Chapter 15—The Homecoming
'How come this baked mac is not that delicious anymore?' Sakura thought to herself. She just ate ¼ of her baked macaroni and sipped in a few drops from her juice drink. After that, she just played with her food while waiting for her cousin in the cafeteria.
Eriol saw Sakura eating alone on one corner and walked towards her. He dragged his cousin with him. "Sakura-chan, what are you doing here all by yourself?" Eriol approached. He sat in front of Sakura while Syaoran sat beside him.
Sakura eyed at Eriol and then at Syaoran and then back to Eriol. "Haven't you seen Tomoyo? She was looking for you." She said plainly and went back to playing with her food.
"Oh yeah, we were supposed to meet at the playground at 11." Eriol snapped, taking a glance at the wall clock, "It's 11:45 already. I'm dead." He dashed out as fast as he can.
"Are you done eating?" Syaoran asked, "You haven't even touched your food."
Sakura avoided his gaze. "I'm just not hungry." She responded.
"Are you not feeling well? Maybe you should take a rest." He slightly touched her forehead to feel for her temperature.
Sakura shook his hand off her face. "I'm perfectly fine. What are you doing here? You must be out restaurant hopping right?" She grumbled.
Syaoran looked down and took his hand off the table. He faked out a smile and responded, "Kaho-sensei told us that the information we got the past few days were sufficient already. Also, the very hot weather is not good for Aika so we retreated."
Sakura shivered when she heard that name. Her name. 'He really cares for her a lot.' She hastily stood off her seat, "I'm going back to our room now. Bye." She just waved her hand at him and flittered off. She didn't look at him even once during their short conversation.
Syaoran sadly watched as she walked out. He couldn't understand why she is acting like that whenever he's around. He could not figure out what he has done her wrong for her to treat him so coldly.
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The bell rang throughout the entire campus, signaling the most awaited dismissal time. Students usually hurry out from their rooms to go home but today was different. Only a few could be seen walking out of the school gate. Everyone was still busy finishing the works assigned to them. Tomorrow is the last day of the preparation and then comes the homecoming.
"I'm going now Takashi." Syaoran said, tapping his friend's shoulder. "Ja!" He left the room and proceeded to the auditorium where Sakura and her group are working.
Aika followed after him. "Syaoran-kun! Wait up." She caught up with him. "Are you going home already? Is it okay if I go home with you and Sakura-chan?" She asked.
Syaoran turned to her, obviously uninterested. "Sorry Aika. Eriol said that they will be staying late tonight to finish some stuffs. I'll be waiting till they're finished." He explained. "You should go home first. See you tomorrow." He waved his hand and continued his walking.
Aika frowned. "See you." She responded. She walked the opposite way and went home by herself.
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Sakura got her stuff from her locker and said goodbye to Tomoyo and Eriol. She wore her jacket and walked out of the school's main door. She was planning to walk her way home when she saw Syaoran's car parked in front of the main school gate. She walked towards his car and found him sleeping on the driver's seat.
She doesn't know how to react. She just trampled to the other side and got in to the passenger's seat. "Syaoran, let's go home now." She said as she slightly shook his hand.
Syaoran yawned and looked at her. She turned her head towards the window. He sighed, "Okay. Let's go." He started the engine and sped up.
"You shouldn't have waited for me." Sakura mumbled without looking at him.
"It's alright. Besides, I don't have anything to do at home." Syaoran responded, gazing at her from the side mirror. He felt a little relieved that she broke the frightening silence between them.
"Then you should've stayed at the auditorium. It is cold out here." She continued.
He smiled and cleared his throat, "It's okay. I didn't want to bother you and your group." He pulled the car off to the garage.
Sakura stepped out and hurried inside the house. They ate dinner together, silently. Syaoran just watched her every move and observed every expression she makes.
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Everyone at school is busy working and rushing to finish things for tomorrow night's big celebration. They won't be coming to school the entire day tomorrow to prepare themselves. Then, at exactly 9 o'clock, the most awaited celebration shall begin. Rules are set that from 9:00 in that evening, no one will be allowed to leave the auditorium until the homecoming celebration is over.
Sakura and her group came early to school to polish everything for the auditorium; as well as Syaoran and his group. They had a meeting with the teacher-in charge to them as well with the school's cafeteria personnel who would manage the foods for tomorrow.
Time passed by so fast that they didn't even notice that it was lunch time already.
"Sakura, would you please drop this paper at Tereda-sensei's office? Pretty please?" Tomoyo asked her cousin while busily cleaning up the left over materials.
Sakura smiled at her. "Of course, Tomoyo-chan!" She took the paper from the latter and headed to the faculty office.
"Syaoran-kun! What are you doing out here?" Aika questioned. She smiled cutely at him.
"Nothing. I just went out for a walk since I don't have anything left to do." He responded plainly. He felt a little annoyed when he heard her voice because Aika had been following him all day. "Is something the matter?"
"Nope. I just saw you going out so I followed." She explained.
"I see. I guess you should go back in, it's hot here outside." Syaoran stated, trying to sound nice.
"No, it's okay. If you need someone to talk to, I'm here." She replied reassuringly as she patted him on the shoulder. 'I have to let him know that I'll always be here for him. I have to cheer him up, he's been so downcast since yesterday.'
"I hope we can finish everything today." Sakura prayed. She took a glance outside the window she happened to pass by. She stopped. It was Syaoran and Aika talking under the shades of a tree. Even though her mind tells her to just ignore them and continue to where she is supposed to go, her heart prevents her from doing so. She just watched the two from that small window along that empty corridor. 'They are getting really close with each other. I'm sorry Aika, but I won't give up just yet. I will be Syaoran's partner for the homecoming night.'
The wind blew softly across the playground. The trees waved their branches along with the breeze of the wind.
"Ouch." Aika cried, she rubbed her temples.
"What's the matter, Aika?" Syaoran asked. He turned to her and leaned closer.
Sakura was startled when she saw him moving closer to her. She gulped, her heart pounding faster, "No Syaoran, don't!!" She screamed in her mind.
"Something got on my eye. Would you blow it for me?" She muttered.
Syaoran nodded, "Alright, stay still." He touched her face and leaned much closer.
Sakura saw them, she couldn't believe her eyes. She suddenly turned her back from the window before she could even see what he will do next. She leaned against the wall as a single hot tear fell from her emerald orb. 'Do I still have something to fight for? I don't even have anything to hold on to.' Slowly, she walked away from that window as she tried her best to conceal the pain. She did not even attempt to look back.
"Is it gone?" Syaoran asked.
"Yeah. Thanks a lot, Syaoran-kun." Aika smiled happily.
"I'll just go to the comfort room." Syaoran replied nonchalantly and then he walked off.
Aika could only smile.
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"Here's the document you asked from Tomoyo, Tereda-sensei." Sakura said, she handed out the pieces of paper and smiled.
"Are you alright Sakura? You don't look so good." Mr. Tereda questioned worriedly. "You must be really tired."
Sakura shook her head off, "Yeah, the past few days had been very busy but I'm alright sensei."
"Alright. Thanks for bringing this in." Tereda-sensei smiled at her. Sakura smiled back and waved before leaving the room.
She puffed. "Do I really look so stressed? I'm terrible." She entered the comfort room. She splashed tap water onto her face and wiped it gingerly with her handkerchief. "I should not let him see me like this." She looked at herself in the mirror. She pouted, "Sensei's right, I look bad. My eyebags are horrible, I haven't had enough sleep for the past days."
"Hey Sakura-chan! I'm glad too see you here." Aika greeted. She just went out of the cubicle. She walked near Sakura, motioned her hand on the infrared controlled faucet and started hand washing.
Sakura sighed, she was not really happy to see her. She's been doing her best today to avoid her and Syaoran. "Hi Aika." She greeted back. "I just washed my face. I'm going now. See you later." Sakura forced out a smile. She walked towards the door.
"Wait Sakura-chan." Aika called out. Sakura paused and turned to her. "I just want to let you know that Syaoran and I are getting much closer. I like him a lot and I guess, he's starting to like me back. Please help me win his heart, Sakura-chan." She said to her and smiled.
Sakura was astonished with what she just said. What she said was exactly the fact she's been avoiding and unwilling to confront. 'I like him a lot, he's starting to like me back.' She really felt like crying again but she did her best to stop her tears from falling. Instead, she just smiled at her. "Really? Then that's good. I guess everything is going great between you and Syaoran, I don't think you'll still need my help. I'm going now. I wish you luck." She hurriedly stepped out of the door and walked away as fast as she can. Everyone stared at her as she passed through the corridors but she didn't cared.
She reached the rooftop and stopped there. She sat on one corner and covered her face with her hands. "This is just too much. It hurts a lot. It's breaking me already." She shrieked as tears streamed down her eyes. "Why do I have to suffer like this? Syaoran, why can't you just love me the way I love you? Please just make me the one you love. Please let it be me. Please." She sobbed and let out all the pain she's been concealing.
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"Wow! We finished everything on time!" Eriol exclaimed happily.
"We did it!" Tomoyo jumped for joy. "The stage is fantastic. Thanks to Sakura-chan!" She continued.
"No!" Sakura objected. "Thanks to everyone! I just sketched the model; it's everyone who worked hard to put the designs on!" She cheered.
"Yeah! We all did great!" Eriol agreed.
"Cheers!" Everyone shrieked in unison.
Sakura managed to fix herself after she poured her heart out. She felt a little better after she let out all the pain in her heart. Somehow, she managed to accept the fact that Aika rubbed on her face back there. 'Just let me be with him on the homecoming night. After that, I would give up on my feelings.' She made up her decision. She can't let herself suffer more than she already does.
She went home with Syaoran and they ate dinner together. She hadn't said a word to him nor did she even look at him. Even though they are so close, there's a big barrier separating them from one another.
Syaoran felt really sad and puzzled. He doesn't know what to do anymore; every time he approaches her, she ignores him. Every time he tries to get close, she moves away. Their friendship is just falling apart before his very eyes and he couldn't do anything to save it. No matter how he tries, she just won't let him.
He took his pillows from his room and walked towards her room. He took a deep breath before entering. "Sakura, I've decided to sleep with you tonight." He said plainly. He laid his pillows on her bed.
"You can't." She objected and threw his pillows back to him.
"Why can't I? I want to sleep here!" He exclaimed. He laid his pillows back on her bed.
"Not this time!"
"I really want to sleep here Sakura. I'm jumping in!"
Sakura kicked his pillows from her bed to the floor. "I said you can't! You can't because I don't want you to! You can't just do anything you want, whenever you want it. Don't you still get it? I don't want to be near you!" She yelled at him.
Syaoran gaped, he was surprised of what she just said. He felt pain on his chest that it almost choked him. He already knew that she's avoiding him, he just doesn't want to believe it. He silently took his pillows from the floor and turned his back from her. "I don't exactly know what I did to make you that mad. I've been trying to reach you but you keep pushing me away." He cleared his throat, "Fine, I'm going back to my room. I won't bother you anymore. I just have one thing to ask from you, just one thing, please come to the homecoming night. I have something important to tell you. So please, please come." He said before he left her room.
Sakura cried. She never thought that she could say that to him. How could she be so harsh on him, on the person she loves so much? His words came repeating on her ears. "Is he going to tell me that he likes her? Is he going to tell me that he loves her? Maybe that is it. But I would still go; I will be his partner no matter what."
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The most awaited day finally came. The sun rose elegantly signaling the beginning of a new day; the special day everyone on Tomoeda High has worked hard and anticipated for---the Homecoming Celebration day. It has been a tradition for the school. Every year the Juniors get to organize everything for this celebration in preparation and transition to them becoming Seniors in the upcoming year. They get to have this special night with their friends and partners.
"My camcorder and the extra batteries are ready. Perfect!" Tomoyo cheered loudly. "I'm so excited to film Sakura tonight! I'm sure she'll look beautiful on this gown I made!" She continued, her eyes glittering in glee. She laid an emerald colored gown neatly on her bed. She sighed and touched her chest, "Everything is alright but why do I feel like something bad will happen." She puffed out. "No, maybe I'm just hallucinating or maybe I'm just too excited."
Aika danced around her room. She took a glance on her gown and smiled, "Tonight is going to be the happiest night of my life." She grabbed her bag from the table and clumped down the stairs. "Mom, I'm going out for a while. I just really need to talk to Syaoran. Later!"
Sakura just got out from the bathroom in her room. She dressed herself casually and sat on her dresser. She took out a brush from the drawer and started brushing her long auburn hair. "So this is the day. I'm not excited at all. Something feels really wrong." She sighed.
KNOCK. KNOCK.
"Miss, breakfast is served." Wei invited.
"Arigatou!" Sakura responded and followed after Wei. She quietly walked down the stairs and proceeded to the dining room. She found Syaoran there, silently waiting for her while reading a newspaper. "Morning!" She greeted.
"Morning." He responded plainly.
Sakura pouted. She took her seat and they started eating silently. "Syaoran, I'll be staying at Tomoyo's place until tonight. Let's just see each other at the auditorium." Sakura uttered, eyeing at him.
Syaoran looked at her. He felt glad that she's coming. "Alright. Do you want me to drop you off at Tomoyo's?"
"No, I'll be alright. She'll come to pick me up." She replied.
"Alright."
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"Have your clothes arrived? How about Syaoran's?" Tomoyo questioned. She sat on the passenger's seat beside her boyfriend.
"Yeah. Our clothes arrived yesterday." Eriol responded. "Hey, isn't that Aika?" He continued, pointing out on a girl sitting on a bus.
Tomoyo eyed to where Eriol pointed at. "Absolutely. Where do you think is she going?"
"I don't know. Who cares." Eriol sped up, passing through the bus.
"That bus is heading the same direction as us. Do you think she would go to see Syaoran?" She asked curiously, reminiscing on what she heard Aika said the other day.
"No way! Why would she go see him? She's got no business with him anymore, the preparation is long over."
"You're right. Let's hurry."
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"Syaoran!" Eriol greeted when the door opened.
"What are you doing here so early?" Syaoran sighed, messing up his hair even more. He signaled his cousin and Tomoyo to come in.
"I brought your clothes silly. We also came to pick Sakura up." Eriol explained after taking a seat on the sofa.
"Morning Sakura-chan!" Tomoyo greeted cheerily. "I've got your gown finished. I'm sure you'll love it so much. I can't wait to record you and Syaoran dancing tonight!" She continued, laughing cutely and her eyes glimmering this time.
Syaoraa and Sakura blushed. "I'm really thankful to you Tomoyo-chan."
"That's alright! You know how much I love making clothes for you and dressing you up and filming you and watching you. Sakura, you're just too kawaii!" She said further, her eyes glittering even brighter. The other three sweatdropped.
"Yeah, that's enough dear." Eriol interrupted her moment. "Let's get going. You girls still have more preparing to do." He dragged Tomoyo who is still caught up in her world and headed towards the door. "Syaoran, we'll just see you at the auditorium later. Don't worry about Sakura, I'll bring her along with us safe and sound and beautiful." He winked at his cousin and trampled towards his car. Syaoran blushed.
"Were going now Syaoran-kun. I'll see you later." Sakura smiled at him, waved and followed after the couple.
"Alright. Be careful Sakura. Hey Eriol, don't drive too fast!" He responded.
"Yeah, I know that already! Let's go!" Eriol started the car's engine and pulled off.
Syaoran watched them as they disappeared from his sight. He went back inside the house and up to his room. He hung his clothes on the closet's handle and plopped onto his bed. "Tonight's going to be the night. I'm starting to get nervous." He puffed. 'How will I approach her? Eriol said that the perfect time to confess is when we are dancing. Darn it, but how will I say it?' He stared up blankly to the ceiling. "Practice makes perfect. I have to practice my lines." He hurriedly got up from his bed and faced the mirror. He brushed his hair neatly and cleared his throat, "Sakura. Sakura, you know.. Ummm, you see.. There is something I really wanted to tell you for a long time now. I just… You see, I just haven't got the guts to… to say it.. but I've been holding inside, really.. you know, Sakura, I… I am so… so.. dee--------"
KNOCK! KNOCK!
He was startled. He turned back from the mirror, messed his hair up and dashed towards the door. "What is it?"
"Sorry to interrupt you Master but----"
"No Wei. You're not interrupting me. Actually, I wasn't doing anything in particular. Yeah." He said defensively and rubbed the back of his head. 'I look like a fool. Really.'
"I see Master. But someone is looking for you outside. I asked her to come in but she refused. She said that she would just wait for you outside." Wei explained.
"She? Who?"
"She hasn't said her name. She just said that she wanted to talk to you about something really important."
"Okay. I'm coming."
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"Oh my gosh! You've got eyebags Sakura!" Tomoyo shrieked. "I can't believe it, since when did you have this?" She panicked.
Sakura sweatdropped. "Relax Tomoyo. We have been working really hard this past few days and we haven't had enough sleep, it is normal."
"Even so, we should banish that." She exclaimed. She gently laid her cousin on her bed and damped cucumber on her eyes. "That would lessen the swell, I hope."
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Meanwhile…
"Morning Syaoran-kun!"
"Morning! What are you doing here Aika?" He said plainly with his hands on his pockets.
Aika smiled at him. "I came by to see you. I have a favor to ask from you."
"I see. Let's go and talk inside." He invited and started walking towards the door.
"No Syaoran-kun!" She protested. "Let's just stay here." She looked around and through the windows, looking if Sakura is there somewhere.
"Fine. What is that favor you wanna ask?"
"Syaoran-kun, you probably know by now about my sickness right? You know, the short time we spent together had been the greatest time of my entire life." She smiled. "I truly enjoyed being with you and I'm very grateful to you for taking good care of me." She continued and walked closer to him. "You know Syaoran-kun, from the very first time I saw you when we were in middle school, I already had a crush on you, and after I've got to know you more, I had fallen in love with you." She looked straight into his eyes and smiled.
Syaoran gulped, he was astonished on her last statement. He looked away. "I'm sorry Aika." He felt really bad. "I don't want to hurt you but I already have someone I love. I'm really sorry."
"I know. Sakura-chan right?" She held his hands, tears streaming down her eyes. "I knew it from the very beginning. But even so, it didn't change my feelings for you." She continued. "Syaoran, I'm dying."
"What? What are you talking about?"
"I'm leaving tomorrow night for America. I'll be having a heart transplant there. The doctor said that there's a 50-50 chance that I'll survive the operation."
"Then if you're having an operation, why are you telling me that you're dying?'
"Because I feel like I am. I feel so weak, I feel like my body won't survive that type of operation."
"How can you say that for yourself? You haven't even tried that before! You cannot tell if you're dying or not!"
"I know it, but I feel it." She cried harder and threw herself at Syaoran. She hugged him snug. Syaoran just stood still. "I'm not sure if I'll be able to see you again after the operation. I'm not sure if I'll be able to survive. So please Syaoran, I beg you. Please accept my one last request from you."
"What is it?"
"Please be my partner for tonight. Please, I beg of you. Please just let me have one special memory of the two of us. Please."
Syaoran pulled off from her hug. He felt really confused, everything happened so fast before him. "I'm sorry, but I can't. I already asked Sakura to be my partner and tonight, I will confess to her."
"I know but can you not forgive me with my last wish." She knelt down and cried.
"What are you doing Aika? Stand up." He pulled her up.
"It just hurts so much. Ouch." She gripped her shirt on her chest and took a deep breath.
"Are you alright? What's happening? Aika!"
"I'm fine. I'll be okay." She shuddered in pain. "Please let me be your partner, even for just half of the night. Please Syaoran."
Syaoran gulped, confused. He doesn't know what to do. "Fine. I'll take you as my partner for half of the night." He responded, he panicked when he saw Aika turning pale and twitching pain. "Are you alright? I'll do it."
"I'm fine, really. Thank you so much Syaoran-kun." She stood up with his assistance and smiled sweetly at him. She wiped the tears on her cheeks. "I'm really grateful."
"Yeah. Wait for me here, I'll get some water and I'll also drop you home." He said nonchalantly, still confused. He walked away; different thoughts came running through his mind. Every thing just happened so fast. Did he just agree on being Aika's partner? What about Sakura, how will he tell her, how about his plan for tonight, how about his confession? What about Sakura's feelings, what will happen to them after this?
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The night was incredibly beautiful; the stars were present tonight, shining and shimmering in the vast mauve sky. Time elapsed so fast that before everyone noticed, it was already 8.
The doors of the auditorium finally opened. It was in front of the grand stairs lined with red carpet which will be the student's main entrance to the hall. The place was splendid. The stage is perfectly elegant with thick, royal blue drapes in the back part. A large castle painting served as the background of the stage. There were also two chairs in the center, especially reserved for the homecoming king and queen. At the right side corner, the orchestra played. On the left side was the buffet table. There is a large crystal chandelier hanging regally in the center of the room. On the corners are European architraves and sculptures topped up with formal and casual furniture and accessories, giving perfect harmony to the hall. The tables were fixed in the sides, circling the huge dance floor. The place is just sophisticated, royal and perfect.
Boys and girls in their best attires started coming. They were all excited and happy. Every student came in sweetly with their pairs, everyone hoping to be the homecoming king and queen.
At 8:30, a black limousine parked in front of the auditorium's main door. Syaoran Li stepped out of the car and opened the door for his partner. A girl in white long backless gown stepped out. Her gown was sparkling with glitters all over. Her hair was neatly fixed in a black ribbon. She smiled at her partner who was handsomely dressed in a black suit with a green polo underneath and black slacks. His hair was slightly messed up in a fashionable way. He's like the prince charming in fairy tale. Aika clung onto Syaoran's arm and they entered the auditorium together. They walked down the stairs with all eyes set on them, some are confused why Syaoran is with this girl, and some are envious while others are certain that the two just don't match each other. Aika gave out her best smile as the lights focused on them. She was obviously delighted while her partner obviously feels the opposite. His expression was so serious. They reached the last step and proceeded to a table located near the buffet table. They both sat down.
"Syaoran, thank you for being my partner for tonight." Aika held his hands and smiled, "I'll remember this for the rest of my life."
Syaoran pulled his hand from her and just forced out a smile. He couldn't wait for the first half of the celebration to end. He looked around the auditorium, searching for Sakura. All he could ever think about right now is Sakura. He didn't tell her about Aika's request for he was afraid that she might not come if she finds out. He had been thinking of the best way and timing to explain to her but he just couldn't get it right. All he ever thought is that she should come, then after the first half ends; he'll go to her and explain.
Not long after, another black limousine pulled off in front of the auditorium entrance. Eriol Hiirigazawa first stepped out. He was wearing a white suit with a dark blue polo underneath paired with white slacks. He was also like a prince, this time, in movies. He opened the door and a girl stepped out. She was wearing a violet haltered gown. Tomoyo's hair was laid beautifully in her back. Her gown had sequences on the upper part and ruffles on the tip. She wore a diamond necklace matched with a diamond earrings and bracelet. She looked so classy. She took a few steps to give way for her cousin. She hurriedly took her camcorder from her purple purse and focused it on Sakura as the latter reluctantly stepped out from the car. She was a little shy of her look tonight.
She was dressed in an emerald green tube gown with a gold belt-like cloth that encircles her petite waist forming an elegant ribbon in her back. It revealed the shape of her body. The lower part of the gown had glitters that shine mostly when exposed to light. The tip of her gown had green feathers minutely sown in a looping way. Her hair was curled; half was tied in a gold clip while the other half lay fully on her back. Some pieces of her hair dramatically fell in the sides of her face. She wore a gold necklace with a small "S" pendant that was designed with little stones of emerald. She also had a gold bracelet with a matching ring. Her makeup was simple. She was really astounding.
"I'm nervous Tomoyo-chan. Are you sure I look okay?" Sakura questioned, looking down at her dress.
"Of course silly! You look perfect." Tomoyo assured.
"She's right Sakura. The two of you looks very pretty tonight. I'm sure Syaoran will love the way you look tonight." Eriol said, looking lovingly at the two ladies.
"Speaking of Syaoran, where is he? I thought he would be waiting here outside?" Tomoyo searched around.
"He's not here. Maybe he got bored waiting and decided to go in. Let's just look for him inside. Let's go ladies." He invited, offering his two arms for them to hold on to.
Tomoyo and Sakura smiled at each other then they both clung onto Eriol's arms. They entered the auditorium all together.
"Wow. The auditorium is really splendid. Thanks to us!" Tomoyo bragged.
"Yeah you're right; this was all our hard work." Eriol agreed.
Sakura looked around before they went down the stairs, searching for Syaoran. 'Weird, I thought he could be here waiting for me. Where could he possibly be?' She felt her heart pounding faster. She was bothered since this afternoon. It's just like she's not confident about herself tonight or about what would happen.
Syaoran was still busy searching for signs of Sakura in the hall. He looked around and up to the stairs.
"Let's go down. Be careful ladies." Eriol said. The three of them started walking down the stairs. The lights were focused on the three of them.
All eyes were now set on them. Some wondered why Eriol has 2 partners; most guys envied him for escorting the two stunning ladies. Some commented that Eriol and Tomoyo is really a perfect match. Others focused on how different Sakura looked tonight. Yes, she's always been attractive and eye-catching in school, but tonight she's different. She looks like a grown-up, matured version of the innocent Sakura they always see at school. She was just different tonight, different in very beautiful way.
Syaoran also spotted her. He was astonished; she was indeed the prettiest girl tonight, just like she promised she would be. He stared at her lovingly, not caring about who he was with tonight. Her gown glittered along with the light, casting a dazzling effect. She forced out a smile, still searching for him. Syaoran gulped, he knew she was looking for him. He felt really bad. He wanted to run to the stairs, take her hand, lead her to the table and spend the entire night with her. He really wanted to, but he just can't because he's stuck with a girl he doesn't even feel like talking to. Aika was also attracted to Sakura herself but she brushed off the idea, she knows that she would outstand Sakura tonight because she is the partner of Syaoran. She considered herself as the star of the homecoming and not Sakura.
The three reached the last step; all of them in search for Syaoran.
Tomoyo's eyes widened. She cleared her throat, "Sakura."
Sakura turned to her. "Found him yet?"
"Yeah. There he is." Tomoyo said, staring at a table on the left side of the room.
Sakura followed her gaze and found him. She stared carefully. She met his gaze, Syaoran averted and looked down instead. She saw Aika also looking at her and even smiled at her. She rolled her eyes and looked away. She was shocked, she knew it. How could she let this happen? She felt pain and rage building up inside of her. She felt betrayed.
Eriol was also shocked. He stared at Sakura and saw that she was just about to cry. "Hey, let's go find a table." He uttered. He pulled Tomoyo and Sakura along and lead them to a table on the right side of the room, opposite and farthest from where Syaoran was.
He pulled the seat for the two ladies. They both sat down. Sakura stared blankly at the table, trying to analyze what's really happening. Syaoran just ditched her, she's here now without a partner, she has dressed for hours just for nothing and she's a complete fool. Her chest tightened and tears started building up in her orbs.
Tomoyo stared at her; she clearly knew what her cousin is feeling. She held her hand. "Sakura, calm down." She can't find the right words to say. She also felt bad; she didn't expect this to happen. 'Why would Syaoran ditched Sakura for that girl? What did she say to him to make him choose her?'
"Sakura." Eriol started, "Just forget about that jerk. He's not worth to be your partner for tonight anyway. He looked dumb on his suit." He said seriously. Sakura and Tomoyo both eyed at him. He smiled, "I can also be your partner for tonight if you want. Tomoyo wouldn't bother, right dear?"
"Of course." Tomoyo agreed. "I'm willing to share him, but only to you." She smiled, "Let's enjoy this night together. It's unique to have 3 as partners for the homecoming night, that'll be a record."
"Right! We can get through this night together. Drinks my partners?" Eriol offered.
Sakura felt a little better. It's just nice to have them with her right now. She smiled, "Eriol-kun, Tomoyo-chan, thanks for making me feel a little better. But it's okay if I'll just stay here in the table. You two could enjoy this night together, don't you worry about me. I'll be just fine." Sakura assured.
"But Sakura, I don't want to leave you here all alone and sad while I go enjoy the night. I can't do that." Tomoyo opposed.
Sakura tightened her grip on Tomoyo's hand. "Tomoyo-chan, you've already done enough for me. You made my dress and you did my make up, everything. I don't want you and Eriol to waste this night just because of me. I promise I'll be alright; you could go and enjoy yourselves. Don't worry about me, please. Actually, I prefer to be alone for a while too. I just want to ponder about things, you know."
"Are you sure about that Sakura?" Eriol asked worriedly.
Sakura smiled, "Definitely."
"A pleasant evening to everyone." Tereda-sensei greeted, he stood on the stage with Ms. Kaho. "Welcome to the 30th Homecoming Celebration of Tomoeda High. You all look good tonight. Thanks to your hard work, this event was made possible. We are really grateful to everyone who was in charge for the designs for making the auditorium fit for royalty. Thanks to all who helped out with the food, the stage and the props." Mr. Tereda continued.
"Tonight we would be awarding the homecoming king and queen." Kaho-sensei started, "The king and queen would be judged based on their attires tonight. It doesn't necessarily mean that the king and queen should be partners; the selection would be done randomly. Actually, we've already had the candidates. We found the most outstanding ladies and gentlemen as they've entered the auditorium. The king and queen would be awarded at the end of night so be sure to stay here until then. If the chosen winners are not present, the title would be given to those next in line. That's all everyone, let's begin the celebration!"
The doors of the auditorium finally closed and the orchestra started playing. Slowly, partners crowded the dance floor.
"Sakura, are you sure you'll be alright here?"
"Of course Tomoyo-chan. You go dance with Eriol-kun, don't mind me. I'll be a hundred percent fine." Sakura winked at her cousin and forced out a smile. The couple nodded and walked forward to the dance floor.
"I'm worried about Sakura. She looks so sad." Tomoyo whispered.
"Yeah, me too. I don't understand why Syaoran ditched her. He was even planning to confess to her tonight."
"Maybe that Aika witch did or told him something, what do you think?"
"Even if, he shouldn't have done this to her."
"You're right. Could this be the end for them?"
"I hope not."
On the other hand…
"Syaoran, let's dance." Aika invited, tugging Syaoran's arm.
"I'm not in the mood. Maybe later."
"Then I'll just go get something for us to eat. What do you like?"
"Anything."
"Alright." Aika sadly stood off and went to get food on the buffet table. "He is with me physically but his mind is flowing to her. I should make him think about me, and me only." She got some appetizers in a plate and went back to their table.
"Excuse me, Kinomoto Sakura, please dance with me." Another guy bowed in front of her and invited.
"Sorry but I don't really feel like dancing right now." She forced out a smile. She said the same statement to the last 5 guys who has asked her. "What a joke, they are leaving their partners to ask me to dance. I can't believe those losers, ditching the ones they've asked for tonight just to go with another girl." She glance a look to where Syaoran was and saw Aika offering him food. She looked away, "He's the biggest loser here tonight." She sighed sadly, "Maybe he didn't know how to tell me about him and Aika. He thinks this is the best way to do so. Eriol's right, he's a jerk." Her emotions stirred up inside her. She looked down. "He's a jerk for not realizing that this would hurt me more. He could've just said it to me instead of rubbing it on my face." She looked up this time, trying to stop the tears from falling. "I hate you. Really really do."
"Syaroan, let's dance. Please." Aika approached again. "I want to remember this night. We couldn't just sit here all throughout the first half."
Syaoran looked at her. "Alright. Let's go." He stood up from his seat and proceeded to the dance floor. Aika followed after him with a smile plastered on her face. They started dancing.
"You know Syaoran, this is the happiest night of my life." Aika whispered.
'Sakura, just wait until the first half of this night ends. Just wait for me.' Syaoran thought to himself, not paying attention to what his current partner was saying. He gazed at where Sakura was and saw her sitting quietly on the table. He felt terribly sorry for doing this to her.
Sakura looked again to where Syaoran was. 'He's gone. Where are they?' She searched for him in the buffet table but hasn't found him there. She looked at the group of people chatting but he wasn't present there either. Finally her eyes wandered in the dance floor and she spotted him with her, sweetly dancing to the slow music.
She just kept staring at them. 'They look good together. Maybe if I just agreed to have him on our group during the preparations, this wouldn't happen. He wouldn't meet Aika, wouldn't get close to her, and wouldn't fall in love with her. It's actually all my fault. Or is it? Maybe they were really fated to meet each other and fall in love.' She started crying, the tears she's been trying hard to hold back finally welled up. She couldn't control it anymore, it is just too painful. 'How I wish I was the girl he was dancing with tonight. I can't take this anymore, this is just too much for me to handle. I guess it's just right to give up on him already. I guess we couldn't be anything more but friends. Maybe this is the price I have to pay for falling in love with my best friend for a long time already and realizing it just too late.'
She wiped her cheeks and stood off from her seat. She walked slowly so no one could notice her. People still stared at her but she didn't cared, all she wanted that time was to get out of there. The main doors are closed and wouldn't open until the end of the celebration. She walked towards the comfort room.
She eyed herself on the mirror. Her make up was slightly messed up. "I should find a way to get out of here. I couldn't wait for this celebration to end. I couldn't afford to look more stupid than I already am. I have to get out now. But how?" She looked around until she saw a huge window at the side of room. It was large enough for her jump out without destroying the gown Tomoyo made. "Let's see." She entered the cubicle nearest to the window, took off her shoes and stepped on the toilet cover. She opened the window and looked outside. "This leads to the back of the school. It'll just take me a few steps to get to our house." She estimated. "But it's freaking high. I might break some bones." She looked down. The window was a little far above the ground. "But I really have to get out. I can do this; I just have to be extra careful." She breathed out and climbed the window gingerly. She inserted herself, her lower body coming first and then she jumped out. She fell on her right side. "Ouch. That hurts. Not only did I broke my heart, I guess I also broke my ribs." She muttered. She tried to sit up. She saw her right arm filled with scratches. She found her elbow with a wound so she blew it several times. She held her right cheek and felt scratches on it. She stood up with all her might, holding her hips. "Ouch, that really hurts." She grabbed her shoes and purse from the floor and started walking home.
Meanwhile...
Tomoyo and Eriol went back to their table after getting tired of dancing.
"Where's Sakura?" Tomoyo panicked.
"Calm down dear. Maybe she just went to the wash room."
"I'll go check her there." Tomoyo hurried to the girl's comfort room and searched for Sakura.
"The first half of the night is over." Syaoran stated, breaking off from Aika's hug. "I'm going to Sakura now."
"No. Can't you just spend the entire night with me? I guess Sakura would understand." Aika responded, hugging him tightly again.
Syaoran brushed her off. "Stop it Aika. This is just too much. I've already done enough. Because of you I ditched the one I love. I endured the half of this night doing everything you say. So please, just let me go." He continued, walking away and leaving her on the dance floor.
Aika was startled; she doesn't know what to do. "I won't give up just yet." She followed after Syaoran.
"Eriol, she's not there. Maybe she already left, but how?" Tomoyo stated worriedly.
"Calm down. Check out your cell phone, maybe she left you a message or something."
Tomoyo hurriedly took her phone from her purse and checked it out just like Eriol said. She found a message from Sakura.
"What did she say?"
"She said she'll be going home first. She said she's fine and that we shouldn't worry about her anymore. She also told me to enjoy the night with you." Tomoyo almost cried. "I really hate Syaoran for doing this to my Sakura!" She grunted.
"Tomoyo, Eriol, where is Sakura?" Syaoran asked worriedly. He wasn't able to find her anywhere in the room.
"Why are you asking for her now?" Tomoyo responded angrily.
"I'll explain everything to you guys later. I just need to find her. Please."
"Syaoran. Don't look for her anymore. Let's just enjoy the night together." Aika mumbled from his back.
Syaoran glared at her. "I told you to stay away didn't I? I've already done so much for you. If there's one person I really wanted to be with tonight, that is not you." He uttered, turning back at her again. "Please Tomoyo, tell me where she is." He pleaded.
Tomoyo finally understood what's happening. If there's someone to blame, it's not Syaoran. It's this witch. "She went home."
"But how?"
"We don't know. She just sent me a message telling me----"
Before Tomoyo even finished, Syaoran ran off to find a way to get out of the place. Eriol followed after him. Aika attempted to follow him also but Tomoyo stopped her.
"What did you say to Syaoran? Speak up." Tomoyo threatened.
"I didn't say anything to him."
"I'm sure you did!"
"Fine. I told him the truth, that I love him, and that I'll be leaving tomorrow for America to have an operation. I asked him to be my partner and he agreed."
"Told him the truth? That was all a lie!"
"What are you talking about?"
"I heard your conversation with the principal. You told her that you'll be leaving for a minor surgery 2 weeks after the homecoming. You planned everything out to get Syaoran to be your partner for tonight." Tomoyo revealed, glaring at Aika.
Aika was startled with what Tomoyo said to her. She saw everyone eyeing at her with disgust. She walked out and went back to their table.
"That was quite a show dear." Eriol said, rubbing the back of Tomoyo. "Chill out now. Everything will be alright, Syaoran already left to go see Sakura."
---------------
Author's Notes: That's chapter 15. Sorry for making you wait for so long. I'm terribly sorry guys. I am really busy with my studies right now. Thanks to our university week celebration, I was given time to complete this chapter. I'm not yet sure when will be my next update but just as I promised, I would finish this story.
Coming Up: The moment of truth. That's all. Haha. I'm sure you'll love the next chapter. XD