing that Li-san's developed such...strong feelings for you in that short time." She sighed. "What he did was wrong, but you need to forgive him, Sakura-chan." I wanted to argue back but had no energy to...or at least that's what I told myself.
"Li-san's a good man," she said. "But he's lonely."
I turned to look at her, curious despite myself.
"He lives alone, eats alone, and works alone. That Meiling is the only person that really consistently bothers for his attention. Look, Sakura-chan. Li-san may have just expressed himself in the wrong way. It's been a while since he's worked with someone so closely."
"What are you trying to say?" I asked. Tomoyo-san sounded like she was speaking riddles.
"He needs a good friend," she replied.
"He can get plenty of friends!" I argued.
"It's hard," Tomoyo-san said. "He grew up where he was constantly training, being disciplined, and working. His social life, even as a child, consisted of only his family. Why do you think he became a teacher?" I shrugged at the rhetorical question. "He wanted to be around people. Even if he didn't interact with them, he just needed their presence there." Tomoyo-san smiled. "You have to understand, Sakura-chan, that he just needs a good friend." She laughed lightly. "I guess he just didn't know how to tell you."
I smiled weakly. A friend? The word sounded dull to my ears. I felt my past anger towards Li-san ebb away, nonetheless.
"I'll stop by tomorrow after school ends," Tomoyo-san promised me, breaking through my thoughts.
"Okay," I said. "Thanks." She gave me her usual smile and a wave and headed towards the door. Curious, I called out, "Tomoyo-san?"
"Hai?" She turned slightly.
"How'd you learn all that? Li-san doesn't seem like the type to...open up."
Tomoyo-san laughed. "Oh, that? Well, you'd be amazed at what Eriol- san can learn when he's determined enough." She gave a wry smile and slipped out the door. After the door swung closed, I relaxed into the already dented pillow. That's right, Li-san, I thought. Let's be friends.
Just friends.
~*~*~*~*~*~
I woke up a little before noon the next day. A few check-ups and some waiting later, I was told I'd be released as soon as someone came to get me. I'd have to come back later for more check-ups, though, and not overexert myself.
I read a couple of magazines and watched television until four, when I saw the door open. "Tomoyo-san! I have good news...." I paused when I realized it was Li-san at the door.
"Oh...Li-san," I said, barely able to look him in the face just yet, cheeks burning.
He stood nervously at the door. "I just wanted to know if you were okay."
I nodded. "Come in," I urged, sitting up in the bed.
Li-san hesitated before coming in and seating himself a few feet from the bed. He came with a basket of fruits. How sweet.
He stared at his fiddling fingers. I kept quiet, not wanting to break his train of thought.
I jumped slightly when he started to speak abruptly, "I just...wanted to apologize for yesterday." He looked up at me, amber eyes beseeching me not to interrupt. "I wasn't thinking properly, and I was just completely out of it. It was not in my place to do what I did, Ms. Kinomoto. If I hadn't done what I did...." He looked solemnly at my arm.
"Oh! You're not at all at fault for this," I quickly said, gesturing to my arm. "I wasn't paying attention to the road!"
"Why?"
"Why?" I repeated slowly. "I was looking for a tissue in the glove compartment," I said. "That's all."
He didn't look convinced but didn't push the subject further, either. "I'm really sorry. Whether you want to continue to work with me is completely your decision, and I would understand if you move to another district. I moved a working relationship to somewhere it shouldn't be. Please accept my apology."
I held still, idly thinking over his apology. It sounded like Li-san prepared that all day, as with all things. "Yes...of course," I replied. "It's just...I'm sorry, too."
Li-san looked surprised.
"I overreacted, and I was being emotional. All this that happened to me," I again indicated my arm, "is my fault. Let's just put this behind us, Li-san." It all sounded like some cheesy line from an old movie, but I didn't care. I disliked awkward relationships.
"So, friends?" I asked with a smile, extending my left hand as far as it would go.
He thought for a minute before slipping his warm, callused one into mine and clasping it firmly. "Friends," he repeated, voice solemn.
That said, he gave the slightest of smiles, eyes warming, and left with a mumbled "feel better." I sank back into the cushy pillows, content. Now all I had to do was wait for my arm to heal, and things would go back to normal.
~*~*~*~*~*~
The school told me to stay home for a couple of day, as a precaution. I thought I could actually use the break, but I found myself dead bored on the first day off from work. Books, magazines, or the TV didn't interest me. I had no papers to grade, I was contentedly full, I'd already taken a shower, and I found no interesting books in the house.
I groaned to myself as I flopped on the plush couch, eyes closing in frustration. I need a hobby, I thought. I glanced at the clock. It was just past three, unimaginably. Time was going so slowly all of a sudden! And, with the art club today, Tomoyo-san would be later than usual.
"Sakura-chan."
I turned in my seat to find 'Tou-san making his way to the living room.
"Touya and my flight back to Japan is tomorrow," 'Tou-san told me, taking a seat next to me. "With the accident, we plan on staying another week or two...."
"Oh, don't do that!" I exclaimed, interrupting him. "Both of you are bored stiff enough as it is. Go back home and to work, 'Tou-san. Even if you were to stay here just because of me, what would you do? Serve me at my every beck and call?" I scolded 'Tou-san with a pout. "And I'm only going to be home for a few days."
"You need someone to watch over you," he argued back softly.
"Don't worry," I replied. "Tomoyo-chan is here, and I can really do everything else myself." 'Tou-san was about to argue again, but I quickly intercepted. "Please, just go. You've been here long enough to see how I'm doing. I'll call often and tell you how I'm doing. I promise, okay?"
'Tou-san thought for a second before smiling warmly at me. He nodded with an "okay." I hugged him awkwardly from my position, avoiding putting any strain on my arm.
Just then, the doorbell rang. "I got it," 'Tou-san said, getting up from the couch and to the front door. "Oh, hello, David," I heard him say.
I was honestly not in the mood to talk to David, but company was company. He strode into the living room and sat on the matching flower- printed couch across from me.
"Hey," he started with a cocky grin.
"Hi," I replied with not much enthusiasm.
A second passed before he spoke again, "I got great news! I'm going to study abroad in Europe!"
"Wha...Europe? That's great!" I exclaimed a little too awkwardly. Not to sound selfish, but the man didn't even bother to ask me about my arm. And Europe?! This was such random news.
David scratched his head embarrassingly as if he won a contest of some sort. "Well, my father and I came to some little agreement with how long I was going to study for and the payment and everything."
I forced myself to smile, however weakly. What else was I supposed to do?
"Are...you okay, Sakura?" David asked me, peering closely at my face. "You seem a little upset."
"No! I'm fine! It's just...when are you leaving?"
"Maybe a month from now. The school has to find a replacement teacher for me. It's kind of a hassle, but I think this study trip is definitely worth it." He still had that stupid, goofy grin on his face.
"I guess that means we're breaking up," I said with not much remorse. "It...."
"No!" David interrupted gallantly. "I'll call you every day!"
I was at a loss for words.
"C'mon, Sakura! Cheer up! It's going to be a great experience for me!" David exclaimed. "This is the only thing I've ever asked for. Please be happy for me." His voice was wheedling, as if he was trying to sound cute enough to convince me.
I mentally snorted, but nodded. "Okay."
He gave an answering smirk and said, "See you, babe."
"'Bye," I grumbled before he left the room.
"Oh, yeah! How's that arm?" he called from the front door. Before I could open my mouth to shout an answer, he interrupted, "That's good to hear! 'Bye!" And the door slammed shut.
How aggravating that man could be sometimes, I thought to myself. Going to Europe! Now, isn't that a casual idea? My restlessness made my aggravation and sarcasm grow. I grumbled nonsense under my breath. I needed to go out. Even if it was just on the front lawn, I knew it would do me some good.
I hitched myself up off the couch and headed out to the front door.
"Where do you think you're going?" 'Nii-chan asked me, peering questioningly from the stairs.
"I'm going to look at the clouds," I replied haughtily and marched out the door.
Frustrating as the day was, I found my feelings cooled by the beautiful fall day. I lay comfortably on the grass and closed my eyes, feeling the wind brush across my exposed skin.
"You could catch a cold if you stayed outside too long," a voice called.
I opened my eyes with a start. I realized I'd fallen asleep when I saw the sun about to set. I rubbed my eyes and saw Tomoyo-chan coming up the front porch.
"What are you doing out here?" she asked with a laugh. She was coming from school.
"Enjoying the scenery," I croaked in my morning voice.
"With your eyes closed obviously," Tomoyo-san said smiling. "Come in, help me make dinner."
I nodded and got up precariously, following Tomoyo-san.
"Oh, and Li-san asked me if you would mind grading homework he collected in class," she said, setting down her bag at the entrance of the kitchen. She flipped through the contents quickly and whipped out a thick folder. She handed it to me. "A little something for you to do while you're healing. Just take it back with you when you're better."
I nodded and held the folder awkwardly in my left hand. How was I supposed to grade things one-handed? I didn't think that had occurred to Li-san.
"I'll take care of dinner; you get started on that homework," Tomoyo- chan said, shooing me off to my room. "It'll take you long enough," she said wryly. I stuck my tongue out at her before striding to my room and sitting at the old desk.
I opened up the folder to see a neat stack of messily written homework. The majority of them were probably done during their lunch period or before they went in the classroom. I smiled at one of the assignments. The kid accidentally turned in his math homework.
I quickly scanned the stack and came upon another little bunch of papers neatly bound with a rubber band. I just about cried at all the handmade get-well cards some of the students made me. Tony and Alex, the troublemakers, had made a card together. The cover had a stick figure that was looking with horror at its stump of a right arm, which was spurting blood. Somehow I didn't think Li-san had checked these before collecting them.
"Get better quick, Ms. Kinomoto," they'd written. "Mr. Li's been in an abnormally bad mood and is giving us too much homework. Come back and help us out!" I giggled. That was certainly true to character for Li-san.
At the bottom of the stack, there was another card, neater by far. On the cover, it had the Japanese calligraphy for "health." I smiled; this could only have come from one person. Holding the card open awkwardly with my fingers, I read, "I'm sorry. Please feel better soon." A corner of my mouth quirked up. Again, how like Li-san.
I lightly touched the calligraphy on the cover, before realizing that I only wanted to be Li-san's friend. Trying to shove back the emotions the card had brought out in me, I stacked the cards up haphazardly and shoved them to a corner of my desk. Taking a deep breath to clear my mind and strengthen my resolve, I clutched my grading pen – the one Tomoyo-chan had gotten me when she'd first heard about my wanting to be a teacher – and set to work tackling the daunting stack of homework.
TBC.
C-Mage: Oh, and I'd also like to give out a shout-out to my sister, my one and only, Satsuki-chan. Without her, I'd take a lot longer to write, and the plots of Hooded and Learn to Love Me wouldn't be the same. *grins* Hope you enjoyed it, for all its shortness! .
T.Anjel: sorry... so late and short. =(
C-Mage: Sorry this took so long, minna-san! *hides* Call it procrastination in the extreme.... -.-' Many thanks to the reviewers. Thanks you all, we have over 300 reviews! *o* That's...a lot per chapter! XD Amazing. Doumo arigatou gozaimasu! *glomps all readers* And let's all rejoice that I have Word back, because Works sucks.... *glowers at Works* *readers sweatdrop* Or...not? *wince*
Disclaimers: All CCS characters belong to CLAMP.
Summary: Sakura gets hurt and recuperates...somewhat. ^.^'
Learn to Love Me – Chapter 15 – Sakura's Many Lows
I thundered out of the school, not even able to comprehend Li-san's actions a few minutes ago. He kissed me! What right did that man have to kiss me? I was in a fit of anger that I wasn't used to, the emotion so overwhelming that I began to cry. I made it safely to the parking lot and into the driver's seat of Tomoyo-chan and my shared car. I stuck the key in the ignition and hastily wiped my tears away, taking a couple of deep breaths. Calm down, Sakura, I told myself.
Tear residue fogged my vision, and I waited another minute for it to clear. When I didn't have the patience to wait anymore, I pressed down on the accelerator and zoomed out of the lot. I was breathing heavily, and I knew I wasn't acting like myself.
I hated that Li-san did this to me. My feelings weren't a toy to be played around with.
In my anger, I accelerated more, feeling the urge to get home and take a nice, long, hot shower. "Shit!" I yelled at myself as I sped over a pothole, causing Tomoyo-chan's now cold morning coffee to spill over my lap as it escaped the feeble cup holder. I blindly reached at the glove compartment for tissues but couldn't find any. My eyes left the road for one second to see if there were any tissues. Before I could take one, I heard a screech. My eyes quickly went to the rearview mirror, and I saw a red sports car out of control, speeding towards me with no remorse. I instinctively swerved to my left, and all went black.
~*~*~*~*~*~
I woke up in a haze, but my stiff body belied any thoughts I had of being comfy in my own bed. My first task was to drag open heavy eyelids. When I did, artificial light pounded at my brain. I opened them again slowly, adjusting my eyes to the white room and bright light.
"Sakura!" I heard worried voices cry in unison.
I tried to speak, but found my mouth was completely dry and cracked. I felt a cold glass held against my lips. I gladly choked down a slow stream of water as it struggled to trickle down my tight throat.
Mouth less dry, I looked around the white room, trying to remember how I'd gotten here. I vaguely remembered a red sports car, pain, and being moved around on a stretcher. I looked at my left arm, and a thin, clear cord sprouted from my wrist. In my haze I recognized it as an IV. My other arm was wrapped in a cast. The hospital, then. I'd been in a crash.
"Daijoubu?" Tomoyo-chan asked, concern lining her pale face and violet eyes.
"Hai," I said. I smiled weakly. "Gomen." I found it hard to speak with my mouth still a little dry.
"Don't you ever do that again, kaijuu," 'Nii-chan scolded, using my old nickname. He was standing next to 'Tou-san at the foot of the bed, while Tomoyo-chan sat next to me. He looked extremely relieved.
I nodded and glanced at the clock hanging over the door. It was just past eleven. From the closed curtains, I assumed it was evening.
"I'm tired," I announced quietly. A three-way glance was exchanged before 'Tou-san and 'Nii-chan left the room, leaving Tomoyo-chan. I was glad. I closed my eyes, wanting a rest from the bright lights that were already becoming overpowering.
"I didn't tell him, but he'll find out soon enough," Tomoyo-chan said softly. I opened my eyes to look at her as she took a seat by my bed. She didn't need to tell me whom she was talking about, but I asked anyway.
"Who?"
"Li-san," she replied knowingly. "He was worried about you, after your...fight." She looked at my speculatively.
"I'm fine," I answered back quickly, like a stubborn child. I stared at the ceiling.
I could've sworn I heard Tomoyo-san smile. "You know, you've only been working with us for a few months. It's amazing that Li-san's developed such...strong feelings for you in that short time." She sighed. "What he did was wrong, but you need to forgive him, Sakura-chan." I wanted to argue back but had no energy to...or at least that's what I told myself.
"Li-san's a good man," she said. "But he's lonely."
I turned to look at her, curious despite myself.
"He lives alone, eats alone, and works alone. That Meiling is the only person that really consistently bothers for his attention. Look, Sakura-chan. Li-san may have just expressed himself in the wrong way. It's been a while since he's worked with someone so closely."
"What are you trying to say?" I asked. Tomoyo-san sounded like she was speaking riddles.
"He needs a good friend," she replied.
"He can get plenty of friends!" I argued.
"It's hard," Tomoyo-san said. "He grew up where he was constantly training, being disciplined, and working. His social life, even as a child, consisted of only his family. Why do you think he became a teacher?" I shrugged at the rhetorical question. "He wanted to be around people. Even if he didn't interact with them, he just needed their presence there." Tomoyo-san smiled. "You have to understand, Sakura-chan, that he just needs a good friend." She laughed lightly. "I guess he just didn't know how to tell you."
I smiled weakly. A friend? The word sounded dull to my ears. I felt my past anger towards Li-san ebb away, nonetheless.
"I'll stop by tomorrow after school ends," Tomoyo-san promised me, breaking through my thoughts.
"Okay," I said. "Thanks." She gave me her usual smile and a wave and headed towards the door. Curious, I called out, "Tomoyo-san?"
"Hai?" She turned slightly.
"How'd you learn all that? Li-san doesn't seem like the type to...open up."
Tomoyo-san laughed. "Oh, that? Well, you'd be amazed at what Eriol- san can learn when he's determined enough." She gave a wry smile and slipped out the door. After the door swung closed, I relaxed into the already dented pillow. That's right, Li-san, I thought. Let's be friends.
Just friends.
~*~*~*~*~*~
I woke up a little before noon the next day. A few check-ups and some waiting later, I was told I'd be released as soon as someone came to get me. I'd have to come back later for more check-ups, though, and not overexert myself.
I read a couple of magazines and watched television until four, when I saw the door open. "Tomoyo-san! I have good news...." I paused when I realized it was Li-san at the door.
"Oh...Li-san," I said, barely able to look him in the face just yet, cheeks burning.
He stood nervously at the door. "I just wanted to know if you were okay."
I nodded. "Come in," I urged, sitting up in the bed.
Li-san hesitated before coming in and seating himself a few feet from the bed. He came with a basket of fruits. How sweet.
He stared at his fiddling fingers. I kept quiet, not wanting to break his train of thought.
I jumped slightly when he started to speak abruptly, "I just...wanted to apologize for yesterday." He looked up at me, amber eyes beseeching me not to interrupt. "I wasn't thinking properly, and I was just completely out of it. It was not in my place to do what I did, Ms. Kinomoto. If I hadn't done what I did...." He looked solemnly at my arm.
"Oh! You're not at all at fault for this," I quickly said, gesturing to my arm. "I wasn't paying attention to the road!"
"Why?"
"Why?" I repeated slowly. "I was looking for a tissue in the glove compartment," I said. "That's all."
He didn't look convinced but didn't push the subject further, either. "I'm really sorry. Whether you want to continue to work with me is completely your decision, and I would understand if you move to another district. I moved a working relationship to somewhere it shouldn't be. Please accept my apology."
I held still, idly thinking over his apology. It sounded like Li-san prepared that all day, as with all things. "Yes...of course," I replied. "It's just...I'm sorry, too."
Li-san looked surprised.
"I overreacted, and I was being emotional. All this that happened to me," I again indicated my arm, "is my fault. Let's just put this behind us, Li-san." It all sounded like some cheesy line from an old movie, but I didn't care. I disliked awkward relationships.
"So, friends?" I asked with a smile, extending my left hand as far as it would go.
He thought for a minute before slipping his warm, callused one into mine and clasping it firmly. "Friends," he repeated, voice solemn.
That said, he gave the slightest of smiles, eyes warming, and left with a mumbled "feel better." I sank back into the cushy pillows, content. Now all I had to do was wait for my arm to heal, and things would go back to normal.
~*~*~*~*~*~
The school told me to stay home for a couple of day, as a precaution. I thought I could actually use the break, but I found myself dead bored on the first day off from work. Books, magazines, or the TV didn't interest me. I had no papers to grade, I was contentedly full, I'd already taken a shower, and I found no interesting books in the house.
I groaned to myself as I flopped on the plush couch, eyes closing in frustration. I need a hobby, I thought. I glanced at the clock. It was just past three, unimaginably. Time was going so slowly all of a sudden! And, with the art club today, Tomoyo-san would be later than usual.
"Sakura-chan."
I turned in my seat to find 'Tou-san making his way to the living room.
"Touya and my flight back to Japan is tomorrow," 'Tou-san told me, taking a seat next to me. "With the accident, we plan on staying another week or two...."
"Oh, don't do that!" I exclaimed, interrupting him. "Both of you are bored stiff enough as it is. Go back home and to work, 'Tou-san. Even if you were to stay here just because of me, what would you do? Serve me at my every beck and call?" I scolded 'Tou-san with a pout. "And I'm only going to be home for a few days."
"You need someone to watch over you," he argued back softly.
"Don't worry," I replied. "Tomoyo-chan is here, and I can really do everything else myself." 'Tou-san was about to argue again, but I quickly intercepted. "Please, just go. You've been here long enough to see how I'm doing. I'll call often and tell you how I'm doing. I promise, okay?"
'Tou-san thought for a second before smiling warmly at me. He nodded with an "okay." I hugged him awkwardly from my position, avoiding putting any strain on my arm.
Just then, the doorbell rang. "I got it," 'Tou-san said, getting up from the couch and to the front door. "Oh, hello, David," I heard him say.
I was honestly not in the mood to talk to David, but company was company. He strode into the living room and sat on the matching flower- printed couch across from me.
"Hey," he started with a cocky grin.
"Hi," I replied with not much enthusiasm.
A second passed before he spoke again, "I got great news! I'm going to study abroad in Europe!"
"Wha...Europe? That's great!" I exclaimed a little too awkwardly. Not to sound selfish, but the man didn't even bother to ask me about my arm. And Europe?! This was such random news.
David scratched his head embarrassingly as if he won a contest of some sort. "Well, my father and I came to some little agreement with how long I was going to study for and the payment and everything."
I forced myself to smile, however weakly. What else was I supposed to do?
"Are...you okay, Sakura?" David asked me, peering closely at my face. "You seem a little upset."
"No! I'm fine! It's just...when are you leaving?"
"Maybe a month from now. The school has to find a replacement teacher for me. It's kind of a hassle, but I think this study trip is definitely worth it." He still had that stupid, goofy grin on his face.
"I guess that means we're breaking up," I said with not much remorse. "It...."
"No!" David interrupted gallantly. "I'll call you every day!"
I was at a loss for words.
"C'mon, Sakura! Cheer up! It's going to be a great experience for me!" David exclaimed. "This is the only thing I've ever asked for. Please be happy for me." His voice was wheedling, as if he was trying to sound cute enough to convince me.
I mentally snorted, but nodded. "Okay."
He gave an answering smirk and said, "See you, babe."
"'Bye," I grumbled before he left the room.
"Oh, yeah! How's that arm?" he called from the front door. Before I could open my mouth to shout an answer, he interrupted, "That's good to hear! 'Bye!" And the door slammed shut.
How aggravating that man could be sometimes, I thought to myself. Going to Europe! Now, isn't that a casual idea? My restlessness made my aggravation and sarcasm grow. I grumbled nonsense under my breath. I needed to go out. Even if it was just on the front lawn, I knew it would do me some good.
I hitched myself up off the couch and headed out to the front door.
"Where do you think you're going?" 'Nii-chan asked me, peering questioningly from the stairs.
"I'm going to look at the clouds," I replied haughtily and marched out the door.
Frustrating as the day was, I found my feelings cooled by the beautiful fall day. I lay comfortably on the grass and closed my eyes, feeling the wind brush across my exposed skin.
"You could catch a cold if you stayed outside too long," a voice called.
I opened my eyes with a start. I realized I'd fallen asleep when I saw the sun about to set. I rubbed my eyes and saw Tomoyo-chan coming up the front porch.
"What are you doing out here?" she asked with a laugh. She was coming from school.
"Enjoying the scenery," I croaked in my morning voice.
"With your eyes closed obviously," Tomoyo-san said smiling. "Come in, help me make dinner."
I nodded and got up precariously, following Tomoyo-san.
"Oh, and Li-san asked me if you would mind grading homework he collected in class," she said, setting down her bag at the entrance of the kitchen. She flipped through the contents quickly and whipped out a thick folder. She handed it to me. "A little something for you to do while you're healing. Just take it back with you when you're better."
I nodded and held the folder awkwardly in my left hand. How was I supposed to grade things one-handed? I didn't think that had occurred to Li-san.
"I'll take care of dinner; you get started on that homework," Tomoyo- chan said, shooing me off to my room. "It'll take you long enough," she said wryly. I stuck my tongue out at her before striding to my room and sitting at the old desk.
I opened up the folder to see a neat stack of messily written homework. The majority of them were probably done during their lunch period or before they went in the classroom. I smiled at one of the assignments. The kid accidentally turned in his math homework.
I quickly scanned the stack and came upon another little bunch of papers neatly bound with a rubber band. I just about cried at all the handmade get-well cards some of the students made me. Tony and Alex, the troublemakers, had made a card together. The cover had a stick figure that was looking with horror at its stump of a right arm, which was spurting blood. Somehow I didn't think Li-san had checked these before collecting them.
"Get better quick, Ms. Kinomoto," they'd written. "Mr. Li's been in an abnormally bad mood and is giving us too much homework. Come back and help us out!" I giggled. That was certainly true to character for Li-san.
At the bottom of the stack, there was another card, neater by far. On the cover, it had the Japanese calligraphy for "health." I smiled; this could only have come from one person. Holding the card open awkwardly with my fingers, I read, "I'm sorry. Please feel better soon." A corner of my mouth quirked up. Again, how like Li-san.
I lightly touched the calligraphy on the cover, before realizing that I only wanted to be Li-san's friend. Trying to shove back the emotions the card had brought out in me, I stacked the cards up haphazardly and shoved them to a corner of my desk. Taking a deep breath to clear my mind and strengthen my resolve, I clutched my grading pen – the one Tomoyo-chan had gotten me when she'd first heard about my wanting to be a teacher – and set to work tackling the daunting stack of homework.
TBC.
C-Mage: Oh, and I'd also like to give out a shout-out to my sister, my one and only, Satsuki-chan. Without her, I'd take a lot longer to write, and the plots of Hooded and Learn to Love Me wouldn't be the same. *grins* Hope you enjoyed it, for all its shortness! .
T.Anjel: sorry... so late and short. =(