Business Arrangement
Written by Dknight02
E-mail: [email protected] AIM: xDani029x
A/N: This is an A/U fic of CCS. Read and review, please. No flames.
Disclaimer: The story line is mine. Steal it and I'll hunt you down.
***
"I'm what, with who?" Syaoran asked again with disbelief.
"Syaoran! If I have to repeat myself, I'm gonna slap you silly! Listen carefully. You're going to be married with someone of the name Kinomoto! Hasn't Auntie Yelan told you yet?" Meilin asked
His cold amber eyes stared into the fire. "No, she has not spoken to me about any betrothals."
Meilin looked thoughtful for a moment and said, "I wonder why she would be secretive about this. I was walking over to bring Auntie Yelan a cup of tea. Unfortunately she was having a private meeting and the door was open slightly. I overheard them talking about you and a betrothal. I'm sorry, Syaoran."
"Geez! I'm fine, Meilin. Don't pity me, that's the last thing I need. I have this corporation to look after and I don't want to be a baby- sitter. A wife, what do I need a wife for? Running corporations does not require a wife. I'm going to speak to mother about this," he said gruffly.
'Poor Syaoran. Now he has to get married to someone he does not know. I hope I do not have to do that. I wish I married for love, not for conviences. I am sorry for not telling you the whole truth. I am sorry,' she thought to herself as he walked out of the room.
***
"What is the meaning of this, Syaoran?" Yelan asked with wide eyes. She had never seen her son in such a disturbing manner. His eyes were darting back and forth between her and her phone.
"There is much meaning of this! Mother, how could you not tell me that I was betrothed? Who am I betrothed to, Mother? Why couldn't you tell me? Did you even bother to think of how I would feel?" he roared at the unyielding figure.
"For a man of twenty-seven years of age, I would say you are acting quite childish. Do you think I am doing this for myself? I am doing this for us. Haven't you realized our corporation is slowly withering? We need help and we need it now. A good friend of mine, Kinimoto Fujitaka, has made an arrangement with me. I am sure he has heard a great deal of you. If you two shall marry, our corporations shall merge together. I know his is growing to be on top of the list," she commented thoughtfully.
He leaned foreward to grab onto the chair. His knuckles turned white. "I'm still going out with Tiffani!" he exclaimed. His mother shook her head sadly.
"Do whatever you wish, Syaoran. I do not care who you are dating right now. You are to marry Kinimoto's daughter and that is final. I have heard Sakura is a natural beauty at the age of twenty-two," she said, looking down at her papers she was signing.
'Natural beauty,' he thought. 'She must be a ditz like the rest of them. At the age of twenty-two?! She's a baby compared to me!' "I'm sure she is," he snorted.
"She is."
"I don't even know the fuc-"
Yelan faced her soon and gave him a hard look. "Watch your language, son. I understand what you're feeling. But think of this way, I doubt any of our ancestors ever married unless it helped ourselves. Luckily for your father and I, our parents felt our marriage would benefit them and we fell in love." Her features softened at the thought of her dead husband.
"I never knew that," Syaoran muttered. When he heard his mother speak of his father, which wasn't too often, he usually shut his mouth.
"Yes, well.it happened afterward. So imagine what I must have felt, knowing it was my duty. I am not telling you this to gain your sympathy, I am telling you because this marriage is your duty to this family."
He said nothing. He knew all about keeping the family blood within, and upholding their family image.
"Go on out, Syaoran. I have tons of work to do. Oh dear, Eriol also called. He wanted to meet you for dinner. It's the newest restaurant he opened. You know where it is," she said.
He stalked out of the room, without saying good-bye to his mother. 'Sorry, my dearest son. I apologize for doing this to you. I know you do not wish to be tied down to anyone right now but it is for the best. It is for the best,' she thought silently.
***
"I'm getting married to who?!" Sakura exclaimed. She jumped out of her chair and tried to get out.
Fujitaka grabbed her arm. "You are going to sit here and listen properly. You are to be married. What is so hard to understand? This marriage will do both families good. I have known Li Yelan for a while now. They are good blood. This shall benefit us both ways. I shall help them further invest. Is that clear?" he asked.
"Gomen nasai. I can't do it! I am only twenty-two! I have a future ahead of me!" she protested loudly.
"What more of a future do you have? You have graduated early than the rest. What more are you striving for? You have enough schooling to be on the top of them all, Sakura. All you need is someone to tie you down. That is going to be Li Syaoran," he declared.
"You can't do this to me! You are wrong! How could you marry me off without my permission?" she asked. "Tie me down? What is this? The medieval times?"
"You live under my roof, therefore my rules. I thought it was a good idea as did Yelan. It was the best thing to do. I love you, Sakura. I know you have enough strength to do this," he said softly.
'Li Syaoran, Hong Kong's most wanted bachelor. He's five years older than I am! All those women he sleeps with, it's a wonder they even go back to him! How am I going to live with a man like that? A man who doesn't even love me for me.'she trailed off.
"Yes," she said obediently. Inside rage was pouring and she wanted to knock something out. Sakura needed to hit something. Now.
"Eriol called when you were out. He recently opened a new restaurant. He wants you to meet him there with Tomoyo. She should be here any minute," Fujitaka said with an abundance of cheerfulness. "Out you go, sweet pea. I have business to do here later."
She stalked out of the room with annoyance. Feeling sad and angry, she wasn't looking where she was going. She bumped into a muscular chest.
"Watch where you're going, kajiuu!" Touya teased.
She looked at him and then punched him, right in the gut. He groaned out in pain and muttered, "Should have never taught her how to defend herself."
'Now that felt good. I feel much better after punching Touya,' she thought and smiled to herself.
***
"Syaoran! Good to see you!" a man with floppy blue hair said. They exchanged their manly hugs.
Syaoran nodded. "How have you been? I hear your restaurants are a big success now," he said. "Especially after going out with Tomoyo now. Latest designer eating at your restaurant brought everyone in here. Who knew you'd be such a good cook? Five star, while we're talking about this."
Eriol had a pink tinge in his cheeks now. "Thanks, but it's no big deal. Tomoyo should be here. She's bringing over her best friend," he warned. "Don't even think about hitting on her or else I will have to chop your head off and serve it as an appetizer!"
Syaoran chuckled and asked, "Is she that hot?"
He shook his head at the question. "I have a girlfriend that I am faithful to. Besides, that's Tomoyo's best friend. Unlike some people, I intend on keeping an honest relationship."
"I know, don't even lecture me again. I'm still with Tiffani right now. Or at least, for now I am. I think I'm going to break up with her tonight," he said with a smirk. "It's getting close to my break off time. You know the rule, time to break up with the chick after two weeks and a half."
"Tiffani, now why does that name sound familiar? Isn't she the gold digger?" Eriol asked playfully. "Ah yes, the Golden Rule. I can't forget that. It's a wonder the women of Hong Kong and Japan hasn't murdered you in your sleep!"
Syaoran glared at him. "That's because I keep them all satisfied. And yes, Tiffani the gold digger. You're not far from the mark, Eriol. When I send her gifts, she appears. When I don't, she's with other men. She must think I'm completely stupid. I could care less what she does," he said in disgust. "Which is why I'm pretty eager to dump her for a new one."
"Eriol!" someone yelled. A young woman with raven hair waved at him. Her amethyst eyes weren't hard to miss in the crowd.
Tomoyo began to walk over to Eriol who was waving back to her with delight. Everyone in the restaurant suddenly became still. Everyone spoke in hushed voices.
"Is that the famous designer everyone is talking about? Daidouji Tomoyo?" a whisper passed by.
"It could be, looks just like her! I can't believe she's here!" another replied.
Tomoyo walked in without a care for the world. "Come out from behind me now!" she hissed, "Sakura."
Sighing in defeat, she popped up from behind Tomoyo. Syaoran was fascinated by her beauty. Shoulder-length honey hair and emerald eyes. She wore a short skirt which she kept trying to conceal by her hands. A glittery top with with a sheer jacket over it.
"Tomoyo.everyone's staring!" she whispered. "Couldn't I have worn some jeans or something? Ugh, why'd you have to pick a skirt of all days? Can't you see it's freezing!"
Tomoyo turned around and said, "You look great. It's not that cold! Besides, you get to wear clothes by me!" Sakura grinned at the remark. They walked over to meet Eriol.
Tomoyo smiled at him and gave him a peck on the cheek. Eriol hugged her and held her possessively by the waist. It wasn't hard to see all the men staring at the stunning woman.
Sakura saw Eriol wasn't about to let go and settled for a verbal greeting. "How are you, Eriol?" she asked. She took a good look at the restaurant. The architect was something different. There were lights hanging from the ceiling over the tables. The restaurant was dark and secluded, with perfect lighting. "I love it. It's gorgeous!"
"I couldn't have done it without the help of other people. But, thanks. I'm glad you like it. I'd like you to meet a friend of mine," Eriol said and motioning Syaoran to come over. He gave his famous lopsided smile. "This is Li Syaoran, I'm sure you all know about him. He's almost on every newspaper, you know."
Sakura gasped outloud at hearing the name. "Something wrong?" Tomoyo asked, with a flicker of worry in her eyes.
She quickly shook her head. "I, well, uhm. I think I left something in the car. I'll be right back!" She walked back out, still trying to pull down her skirt. 'I almost let it slip! He doesn't notice me, so I'm going to keep it that way!' she thought.
'She has the longest legs I have ever seen. The way she keeps pulling her skirt down, makes it go up even further,' he thought. 'Maybe I should go after her.'
He cleared his throat. "Should I check up on her?" Eriol and Tomoyo nodded, barely acknowledging his presence. They were too engrossed with each other to notice anything. He shrugged and walked after the mysterious woman.
***
"What am I going to do? He doesn't even recognize me! What an idiot! I can't believe this! Of all people I had to meet! It just had to be him! I knew it!" she said outloud.
"Just had to be who?" a voice asked behind her.
She jumped backwards and into strong arms. Sakura pulled away hastily and looked to see who the stranger was. Li Syaoran's dark eyes stared right back into hers.
"It's none of your business!" she snapped. "Why are you outside anyways? Shouldn't you be inside with Tomoyo and Eriol?"
'This one is sure feisty,' he thought. "Hmm.I wonder why I'm outside. It could be because you are outside. It could be because I want to be outside. What else could it be?" he asked, scratching his chin. "Could it be because I want fresh air, too?"
"You're so infuriating!" she said. "I don't care why you're outside! I just need to get something!"
He pretended to look hurt. His bottom lip thrusted out and he held onto his heart. "Really now? And don't you need these?" Syaoran dangled the keys away from her face.
"The keys! I just forgot to get them from Tomoyo. How about you give them to me and just leave me alone?"
"I'm not going to leave you alone. Quite the opposite," he mumured and came behind her again. "It's a free country."
"Look, I know who you are. I'm not stupid. Don't play your little seductive games with me, because they're really annoying if you ask me. Go play with someone else, like your girlfriend Tiffani," she said nonchalantly.
He stopped. "Excuse me?" he asked in anger. "How do you know about Tiffani?"
"Doesn't everyone?" Sakura retorted. "Practically everyone knows you, Mr. Hong Kong's Most Wanted Bachelor. How many times have you been voted that again?"
'She's beautiful all right, but has a sharp tongue. Who cares if she knows about Tiffani? I'll break up with her right now then. I was going to anyway,' he decided. He pulled out his cell phone and dialed.
"Tiffani here, how sexy are you?" she coyly.
"Pretty damn sexy but that's not why I'm calling. I'm taking a break from you now," he said to her.
"Syaoran?! You can't break up with me! No one breaks up with Tiffani but uh.Tiffani! You're MINE!" He hung up on her.
He smiled wolfishly at her. "Tiffani who?" he asked. "I don't know any Tiffani's."
"Why are you even here in Japan?" she asked. "Shouldn't you be in Hong Kong?"
"Why do you care? If you must know, I'm here because my mother is here. Plus I think I'm in need of a vacation before I get married to this one chick I don't even know," he added. "I mean, the woman I'm about to marry."
'So now I'm a chick.'. "What kind of vacation?" she asked to be polite. Really, she should have brushed him off by now. She felt strange, standing there talking to her soon-to-be fiance.
He stared into her emerald eyes. "One with lots of women to keep me entertained," Syaoran said seriously. "Lots and lots of women."
She laughed and said, "I'm sure. You're the ultimate playboy. I bet you couldn't live without women." 'Imagine how your wife would feel.'
He suddenly felt disoriented by her eyes from staring into them so long. 'That's what women must feel like when they look into my eyes,' he reflected. "Maybe you're right. I think I've been sleeping with too many women that it's getting predictable," he said.
Images began to form in her head and she shook them away. "Thanks for sharing, but I don't want to hear whom you're sleeping with. That's your personal life and keep it that way. Besides, it's not like you want to hear about mine."
He flashed a rare grin and inquired, "And if I wanted to know about your sex life, would you tell me?"
Sakura's eyes widened. "No! Are you kidding me? I would never ever tell you!" she vowed. Then shivered. It was getting dark and chilly. He took off his jacket and handed it to her.
"No thanks. I don't need it," she replied to his simple gesture.
"Why is it that everything I say or do, it always end up being my fault?" he asked with a slight irritated tone. "I'm just trying to be nice to you."
She wanted to scream 'you mean be nice and then try to get me in bed with you!' but she kept her mouth shut. Sakura was sitting on the edge of a enormous cement pot outside the restaurant. She had come outside to think and now that was the last thing on her mind to do. Sighing, she shut her eyes to feel the cool breeze caress her skin.
Syaoran was having a hard time keeping his eyes off this woman. The way her long legs crossed, the way they uncrossed, the way she played with her fingers, the way she sighed, everything about her was memorizing. He was feeling warmth spread and a tightening began to occur. He mentally groaned.
"I'm going back inside, they must be worried about us. I wouldn't want to keep them waiting," she said, getting up. She walked back inside, leaving him in dust.
"That was only five minutes. It felt like forever though," he said with a gentleness. "She forgot the keys." No one answered him. Only the wind blew in silence beckoning him to continue.
***
"Where were you, Sakura?" Tomoyo asked softly. "Is everything okay? I didn't realize that Syaoran went outside after you. I was so caught up and I didn't realize it."
She nodded. "Everything's fine!" she said, with faked happiness. 'Does everything look fine? It sure as hell doesn't! I'm getting married to a damn man who can't keep his pants zipped! And life is suppose to be good? I don't think so,' she thought.
"I'm really sorry, Eriol. I know dinner hasn't started yet but I feel rather light headed. I'm sorry for ruining tonight's dinner but I'll make it up to you," she said in a drained tone.
Tomoyo was about to say something but Sakura silenced her with a pointed look.
"That's okay, Sakura. Hey, maybe you can cook next time," Eriol joked. "Do I need to bring any kind of stomach medicine?"
She tried to produce a fake worn out smile. Whatever it was, she hoped it was working. "I'll just take the bus."
Tomoyo protested at the thought of Sakura taking a bus home. Eriol let the two bicker until he saw Syaoran come in. "Would you like me to bring you home? I'm sure Tomoyo won't mind, staying here with Syaoran. How about that, Tomoyo?" he asked politely. He sure didn't want his girlfriend's best friend to be in a car with Syaoran. Syaoran may be his best friend, but his girlfriend was protective when it came to her own best friend. Eriol had been friends with Syaoran since grade school and knew the devil's tricks well.
"What's going on?" Syaoran asked as he saunted over. "Things seem to have mellowed out here. Is everything okay?" He looked at everyone with suspicion.
"Nothing is wrong. Sak-" Tomoyo felt a hand clamp over her mouth. Sakura let go quickly and motioned her to go to the ladies room.
"Uhm.honey, we'll be back." The two women left after excusing themselvse.
"What was that all about?" Syaoran asked his friend.
Eriol shrugged, "I wouldn't know."
"Yeah, just what is it with women and going to the restroom in packs?"
"And again, I wouldn't know."
The two men shared a knowing look and chuckled. Eriol looked around for a while before asking, "You know what your problem is?"
Syaoran gaze him a lazy smile, "I sure do. The fact that you're always asking me what my problem is."
"You need a woman who'll settle you down," Eriol said, motioning a waiter for a glass of wine.
He froze. Not again. "Just what makes you think that? You've been a bachelor as long as I have," he mentioned casually.
"I have, I admit it. I have Tomoyo right now and that's all I need. You're still going and sooner or later, you're going to run out of fuel. You need a woman to keep you in check."
***
"Sakura, what in the world has gotten into you?"
"Nothing. Nothing at all." She nearly wheezed. "Just don't, don't tell him my name. I'll tell you everything outside. I need to leave before he finds out."
"Who finds out?"
"Li Syaoran! Please, you've got to help me. Just get me out of here, and I'll take the bus home. C'mon," she pleaded desperately.
Tomoyo saw her best friend in distress. "Okay. I'll do it. But you better have a really good reason keeping me away from Eriol right now."
"I do, believe me. I really do," she murmured. "Let's go before they start worrying that we've drowned ourselves in here."
***
Syaoran sucked in a breath. He couldn't believe it. He was sitting in a restaurant with his best friend and his best friend was lecturing him about women. Women! He just couldn't believe it. Before he could say anything, the two women slid back into their seats.
"Thank you so much for understanding, Eriol. You're one in a million. Tomoyo is sure lucky to have you. My headaches keep on coming back. I owe you one."
Tomoyo reacted quickly enough. "Eriol, honey.I'm going to drive Sakura home to make sure she's safe. I wouldn't want her to collaspe on the pavement. I'll be back."
Eriol sat there confused as the women gave each other 'BITE ME!' glares. "That's fine, drive safely."
Tomoyo nodded with hearts in her eyes. "Oh, I will." Sakura was very devious when she wanted to be but Tomoyo knew her far too well. She'd corner Sakura in the car and interrogate her.
"Maybe fate will bring us together again," Syaoran murmured at Sakura. For such a line, it fit him well. It made her go all warm and gushy inside when she didn't want to be.
She almost turned around when she shot back, "I'm sure it'll be sometime soon, but don't hold your breath. It'll only be an unfortunate meeting though." She walked out with Tomoyo, leaving a shocked Eriol and stunned Syaoran gaping behind.
***
"All right, spill. What was that?" Tomoyo demanded. "You are acting very strange, Sakura. Very unlike you."
She sat there, making no movements. Staring out the window, she said, "You have no idea, Tomoyo. You really have no idea. I'm doomed. With that big oaf."
"No idea of what?" she asked. "You are not making any sense! Oaf? What oaf?
Sakura tilted her head against the window and said, "I'm getting married."
Tomoyo's foot stepped on the break. It was a good thing no cars were on the streets. "You're WHAT?!" she screamed. "Oh my! I never thought you'd be the first to get married! I can't believe it! This! This is amazing! Just who's the guy!? And why didn't you tell me!?"
She shook her head sadly. "You don't understand. I'm getting married to someone I hardly know," she said. "It's not like you think."
Tomoyo sat there, trying to let everything sink in. "Have you met him already?"
"I hate to say this, but I have met him," Sakura muttered. "Today, actually. More like a couple of seconds ago before we left."
"Li Syaoran?" Tomoyo's jaw dropped. "That Li Syaoran? Oh, Sakura." Instantly, she knew why Sakura felt the way she did. No one could miss those tabloids about him.
She punched Tomoyo lightly on the shoulder and said, "Don't give me that look. I already know he's a womanizer and he cares for nothing, but that."
"Maybe you should try to get to know him first. Eriol's his best friend, so he can't possibly be that bad. We're here. Should I call Eriol and tell him I can't make it to dinner?" Tomoyo asked. "He won't mind the least if you want. I could stay over and console you."
"No, go to dinner. Or else, Tomoyo! Don't make me hurt you!" Sakura grinned, lifting up her fist. The
Tomoyo laughed and walked Sakura to the door. "Thanks, Tomoyo. Don't tell him my name is Sakura. Please, Tomoyo! I'm begging you," she pleaded. "I don't want him to know. It might just be better this way that he doesn't realize it's ME he has to marry, but some ditz."
"I understand. I won't tell them. If they figure it out on their own, I'm not going to say anything. I promise, Sakura-chan!" she saluted. 'I'm sorry that he's a womanizer, but maybe you can change his ways. I hope things work out in the end. I really do, Sakura.I really do.'
***
"I wonder what is taking Tomoyo very long. She should be back by now," Eriol said, worried. "I hope everything is okay."
Syaoran nodded. "Me too, Eriol. Too bad your friend had a headache. Even if you didn't say so, her friend is definitely a babe."
Eriol glared at him and was shooting daggers with his eyes. "She's a very intelligent woman, not just some 'babe'. I don't want you hitting on her."
"You're not my mother, Eriol. I can do whatever I want. I broke up with Tiffani already so maybe we can, you know, hook up," he said, wiggling his eyebrows. "What's her name anyway?"
"Thank the Heavens I'm not your mother. That's just gross. You don't even know her name! Whoa whoa, this has got to be a first. You, of all people, forgot to ask for her name? I could've sworn that would have been the first thing you would have done." he laughed, slapping Syaoran's back. "I should get our dinner going too. I'm starved." He called a waiter and began to place orders.
"So what's her name?" Syaoran asked impatiently. "Either you tell me or Tomoyo will."
"All right, jeez. Calm down," Eriol said. "Her name's Sakura."
He jumped up from his seat. "Her name's WHAT?!" Syaoran shouted. "Sakura!? Sakura what?" He began attracting stares from the customers.
Eriol made a motion to shut up with his fingers and said, "Kinomoto. Kinomoto Sakura."
'THE WOMAN I MET WAS MY FIANCEE?! THE FIERY, GORGEOUS, HOT, TONGUED WOMAN WAS-IS GOING TO BE MY FIANCE?!?!' his mind roared. His heart began to increase at a fast rate. His palms began to sweat. "Th-that's.she's going t-to be my wi-wife," he stammered. Eriol gave him a queer look at his sudden outburst.
Tomoyo came running in. "I'm sorry I'm late! I had to pick some things up at my house and Sakura told you not to worry about her!" She gasped. 'Stupid, stupid, I said her name!' she thought. Syaoran had no reaction.
"I already know, Tomoyo. I can't believe she didn't tell me," he growled. "She knew and she didn't bother to tell me."
"I-Uhm. What are you talking about? She probably didn't even know! I mean, this is Sakura we're talking about here," Tomoyo said weakly.
"Don't tell me she didn't know. She wouldn't have excused herself from this dinner if she hadn't known," he snapped. "A headache right? Well, when I was talking to her, she seemed fine to me."
The dinner from there went down hill. Everyone ate in silence. Syaoran felt embarassed. 'She lied to me. So I found out she's not a ditz but she didn't tell me that she was my fiancee,' he thought and felt betrayed for some reason.
Eriol and Tomoyo looked at each other and kept stealing glances at Syaoran who paid no attention. Dinner was eaten in silence with occasionally Eriol whispering to Tomoyo.
After dinner was over, Syaoran went home. "I'm over it. I don't care anymore. At least our honeymoon will be great by the looks of it," he said sardonically.
"I hope Syaoran is better," Eriol said to his darling, Tomoyo. "Me too, Eriol. I hope they're okay too," she added, laying her head on his shoulder.
***
"He found out. Somehow I feel like I know he found out. This weird feeling inside me is all stirred up. He must know by now," she decided. "I can't believe I'm marrying a moron!" She fell back on her bed and sighed. With her hands behind her head, she vowed to the stars and skies, "I may be marrying him but I'll never fall for a man like him. He'll never change." The stars twinkled as if they heard her vow. She never knew how wrong she was.
***
Written by Dknight02
E-mail: [email protected] AIM: xDani029x
A/N: This is an A/U fic of CCS. Read and review, please. No flames.
Disclaimer: The story line is mine. Steal it and I'll hunt you down.
***
"I'm what, with who?" Syaoran asked again with disbelief.
"Syaoran! If I have to repeat myself, I'm gonna slap you silly! Listen carefully. You're going to be married with someone of the name Kinomoto! Hasn't Auntie Yelan told you yet?" Meilin asked
His cold amber eyes stared into the fire. "No, she has not spoken to me about any betrothals."
Meilin looked thoughtful for a moment and said, "I wonder why she would be secretive about this. I was walking over to bring Auntie Yelan a cup of tea. Unfortunately she was having a private meeting and the door was open slightly. I overheard them talking about you and a betrothal. I'm sorry, Syaoran."
"Geez! I'm fine, Meilin. Don't pity me, that's the last thing I need. I have this corporation to look after and I don't want to be a baby- sitter. A wife, what do I need a wife for? Running corporations does not require a wife. I'm going to speak to mother about this," he said gruffly.
'Poor Syaoran. Now he has to get married to someone he does not know. I hope I do not have to do that. I wish I married for love, not for conviences. I am sorry for not telling you the whole truth. I am sorry,' she thought to herself as he walked out of the room.
***
"What is the meaning of this, Syaoran?" Yelan asked with wide eyes. She had never seen her son in such a disturbing manner. His eyes were darting back and forth between her and her phone.
"There is much meaning of this! Mother, how could you not tell me that I was betrothed? Who am I betrothed to, Mother? Why couldn't you tell me? Did you even bother to think of how I would feel?" he roared at the unyielding figure.
"For a man of twenty-seven years of age, I would say you are acting quite childish. Do you think I am doing this for myself? I am doing this for us. Haven't you realized our corporation is slowly withering? We need help and we need it now. A good friend of mine, Kinimoto Fujitaka, has made an arrangement with me. I am sure he has heard a great deal of you. If you two shall marry, our corporations shall merge together. I know his is growing to be on top of the list," she commented thoughtfully.
He leaned foreward to grab onto the chair. His knuckles turned white. "I'm still going out with Tiffani!" he exclaimed. His mother shook her head sadly.
"Do whatever you wish, Syaoran. I do not care who you are dating right now. You are to marry Kinimoto's daughter and that is final. I have heard Sakura is a natural beauty at the age of twenty-two," she said, looking down at her papers she was signing.
'Natural beauty,' he thought. 'She must be a ditz like the rest of them. At the age of twenty-two?! She's a baby compared to me!' "I'm sure she is," he snorted.
"She is."
"I don't even know the fuc-"
Yelan faced her soon and gave him a hard look. "Watch your language, son. I understand what you're feeling. But think of this way, I doubt any of our ancestors ever married unless it helped ourselves. Luckily for your father and I, our parents felt our marriage would benefit them and we fell in love." Her features softened at the thought of her dead husband.
"I never knew that," Syaoran muttered. When he heard his mother speak of his father, which wasn't too often, he usually shut his mouth.
"Yes, well.it happened afterward. So imagine what I must have felt, knowing it was my duty. I am not telling you this to gain your sympathy, I am telling you because this marriage is your duty to this family."
He said nothing. He knew all about keeping the family blood within, and upholding their family image.
"Go on out, Syaoran. I have tons of work to do. Oh dear, Eriol also called. He wanted to meet you for dinner. It's the newest restaurant he opened. You know where it is," she said.
He stalked out of the room, without saying good-bye to his mother. 'Sorry, my dearest son. I apologize for doing this to you. I know you do not wish to be tied down to anyone right now but it is for the best. It is for the best,' she thought silently.
***
"I'm getting married to who?!" Sakura exclaimed. She jumped out of her chair and tried to get out.
Fujitaka grabbed her arm. "You are going to sit here and listen properly. You are to be married. What is so hard to understand? This marriage will do both families good. I have known Li Yelan for a while now. They are good blood. This shall benefit us both ways. I shall help them further invest. Is that clear?" he asked.
"Gomen nasai. I can't do it! I am only twenty-two! I have a future ahead of me!" she protested loudly.
"What more of a future do you have? You have graduated early than the rest. What more are you striving for? You have enough schooling to be on the top of them all, Sakura. All you need is someone to tie you down. That is going to be Li Syaoran," he declared.
"You can't do this to me! You are wrong! How could you marry me off without my permission?" she asked. "Tie me down? What is this? The medieval times?"
"You live under my roof, therefore my rules. I thought it was a good idea as did Yelan. It was the best thing to do. I love you, Sakura. I know you have enough strength to do this," he said softly.
'Li Syaoran, Hong Kong's most wanted bachelor. He's five years older than I am! All those women he sleeps with, it's a wonder they even go back to him! How am I going to live with a man like that? A man who doesn't even love me for me.'she trailed off.
"Yes," she said obediently. Inside rage was pouring and she wanted to knock something out. Sakura needed to hit something. Now.
"Eriol called when you were out. He recently opened a new restaurant. He wants you to meet him there with Tomoyo. She should be here any minute," Fujitaka said with an abundance of cheerfulness. "Out you go, sweet pea. I have business to do here later."
She stalked out of the room with annoyance. Feeling sad and angry, she wasn't looking where she was going. She bumped into a muscular chest.
"Watch where you're going, kajiuu!" Touya teased.
She looked at him and then punched him, right in the gut. He groaned out in pain and muttered, "Should have never taught her how to defend herself."
'Now that felt good. I feel much better after punching Touya,' she thought and smiled to herself.
***
"Syaoran! Good to see you!" a man with floppy blue hair said. They exchanged their manly hugs.
Syaoran nodded. "How have you been? I hear your restaurants are a big success now," he said. "Especially after going out with Tomoyo now. Latest designer eating at your restaurant brought everyone in here. Who knew you'd be such a good cook? Five star, while we're talking about this."
Eriol had a pink tinge in his cheeks now. "Thanks, but it's no big deal. Tomoyo should be here. She's bringing over her best friend," he warned. "Don't even think about hitting on her or else I will have to chop your head off and serve it as an appetizer!"
Syaoran chuckled and asked, "Is she that hot?"
He shook his head at the question. "I have a girlfriend that I am faithful to. Besides, that's Tomoyo's best friend. Unlike some people, I intend on keeping an honest relationship."
"I know, don't even lecture me again. I'm still with Tiffani right now. Or at least, for now I am. I think I'm going to break up with her tonight," he said with a smirk. "It's getting close to my break off time. You know the rule, time to break up with the chick after two weeks and a half."
"Tiffani, now why does that name sound familiar? Isn't she the gold digger?" Eriol asked playfully. "Ah yes, the Golden Rule. I can't forget that. It's a wonder the women of Hong Kong and Japan hasn't murdered you in your sleep!"
Syaoran glared at him. "That's because I keep them all satisfied. And yes, Tiffani the gold digger. You're not far from the mark, Eriol. When I send her gifts, she appears. When I don't, she's with other men. She must think I'm completely stupid. I could care less what she does," he said in disgust. "Which is why I'm pretty eager to dump her for a new one."
"Eriol!" someone yelled. A young woman with raven hair waved at him. Her amethyst eyes weren't hard to miss in the crowd.
Tomoyo began to walk over to Eriol who was waving back to her with delight. Everyone in the restaurant suddenly became still. Everyone spoke in hushed voices.
"Is that the famous designer everyone is talking about? Daidouji Tomoyo?" a whisper passed by.
"It could be, looks just like her! I can't believe she's here!" another replied.
Tomoyo walked in without a care for the world. "Come out from behind me now!" she hissed, "Sakura."
Sighing in defeat, she popped up from behind Tomoyo. Syaoran was fascinated by her beauty. Shoulder-length honey hair and emerald eyes. She wore a short skirt which she kept trying to conceal by her hands. A glittery top with with a sheer jacket over it.
"Tomoyo.everyone's staring!" she whispered. "Couldn't I have worn some jeans or something? Ugh, why'd you have to pick a skirt of all days? Can't you see it's freezing!"
Tomoyo turned around and said, "You look great. It's not that cold! Besides, you get to wear clothes by me!" Sakura grinned at the remark. They walked over to meet Eriol.
Tomoyo smiled at him and gave him a peck on the cheek. Eriol hugged her and held her possessively by the waist. It wasn't hard to see all the men staring at the stunning woman.
Sakura saw Eriol wasn't about to let go and settled for a verbal greeting. "How are you, Eriol?" she asked. She took a good look at the restaurant. The architect was something different. There were lights hanging from the ceiling over the tables. The restaurant was dark and secluded, with perfect lighting. "I love it. It's gorgeous!"
"I couldn't have done it without the help of other people. But, thanks. I'm glad you like it. I'd like you to meet a friend of mine," Eriol said and motioning Syaoran to come over. He gave his famous lopsided smile. "This is Li Syaoran, I'm sure you all know about him. He's almost on every newspaper, you know."
Sakura gasped outloud at hearing the name. "Something wrong?" Tomoyo asked, with a flicker of worry in her eyes.
She quickly shook her head. "I, well, uhm. I think I left something in the car. I'll be right back!" She walked back out, still trying to pull down her skirt. 'I almost let it slip! He doesn't notice me, so I'm going to keep it that way!' she thought.
'She has the longest legs I have ever seen. The way she keeps pulling her skirt down, makes it go up even further,' he thought. 'Maybe I should go after her.'
He cleared his throat. "Should I check up on her?" Eriol and Tomoyo nodded, barely acknowledging his presence. They were too engrossed with each other to notice anything. He shrugged and walked after the mysterious woman.
***
"What am I going to do? He doesn't even recognize me! What an idiot! I can't believe this! Of all people I had to meet! It just had to be him! I knew it!" she said outloud.
"Just had to be who?" a voice asked behind her.
She jumped backwards and into strong arms. Sakura pulled away hastily and looked to see who the stranger was. Li Syaoran's dark eyes stared right back into hers.
"It's none of your business!" she snapped. "Why are you outside anyways? Shouldn't you be inside with Tomoyo and Eriol?"
'This one is sure feisty,' he thought. "Hmm.I wonder why I'm outside. It could be because you are outside. It could be because I want to be outside. What else could it be?" he asked, scratching his chin. "Could it be because I want fresh air, too?"
"You're so infuriating!" she said. "I don't care why you're outside! I just need to get something!"
He pretended to look hurt. His bottom lip thrusted out and he held onto his heart. "Really now? And don't you need these?" Syaoran dangled the keys away from her face.
"The keys! I just forgot to get them from Tomoyo. How about you give them to me and just leave me alone?"
"I'm not going to leave you alone. Quite the opposite," he mumured and came behind her again. "It's a free country."
"Look, I know who you are. I'm not stupid. Don't play your little seductive games with me, because they're really annoying if you ask me. Go play with someone else, like your girlfriend Tiffani," she said nonchalantly.
He stopped. "Excuse me?" he asked in anger. "How do you know about Tiffani?"
"Doesn't everyone?" Sakura retorted. "Practically everyone knows you, Mr. Hong Kong's Most Wanted Bachelor. How many times have you been voted that again?"
'She's beautiful all right, but has a sharp tongue. Who cares if she knows about Tiffani? I'll break up with her right now then. I was going to anyway,' he decided. He pulled out his cell phone and dialed.
"Tiffani here, how sexy are you?" she coyly.
"Pretty damn sexy but that's not why I'm calling. I'm taking a break from you now," he said to her.
"Syaoran?! You can't break up with me! No one breaks up with Tiffani but uh.Tiffani! You're MINE!" He hung up on her.
He smiled wolfishly at her. "Tiffani who?" he asked. "I don't know any Tiffani's."
"Why are you even here in Japan?" she asked. "Shouldn't you be in Hong Kong?"
"Why do you care? If you must know, I'm here because my mother is here. Plus I think I'm in need of a vacation before I get married to this one chick I don't even know," he added. "I mean, the woman I'm about to marry."
'So now I'm a chick.'. "What kind of vacation?" she asked to be polite. Really, she should have brushed him off by now. She felt strange, standing there talking to her soon-to-be fiance.
He stared into her emerald eyes. "One with lots of women to keep me entertained," Syaoran said seriously. "Lots and lots of women."
She laughed and said, "I'm sure. You're the ultimate playboy. I bet you couldn't live without women." 'Imagine how your wife would feel.'
He suddenly felt disoriented by her eyes from staring into them so long. 'That's what women must feel like when they look into my eyes,' he reflected. "Maybe you're right. I think I've been sleeping with too many women that it's getting predictable," he said.
Images began to form in her head and she shook them away. "Thanks for sharing, but I don't want to hear whom you're sleeping with. That's your personal life and keep it that way. Besides, it's not like you want to hear about mine."
He flashed a rare grin and inquired, "And if I wanted to know about your sex life, would you tell me?"
Sakura's eyes widened. "No! Are you kidding me? I would never ever tell you!" she vowed. Then shivered. It was getting dark and chilly. He took off his jacket and handed it to her.
"No thanks. I don't need it," she replied to his simple gesture.
"Why is it that everything I say or do, it always end up being my fault?" he asked with a slight irritated tone. "I'm just trying to be nice to you."
She wanted to scream 'you mean be nice and then try to get me in bed with you!' but she kept her mouth shut. Sakura was sitting on the edge of a enormous cement pot outside the restaurant. She had come outside to think and now that was the last thing on her mind to do. Sighing, she shut her eyes to feel the cool breeze caress her skin.
Syaoran was having a hard time keeping his eyes off this woman. The way her long legs crossed, the way they uncrossed, the way she played with her fingers, the way she sighed, everything about her was memorizing. He was feeling warmth spread and a tightening began to occur. He mentally groaned.
"I'm going back inside, they must be worried about us. I wouldn't want to keep them waiting," she said, getting up. She walked back inside, leaving him in dust.
"That was only five minutes. It felt like forever though," he said with a gentleness. "She forgot the keys." No one answered him. Only the wind blew in silence beckoning him to continue.
***
"Where were you, Sakura?" Tomoyo asked softly. "Is everything okay? I didn't realize that Syaoran went outside after you. I was so caught up and I didn't realize it."
She nodded. "Everything's fine!" she said, with faked happiness. 'Does everything look fine? It sure as hell doesn't! I'm getting married to a damn man who can't keep his pants zipped! And life is suppose to be good? I don't think so,' she thought.
"I'm really sorry, Eriol. I know dinner hasn't started yet but I feel rather light headed. I'm sorry for ruining tonight's dinner but I'll make it up to you," she said in a drained tone.
Tomoyo was about to say something but Sakura silenced her with a pointed look.
"That's okay, Sakura. Hey, maybe you can cook next time," Eriol joked. "Do I need to bring any kind of stomach medicine?"
She tried to produce a fake worn out smile. Whatever it was, she hoped it was working. "I'll just take the bus."
Tomoyo protested at the thought of Sakura taking a bus home. Eriol let the two bicker until he saw Syaoran come in. "Would you like me to bring you home? I'm sure Tomoyo won't mind, staying here with Syaoran. How about that, Tomoyo?" he asked politely. He sure didn't want his girlfriend's best friend to be in a car with Syaoran. Syaoran may be his best friend, but his girlfriend was protective when it came to her own best friend. Eriol had been friends with Syaoran since grade school and knew the devil's tricks well.
"What's going on?" Syaoran asked as he saunted over. "Things seem to have mellowed out here. Is everything okay?" He looked at everyone with suspicion.
"Nothing is wrong. Sak-" Tomoyo felt a hand clamp over her mouth. Sakura let go quickly and motioned her to go to the ladies room.
"Uhm.honey, we'll be back." The two women left after excusing themselvse.
"What was that all about?" Syaoran asked his friend.
Eriol shrugged, "I wouldn't know."
"Yeah, just what is it with women and going to the restroom in packs?"
"And again, I wouldn't know."
The two men shared a knowing look and chuckled. Eriol looked around for a while before asking, "You know what your problem is?"
Syaoran gaze him a lazy smile, "I sure do. The fact that you're always asking me what my problem is."
"You need a woman who'll settle you down," Eriol said, motioning a waiter for a glass of wine.
He froze. Not again. "Just what makes you think that? You've been a bachelor as long as I have," he mentioned casually.
"I have, I admit it. I have Tomoyo right now and that's all I need. You're still going and sooner or later, you're going to run out of fuel. You need a woman to keep you in check."
***
"Sakura, what in the world has gotten into you?"
"Nothing. Nothing at all." She nearly wheezed. "Just don't, don't tell him my name. I'll tell you everything outside. I need to leave before he finds out."
"Who finds out?"
"Li Syaoran! Please, you've got to help me. Just get me out of here, and I'll take the bus home. C'mon," she pleaded desperately.
Tomoyo saw her best friend in distress. "Okay. I'll do it. But you better have a really good reason keeping me away from Eriol right now."
"I do, believe me. I really do," she murmured. "Let's go before they start worrying that we've drowned ourselves in here."
***
Syaoran sucked in a breath. He couldn't believe it. He was sitting in a restaurant with his best friend and his best friend was lecturing him about women. Women! He just couldn't believe it. Before he could say anything, the two women slid back into their seats.
"Thank you so much for understanding, Eriol. You're one in a million. Tomoyo is sure lucky to have you. My headaches keep on coming back. I owe you one."
Tomoyo reacted quickly enough. "Eriol, honey.I'm going to drive Sakura home to make sure she's safe. I wouldn't want her to collaspe on the pavement. I'll be back."
Eriol sat there confused as the women gave each other 'BITE ME!' glares. "That's fine, drive safely."
Tomoyo nodded with hearts in her eyes. "Oh, I will." Sakura was very devious when she wanted to be but Tomoyo knew her far too well. She'd corner Sakura in the car and interrogate her.
"Maybe fate will bring us together again," Syaoran murmured at Sakura. For such a line, it fit him well. It made her go all warm and gushy inside when she didn't want to be.
She almost turned around when she shot back, "I'm sure it'll be sometime soon, but don't hold your breath. It'll only be an unfortunate meeting though." She walked out with Tomoyo, leaving a shocked Eriol and stunned Syaoran gaping behind.
***
"All right, spill. What was that?" Tomoyo demanded. "You are acting very strange, Sakura. Very unlike you."
She sat there, making no movements. Staring out the window, she said, "You have no idea, Tomoyo. You really have no idea. I'm doomed. With that big oaf."
"No idea of what?" she asked. "You are not making any sense! Oaf? What oaf?
Sakura tilted her head against the window and said, "I'm getting married."
Tomoyo's foot stepped on the break. It was a good thing no cars were on the streets. "You're WHAT?!" she screamed. "Oh my! I never thought you'd be the first to get married! I can't believe it! This! This is amazing! Just who's the guy!? And why didn't you tell me!?"
She shook her head sadly. "You don't understand. I'm getting married to someone I hardly know," she said. "It's not like you think."
Tomoyo sat there, trying to let everything sink in. "Have you met him already?"
"I hate to say this, but I have met him," Sakura muttered. "Today, actually. More like a couple of seconds ago before we left."
"Li Syaoran?" Tomoyo's jaw dropped. "That Li Syaoran? Oh, Sakura." Instantly, she knew why Sakura felt the way she did. No one could miss those tabloids about him.
She punched Tomoyo lightly on the shoulder and said, "Don't give me that look. I already know he's a womanizer and he cares for nothing, but that."
"Maybe you should try to get to know him first. Eriol's his best friend, so he can't possibly be that bad. We're here. Should I call Eriol and tell him I can't make it to dinner?" Tomoyo asked. "He won't mind the least if you want. I could stay over and console you."
"No, go to dinner. Or else, Tomoyo! Don't make me hurt you!" Sakura grinned, lifting up her fist. The
Tomoyo laughed and walked Sakura to the door. "Thanks, Tomoyo. Don't tell him my name is Sakura. Please, Tomoyo! I'm begging you," she pleaded. "I don't want him to know. It might just be better this way that he doesn't realize it's ME he has to marry, but some ditz."
"I understand. I won't tell them. If they figure it out on their own, I'm not going to say anything. I promise, Sakura-chan!" she saluted. 'I'm sorry that he's a womanizer, but maybe you can change his ways. I hope things work out in the end. I really do, Sakura.I really do.'
***
"I wonder what is taking Tomoyo very long. She should be back by now," Eriol said, worried. "I hope everything is okay."
Syaoran nodded. "Me too, Eriol. Too bad your friend had a headache. Even if you didn't say so, her friend is definitely a babe."
Eriol glared at him and was shooting daggers with his eyes. "She's a very intelligent woman, not just some 'babe'. I don't want you hitting on her."
"You're not my mother, Eriol. I can do whatever I want. I broke up with Tiffani already so maybe we can, you know, hook up," he said, wiggling his eyebrows. "What's her name anyway?"
"Thank the Heavens I'm not your mother. That's just gross. You don't even know her name! Whoa whoa, this has got to be a first. You, of all people, forgot to ask for her name? I could've sworn that would have been the first thing you would have done." he laughed, slapping Syaoran's back. "I should get our dinner going too. I'm starved." He called a waiter and began to place orders.
"So what's her name?" Syaoran asked impatiently. "Either you tell me or Tomoyo will."
"All right, jeez. Calm down," Eriol said. "Her name's Sakura."
He jumped up from his seat. "Her name's WHAT?!" Syaoran shouted. "Sakura!? Sakura what?" He began attracting stares from the customers.
Eriol made a motion to shut up with his fingers and said, "Kinomoto. Kinomoto Sakura."
'THE WOMAN I MET WAS MY FIANCEE?! THE FIERY, GORGEOUS, HOT, TONGUED WOMAN WAS-IS GOING TO BE MY FIANCE?!?!' his mind roared. His heart began to increase at a fast rate. His palms began to sweat. "Th-that's.she's going t-to be my wi-wife," he stammered. Eriol gave him a queer look at his sudden outburst.
Tomoyo came running in. "I'm sorry I'm late! I had to pick some things up at my house and Sakura told you not to worry about her!" She gasped. 'Stupid, stupid, I said her name!' she thought. Syaoran had no reaction.
"I already know, Tomoyo. I can't believe she didn't tell me," he growled. "She knew and she didn't bother to tell me."
"I-Uhm. What are you talking about? She probably didn't even know! I mean, this is Sakura we're talking about here," Tomoyo said weakly.
"Don't tell me she didn't know. She wouldn't have excused herself from this dinner if she hadn't known," he snapped. "A headache right? Well, when I was talking to her, she seemed fine to me."
The dinner from there went down hill. Everyone ate in silence. Syaoran felt embarassed. 'She lied to me. So I found out she's not a ditz but she didn't tell me that she was my fiancee,' he thought and felt betrayed for some reason.
Eriol and Tomoyo looked at each other and kept stealing glances at Syaoran who paid no attention. Dinner was eaten in silence with occasionally Eriol whispering to Tomoyo.
After dinner was over, Syaoran went home. "I'm over it. I don't care anymore. At least our honeymoon will be great by the looks of it," he said sardonically.
"I hope Syaoran is better," Eriol said to his darling, Tomoyo. "Me too, Eriol. I hope they're okay too," she added, laying her head on his shoulder.
***
"He found out. Somehow I feel like I know he found out. This weird feeling inside me is all stirred up. He must know by now," she decided. "I can't believe I'm marrying a moron!" She fell back on her bed and sighed. With her hands behind her head, she vowed to the stars and skies, "I may be marrying him but I'll never fall for a man like him. He'll never change." The stars twinkled as if they heard her vow. She never knew how wrong she was.
***