-------------------AUTHOR'S NOTE------------------


Guys!!! I'm really sorry for the looooooooooooooong update! Ü Hehehe, I really hope you forgive me for this one. You see, I really want this to pass on Syaoran's B-day but the technician broke his promise that he'll just fix my computer for 1 whole day, which turned into I month!!!! Would you believe that?!!? sob sob

So, as a gift to you people, I'm giving you Chapter 12!!! clap clap clap hope you like this one, demo, I'm sure it's not what you expected. bow don't worry, I'll be posting the next chap by next week. (Depends on my school) for my sched is really hectic! I have classes from Monday to Saturday, 7 am to 6 pm then soccer practice on Sunday, 7 am to 12 noon or 1 pm to 5 pm (too much to do for an 18-year-old, ne?) so you see… it's really hard for me to squeeze my writings, especially when all your professors demand a quiz every day! (Talk about brutality! nod nod )

Demo, don't worry, I promise you that I'll finish this story! I won't keep you waiting for so long! nod nod so, I hope you keep on reviewing, ok? The more reviews, the more inspirations to type my story! Hehehe! Keep on reviewing, ok?

And about the teddy bears and the teddy bear kingdom… they're all real! Those bears were my favorite ones! I'm an arctophile, you see! (bear collector) but not that big-time! Hehehe!

Oh! I'm also sorry if I can't answer your questions right now, for I'm really in a hurry! I'm still having a hangover on my duty earlier at pediatric ward, so I really feel kinda dizzy…. I'm sorry for the inconvenience… so, without further ado… here's my story!!!!



































Disclaimer: Mou… I DON'T OWN CCS! I just own the plot and some characters in this story, ok? :(



































= 'Finding Myself In Your Eyes' =-
by: K a m I n a r I - c h a n


Chapter 12: Dense



































Tok!—Hi! I'm sorry for I can't answer your call right now. So, please leave your message after the beep. Ciao!—Tok!—BEEEEEEEEEP!

"Mei, it's me, Touya. Hey look…is your phone working…? I think I've called you a hundred times this week, but I still don't get any signs that you've received my calls… Mei…I'm sorry about what happened a week ago, it was really dumb of me... I know that I don't have the right to reprimand you of anything, but you see… I—I'm just concern… you know… you've became like a s-sister to me… humm… so that's it. If you have time, please return-call. Thanks!"—Tok!—TOOT! TOOT! TOOT! TOO—Tok!





And then…there was silence.





Crimson eyes start to water while gazing at the black phone in her lap. She wasn't ready to face him after the incident, because she knows that everything the man has said was true… thus, she doesn't have any reason to talk to him. It's for the best… she thought while remembering the incident that made her relationship with the Japanese man somewhat blurred.





---------------Flashback---------------


"Touya-kun, why don't you tour me to your place?" the Chinese lady asked as she sat comfortably to the sofa that's adjacent to her friend's table. It was a month after her cousin's birthday and she decided to visit her Japanese friend in his office since she has nothing to do neither in Hong Kong nor in her apartment.


"I bet there are many attractions in your town that I definitely need to see." She added while playing her long hair between her hands. She decided to let it down today because it's a bit chilly in Japan. She even wears her warmest windbreaker for she's not some 'wise men', which can tolerate extreme cold that Japanese believed, since she's a Chinese. Heck! Those people are old men of a hundred years old! "Hey? Why so serious?" looking at the silent guy that's staring sadly at her.


"I think you should go back to Hong Kong." the older guy said, placing his trembling hands in his desk. Noticing the surprised look from the terracotta orbs made him continue his talk, "You're not doing anything good in your life… why don't you just go back to Hong Kong and study? You're graduating, right?"


"What for? You see… I'm already behindhand to study for this year…and I've decided that I should just enter next semester."


"Then, what are you going to do with your spare time?" the man inquired, annoyance is now in his voice.


"I'll hang-out with you! You did say that you like my company, ne? Then it's okay!"


"You can't…"


"Doushite?"


He sighed, as confusion took-over his mind, "It's just,you c-can't!" he shouted, causing the lady to jump in her seat.


It was her first time to see her friend like this, what's happening to him? "Is everything okay?" she questioned calmly, not wanting to jump into conclusions. "If I did something wrong—"


"Meiling!"


"—then you can—"


"Meiling!"


"—tell me, and I'll—"


"Meiling, stop it, ok?!" he said a bit harshly as he looks seriously in her eyes. Somehow, he had gotten his self in front of her while their heated conversation is going on. "Meiling, you're only a chil—"


"—No, I'm not." Standing abruptly, stubbornly defending her point. It wasn't easy for her to look at him for he's good-five inches taller than her. "I'm not a child."


"Then stop acting like one!"


"W-What do you mean?"


Running his fingers callously in his jet-black hair, "Meiling, don't press your luck…! You need to go on with your life and not destroy it all because of one g-guy!"


"Because of what?!"


"I know that you're only like this because you're depressed. And I understand it clearly… demo I think you should stop wasting your life… you should make yourself a bit useful by studying and not just always hanging out with me and making yourself miserable…"


Anger could now be seen in her orbs, how could he say that?! I thought he understands me? Closing her eyes as she fought back the tears that are threatening to fall."Fine. You don't have to beat around the bush… You should've just told me straight… t-that you don't w-want m-me in here." as she run away from him… run away…


---------------End of Flashback---------------





From the guy I love… Half-whispering the truth she has found out unexpectedly in her heart. It was really unforeseen. She really wasn't planning to love someone since her first time didn't worked out. She thought at first that she only wants the company of the Japanese lad. But as time passed by, she became more attached that she didn't know she fall.





Madly fall in love with him.





But the black pools didn't see that. He couldn't see the passion and love that she's always offering from her deep crimson ones. Maybe, he just allowed me to be with him because I have Kaho's eye color…





"You know, you remind me of her… very much…. especially your eyes…"





"Have I told you that her eyes are ruby-colored?"





" …And I would exchange the world just to see those orbs again."





That voice… that same calming voice once again passed in her ears. It was funny how it tickles her senses the first time she heard it. She thought back then that it was so sweet of him to remember everything about his love. That she could almost melt in her place if she was the one he's describing. But now…





She detests it.





It was like a newly sharpened knife, stabbing her heart again and again. Bringing her back to the reality. To the veracity that she's just a living memory of the deceased angel…





And nothing more…





Tears immediately fall through her porcelain-like cheeks as she looks again at the phone. This is her lifesaver for now… even though she's not with him, her day is still complete every time she pressed the button—the only key that would let her hear his voice freely, without minding the tears in her eyes.





"Come on, Meiling. Answer the phone, please? I know you still haven't fly back to Hong Kong for I saw you yesterday at the park… please call back, ok…? Let's talk!!"—Tok!—TOOT! TOOT! TOOT! TOO—Tok!





"I think you should call him… he sound so desperate." A male voice interrupted her thoughts, making her turn her head to the speaker. "This cold war's taking too long… "


"Don't you know that I can sue you for trespassing?" She retorted coldly, glaring daggers at the azure orbs that's looking at her weirdly. "What are you doing here, Eriol?"


"Why? Do people need a reason when they want to see their beloved cousin?" smiling roguishly as he confidently stride near his wrecked relative. "Man, you look like you haven't eaten for days!" observing her thin form behind the loose shirt and jogging pants that she's wearing. "Have you eaten your lunch? It's almost three."


"I know you, Eriol. You're not the type of guy wherein he'll go to his cousin's apartment and just say hello or even ask if he or she had eaten already." Raising her brow, not minding to wipe her tears. "I think you need something."


"Gee, when will people stop comparing me from my past? I'm a changed man now, Mei-Mei."


"And it's all because of Tomoyo." She pointed out, standing up and then placing the phone back to the table where it rests, as she motioned the blue-haired guy to sit adjacent to her. "By the way, where is she? I still haven't seen her."


"Well, she's with Uncle." Smiling as he remembers the angelic beauty. Then, "Why are you changing the topic?"


"Well, tell me first why you're here?" crossing her arms as she stands in front of the sitting man.


He grinned, stand up and level his self to Meiling, "Well… I think you need some company… so, care for a walk?" he cajoled, offering his right arm to the lady.









XOXOXOXOX









"Un… Un… yeah, okay… Besides I think I need some fresh air... Un, I'll go back as soon as I can. Arigatou, Yukito." Touya said before maneuvering the steering wheel to the right with his left hand, while pressing the end call button of his cell phone with his right.


Again, ruby pools clouded his vision… Meiling… he mumbled, feeling another weird squeeze in his heart while wondering what happened to the Chinese lady after their talk.


He felt really obtuse at his recklessness. He knows that he gravely hurt the young lady and he has no 'good' explanation for that one since the only raison d'être in their cold war was the topic he didn't dared to open for two years…





Love…





Funny, how he taught it to Meiling without problem for two months. But he must admit that in the last month, many weird things transpired. His simple job as the Chinese lady's tour guide and companion slowly vanishes in his thoughts, making him confused. Even him, whom the lady looks up, as Dr. Love doesn't know the answer to his question…





'Can people truly fall-in love in such a short time?'





People say that love knows no time and boundaries… that it can hit you in the most unpredicted place, unforeseen time and with the last person you expect to fall in-love with Yet, there's also a cliché that we should never jump into conclusions.


So he may be wrong about what he feels inside. He can say that he's just overwhelmed with the situation, since Meiling have the same eye-color like Kaho. That maybe, he just has a weakness for depressed ladies. Or he's only feeling this way—besotted, smitten or any other term for in-love—because he sees Sakura in her; that his affection for the Chinese lady was just a brotherly love.


"But why do I feel this way?" he confusedly asked, driving smoothly as he look from right to left, hoping that he'll see the person he's yearning to converse to.





And he's not disappointed.





What the—muttering under his breath, making a daring U-turn, then parking his car hastily as the wheels of his Lexus screeched into full stop. Flaring red tinted his tan skin, which almost made a good match at his maroon long sleeved polo, while feeling enraged and happy at the same time. But he knows that the latter is more dominant in his heart right now.


"Hey, Kino—BOOGHey!? What's that for?!?" the guy that's hugging the lady earlier annoyingly asked while rubbing his now sore jaw.


"Why did you do that?" Meiling queried, standing between the two guys. "And why are you here in the first place, Kinomoto-san?"


"Stay away from him, Mei." Boldly grabbing the young lady's arms, jerking her away from the man he keeps on calling a cheater and not minding the way she addressed him.


"And why would I do that?"


"Because, you're creating an issue!"


"Then look around you, dimwit!" she retorted, yanking her hands from the tight grasps, as she stepped back. "You're the one making a scandal!" she added while looking at the crowd that's surrounding them, which was really a strange sight since the place is known for its romantic ambiance.


Glaring back at the mob, he then snatched again Meiling's wrist, "You're coming with me."


"No, I'm not!"


"Mei, I think you should go with him." The other man said, giving her a you-will-regret-it-if-you-won't look. "I must go." Walking away while giving his last wave to the couple.


"Iie, Eriol-kun! Chotto matte kudasai! Let me go, dammit!" (No, Eriol! Please wait a minute!)


"I'm not letting you." he taunted, yet he knew in his heart that what he was talking about wasn't just the literal meaning of it. So with one swift move… the yelling lady is now in his shoulder, carrying her like the first time he saw him in Beijing. "What are you looking at?" he spat whilst glaring daggers at their audiences, making the people scuttles away from them.


"Put me down!" squirming from Touya's shoulder. Noticing that her Japanese friend will not listen, she began to stop wiggling and just observe where the young man is heading. We're going to the lake! She thought looking at the path Touya is walking while picturing their private picnic place in her mind, which the young man showed him the first time she went here in Japan. What is he tying to do?





Then… it hit her.





"N-No! Iie! Y-You wouldn't d—SPLASH—dare!" she screeched, but she's too late. And now, her body is freezing because of the cold water. "What the hell are you doing?!?" getting angrier every second as she makes an effort to stand up. Unfortunately, her clothes didn't support her in her actions as she makes another big splash in the lake.


"So… are you cooled now?" he ironically asked after the young lady had successfully withdrawn herself from the water. Hearing a grunt, he then started. "Look, Mei… you don't know that guy…" Recalling the scene wherein he saw the blue haired guy leaned on his Chinese friend. He was really shocked back then but what bothered him most is when he felt a sudden urge to protect and remove the young Englishman's arm from Meiling. And the funny thing was, he didn't even regret hitting him earlier. He deserves it, anyway… "You don't know what you're in to."


"Of course, I know!"


"You don't understand!"


"You're the one who's not getting it!"


"Meiling! He has a fiancée!" that does it! Hope she's now getting my point. Praying whilst looking at the defiant and wet lady in front of him. "He's getting married."


"So what?!" Confusion fogged up in her head. "I don't care one bit if Eriol's going to marry or not! Heck! He can even marry the Emperor, for all I care! " She further stated, balling her fists as the wind blew roughly, sending her goosebumps and making her damp shirt and jogging pants stick to her curves more firmly.


"Are you really that desperate for someone to love you?" stepping forward to the freezing lady. Somehow, he needed to know everything… her thoughts… her feelings… everything.





It was now or never…





"What?!?" she asked, while taking a step backwards.


"Tell me Meiling…" moving one more foot. "Are you really that desperate?"


"What are you saying?" as she start to take another step rearwards but unluckily, the sturdy cherry tree stopped her to budge an extra inch. "W-What are you doing?" she stammer, as he leaned in front her with his strong arms at either side of her head, blocking her from escaping.


And right before she speaks another word, soft lips captured her trembling ones for a rough kiss. She wasn't expecting this… His lips nearly crushed hers, as it forced her mouth to open for access. But as soon as she took hold of his shoulders, she hurriedly pushed back her vanquisher.


"What do you think you're doing?" she gasped, collecting her self in the process. She could still feel the pounding of her heart in her chest. As if it would break her ribcage if it will go any further. "W-What in the world are you doing?"


"Why? Is that the way you treat people who volunteered to satiate your desperations?" he spat angrily, gritting his teeth as the intoxicating scent of raspberry attacked his senses. "You're not like this when I saw four-eyes kissed you on your cheek… and if I remember it right, you return the affection he'd given y—SLAP!


"Y-You bastard! Did you really see me as the cheapest person in the world? So…what do you think of me now…? My God, Touya! How can you stoop so low! And here I thought that you were smart." yelling frenziedly while rubbing her arms to calm her nerves. She was really shocked. She doesn't know what she's feeling right now. All that's roaming in her mind at the moment is that Touya took away her first kiss. And hell to that, because she knows that it was very childish of her in having those thoughts in this very important moment. "God! I regret that I trusted you!"





Silence.





"I-I'm s-sorry! I-I d-don't know w-why…? Maybe…I'm just afraid…"


"Of what?" she spat, also bowing her head like the man did. She doesn't want to see those deep black pools, for it held too many emotions right now. Her attitude as a stubborn mule didn't even work. Moreover, her self-confidence relinquished and become a puddle of mud. She's like a statue, which is very startling for those who knew her. "Of what? Tell me…"


"T-That you might got hurt… because…"


"Because…?" she queried further which is now in a calmer tone, although she knows what the guy will tell her. That I'm just like a sister to him…


"Eriol will hurt you…" heaving a sigh while looking at the trembling body in front of him. "…Meiling, you can't be with him. He has a fiancée. So things will not work out for both of you."


What?!
As her eyes widen but still not forgetting their war. Now that solves it! "God, Touya! You're so reckless! Eriol and I were just cousins!"


"You're what?!?"


"We're cousins, baka!" As the angel of silence passed through them…





Once more.





How ironic that the guy who keeps on yelling at me earlier becomes this quiet...
it's as if I have a ghost with me in this dense forest. "I'll go now." as she walks away from the baffled guy.





And now… she understood.





Her intuition didn't fail her. That this Japanese guy just thought of her like his sister. That's why he's being protective of her, right? And the kiss… that rough, expressive kiss was nothing to him… it's just like a slap wherein she was being reprimand by her own brother.





Heartbreaking





Indeed…





And so, she walks away… for she couldn't bear to see those black pools again after this. Maybe the guy was right, afterall… maybe he has a point that she just feels this way for him because she's desperate. Yeah… maybe… She presumed, though she knew in her heart that she's lying. That everything he has said earlier really was a big deal to her. And that the soft soil she's walking on is like her heart that's slowly being mashed by the thought of not seeing him again. Goodbye, Touya…


"Matte!"


She then stopped her tracks, not moving an inch to face her secret love. I can't…


"I-I'm s-sorry… I'm sorry for thinking too low about you…. I'm sorry if I let you feel that you're cheap… I shouldn't have done that."


"It was nothing." Sending a fraud cheery voice while swallowing the large lump that has formed in her throat.





What do you do when the only person who can make you stop crying is the same person who made you cry?





Simple… don't even start…
coming to a conclusion that she shouldn't cry.





Because crying won't make any difference…





Crying won't make him understand…





Crying won't make him believe… that she loves him.





She don't want to shed tears for it will only make her vulnerable, thus, it'll be harder for her to forget him if she did it… She should forget him, right? For, there's really no 'them´ in the beginning. And she knew that if she started to let her tears fall, she might not be able to stop it and even walk away from him. God! Why is love so painful!


She then smiled, even though Touya couldn't see it, "Well… it's fairly predictable… I really do look so desperate, ne?" Taking another step, but as she did it, her feet feels like lead. She couldn't move another step. It's as if my heart is yelling my mind to stop… For if she continue… she'll be sliding in a puddle of her crushed heart.


"I'm sorry for everything…" Touya whispered, taking a breather, "You see … I'm not expecting anything in my life after K-Kaho left… but you proved me wrong. So I got confused… that's why I distanced myself to you… to sort things out." Striding his self to the soaked lady and then faced her bowed head.


He then cupped her face and brought her defiant gaze to his decisive eyes. "When I looked at you like this… I get mixed up… I don't know what I'm feeling… For I honestly see K-Kaho in you… I know that my mind is telling me that she's different. But my heart is really confused…" thumbing her damped face in his callous hands.


"Meiling, I don't want to be unfair to you. That's why I ordered you to go… I want to be sure that what I feel for you is true... That I'm not just feeling this way because I'm remembering her in your eyes…"


"Touya, I—"


"—Shh… Let me…" stopping the girl form telling. He needed to say this right now before chance left him again. And he's not that dumb to let it pass once more. "But now everything's clear… I'm just really stubborn to accept my defeat… Heck! It even took us into this cold war to make me realized what I really do feel for you…that I love you…" heaving a sigh, yet still not removing his gaze to the shocked orbs. Then, he smiled. "I know it's too sudden… even I can't explain it… demo… it's all I can say… I'm in-love with you, Mei."


Oh my G-God! She gasped as overwhelming feeling surges into her heart after hearing those words. It's as if she can now breathe freely again and her heart starts to mold all over again. Oh how she wished for this time to come! For this instance wherein someone she loves will love her back.





Thus, her vow was broken.





Tears gushed suddenly in her cheeks, as feelings of joy, love and contentment enveloped her mending heart. "Daisuki desu!" (I love you too!) Passionately embracing the man of her dreams as she look up and shared their second kiss. Arigatou, Kami-sama…


And just like what she has said, she couldn't walk away from him… not now… not ever.









XOXOXOXOX









God! When will they stop? They're really disgusting!
Sakura annoyingly thought, as she kicked another ball that went straight to the goal. Additional batch of sweats fall from her forehead, making her fake eyebrows to furrow a bit.


"Don't worry, rumors lasts for 75 days. So you only have two months left before they mob another issue." Zheng said, passing another ball for her to dribble.


"Hmp! I'm not asking for opinions."


"You've become quite feisty, ne?"


"Who wouldn't?!" she squabble, taking another shot at the damaged net.


It's been two weeks in a row now, wherein students of Xianggang Daxue keep on flooding the University's football field, for one main reason…





To see her.





And as for her part, it's really infuriating for she looks like a bacterium in a sterile field. Just like the first time the news leaked out…





---------------Flashback---------------


"Hey, what do you think is their problem?" Sakura whispered to her companion as they walk towards their building. "Do we look like criminals?" looking back at the staring eyes that were following their movements.


"I don't know." Syaoran said flatly.


She became alarmed at the seriousness that the young wolf. By now, he should have wise comebacks like, 'Maybe they saw what a monster you are!' or 'They thought I have a monster with me.'





Yet she heard nothing.





Because all she can see right now was the cold and intimidating face of the Li-heir. It wasn't her first time to see him like this. Yet, it still makes her heart tremble with fear. "Hey, what's the matter?" she questioned, pushing the bridge of her eyeglasses upward.


"I think, I know why." He muttered, seizing her small hand as they ran past the people and towards the building.


What's with him? She asked no one as she run—no—drag by him. Her hand is hurting at the pressure and her eyes became misty for the fast pace they're doing, making her vision a total blur.


"See?" they stopped as he spat and look angrily at the corkboard. "I think this is the end of your pretensions."





And there, she saw her doom.





She feels like she was sucked by a warped zone and was placed into the past. But this time, it was different. For it's not Matsumoto that's with her in the pictures…





It was Syaoran.





She then hurriedly snatched the pictures out of the board, scrutinizing every piece and trashing it in her bag. Thankfully, this isn't like her pictures in Japan. These were mostly composed of their tour in Hong Kong. Images wherein they were buying jades, enjoying the dolphins in the Ocean Park and looking inside the teddy bear kingdom.


Yet, she still couldn't believe her eyes, only one person can do this to her…Matsumoto. She breathed out, tightening her jaw in the process. How dare he do this to her! He said that he'd not tell anyone… Heck! Why did I believe that in the first place? As she feel a squeeze on her right hand.


"I'm here." Syaoran murmured, gazing back with unexplained look in his amber eyes. "I'm not going anywhere." He added, putting another pressure on her trembling hand.


"Mr. Li, Mr. Nakamura. I'm now glad that you're here. We really need to talk." A hoarse voice said, both looking up at the old man. "Especially you, Nakamura. Or should I say Miss Nakamura…?"


---------------End of Flashback---------------





She couldn't almost recall what happened inside the Dean's office. All she remembered was, the old man immediately offered their silence about her situation. Heck! They even did some contract signing that the news will not leak out of the University… All thanks to Syaoran!





But that didn't end there…





Right after they stepped out of the office, she almost got suffocated at the mob that's waiting for them, though she expected it. But what really surprised her and made her housemate scowl were the tons of date proposals that bombarded them at the lobby. She really didn't think that it'd be like that, because what she had imagined when she was still at the room was different. She assumed that people would look at her like she's some sort of disease and even take advantage of her condition.





But they proved her wrong.





Hence, without a doubt Syaoran started to glare daggers at them, which made the people quickly scram. And because of that, she'll not be true to herself if she wouldn't admit that she was touched. Hah! And he even keeps on saying that I was the one who's unpredictable. Swaying her head while remembering every surprise the chestnut-haired guy did to her.


"That's it for today, guys!" the captain yelled as they all walk towards the bleachers.


Then, a cherry blonde hair guy with gray eyes timidly walks towards the only female player with a long stem rose on his hand.


Not again! She shouted in her mind, observing the approaching guy in the process. But fortunately, the nervous guy skedaddles when he saw the glare of her housemate. "Stop it, Syaoran. I can handle myself and you know that." She reminded the fuming Li-heir while giving him his bottled water.


"I know, demo… I can't help it! They look like they're hungry for something." Causing Sakura to shiver a bit, "S-Sorry about that."


"Hey, Nakamura! What number are we now?" Shen, a guy with black eyes and curly black hair asked while all her other teammates looked at her keenly.


"Well… I think it stopped in the 328th, including the guy that Li had scared." Zheng replied for her whilst looking back at their audiences. "Man! How I wished they're this supportive when we have tournaments."


"They'll never change, ne?" the only lady in the team stated irately as she take another sip from her bottle.


"Well I must say, you're really in-demand."


"Un, Jin's right. You're too lucky that Li did warn the admin or you'll be on the front page of Hong Kong Times!"


"Hey! Stop teasing Nakamura! You only bring her more headaches!"


"Thanks, Mao-san." Smiling gratefully to the team's mediator. She was really happy that her teammates didn't react like those jerks in their university. She couldn't stand it if they treated her as if she was inferior to them nor as if she was a thing to be owned. "Demo, I think that they got the signal that I'm not interested in them, because the number of guys that's asking me out had dropped… which is really great!"


"You have no idea." Syaoran breathed out, as the whole football team—except Sakura—grinned evilly.





---------------Flashback---------------


"So, do you understand?!" Mao yelled while glaring coldly to the people at the field. It was really unusual for the team's goalkeeper to be like this, for he was known as the calmest of them all… well, next to Syaoran.


The football team headed by their captain, Syaoran, organized a meeting wherein Sakura was not included. And luckily, they didn't need to tell Sakura about that since the young lady is in Eastpack.


"So mind your manners and don't let your raging hormones roam around the campus, ok?" Zheng added, being serious—for once—as he adjusts the neckline of his jersey. "And if anyone of you who'll violate our dear co-captain or even asked for a date will have the same consequence like these people had received." Pointing the groaning students that are limping on the grass.


"You may go now. And we hope you understood what we mean." The young captain ended while nodding callously.


---------------End of Flashback---------------





"But the invitation is till up…" Zheng smiled flirtatiously, causing the other guys to glare back at him. "Do teammates count?" glancing innocently as he continues, "So… are you coming?"









XOXOXOXOX









"I don't think so…" Fujitaka replied to his caller while nodding upon seeing his only niece that has entered his room. "I'm still busy… un… I'll just call you later, ok? Ja." Bringing down the phone while motioning Tomoyo to take a sit.


"Uncle, daijoubu?"


He shakes his head. "The company's going down. And I can't even do something about that…"


"Was it the Head that called you earlier?"


"Un. Of course, demo…" rubbing his temples while leaning to his easy chair. "I know it'll help me in our financial problems demo, I don't know if I can go because I'm still worried about Sakura. You know that I can't focus clearly if I don't know what's happening to my daughter, ne?" receiving a nod from the prim lady, "Are you also going in there?"


She nodded. "Hai. I'm going to be okaasan's representative since she's still in England." She said in a longing voice. Then, she stood up and walks towards him. "Don't worry, uncle. I know that Sakura's in good hands. Kami-sama won't let her fall into danger."


"Un, I hope so, too…" he prayed with a longing look on his face. Nadeshiko, please guide our daughter…









XOXOXOXOX









Tranquility of the night shadowed the whole city as the busy people quickly walk their way to their houses. It was indeed a very serene view… stars divulging slowly from the black curtain of the night, while the calm zephyr dance with the falling leaves from cypress trees.





Totally different from one of the rooms of Empire Condominium, which is also the elite part of the building.





"You're definitely wrong…again." tenor voice booms in the first class unit of Hong Kong's well-known condominium, as the guy rubbed out once more the equations in the yellow pad. He then looked back at the auburn-haired lady that's lying beside him on the floor with her tummy also facing the marbled ground just like his position. "Why can't you get it…? It's really simple."


"Bragger." Sakura stated, bringing down her pencil and turning her head to her teaser while waving her feet in the air. "Sorry, but I really can't understand it, dum-dum! I can't even recognize its importance in our daily life! Heck! You can't even say: 'Hey! Did you know that a x b=0? And now, I demand a discount!' to the cashier, ne?"


Syaoran smiled. This sure is Sakura. Lopsidedly beaming as he shakes his head in the process. Gazing back again at the sarcastic lady, She's really different when she's in school. He thought while recalling the earlier events in the university, which was mostly, composed of the disguised lady that's glaring furiously to her schoolmates.


After their training, they decided to head straight to their condo since Sakura needed to be tutored in math. But unfortunately, only bantering, cursing and teasing was made in his two-hour lecture with the lithe form.


And still…he really couldn't believe that the serious, violent, skeptical, geek-looking Nakamura Shun in the school is the same witty, cheery, and beautiful Kinomoto Sakura he knew. Heck! Their only common denominator is being stubborn! He affirmed, writing another equation for the young Japanese lady to solve.


"Hmp! If I've known that you'll be like this, I should have let Cheng-sensei teach me." Sitting up and crossing smugly her arms to her bosom.





Cra—





"Moreover, almost all of our classmates offered their help!" nodding her head as she remembers how those jerk frantically recommends that they should be her tutor.





Cra—





"Heh! Even the playboy, Zheng wants to teach me!"





CRACK!





That does it! Syaoran yelled in his mind as the pencil lead shatter into pieces in the pad.


"Hoe?!" looking back at the silent guy next to her. Widening her eyes, "Syaoran! That's the eleventh time I'm going to sharpen my pencil!"


"A-ehehe." Sweat dropping while Sakura snatched the poor pencil from his hand. He's still shocked at the possessiveness he has when it comes to Sakura. Heck! Almost everyone in school could see that. Well… except for one…


He still hasn't got the guts to tell him what he feels for her. Honestly, he's still afraid of the outcome if he said those three words he's been keeping for a long time now. And unfortunately, he has a very good hunch of what will happen if that time comes. It's either; Sakura will give him a sarcastic answer. Or worst, a good ol' punch of hers.


But seriously, he still doesn't know how to say it to her. He's scared that the ethereal beauty will slip from his grasp when he told her that thing. He had kept her on his side for this long… and he didn't want to waste it with just those three simple words.


It's not yet the right time… he thought, remembering every word she had said about feelings... About how it destroyed her life and everything…


He's just really fortunate that the Japanese lady didn't blame him for the pictures. He must admit, that he really enjoyed those two days with the true and female Sakura. But somehow, he feels guilty about everything. Because, that weekend wherein Sakura had showed her true self is the main reason as to why she became popular again in their campus.


And truth must be said… that when he saw the reaction of his housemate about the pictures, he almost died… For in those deep emerald pools, held again a deep feeling of being betrayed. Making all his efforts in winning her true smile to be put in vain. Thus, without any hesitations, he instantly grabs her hand because he knew right then and there that he'd be losing Sakura if he didn't do something. For he knew what she's been thinking…that her vulnerability was the one that brought her in this chaotic state…





She's been hurt… once more.





And again… I didn't see it coming
… Besides, he was the one who had given another reason—which was unconsciously—for the angel to close again the door of her heart to the outside world.


Demo… I won't give up. He stated, gathering all the yellow pads then placing it inside his book.





BOOG!





"Let's get out! This place is very boring…" suddenly closing the math book after some realizations, "It's almost seven-thirty, and I'm really hungry." Smiling back at the surprised lady that's sharpening the pencil and making a face when she saw how short the marker had become. "Don't worry, I'll treat you, demo… in one condition…" crawling near the white sofa then getting a big brown box underneath.


"Oh my. Another surprise." Sakura said sarcastically while Syaoran handed her the box. Again, emerald orbs starts to widen. "No way!" she yelled after seeing what's inside the package. "I would definitely not going to wear that one!" shouting further as she stood up and sit on the white couch.


True, that she really find the dress beautiful—a classic, white satin halter gown with emerald brooch on the right side—and also the white open-toed sandals with emerald details that comes with it, but she couldn't accept it. For she knew that if she did, she'll be forced to become herself again. Thus, something bad might happen after that.


"I will not wear that one! Over my dead body!" she stated defiantly while rolling her eyes upward.


"Come on! It doesn't bother you when you wear something like that in our tour…" he said, giving back the box that the young lady had placed in the table. "Anyhow, this will only be the third time that you'll wear something that's appropriate for your gender, since the school wouldn't allow you to wear skirts."


"I wouldn't even dream of wearing one." She replied dryly. "Besides, I just want to help you with Fei Xi and I was just forced to wear the second dress because you threatened me that you'll not accompany me to the Teddy bear kingdom… Heck! You still owe me for defending you from Fei Xi!"


He then sits beside her with a look of impishness in his amber orbs, "I haven't forgot that… That's why I buy this for you because we're going somewhere… or… are you just too chicken to wear one because you have an unpleasing figure." Winking at her teasingly.


"You know that what you told me was lame… and I'm not going to buy that one."


He grinned. "Fine! I won't push you to wear this…" covering the box and then placing it on his lap.


"Glad you understood." Nodding her head as she stood up and walk her way to her room. Hah! I'm not going to be fooled again for that one! She thought smugly while opening the door. "What the…" running her way towards the lounge, not minding to close the door of her room.


"Li Xiao Lang, What did you do to my cabinet?!" she shouted furiously, huffing heavily as she glare daggers at the innocent-looking wolf.


"What did I do now?" sitting straight while widening his ocher pools for a more childlike look.


God! He's so handsome—wha! What am I thinking? "Don't tell me that crap, stupid! You planned this, huh?" collaring the handsome guy, taking a deep breather, "I shouldn't have let you get my math books in my room…"


"So what if I planned it? You should be thankful that I didn't include your underwear drawer… nice panties, by the way… wonder if you're wearing them at school since you're a guy!" he ribbed, though he was just lying. Hell! He isn't a pervert, thus, he didn't even dared to open the bottom drawer which has an 'off-limits' sticker.


"Why you!" pushing him back at the sofa as he thrusts the parcel to her.


"I'm not going anywhere. I'll just cook something for myself later."


"A-ah…" waving his index finger, "…you forgot that we didn't have any stored foods… remember, I haven't done any groceries for this week, ne?"


Crossing her arms, "Then I wont eat for today Besides, I'm still not hungry—BWURP!" as her stomach opposed what she just stated.


He smirked.


"You're impossible!" grabbing infuriatingly the box. She didn't have a choice for she's really hungry. Studying math did made a major damage in her stomach. And unfortunately, wearing the dress is the only way she could eat since she can't get out of their condo with only her big shirt and cycling shorts on.


"You're welcome…" smirking roguishly to the fuming seraph in front of him









XOXOXOXOX









Soft humming of air-con filled the coupé, as the housemates still held different feelings for each other.





Annoyance and Love…





Funny, how these two opposite words make the couple matched perfectly. They're like the Yin and the Yang wherein they both have different auras, but can still mix in perfect harmony…





Or do they?





"Like what you see?" the yang force, or the handsome Li-heir mockingly said to the frowning, yet staring lady at him. "I hope that I can still reach our destination without melting in my seat." He further rib, taking another look at her in the view mirror while driving.


"Egotistic." she spat, as she turned her gazed to the window.


But she must confess that the young man really looked handsome—no—Godly is more appropriate, since his black suit over his white long-sleeved and deep green—almost black—tie really complement his fine-looking physique and his intimidating looks. She then smiled, but still not tearing her eyes from the window. "Your coarse mouth doesn't suit your face, why don't you do something about that?"


"Well… both your mouth and your face are coarse. Why don't you do something about that?" he replied as he take another look at the view mirror. He wouldn't let Sakura catch him gazing at her, ne?


True, that he had seen the young lady in dress, but this one is different. He still can't help but be awed at the stunning appearance of his friend. And now, he understood as to why their schoolmates keep on asking her out. But wait till they see her true self…


They wouldn't just go and invite her for a date if that happens… He bet that they would even ask her hand in marriage... well… if they want a stubborn lady for a wife… he cheerily thought.


But for now… it's only his privileged to see the true Kinomoto Sakura.


"We're here." He confirmed as they stop at the front glass door of the building.


"Where exactly is 'here'?" Sakura asked as one of the men in mandarin-collar suit open her door. "Thank you." calmly nodding and being cautious of her gown while stepping out of the car.


"Don't worry, we're still on Earth. So you don't have to familiarize yourself with Martians and other aliens." Teasing as he also stepped out and gave his key to the nearest servant for the parking of his car.


"Hahaha…" sighing, "Seriously, Li. Where are we?"


"Welcome to Mandarin Hotel!"


"Well, that answers your question." He mocked behind her. Realizing that she was facing her back to him, he started his plan.


"Do you always have to give me a sarc—wha!" she stopped, instantly seizing the cold thing around her neck.


"It's part of your surprise…" he whispered behind her ear, fastening the platinum necklace at her back. "…See for yourself."


She then look down at the pendant in her hand and smile, "I hope that you'll stop spoiling me for I don't know how to repay you." thumbing the beautifully crafted pendant in her hand. By the looks of it, it was customized because it's really very rare to have a pendant shaped in a cherry blossom style. Moreover, with morganite—or what people called pink emerald—as its petals, green emerald for its leaves and diamond as the core… it was sure a modified one.


"Aww… come on, Sakura. Have you heard me asking for anything?" he beamed, facing the dazed lady, "I know that you feel really bad because I treat you like this, demo, I can't help it… it's just that, I can't express how happy I am to become your friend. So I just give you everything that I thought would make you happy…" becoming serious once more as he remember his life. He knows that material things cannot compensate for feelings, because he experienced it in his childhood years. And truly, it's really a depressing thing. "I'm really sorry if I offended you in some way."


Shaking her head, "Of course not. Don't ever think about that… " She understood everything. She's aware that the young wolf still cannot express his self towards others. And it was really ironic since the young man was the one who told him about feelings, yet he also has predicament with it.


Maybe we can learn from each other…
she thought, while looking directly at the amber pools. "… I'm really grateful for everything—your thoughtfulness and all. I must say that it was really sweet of you to give me everything I wished for… and if you don't stop that attitude of yours… I think I might fal—f-fail you in the end… I-I m-mean is that when you asked me for a favor, what I will do won't be enough repay all those good things you've done to me..." swallowing a lump that has formed in her throat. God! That was so close! What am I thinking? Bowing her head as the heated battle in her mind is still going on.


True, that in the whole duration of her stay here in Hong Kong, she couldn't ignore the fact on how kind, generous, thoughtful and caring the young wolf was. Heck! She isn't that stone cold as to not feel the deep concern of the Li-heir for her. And she almost slipped on telling him that she might fall for him. Yes…





Might…





Fall…





For…





Him.





The mere thought of that scares her. She doesn't want to go into that process again wherein she'll be badly bruised in the end. Though she trusted him with all her heart, she couldn't ignore that he's a man and that his species had harmed her in the past.


Moreover, she doesn't want to fall because falling means assuming things. She might begin to think that somehow, deep in her heart, something is telling her that the Chinese guy have greater feelings for her than just plain friendship. And she doesn't want that to happen.


It was true that Syaoran admitted to her that he admired her… well… actually, not her but the lady in the canvas. But she doesn't know if he still feels the same for her. So, it's really a bad thing if she fell. And if his kindness will not change, then… she'll be doomed.


"You okay?" Syaoran said, seeing different expressions in her face. God! Doesn't she know how beautiful she is? Heaving a sigh, "Let's just forget this conversation, okay? And I'll promise that this will be the last time that I'm going to do this. But you must also promise me that you'll never frown or else, I will not do mine."


"Mou! How can I possibly do that when I always see your face?!" she kidded, lightening the mood of the place, yet she went in vain. Because what she saw in those amber pools were plain seriousness and determination.


"Then, you should get used in receiving gifts, if that's the case."


"Okay, okay! I was just kidding! Man! Why so serious? Gees, do you know that you're really scary when you wear that kind of face?"


He grinned. "Well… thanks for saying that. Now I know that it worked all the time." as his companion placed its right hand to his offered arm, indicating that she accepted the deal. "So… shall we?"


She nodded as they saunter the way to one of the restaurants of the place. Mandarin Grill… she whispered, craning her neck to the gold letters of the place. Biting her lips, N-No way!


"Why shaking?"


"Dummy! Don't tell me that you brought me here to hear your deals?"


"So clever, Sherlock Holmes!" he muttered under his breath while nobly gesturing his hand to a sort of wave to the other people in the restaurant. "I see… you've done your assignment about memorizing some famous restaurants here in Hong Kong."


Rolling her eyes, Duh! "Elementary, my dear Watson." Tightening her hook to the young man, "Is this what I'm bribed into? And what if otousan or even Touya-niichan is also in here?" raising her neck further and finding some familiar faces. But it was futile. "Is this an international gathering?"


"Un." Wincing when he felt her pinching his arm, "… demo, I know that the head only invited two companies from Japan."


"And 'tousan was chosen, ne?" seeing a grin that's forming in Syaoran's lips, "Hey, answer me!" she breathed, secretly stomping the young wolf's shin at the same time.


"Ow! I think I regretted giving you that stilettos."


"Answer me, stupid!" she further demanded as they stopped to one of the tables near the glass window that have a VIP label on it.


"Don't worry, I assure you that neither your father nor your brother will be coming. For I've checked it earlier. So in short, you're free to enjoy this night."


"Yeah right… what about the other company? Care to tell me what's your plan about that one?" she whispered back, stopping herself from running to the nearest door.


"Don't be so paranoid, Sakura. You don't have to worry okay?" then, he sighed, "Anyhow, I would like to apologize for bringing you in here. I know that you don't like to be in formal gathering. It's just that, I don't want strangers clinging on me. Hell! If this weren't that important then I wouldn't even think of going in here." Pulling the chair for Sakura.


"Hmp! I couldn't believe this is happening! I'm in big trouble, Syaoran!"


"Welcome, Mr. Li!" two man in suit stepped forward to the couple, one in gray and one in blue—right before Sakura could sit. "I'm really glad that you came…" the man in gray suit said gleefully, while shaking his hand to the youngest businessman in Hong Kong. His wrinkled forehead, gave way that he's practically twenty years older than the couple.


"I see, you have a very beautiful companion with you." the younger man—but also in his late thirties—said, eyeing Sakura in a way that makes the young beauty received goosebumps whilst giving her a peck on her left hand. "Good evening, milady."


"A… e…" the young lady beside Syaoran stuttered, not knowing what to say. She really doesn't like the idea of going into business balls. It's not that she was embarrassed or anything. It's just that she really don't like talking to strangers. Somehow, it made her feel vulnerable by their weird looks. "Good evening too, kind sirs." She curtsied after the second man also placed a kiss on her hand, giving a cue for the young wolf to introduce her.


"Well… Mr. Tung, Mr. Wai this is my friend…" looking intently at emerald pools in his left, as if asking if what he will be saying next is alright, "…Nakamura Shun." saying her fraud name after seeing her lips pursed. Besides, she'll really be in big trouble if he told them her real identity.


Then, gesturing his hand to the man with dark carroty-colored hair, "Shun... this is Mr. Tung Chee-hwa, Hong Kong's Chief Executive. And the younger gentleman in front of you is Mr. Wai Leung Chui, CEO of Wai Company."


"Its an honor for me to meet you, Mr. Tung, Mr. Wai."


"The pleasure is ours, Ms. Nakamura…. So how's your stay in here?" the older man asked, which made the ethereal beauty relaxed since she wouldn't have to look at the face of the other man. Somehow, she doesn't like how those blue eyes gaze at her.


"Well… I must admit that your country is very rich indeed; may it be in culture or in other things. I'm sure glad that Mr. Li here never fails to tour me every weekends to see some of your hotspots." Smiling sweetly, remembering every place that the young wolf showed her—well, of course, in her male form.


"Ah… I'm really happy that you find Hong Kong very amusing…"


"Hai… demo that's not only what I came here for…" getting somewhat happy at their conversation, "… I'm also finishing up my college degree here. I intend to have my own business when I graduated."


"I see… you're one of those 'independent women' that our modern society is telling about. Your father is sure proud of you because of your will to get a decent work and not just become a plain housewife…"


You have no idea…
She smiled sheepishly while feeling the pressure Syaoran's giving her right hand. Telling her that she, again, fooled another man with her lie.


"Mr. Tung in here is somehow right…" ocean blue pools twinkled as he continue, "…Woman, sure, nowadays are really trying hard to do what men could… like the other company from Japan. Ha! It's really surprising that its head is a woman." Giving his sly smirk that made Sakura swallowed in disgust.


"Well… Mr. Wai, we're in the modern world afterall." She modestly replied, yet gritting her teeth secretly on how this man before her could degrade her fellow species. "I think they're not trying hard, because I believe that men and women are equal… so, we woman are just doing what some men is still trying to realize, until now."


One point.
Amber orbs glisten proudly at how his housemate handle the situation. This old man sure was speechless. Looking at the smug features of the man in blue suit and who made Sakura mad.


"I totally agree to that, Ms. Nakamura." The oldest among the four said, amazed at how strong Sakura's conviction was.


"Nakamura-san!"


"Eriol-kun!" Turning her head immediately, only to find the Cheshire-cat-grin of her soon-to-be-cousin-in-law. "Why are you here?"


"Why, Mr. Hiiragizawa. Glad that you could come!" Mr. Wai said, somewhat pleased at how big time this convention was. I think I hit the jackpot! "So, you do know Ms. Nakamura here?"


"Of course, who wouldn't?" kissing Sakura's hand at the exact place where both man did the same gesture. "Ne? Shun-chan." Making the young lady glare at him as he stood on her left.


"Where's your fiancée?" the lad on her right asked, emphasizing the word 'fiancée' to the philandering guy.


Now I know who's the lady this conceited guy was talking about!
The only female in the group thought, opening her mouth to confirm, "Is Aun—"


"—Shun-chan!" The lady in deep violet tube gown greeted, as she walks her way towards them. Her ebony hair that was braided and raised in chignon style at her back really complements her pale complexion, making her like a Goddess in her own way. "I really miss you." hugging her favorite cousin while tears flow from her amethyst orb. Then, "Oh, I'm really sorry." Feeling Eriol's hand as it wiped the tears from her eyes, "I'm sorry for my rudeness, sirs."


"Oh, it's all right, Ms. Daidouji... and Mr. Hiiragizawa here is sure lucky to have you." as black orbs beam in mirth. "You young men are definitely blessed with these angels as your partners…" looking at the two beauties in between Syaoran and Eriol.


"Speaking of angels, Mr. Tung. Mr. Li, Mr. Hiiragizawa, I supposed you've met my daughters…" the CEO of Wai Corporation said, as two ladies with same ocean-blue eyes stepped on his right, making them face Eriol and Tomoyo. The two Chinese ladies are no doubt twins. And with their cherry blonde hair, sharp mold of their feature and sexy halter gowns, they sure can take any guy they desired. "These are my daughters, Aixiang and Dixiang. My dears, the one in front of you is Mr. Hiiragizawa's fiancée, Ms. Daidouji Tomoyo. And this beautiful lady before me is Ms. Nakamura Shun. She's Mr. Li's friend." Giving a lopsided smile when he uttered the last word.


"Good evening." The one who was called Dixiang and whose hair was in shoulder-length politely greeted, yet you could see some glint in her eyes when she saw the man in front of Mr. Tung. "Oh, before I forgot, I would like to congratulate you in your last game, Mr. Li." Offering her hand for Syaoran to shake and kissed which the young wolf, somehow, reluctantly did.


"Oh, would you mind excuse us, ladies? For we're really needed to start our deals."


"Well, I think I should go too, ne, Mr. Tung?"


"Of course, you're the representative of your company…. But forgive us if you're not used to cigars."


"Don't mind me, I'm used to it." Tomoyo assured the old man. Who wouldn't anyway? She thought, recalling some of her deals that made her several gowns smelled like tobacco. She then hooked her arm to Eriol's and gave a peck on Sakura's cheek. "I think we will have a long discussion later." She whispered, causing Sakura to somehow shiver. She knows that she can't easily get away in 'Tomoyo's interrogation'. "See you later." Nodding her head as Eriol escorted her towards the room, followed by the two older men.


Better prepare myself for that.
Sakura reminded herself as she felt strong arm encircled her waist.


"I'm sorry for the inconvenience. But I don't want you to suffocate yourself to that room…" Syaoran breathed in her right ear, tickling her senses with his autumn scent. "I'll be back very soon, I promise…. Just be careful with those two, they seem to have grown grudges on you." also giving a butterfly kiss on her cheek.


"And you just have to make it worst." She gritted between her smile while glancing at the Gemini that were practically glaring daggers at her. "They look like they would lunged at me, right after you leave."


"Don't worry, I know you can defend yourself… you're a monster afterall." He ribbed, yet he knows that he shouldn't worry about her. She was different from other girls afterall. He knows that she can properly defend herself—well, no drugs included—and can even get her self out from any danger.


When he first saw her, he thought that she was really vulnerable, even in her male form. But she proved him wrong. She showed him that she could do things what other men could. Heck! She can even do better than others! She was his equal. His partner.


This young puny girl might be weak looking, but within her lithe form dwell a strong lady; a young beauty that doesn't need anyone to save her, but just a companion to support her. And that's what he's doing. Though, he still couldn't stop to be troubled… I love her too much to get hurt…


"And you still have the nerve to tease me?" she muttered back, "Just come back very quick, okay? Or I'll go home early without you…. remember, I'm just doing you a favor."


"I'll be here in no time, promise."


You better be…
she thought while looking at the fading back of her housemate.


"Ms. Nakamura, pardon me for asking, but are you somewhat related to Nakamura Shun from HKU? And I think I've seen you before…" The other one with the French twist style of hair queried, "…Oh… now I know… you're the waitress in the well known bistro in the east, right?"


"Un, I'm working there to support my studies." Sitting to the waiting chair that Syaoran offered earlier as the two also took their seats adjacent to her. She preferred this lady than the one that's still glaring at her. This one, that's wearing a halter light pink gown, is more timid than her sister in classic black. "And I never knew that my brother is that popular." phony beaming at the sisters while feeling proud at how she come up with another story. "What can I say…? We're twins afterall… coincidence, ne? And my father and mother really did have a great sense of humor, that's why they christened us with same names."


"Well… that's the first time I've encountered twins with only one name… I never knew he has a twin sister." Aixiang nodded, "I think I need to update our fans club."


"Eh?!" the young Japanese blurted out, surprised at what she just heard. God! I bet that Syaoran will laugh at me when he heard that one. "E-Excuse me?"


"Oh, I'm sorry! Did I surprise you? Hah, you see… even though your brother is not that manly, he's really good at playing soccer…" the lady beamed while the other one just looked dryly. "Oh, where is he now?"


"Well… to tell you the truth… I really don't know... you see, since we both want to be independent, we decided that we should live separately and just try to contact each other if we want to." Smiling widely while big sweat drop formed in her head, "And he doesn't know that I'm here, you see… Syaoran just invited me to this gathering because he wanted me to meet some people… and I can't tell him about this one or he'll burst out like a volcano."


"Oh my God! You're brother's really that over-protective? Aww… how I wished I were his girlfriend."


"You have no idea." Imagining not her male form but the guy she left in Japan… her real brother and the tyrant in the family. Touya… "Syaoran and I will be in big trouble if he knows this one." Well…I don't really know what will happen when he found me and even discover that I'm living with a guy.


"If I may ask, what's your relationship with Mr. Li? Did you happen to meet at the restaurant or your brother introduced you?" forgetting everything about Sakura's 'fake' brother.


Now, this one's a bit forward…
taken aback at how demanding the young lady was. They sure have same age like her, but this one is broadcasting that she's superior to her. Maybe it isn't bad if I do some teasing on her… "Well… Syaoran and I are just friends…"


"Just friends?" Aixiang wondered, somehow not believing what Sakura has told, "But according to what I saw and what he showed earlier isn't just a friendly gesture for me… he's really known as composed and very sober… but earlier, he isn't like the beast that people were talking about… maybe he likes you…"


"Maybe…" she smiled as she gave hanging note to the sisters. "But really, Syaoran is a true gentleman. I never thought of him as a beast. He's basically kind and caring when my brother introduced him to me."


"I don't believe you… you're just making some stories." Dixiang spat, getting jealous every minute as she crossed her arms and raised her brow.


"Well, I'm not telling you to believe me. I'm just telling you what I really thought of him." smiling innocently. She may have a childish look on her, but she's really evil when it comes to teasing people, especially, females who put up a fight for just one guy. "He's really nice, you see. And I truly enjoyed my stay here… Actually I'm really happy that Syaoran and I did met for he's such a wonderful man… but I must admit… he really spoils me so much." Resting her right elbow in the round table with her fingers playing the pendant in her neck. Need to say more…? She mischievously thought while giving a smile to them. She knew that the sisters got what she meant.


"Let's go, Aixiang." The furious lady said, standing abruptly and still not taking her glare off the Japanese beauty. "Excuse us, Ms. Nakamura."


"It's okay. Nice meeting you, by the way." Smiling at the twins as she took a sip from her champagne glass. Peace, at last! Taking a breather as she observes the other guests in the place.


Different types of people crowded the ballroom. But these people are not just any ordinary individuals. For glittering jewelries, and slick gowns and suits adored their body, telling everyone that they're from the elite part of the society. Nevertheless, this isn't new to her. She couldn't even remember how many gatherings she had attended ever since they joined the upper crust.


Yes, they weren't rich back then. Her father was only a teacher in Archeology at their University, while her mother was just a plain housewife. But because of her parents' perseverance and with the help of Tomoyo's mother—Sonomi—their family became well heeled. However, if she were to choose what kind of lifestyle she prefers, she will choose their former life…


Since they became wealthy, people—especially guys—keep on asking her out. And she does know what is their motive… money. Funny, how such simple thing can corrupt people's mind. If not for wealth, Takao wouldn't even dared to court her. And if not for wealth… she wouldn't be in here in the first place.


She isn't blaming her father or anyone about what's happening to her. She fully understands what her father was doing. Moreover, she knows that the engagement wasn't her father's choice… for it was inevitable… that sooner or later, the topic about her marriage will be discussed.





Whether she likes it or not…





"I don't have any choice…" turning her head to the window, as thoughts flow in and out of her mind that she didn't even noticed the time.


The city lights were really spectacular but not that impressive like in Petrus. Maybe because she was really happy that day, or its just because of the height of the said restaurant. Whatever it is, one thing's for sure… that she'll be really missing the company of Syaoran.


God! What am I thinking again?!?
Shaking her head and closing her eyes in the process while she still try to take away the thoughts in her mind. "It's starting to become annoying." She said exasperatedly, opening her eyes.


She couldn't remember when it started. It's just that, one day; thoughts about the amber-eyed guy flooded her mind. On how protective, kind and understanding the young wolf was. And after that, her life has tuned 180 degrees, a total mix-up in her barricaded identity. Because every time her mind is at peace, the handsome image of Syaoran invaded it, making her calm nerves in total chaos.


"I think you just putted a hole on your plate."


"T-Tomoyo-chan! I-I thought you were in the meeting?" giving out a surprised, yet with the same look of happiness when she saw her earlier.


"Don't worry about that! Actually, okaasan permitted Eriol to handle our company since he's going to be my husband in few months. 'Kaasan said that Eriol should learn all about our company because she's giving it to him anyway… so you see… I'm not really that important in here. I just agreed to come here because I want to see you."





Hell! If this weren't that important then I wouldn't even think of going in here!





"Hoe?"


"Daijoubu?" Tomoyo asked, sitting beside Sakura while smiling at the same time. She was really startled when she heard her trademark. It's been a long time since she heard it and she's really happy because it means that her Sakura is slowly coming back to them. "What were you thinking?"


"N-Nothing! I-I just remembered something." She stuttered as she bowed her head. Guilt hastily crawls her heart as she remembers her taunt to the young wolf. She now realized that she was definitely wrong when she told Syaoran about doing him a favor. In fact, he surprised him again by bringing her in here to see her cousin. "So, how's otousan and oniichan?"


Beaming widely, "Well… they're still looking for you. Demo, I must say that uncle's really worried… you see, it's because of you that he didn't attend this meeting."


"I don't know, Tomoyo... I'm confused…" Focusing her gaze to the champagne glass before her. "I really missed them that I even wanted to go back and do what I have to do in the first place. And now that I think about it… I can't help but feel guilty that I became selfish and childish back then…."


"Are you sure about that?"


"Well… not at all… somehow, I've come to like it here in Hong Kong. But the other half of me is telling me that I need to go back. I'm really puzzled, Tomoyo-chan..." Looking up, only to see her best friend grinning at her, "Nani?"


She smiled. "When I asked you the same thing in our last conversation, you got serious, saying, 'I won't go back!' with a defiant tone in your voice. You've become more accepting, Sakura-chan."


"Hoe… really?" Receiving a nod from the ebony-haired lady.


"I must say that Hong Kong really did a great job on you. I'm really happy for you, Sakura-chan! I thought that you totally became cold." Hugging tightly her best friend while wiping her tears simultaneously.


"Mou! You're so emotional, Tomo-chan! Of course, I'm still here…" wiping the damp face of the lady, "I'm sorry if I caused you trouble and gave you pains. I know that I don't have good explanation for being passive to others. But you must understand that I didn't wished for It." staring guiltily at those amethyst pools, "Honestly, I didn't even know what happened to me after the incident. It's like I have fallen on an abyss wherein I couldn't collect myself to go up and fight because of the security it offers me… With that promise of refuge, who wouldn't stay in there anyway, ne?"


"I'm just grateful that you realized it now… That the pit that you've been saying isn't really comforting you, but taking you away from us."


Swaying her head, "Iie, I didn't realized it myself. Syaoran helped me. He's the one who told me to trust once again. So I guess I really owe my life to him because if not for him, I think I'll be still in the dark with anger, shame and guilt engulfing me."


"Well… that's a shock. Eriol said that Li-kun doesn't open to anyone. That he also despises female population."


"You could say that… if only you were here when I first met him. I almost strangle him when he said girls are wimpy." Shaking her head while laughing at the scene in her mind, "Demo, I think you just need to understand him. He's really humane inside."


She then took as sip from her champagne while looking inquisitively at the emerald-eyed beauty. It was quite a shock that the aloof lady who had left Japan is the same accepting and honest beauty she's now talking to. This is just like the old times wherein Sakura will tell her everything under the sun, while she just sit comfortably and listen to her friend.


Yet, she knows that she cannot bring back what's been left behind. So all she could do now is just to help her mend the broken pieces of her best friends life. "Don't you think it's time for you to have someone again…?" seeing her cousin's furrowed brows, "I've been thinking that Li-kun is such a nice guy that you even open up to him… And he's a fresh experience for you. So, it would be nice if the two of you became a couple…" looking off into the distance, "Li-kun's lonely and you're also lonely and—"


"—We're both lonely and what do we have? Loneliness. God, Tomoyo! Don't you think that what you're saying will only make us more miserable…? And where did you get those silly ideas? C'mon… don't say stuff like that!"


"Ah!" sweating as she puts on a sunny smile. "Gomen ne, gomen nasai. I was only talking on impulse. Forget about it, 'kay?!" Gee, maybe I'm a bit straightforward in telling this to her.


Do you think I can do that? And you just have to make it worst!
As image of grinning Syaoran flash in her mind. Not again…


"Excuse me ladies…"


"Eriol-kun!"


He nodded. "I'm sorry to interrupt you both, but…" turning his gaze to Tomoyo, "…may I ask this beautiful lady to dance with me?" giving out his Cheshire smile as he offered his hand to the lady. "I hope that you wouldn't embarrassed me in front of Ms. Nakamura here."


"My God, Eriol! You're so corny you know." Sakura commented while mocking her best friend. "So, what can you say, Tomo-chan? Mr. Playboy is asking for a dance"


"Sakura!" hissing her name as blood creep on his face.


"Hehehe, just joking!" the prodigal daughter said sheepishly. "So, Tomo-chan? Do you accept?"


"A…eh…" glancing at her side and then accepting the invitation when she saw that Sakura had nodded in affirmation. "I'll be back, Sakura."


"It's okay, Tomo-chan. Enjoy the night." She beamed—as the couple walks to the dance floor—yet she's a bit worried since she could see a figure coming in their table. Mr. Wai… she whispered while giving a nervous smile to the approaching man. Sure, the older man is part of the elite circle but it doesn't necessarily mean that he couldn't do something inappropriate for his status… he had shown it earlier, anyways.


"Such a strange scene… an angel being left out in this big ballroom…" the man commenced while pulling the chair beside her, "Mind if I join you?"


She nodded. She didn't really want him to be here and from the looks of it, something's telling her that there'll be an unexpected conversation to be held.


"So…" placing his elbow on the table while leaning forward to the silent lady, "You're Mr. Li's friend, huh? Care to tell me that one?"


How rude this man could get?
Sakura thought while trying to distanced herself as far as possible from the man's body. She couldn't bare the smell of cigar and liquor in his breath. Moreover, his gaze really troubled her.


"I see… you're being silent about that one, huh?" he grinned, inching closer to the lithe form, "I must say that you have a good catch. Hah! Of all the people, you even got yourself with the most wanted bachelor in Hong Kong… you sure is very talented."


"What do you mean by that, sir?"


"Don't pretend like you didn't know, my dear… I know what you're thinking. Arm-candies are all the same… so how much did he pay you." looking down at the jewelry that the young man had given her, "I see… you're quite expensive, huh? Mind if I borrow you? Is thousand enough? You look like someone I knew…" shrugging his shoulders, "…well maybe she's your mother… Oh well… a slut will always be a slut, right?" (Kami-chan: 'arm-candy' is a formal term for prostitutes… .)


That does it! No more Ms. Poised and respect for elders!





SLAP!





The whole ballroom went silent as all eyes were upon them, waiting impatiently on who'll be the one to utter a word. She then stood up. "Please, don't pretend that you know me. You have no right to talk about my mother like that… and if you're thinking that I'm cheap, then try to look in the mirror, sir, and maybe you'll find a more despicable person in there." She said calmly while balling her fists at her sides. God! Why do people always accuse her of something she isn't?


"What's happening in here?"


"Well, Mr. Li. Seems like your arm-candy—"


"—And what made you say that?" hastily interrupting the standing man after knowing where it will lead. "What made you possibly think that Ms. Nakamura is like that?" he added in a compose manner for they're still in a formal gathering. Yet his closed and whitened knuckles somehow gave way that he's really mad.


"Syaoran, it's better if you just don't mind him…" Eriol—after seeing the outstanding temper of Sakura, Tomoyo and him hurriedly go to the crime scene—whispered to his best friend with worry etched on his face. Seeing a very serious Syaoran and even ticking him off is a very bad idea. For he knew that the little wolf would also be letting his temper out. It is his attitude. The Li-heir doesn't like backing out from any issue, especially when it comes down to… "Sakura." Saying the name that made the angry lad to leave his gaze from the silenced old man to the Japanese beauty that's hugging her cousin.


"She's okay." Tomoyo mouthed to the Syaoran after seeing the concerned look in his eyes. It's really a wonder for her on how those intense orbs instantly changes into a soft caring look when it comes down to her best friend.


Nodding his head, "Mr. Wai Leung Chui…" as he start to address the offender. "…President of a well-known company in Hong Kong, great successor of Wai nobility and one of the most respected people in the business world… envied for great achievements and talents in commerce… yet… I pity you." impassively boring his ocher eyes to the blue ones, "Accusing a lady of something that's totally fallacious is utterly deplorable… and now, I don't even think if your title can raise you from the ignominy you've placed upon yourself… such a waste, really." Ending his speech with a tone of disappointment and controlled anger. He really didn't know why he's still talking courteously to this perverted man, since he knew in the first place why the guy picked on Sakura. Heck! He isn't blind as to not see that the old geezer wants him for his daughters.


The civilized delivery of the Li-heir amazed the people in the room. It was really a surprising one for them since it's their first time to hear a rather long speech from the youngest businessman. His words impressed them and made them escalated their respect for the young man. Even the Chief executive of Hong Kong was proud at how calm he addressed what's on his mind. What a fine young man we have here. Mr. Tung gladly mused while walking toward the group.


"We must leave now." Syaoran stated, still staring at the baffled man. "I do hope you understand what I told you. And I apologize for being rude." turning his head, "Mr. Tung, I'm sorry for the scandal, I do hope you forgive me this time."


Shaking his head, "You just did what's right, my son… Take care." As he willingly accept Syaoran's hand.


"Thanks." Seizing Sakura's trembling fingers, ushering her towards the door. "We'll just see you tomorrow." He said to their best friends before totally walking out of the place.



































TBC…
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So, how is it? I really hope that you like this one… hmmm…. What do you think will happen next? I really hope you like Touya and Meiling pairing up! =P I really think that they're cute together and it's about time, ne?

I also hope that you didn't find my chapter boring—Sakura's secret being revealed, Touya and Meiling's coupling, and everything about this chapter—for I really made a major brainstorming for that. (Heck! I think I always make sure to brainstorm before beginning another chapter. Tee hee!)

If I have offended you in anyway… I'm really sorry about that. Because, you see… I have no inspiration. And I didn't think that running for an award is really that hard… I can say that our university is a monster! nod nod your grades isn't your true grades!… what I mean is that… like in our Medical-Surgical subject, we have a test that have a 107 items, and the highest in the 8 sections got 103 and the lowest is 71. So, automatically, the girl who got 103 have a transmutation grade of 98% while the girl/boy who got the 71 have a transmutation grade of 68%….it was totally unfair! sob sob sob and sad to say, I only got 89 which is the median score! sob sob I hate their computations! It's really unfair!

huff huff huff sorry for that one. ;)

So, I'm really sorry if my story got boring or I didn't update early, for I really have a major writer's block and I really feel depressed about my grades… it's not that I'm a grade conscious… but hey! It'd be a greatest achievement if I bring home a medal, ne?

So, that's it! Review! Review! Review! Review! Review! Review! Review! Review! Review! OK? Or there'll be a great delay for the next chapter which is I must say… a chapter you shouldn't miss! Hehehe!

And if you have some questions… or you want me to personally update you of my works then feel free to ask me, ok? Just write your e-mail add on the review and I'll gladly do it for you…:)

Oh well, review please!

PLEASE REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW, AND REVIEW!!!!!
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