Hello! Well, I'm back! and I want to thank my first two and only reviewees; rosy-fric & Mizumaki-Joo. I hope this chapter doesn't disappoint you or anyone, who chooses to read this story.

Disclaimer: I don't own css, but I'll love to!

Harmonizing Home

Months have past since the burial of my father and brother. And once again, I didn't cry. And once again, the people who came gave looks of discomfort towards me. I could hear them whisper, gossip behind my back that saying how I should go see a psychologist, basically get some help mental help. I did just lose the remaining two members of my family.

That was until; Auntie Sonomi got her act together and defended me. I haven't seen her for quite a while. Auntie Sonomi was like my second mother ever since I was born, she was my mother's one and only best friend. Problem being, she never really approved of my mother marrying my father. So, after attending to my mother's funeral, she sold her house, said her good byes and left for the city. Whilst taking her daughter, Tomoyo; with her of course.

Tomoyo Daidouji, I think we're cousins but then again I'm not so sure, it's pretty complicated seeing that it was from my mother's side. And I never really was that curious to ask. But I think you could say we were best friends, more precisely childhood friends. But when Auntie Sonomi left, so did Tomoyo and she took our friendship with her. She simply never replied to my written letters.

After the funeral, Auntie Sonomi comforted me, she was the only one to spoil me when I was young. I'm not sure if it was favouritism, or that maybe I was special or if it was because I was Nadeshiko's daughter, I would never know. At that time, she was the only sincere one, she really was sorry for my family's death. Whilst the others were here because they believed it was their responsibility/duty as they had known my father/brother.

During the whole time, I knew Auntie Sonomi was waiting for the "right" moment to tell me something, how? She was struggling to keep the conversation going, seeing that I wasn't co-operative.

"I'm sorry. I just don't feel like talking today." I told her straight out. I really was sorry. I felt rude. I then felt a hand gave my hand a squeeze. This was it.

"Sakura, I have a proposition to offer you. You can choose to decline. But I really do hope you accept…" she had started.

I gave her the nod, needed to continue on.

"Come stay with me, and Tomoyo. I now own the largest toy factory in Japan, so accommodation and all would be no problem. You can also go to the same school as Tomoyo's. It's one of the best in Japan…I want to look after you."

Silence then came between us. But we both understood, at least I hoped she did. I needed time to contemplate. It only took me 5 minutes, really. All reasoning led me to accepting her proposal. I want to get away.

I wanted to start again. I don't mean forget about my family altogether, but I really don't want to be consistently reminded of them because it always lead to them leaving me.

"Auntie Sonomi, are you sure?" I asked.

Her eyes gleamed, I saw hope. "Of course, my child."

I smiled, but then my smile faltered. "But, can I ask why?"

Was it because she felt guilty, leaving in the first place? Sorry, that now I have no family? Responsible, seeing that she was the best friend of my mum's? Giving, now she has a lot of money?

I don't want to be a burden.

"Because, you're like the daughter, I had to leave behind." It came out so, effortlessly. She smiled.

"And you're like my second mother." I told her, truthfully. Somehow, I was expecting disgust or horror to be evident in her eyes, but instead love was there. We embraced on impulse.

"I really missed you, Auntie Sonomi."

"I missed you too, sweet heart. Now how about we go grab something to eat?"

As we came into a cute little cafe, we sat down and ordered.

"Auntie Sonomi, do I have to sell my house?..." I was thinking about it the whole time.

I really didn't want to, but I know I can't be selfish. That money could be going towards my accommodation, if not my school fee. I then realize the situation, put at hand. I had put my auntie in a rather awkward position.

"I mean, I wouldn't mind. Actually, I really would be happy to…" I lied.

A chuckled could be heard from across the table, "You always were terrible at lying, since you were young. And no, you will not sell that house. You're father worked hard to buy that house for your mother. And I know you know that."

"Thank you." I smiled a grateful smile. She smiled back.

"I really am so grateful, you came back. And even more grateful at your proposal. So, surely there's something I can do to repay you." I asked with hopeful eyes.

"You don't have any reason to feel bad. It was I who offered and not you who asked. And you know how I'm always out at work; Tomoyo would now have you as company. She'll be so glad to see you."

I could tell she was trying to make me feel better, ever since we left the funeral, and I appreciated it.

"Thank you. I too, am looking forward into seeing Tomoyo."

The food came, we waited for the waitress to set the food down. And we began to eat.

"Auntie Sonomi, I want to work. I'm going to work, and all my earnings would go to you. I know it won't be enough but as soon as I graduate, I'll work even more. And even then, I know I'll still be in your debt but…" I was cut short, seeing as I really didn't know how to continue, what else can I do?

Sonomi could tell that Sakura was very determined with her decision. From experience, there really was no point to argue with her, seeing that her choice was never truly illogical or immoral.

"Sakura, are you sure? This year, is your final year. I can most definitely wait for you to look for work the following year. And I'll repeat, you're not in debt to me, I asked, not you."

"I still want to work; I'll balance it out with school work. That way, I won't throw away the school tuition fee you paid for. I promise." I was desperate; I didn't want to be a burden. I want to help out as much as I can; I want to be as independent as I can.

Sonomi could see this, Sakura saw herself as a burden.

"We're family, Sakura. Like we said before, you're my lost daught, and I'm you're second mother. I'll accept the money; well, part of it; I want you to start saving some for yourself. You're never will be burden."

"Auntie Sonomi…." I was still struggling.

"I'll tell you what. I actually have a favor to ask but it might be over the top…"

"No, I'll do it!"

"Sakura, I won't hold you to your words, you haven't heard the rest of my sentence."

I nodded. What could it be? Maybe, she's right, maybe I really couldn't handle it.

"Do you think you can call me, okaasan; instead of Auntie Sonomi?"

Then, silence came.

"Only, if you accept my earnings…" I smiled.

Relief had swept past us, both.

"….okaasan." It came out pretty easy. Not because I was eager to call her mum, I hope not. But, I guess it was because Auntie Sonomi is the closest thing I have as a mum right now and I missed having a mum. But, of course, that doesn't mean she'll replace my real okaachan. Never.

"I'm hope you know, I'm not trying to impose to replace your mother. I'll never do that. And don't feel oblige to call me that because if you do, I rather you not call me, okaasan at all."

I shook my head, wanting her to realize that she's misunderstanding my actions.

"I know. And I want to, okaasan. And please, feel free to call me whatever you like. I actually miss you calling me, Sakura chan and then pinching my cheeks." We both laughed at that memory.

"Ah…the foods gone cold, let's get them to heat it up for us again. Neh? Sakura chan!"

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(Note well: okaasan=Sakura's Auntie, Sonomi, whilst okaachan=Sakura's mother, Nadeshiko)

It took me, a whole month to pack. I felt bad. I caught okaasan talking on her phone about her company a few times. She needed to go back A.S.A.P. But when she caught me, listening in on her phone call, she told me that she understood and that I should take my time. I needed to hurry.

But it took a very long time. Although, dad and Touya just came back, they had already unpacked everything. I didn't want to put everything into a box, I realized, I wanted everything the way it was, the way they had left it. So, I went out to buy those really big white sheets, to put over any furniture that dust could get onto. But that, itself took long. It brought back memories; placing each white blanket over each furniture. But it was worth it, I guess I wanted to return back here one day, to find that nothing has really changed.

As I was about to place a sheet over Touya's bed, I noticed a book-like object sticking out from under his pillow. I reached forward. His diary.

I never knew he had a diary. Not once had he mentioned it. I let it slip out of my hands and drop onto Touya's bed.

Ran into my father's room. And under his pillow was his copy of a diary. I brought it into Touya's room. To read, or not to read; is the question.

I sat down on the carpet, with their diaries in my hands. They were lonely.

I wasn't the only one, who was lonely when they left. They were too. It explained the diary, it was a way to express their feelings; since they had no one else to express to.

I was scared to read it, scared to find out they really were lonely during all this time and that I really wasn't the only one.

I guessed, it was fate that decided to choose for me. Touya's diary dropped from my shaking hands and opened up to a page.

(note well: italics Touya's Diary.)

27/04 Tuesday

ARGH! School just can't get any worst, I've got 2 med essays to do tonight; and I can't find my BOOKS!!

I laughed at that passage, it sounded just like him. I heart started to hurt.

ARGH! Stuff it! I'll just call the Kaijuu and see what she's up to; she'll cheer me up, no doubt. If not, I'll just keep teasing her until, I'm no longer pissed. Hehehehehe.

I giggled at that, at the name of "kaijuu" my feet wanted to stomp something, particularly Touya's feet. I decided to keep reading, noticing that the next paragraph was written in another colour.

That, kaijuu. I just spoken to her on the phone, she didn't sound lonely at all. But then again, that doesn't mean she isn't. I want to go home. But not until I've finished university. Knowing the kaijuu, she'll be upset. But I should try to visit more often, I sorta miss that kaijuu.

But in the end, I just want to protect her. Yes, protect the little kaijuu. Protect my kaijuu. Oh God, imagine, how embarrassing it would be, if she found out?

I laughed at his final sentence; Touya and his pride. I flicked through a bit more of dad's and Touya's diary. These diaries weren't written out of loneliness, but out of concern. That was how much they cared, cared for me.

I then felt like a whole weight was lifted off my shoulders; father, brother, rest in peace. From now on, I'll stand on my own two feet and I'll protect myself, now on.

It was then decided that those diaries were definitely coming with me. It was like they were still alive, when reading them.

Packing my stuff was easier, not because I was eager to leave or that I felt like I needed to hurry it up for okaasan. But because it was my stuff. I only brought things that were precious to me and things that were needed. The necessities; clothes, books, hair accessories, stationery etc. and then there were things that were precious; photo albums, Spinel (which Nadeshiko made right after the "Kero" incident), my locket etc. And definitely the diaries, I even got a special box to put them in.

When I finally got to re-check I had everything I wanted packed pack. I realized, by the time I get to the city, Tomoeda; school would be about to start.

………………………………………………………………………………………………

On the 27th of May, I left my hometown. What, I also left behind was the old, cheerful me. It was what I wanted.

I guess, that was goodbye.

Father, brother, God bless your souls. You no longer have to stress about me, I'll look after myself.

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When we arrived at the airport, I was expecting to see Tomoyo. But she wasn't there. Okaasan said, it was because she was busy, I understood.

It was then I realized how rich and famous, okaasan was. Security guards, limousines, reporters, fans etc were waiting for our arrival; well, more like her arrival. She handled it like a pro. Her face at that particular moment showed no emotion. She grabbed hold of my hand, I was thankful; I was afraid I would get lost. What I didn't realize was her, pulling me up to the front stage of the reporters.

"This girl here, is my daughter. That is all."

To say, I was startled at her announcement was an understatement. I was surprised and shocked to beyond belief. She then led me out towards the limousine with the help of the security guards of course.

"You really didn't have to do that." I said, as we sat in the limo.

"I know, but I wanted to. Plus, if I didn't they might make up stories." she replied calmly.

"But, they might think I'm a "love-child", it'll ruin your reputation." I definitely didn't want that to happen.

"They wouldn't dare. I said you were my daughter. That's that. If they were to say anything else, I can easily sue. So, if I didn't say that, and they saw you with me; they really might have tried to do that, saying that they didn't know any better."

I started to nod my head, unconsciously. No wonder, okaasan is the owner of the largest toy company in Japan. She knew, how to play her cards well.

"Okaasan, arigatou."

Okaasan, smiled. "Anything, for my cherry blossom."

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Sonomi's POV

I looked at the young girl sitting beside me, admiring the limo and the scenery.

Nadeshiko was right. Sakura really does put everyone and everything above herself. She was well-mannered, caring, giving; the list really does go on.

But she's up to something, I know my cherry blossom is up to something. Something, not good.

Her smiles were starting to falter, ever since they left Sakura's hometown.

I'm worried.

…………………………………………………………………………………………….

Sakura's POV

In a short while, we arrived.

"Okaasan, you never told me, you lived in a mansion, a really big mansion."

It was true, the estate had everything from the basics, well an extravagant garden to the golf course, tennis court, basketball court etc. It was more than big.

"Well, here in the city, houses are like this. And there are definitely other houses bigger than this one. Saku-chan."

I nodded. "Am I really allowed to live here?"

The question wasn't directed towards Sonomi, but more of Sakura. Did she really have the… "rights" to live here?

"Of course, and don't be silly. You're not going anywhere. This is your home now."

I smiled, it had a ring to it. Home.

………………………………………………………………………………………………

I recognized Tomoyo as soon as I saw her. She hadn't changed much, apart from her maturing, of course. She still had her long violet hair and her dazzling amethyst eyes. It was what set her apart from everyone else, it made her stand out. When she came towards us, I noticed what she was wearing, a cute tiny T-shirt and a mini skirt. I started to wonder, if she felt cold?

"Tomoyo…." the name flew out of my mouth. I step forward, to give her a hug.

Problem being, she just stood there. I unattached myself from her.

"Mum, who is she?" she had said.

That, would explain it. I blushed, how embarrassing.

"I'm Sakura, remember? We always played together when we were young."

Tomoyo gave me the 'weird' look and looked towards her mother. Okaasan gave her the reassuring look and a few nods.

"Oh…of course. Sakura! How could I forget?" she started to laugh, half heartedly. I think she was trying to play along, not wanting the situation to get awkward.

I forced myself to laugh too.

"Well, it's good to see you two get acquainted with each other again. Tomoyo, Sakura from now on is staying with us. Treat her as your younger sister. I have no doubt that you would. Now, I know I just got back but I need to get back to my work. Tomoyo, be a dear and show Saku to the remaining master bedroom…"

"Okaasan, are you…" I had started. The master room? That really is too much.

"Saku, you're staying in that room. Now, I'll be in my room, if you guys need me. Moyo dear, show Kura around." She had said in a flash.

With that, me and Tomoyo gave her a kiss on the cheek and she left.

……………………………………………………………………………………………….

"So, urmmm…" it was awkward.

"Just follow me. Your room is just around here." Tomoyo had said, and started to head in the other direction.

I nodded and grabbed my stuff, 2 suitcases. And tried to keep up with Tomoyo.

She wasn't kidding, the room was just around a corner or two. I was thankful, the suitcases weren't exactly light. I stopped right it front of the door.

"Well, don't just stand there, go in."

I felt stupid, standing in front of the door, blocking Tomoyo from any access.

I turned the knob and looked into the room. But it was then that I felt a rather harsh shove from behind me, which resulted in me releasing my luggage and stepping forward into the room. The door shut closed a second later.

"Look and listen. And you better remember this. This is my home. My territory. You'll be living under my rules. I don't know what's going on in mum's head, but let me assure you, you're just some "bum". My mum felt sorry for, so she took you in." She had anger in her eyes.

I guess, I then knew my spot.

"Hai, Dadouji-san. I promise I won't get into your way. And if you need any assistance at all, feel free to ask me." I really didn't want Tomoyo and me to be at bad-terms.

"You'll call me, Dadouji-san; when we're alone and at school. But when mum is around, don't you even dare. She'll probably get all suspicious and then ask you, what was wrong. And knowing you, you'll probably make me sound like the bad guy."

"I would never do that, Dadouji-san. And I respect your wishes." Maybe I did something in the past, to make her believe I was that kind of person. I wasn't a rat.

"Good. Now, let me get this straight. Me and you are NOT friends, so don't even think about telling the student at school, you're living under this household. Secondly, don't even try the friendly act, I won't buy it. And at school, do not go near me; I don't want to be seen in the same picture with you, got it? Next, in front of mum, we'll be playing the best-friend/sister role, that she believes we are. Understand? And lastly, and most importantly; stay away from Li Syaoran." She had ended her speech, by pronouncing every syllable of her last sentence, stay away from Li Syaoran.

I nodded, at her demeanor. But I guess she was expecting an official reply.

"I understand. Dadouji-san."

Tomoyo then huffed and left the room. I guess her business was done.

…………………………………………………………………………………………….

The master bedroom definitely surpassed my own bedroom in my hometown. I somehow felt I didn't deserve it. But if I were to say something, it would be to complain, which then would further trouble okaasan.

So, I'll just be grateful. I'll repay her, someday.

…………………………………………………………………………………………….

After dinner, I was informed school actually starts tomorrow.

I guess, that means that my new life would be also starting tomorrow.

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