Title: My Sakura
By: Cherry Lea
Summary: Syaoran is forced into a marriage with Sakura. He is a cold hearted person. But a glance at Sakura makes his heart warm as if a fire lit up. He is finding a way to get out of the marriage but what if suddenly a baby is involved! And what will happen if his most precious possession is stolen by Sakura! Will he be furious! Read to find out. Please R&R.
Rating: R
Aging: Sakura & Tomoyo- 18……Syaoran & Eriol- 21
Pairing: SakuraXSyaoran, TomoyoXEriol
Genre: Romance/Drama
Previous Chapter:
"Don't play with her heart, it'll break her to pieces," Eriol suddenly was beside him in the passenger seat.
"I'm trying," Syaoran changed gear and drove off.
"Not hard enough, ain't it obvious to you? She's falling in love with you," Eriol still won't change the topic.
"So?" Syaoran stir the wheel expertly.
"By the end of all this, you're not going to be the same, so does she. That's all I'm saying," Eriol try to pry more but Syaoran just shut his mouth.
'I'm sure she'll change but me, I'm not sure.' Syaoran speaks in his heart.
Chapter 4: Spending Time Together
"You are my angel Ying Fa," the man hugged her from behind. Sakura feels wonderful in his arms. They were meant for each other. He bends his head and buried it in her hair.
"I love your scent my dearest," Then he moves it aside baring her soft white neck to him. He kissed her neck gently. Inhaling more of her scent. Sakura move her head side ways giving him more excess to her neck. Oh… how she loves the way he makes her feel. He tightened his hold on her waist. Sakura wrapped her arm around his. Stroking it with much gentleness and love while he did the same to her neck. It feels familiar, his touch, and his aura. It makes her calm.
"Don't ever leave me again, you're mine Ying Fa. Promise me," The man pleaded.
"Never, I promise…" A tear spills down to her smooth cheeks.
Melody of her favourite song wakes her up, Sakura reach her phone on the bedside table.
"Moshi…Moshi…," Sakura rubs the sleepiness from her eyes. She looks at her clock by her side. It was 9 o'clock in the morning.
"Ohayo Sakura, sleepy?" The voice warms her heart and makes her smile.
"Ohayo Syaoran, how did you know my number?"
"You're my fiancée obviously everyone is more than glad to give it to me, but somehow I've got my sources" Sakura laughs. Syaoran is impossible.
"Just want to make sure you're up, someone told me you're always late in the morning," Syaoran teased.
"ALMOST! ALMOST LATE! I'm never late for school, but almost late," Sakura stammered.
"Never mind, be ready by 10.30 okay, I'll pick you up. Eriol is driving Tomoyo. So I guess we're alone. Be ready girl," Syaoran hanged up the phone. Sakura sigh and did the same. The shower is running it must be Tomoyo. Sakura held up her left hand and look at the ring that Syaoran slips on her fingers yesterday at the Café. He slips off the ring from his finger and put it on her before he kissed her. Sakura kiss the ring. She can't believe he kneel on his knee. Sakura laugh a little. Syaoran is impossible, she knew he heard her. 'Ow…sometimes Syaoran can be so adorable'. The ring was beautiful. Platinum with three dark green emerald stone imbedded in a line. Sakura loves the shade of green it's too beautiful to put in words.
(Hey guys sorry I forgot to add the part where Syaoran slips the ring on Sakura's finger. I know it's awful but so sorry. I really… really forgot. But hey I make it up didn't I? Enjoy the story)
Sakura walk out to her balcony. Mum, dad and Touya are not home. Her parents went to London yesterday for some business arrangement, while Touya went out early since there're a breakfast meeting held at the office. Sakura claps her hand she ran to her bed side and rings a small bell. Her maid Marie came in.
"Morning Sakura, I see you're in a good mood today," Marie closes the door behind her and made up her bed. Sakura smile brightly and open her closet door wide. Sakura insist her maid calling her Sakura, they're very close since Marie help her with everything. She even talks about Syaoran with her.
"Marie, I'm gonna have breakfast upstairs by the balcony today, everyone's gone isn't it? I have to hurry. I'm going out for a movie. Syaoran's gonna pick me up by 10.30," Sakura chatted happily. Marie smile.
"Now its Syaoran? I thought it was Li-San?" Marie teased. Sakura just blushed.
"Breakfast for two coming up, better get ready Sakura, or else you'll be late. I'll be up shortly," Marie is done making up the bed. Sakura stares at her cloths.
"The same problem every time isn't it Sakura?" Tomoyo came up behind her all ready except for her cloths. Sakura sighed and sits on her beanie stool still facing the closet.
"What shall I wear today Tomoyo?" Sakura whine.
"Let's see……"Tomoyo tapped her chin looking at Sakura.
"Cheeky, sexy, casual, sporty, or feminine?" Tomoyo asked her.
"Sporty is out of question, cheeky… will be a no, since yesterday was cheeky. Casual is not really appropriate. Then there is sexy and feminine, I think it'll be feminine today," Sakura made her decision.
"Okay then, here is your Levi's Princess cut," Tomoyo brings out a pair of jeans. "Blouse… here it is, your white halter neck with a few red printed love shapes on the end of it. Feminine you are today my dear, satisfied?" Tomoyo asked again.
"Shoes and accessories," Sakura turns to her dressing table.
"White wide hair band, today just let ur hair falls back. I'll ask Marie to brush it till shine okay," Sakura nodded happily.
"Then, red big sunglass for your eyes. Wear the earrings Sheifa bought you, I'll suit perfectly. Oh not forgetting your red kitten high heels, there… all done. Now go get your ass in the shower. Its already 9.20," Sakura squeaked and rushed into the bathroom. Tomoyo shakes her head. Sakura will always be Sakura. She stepped into her light blue sundress and tied her hair into two ponytails by the side. She puts on her dark blue wedges. She isn't the high heeled type girl, she prefers wedges, sandals and flip flop for casual wear. Tomoyo stepped out to the balcony and thanked Marie when the breakfast was served.
"Marie hurry up, its all ready 10 o'clock," Sakura fidgeted in her seat. She has finish taken her bath and Marie is drying her hair with the hair dryer. Sakura is still in her bath robe.
"Relax, Sakura. I'll be done in time just as usual. For now, eat some raisin bread," Marie answered coolly. She knew Sakura since she was a baby. At that time she was 9 and her mother was working with the Kinomoto family. Fujitaka asked her to be Sakura's companion. That's why they are so close.
"Here Sakura, your raisin bread and a glass of fresh milk," Tomoyo brings her meal to the dresser.
"Thanks Tomoyo, what time will Eriol pick you up?" Sakura munched on her raisin bread.
"Erm…10.15. He wants to walks around the Penguin park first, he'll speed dial me when he reach there." Sakura nodded and reached for her glass of milk.
"Who'll buy the tickets for us?" Sakura gave Marie her brush when she's done drying her hair.
"Shan and Rika, you miss them making up last night. They were huddling each other by the end of the night. Shan send Rika home. I think they've already confess to each other,"
"Really! Oow, how sweet. We're soo…going to close up on Rika today. Knowing Shan, he'll try to stop us," Sakura laughs her heart off. "But…I don't think he can…" Tomoyo join her in. Shan surely won't want Rika to tell them what happens last night but Sakura knows better. Tomoyo's cell phone rings.
"Ja ne, Sakura I'll see you at the cinema. Better hurry up Marie or else she'll be late." Marie just laughs. Tomoyo leave for the penguin park.
"Now, all done Sakura. Past me the hair band, I'll put it on you nicely," Sakura did as she was told. Then she jump up to put her cloths on. She has already put on her lip gloss and loose powder. Marie cleans up her room while waiting for her to be ready.
"How do I look Marie?" Sakura stand straight in front of her long mirror after she's done.
"Perfect my dear, why the high heels?" Marie looks at her red kitten high heels.
"Syaoran is much taller, this way I'll be the same height as he is," Sakura answered truthfully.
"Doesn't want to be intimidate is it?" Marie grins. Sakura blush lightly.
"You know me too well Marie, how am I going to live in China without you," Sakura hugged her tightly.
"Don't worry Sakura I'll always be here, I just can't leave Netsuke and the kids," Marie rubs her back. Marie has a family on her own, a husband and her two beautiful daughters.
"I know, I'm gonna miss you Marie but I promise I'll be back as often as possible,"
"Better hurry down stairs I heard the front gate opens," Sakura runs down to meet Syaoran in her front porch.
"So, you're right in time," Syaoran was leaning on his car casually.
"See… I've told you I'm never late," Sakura told him proudly. Syaoran smirks. She looks lovely today. Syaoran can't describe it but she looks like a model who just step out of a fashion magazine. Syaoran open the door for her.
"Come on, let's go. They must have all ready been there," Sakura thank him.
Sakura and Syaoran…
"Is this ur car?" Sakura asked.
"Would it change anything if I told you its mine?"
"No…I was just asking," Sakura was taken aback. 'Why does he always do that, in a minute he's a great companion the second so snappy and serious'. Sakura looks out the window.
"Its mine, I need a car here since I'm gonna come here more often after our company merge," Syaoran answered her question.
"Have my sister told you about the arrangements for our engagement day?" Sakura just shake her head, still looking out the window. She bends her head and looks at her ring.
"We'll go and pick a new ring today for your engagement ring and our wedding ring. It was a spur of a moment thing I did yesterday and I didn't have a ring with me except for that one," Syaoran saw her looking at the ring.
"No," Sakura just shake her head lightly.
"What?" Syaoran was confused, she just said no without a reason.
"I mean, we don't have to pick another engagement ring. I love it," Sakura still staring at her ring finger. Adoring how beautiful it looks like.
"Me too," Syaoran smile lightly. Sakura looked up at him questioningly.
"The ring, I love it too. Then we'll just have to pick our wedding ring. Sheifa said the engagement will be held in our hotel. Your father wants to combine it with the merging function. So, after we get engage formally the merging will take place. Two weeks later our wedding, the girls haven't plan it yet. I thought it'll be better if you plan with them, what do you think?" Syaoran glance at her a little since he is driving.
"Its fine with me, I'll go and see the girls after this," Sakura answered. Syaoran nodded. They arrived at the cinema. Their friends are all waiting in front the cinema.
"Hey you all, have you been waiting long?" Sakura hugged her friends.
"Nah… they probably didn't realize it," Naoko sent a sly smile to the other girls. Tomoyo laugh lightly. She was standing beside Eriol while Rika beside Shan and Mei Lin with Ren. Chiharu is sitting with Takashi on a nearby bench. They eventually are entertaining themselves. Naoko called out for them.
"Hey Rika, what movie did you bought for us?" Sakura asked Rika.
"I didn't, Shan did. What movie ticket did you bought?" Rika turns to Shan.
"Oh…a great one. You guys gonna love it," Shan told the guys. They laugh knowing Shan they already knew.
"So…? Which movie?" Sakura asked again.
"The Red Shoe, it a horror movie," Shan told her. Naoko cheered she loves horror movies.
"Howee…how could you! Ow…" Sakura buried her face in Tomoyo's neck. She almost cry.
"Relax Sakura, it wont be that bad," Tomoyo rubbed her back but still trying to swallow her laughter.
"You, Shan Terada, I told you, No horror movies. Why did you buy it?" Rika sternly turns to Shan pointing a finger to his chest. He was a little scared. Rika was never mad not even strict.
"Well, I thought it'll be fun. I didn't know Sakura scared of horror movies. I thought you are the one who is scared and wont mind since I'm going be there," Shan pleaded.
"Don't worry Shan it's not your fault; Sakura is always scared of ghost. As if there is one out here," Tomoyo teased Sakura who is still burying her face in Tomoyo's neck. Sakura squirmed.
"Aww… Come Kura-Chan. Li-San will be there, no need to be afraid. Right Li?" Tomoyo asked Syaoran. Syaoran just smirk.
"Right Sakura, the ghost itself is scared of Syaoran. Have no worries he'll protect you," Eriol try to sooth her too. The guys laugh their hearts out. The girls just smile. Sakura stand up straight but she is still hugging Tomoyo's arm.
"Think of it this way Sakura, now you're Syaoran's fiancée the ghost will be scared of you too. The ghosts always are scared of the Li. Oh… At least half scared since you are not a Li yet," The guys laugh again Sakura make a face. Chiharu slaps Takashi's arm.
"Stop bugging her you guys," Mei Lin scolded them. Eventually they stop laughing.
"Don't worry Sakura, I'm a Li too, I'll seat with you. Let that ass, Ren who laugh at you sits with Syaoran. After all, that stupid head Shan bought couple seats for us. We'll see how much fun they'll have, ne?" Mei Lin told her. Sakura smile a little. Ren almost drop to his feat.
"Me too, I'll seat with Naoko right behind you," Rika and Naoko smile knowingly. Shan have the same effect like Ren.
"Hoi…Syaoran. Go and take care of your fiancée. She's taking our girl away," Ren was furious Shan agreed. Sakura and the girls laugh.
"Come on Sakura, these guys is not well in the head. Better move away from them," Syaoran take hold of Sakura's arm and walks to their Movie Room.
"Why are the ghosts are scared of the Li, Syaoran?" Syaoran bit his bottom lips to prevent himself from smiling.
"We Li have a connection with these ghosts," Syaoran lie with a straight face.
"Howee…" Sakura's hold on Syaoran's hand tightens. Syaoran grins.
"Don't believe it Sakura. Eriol just made it up, he got it from Takashi since they're hangin with each other a lot lately," Syaoran tell her.
"Oh…" Sakura just swallowed.
"I'm a little sorry for Naoko, she's sitting alone," Sakura turns back to her friends who are chatting while walking slowly to their Movie Room.
"Yeah, I hear Shan accidentally bought a seat with someone next to her. I hope he's not some freaky guy or even over distressed grandma," Syaoran agreed lazily with Sakura. Sakura laugh. 'Sometimes Syaoran is so funny without him even realizing it'. They found their seat it was the middle one. The others seat in front of them. Sakura is a little curious to know who's going to seat with Naoko but the lights went off and movie started. Sakura grab the seat's handle tightly. Syaoran just smile, he reach for her hand softly and hold it. Sakura feels comfortable.
Naoko…
Naoko is feeling a little bad; she's going to be sitting with someone she didn't know. She grumbles a little but after the lights went off she was a little relieved. The person next to her probably isn't coming. The movie started, she was enjoying it but after the first 15 minutes a man seat by her. Naoko starts to feel uneasy but kept it to herself she didn't even turn to her side. Later in the scene it was too much too take, the suspense became more unbearable. Naoko without realising it grab the man's hand that was on the hand rest.
"Naoko, is that you?" Naoko turns immediately.
"Yuki?" Naoko was totally shocked.
"Yeah, I did think it was you but you didn't even turn to see me so I thought maybe you just ignoring me," Yuki explains.
"No, its just I didn't quite like to talk to strangers but if I knew it was you I sure wont do that," Naoko try to assure Yuki. He as he always is smile warmly.
"Its okay," They continue on watching with Naoko feeling more comfortable but a little giddy since she is with Yuki.
After the Movie…
"It wasn't that bad is it Sakura," Tomoyo teased her after they all came out from the movie room.
"But I still hate horror movie and anything to do with ghost," Sakura pouts. The others laugh.
Syaoran is massaging his hand.
"Hey Syaoran, what's with your hand?" Eriol asked. Syaoran just shook his head. Sakura blush lightly.
"So I see, good luck later on Syaoran. You've taken my place now, Sakura always grabs on my hands when she is nervous, scared or even excited. Thank god I'm still alive after all those few minutes without blood circulation," Tomoyo smile widely knowing Sakura is turning scarlet.
"Whatever," Was Syaoran's reply.
"Hey where's Naoko?" Mei Lin looking around for Naoko.
"Well the man beside her turns out to be Yuki. They went for an ice-cream," Chiharu told the others. They went their separate ways since they have their own plan and so do Sakura and Syaoran. Sakura and Syaoran went for a drink at The Stash.
"Hey Tori-kun, mine is as usual. What do you want Syaoran?" Sakura turns to Syaoran. Somehow he is looking a little serious.
"Black coffee," Tori nodded and wrote down.
"Anything else Sakura-chan," Tori asked smiling brightly.
"Naah…"Sakura shake her head lightly and Tori walked away. Syaoran's cell phone rings. He talks for a few moments. Sakura lean back and survey her surrounding. Then she found that looking at Syaoran is much fun. Sakura sigh, he must be a heartbreaker in Hong Kong from the way he looks he is irresistible. Sakura admire his eyes so much. Big brown eyes of him could make her very nervous. His unruly chestnut hair is kept short. Sakura eyes wander down, he's very fine build. All his muscle is tone making his sex appeal shows. No matter what he wears it always looks good in it, right now he looks like a teenager. With baggy black jeans and muscle t-shirt. Sakura remembers the night they dance; he is just a little taller than her that night, which means he is 3 inch taller. Sakura doesn't even want to experience to be shorter than him. It can be really worse case scenario.
"I'm sorry Sakura I need to go down to your father's office. I'll send you to meet the girls after this okay?" Sayoran hanged up the phone and tell her he is occupied later.
"Its okay," Sakura just looks at him. They finished their drinks and when out to get his car. Sakura is silent all the way to meet the girls. When they arrived Syaoran didn't unlock the doors.
"Look Sakura, don't go back first okay? I'll send you home," Syaoran turns to her. Sakura just nod and turns to step down. Syaoran hold her shoulder.
"Daijoubou?" Sakura was a little confuse of his behaviour.
"Wait for me okay?" This time Sakura smile and kiss him on the cheeks. He smirks and unlock the doors.
"Ja Ne Syaoran," Sakura close the door and walk away. Syaoran drove off.
Sakura and the Sisters…
"So everything is settle isn't it?" Sheifa asked her other sister. They all agreed.
"Thanks you guys, I'm sorry its such a short notice it must be really mess up with the company, if not Otou-san wouldn't do this," Sakura apologize.
"Don't say that Sakura it isn't your fault. Its half ours. We should have told you earlier but Syaoran wants you to graduate first," Feimel told her.
"Did Syaoran buy you the engagement ring? Let us see," Fanren rush to have a look. Sakura blush and hurriedly shake her head.
"No, he didn't," They just smile widely.
"He didn't did he? You are special Sakura we are sure of it,"
"Why?" Sakura wants to know why they think that.
"That is Syaoran's ring," Fuutie told her.
"I know that but what's with it,"
"Sakura, our late father gave it to him when he was 8. At that time our father told him his duty to the family and about marrying you. He treasured the ring so much. We didn't even get the chance to ever wear it or trying it on. He never took it off, he loves it too damn much" Fanren explain seeing Sakura is confused.
"He did once," Fuutie shouted at her sister.
"Oh yeah I forgot, but then if it isn't for mom he wouldn't have took it off. The ring was getting small or he is getting rather grown up so mom asked him to resize the ring. At first he didn't want to. He said he didn't mind wearing it on his pinkie fingers. That was when he is 13. I think mom did ask him to resize it again, but I'm not quiet sure," Fanren tapped her chin trying to remember. The girls laugh.
"Is Syaoran getting fatter or what?" Sheifa asked aloud and they laugh.
"So, who thinks I'm fat?" Suddenly he was leaning on the door frame. 'If he keeps doing that I'm really going to get heart attack by the age of 30' Sakura shook her head smiling. The girls starts to crowd around him tug on his shirt to sit by Sakura.
"I'm going to sent Sakura home," Syaoran pulls Sakura out of the sofa, the girls says their good bye and Sakura feels like she is going to get on really well with them. Syaoran drove her to the penguin park instead of sending her home. He ushered her to a bench and they both sit there facing some small kids playing on the swings and slide.
"I went to you father's office attending on one of our client with Touya since your father is away in London. Everything is settled for the merging. It's this Friday night; our entire client has been informed," Syaoran braced himself with his arm on his knee. Sakura just sits there listening.
"The new hotel in China that is going to be formally open next six month will have its own shopping arcade. A famous jeweller in all Asia is going to put up a branch in our hotel here in Japan and the one that's going to be open soon. So they decide to hold on 10 of our share in our hotel departments. We are going to sign the contract on our engagement night. We decide to put and exception on this case because their record is clean from our security check. They also decide that since we're going to get married they are making a special ring for us. Their very own designer is personally designing it. It seems we didn't have to pick the wedding ring," Syaoran turns his head towards Sakura. He wants to know her reaction.
"That's great," Sakura smile softly.
"How was the planning of the wedding? Is everything done?" Syaoran wants to know about the arrangements.
"Everything is fine, we decide it's going to be held in my family's mansion here in Tomoeda, The ceremony will take place at the local church and the banquet in my mom's back garden. Do you agree? If you prefer we have it at the Hotel I wont mind," Sakura wants to know his opinion.
"No, I'm fine with it, anything else?"
"We're going to choose on a wedding dress a week after the engagement and you and the guys are going on a tuxedo fitting a week before the wedding since its not that hard to search for a tuxedo isn't it?" Syaoran just laugh under his breath, Sakura continued on. "The decorations and invitation card will all be taken care of by the girls. They somehow want it to be a surprise. All you need to do is list down every guest that you want to invite including family and friends. My list will be provided by my mom eventually. Then, the menu. I thought its better for us to decide together. I think that's all we need to do. Everything else is taken care of by my parents and your sisters," Sakura finished explaining and Syaoran just nod.
"Eriol is my best man," He told her.
"That's totally obvious Syaoran," Sakura laugh.
"What about you?"
"Well, Tomoyo is going to be the maid of honour and the other girls is going to be my flower girls. While the guys accompanied them down the aisle. Syaoran stood up and nod his head. Sakura stand by him. They walk back to their car. A small boy about 5 years old almost run her down but she caught him from stumbling.
"Hey dear, be careful okay," Sakura stable the kid and he smile his toothy smile. It made Sakura laughs and the boy hugs Sakura's leg. Sakura awed at his cuteness and knelt down hugging him.
"Thank you Nee- Chan, you are vewy pwetty," the boy kisses her check and blush lightly then he ran back to his friends. 'Even a small kid can tell she is very pretty' Syaoran stare at them, kids loves Sakura. She has a motherly care in her for everyone. Syaoran drove her home. When they reach the front porch Syaoran stopped the engine.
"Syaoran," Sakura try to tell him something,
"Yeah?" Sayoran looks at Sakura. She is nervous and acting awkward.
"Do you… Do you mind…" She still hasn't finished her sentences. Syaoran took her chin up with his finger. Making her look at him.
"Do I mind what Sakura?" Syaoran taunt her with his piercing eyes. Its making her lost the words that was form nicely in her head.
"This Saturday, after our engagement day. My school held a prompt, do you mind going with me?" Sakura buck up and blurt it all out at Syaoran.
"I wouldn't mind at all. Is that it?" Sakura just beam at his answer. Syaoran smirk and unlock the door.
"I'll see you around Syaoran," Sakura boldly touch her nose to his and dash inside. Syaoran touch his nose. Her scent lingers around him. He sighed, a slow smile plaster on his face. It'll be fun indeed to handle Sakura.
Sakura…
(Sakura's POV)
It all goes well, the engagement night is near. The girls are busy hanging around me, chatting away about their boys and we spent time together with silly activities like barging into the kitchen and make a chaos by trying to bake a cake. It was hilarious how cook just waving his pan at us. Naoko is getting into a mild relationship with Yuki. No strings attached that kind of way. I smile thru all the days. It's enjoying. Mei Lin is more into a naughty girl, she flirts when she is around Ren. He is to be treated that way, that guy surely is a playboy. I just can tell from the way he reacts around girls. Mei Lin doesn't seem to mind at all. Rika and Shan look good together like how we girls expected it to be. Shan went charming mode on her and it makes Rika more comfortable to be with him. They are made for each other. Rika is soft motherly type, while Shan is so gentle with her. Never once try to make her feel uneasy or misfit when he brought her to meet his friends.
The night that I snooze off at the club, well… Shan did make his declaration to Rika. Rika told us all about it. It was sweet. Rika said that Shan when all rigid and freeze up like a cat got his tongue. After a good persuasion he blurts it all out in a very swiftly speech that makes Rika giggles. She just plainly said yes. So like Rika to do that, acting calm all the time. Chi is well off with Takashi. He is a good chap and Chi deserves him. They actually deserve each other. Their relationship is weird, sometimes she went all stern on him and he became so cheeky and bubbly and at other times they are such a loving couple and Tak went protective mode on her.
One thing that always makes me smile this past week is my dearest Tomoyo. She still sleeping over since I'm getting married. Aunt Sonomi didn't mind. Eriol is cute, he always make an unpredicted things, like taking Tomoyo to the beach after the movie. He certainly is smitten with Tomoyo. When Tomoyo tell me about him, she has this kind of twinkle in her eyes. I know she is happy.
Me… Syaoran didn't come to meet me or spent time with me. Maybe he is busy with work. Since Touya did dashing around a lot to settle a few contracts. Just 2 days left. Right now the girls are upstairs in my room touching up after a morning of outdoor breakfast at Penguin Park. We are going to search for a dress. I've made my decision to wear a traditional Chinese Cheung-Sam. I didn't tell the girls yet. I think it's a brilliant idea. The girls hustle themselves downstairs.
"Ready?" I asked cheerfully looking at their antics. Sometimes they can be so childish and out of character. I didn't mind it a lot since we are friends and friends share so many things together and behaviour is one of it.
"Hai…" All of them cheered. I sighed; another day at mom's modelling agency and aunt Sonomi seamstress. My mom combines her studio and Aunt Sonomi seamstress shop. It's very impressing. It's a two story building decorated like an 18th Century English Mansion. I drove there with the girls giggling and chatting. What'll I do without them in China? At least Mei Lin will be there. I didn't decide yet whether to work with the company, continue studying or just stay at home.
"Let's go girls…" Mei Lin jumped off followed by the others.
"Good evening girls, nice to see all of you here. It has been quite a while," Suomi one of the workers greets us at the hallway of the studio. It always makes me breathless looking at my mother's and aunt's accomplishment.
"You're here too Sakura, I didn't notice you. So what's the occasion?" She ushered us to the waiting room.
"Well, Soumi- Chan. Sakura here is getting engage in two days and married in another two weeks after. I've given mom the design for her wedding dress. Has she worked on it?" Tomoyo asked Soumi. She smiles.
"I don't think she's working in any other design Tomoyo,"
"Good, now we girls are searching for a dress to attend Sakura's engagement and another for our Prompt," Soumi and the girls chatted excitedly. Tomoyo link her arms around mine. I smile at her.
"I've decided what to wear, just need to pick the right one," I told her brightly.
"That's great Sakura, what did you decide on?" Tomoyo try to persuade me into telling her.
"You just have to wait," I giggled looking at Tomoyo pouting. We entered a big showroom with a mirrored wall at the side of the room; there is a round platform in front of it and a row of changing room on the other side. Once, Tomoyo and I always amused ourselves here. Mom and aunt Sonomi is out since I didn't see their car. Here at 'Grace Seamstress and Modelling' they treat customers exclusively; the studio is catered for the wealthy socialite. Most of them are our companies' client and friends. All of us are seated at a comfortable sofa facing the mirrored wall. A worker served us tea and cakes.
"First tell me, for the engagement what kind of dress do you want?" the girls told Soumi their preferences and some other workers pushed in a few moveable dress shelves into the showroom for our display according to the type of dress.
"Okay that's settled, we will bring in the other dress for the prompt later," The girls take their time picking their dress. Tomoyo is working on her sketch book. Another design I think. I watch the girls.
"Sakura, aren't you going to choose any?" Soumi sits beside me. I shake my head.
"My type of dress isn't here Soumi," Soumi was startled.
"Why didn't you tell me, let me get you another shelves. So what kind of dress my dear?"
"Cheung-Sam," I simply answered. Soumi just smile and call for her assistant and instruct her to bring in the shelves. A few minutes later a single shelf full of Cheung-Sam was brought in. I beam and walked to it. After a few minutes of going thru the entire dress one particular dress caught my attention. I held it up. A beautiful Chinese Silk in dark green with gold threads lining all around the hemming. It has baby short sleeve. On the left side it slash to up to my lower thigh. It looks dashing and highly sophisticated. It will make me looks older. I decide to try it on. The girls is too busy too notice. I step onto the platform to have a look at myself. My hair was tied into a messy bun since I'm too lazy this morning to do anything with it.
"Oh my God… Sakura, I'm damn speechless babe," Mei Lin stare at me eyes all wide and gaps.
"Oh My,…" Tomoyo have a dreamy look on her face. I laugh while the others still gawks at me.
"Damn girl, I give the credit to you. Not even me or the sisters wore it as beautiful as you do right now. I always feel fat when I wore it. Not my kind of thing actually," Mei Lin walks around me.
"You look gorgeous Sakura," Rika cheered Naoko and Chiharu agrees with her.
"The Cheung-Sam was a creation by one of the best designer in China a decade ago. The emperor especially ordered it to be given to his empress but she died before it's completed. Then it was sold. And now it ended up in our possession. It's not for sale, I'm sorry Sakura but I know for sure your mom would give it to you as a present if you want," Soumi tells us.
"No, I just want to wear it once. Are you girls sure its okay? Don't you think I'm fat?" I somehow feel a little too sexy. The dress clings to my body.
"You're soo… far from fat my dear, slim actually and perfect body," Soumi speaks her thoughts.
"What should I do with my hair?" I ask them.
"Since you decide to be a Chinese girl for that night with that dress why don't you look exactly like one? Put your hair up into a bun with a chopstick that will complete the appearance, believe me," Mei Lin assured me. I agree, it surely will be perfect with my dress. It's all settled then.
(Mild lemon alert…)
That night I was lying in my bed resting after a gruelling day with the girls. Tomoyo stay at the studio after we decide to leave. She said she is working on a design and going to wait for her mom and my mom to be back to propose it to them and not sleeping over tonight. So we all went for a Popsicle at the park and walk around chatting the day away. Suddenly my cell phone rings.
"Hello," I answered.
"Hey Sakura," Somehow he has a way making me feel gauche.
"Hey Syaoran, where are you?"
"Close to you," I was stunned, what did he mean by that?.
"Come on don't tease me," I whine.
"Really…if you don't believe me come down to the back garden," I rushed down the stairs to the back sliding door that leads straight to the garden still holding on the phone.
"Well, where are you? I'm in the garden now," I asked him.
"Walk to the gazebo, and you'll see," I do as he ask.
"Stand straight and look up," He told me, and I look up then my heart soars in pleasure looking at the full moon and so many stars. The phone forgotten, I close my eyes feeling the cool night air blowing my thin nightgown. It is so peaceful here. A pair of hands came around my waist. At first I was startled but I knew it was him.
"Didn't I tell you I'm close by?" I just nod enjoying his warmth.
"Why are you here?" I'm still in his arm looking up at the full moon.
"We, that are your father, brother, Eriol and me is discussing a few things. Since Eriol went to the Daidouji residence I make an assumption that Tomoyo is not here tonight and decide to meet you," he whispered at my ears. I can't seem to think. He always did this to me. I just mumble my agreement.
"You shouldn't have walk around in this thin dress Sakura," His head is so near to my neck. It feels so familiar but I can't put a finger on it.
"Why?" a stupid question to asked but it was too late that I realised it. It came out as a whimper.
"Why?" He asked back in cynicism. "Because of this, this would happen" he kissed my neck. It was wonderful. He moves my hair and kissed it gently. I forgot to breathe. His hand tightens on my waist. He sucked gently on it and one of his hands crept up to my left breast. I inhaled a sharp breath and a surge of pleasure entered me, I know this is inappropriate but I don't want him to stop. His wide palm gently cupping my breast. Oh my I gasped…my mind went all blank. I'm being savoured by my fiancée in the middle of a garden and under a full bright moon. How bizarre can it go then this? I sigh. He is so gentle with me. He kneads my breast slowly. I almost stumble to the ground if not for his strong hold on my waist. He really makes me fall for him.
"You are so tender and delicate Sakura, I wonder if you could keep up with me," It was kind of a surprise that he said that. He turns me swiftly and kisses my lips thoroughly. I felt his tongue on my lips probing and persuading me to open my mouth. I relent and once he's in I respond to his kiss shyly. It feels like a very long time after that he pulls away.
"Sweet Sakura, sleep tight," He put a chaste kiss on my lips and walks away while I stand there breathless from the occurrence. I put my fingers on my bruise lips. Syaoran, I just couldn't figure him out. I take a deep breath and look up at the night sky, at that exact moment I saw a shooting star. In an instance I make a wish 'I wish upon this star that at the end of all this mess I will end up with my true love no matter what happens'. That night; I ended staying up feeling restless after what I went through. This is Passion. It'll be the cause of my down fall. I know from now on it'll haunt me. This feeling of desire is creeping all over me. I hate myself for feeling this way towards Syaoran even though I knew he felt the opposite towards me. My last thought that night before I doze off was, why is he doing this to me?
Syaoran…
(Syaoran's POV)
Why the hell did I do that, I just can't stop cursing myself from the moment I left Sakura in the middle of the garden. Something snaps in me when I look at her face, her expression. She looks as if she was lost, confused even hurt. I can't help myself but tossing around in my big bed. How the hell did I get into this? Meddling myself with sweet innocent angels like her. That kind of girls has never been my choice. Women with expertise and passion are more to it. Women that know the rules of passion not love. Not a girl.
I never thought she would be standing there so lovely bathing in the moonlight; her perfect body distinguish by the thinness of her night dress. Which men could restrain himself in losing in her body? My control disappeared when she looks up and adores the moon. With her long, thick, auburn hair, swaying at her hips. I decided to comply a little to my desires. I just want to hold her, to feel her body against mine like when we were dancing the other night. It went well but her question… such naïve question. Why? Why can't she walk around in that night dress? I gave her a taste of passion. I knew it was her first from the way she responded to my touch. The smell of her hair, her scent at her neck. The smoothness of her skin makes me boldly touch her more, forgetting who she really is, a mere girl. Her breast fit my palm perfectly. I try to stop myself, and kissed her a thorough kiss satisfying the hunger that has been raised in me. I never knew a kissed could be that sweet. Then I left, if I didn't god knows what will happen to her. I swear I should be more careful next time. I can't mess up her life like this. Huh…shrew all this guilty feelings as if I ever cared for it before. But I knew this time I'm going for a real bumpy ride.
The dreadful memory came back to me; Shu Yin was the first girl that I ever love. It feels like it was just yesterday it happens but the truth is it was 5 years ago. I remember her laughter, her smile and her languid walk. She is very special. I was just 16 back then and so is Shu Yin. We were inseparable. Shu Yin was a beautiful mix-Chinese girl. Her family was one of my dad's partners The Fukuyama's. Her father was Japanese. That's what gave her the rare looks. I sit up and shake my head furiously. I just can't keep playing it in my head. The guilt that I felt is still burden on me. Since that day, I've totally change. I no longer turn for love no matter its family or not. The situation worsens when my father died almost instantly. Gosh I really need to stop and continued on with my life. I'm always prepared for anything, but I could clearly see I'm in for major complications with Sakura in tow.
The Engagement Night.
Sakura was in her father's car; James is driving her to their hotel. Her parents have gone there earlier with Touya. Her friends decide to go on their own and so, Sakura is left with Tomoyo. They're both exceptionally quiet tonight.
"Tomoyo," Sakura called softly.
"What is it Sakura?" Tomoyo reach for her hand.
"Thank you for being there for me all the time, I love you Tomoyo. You're like a sister to me," Sakura smile gently. She is feeling a bit emotional. Tomoyo squeezed her hand.
"No need for that Sakura, I love you too and I don't want you to worry," They hugged each other knowing things aren't going to be the same after this.
Syaoran is fidgeting in his seat. Worrying if Sakura is ever going to show up. The guests have filled the grand hall. Eriol smirk at him he just grunts. Then he saw her, walking in towards him. He was astonished. How could this be? She damn looks like Shu Yin a lot. Only Shu Yin is competent to signify that beauty of such precious Cheung-Sam. Sakura's Cheung-Sam is perfect. After all, it's in his favourite colour and he very well recognises it since it was once in an auction room for bidding. Shu Yin adores that dress and he wanted to buy it for her but they lost to one of the Japanese company. Now he knew where that dress ended. The dress clings to her like a second skin. It shows all her perfect curves. The slash reaches almost to her thigh. Hell that is a lot of creamy skin for all to see. Why the hell is she wearing this? Syaoran growls when he saw some men gawking at her. 'How dare they look at My Sakura?' His scowl disappeared when Sakura bow and smile up at him.
The procedure begins, their engagement is announced and the date of their wedding is fixed. The companies have formally merged and all the contracts have been signed. After all the business is done the feast begins. Syaoran stepped out to get fresh air.
"Sakura, you're looking divine tonight. That Cheung-Sam fit you perfectly and gave the effect of a Chinese girl which you're going to become one," Eriol teased her and Sakura laughs. Eriol always make her smile. She has just finish talking to the sisters they also compliments her dress but Sheifa is particularly looking a little worried.
"Thanks Eriol, but have you seen Syaoran?" Sakura looks around trying to catch a glimpse of him.
"Oh, I think his out taking a fresh air. Why don't you go and join him?" Eriol pointed towards the balcony.
"I'll do just that, thanks Eriol. Bye Tomoyo," Tomoyo waved at her. Sakura makes her way towards her fiancée.
"It's a nice weather to be out isn't it?" Sakura stood a little away beside him. Syaoran just nod. 'Oh no…his on his moods again' Sakura sigh a little knowing tonight wont be the best of night.
"What do you think of my dress? It somehow feels right to wear this tonight," Sakura tries to make a conversation.
"Why?" His voice was rough. Sakura was taken aback.
"I don't know, maybe because it shows that I'm freely acclimatizing myself to your culture and you family," Sakura softly replied. Syaoran turns to her. His features hard and grim.
"Listen Kinomoto, you are who you are. You don't need to change for me or the family, I don't need or even want that," His voice was rough Sakura bit her lip. "One more thing, I don't want you ever to wear that thing again, you understand me?" He asked. Sakura just afford to nod weakly. She didn't expect him to act this way.
"Now, you're my fiancée. The Li always have their pride and dignity," With that he left. He did that a lot lately. Leaving her all alone to figure it all out herself. A lone tear slip down her cheeks. 'Oh god please, I've been doing this crying thing a lot. Please gave me strength and courage' Sakura prayed. After calming herself down she searches for Tomoyo.
"Hey Tomoyo, I'm going home okay," She touch Tomoyo's arm who is talking with Eriol.
"Do you want me to go with you?" She asked in concern. Sakura fake a bright smile.
"No, its okay and you don't have to sleep over tonight okay. I'm fine. After all it's our prompt night tomorrow. So see you later," Sakura kissed Tomoyo's cheek and left. Then suddenly someone called her and she turns.
"Tori-kun what are doing here?" He laughs.
"Well Sakura-Chan, my father has his own company but the truth is the café is mine," He just smiles thru his explanation.
"Really, I didn't know." Sakura was shocked.
"I just want to say, congratulation on your impeding wedding, come by tomorrow and I gave you a special treat,"
"Thanks Tori-Kun, I'll see you in the café tomorrow," She waved goodbye.
Back at her room Sakura peel off the dress and hangs it carefully in her wardrobe. She stands in front of her long mirror that's when it started. She sobs and throws herself onto the bed. It was heart breaking the way she cried.
'I'm just not perfect enough for him, why am I doing this to myself?' Sakura asked herself. 'Tears are not a good sign in a relationship, how am I going to survive living with him? Maybe the idea of a year marriage is the answer. I'm just not made for him,' Sakura cry herself to sleep that night and exhaust herself thinking for her future deciding what's needed.
Sakura waked up with a headache, she showers puts on a hooded sweater and sweat pants then rush for a morning jogs around the Penguin park, she seat there a while watching the kids playing then went home to get her car. She drove off to the mall. Sakura walks slowly to the stash and take her usual spot.
"Morning Sakura-Chan," Tori was there to greet her. Sakura smile her usual smile.
"Ohayo Tori-Kun, usual drinks but today I want breakfast,"
"Don't worry it on me today," Tori remind her.
"Oh… thanks a lot Tori-Kun, I wont mind what breakfast it is as long as I'm going to be full then it okay," She cheered. Tori laugh and went back to the kitchen. A few minutes later Tori brings out her vanilla milk shake with pancakes and hash brown. Tori seat with her chatting along while she eats her breakfast.
"Thanks Tori-kun this is wonderful. The truth is I'm wondering about this café and you," Tori just laugh.
"This café is mine; I just feel that I wanted something that really came out of my hard work. At first there is only a few helpers but after a year everything goes very well as you're seeing right now. I remember you're my first customer the day I open up. Since then you always came back frequently. I became accustomed with you hanging around here with the girls," Sakura smile.
"I know, we love hanging around here too. But aren't you taking over you dad's place?"
"Yeah, soon. That's why I attend your engagement last night. But the café will still be open but run by my assistant." Sakura nodded.
"I've always have a crushed on you Sakura," Tori bowed his head.
"I eventually guess it but I didn't take it to heart when the girl teased me, I'm so sorry Tori-Kun," Sakura apologise and feels quite bad.
"No, its okay Sakura. But I want you to know no matter what happens I'm here if you need me okay? From now on you're the sister I've never have," Sakura smile brightly. She hugs him.
"Thanks Tori, you're the best. I hope we could be friends forever," Sakura smile happily and Tori agreed.
"I better get going. There some task that need to be done, Ja Ne Tori, see you later and thanks for the treat," With that she runs to her car and when back home. Ready to go for her facial and hair do later that afternoon. By 8 o'clock she was all ready to go. She settles on with going alone. Thank god today was Marie's day off or else she will be asking questions. Her dress was sent by her mother's worker that afternoon. It was dark gold in colour. It was a one piece dress much alike to a wedding dress. It makes her look like a princess. She went down nervously knowing Touya was down there.
"Well, the princess has decided to come down is it?" Sakura just stuck out her tongue and step down carefully.
"What? Since when you become all proper and didn't stomp down the stairs like a kaijuu?" Touya teased her non-stop.
"Onii-Chan…Sakura no Kaijuu…" She shouted.
"That's more like it. Now hurry Sakura mom wants to see you," Her mother and father kissed her good bye. Touya remains by her side and send her to the car.
"Why are you going alone?" Touya suddenly asked her.
"I didn't want my partner to suffer the consequences, and since when you feel that I need to have a partner?" Sakura tease Touya.
"Since you're engage," Touya sarcastically reply and Sakura giggles.
"Ow… come on Onii-Chan, cant a girl be single for a night before she gets married?" Sakura pouts at him. He smirks.
"Whatever Sakura, now go or else you'll be late," She kissed him good bye and went off with James.
Sakura saw her friends and walks to them; the table is seated for ten people. Tomoyo is with Eriol, Chi with Tak, Naoko with Yukito and Rika with Shan. There will be a seat empty beside her but Sakura didn't mind that.
"Hey you guys," Sakura take her seat. They greet her.
"Hey Sakura, are you alone?" Chiharu asked.
"Yeah, of course. As you all know I don't want who ever he is to be my partner to get hurt by the end of the night, since Touya has never been fond of boys getting near me, and bringing him is not an option too," Sakura laughs at her own explanation try to cover her tenseness.
"Now, I thought that has end now. Where is Syaoran? Isn't he supposed to be with you?" Naoko turns to asked.
"Come on you guys, leave her alone she just wants to feel single for the last time," Tomoyo helped her. The girls just shrugged their shoulders and Sakura turn to Tomoyo.
"Thanks,"
"No problem," She smile, the night went on. Sakura was getting bored when they music starts and they finished their meal. Its time to dance. She was left alone by the table.
"Aren't you supposed to wait for your partner to come and pick you up at home to bring you here?" all of a sudden Syaoran appeared by her side and took his seat. Sakura smile weakly at him.
"I didn't expect you to be here Li," Sakura speak up gently. Syaoran grimaced at hearing his last name. He knew it was a wrong move to call her last name yesterday.
"I did agree didn't I?" Syaoran asked. Sakura just smile and leaned back. She turns he view to her friends who is dancing.
"Do you want to dance Sakura?" Syaoran try to ask her to step up to the dance floor. Sakura shake her head.
"No, not tonight," Sakura plainly told him. 'Sakura is acting all weird' Syaoran breathe deeply.
"Look Sakura, about last night…" Sakura cut his word.
"I shouldn't have done it, it was wrong of me. Don't worry just forget it. It was nothing" Sakura ended it.
"By the way, I forget to tell you that I agree to my father and the elders' suggestion, so the papers should be ready by another three weeks and we will sign it after the wedding. It'll be easy if it's ready earlier," Sakura speaks up unwaveringly that it makes Syaoran stunned.
"Are you certain Sakura?" Syaoran leans back and eyed her. She unflinchingly returns his stares.
"Absolutely Li, no need to worry. It'll be a year in no time," Sakura languorously speak up as if she didn't care at all. Syaoran tighten his jaw. He didn't expect this. Sakura was ready to leave.
"I'll send you home," Syaoran is insisting.
"I came alone, and I'll go home alone," Sakura try to walks away from him but he grabs her wrist.
"Called your driver and tell him I'm sending you home," Syaoran instruct her gravely. Sakura comply and walked to his car. During the drive home Sakura was silent but she spoke la few minutes latter.
"You just can't stop bossing me around can you?" Sakura try to controls her anger.
"Listen Sakura, you're soon to be my wife and do act like one. A wife need permission from her husband understand?" Syaoran speak coldly.
"But I exactly remember that you told me you won't hold me from living my life and now, you decide that you enjoy controlling my every move. Is it an amusement to you?" Sakura snap back. Syaoran stop the car at the front porch.
"You just have to know your place, Sakura," Syaoran slowly speak up and sigh. Sakura bit her lower lip 'I do know my place Syaoran, and it is not any where near your heart,' Sakura grab her purse and step out.
"Nite Li," She said before she fully steps out.
"Its Syaoran Sakura, or have you forgotten my name?" Syaoran said bitterly. 'Never in my entire life Syaoran,' Sakura inhaled.
"No, but I didn't really know who Syaoran is," She closed the door car and walks up to the entrance. Syaoran smack his steering wheel in frustration.
A/N: So Sorry I updated so damn late, but I'm really busy with my exam, hah..another two weeks for it to end. Thanks to all reviewers. I know its kind of lame making stories about arrange marriage but I promise to make it fun. Wednesday is additional maths paper. Need to work hard wish me luck you guys….Ja ne… Aisheteru…Please R&R.