Heaven by your Side

By brokenshadow23

Summary:

Eriol Hiiragizawa was the protector Tomoyo could ask for. For despite the number of times she pushed him away, he remained on her side and held her tight. But what if an inevitable thing comes their way? How can he protect her fragile heart?

Disclaimer: Cardcaptor Sakura belongs to Clamp.

Author's Notes:

Hi! It's been a while ne? Well, I haven't updated that fast since I was looking for a beta-reader. Hehe.. :D but now everything is settled so I will not update the way I have been doing these past few months.

Anyway, I wanted to thank Bubblewing-luvs-anime or Bubbles for all the revisions she had made for this chapter. This chapter would be like a disaster if it weren't for her. Hehe.. ^-^

All my other notes are at the end of this chapter so don't forget to read them ne?

Enjoy guys. ^-^

"Love is a matter for each individual heart. No one can tell you, no one can warn you, no one can prepare you what it is like."
-Honoria Cynster from the book All About Love by Stephanie Laurens

Last Chapter:

"So there is a possibility that Tomoyo-chan is in England?" Sakura asked, having hope in her voice.

Syaoran nodded. "And if she really is, Eriol-kun will take care of her so we really don't have to worry."

With that assuring voice, Sakura gave a small smile. Syaoran led the way towards the building, glad that in a way he made his girlfriend feel at ease.

But little did he know that saying Tomoyo's possible location was a wrong move. When they were already far away from the garden, one guy, who hold's black hair and grey eyes appeared from one of the trees and watched them walked away.

'So Daidouji-san might be in England ne?' he thought. His lips curved and formed an evil smile. 'Well then, I should tell this to master as soon as possible.'

Chapter Five:

Her warrior

Sitting on the bench with a sandwich at hand, Eriol enjoyed himself with the scenery before him. The leaves from the trees were swaying with the wind, giving him and his friends a light feeling. However, everything was stopped when the voice of Julict rose.

"I told you, I don't need a company," she said as she glared at the blond guy beside her.

"Yes, you do." Alexander told her like he hadn't even heard what she said. "I want to make sure that you will not do anything reckless."

Julict frowned. Standing up, she muttered, "I won't. I'm heading to the library so how could I possibly get hurt?"

Alexander pocketed his hands in his pants. One of his eyebrows rose. "Oh, really? Do you want me to narrate what happened when you last told me that?"

"It's been a year," she reminded him, voice softening in embarrassment. Her cheeks heated as she recalled the time she lied to him that she would be at the library then after a while got injured because she tried to climb a tree.

"I know. But whatever your reason is, my mind won't change." he said, smiling at her hopeless expression. "Also, who knows how many guys would take advantage if they would see you alone?"

Sighing already in defeat, Julict was about to turn around when Eriol's voice came.

"You know, I think Julict would be fine."

Julict gazed at the blue haired guy and noted the smile on his lips. She smiled back at him, trusting him to save her from Alexander.

"But—" Alexander tried to reason out, but Eriol didn't let him. He had spoken once again, with his tone full of wit and sarcasm.

"Also, I don't see anything wrong if she would agree when someone would ask her out," he said, grinning. "Why are you so troubled with that anyway?"

His question shocked both persons in front of him. Their cheeks instantly flushed as they turned their heads in opposite directions.

"I…" Alexander tried to explain, but found that words were stuck on his throat.

With that, Eriol, Mitch and Louie laughed. Those three knew that there was something special between him and Julict, but the two hardly noticed it since Alexander was still acting like a child and Julict always thought that she wasn't his type.

In the middle of the laughter, Mitch saw a raven haired girl walking to her usual spot. She leaned on Louie's shoulder and whispered, "Just a moment."

She then stood up and walked to meet the said girl, "Good afternoon, Madison."

Tomoyo looked at the girl and smiled, "Good afternoon to you to, Mitch. Enjoying your lunch?"

Nodding, she smiled back, "Well, I was just about to start. How about you?"

"I have just come down from the professor's area because I took special exam."

"Oh." Mitch smiled wider as a great idea came to her mind, "then why don't you join us? I'm sure it'll be a lot of fun!"

Tomoyo's breathing slowed. Hearing that, she glimpsed at the next bench and saw four teens enjoying themselves. Eriol, who wore his usual cool smile, was teasing the blond guy whom she had known to be Alexander. Then on Eriol's right was Louie, who was going along with the ride. Lastly, she noted Julict who was trying her best not to blush more.

"I… I guess, you guys are fine on your own." She said, politely declining her offer. Though she was glad to be asked, she wasn't yet ready to make friends with others especially those that would make her close to Eriol. "I don't want to trouble you at all."

"No, you don't and you will never be." Mitch assured as she came closer to her. "So come on!"

Without any warnings, Tomoyo felt a soft hand grabbed hers and was dragged to the others'. She tried her best to break free, but before she could they had already halted in front of the others.

"Madison!" Julict said, then instantly moved near her. "It's nice to have you here."

"Ms. Taylor, it's a pleasure to see you," Louie greeted, smiling.

Tomoyo returned the greeting with a smile. She met Eriol's gaze, seeing the wonder on his eyes.

"Well, I guess there is really no need for introductions," Mitch told the others. "Madison will be having her lunch with us today. You don't mind that, do you?"

"Of course, not!" Alexander exclaimed as he threw Eriol an evil smile, "There is a principle called the more the merrier right?"

The break went on. The group, together with Tomoyo, had lots of fun. They chatted about various of things, but mostly about Julict's and Alexander's high school pranks. Tomoyo gladly listened and gave small comments. Eriol surprisingly went silent, still wondering how Mitch had her near him easily.

After a few minutes, the bell rang.

"It's time." Louie said, seeing students heading back on the entrance.

Sighing, Julict stared at Tomoyo. "The time flew fast. I thought we could have more time to talk about things."

"It's because we were enjoying ourselves so much, we didn't notice the time'." Mitch said, giving her hand to Louie to help her up. She fixed her uniform and saw Alexander did the same to Julict.

"But this would happen again, right Madiison?" Julict beamed at the girl.

Lifting up her gaze, Tomoyo saw the hope in her eyes. She wasn't sure what to answer at first, but then, "Let's see."

xoxoxoxoxox

-Tomoyo's POV-

Silence.

That is actually one of the things I truly appreciate in this world. Unfortunately, no one would allow it to come to me. Even though many times I was alone, my mind, my thoughts were simply being occupied—occupied by those things that caused me deep pain.

Sitting in the old cafeteria near the university, I tried to organize my thoughts, but to no avail. Whatever I did, my mind unconsciously drifted back to my dream last night. It was the same dream I had when I first stepped in England, but the feelings were stronger that was like suffocating my soul.

I sighed as I slowly closed my eyes. 'Why is everything coming to my nerves again?'

Feeling the slight chill touch my skin, I opened my eyes to see the blue sky turning to gray. The sun was slowly being covered up, and I knew that in a few moments from now, the rain would fall. With that, I finished my coffee and decided to go home. After all, there was no use for me to be here. I have to get back to my own sanctuary

I wasn't yet far from the cafeteria when tiny drops of water fell from the heaven. With that, I started to run and—

"Oh!" I muttered, as I felt a large body bumped into me. Wincing, I lifted up my gaze, only to see stone-gray eyes looking down at me. He held a dark expression on his face, instantly telling me that I was in danger.

"Tomoyo."

I gasped, finally believing the figure I was seeing that moment. At first, I thought it was an illusion, but I couldn't be mistaken. That deep purr belonged to someone I knew well. Organizing my wits, I stood straight and tried my best not to shiver. "Ryoji."

Smirking, he stepped forward. I tried to step back, but my foot didn't follow.

"Well, well, well. It seems that you still know my name, my dear." He traced a finger on my jaw, and saw instantly the fear in my eyes.

I breathed hard once again. 'How did he find me?'

"I didn't really imagine that you can simply escape Japan," he continued.

Gulping, I had set aside the question of him being here. I glared at him. "What are you doing here?"

Ryoji raised an eyebrow up. "Isn't obvious?" he asked. "I am looking for you. After all, we haven't yet ended out relationship, have we?"

That was when another blow of emotion hit me. Flashbacks filled my head, and then I felt few tears rose to my eyes. He was right at one point. After I had heard that our relationship was a game, I only remained silent. No words, no declaration.

"You're wrong." I told him, trying my best to look into his eyes. "Everything already ended before."

With that, I bowed my head and tried to walk away. Though I knew he wouldn't give up easily. He forcefully grabbed my arm, making me cry out in pain.

"You bitch!" he roared, "How the hell can you say that to me?!"

"I-Itai!" I yelped as he tightened his hold on my arm. Shutting my eyes, I tried to minimize the physical pain he was putting on. "Get off me!"

He didn't. He didn't even hear what I had said. "Do you think you can simply throw me off?! Well then, you are asking for this." With that, he pulled me into him. He threatened to kiss me, but before he did a new force entered.

Someone had placed a punch on his face, releasing Ryoji's grasp on me. Everything went to fast. At one moment I was helpless, and now I was behind the blue haired guy I didn't expect to see. 'He protectively pushed me behind his back while eyeing Ryoji, who was on the ground, dangerously.'

"If you don't want to suffer more, stay away from Tomoyo."

xoxoxoxoxox

It was already late afternoon. The rain continued to fall hard, not giving a hint to stop.

Eriol sighed as he closed the door and locked it. He turned back, seeing the paddles of water he and Tomoyo caused when they had arrived. After removing his shoes and socks, he rose and went back to the living room.

He set his eyes on the couch and saw her. Tomoyo was curled into a ball and was shivering around a thick white blanket. Her hair was still wet and carelessly down at her sides. Her big amethyst eyes were now red, due to crying for who knows how long.

He sighed once again. Not saying anything, he loosened his black school tie and placed it on his blazer on the small table. Then he joined her on the couch, trying to help her regain herself.

Looking at her in a deep concern, he cursed himself for not being able to act that fast. He had seen her not in her proper self that morning, but he was unable to act—not until he decided to cut his afternoon class and followed her.

'If I had only known that this would happen,' he told himself, anger slightly building up. 'I should not have her out of my sight. If I had been early, she wouldn't be suffering like this now.'

On the other hand, Tomoyo wasn't conscious of the presence beside her. Her eyes were set to nowhere as they continued to let hot tears flow. She couldn't understand why, but she was so confused and afraid. Merely seeing Eriol, who unconsciously reminded her of Japan, had been bad enough for her and now, here was Ryoji. Crying harder, she buried her face in her arms.

But then, a warm hand touched her fingers.

With that she looked up, meeting a pair of intense sapphire orbs. For an unknown reason, she saw his lips curved up to a comforting smile. In a few seconds, just like what she saw on her dream, his deep voice said,

"I am here…"

And Tomoyo surrendered. She leaned on his chest then wrapped her arms around his neck. She needed a friend now—she badly needed him. Burying her face deeper on him, she ignored the slight wetness on his blue sleeve that was caused by the rain earlier.

Eriol wasn't surprised with her actions. He looked down at her, hearing her sobs getting louder. In a second, he didn't hesitate. His strong arms pulled her closer to him. He let her cry as he soothed her back.

Few minutes of crying had passed when Tomoyo stopped. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Eriol saw her eyes peacefully closed. Softening his look, he whispered, "I will never leave you alone now. Oyasumi, Tomoyo."

xoxoxoxoxox

"H-help. H-help. H-help."

Eriol groaned as he heard a soft cry. Opening his eyes, he fixed it on the girl on his arms. She was still sleeping, but her face was filled with terror. There was a great fear in her, and it became more evident for she was starting to shiver again.

"H-help. H-help. H-help." She continued to say.

"Tomoyo-chan," He called out, trying to wake her up. But when he touched her arm, he felt burned with the hot temperature travelling on her. Eriol studied her then lifted one of his hands to her forehead.

'She had a fever,' he muttered, immediately pondering on what to do. Tomoyo was now breathing hard, and her nightmare wasn't doing any better.

Scanning his eyes around the area, he finally saw her room. Eriol slipped away from her for a second then took her again. Lifting her up, he carried her to her room. That was when he felt that she still has her wet school uniform on—triggering the fever more.

He laid her gently on the bed, looking at her full of concern. 'I have to ask someone for help.'

xoxoxoxoxox

Feeling the warmth of the sun touch her face, Tomoyo whimpered as she slowly opened her amethyst eyes. Her first sight was the sky blue ceiling—giving her a hint that she was already on her room. She blinked twice, and everything went back to her mind.

The cafeteria. The rain. Ryoji.

Before she could even burst emotions once again, Tomoyo felt the same hand clutched on hers. Moving her head on its direction, her eyes widened as she saw his presence. He was sitting the floor, his head on the small portion of the bed. His dark hair was disheveled. His eyes were closed, but she could easily tell that he had just started for an hour or two.

Sighing, Tomoyo stared at him for a few more seconds. "Eriol-kun."

Since he was a light-sleeper, Eriol heard his name being called. He opened his eyes, seeing his hand still holding one pale hand. Looking up, he met her gaze. "It seems that you have finally awaken, Tomoyo-chan."

With a nod, she gave him a small smile. Her body was still weak, aching to be exact. "What are you doing here?"

"You had a fever last night," Eriol explained, pushing his glasses in place. His hand left hers, but he never got to see the slight disappointment on her eyes. "Are you feeling well now?"

Tomoyo nodded again. "Thank you."

"Oh, if you are wondering, I wasn't the one who changed your clothes." Eriol said, eyeing at the large pink shirt she was wearing. "I asked Nakuru to be here last night because if I would let you still on your soaked clothes, your temperature would not really be going down."

"I see…" She said in a low voice. "What's the time, anyway?"

Looking at his wristwatch, Eriol said, "Ten o'clock. If you are thinking about school, don't worry about it. A day off wouldn't hurt. Also, I have no plans to go and leave you since you are still weak."

Tomoyo stared at him, not surprised that he had read her mind. 'He is a good mind reader after all.'

"Do you want anything for breakfast?" He asked, rising from his seat.

She didn't answer at first. She just sat up, tried to get up herself, but her knees were still weak.

"Let me help you." Eriol said, his hand travelling on hers. He took her for support and guided her towards the kitchen. He pulled out a chair; let her rest while he started cooking.

Easing her shoulders, Tomoyo glanced at Eriol. She was deeply thankful to him, for if he didn't come she couldn't imagine where she'd be that moment. She looked on the living room, seeing a travelling bag on the table.

"Ne, is that bag yours?" She asked eyes still on the bag. "I don't remember seeing it yesterday."

"It's my clothes. Nakuru brought it last night."

It took her for a few minutes to realize what that means. She looked at him, "and why does she have to bring bunch of clothes for you?"

Eriol had expected it. Sighing, he turned to her, seeing the seriousness on her face. "I just thought that you need some company. I—"

"No, I don't." Tomoyo said, standing up. Yes, she was thankful to be his rescue, but if this was his way of going through her life, she wouldn't allow it.

"But—"

"I can do fine my own, you know. Well, I appreciate that you are here because I had a fever last night. But really, I can do on my own now." She stared at him shaking. "See? I can already—" She was about to take a step, but her knees felt weaker.

"Come on, Tomoyo-chan." Eriol told her in a firm tone. "There's no use of arguing."

Tomoyo didn't listen. Her expression was set, telling him that she wouldn't allow what he wanted. "Eriol-kun, I can manage on my own!"

"oh really?" he asked her, tone already rising. He wasn't able to control it, for after he has been worried deeply yesterday, he couldn't believe that Tomoyo would still be able to say those things. "Don't you remember how you had cried for help when that guy tried to harass you?!"

She kept silent. Once again, tears filled her eyes as the scene fully registered on her mind. She had now been discovered. After all the hard time of getting away from Japan, she had easily been spotted.

Seeing the sadness in her eyes, Eriol felt guilty of saying those things to her. He didn't mean to make her remember, but it slipped on him. He bit his lip as his hands slowly held her shivering ones. "Tomoyo-chan," he called out. "Look, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say that, but..."

He paused for a while took a deep breath. "I just wanted to protect you. Who knows when will that guy come back to attack you. If there are things that you wouldn't want me to know then I'll respect your privacy. Just please… Let me protect you."

Tomoyo heard every word and along with it she knew his sincerity. Looking down in his eyes, she took a small step and let him take her into his strong, caring arms.

Hmm… To share with you, the ending of this chapter is not the original plan. Haha.. :D It's supposedly Eriol will just decided to go to Tomoyo's place and be her roommate then Tomoyo will get angry. She'll go to the bar then Eriol will rescue her. Lame idea ne?

But anyway, what's done is done. Haha.. :D

Err… How shall I say this? Hmm.. well, first of all, I am glad that the views increased for the previous chapter. But I would really appreciate it more if you would give me some feedback to. I mean, most of the readers here are writers too so you know how much time will you need to give just to come up with a chapter. So wouldn't you be sad that your readers wouldn't give a small amount of time just to say something? If there is something wrong with the story, please tell me. I can revise it for the ideas you might have in mind. Hmm.. I am not angry ok? Hehe… :D I am just saying what I have in mind so that the next time I will write another chapter I am aware of what you are expecting.

That's all for now.

.brokenshadow23.