Chapter 6

Tomoyo walked into a supermarket with a list in her hands. When she turned a corner, she saw a familiar face at the very end of the aisle.

Naoko? Just then, the woman glanced her way and made eye contact. They waved and walked towards each other down the aisle. Behind her was a man Tomoyo didn't recognize, but he seemed like the studious, cute type.

"Hey!" Naoko hugged her.

"Hi! How are you?"

"I'm great. I'm glad to bump into you! Tomoyo, this is Kohei, Sakura's fiancé." Naoko pulled Kohei forward. "Kohei, this is Tomoyo. Sakura probably told you all about her."

He somewhat shook his head, then laughed awkwardly. "No, not really, but hi, it's nice to meet you."

Tomoyo laughed. "That's all right." She shook his hand. "Nice to meet you."

"You just came back, right?"

"Yes, from London, less than a month ago."

"Kohei asked me to help him cook some of Sakura's favorite dishes," Naoko explained, showing the basket Kohei was carrying. "Isn't he such a sweetie?!"

"Aw! That is really sweet. Where is she by the way?"

Kohei answered, "oh she decided to take the weekend off."

"Oh right! I saw her last night. It was really good," Tomoyo added when Naoko sent her a surprised glance. "We patched things up between us."

"Thank goodness!"

"Mm. But she never mentioned why she wanted the weekend off. Do you know why, Kohei?"

Huh. He'd never heard from Sakura about this meeting with Tomoyo. It seemed like a pretty big deal if she forgave her during that meeting.

When he realized the girls were still looking at him expectantly, he blinked. "Oh, she was getting stressed about everything, you know. Wedding and work and so on… I told her to take a break, but she'll be back on Monday night. So you said you saw her last night?"

Surprised, Tomoyo nodded. She thought Sakura would've told him. "Yeah, at a…bar. Well, it was supposed to be just Eriol, Syaoran, and I, but Syaoran kind of…dragged her in without her consent," Tomoyo answered with a small laugh. "You know, the two of them, they're a funny duo. They've been inseparable since they were babies, so they know each other really well. And Syaoran's the only one who can make her do something she doesn't want to do, but of course, that didn't happen so easily."

"She punched him," Naoko concluded.

"Mmm," she agreed with a long nod.

"Yeah. It's too bad you didn't know them in high school, Kohei," Naoko said with a slightly sympathetic smile towards him. "Being around the two of them was always so entertaining."

"Yes."

"Filled with violent outbursts, from Sakura of course, and sarcasm from the other one. And a lot of trips to the nurse's office."

Tomoyo laughed. "It doesn't seem like that relationship dynamic has changed much over the years."

"Yeah I agree completely. If it's not one, it's the other getting hurt." At Kohei's facial expression, Naoko quickly added, "But, but they love each other like brother and sister, so don't feel threatened or anything."

Kohei laughed then, albeit a little uncomfortably. "Oh I know."

"Yeah. And I mean, I think it's a good thing that Sakura has never gotten angry with you, because let me tell you, it is THE ugliest side of her. For sure! It's just scary," Naoko said plainly. "Right Tomo?"

Tomoyo, who had been studying Kohei's reactions to Naoko's words, wondered what exactly was going through his mind. "Yeah. Angry Sakura is definitely a force to be reckoned with."

"Huh."

"Though I'm sure once you're married, you'll see that at some point…"

Not entirely sure what she thought of him, Tomoyo decided to cut this little meeting short. "Anyway, I should probably continue with my grocery shopping. Good luck with the home-cooking. It was really good to meet you, Kohei. When you see Sakura again, please say hi to her for me."

"Sure. Nice meeting you too."

"Naoko, let's have dinner soon?"

Naoko grabbed her hands. "Yes! Just call me! I'm free anytime."

"Okay. Bye!"

:::

They arrived at the front gates of Tomoeda Junior High. From where they were standing, nothing seemed to have changed. The buildings, the trees, the field, the school uniforms – all were the same. There were students here and there, some in their school uniforms, others in their sports clothes.

They walked into the school and stopped in front of the field to watch a soccer game unfold.

After some time, Syaoran chuckled beside Sakura. "I like that kid," he pointed to one who was eagerly running after the soccer ball down the length of the field without stopping even for a moment. "I'd pick him for my team."

Sakura had witnessed the very first time that Syaoran had ever stepped foot on the soccer field. They were only seven at the time, but looking back now, she'd never seen him so happy. And every single time after that, watching Syaoran on the field was like seeing a person do what they were meant to do in life.

Her arms crossed, she said, "You were always amazing at soccer."

"It's easy to be good at something you love doing. I remember feeling like there was nothing else in the world I would rather do. I felt that every time I played a game."

"You know," she began thoughtfully, "I still don't fully understand why you never tried the professional athlete route. You were more than good enough. Even the coaches were urging you to pick a university known for its soccer team. And your dad never forced you to take over the business."

"It crossed my mind. For like a minute," he amended when she shot him a 'you're-totally-lying' look. He laughed. "I don't know, it wasn't a hard decision to pick my dad's business over soccer. I just wanted to play soccer, not make a career out of it. Plus, I'm sure athletes get a load of pressure and spotlight that sometimes takes the fun out of sport. And I'm not a fan of either."

"That's true. You were never the type to go in front of the class and show off."

"My dad always said, 'if you're good at something, don't brag about it or talk about it. Just show it.'"

The soccer ball began rolling fast towards them. Syaoran stepped forward and kicked it back to the boys. His kick was precise and strong and made the boys go "Wow!" Sakura clapped loudly and maybe a bit obnoxiously, which made Syaoran bonk her on the head.

He grabbed her arm and dragged her away. "Let's go."

Amused by his embarrassment, she just laughed. "Are you sure you don't want to join them, Sho?"

::: 13 years ago :::

"Good morning, everyone, and welcome to your first day in Tomoeda Junior High School. I will be your homeroom teacher this year. You can all call me Hamada-sensei. Many of you don't know each other, so our first activity before we go to the opening ceremony is to do a quick self-introduction to the person beside you. You have five minutes. Please begin!"

Twelve-year-old Sakura turned to the girl sitting beside her. Her eyes widened at how long and purple her hair was. "Wow! You're so pretty!"

The girl blushed heavily. "Thank you."

"Ah, I'm Sakura Kinomoto." She bowed. "Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!"

"I'm Tomoyo Daidouji! Yoroshiku onegaishimasu. Um, you can call me Tomo if you want."

"Ok! And you can call me Sakura," she smiled brightly. "So what kind of stuff do you like to do for fun?"

"Hmm… I really like drawing clothes, especially dresses!"

"Really? Can I see some of your drawings sometime?"

"Sure! What about you, Sakura?"

"I love desserts. My mom's teaching me how to bake now, so she's going to first teach me how to bake cookies. When I make my first batch, I'll give you some, Tomo. What's your favorite kind of cookie?"

"Really? You'll make me some?" Hearts in her eyes, Tomoyo forgot her shyness and clutched onto Sakura's hands. "You're so kind, Sakura."

Sakura merely laughed. "What's your favorite type of cookie?" She repeated.

"Oh…" she blushed, letting go and putting her hands behind her. "I like peanut butter cookies."

"Then that's what I'll make first! AH. Second. Sorry!" Sakura put her hands together in a sign of apology as she realized her mistake. "I already promised Syaoran I'd make my first batch of cookies for him and he likes white chocolate chip cookies."

"Syaoran?" Tomoyo's head slanted in question. "Is he your…boyfriend?" She whispered the last word.

"Ew no! He's a childhood friend. Over there," she pointed to the back of the class, right by the back door.

Meanwhile, oblivious to anyone else's conversation, Syaoran was enjoying his chat with his seatmate, who happened to be the navy-haired, glasses-wearing Eriol Hiiragizawa.

"I totally saw you at the elementary school meet last year," Syaoran said, pointing at him knowingly. "You won the 100m dash! I remember thinking, 'man that guy is FAST!'"

Eriol beamed, making a fist and raising it high. "I worked my butt off for months to improve my time for the 100m."

"Are you joining the track and field team in this school then?"

"Yeah, but I hear it's pretty intense. I might switch to long distance, I don't know yet. What about you Li? What are you planning to join?"

"Soccer's the only sport I ever want to do in life."

"Did I hear soccer?! Who's joining soccer?" A boy from the other side of the classroom, by the window to be exact, demanded. A small, scrawny kid wearing an oversized uniform came interrupting their conversation. "Hiro Nogawa is the name! You? You?"

"Eriol Hiiragizawa."

"Syaoran Li."

"Syaoran, you and me, I'm with you on soccer. Want to practice everyday after school until tryouts?"

"Yeah, that's an awesome idea! Are you any good?"

At that, Hiro put a hand on Syaoran's shoulder to calm him down. With an air of seriousness he said, "Let me just warn you now. I…have never played soccer before."

Both boys dropped their heads as if someone hit them over the head with a bowl.

::: 12 years ago :::

Fourteen-year-old Sakura and Tomoyo sat by a wall and watched the boys of the same grade play basketball. The two bonded over their dislike for sports and like for athletic boys. And as was often the case when they were put together, they shared stories about boys from their class, from other classes, from different sports teams.

"I think Nishihara-kun likes you, Sakuchin. He's always looking at you whenever we pass his class," Tomoyo said.

"You think so?" Sakura brought her knees to her chest. "Maybe he's looking at you Tomo. You're way prettier than me."

"Don't say that. That's not true." She pulled on Sakura's arm playfully. "See, see?! He's looking at you right now!"

Sakura looked back at the basketball court. Nishihara Kaito was looking at her. Their eyes met for longer than a second when he looked away. She rested her chin on her knee. He was okay, she thought.

But he wasn't as cute as Yanagi-kun, who was playing for the other team. Of course, Yanagi Shun was one of the most popular boys in school and everyone thought he was cute. She didn't stand a chance with him. He never looked in her direction.

"When does our class play?" Tomoyo asked.

Sakura looked up at the massive chart hanging on the wall. It detailed the entire tournament. "I think they're playing the winner of this game next."

On Sports Day, every class was divided into eight groups and each group participated in a sports tournament. Sakura and Tomoyo were in the girls' volleyball tournament, Rika in the girls' handball, Naoko in the girls' soccer, Takashi and Eriol in the boys' basketball, and Syaoran and Hiro in the boys' soccer tournament. For the whole day, every class played against each other in the different sports, and at the end of the day, a special award would be given to the class that won the most games.

"Hey guys!"

Two girls from behind came running towards Sakura and Tomoyo, slightly out of breath.

"Are they playing yet?" Naoko demanded, plopping down beside Sakura.

"No, in a few minutes. The game's almost over," Sakura answered. "We were wondering where you two went. Where'd you go?"

"We were watching the volleyball game," Rika said as she scooted between Tomoyo and Sakura. "Yamashita-kun was playing and Naoko wanted to cheer for him. Even though he's on the other team!"

"So!? He's cute!"

"Anyway, our class is in first place right now!" The four girls cheered simultaneously. Then Rika grabbed Sakura's shoulder. "Did you know the guys' final soccer game is in five minutes?"

Sakura gasped. "Oh yeah!" She scrambled to her feet.

"You guys cheer for Syaoran and Hiro," Tomoyo decided. "Rika and I will stay here and cheer for Eriol and Takashi."

Sakura pulled Rika to her feet. "Ok. Meet you guys at the field for lunch?"

"Sounds good!"

Sakura and Naoko ran out of the basketball court without another word and headed off for the soccer field. The sidelines of the green field were occupied by students of different classes and a few teachers. Sakura and Naoko found a group of their classmates carrying a huge banner of their class.

"Hey guys!"

"Hey! They're starting in a minute."

"Who's that guy beside Nogawa Hiro? He's kind of cute!"

"That's Syaoran Li, from Class 3-C."

"Syaoran Li looks so cool!"

"Yeah, he's so cute. I heard he's the best soccer player in school."

"Did you watch him play before? He's so good!"

"Does he have a girlfriend?"

"I don't think so. But he does spend a lot of time with those girls over there."

At that, Sakura and Naoko glanced behind them. The group of six girls looked away immediately and continued talking about Syaoran in quieter voices.

Surprised, Naoko asked, "Does Syaoran have a fan club now? I didn't know anybody liked him."

Also stunned by the comments, Sakura said a little uncomfortably, "Yeah I didn't know that either. I understand the soccer thing, but cute? Really?"

Then the boys from 3-A and 3-C ran to the field. Naoko and Sakura jumped to their feet with the crowd. They and their classmates cheered from the top of their lungs, "Let's go 3-C!"

The game soon began and everyone settled back down. Ten minutes went by quickly, with the ball passed back and forth between the two teams. A few goals were attempted, but no success. At the end of ten minutes, neither team had scored.

While they watched the game, Naoko left and came back several times to check on the basketball game happening inside the gym. Their class, led by Takashi's basketball skills, was apparently winning.

And then, with one minute left in the game, Syaoran stole the ball from the other team. He ran off with it. No one seemed to catch him. Sakura stopped breathing. He reached the other team's goal area.

"Let's go Syaoran!" The girls behind cheered.

That woke her up. She stood up. "NOBODY'S BEHIND YOU! KICK IT SHO!"

And almost immediately, Syaoran stopped and kicked the ball. It curved a little to the left at first, so the goalie dove towards the left, but he couldn't jump high enough and the ball hit the net at the top of the goal.

Sakura released a huge cheer as she jumped up, her fists waving high above her head. The rest of her classmates scrambled to their feet and jumped along with her. On the field, Syaoran and the team celebrated too, slapping him on the back and ruffling his hair.

The game ended twenty seconds after that, with the other team unsuccessful in scoring a goal. Sakura and the rest rushed to the field. They cheered as one big group, especially when it was announced that their class was number one in total points so far.

"Huge goal!"

"Syaoran that was awesome!"

"Play of the day!"

"Thanks," he laughed.

He went to the bench quickly to grab a towel. He was a sweaty mess and his jersey was dirty with grass stains, as per usual. Throwing the towel over his head, he looked around the field until his eyes landed on the emerald-eyed girl, who was in the middle of the crowd, jumping around happily with Naoko.

Jogging back towards the field, he called out her name. "Sakuchin."

She turned. Her eyes landing on Syaoran, she came running and then threw her arms around him. "SHO! You were amazing!"

He laughed, hugging her right back. "Thanks for the cheer!" Then he pulled away slightly. He beamed at her and said, "I needed that. Thank you!" Then he planted a noisy kiss on her cheek before running to his teammates who were still happily celebrating in the middle of the field.

Left alone, Sakura was like a statue. That was the first time Syaoran had ever kissed her on the cheek. In the 14 years they'd known each other, not once did he ever do that. Ever.

She stared after him. He didn't look affected by it. Because that was probably nothing more than just a brotherly act of affection spurred on by that huge win. Of course it was. Her mind knew that. But her heart was pounding so hard and she couldn't explain that.

"You ok?"

Sakura turned and saw Naoko giving her a questioning look.

"You look like you've seen a ghost!"

"Yeah." She blinked a few times. "Something like that."

::: Now :::

With those memories fresh in her mind, Sakura released a quiet sigh. That was the moment she started to see him as more than a friend. A year later, it developed into a serious crush without her realizing it. Then a year after that, during their second year in senior high, he had officially become her first love, though it was entirely onesided.

She looked over at Syaoran now. He was taking picture of the soccer field and the newly planted cherry blossom trees lined up along the fence. She couldn't think of a memory that didn't involve him. Not during elementary, not during junior high. Every moment of her life, he was there.

But in less than two months, she was going to start a new chapter in her life; one that wouldn't include Syaoran anymore. Instead, it would be-

"Syaoran," she called out, interrupting the thoughts that were making her apprehensive. "Syaoran."

He glanced back and squinted against the sun shining behind her. "What?"

"Maybe we should go home. I don't feel so good," she began, walking to him.

"Maybe you're still hungry," he reasoned. "I mean, we did just eat lunch but-"

"No I think we should go home," she insisted, pulling on his arm. "Let's go."

"Why?"

"Because," she repeated more firmly.

"Ok, in the beginning I didn't get why you wanted to do this trip down memory lane, but I'm actually enjoying this. I want to see our old high school." When she didn't relent, he said, "You don't want to see it? We drove all this way and we're not gonna see it?"

She pursed her lips.

"You said this is the last time you and I will ever get to spend time together, just us two. You sure you want this day to end already?"

At that she was defeated. Scowling, she crossed her arms.

He grinned triumphantly. "Let's just take one more picture here then head to the high school."

"Fine. But I'm not smiling."

Getting better at taking selfie shots, Syaoran positioned the camera in front of them. He put an arm around her shoulders and pulled her close. Just before he pressed the button, out of nowhere, impulsively, she turned to him, tiptoed, and planted a kiss on his cheek. Luckily, the photo still caught Syaoran smiling, oblivious to the stolen kiss.

Syaoran swiveled and looked at her with a baffled expression on his face. "Wha-"

Also unable to explain her own reaction, she snapped, "That's what you get for not listening to me baka!" Then she walked away in a huff.

A/N: Happy New Year! Sorry this story is going kind of slow... but sometimes that's the best way to appreciate a story, hehe. Praying for good things for everyone this new year!