A/N: Everyone! It's nice to be back! Thanks for those kind reviews I received, which urged me to reply to them a bit longer than before. I don't know why it took me a month to finish another chapter. I'm really, really sorry. I'm very busy due to final examinations and everything because our classes here were ending this month, just before the Holy Week. I've been waiting for a long 10 months for the summer vacation and now it has finally arrived. So sad, this is the second to the last chapter. But before tears and sobs, a huge thanks first to the following:
banmido01 – don't believe him. He's a friend in school who also got an account here! We're classmates and the one who gave me a bit of idea on this chapter. Thanks dude!
Amanda n.+ - Thanks for spending time reading my fic, I'm so touched when I've read your review. I hope you can read this because you really made me happy!
Paxton V. French – Thanks for the review!
Puffthemagicdragon567 – Wow, I love people who really spent time reading my story. Thanks!
Lil-Sakura-Angel – yeah, I'll end it on chapter 15. Do you want to know how to get over it? I hope you read the next story after this, no sequel, sorry. And this is the chapter of surprise.
ori-chan – I really owe you a million thanks for reviewing about the typing errors on the previous chapter. Halfway, I've checked the spelling but another halfway, I didn't manage to. I'm so excited to update that I've forgotten about checking the spelling.
Pinaygrrl – I hope you react on my story, but for now... thank you!
Illusion Dragon – yeah, I've put out the honey-darling thing but in this chapter, it's returning. Don't worry, they're not too young anymore. Lol. Really? 888 is a lucky number in China? My favorite number is 7, which is my birthday,
Sakura-miaka – yeah, Touya loves to make Syaoran's life miserable but I won't ever let him! I want to make Touya here a good brother to Sakura. Well, everybody likes his attitude. You call his task Torture? I like the way he managed to make up everything for Sakura. I just wanted to enter Nakuru around the last chapter. To make things clear: everything wasn't a flashback, it's 7 years after...
Ngoc1231 – Well, a night's sleep can make us grow old. Sometimes when I'm sad or angry, I just want to think that tomorrow is a brand new day. And sometimes I want to grow old fast, I'm wishing that the moment I wake up, I was 20. Lol. You think Syaoran's sweet to help her? We got the same idea. Touya's kind, you know.
kenshinlover2002 – Wow, I'm so touched when people loved the chapter I made. Time went really fast even in the real world. No, they aren't married, but who knows? Just keep reading for details.
I told you in the previous chapter that I have a big surprise for you, right? Well, it's here in the chapter, though in some of you, it's not a surprise anymore. Is it that obvious? Well... I like this chapter because this is one of my dreams... Lol...
Chapter 14:
A BIRTHDAY PRESENT
The 25-year old grown-up Sakura woke up at a start, looked at the alarm clock, which hasn't alarmed, then shrieked. She quickly threw the covers off then jumped down her bed. She ran towards her bathroom after grabbing her towel lying nearby.
She went out of it in just a matter of 5 minutes then wore her well-ironed white long-sleeved blouse, black blazer and skirt. As soon as possible, she ran as fast as she could down the stairs.
Fujitaka, who's wearing an apron, lay down the dishes on the table then their breakfast, "you're so much in a hurry, darling. Come and eat first, a good way to start your day..." He reminded.
Sakura blinked, "Yeah!" she shrieked, "I'm 25, Dad! Oh my gosh, I've almost forgotten about my birthday today! I really want to eat but, you know, I'm late..." She rolled her sleeve to check the watch.
"Happy birthday, my child." Fujitaka smiled then hugged her tightly.
"Thanks," Sakura kissed his cheek, "really got to go..."
"But it's only - " Fujitaka started but Sakura already exited the door and he could hear the engine of the car in noise, "7:00. Work starts at 8. What's the matter with her?" He went outside to wave goodbye. "Maybe she wanted to report early for her birthday." He shrugged.
Sakura can drive the car in a hurry for just ten minutes. She rather looked worried and nervous at the same time. Hearing her cell phone rang from her bag, she hurriedly picked it up not bothering to check who's calling.
"Ms. Sakura Kinomoto speaking." She sighed.
"Hey honey!" greeted a familiar voice on the other line.
"Oh, Syaoran, I'm really in a hurry that I didn't eat my breakfast today, so please... It's not the right time to chat." Sakura replied.
"I just want to invite you to have coffee with me in my office when you arrive here, ok?" Syaoran said.
"Ok, ok, bye darling..."
She turned left in a distant street. Just after she parked her car pinned her ID then entered the well-known Li Realty Holdings Corporation.
For everyone who knew her personally, she's a kind-hearted Vice-President, who serves as a role model to her inferiors. Everyone bowed their heads as she walked passed them with a smile.
She reached the 21st floor, where her office was. Pausing awhile to breathe, she knocked on a door then entered. She's been sharing her office with the President – Syaoran Li. The walls are colored white with matching wooden chairs, tables and filling cabinets. Everything was in order and the best thing was working with him.
"Happy Birthday, honey." Syaoran greeted, wearing a gray coat, green long-sleeves and a moss-colored necktie. "Hey, it's quite early, I thought you've been awakened by my call."
"Why?" Sakura proceeded into her table then sat into her chair, "It's already past 8."
Syaoran stared at her for a second then pointed their office clock on the wall showing 7:15.
"What?" Sakura stood, slammed her hands on the table then laughed, "I'm about to faint!" She sat back weakly with eyes partly closed.
"That's why I'm wondering and you said you didn't eat breakfast." Syaoran walked towards her then pulled her hand dragging her out their office. The door closed after them.
"Wait, darling!" Sakura called. Syaoran's walking too fast that Sakura behind him was almost running. His grip in her hand was too tight, the reason why Sakura couldn't free it. "Release my hand. Remember we're in office. We're not supposed to hold hands while we walk, exit the office during office hours and walking as fast as this." She said sarcastically.
Syaoran smirked ignoring her reminders. They've encountered about five personnel along their way, who bowed for them. Sakura smiled sweetly. They entered the elevator without a word, still their hands together. Sakura decided to break the silence as they stepped out of the building, now heading to the parking lot.
"Is this some kind of a surprise?" Sakura asked as Syaoran opened the car's door.
Syaoran waited for her to enter then he entered the car too, he started the engine, "No. I just thought that today's your special day but you haven't even eaten anything. So, why don't you come with me to eat breakfast?"
Sakura clapped her hands, "Oh, thank you! You're so thoughtful as ever! Do you know why I thought I'm late? I've forgotten this morning that I've set all the clocks and watches last night 45 minutes in advance, you know, I don't want to be late today." She smiled. "So, where are you planning to take me? It's only 7:25."
Syaoran laughed, "A few buildings away from office. Oh, here we are."
They entered a first-class restaurant and sat on a distant vacant chair. Syaoran called the waiter to take their order from the menu. Just after the waiter left, Syaoran opened a new topic.
"I won't make this conversation long, are you free tonight?" Syaoran asked frankly.
Sakura looked outside then sighed. How she wish she could spent her birthday with the love of her life! Work was getting complicated when she's with me but she just simply can't survive a day without Syaoran. Work's heavy but whenever she sees him trying to finish paper works, her tiredness goes away. But tonight, with her loaded schedules of meetings and everything?
It's impossible...
"So, are you free tonight?" Syaoran repeated.
Sakura turned her head back towards Syaoran then smiled, "Yes, I am." Who cares with those meetings? She could send a representative anytime. Besides, she won't enjoy herself there. Yeah, she knows she's mature but she just can't leave her childhood attitude. She's still the Sakura of 18 in spirit.
Syaoran's face lightened up, "Great! 7:00 tonight, I'll pick you up at your house."
By the end of the day, about five in the afternoon, Sakura drove to Tomoyo's boutique. She wanted to pay a visit to her best friend that day. She parked the car then entered the boutique excitedly.
"Wow, Sakura!" Tomoyo exclaimed, "So nice seeing you around with a schedule like yours. Come, have a seat."
Sakura sat beside her on a bench, "Yeah, I missed you a lot." She smiled.
"Do you think I've forgotten today's occasion?" Tomoyo smiled mischievously.
In that time, Eriol entered the door too, with a suitcase in his right hand. He looked really exhausted.
"Oh, hi there girls..." he said then sat beside Tomoyo.
"How's your day?" Tomoyo asked.
Eriol looked at her sadly then shouted, "I won the case!" Being a good lawyer was tough, studying the case night and day, 24 hours, 7 days a week. It's a huge success.
"Well, you should celebrate!" Sakura's eyes shone brightly.
"Wait." Eriol said, "Today's April first that means..."
Tomoyo and Eriol exchanged looks then shouted, "April Fool's!"
Sakura sank back to her seat and forced herself not to laugh. Of course, it's not only April Fool's, it's also her birthday. But her friends seem to be pulling out jokes to her.
"And happy birthday!" Tomoyo and Eriol shouted.
Sakura smiled, "Oh well, I thought you've forgotten..."
"How's Syaoran, by the way?" Eriol asked, "I haven't seen him since last week. He must be so busy like you. I can't imagine how he handles it."
"Oh, him?" Sakura suddenly remembered about their 7 o'clock agreement, "He's fine. He even invited me for, I think, a dinner tonight. Hey, when are you planning to get married?"
Tomoyo looked down her left ring finger, where her pearl engagement ring was, "Hopefully, by December." She smiled at Eriol.
Eriol smiled at her too, "Yes, by December. How about you Sakura? Did Syaoran propose to you already?"
Sakura laughed shortly, "Not yet. But it's ok, we're no in a hurry. Hold on, speaking of Syaoran, what time is it? My watch's 45 minutes advance but I want to know the exact time."
Eriol glanced at the wall clock on his right, "It's 6:05."
Sakura's eyes widened, "I've chatted so long. Sorry, I've wasted your time. I'll be meeting him at 7. I got to go."
Tomoyo pulled Sakura's wrist then stood, "As my birthday gift for you, I'll dress you up beautifully. From head to toe, everything will come from my boutique, ok?"
Sakura thought it was a great idea then nodded quickly.
Tomoyo squeaked then pushed her towards the fitting room. She hurriedly picked dresses from the display to give to Sakura for her to try one by one. Tomoyo picked an elegant pair of white sandals, a pouch bag, a hair clip and make-up."
Eriol sighed while muttering, "Girls..." then shook his head.
Sakura stepped out the fitting room with yellow floral dress having belt in her waist. Eriol shook his head. Sakura returned then stepped out again with strapless violet velvet dress. Tomoyo clapped her hands but Eriol disagreed again. For the third time, Sakura went out with plain pale pink dress reaching beyond her knees and a denim cardigan.
Eriol muttered, "Perfect."
Sakura sighed, "What now?"
Tomoyo pulled her on a chair then started fixing her hair and putting a little make-up.
"What time is it?" Sakura asked, "Syaoran'll pick me up at 7 at home, remember?"
"I've called him while you're dressing up and he'll go direct here." Eriol laughed, "He told me something but I can't tell you right now..."
"Oh... why do boys like you got weird ideas?" Tomoyo commented after she placed a little make-up and a hair clip on Sakura. "Look at this dress, it's too simple."
Then suddenly someone entered the boutique in resemblance of Syaoran in blue semi-formal attire. He shook hands with Eriol then stared at Sakura.
"Do I look funny?" she stood then kissed his cheek. "Let's go."
Syaoran turned to Eriol, "You didn't tell her my secret, did you?"
Eriol laughed, "Of course not, trust me."
"Good." Syaoran turned to Tomoyo, "You're getting lovelier everyday Tomoyo. Is it because of the upcoming wedding?"
Tomoyo laughed, "What do you think? No, I'm only kidding. Anyway, go ahead for your surprise for Sakura. It's 7 already."
Sakura coughed.
Syaoran nodded, "Goodbye then."
They left the boutique then entered the car. Sakura waved goodbye to Tomoyo and Eriol standing at the doorway. The car drove away.
"What's the surprise he's saying?" Tomoyo asked curiously.
"Oh that?" Eriol smiled, "I'll tell you inside..."
Inside the car, Sakura and Syaoran were very quiet. Things were playing inside their minds, making the thirty-minute ride so long. Syaoran kept sighing along their way and rubbing his palms together whenever they encounter traffic. Sakura couldn't help glancing at him in every second, with his unusual moves. She knew in an instant that he's nervous, but what for?
"Um, honey..." Syaoran glanced at her, "Would you mind if we drop by our office first? I think I forgot something very important."
Sakura's lip curled then forced a smile, "Is it that important? Can't you just wait until tomorrow?"
Syaoran smirked, "It is very important and it can't wait."
Sakura leaned back her chair. What in the world is that 'something'? Is it more important than their night? Can't he forget his office works even only tonight?
Moments later, they arrived in the Li Realty Holdings Corporation. Syaoran and Sakura got off the car then headed the 21st floor where their office was. Sakura, at instant, noticed the peculiar hush around. Their employees usually work over time. But what happened, it's only pas 7? They reached the 21st floor by elevator.
"What have you forgotten?" Sakura asked him as they passed their office, "There's our office and we're supposed to get in there, shouldn't we?" she followed Syaoran walking ahead.
"It's in the rooftop." Syaoran looked back.
He opened a door leading to the rooftop then held Sakura's hand. Sakura smelled the fragrant smell of roses. She looked down the stairs to make sure she won't tripped due to darkness. Hand in hand, they climbed. Finally, they reached the rooftop.
Sakura's mouth dropped open. Was this their rooftop? This seems to be a place somewhere in the province. The wind was cool while read and white rose petal were scattered on the floor making the sweet fragrance around. There were red and white fabric ribbons tied around the rails. A bit later, lights coming from the four corner of the rooftop was turned on. And in the middle were two chairs of metal and a round table with a bunch of red roses in the center. Sakura turned to Syaoran, beside her, teary-eyed.
Syaoran put out a handkerchief then wiped the corners of Sakura's eyes, "Again honey, a happy birthday to you." He kissed her hand.
Sakura nodded, "Thank you, thank you... This is great..."
Syaoran smiled, "There's something greater than that."
Instantly, three men wearing suit played their violins while walking towards the table but stopped at about 2 meters away. Syaoan led Sakura to the round table then pulled a chair for her. Sakura smiled sweetly then blushed as Syaoran handed her the bouquet of roses. Then came the waiters with light dinner meal for them. As soon as they finished eating, the violinists and waiters left them alone. Syaoran decided to open up a topic.
"So... do you like it?" Syaoran smiled
"I love it." She replied looking around the place. It's romantic. You really made me feel special, darling."
"But there's a whole lot more waiting for," Syaoran smiled, "Let's wait at exactly 8." He stared at his watch. Two minutes, one minute, 30 seconds, 20 seconds, 10 seconds, five, four, three, two then –
WHOOSH.
"Oh my gosh!" Sakura raised from her seat with a hand over her mouth, "This is wonderful. Look!"
Syaoran stood too looking to the direction she's pointing. Heart fireworks were shown in the midair nearby. It came from Tomoeda Park. Sakura was too shocked to speak. The fireworks continued.
"And there's one more thing," Syaoran pulled her towards the rails then put out something from his pocket – a case wherein a ring was inside, but her didn't open it or show it. "Sakura, from this day forward, I promise to love you more. Do you still remember the friendship bracelet-thing?" He opened the case bearing the ring with a small diamond in the center, simple yet elegant.
Sakura's lip trembled, "T-to b-be friends forever? Oh yes, I remember, w-why?"
"We'll be together forever, honey." Syaoran held Sakura's hand then ready to insert the ring to her ring finger, "Why don't you fancy look down the lawn?"
Sakura frowned and wondered. She leaned forward the rails then one by one, little candles lit up forming the sentence she dreamt to here...
Will you marry me?
She knew at once the reason for everything that has happened that day – the employees, no overtime, silence around the building and Syaoran's unusual moves. About 2 to 3 people formed lines in the sum of around 200 to complete the sentence.
Fat tears of joy crawled down her cheeks as she stared back at Syaoran.
"Sakura, will you marry me?" He asked slowly and clearly.
Sakura wiped her face excitedly, "Y-yes, I will."
She watched Syaoran inserting the ring slowly in her finger. Then Syaoran looked straight into her dancing eyes. He leaned slowly to give her a light kiss on the lips, which lasted less than a minute. After that, Sakura hugged him so tight that only Syaoran could do was to smile. Later, she released him.
Syaoran put his hand into her waist then looked down the lawn where his employees were standing holding a candle each then looked towards the Tomoeda Park where fireworks were still on going.
He put a thumb in the air, "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!"
Then a loud roaring sound erupted due to their employees' screams, shouts and conversations at the lawn. It was more like a free concert for everyone. Sakura felt weird. This was it. Her night, when Syaoran had finally proposed marriage to her. She stared at her diamond ring. Syaoran looked at her seriously thinking of what life awaits after their wedding. Sakura noticed this so she lifted her eyes to look back at him.
"Can you believe your luck?" Syaoran embraced her.
Sakura felt his warmness then smiled, "It thought scenes like this only happens in movies or even dreams. I'm thrilled up to now. This isn't a part of April Fool's, is it?"
Syaoran caressed her hair then laughed, "Why? Do you think this is a big joke? I won't do such thing to you that will break your heart, honey."
"I'll tell Tomoyo right away when I got home." Sakura said excitedly, "I bet she'll be so happy about this."
"And sad too," Syaoran laughed, "for not being able to video this all..."
They laughed then started talking about the fireworks. Later, the fell quiet. Sakura sighed then smiled thinking of the wedding and she's now really looking forward to it.
A/N: Whew... Finally! One more chapter to go! I want to thank my classmates: banmido01 and Crystal-ice19 for inspiring me to write this chapter. They really want me to finish this. I hope you like it too because I like this so far. Please go on reviewing... please... try clicking the 'Submit Review' at the lower left of the screen. Thanks!
