Authors Note: I look forward to many more reviews! MERRY CHRISTMAS! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Chapter Eighteen: Undercover Lover (Part Two)

"I'm sorry I couldn't be there. How can I make it up to you?" He asked, running his hands over her back.

"I'm sure I'll think of something." She spoke before her hands found his waistband. His eyes snapped opened when she went to reach inside his pants. He grabbed her hands and flipped her onto her back, pinning her beneath him.

"What are you doing?" He asked, but then he smelled the alcohol on her breath, and noticed her dilated blue eyes. "You're drunk." She looked back at him confused.

"I can't be drunk. All I had was sprite." She giggled trying to release her hands and pull him back to her.

"Your sprite wasn't just sprite." He spoke in a sad voice. He had figured out what had happened, and he was getting pissed. "Did you order your drinks?" His voice was grave and low.

"No Chaz did. I told him sprite. It tasted like sprite." She spoke, struggling to get to him. "Sage! Kiss me!" She begged. He looked away from her so he wouldn't be tempted.

"I can't. Chaz ordered you drinks with vodka in them. You're drunk, and I don't want to do anything that you might not have done sober." If he weren't so pissed he would have laughed when she shot a glare at her.

"I want you to kiss me damn it!" She said in an angry voice.

"No…because you're not in your right mind." He sighed trying to reason with her.

"Aki Sage…if you don't kiss me I'll start yelling it, and blow our cover." She threatened through clenched teeth. He glared at her before crushing his lips to hers. He decided to take a different approach. He wrapped his arms tight around her waist, to prevent her from being able to go farther than kissing, and kissed her with as much passion as he felt. Her legs were wrapped around his waist, and her fingers were in his hair holding him tight to her.

"Kari…" He murmured between kisses. He was starting to lose his control, and knew that he had to stop. This new approach wasn't going as well as he had planned. She was intoxicated, and he wasn't the kind of guy to take advantage of the situation. He cared about her.

She could feel the giddiness starting to ware away, and her bearings were returning. Sage was kissing her deeply, and she loved every minute of it. She heard him call her name between kisses and knew that he wanted to stop her from doing anything stupid. She pulled away from the kiss staring into his green eyes.

"Chaz spiked my drinks…" She whispered trying to control her breathing. She watched Sage smile and nod. "That really pisses me off." And it did, except she was so content at the moment she couldn't muster a pissed off look.

"It pisses me off too." He whispered back, moving a hand to caress her face. She smiled sweetly at him, pulling him back down to her for another kiss. This one was sweeter, and softer than the previous. Mid-make out Kari's phone started blaring from the other room, then Sage's started going off. Sage groaned, before grabbing his phone off the night stand.

"Sage here…"

"Aki…where's my sister?! TJ said she left the bar stumbling!" Rowe yelled over the phone. Kari's was still blaring in the other room.

"Tell Ryo to stop calling her. She's right here with me." He answered winking at the girl beneath him.

"Did that Chaz kid do anything? Is she alright?"

"She didn't realize she was drunk. He spiked her sprite with vodka. She's fine. As far as I can tell he hadn't tried anything." Kari shook her head with a dark look on her face making Sage frown. "Hold on Rowe…"

"He tried something in the car…" She whispered so her brother wouldn't hear her through the phone.

"What did he do?" Sage asked darkly, his mood dropping by the second.

"He tried to kiss me, and feel me up my skirt." She admitted with shame, not meeting his eyes. He smiled sweetly at her, turning her face back to his and kissing her lightly.

"It's fine." He whispered.

"Hello?!" Rowe yelled over the phone.

"Yea, everything is fine. I'll handle it." He spoke to Rowe, still caressing Kari's face.

"I want to talk to her. Put her on." Sage handed the phone over, and started kissing her collarbone and neck.

"What?" She asked, agitated, into the phone.

"What happened? I know something happened…" Rowe and Ryo both said at the same time.

"Don't worry about it. Sage is going to take care of it." She answered rolling her eyes at her brothers.

"I don't care what you think Aki will do. I want to know what happened." Rowe grumbled.

"Chaz tried to kiss me in the car. It was nothing. Now both of you calm down. I'll see you tomorrow if we can manage it." Kari spoke before hanging up on her brothers. She tossed the phone to the end of the bed and decided to just enjoy the feel of Sage's lips on her skin.

"You should get some sleep." He murmured, still placing butterfly kisses along her neck. She ran her fingers over his bare chest and abs, loving the feel of his toned muscles.

"As long as I get to stay here with you." She said, stifling a yawn. Of course he mentions sleep and she suddenly feels tired.

"Whatever you want." He smiled. He rolled off her and brought her to his chest, pulling the covers over her. "Don't bitch about it being warm cuz once that alcohol leaves your system you're going to be cold."

"That's what you're for. To keep me warm." She smiled, nuzzling her head in his chest.

"Go to sleep sweetheart." He whispered placing a kiss on her head. She only nodded before closing her eyes.

Wolf Mansion

The Twins were fuming after getting off the phone with Kari and Sage.

"This is why he's not good enough for her Ryo. He doesn't care that Chaz tried something." Rowe yelled.

"You don't know what his reaction was. You heard him talk on the phone. For all you know he could be going to pummel the asshole right now." Ryo said with arms crossed.

"I bet he just brushed it aside. He doesn't care."

"I assure you brother that he does care. He was trained by Wolf…he's just like Syaoran. They're very good at hiding their emotions. Just try to calm down." Ryo said trying to leave his twins room.

"After this mission is over we're shipping Kari some place far from Tigers, and that Aki kid." Rowe said making his brother turn and glare.

"Do you think that's fair to her? We don't know how she feels about Sage. She could be just as in love with him as he is with her." Ryo defended. In truth he hated the thought of Kari falling in love so young, but it was her life. It was funny how just a few days ago he would have been agreeing with his twin about this.

"I don't like him." Rowe said, stubbornly.

"That's because Kari's our sister, and we're her older brothers. We're not supposed to like the guys that she does. You liked him before the mission."

"That's because he wasn't dating my little sister. Don't get me wrong…he's a good Wolf, but I don't like him as her boyfriend. He doesn't deserve to be with her."

"And why not?" Ryo asked. He was mad because Rowe was saying what he had said during his sparring match. All he could do was picture that boys anguished face as he admitted, himself, that he didn't think he was good enough.

"She's our sister. She deserves someone that can take care of her, love her and protect her. He hasn't proved that he can do that to me."

"Give the kid a chance. Mei Lin was telling me about his past. He's been through a lot. Just promise me that if they come over tomorrow you'll be nice." Rowe looked confused but reluctantly agreed. Ryo left his twins room quickly. Rowe went to his computer to try and find out more about Sage Aki.

Chaz and Tatiana

"So how was your date?" Chaz asked the next morning smiling at the blond.

"Fabulous! I even got a kiss!" She said happily. "And yours?"

"Almost fabulous." He chuckled. "I got her pretty drunk, but I still wasn't able to get a kiss. I'm hopping for better next date."

"I'm hoping to get farther than a kiss on my next date!" She winked. Just then Tiger and Sage walked in the room through separate doors.

"Good morning lady and gentlemen." Tiger said sitting at the table.

"Sir would you like some coffee?" Sage asked from the counter.

"Please. Two sugar, no cream." Tiger said. Sage brought him his cup and sat next to him.

"Sir…I know Kari and I aren't together anymore, but my ex-boss that helped out with the Twins wants us to meet up with him for a while today. If it's alright with you, we really should go see him." Sage said not breaking eye contact.

"Absolutely. I'm surprised you even want to go seeing how you came back yesterday." He said looking serious.

"I promise it will be much worse if I don't go. Besides, he doesn't do any physical injuries when women are present, and he's very fond of Kari because of her brother. Unless you have something planned for us today." Sage continued.

"No…I can't think of anything. Did you want to take Chaz or Tatiana with you?" Both looked at him smiling, and Tatiana was about to jump out of her seat with joy.

"I wish I could. He doesn't like new faces unless he has for warning. I'll talk to him about it, and maybe I can set something up for everyone to meet him. He likes to know who he's 'helping out'…if you know what I mean." Sage said gravely, as Kari walked in smiling.

"Morning! What's up?" She asked knowing full well she had interrupted their conversation.

"Good morning Kari." Chaz said kissing her cheek.

"I'd love to meet your ex-boss. He sounds like someone I would get along with. You two have fun." Tiger said getting up to leave the room.

"Where are we going?" She said partial glaring at Sage. This was all part of the act.

"Tatsuya wants to see us. He was angry that you weren't with me when I went yesterday." Sage said glaring back. He smirked watching her face pale. She was such a good actress.

"Tat-Tatsuya?!" She squeaked. "When did he want us there?"

"As soon as possible. He called me this morning. We should get going as soon as you're ready." He spoke standing at the door.

"I'm ready. Let's get going." Kari said walking with him toward the garage to get their bike. "I'll see you later Chaz!" She yelled before leaving.

Wolf Mansion

Sage and Kari pulled up to the house about thirty minutes after leaving Tigers'. Kari was so excited to be home she could hardly contain herself. She practically jumped off the bike before Sage could stop it fully, and rushed to the front door.

"Hello?! Ryo? Rowe? Anyone?!" She yelled after opening the front door. She smiled brightly seeing her brothers on the couch watching TV. She ran to them and hugged them tightly. They hugged her back just as tight smiling for once. "Where is everyone?"

"Syaoran and Sakura are enjoying a swim in the pool with Tomicka and Tobias. Mei Lin and Jamie are spending 'personal time' together in their room." Rowe answered smiling at his sister. His smile faltered when Sage walked into the room, staring at Kari with a warm smile.

"Hey Sage…thanks for bringing her over. And thanks for keeping her safe." Rowe said not meeting Sage's eyes. Sage raised a confused brow, and then looked at Ryo.

"No problem?" He said wondering why Rowe was suddenly being super nice to him. Rowe walked over to him and pulled him aside while Kari hugged Ryo again.

"I'm sorry for how me and Ryo have been acting. We just worry about her. You're a good guy, and you're doing a great job watching her." Rowe said running a hand through his hair.

"Why are you suddenly being so nice? Yesterday you could have given two shits if I did a great job or not…what's going on?" Sage asked crossing his arms over his chest.

"I've just realized that we have been being unnecessarily harsh to you, and you didn't deserve it." Ryo added coming up with Kari. That's when it clicked to Sage. They had found the same article Kari had. He chuckled shaking his head. He didn't know if he was pissed off or relieved with the situation.

"Who gave you the idea to look up my history?" He asked as Kari came to wrap her arms around his torso looking sad. She knew that he was upset. He hugged her to him still looking at the Twins waiting for them to answer.

"Mei Lin mentioned something about us adding more stress to your already over stressful mission, and we didn't understand what she meant. We took the liberty to look it up. We didn't realize…" Rowe started not knowing how to finish his sentence.

"Don't worry about it. Just…don't go pitying me for it." Sage said, looking down at Kari with a smile.

"Ha! I see it now Ryo…damn you were right…" Rowe grumbled.

"See what?" Kari asked looking as confused as Sage.

"Nothing sis! Let's go find Tobias and the others." Ryo said dragging his brother along. Sage and Kari just shrugged and followed.

Pool

Sakura and Syaoran were playing a game of 'Chicken' against Tomicka and Tobias when the group walked in. Tomoyo was taping from a sun chair with Eriol sitting behind her.

"Say hi to the camera!" Tomoyo said taping Kari and Sage holding hands with the Twins smiling behind them. Kari waved and blew a kiss, and Sage just smiled. The Twins put bunny ears up behind them before running to the other side of the pool before Kari could chase them.

"We have a bunch of information if you're interested." Sage said watching Sakura take down Tomicka and win the game.

"Now that we've lost I think that's a wonderful idea." Tomicka said after resurfacing. Tobias helped her out of the pool, and everyone dried off.

"What do you have for us?" Syaoran asked getting down to business as Sakura sat in his lap. Sage took out a paper from his cargo pocket and handed it to him.

"Gang bank account numbers, security pass codes, and Tiger's everyday schedule." Sage said, as Sakura and Syaoran looked it over before passing it around. Kari handed them one as well.

"Tsarina's schedule, private hideout addresses, warehouse pass codes, and shipping locations with shipment times." Kari smiled putting her head on Sage's shoulder. She was so glad to be home around her family and friends. She could finally relax. Syaoran, Eriol, and Tobias were all smirking after reading the papers.

"You both did great." Eriol said adjusting his glasses.

"Thank you sir." Sage said, glad that he hadn't had to suffer through Tatiana's suffocation for nothing. Kari giggled.

"You are too formal Sage. We've had you with us for how long?" Syaoran asked smirking at his friend he considered to be like a little brother.

"Sorry…blame Wolf. You know how he is." Sage said blushing slightly. They all nodded.

"So now all we have to do is come up with a plan to get Tiger." Tobias said trying to think.

"Actually I think I may have an idea." Sage spoke up. He was smiling at Kari who was smiling back.

"Do tell!" Sakura and Tomoyo said together then broke out in giggles. Mei Lin and Jamie walked in just then wondering why Sakura and Tomoyo were laughing.

"What's going on?" Mei Lin asked sitting between Tomicka and Tomoyo.

"Sage was just about to inform us of a plan he has to get Tiger." Ryo spoke, rolling his eyes at the female Wolfs laughing like hyenas.

"Oh good! We haven't missed anything important then." Mei Lin said looking at Sage.

"We told Tiger that we had to go see Sage's ex-mob boss. That's how we were able to come here." Kari started for him.

"After the beating I got from Ryo he was curious as to why I would even go. I fed him some bullshit, but the point is that Tiger is interested in meeting my ex-boss." Sage said.

"Brilliant!" Eriol spoke understanding the idea.

"So we have you take him to a place of our choice, thinking he's going to meet this mob boss, and BAM!" Rowe said punching his fist.

"It's a good idea." Jamie spoke up after thinking it over. "But when would we do it? I'm sure Tiger knows some mob people himself. What name did you give him so I can make sure Akashi puts it in the system?"

"Tatsuya…" Sage answered simply. Jamie took out his cell calling Akashi and letting him know.

"Ok…Akashi says that it would have to happen in a couple days. Three at the least. We need to plan it out, get guys in there to set up, and he says that when mob bosses meet new people, gang leaders or not, they like to take time to scope them out before agreeing." Jamie said after hanging up the phone.

"So we'll plan it for the Wednesday after next Wednesday. That gives us a week and four days to hack their computer, get people to follow Tiger and Tsarina around, and make sure that if this does backfire, you and Kari don't get found out. We want to make sure there's room for error." Syaoran stated looking serious. "If something were to go wrong we want you two to be able to trick Tiger into thinking that you're still one of them. We can't let him know you're with us until we're sure he can't get away."

"Right." Sage and Kari said together.

"Now that business is out of the way. How are you both? TJ said Kari left the bar a little tipsy last night." Tobias said looking at his member, and the Wolf boy protecting her.

"Chaz must have slipped vodka into my drink without my knowledge." Kari said almost annoyed.

"Did he do anything else?" Syaoran asked angrily

"Nothing that Sage can't handle." She spoke not meeting the Wolf leaders' eyes.

"Kari…sweaty…you can tell us." Sakura said sweetly when she noticed how embarrassed Kari had become. Sage held her closer, encouraging her to share what happened with their family and friends.

"Well, on the drive home I was so busy thinking about Sage, and getting away from Chaz…" She started.

"…and you didn't know you were drunk…" Sage added. She nodded in agreement.

"…that I hadn't realized that he had started feeling me up my skirt until he leaned over to try and kiss me." She said looking at her hands. Sage reached over with his free hand, taking her small ones into his.

"That bastard is lucky we're in the middle of a mission, or else I'd kick his teeth in!" Mei Lin said in rage.

"So what are you going to do about him?" Syaoran asked Kari, ignoring Mei Lin.

"I'm going to tell him to fuck off in the nicest way possible. Unless you need more information out of him." Kari said hoping she was done 'flirting' with the scumbag.

"No I think we have all we need." Tobias said, hating himself for putting one of his female members in a position like this. He watched Kari sigh, knowing that she was relieved.

"I was planning on going up to him later today after we get back and tell him to leave her alone. I'll let him know we got back together, and that she's off limits." Sage said, and then kissed her temple. He cringed listening to the other girls 'awwww' at his public display.

"How long before you have to go back?" Tomoyo asked. Sage looked at his watch noticing that they had only been gone an hour, and smiled.

"We have at least another hour before we have to leave." Sage said, happy that they would get a chance to relax.

"Great! Kari lets go upstairs and hang out!" Sakura said happily, pulling the pink-haired girl out of Sage's arms.

"I'm going to take Sage to see Wolf. We'll be back in a few minutes." Syaoran said, getting up with Sage and walking out of the room. Once out of the room, Tomicka turned to the Twins.

"I'm very proud of you boys." She said smiling.

"Why?" The Twins asked at once.

"You weren't glaring at Sage for kissing your sister." Mei Lin noticed as well.

"He's in love with her. You do realize that don't you?" Jamie asked smirking.

"Oh we know." Ryo said, waiting for Rowe to growl or something, but he did nothing. "Impressive Rowe! You're ok with this?"

"I don't really have a choice. She seems to be just as in love with him." Rowe said with a defeated look.

"The funny part is that they don't realize they're in love with each other." Eriol said with a slight chuckle.

"Don't worry Eriol. I'm sure they'll figure it out eventually." Tobias said looking at his members for assurance.

"If they don't figure it out on their own, then we'll make sure they do. Right Ryo?" Everyone was baffled at Rowe's attitude.

"That's right Rowe!" Ryo said high-fifing his twin. They all looked to Eriol when he started laughing.

"What's so funny?" Jamie asked.

"I've figured out why they're so okay with Kari loving Sage. Honestly, didn't he tell you not to pity him?" Eriol asked looking amused.

"Ohhhh…Eriol's right guys. Sage would be pissed if he knew you pitied him." Jamie agreed. Tobias just shook his head at his members.

"Twins…don't do this just because you feel sorry for him." Tobias stated closing his eyes.

"We're not." Rowe said getting angry. "Honestly, we're doing this more for Kari. We want her to be happy."

"Yea, and we know that Sage can protect her. She obviously feels safe with him." Ryo agreed. The boys just shook their heads in disbelief. At least the Twins wouldn't be freaking out anymore.

Sage and Syaoran

"Uncle Wolf isn't home today…what's going on Syaoran?" Sage asked as they walked through the back gardens.

"I wanted to get you out here to talk. Sakura and the girls are worried that this mission is affecting you. I know that Mei Lin's big mouth has the whole house knowing about your parents. I want you to honestly tell me how you're doing." Syaoran said getting serious. Sage sat on a nearby bench, and Syaoran joined him.

"Not as bad as I thought I was going to be." Sage admitted. "Mostly because of Kari. She keeps my mind off everything. She keeps me calm."

"And when she's not around?" Syaoran asked smiling at the boy.

"When she's not around I'm constantly thinking about her. Really Xiao Lang…I know you and Uncle are worried, but I don't have time to think about the past. I'm too worried about Kari to care. You gave me a job, and you've always taught me to do my job correctly." Sage said seriously.

"Are you in love with her?" Syaoran asked already knowing the answer.

"I care about her a lot, but I think it's too early to be in love with her. You sound like Uncle." Sage said smirking.

"Think what you want Sage, but don't realize it before it's too late. What have I always told you about emotions?"

"Never let people see them, but live every day with no regrets." Sage quoted almost exactly.

"You are a master of hiding your emotions. That makes you a great Wolf. But don't hide them from people you care about. Don't ever be afraid of letting those you trust know your feelings. It may save your life some day." Syaoran said as serious as he could. He didn't want Sage to miss out on love like he almost had.

"Is that why you're so sappy with Saks?" Sage poked fun. Syaoran grinned.

"Yes. If it wasn't for her I would probably be dead by now. She keeps me from doing anything reckless. Just think about how you feel about Kari, and don't worry about the Twins' retaliation. They should know better."

"It's fine. I promise not to let them affect any decision I make concerning my and Kari's relationship. But to be honest with you, I don't think I deserve her…she's so full of life and she's gorgeous. Why would she want to be with a guy like me?" Sage asked, running his hand down his face.

"Sage…she would be lucky to have the chance to be with you. You're a great Wolf, a great fighter, and you're smart. No Wolf is ugly, so don't go thinking you're below her standards on looks."

"I have no family. I have nothing to offer her." Sage said through clenched teeth. Syaoran smacked him upside the head.

"You have family, and you know it. I'm sorry we can't replace your parents, but I think of you as my brother. And you have plenty to offer her. You're a Wolf, and she should be so lucky. So stop this bullshit. Seriously…I don't know how you don't see that you're in love with her…" Syaoran glared. "Come on… let's go find the guys." Syaoran finished dragging Sage from the bench in a headlock.

Tiger

"I tell you Sir…I don't know how he did it, but Tatsuya Yutaka is one of the biggest mob bosses in the underworld. Only few have actually met him and lived to tell the tale. Apparently Sage Gato and Kari Zen were two of his highest-ranking hit men. The only reason they're even alive is because Tatsuya admires them, and apparently Sage and Kari saved his daughter from some other mob. He owed them a favor." Tao stated reading an underworld blog.

"I like these two more and more. Does it say why they decided to leave?" Tiger asked reading over Tao's shoulder.

"No, but according to speculation…they were engaged and wanted to start a family. They didn't want to worry about hits being sent out against them." Tao read in amazement. "I have sooo much more respect for those two."

"You said they were engaged?" Tatiana asked walking into the room after overhearing the conversation. She was not happy about hearing it.

"Well, says that, 'soon after leaving Tatsuya Yutaka, Zen and Gato joined a local gang, where they found interest in other people, they called off the engagement.' It also suggests that the only reason they even got together in the first place was because they had to work together for Tatsuya for so long it was natural for some feelings to develop." Tao read, impressed. Tiger was smiling and Tatiana was fuming.

"I'm a lucky guy. Li's not going to know what hit him. With those two on our side we'll take over Tokyo and finally be rid of Wolf and his annoying pups." Tiger said laughing evilly.

"Tao…do you think there's a chance they'll get back together?" Tatiana asked in a worried voice.

"I don't know Tats…seems they have been working together for a long long time…like four or five years. I wouldn't get your hopes up about permanently dating Sage." Tao said waiting for her to start her tantrum.

"Don't even think about doing something to get rid of Kari either. We need her." Tiger said before she started.

The Girls

"You know Rika, it's a good thing Chaz doesn't know many people in our gang cuz I recognized you and Alex basically stalking me as soon as you came in the club last night." Kari said as she braided Sakura's hair. Rika giggled from the bed while Naoko braided her hair.

"We were worried. Alex was getting txt messages every five minutes from your brothers." Rika said.

"Are you sure you're ok Kari?" Mei Lin asked with a partial glare. She did not like how the mission was progressing.

"I'm fine really. Sage was so mad when he found out I was drunk." She blushed slightly as she tied off Sakura's hair. "I was so embarrassed."

"What exactly did you do when you got back from the club?" Tomicka asked sitting next to the girl, watching as she blushed more.

"I kind of attacked Sage." She said giggling slightly. "He had to hold me down so I would stop trying to get his PJ pants off."

"He's not the type of guy to take advantage of the situation." Mei Lin admitted.

"I figured that. Not saying that I would have minded though…" Kari said rolling her eyes.

"If you want to sleep with Sage, then do it." Tomoyo said taping the girls. "But do it when you're sober. He won't let you do anything if he thinks your drunk."

"And it's not something you have to rush into either." Sakura said turning to look at the girl.

"I know…" Kari said sighing.

"You shouldn't take that step until you know how you really feel about him." Sakura said putting a reassuring hand on Kari's shoulder.

"Kura…she's in love with him. It's so obvious!" Tomoyo said getting starry eyed.

"I am not in love with Sage." Kari said defensively.

"Do you miss him right now?" Tomicka asked crossing her arms. Kari only nodded.

"Do you think about him all the time, even when he's in the same room as you?" Mei Lin asked with her hands on her hips. Kari nodded again.

"Do his caresses make you feel tingly?" Rika asked smiling brightly. Kari nodded, rolling her eyes.

"Do his kisses make you weak?" Sakura asked waiting for Kari to get the point. Kari nodded waiting for them to make their point.

"And you don't think you're in love with him?" Naoko asked, realizing that Kari was almost as dense as Sakura could be.

"I am not…in love…with Sage…" She said thinking about what they were saying when her eyes widened. "Holy Cow! I am!" She squeaked. The girls only giggled. "What do I do? What if he doesn't feel the same way?" She started going into hysterics.

"Kari…you are as dense as Sakura." Tomoyo said through giggles.

"Sage is in love with you too." Mei Lin pointed out.

"He cares about me, but I don't think he's in love with me." Kari stated.

"Toby's told me that when Ryo was fighting Sage, Sage was literally in tears because he doesn't think he's good enough for you. That boy is totally in love with you!" Tomicka agreed with the other girls.

"But what if you're wrong? What if I say something and he rejects me?" Kari asked looking down at her hands.

"If you're that worried about telling him, then you'll have to just be patient and wait for him to tell you." Sakura said sweetly.

"Yea! Wait for him to figure out he's in love with you, and he'll tell you, and it'll be so romantic!" Tomoyo said all giddy. The others just rolled their eyes.

"You girls are right. I'll just wait for him to tell me his feelings. I don't want to scare him away." Kari said blushing.

"Everything will be alright Kari." Naoko said, standing from the bed.

"Yea, and we should get down stairs. You have to leave soon." Rika said looping arms with Kari and Naoko.

Down Stairs

"So we'll call you with the details of when and where to bring Tiger on Wednesday night." Syaoran said when the two were ready to leave.

"What about Chaz and Tatiana?" Kari asked looking from her leader to the Wolf leader.

"Oh we both figured that one out." Ryo stated looking at his twin.

"Tell them that Kari told you about what happened at the meeting, and that you've realized that you care for her more than you thought, and that you two are going to try and make it work." Rowe finished for his brother.

"Oh and just so you wont be caught off guard…I put on the underworld blog that you two used to be engaged." Akashi said smiling. The two's mouths dropped open in shock.

"You what!?" Sage asked taking a step toward the Dragon. Kari held him back trying not to giggle.

"It's fine Sage!" She said while pulling him toward the bike. "Akashi just made it easier for us to fool Chaz and Tatiana. Come on."

"You're lucky we're on a time crunch. Next time I see you I'll kick your ass, Akashi." Sage said getting on the bike with Kari behind him. Akashi just chuckled.

"I'm sure you'll thank him some day Aki." Jamie said as they all waved. "Soo…what did Kari say to you girls?" He asked turning to Mei Lin.

"She's totally in love with him." Sakura sighed, hugging Syaoran. She looked to the Twins, waiting for some kind of reaction.

"Damn…I knew it. You owe me $5 Rowe." Ryo said as Rowe took out the cash.

"That's it? No screaming or blowing up cuz your sister is in love with Sage?" Mei Lin asked raising a brow.

"Na, we're cool with it. As long as she's happy, and he doesn't hurt her." Ryo added. The group just shook their heads at the Twins.

"You two are weird." Mika said as they all headed inside the house to start planning.

Tiger

They had everything planned out for when they walked in. Sage and Kari got off the bike, knowing that both Tiger and Tsarina would be in the living room watching the news. They only hopped that Chaz and Tatiana would be there as well. Kari walked in first, being followed by Sage, who put and angry look on his face. As expected, Tiger and Tsarina were on the couch. Tatiana was in a chair with a leg swung over the arm, and Chaz was just walking into the room. Sage brushed past Kari and walked straight up to Chaz, and punched him in the face.

"You fucking asshole!" Sage yelled going to punch Chaz again when Kari grabbed his arm to hold him back, and Tatiana went down to Chaz to help him up.

"What's going on?" Tiger asked getting up from his seat as well. Sage 'struggled' against Kari's hold. He defiantly didn't mind taking some of his stress out on the Tiger in front of him.

"Chaz spiked Kari's drinks last night and tried to take advantage of her in the car on the way home." Sage growled. Tiger turned to glare at his member.

"Is what he says true Chaz?" Tiger asked looking angry. The last thing he wanted was to piss off Sage, since he was so well connected in the underworld. Tiger was counting on Sage and Kari to take down that damn Little Wolf.

"Kind of…I stopped though!" He defended.

"Yea, after she screamed at you. I don't know why she didn't punch you right then." Sage seethed.

"See this is why I didn't want to say anything." Kari said looking upset. Tiger raised a brow. "Tatsuya made me tell him. He's not someone you can really say no to. Sage had us leave early so he could talk to Chaz. And you said talk! Not punch!"

"He's lucky it's me punching him, and not Tatsuya." Sage said in a growl.

"Your friend, Tatsuya, isn't going to take any action against Chaz is he?" Tsarina asked looking worried.

"No. I told him I'd handle it." Sage said calming down, but still glaring at Chaz. "You stay away from her."

"Hey man…she's not your girlfriend. Let her make her own decisions." Chaz said from half behind Tatiana.

"Actually, I am." Kari spoke placing her hand in Sage's. "Sorry Tatiana, I know you really like Sage, but we've decided that we're going to try our relationship again."

"You're not getting engaged again are you?" Tatiana asked trying to hide her anger.

"No…we have to get used to this life and see if this will work out before we talk engagement again." Sage said looking to Kari.

"I'm happy for you both. It probably wouldn't have worked out between us anyways." Tatiana waved off. "You're too shy for me." Sage just chuckled.

"Thanks Tatiana. That's sweet of you." Sage said smiling at her.

"And what does Tatsuya think of everything?" Tiger asked.

"He wants to meet you. Well all of you actually. He's going to give me details in a couple days, but it's set up for a week from Wednesday night if that's ok with you." Sage said getting into business mode.

"It would be our honor to meet with him. I'll let Tao know." Tsarina answered for Tiger before leaving the room, smiling.

"Yes, an honor indeed. You'll let me know." Tiger said following Tsarina out. Sage just glared at Chaz before leading Kari up the stairs.

Sage and Kari

"I think you took it a little far by punching him." Kari said looking mad.

"I don't think I took it far enough." Sage said looking just as mad. "Why are you mad about it? Did you want to keep fake dating that guy and give him another chance?" Kari looked shocked and angry.

"You know that's not what I meant. I just don't think you should have punched him." Kari said trying to make sense of what was going on.

"You're right. I shouldn't have punched him." She smiled listening to him agree. "You should have punched him last night when it happened." Her face fell.

"As if you forgot…I wasn't in my right mind last night. All I kept thinking about was seeing you." She said getting angrier.

"Why?" Sage asked in a soft voice. It caught her off guard.

"Because you're my boyfriend."

"Is that the only reason you were thinking about me?" He asked bringing her into his arms. She looked confused as she brought her arms up to his shoulders.

"Isn't that reason enough?" She asked back feeling herself getting breathless just being in his presence. She now understood what the girls were talking about, and she was kicking herself for not noticing it sooner.

"Kari…I…" He was looking in her eyes getting lost. All anger he felt disappeared with her there in his arms. Everything his Uncle and Syaoran had said kept running thought his mind. 'Am I really in love with her? I care about her. I enjoy her company. Could I possibly be in love with her this fast?'

"Sage?" she was wondering what he wanted to say. Her heart seemed to be beating out of her chest. Instead of saying anything he just brought her lips to his in a kiss. He brought his hands down her back to her butt before lifting her off the ground. Her legs wrapped around his waist as she kissed him deeply. He gently placed her on the bed, running one hand up and down her leg, and the other one holding her waist.

"Kari…this isn't going any farther." He warned breathlessly. As much as he wanted her, he couldn't allow himself to go farther without figuring out how he really felt. He wanted to make sure he really loved her, and that he didn't just lust after her.

"Whatever…just kiss me." She said pulling him back down. He groaned when she grinded against him. His shaky hands gripped her hips. He heard her moan when she was able to do it again. Her hands had made it to the hem of his shirt, where she pulled it up and over his head. "You have a great body." She whispered in his ear, her fingers feeling every muscle. Her touch made him shiver and groan. He shut his eyes trying to ignore the feel of her body beneath him.

"You're making it difficult for me…" He whispered, placing kisses on her neck. His hand had found its way under her shirt, trailing up to her breast. She gasped feeling his hands on her body.

"How long do you think you can resist me?" She whispered, part moaned. She knew she loved him, but did he really love her like the girls had said?

"That's my problem…I can't." He spoke capturing her lips again. Her fingers moved to his hair, holding his lips to hers.

"What are your feelings for me?" She asked between kisses. They broke apart, breathing heavily. She could tell that he was trying to decipher his feelings for her.

"I care about you." He answered, looking into her eyes. "I don't know…" He admitted. She smiled at him giving him a soft kiss.

"Until you know for sure how you feel about me, then I agree that this shouldn't go any farther." She said looking at the relief on his face.

"Don't be offended. Please…" He begged, knowing that she was probably upset with him for this. She only smiled sweetly at him.

"I'm not offended. I'm impressed and flattered." She spoke caressing his cheek. "I know you won't take advantage of me, and I'm glad that you want to wait to do anything until you know how you feel."

"I don't want you to think I'm using you." He spoke laying his head on her chest, waiting for his heart rate to slow down.

"This proves to me that you're not." She spoke combing her fingers through his curls. "Get some sleep Sage." She whispered, smiling at her boyfriend. 'I love you Sage' she thought as she closed her eyes.

"Goodnight Sweetheart." He whispered. She looked at him with love in her eyes as she watched him sleep.

Authors Note: Another end to another chappie!