Authors Note: yea…. need some more reviews so I know if people actually like this story or not…so yea…R+R
Chapter Sixteen: Mission Changed
Sage's eyes opened to a bunch of pink hair in his line of sight. Kari was still asleep, except she was snuggled up to him, and his arm was wrapped around her. Cursing silently he untangled himself from her and got up from bed. Today was their first day as "Tigers" and the only thing he was looking forward to was making it back to Wolf Mansion and taking a shower in a nice bathroom, and maybe a nap on his nice bed. He went to change in the bathroom to allow Kari a little more time to sleep before he had to take her to school.
Kari kept her eyes closed until she heard the bathroom door shut, before rolling over and opening her eyes. The bed may not have been the most comfortable, and she was defiantly on edge being in the same house as Tiger, but for some reason she was pretty content waking up next to Sage. He made her feel safe. She got up with a sigh and reached for her cell phone to call her brothers.
"Sonata! How's your morning?" Kari said in a quiet voice since she didn't know how shallow the walls were.
"You're on speaker here. I'm assuming Tiger is having you befriend Sakura today." Ryo asked, but Kari knew that Rowe, Syaoran, Tobias, and the girls were at least there.
"As far as I know. I'll fill in when I get there. School should be loads of fun."
"Just remember to be cautious. We'll have Sakura get the information from you, and see if we can't get you away for a little while. Get dressed and to school as soon as you can." Syaoran said before the phone died.
"Yea yea…bye…" She said rolling her eyes and looking toward the bathroom when Sage emerged. He was wearing a lime green shirt and khakis. "No shower this morning?" She winked at him trying to hide her giggle.
"Yea right…if I wasn't afraid cockroaches would come out of the facet I would have. I'll take one later, unless I smell bad?"He said smirking. He froze when Kari got up from the bed and walked over to him smelling him.
"Hmmm…you smell yummy." She said before turning to the bathroom and going to change as well. She emerged a few minutes later in jeans and a lime green top to match him. "I'm making sure I can find you. We'll be a matchy-matchy couple."
"Let's go down for breakfast…" Sage said taking her hand.
Wolf Mansion
After getting off the phone with Kari the whole mansion was getting ready to figure out a plan to capture Tiger. Sakura and Tomoyo were going to school with bodyguards as usual, but the guards were consisting of the Twins, Tomicka and Mei Lin at the very least. Mei Lin just hoped her teachers wouldn't make her attend class…
"I hate that she has to live there…anything could happen to her there." Ryo said in an angry tone as he paced around the living room.
"Sage is a good Wolf. He'll protect her." Syaoran said sitting with Sakura.
"Ryo knows that. Just after all the threats from Tiger, we really don't want her to get caught." Rowe said watching his brother continue to pace.
"Once they get to the school, we're going to see if we can't get Sage back here for a while to get the scoop on Tiger's plan. If we can't get him here then we'll all have to wait to hear from Kari. We have to assume that Tiger is going to have other people go with Kari to school just like we do." Wolf said stepping into the room. "Now everyone get to your respective jobs, and try to relax just a bit before everyone starts having panic attacks."
"Yes Sir. Twins…call the house as soon as you see Kari. Eriol and I will be here all day." Syaoran said before kissing Sakura goodbye. "Be safe Cherry Blossom."
"I'm always safe Little Wolf." She said winking.
Tiger Mansion
Sage and Kari made it to the kitchen in a detoured route making sure to scope out the mansion. They found Tatiana, Chaz, Tiger and a few other members in the kitchen eating breakfast. Kari had to try not to gag at the messy kitchen. Dirty dishes pilled in the sink, and counters stained with old food.
"What's for breakfast?" Kari asked sitting next to Tiger as Sage stood behind her leaning lightly against the wall.
"Chaz hasn't gone shopping yet, so whatever you can find." Tatiana said through mouth full of cereal.
"Got any coffee?" Sage asked looking around. Chaz just got up from the table and grabbed a cup and poured Sage some coffee. Sage sipped it trying not to cringe. He would be sure to get real food and coffee at the school. Maybe one of his fellow Wolf's would get him some Starbucks.
"I trust you both slept well." Tiger's voice interrupted Sage's thoughts.
"Oh yes!" Kari smiled happily. Sage could tell it was fake. "That bed was very comfy."
"I'm glad you liked it. I noticed neither of you brought many things clothes wise. I've had Tatiana take time off today to take you shopping after school. I assume Sage will be guarding you today." Tiger spoke.
"If that's ok with you Sir." Sage added looking straight at the enemy.
"I expect nothing less. I'll have Chaz go along with you. Scope out the Wolf's they have there guarding. See if you can't find a hole in which to grab the Cherry Blossom." Tiger said handing Sage a picture. "That's her. Be expected that she will be heavily guarded."
"Understood." Sage said. "I don't think Kari will have a problem befriending her."
"Definitely not. This will be fun. What exactly do you want me to do?" Kari asked smiling brightly. Tiger just smiled at her in return as Tatiana shot daggers at her.
"Find out as much as you can. Her schedule, her activities. Anything you can find out about the gang. I want you to become her best friend. If you don't think you can get her away from the rest of them for us to capture try taking this one." Tiger handed her a picture of Tomoyo. "She'll be easier for us to crack, and I have no doubt that we can trade her for the Cherry Blossom. Tatiana seems to think the girls' boyfriend is very protective, and will do anything for her."
"You got it! And when are we going shopping? Maybe I can interest the Blossom into coming along with us." Kari asked wondering how much of a window they would have.
"Right after school. We'll meet at the mall. Chaz can show you the way. By the way…who were you on the phone with this morning?" Tatiana asked smirking at the girl, then growling when Kari didn't even flinch.
"My brother. He was wondering where I was, and what I've been up to. He's very over protective. I told him I'm living with some new friends and going to a new school. He lives in Baton Rouge. He's a drug dealer." Kari said without skipping a beat. "That's not a problem is it?"
"No it's not a problem. We're very into family around here." Tiger said smiling and putting an arm around Kari's chair. "You are welcome to call him from the house phone as well."
"That's really sweet, but he gave me this phone," Kari took out her pink cell, "just to call him. Doesn't cost a thing, and it's a private number so he can't be found. I'm sure you all understand how it is."
"Absolutely, and shame on Tatiana for intruding on personal family business." Tiger said glaring at the blonde.
"No not at all. I'm sure anyone would be the same way with new faces living with them. I totally don't blame Tats! In fact I admire her for her excellent eavesdropping skills." Kari smiled.
"Sage you're very quiet." Chaz noticed, looking at the tall man standing behind the hottie.
"Sorry…I'm more of a fighter not a talker." Sage said in a monotone voice.
"Awe honey…" Kari said grabbing Sage's hand. "He'll open up more once he gets used to everyone. He's shy."
"Well you all should be off to school. I expect a full report when you get home." Tiger said getting up from the table.
Tomoeda Academe
Sakura and Tomoyo were trying to keep the Twins calm since school started in about twenty minutes, and Kari still wasn't there.
"Hey! No news is good news!" Tomoyo kept telling them.
"And you know you can't be out here when she gets here. We aren't supposed to know who she is, and no one knows if only Sage is bringing her. So go jog around the school or something." Sakura said as she heard bikes pull up. "NOW!" And with that Sakura and Tomoyo shooed the Twins away from the front of the school.
"So what will you boys be doing while I'm making friends?" Kari asked as she got off the bike.
"Walking around. I'm going to run to the warehouse for some weapons for Tiger quickly. I should be back by the time you go on lunch, and get whatever info you have for me." Chaz said not getting off his bike.
"Awe! I want to go to a warehouse! No fair…damn school!" Kari said having a fake hissy fit. "Well I guess my job is important on its own. Get me a cool toy will ya?"
"You got it babe. Have fun you two." Chaz said before riding off. Both Kari and Sage sighed in relief, before turning and strolling into the school. As soon as the doors closed they were both yanked into a deserted classroom. Rowe and Ryo stood against the wall, and Sakura, Tomoyo, Tomicka, Mei Lin, and Tobias all sitting at desks. They noticed two big members standing guard at the door.
"Brothers!" Kari said running to them and hugging them. Everyone watched the Twins visibly relax. Sage just took a seat by Tobias still watching Kari.
"You know Sage, you're with us; there's no need to keep watching her." Mei Lin said smiling at the brown haired boy. Sage blinked a couple times before turning to her.
"Sorry…force of habit. We have until lunch before Chaz gets back. Please tell me someone has coffee." Sage said running a hand down his face. "I desperately need a shower too…"
"Brian brought you coffee, and you can go use the shower in Sakura and Tomoyo's dorm. We'll talk to Kari while you go and then we'll talk to you." Tobias said as Sage walked out of the room with the dorm keys. "Kari are you alright?"
"Besides the fact that Tiger's Mansion is disgusting…yea I'm fine. I'm hungry though. They don't have any food that's not past expiration. I think I might need a tetanus shot too…" She giggled. Sakura took a muffin out of her backpack and handed it to the girl. "Oh I love you Sakura!"
"So what's Tiger's plan?" Ryo asked.
"Oh yea! He wants me to friend you and Moyo. Find loopholes in security here and capture you. Or at the very least find a way for him to get Moyo. He wants me to know everything about you. And Tatiana is taking me shopping for clothes after school. I told Tiger I'd ask if you want to come." Kari said in between bites when Sage walked in. His hair was uber curly since it was wet, and he smelled like soap.
"Want some?" Sage asked seeing her eye his coffee. She smiled sweetly and took it from him, offering him her muffin in return, which he took.
"You guys really have this couple thing down." Tomoyo noted as she videotaped everything. She watched the two blush slightly. "Kawaii!"
"Anyways…Sage what's your job?" Tobias asked.
"Guard Kari, and scope out the guards. At least that's what Tiger wants me to do." Sage said taking back his coffee. He watched Kari run out of the room, probably to go shower as well.
"They're having this kid, Chaz, stay with me here and watch Kari. He went to their warehouse for weapons. I'm more worried about Tatiana. She's not stupid that's for sure. She asked about Kari's phone call to you his morning. The walls there are very shallow." Sage said looking angry.
"Obviously you didn't get caught since you're both here." Tomicka pointed out.
"Kari fed them some bullshit about her calling her brother in Baton Rouge. Told them he's a drug dealer." Sage said, and watched Rowe take out his cell phone.
"He's telling Jamie to fill her personal file with a missing brother. Putting up a few warrants out for him, but no clue where he can be found." Ryo said waiting for his twin to get off the phone.
"As for now try to keep on Tatiana's good side. Think you can handle living there about a week, maybe two weeks?" Tobias asked. Sage shuddered.
"We'll at least need cleaning supplies for the room. That place is a trash hole." Sage said. He missed how the Twins both turned to glare at him.
"Room? As in you're sharing a room?" Ryo asked as they both inched closer to Sage.
"Hey you told me to protect her. I'm not sleeping with her or anything. Unlike Tiger, I respect women." Sage said standing his ground. Kari looked at the scene when she returned with her wet hair in a messy bun.
"You weren't supposed to tell them we're sharing a room." She whined before standing in between her brothers and Sage. "It was my idea by the way!" That stopped the Twins as they looked at her in shock. "We're supposed to be a couple. It would have looked suspicious if we had separate rooms. Will you relax already? Sage is the perfect gentleman!" With that said the first bell went off.
"Come on Sakura and Kari, we have class to get to." Tomoyo said getting up from the desk. The two girls followed her out as everyone left the classroom.
"Just keep your hands off our sister Wolf Boy." Rowe said as they left. Sage just grumbled as he followed Kari to her first class.
"I'm going to take Tomicka back to the house and fill in Xiao Lang. You two keep your distance. No need to go overprotective on her here where she's watched. Sage is her bodyguard. Let him do his job." Tobias ordered before he left with Tomicka.
Tiger
He and Tsarina had finished going through Sage and Kari's room only to find nothing.
"You really need to stop listening to Tatiana. You know she's just jealous cuz the new girl is pretty." Tsarina said as they left the room.
"You're right. Tao checked the girls' family and it does say she has a missing brother wanted on felony drug charges and money laundering. So it seems like she's clean. It's the boyfriend that bothers me. He's too quiet to be with a girl that hyper." Tiger added as they walked to the study.
"Opposites attract Tiger. And from our underground resources, that boy is one hell of a fighter. And he's not too bad to look at." Tsarina said licking her lips at the thought. "Think they can pull off the job?"
"I'm desperate at this point. Tatiana has failed so many times, and you're track record isn't too good either. Maybe some new faces will help us out." Tiger said. There came a knock at the door and Tao entered. "What is it?"
"You have a call from the girl. She's on line one." Tao added taking a seat next to Tsarina.
"Tiger here." He answered putting the phone on speaker.
"This is Kari. How is your day going?"
"You tell me."
"The Blossom is very easy to friend. All I had to do was find out that she loves cheerleading, and ask to join her squad for us to become friends. Sage says their security is very tight, and they seem to have added more guards. Those girls are wrapped up tighter than a present at Christmas."
"What does Chaz think of the situation?"
"Chaz isn't here. He left after we got here to go to the warehouse. He told us you sent him. He said he would be back by lunch, so we're expecting him in the next hour."
"I see. What else do you have for me?"
"As far as we can tell…I'm going to have to find a way to get her to leave the school with me. I think I'm going to have to earn her trust before that's a possibility."
"That's fine. Keep me posted, and thank you for the call." Tiger said.
"Any time! And don't go having fun without us!" Kari said before the line went dead.
"Either of you tell Chaz to go to the warehouse?" Tiger asked looking angry.
"No, but Tatiana went that way this morning. Think something's up?" Tsarina asked looking at Tiger.
"Let's take a drive and find out." Tiger said getting up from his chair and heading out the door.
Wolf Mansion
"Tiger is way too trusting of people. What else do we know about the Mansion?" Syaoran asked sitting in his study with Tobias and Tomicka sitting across from him, and Jamie standing in the corner.
"Apparently it's disgusting from what Sage and Kari say. They asked for cleaning supplies. I gave him some cash to get what he needs. The Twins weren't happy about them sharing a room, but I think it's smart." Tobias said levelly.
"It is smart. Couple's share a room, and the Twins should understand that. Sage is doing his job, and they should be grateful he's so dedicated. As for the uncleanliness, I'm sure they can deal. We'll make sure to get them checked up. They're doing great. Just make sure the Twins don't over do it." Syaoran added.
"I'm sure they'll calm down. Sage seems very fond of Kari. He's just as protective." Tomicka stated smiling.
"Good. Keep me posted." Syaoran said as they all left the room.
Chaz and Tatiana
"I have to be back in the next twenty minutes." Chaz said glaring at the blonde in front of him.
"Listen. You want the girl, and I want her boy. Let's work together!" Tatiana screeched.
"And how do we do that. From what I gather they've been together for years."
"Every couple has a weakness. Let's find theirs, then we can both be happy. All you have to do is make the boyfriend think she likes you, and he'll get so pissed off he'll dump her, and I'll be there to comfort him, and then she'll need someone to comfort her."
"It's not a bad plan. All right I'm in. Now I have to go." Chaz said walking toward the exit when the doors opened and Tiger walked in. "Tiger!"
"Is there something you two are planning that I should know about? I don't like secrets." Tiger grumbled walking up to the two.
"Actually it was just us trying to figure out a way to break up the happy couple. Nothing you need to worry about." Tatiana said coolly smiling.
"I don't care about your personal life, but next time, do it when you're not supposed to be on a mission. Get back to the school and watch them. She already called me to update on the situation." Tiger said before leaving.
Tomoeda Academe
"Heads up, Chaz just pulled in." Sage whispered to the girls sitting at the table. They watched a kid with black hair walk their way.
"We don't know him so we'll act like we don't, and I fill Syaoran in later." Sakura whispered. The others just nodded understanding.
"Hey Chaz!" Kari waved, as Chaz approached.
"Hey Kari, Sage. Who are your friends?" He asked playing dumb, but the group knew this and played along.
"I made some new friends. This is Sakura, Tomoyo, Rika and Naoko. Girls this is my housemate, Chaz." Kari introduced. "You're back late. Everything all right?"
"Perfect. I'm going to take Sage and walk around the grounds. I promised Big Brother we would watch you. Especially with all those gang shootings." Chaz played off. Kari gave him props he wasn't as stupid as he looked.
"Sorry girls…I always feel silly when I think about bodyguards." Kari said fake blushing. Chaz smiled at her.
"It's ok Kari. We have bodyguards too. Our boyfriends are a little over cautious." Tomoyo soothed playing along. "You boys should meet them and work out a schedule. I'm sure you all could swap secrets."
"Sounds like a good idea. Come on Chaz. Kari, don't be late to math." Sage said kissing her cheek.
"I won't. Bye!" she giggled, flushing feeling her cheek tingle.
The Girls
"Black hair, black eyes, not totally stupid…well I suppose Tiger needed at least one good member." Sakura commented. "Just incase you haven't noticed, I think Sage likes you."
"Haha! No he's just playing his part." Kari argued trying to keep the blush from her cheeks.
"Kawaii! You are so cute when you blush!" Tomoyo giggled.
"Oh my gosh! She likes him!" Rika announced.
"Shut up! I do not!" Kari said smacking the girl.
"You so do! Your brothers are gonna flip out!" Sakura laughed.
"Ok maybe I like him. Don't tell the Twins! They'll kill him…Let's just get through this mission." Kari added as they got up to walk to class.
Sage and Chaz
"So how long have you and Kari been together?" Chaz asked as casually as possible. Sage could tell something was up.
"Awhile I guess. Seems like just yesterday though." Sage said. Wasn't a total lie.
"She sure is something."
"Yea she is, and don't go getting any ideas. She's my girl…don't forget it." Sage said glaring. Chaz raised his hands in defense.
"Hey man I'm just saying. This is a crazy world we live in and that's one hot girl. What if she wanted to be with me instead of you?"
"I'd fight for her, and if she still chose you, then I would let her go. But no offence…I doubt she'd pick you." Sage said as they reached three guards standing outside the main entrance.
"Hey guys how's it going? I'm Sage and this is Chaz. Heard you were bodyguards to my girls' friends. Was wondering if we could swap ideas." Sage said smiling at his long time buddies.
"I'm TJ." Said a muscular bald guy. "That's Jonny." He pointed to a skinny brunet guy. "And that's Danny." He pointed to a built blonde next to Jonny. "You're Kari's boy? She's a nice girl."
"Yea she is. So what kind of surveillance do you all do?" Sage asked after shaking all the guys' hands.
"We have a grid system set up. We monitor all entrances and exits of the school along with cameras posted in strategic locations." TJ stated being as vague as possible knowing that Sage was with a Tiger.
"Maybe we could all work out a schedule and take turns that way all of us don't need to be here at the same time." Chaz suggested.
"Thanks for the offer, but our bosses pay us to be here. We would be happy to watch Kari for you though." Danny said not moving from his position.
"Well Sage, you and I could talk to our boss, and maybe we could take turns watching Kari. That way you would have some time to yourself." Chaz added, 'and it would give me a chance to steal her from you…' he thought.
"I'll talk it over with Kari." Sage said knowing that there was some kind of ulterior motive, but he knew that Kari was in good hands being around the Wolf Guards. "You guys don't mind if we're sticking around do you?"
"Not at all." TJ spoke. "Jonny…go grab these gentlemen some walkies." Jonny only nodded before heading down the hall.
Mei Lin
She was walking around the field as the girls' classes were in session. She had met Jonny at the end of the hall and they were walking toward her old dorm room for the walkies.
"Chaz is sneaky, and defiantly not as stupid as Tiger's normal flunkies." Jonny spoke as they entered the dorm, and headed to her non-used room.
"That's what Sakura was telling me on the way to her class. It makes me uneasy thinking that there might be brains in his gang." Mei Lin shuddered grabbing a walkie. She pulled out a screwdriver and took off the faceplate, adding a tracker into the wiring.
"You're gonna bug him while he's here?" Jonny asked raising a brow.
"Even with this much security, you never want to be relaxed and allow for a slip. I want to know where the scumbag is at all times when he's here." Mei Lin grumbled as she put the walkie-talkie back together.
"Good point. Sage is a better actor than I would have thought." Jonny added as they left.
"He likes Kari, and I think it's helping him out. As for everything with Tiger…you don't know his background but I'm personally impressed at his restraint. No Wolf is weak, and Sage continues to prove that with every gesture he makes."
"What kind of background?"
"Not my place to say. That's something you need to talk to Sage about when this is all over. For right now just keep up the act. I'll see ya'll back at the mansion." Mei Lin said as they parted ways and she went to her bike.
Kari and Sakura
"So what's the deal with that Chaz kid?" Sakura asked in a whisper during math class.
"He likes me, and Sage doesn't like that fact. He's probably the smartest person in that whole gang. He's defiantly a major threat." Kari said writing down the complicated math problem.
"I understand. Just don't let Sage get too upset with Chaz's flirting. If anything that might work to our advantage. He may let something important slip if you get in a good grace with him."
"Ew…I don't want to get any closer to him than I have to."
"Think of it as part of the mission. If you could get their security code for the mansion, or even the warehouse, that would be helping a lot. We could take down Tiger from the inside out." Sakura put in. Kari only scowled.
"They didn't make you a leader for nothing Saks…fine! But for the record…I am soooo not happy about this." Kari added. "And Saks…you suck at math."
"I know…help me please!" Sakura whined before the two broke out into giggles. "So you and Sage are sharing a room? He's very handsome." Kari's cheeks tinted remembering how she woke up in his arms, warm and comfy.
"It's only so we won't get separated in that house, and he offered to sleep on the floor, but I'm pretty sure they have bugs. We went to sleep on separate sides of the bed." Kari blushed more.
"And?! I want to know more!" Sakura squealed before getting shushed by the teacher.
"Nothing happened, but when I woke up I had his arm around my waist, and I swear I felt safe." Kari swooned.
"I think you should tell him you like him. And couples who have been together for as long as you two supposedly have don't just kiss on the cheek."
"I don't want to make him uncomfortable, and who knows what's going to happen once this mission is over. Besides…who knows if he even really likes me. You all just say that, but you don't know for sure."
"Oh Kari…you know what. Think what you want, but I can't wait for the day I get to say 'I told you so' when he proclaims his undying love for you!" Sakura said getting starry eyed.
"Haha…whatever you say Saks."
Sage
Sage was sitting outside Kari's math class watching her and Sakura giggle. He couldn't help but smile when he watched her blush at something Sakura said. He was going to be sure to get their room clean and sanitary before she returned home from her shopping trip with Tatiana. He wanted to surprise her with something that would make her stay in a good mood. He knew how uneasy she felt about them staying on Tiger property. Even if she didn't voice it he could tell by the way she would fidget.
"You know Sage…I really appreciate how dedicated you are to watching her. Even if I hate the idea of you sharing a room." Ryo said from beside him. The Twins had split up to get Sage away from Chaz for a little while to calm him down. Rowe had taken the Tiger around the school grounds for surveillance.
"I promised to protect her and that's what I'm going to do. You and Rowe having nothing to worry about. And sharing a room was my idea. If you want to kick my ass for that then do it, but I'd rather share a room where I don't have to worry about her being alone in a house full of enemies, then spend all my nights freaking out thinking of worst case scenarios." Sage said in a level tone. "If it'll make you feel better I'll sleep on the floor for the rest of the mission…after I clean it."
"You remind me of Xiao Lang…no wonder he recruited you. Listen kid…as long as you respect her then I'm fine with whatever decisions you both make. But fair warning, my sister isn't some chick you can just use. Just remember that the two of us will kill you if you hurt her." Ryo threatened. He smirked noticing how Sage didn't even flinch.
"I wouldn't hurt her. Now start talking about security cuz Chaz and Rowe are coming." Sage motioned as the two turned the corner.
"Nice peripheral vision." He whispered. "So we won't be here tomorrow. Hope you understood everything I told you.
"He giving you the security details too, Sage?" Chaz asked as they approached.
"Yea. Sounds like a bunch of mumbo-jumbo to me. How did your tour go? As boring as mine was last period?" Sage asked with a board tone. He wouldn't have minded being alone with Ryo for just a while longer so he could watch Kari without having Chaz breathing down his neck.
"Everything seems pretty basic to me. So what are your plans while Kari's shopping later?" Chaz asked as they left the Twins and headed down the hall toward the parking lot. School would be getting out in the next ten minutes.
"Cleaning the room. Kari wanted me to unpack our stuff and make the room look more like we live there, not like we're staying in a hotel. How about you?" Sage asked sitting on his bike.
"Fixing up my bike, filling Tiger in on all the stuff we learned today. By the way do you know who those guys were that we were just talking with?"
"I'm guessing you're going to tell me." Sage stated waiting for the information he already knew.
"They're called the Twins."
"Wow they're twins? Couldn't tell…how about something more in depth." Sage said sarcastically.
"Smart ass…I'm getting to that. They're part of the Lion Gang, which means Lian Tobias is still here. They're some of the best fighters and snipers. Tiger's going to be upset that they're here too."
"Well I'm sure whatever Kari found out about Sakura will lighten his mood." Sage added as Kari started toward them. Sage just smiled seeing her smile at him, but didn't miss Chaz's glare.
Kari, Sage, and Chaz
She was blushing slightly remembering her conversation with Sakura when she came up to the bikes. Chaz was glaring at Sage, and Sage was just smiling at her, making her smile more. He was so cute, and she was still pissed that she was going to have to get in good with Chaz to find out anything about Tiger.
"Hey boys! How was your day?" She asked when she reached them. She took a deep breath and decided to take some of Sakura's advice, and went to put her arms around Sage's neck. He responded automatically by putting his around her waist wondering what she was doing.
"Boring…" Sage said looking to Chaz.
"But at the same time very educational. How was your day?" Chaz asked feeling jealous seeing her hugging Sage.
"Like you said Chaz…very educational. Let's go to the mall, and I'll fill everyone in when me and Tatiana get back." She said smiling. Chaz put his helmet on and Sage waited for Kari to get on. He raised a curious brow when she didn't move.
Kari took another deep breathe before pulling Sage's head closer to hers and kissing him lightly on the lips. She quickly let go and got on behind him, missing his shocked look. He masked it quickly, putting on his helmet and com-link. He pulled out behind Chaz and waited for Syaoran's voice.
"Where are you headed now?" Syaoran asked.
"I'm going clothes shopping with Tatiana, and Sage is going back to Tiger HQ." Kari answered for him. He was grateful since he was still slightly in shock from her kiss, and his lips were still tingling.
"Are you sure you should be with Tatiana alone? I'm not sure I like the idea of you two separating."
"I agree with you Sir." Sage finally spoke. He had been debating it all day, and he really did hate leaving Kari alone. Even though he knew she could kick Tatiana's ass, he didn't want to chance her getting hurt. "Kari…I think I should stay at the mall with you."
"Not a chance. Xiao Lang…girls talk, and Tatiana has a thing for Sage. I'm sure I can use that to get some information out of her. She won't talk about much, and if Sage is there she'll spend the whole time ogling him. Trust me!" Kari pleaded as they drove into the entrance of the mall parking area.
"As much as I hate the idea…Kari has a point. She'll be fine at the mall. Sakura told me about it earlier, so I sent Alex and Mika there. Sage…can you hold your own at Tigers?"
"Not a problem. If there is one I'll be sure to get word out." Sage said stopping the bike.
"Alright. Stay safe and I'll talk to one of you tonight." Syaoran finished before the line went dead. He took off his helmet and took Kari's, strapping it to his bike.
"Have fun." He said placing a hand on her cheek, caressing it. 'Don't fall for her Sage…she's too good for you…' He chided himself.
"Will do! I love clothes!" She said getting happy. Even though she was shopping with the enemy, she was still shopping. "What are you gonna do while I'm here?"
"Stuff." He said smiling. "There's Tatiana. See you in a few hours." He finished as Tatiana reached them.
"Hey Sage! Kari…" She greeted. "Ready to get this over with? I want to get back."
"Sure. Bye guys!" Kari waved as she headed inside the mall.
Wolf Mansion
After ending the transmission with Kari and Sage, Syaoran decided to go find Sakura and spend some quality time together. When he entered his room he found her taking a nap on the bed, and decided to lay with her. As soon as his head reached the pillow he felt her shift closer to him, and wrapped his arms around his waist.
"This is a nice change. What made you decide to cuddle with me in the middle of the day?" She whispered, not opening her eyes.
"I've missed you today, and decided to come spend some time with you." He said kissing her shoulder.
"So you're going to nap with me?" She giggled softly.
"Unless you don't want me to." He chuckled back. She only cuddled closer to him, intertwining their legs.
"I'm totally for this idea of us cuddling in bed together. Now close your eyes and relax with me." She whispered again kissing his neck before drifting off to sleep. He soon found himself nodding off as well.
Kari
After hitting American Eagle and Victoria's Secret, Kari was starting to wonder how she was ever going to get Tatiana to spill information. She figured the best possible way would be to offer the bitch something she wanted as bait, but hated herself for what she was going to do.
"Sage and I are fighting." She spoke as she looked through a rack of clothes at DEBS. That seemed to catch Tatiana's attention.
"Didn't look like it from they way you were both acting outside." Tatiana shot back.
"He doesn't like people to see that we're fighting."
"So why are you telling me?"
"Because you're the reason we're fighting." Kari shot back glaring. Tatiana just raised a brow in confusion. "He's been telling me since we met you all last night that he thinks you're 'mad hot'. Starting to piss me off. I made him sleep on the floor."
"I hope you don't expect me to apologize." Tatiana smirked. "Maybe you two should take a break from each other. Chaz thinks you're hot. Why not see what other fish are in the sea?"
"I was thinking about it. I need to talk it over with Sage first, although I'm sure he won't mind a chance to experience new things. But the walls in our room are so thin, and I don't need the whole gang to hear us screaming at each other." Kari played off. "By the way…blue is totally your color." She complimented the ugly excuse of a shirt.
"Thanks…you know, if you're really serious about talking to Sage about taking a break you could use the communications room. I'll give you the pass code for it. It's a sound proof room." Tatiana stated, adding the shirt to her pile of clothes.
"I am serious. I think we need a chance to be with other people, and if we decide that we like being with each other more, then we can always get back together. But are you sure we could use the communications room? I don't want anyone to get into trouble." Kari stated adding a sage green skirt to her pile as they headed for the register.
"If anyone asks tell them I gave you the ok. The code is 20817. After we talk to Tiger, you can put your stuff away then go use the room." Tatiana said as she handed the cashier her credit card. "As long as you won't hate me for going after him once ya'll are separated."
"Of course I won't hate you! You're taking me shopping against your will, and you're being super cool about me doing this job. If anything I owe you." It wasn't a total lie, and she was getting some good info. "Let's head back to base."
Sage
He had finally finished cleaning the entire room, and the adjoining room he had thought was a closet. It actually smelled good, and the carpet was clean. It was gross how the carpet went from a burgundy red to a bright red just from a little shampooing. He had told Tiger a vague explanation of the security guards at the school, and even managed to get Tiger to agree to give him tomorrow off for himself, and letting Chaz be Kari's guard. Him and Chaz would take turns "watching Kari" so they both wouldn't have to waist their day. That gave him a chance to get back to Wolf Mansion and spend some time with his real friends.
"Oh my God! You did all this?" He heard Kari's voice from behind him, and he turned to smile at her. She looked so happy, and she had about thirty shopping bags in her hands.
"Surprise! How do you like it?" He asked taking the bags from her and placing them on the made-up bed. "I even cleaned the adjoining room so if you don't want to share a bed I can sleep in there, and that way we still have a door connecting us."
"It's fabulous! Oh and I bought you some clothes. I hope they fit." She said still awe struck at the amazing job he had done cleaning. She handed him two huge bags, which he riffled through fast still smiling before putting the clothes in the other room. "Oh we have to talk by the way. Come with me." Her voice had gone hard and he looked at her confused. Had he done something to upset her? He had no idea, but followed her down the hall to a locked door. He watched her punch in a code, and walk into the room. He quickly followed and shut the door behind him, hearing it lock.
"What's the matter? And where are we?" He asked looking around the room full of computers, phones, and radios.
"I got Tatiana to give me the code to this room. It's their communications room. I also was able to slip this in." Kari answered smiling sweetly before pulling out a scrambler. She laid on the dirty floor and scooted under the desk to the back where all the wires were before installing it and hiding it within the mess. "I told her that you and I were fighting, and that I was thinking about us taking a break cuz you kept saying how pretty you thought she was. She gave me the code to this room so we could talk in private."
"Are we fighting?" He asked masking his hurt and confusion with a void face. "And I do NOT think she's pretty."
"I know you don't, and as far as Tiger knows we are fighting. Sakura thinks that if I start flirting with Chaz then we'll be able to get some more information. More codes to secret rooms and such. I think the same concept would work for you and Tatiana." Kari stated folding her arms over her chest looking sternly back at Sage. She felt sick to her stomach knowing that on some level she was hurting him.
"If those are Sakura's orders then I will follow them, but let me ask you just one question. Why did you kiss me in the parking lot?" That question caught her off guard, and she blushed remembering how bold she had been. She turned to glare at him though. His question may have made her blush, but the tone he used while talking to her was cold and mean.
"Because I can. Have a problem with that?"
"I know that we're only pretend dating Torrent, but that doesn't mean you have permission to use me as you please." He said getting angry with her. She had no right to kiss him if it was just for the fun of it.
"For your information Aki…" If he was going to call her by her last name then she would return the rudeness, "I told Sakura I was only going to do this because she's a leader and I don't really have a choice. I'm not happy about the situation either."
"Then we better get this mission over with fast. I promised your brothers I would protect you, and I will continue to do that. But don't kiss me again." He said turning from her missing the hurt look that crossed her face. "And I guess it's good that I cleaned the extra room."
"Sage…" She stopped in her tracks seeing his eyes portraying hurt, but his face portraying anger.
"Don't Kari…just don't. You better go find Chaz and see what you can get out of him. I'll go find Tatiana and do the same." He said not looking at her. He was kicking himself mentally for thinking that she had ever even liked him. It was a mission and she was playing her part. "I'll be sure to inform Wolf tomorrow when I go over there. Chaz is going to school with you. I have the day off. Tiger wants us to take turns, and at least this will make things easier."
"What do you mean by easier? And how are you supposed to protect me if you're not going to be with me tomorrow?" She asked getting sadder by the second.
"It'll make it easier for me to get over you if I'm not around you for the day. Get my head back on the mission at hand. As for protecting you while you're at school…well you'll be surrounded by our gangs there. I'm not too worried." He finished then opened the door and left the room. She was left standing there in shock. Where was Sakura with her 'I told you so'?
"Oh Sage…I think I'm falling for you, and I hate that I have to do this…" She whispered to herself before turning on the scrambler box and leaving the room as well. The box would make it easy for Syaoran and the guys to hack into Tiger's mainframe computer.
Wolf HQ
"Hey Tobias! Have you seen Syaoran?" Jamie asked coming into the living room.
"He's taking a nap with Sakura. Alex and Mika just got home from the mall. Kari got some information. They said to check Tiger's mainframe in about five minutes." Tobias said getting out his laptop. "Looks like she installed a scrambler. I knew she was good!"
"Mei Lin told me that some Chaz kid that works for Tiger is pretty smart. What's your take on him?" Jamie asked reading the screen from over Tobias's shoulder.
"I didn't see him, but Rika said he's a threat." Tobias said. "I'm sure we'll find out more once Sage and Kari call."
"That's why I was looking for Syaoran actually. I got a txt message form Sage. Him and Kari had to alter the mission, but I guess Sage will be here tomorrow while Kari is at school to explain." Jamie added, not seeing the Twins walk into the room.
"Why wont he be at school watching her?" Rowe asked sitting down with his glaring brother. "He's supposed to be protecting her."
"He said she'll be fine at school since there will be Wolf's there to watch her. He'll pick her up from school." Jamie added watching the Twins nod in understanding.
"That's fine. We'll be looking forward to hearing what information he has for us tomorrow then." Ryo said before leaving the room.
Sage
He was sitting in his own room with the adjoining door closed. His new clothes were put away, and he was contemplating going to thank Kari for her great choices. He had decided against it for now because he was still upset. He knew she was in her room because he could hear her stereo playing. He couldn't believe he let himself get hooked on her so fast just to have it thrown in his face.
"It's my own fault," he whispered to himself looking at the ceiling from his lying position on the bed. "It's just a mission. I should have known things would be changed."
He knew there was a chance this dating thing wouldn't work out the way he had wanted. He already missed her lying next to him in bed. He shook the thought from his head. He had gone to talk to Tatiana after leaving the communication room. It hadn't gone bad, but he still hated how he would have to flirt with her for the next two weeks. It was hard enough getting her to understand that he had errands to run so he wouldn't have her following him to Wolf Mansion tomorrow. That conversation had gone crazy fast.
Flashback
"I'm sorry we can't hang out tomorrow Tatiana. Things with Kari are a little rocky, and I have to run into the city to deal with some of my other work. We can hang tomorrow after Kari and Chaz get back from school though if you would like." He said smiling as sweetly as he could.
"Maybe we can go to the movies tomorrow night since you're busy during the day, I don't want to get in the way." She had said touching his arm and trying to look sexy. He had to hold back from gagging.
"A movie would be great. I'll see you tomorrow." And with that he had retreated to his room.
End Flashback
If only he could have found a way to do this flirting while still being able to be with Kari. He knew she was too far out of his league, but he had hoped.
"Stupid me for liking a girl like that. Thinking I even had a chance to be with someone like her." He thought aloud before yelling angrily aloud at himself.
Kari
She knew Sage was mad at her for this new mission they had, but it wasn't like she could argue with a Black Wolf. Her music was blaring, like Sage's was, so she wouldn't have to think easily. She giggled to herself when she heard Sage's frustrated yell from his room. Her conversation with Chaz had gone better than she would have guessed, but she still hated that she had to do it. They had a date set up for after school tomorrow and she was only looking forward to it in hopes of getting information out of him.
"I'd rather be able to stay dating Sage…" She thought aloud as she searched her computer for a story. Jonny had asked her about Sage's mysterious past, and it made her curious. She had no idea what he was talking about, but was determined to find out, so she was googling it on her computer.
"Finally!" she said when she found a story on Sage Aki.
'12 year old only survivor after gang attack on family' read the headline. She read down the page, and found a picture of a young Sage, and knew it was what she was looking for.
'Police respond to a 911 call at Aki residence only to find Aki Satoshi (age 35) and Aki Sachiko (age 34) dead at the scene. Aki Sage, age 12, was the only survivor of the gang attack. The family, known prominently as Wolf members, were murdered in their home Friday night by the Tiger Gang. No leads as to why the boy was left alive. There's speculation that he was hiding from the attackers and not found. Also there are reports that since he was left alive, the Tiger Gang is offering rewards for his death. He had witnessed the murders of his parents, and has been taken in by the Wolf leader, Mitsuru Wolf. There is no address listed for Matsuru, and no known whereabouts for 12-year-old Aki at this time. Our hearts go out to Aki Sage.'
Kari had tears running down her cheeks as she finished reading the article. There were pictures of his parents, and even a family photo that had been taken. Her heart broke knowing that she had caused him pain, and that this mission was taking an even bigger toll on Sage than most people realized. She even wondered if Li knew how hard this was for him.
"I have to go talk to him…" She decided getting up form her bed. She was still crying but she didn't care as she opened the door to their adjoining room without knocking.
Sage and Kari
Sage looked up hearing his door open, and looked concerned seeing Kari crying.
"What's the matter?" He asked getting up from the bed and rushing to her thinking that something had happened to her brothers.
"Sage I am so sorry…" She started.
"Don't worry." He breathed thinking she was talking about the new mission. "It's just dealing with Tatiana…I'll get used to it."
"No…that's not what I meant." She said sitting on his bed.
"Then what's wrong?" He asked kneeling in front of her, whipping the tears from her face.
"I never knew how hard this mission was for you. I'm sorry about your family." She whispered not meeting his eyes. She looked up into his green pools when he raised her chin. He was smiling sadly at her.
"How did you find out about my family?" He asked sweetly.
"I read it online. I didn't know that Tiger's had killed your parents…"
"That was a long time ago. You don't have to feel sorry for me."
"I admire you Sage. I don't know how you can stand it."
"You want to know the truth…?" She only nodded yes getting lost in his gaze. "It's easy to cope with when your mind is on more important things."
"I don't understand…"
"I haven't had time to think about it because I've been busy watching you."
"Oh…but this afternoon…you got so upset with me, and even now you're being so strong."
"That's because as much as I hate the situation I'm still more worried about you then about revenge. Wolf's don't act on revenge." He whipped her tears again, still looking into her blue eyes. Before she could stop herself she moved forward and kissed him again. She waited for him to push her away, or even stop her, but he just moved his hand behind her head and kissed her back. She slid off the bed into his arms, wrapping hers around his neck, as his moved to her waist holding her close to his body.
"Kari…" He whispered when they pulled away for air. "We shouldn't do this…we have a mission."
"Shut up Sage." She whispered before pulling him into another heated kiss. She had decided that all she wanted to do was kiss him, and feel his arms around her all the time.
"What about Chaz and Tatiana?" He asked when they separated again. "We're supposed to be separated remember. It's not going to be convincing if we go around kissing."
"We'll keep it a secret. We're good at keeping secrets aren't we?" She winked placing her head on his chest. He hugged her close to him, running his hands up and down her back.
"Kari I don't want to get attached if this is going to end after the mission." Sage stated closing his eyes. He felt her giggle.
"Who said anything about this ending?" She asked looking at him again.
"I'm not going to like seeing you with Chaz either…" He said getting serious. "But officially I do want to date you. For real, not because we have to for this mission."
"Well I'm not going to like seeing you with Tatiana either, but we can't get around that. It's just a game with them, but officially, yes I want to be your girlfriend Sage." She said just as serious. "And I want you to come back to sharing a room with me."
"Alright." He agreed easily.
"I missed you lying next to me. Even if it's only been a few hours." She winked. He only chuckled in return.
"I was thinking the same thing actually." He said smiling at her. "Can I kiss you again Kari?" he blushed slightly.
"We're dating Sage…you don't have to ask." She giggled before he kissed her. She sighed in the kiss allowing her fingers to play with his curly hair. She continued to play with the curls at the base of his neck after they broke apart.
"You should get to bed. You have school tomorrow, and I have a fun filled day of being stuck with Tatiana." He said helping her up from the floor. He didn't remove his arms from her waist, but held her closer. "I still don't like this idea of you being around Chaz more than you need to."
"You're just like the Twins. You all need to relax. What could happen?" She said pulling him back to her room. "You should get to bed too."
"I was in bed if you forgot."
"I meant my bed with me. Keeping me safe." She said getting under the covers. He waited until she was in the bed before turning down the music and getting in the bed as well. He placed his arm around her waist and pulled her to his chest. He felt her relax and place her hand over his. "Good night Sage." She whispered.
"Good nigh Kari. I'll be here protecting you." He whispered back before falling asleep.
Tatiana and Chaz
"You're in a good mood." Chaz said watching Tatiana prance into the kitchen with a huge smile on her face.
"Apparently Sage thinks I'm pretty. Him and Kari are separated, and we have a date tomorrow when ya'll get back from school." She said looking through the fridge.
"So you're plan actually worked because I have a date with Kari tomorrow night too." Chaz said form the kitchen table.
"Everything is going to work out. Tiger is finally going to get the Cherry Blossom, we both got dates with the people we want. I don't see how anything could go wrong." She said sipping some water.
"Me either. For once the Tiger's are going to come out on top!" Chaz said toasting his glass in the air, Tatiana mimicking him.
Authors Note: Ok I need to know what ya'll think, so leave me some reviews. Sorry but the next couple of chapters are mostly going to be Sage and Kari, and Syaoran and Sakura. Hope you like it!