Disclaimer: All characters are from Card Captor Sakura. Syaoran is mine however… in my dreams of course.
Author's Note: The females will be 16. The males will be 18 unless stated otherwise.
"Come on Syaoran, you need to get out more." Eriol pleaded, almost desperately. Syaoran raised an exquisite brow.
"I get out plenty." Emphasizing the last word, he gave his famous trademark smirk, guaranteed to make almost any girl swoon at his feet. Eriol rolled his eyes.
"But the club has opened two months already, and you haven't been to it once," Eriol glanced at his Rolex encrusted in diamonds. It glittered; even in the dimly lit room. How long had he been here convincing his dear cousin to come along? Hearing no response, he chided him once more. "It is your club after all."
Syaoran merely shrugged. "I thought it'd be a good investment and I was right. Besides, I have all I need here." Eriol didn't miss his double-entendre.
"Well, you might actually meet someone decent." There was a moment of silence before the two. Then deep chuckles filled the room. Of course, the room was so large; it seemed their voices were echoing off the walls.
"Decent, in that type of club? Eriol, I'm wounded. I thought you knew me better! You know I don't settle for cheap whores."
"I'm sure all of Japan and China knows." Eriol spoke wryly. He of course was referring to the endless articles written about the playboy and his nightly activities.
"Hey, what can I say? Women love me." he crossed his arms, grinning smugly.
Eriol sighed hopelessly, "One day, when you find 'The Girl', I'll sit back and laugh at how whipped you are." He absently combed through his hair. Growing up with the boy, Eriol had realized it was usually nearly impossible to convince Syaoran into doing something he didn't want to. Syaoran looked thoughtful for a moment and nodded at his comment.
"I agree, but that's only when I find the right girl. But while I'm looking for her, who says I can't have a little fun?"
Eriol opened his mouth to retort but was interrupted by the shrill ringing of Syaoran's cell phone. He watched as he swiveled his armchair, toward the windows and facing the sparkling city beneath him.
"Li Syaoran speaking."
There was a brief pause.
"…What?"
The tension within the room grew thick, it was quite unnerving actually. Eriol tugged at his collar and shifted nervously.
"Well do something about it! I don't pay you to sit around you know!" he snapped his phone shut, rather loudly, before throwing it against the wall. It narrowly missed Eriol's head as he ducked wincing. What would have become of his head if it had hit? He shuddered at the thought. The plastic shattered leaving bits and pieces glittering on the plush carpet.
"Damn." Syaoran slammed his fist on his desk. Poor desk. His face was etched with a frown; his eyes lit with anger.
"What happened?"
"Tsukishiro just released another set of models. They're topping the charts already."
"I'll send out the scouters." Eriol nodded in understanding. Yukito Tsukishiro had inherited his father's company just nearly a year ago; the same time Syaoran inherited his father's. Both boys had done such a great job, they were now the largest rivals in the modeling business.
"Has recruiting been difficult lately?"
Eriol nodded slightly. "Yukito always seems to be a step ahead of us." He turned to leave the room; there was a lot of work to be done. The tinted glass doors opened before him and suddenly he turned back towards Syaoran.
"You know," The corners of Eriol's mouth lifted slightly. "I've heard there are some beauties hidden deep inside Club Fantasmic…but since you don't wanna go…"
He turned away, hiding a small smile. If there was one thing Syaoran couldn't resist; it was temptation. Eriol took a step out the door and paused. His ears perked listening for any sign of submission from Syaoran.
"It's a date."
Yes! He had done the almost-impossible!
"I'll pick you up at 8." Then, his mocking laughter rang the halls.
"Top playboy Syaoran has snagged yet another model. Seen last night with top model Cherry Watanabe, they had a romantic dinner –"
"To-mo-yo! Life doesn't revolve around 'Gossip Daily' you know!" the emerald-eyed girl whined. You probably would too if your best friend had spent the last hour drooling over some guy in a magazine. "Besides, I'm trying to watch TV here!"
Tomoyo stuck her tongue out. "Well, he is Li Syaoran," Sighing dreamily, she continued. "He's only the most gorgeous, amazing and talented –"
"Yeah," Sakura interrupted with an unlady-like snort. "The most obnoxious, stuck up, rich boy who does nothing but sit in his office surrounded by woman while we work our asses off!" With a bit of exaggeration, Sakura huffed.
Tomoyo's eyes widened.
"Wow Sakura, I didn't know you despised him to that depth."
"I don't despise him, just, what do woman see in him?" Sakura wondered aloud.
Tomoyo grinned. "Were you born yesterday Sakura? Look at him, and tell me you don't see why woman paw over him." She lifted her magazine and Sakura found herself staring at the full-faced portrait of Li Syaoran. Sakura gasped unconsciously. 'So this is him' she thought. His face was tilted in an angle that his messy brown hair fell over one of his eyes. She couldn't miss the intensity of the captivating amber orbs, fringed with a tint of playfulness. Her sight traveled to his lips, posed with a smirk. Sakura opened her mouth to tell Tomoyo that the 18-year old wasn't that hot, but nothing came out.
"See what I mean?" Tomoyo looked smug.
Heat rose to her cheeks. Sakura retorted, "He's not that hot!" Hah! She said it!
"Right." Tomoyo rolled her eyes and blew a raspberry at her.
Sakura giggled at her gesture before tossing the closest cushioned pillow. It hit her friend with a thud followed by an 'OW! Sakura!' With a wistful smile, Sakura leaned comfortably against the sofa. 'I love these moments.' Her thoughts drifted to her childhood, when she'd first met Tomoyo.
(Flashback)
"Aw, crybaby Sakura has no friends." Brea mockingly pouted.
"She has no parents either." Tiffany sneered at her.
They were all part of a group, who found it amusing to taunt Sakura. They hurt her daily, mentally and physically. Everyone was well aware, but they had never thought to help. After all, the girls were the most popular in school. No one wanted to cross them.
"Stop!" Sakura bit her trembling lip.
Amy smirked cruelly. "Or what Kinomoto? You'll tell your parents on us?"
Amy continued, "Oops, I almost forgot, you don't have parents."
Tears streamed down Sakura's face.
Tiffany gasped falsely, "Shh, I think we hurt her feelings."
They all laughed as the leader, Leah, pushed her onto the cold-tiled floor.
Leah began, "Look here –"
"Leave her to hell alone you bitches." Amethyst orbs glanced at her shrinking form before turning to face them. She seethed at the group of girls in front of her. Stalking slowly over to Leah as a predator did its prey, she smacked her clear across the face. Leah's face snapped to the side, a red handprint in its place. In panic, the three girls tugged at Leah's arm, quickly walking away.
Sakura watched in awe at her savior. She felt no fear as the purple-headed girl knelt down to her level, stretching out her hand.
"You okay there?" She smiled brightly.
Sakura nodded timidly, taking the girl's hand.
"I'm Tomoyo Daidouji."
"I'm Sakura… Sakura Kinomoto…and… t-thank you Tomoyo."
(End Flashback)
They'd been best friends ever since. Tomoyo had taught Sakura to fend for herself. As orphans, they had no one, but now, they had each other. They were sixteen now, and owned a small, cozy apartment together. It was luck perhaps, to work underage in the hottest, sleaziest club in town. Tips there alone in a week paid more than any normal job in two. Her reminiscing ended abruptly to the shrill ringing of a phone.
"Tomoyo and Sakura here!" she chirped. Looking at Sakura, she mouthed 'Work'.
"Oh…okay" There was a pause.
"I see. We can come right over." Tomoyo placed the phone down with a small click.
"Takashi says we need to prepare for some hotshot who's going to be there tonight."
"Mou! Tomoyo! It's Saturday too!" Sakura pouted in protest.
Some Ten Minutes Later
"To-mo-yo, we're gonna be late!" Sakura had been done changing in an instant. She'd never really cared much for her appearance. After all, why dress up when there was no one to impress? She brushed a comb through her silky locks before placing a barrette, pinning her bangs.
"Tomoyo!" she repeated loudly.
"Okay, okay, Sakura. Chill out a sec!" Tomoyo opened the door to her room and attempted to put on her shoes and walk at the same time. This resulted in her toppling over, but luckily Sakura caught her arm and pulled her to her feet. Giving the girl a glance, Sakura beamed at Tomoyo's choice of clothing.
"You look beautiful as usual Tomoyo"
Tomoyo smiled politely, "So do you Sakura."
They headed out the door, walking down tedious flights of steps. Sakura took a deep breath as the cool breeze filled their senses. The club was only two blocks away, they could take their time.
"Have you ever thought about love Kura?"
'Kura' had been her childhood nickname with Tomoyo. In return, Sakura would always call Tomoyo, Tomo.
"Love?" Sakura laughed. "As in guys wanting to, bluntly put, fuck you? Or show you off like a treasure and dump you the next day?"
Tomoyo frowned knowing her statement was true. They'd both had their fair share of guys, crappy ones at that.
"But just imagine it! Someone who will love you; someone who'll be there for you every step of the way."
Sakura nodded dreamily. "I wish Tomo. But reality-check here, what are the chances? I doubt I'll ever find my shining knight in armor."
Tomoyo nodded in agreement, looking forlorn, then took a peek at her watch.
"If we don't hurry, we really will be late!"
Laughing, they jogged down half a block and past the crowd of people who were grumbling and waiting for entrance.
"Wow," Sakura whispered, "It's only 3 too."
They came across the bouncer who immediately allowed them access. The line groaned, some muttering impatiently. Once inside, they immediately headed towards the bar. Well actually Sakura ran behind the bar counter and spun herself on a stool. But it was a typical Sakura move.
"You're so childish Kura!" Tomoyo giggled.
Sakura scrunched her nose, increasing the speed.
"But –"
"it's –"
"so – "
"fun!"
She squealed in delight. Tomoyo only shook her head before checking the supply of drinks.
"Hey girls, glad you're here!" It was their boss/friend/older brother, Takashi. Sakura stopped spinning and a rush of dizziness overcame her. She held her head and stumbled forward, the earth was spinning beneath her.
"So what's the deal about tonight?" Tomoyo inquired curiously. Takashi laughed at Sakura who was groaning on the floor before answering. "Oh, someone called and told me that the owner of this club was coming tonight. So we have to make it extra fine tonight."
Tomoyo nodded jokingly, "So what, we have to make it unusually sleazy?"
"Exactly." Takashi spoke seriously.
"Who's the owner anyway?" Sakura mumbled almost incoherently, rubbing her temples.
"Some Li guy. Probably an old geezer trying to get some action tonight." After a moment of thoughtful silence, he continued, "I've hired someone to make new uniforms just for tonight!"
Tomoyo squealed at this, "Yes! I can't wait!" She had always had a passion for trying on clothes.
Sakura moaned.
Takashi looked proudly over the club and his staff. The place looked tidier than usual, but he knew that by the end of the night, it would be a jumble. The designer had gone for the 'naughty schoolgirl' look and dressed each person in plaited mini skirts with knee socks and black heels. To complete the outfit was a white blouse with three buttons left open and a loosely hanging tie.
"Wow guys, we won't be disappointing anyone tonight!"
His eyes roamed to the two girls who stood out most. Sakura and Tomoyo. They were incredibly sexy, he could not deny that. They would definitely attract attention.
"Tomoyo, Sakura, you two will be bartending tonight okay?"
They stopped their chattering and looked at Takashi.
"Sure thing boss-man!" Sakura smiled eagerly bouncing her way behind the counter with Tomoyo behind her.
Takashi smiled at the bubbly, cheerful Sakura and the cool, collected Tomoyo. They were like little sisters to him. After all, that's why he had given them their jobs. It was also why he always sent them to do bartending. It was the safest job. He glanced at the clock hung high above the bar and spoke with the tiniest hint of nervousness; he would be in big trouble if the boss wasn't satisfied. He cleared his throat.
"The club will be open in a few minutes. Get ready, it's going to be a long night."
The bouncers opened the doors slowly as crowds began to cheer excitedly. People began to file in, filling empty seats quickly. Sakura watched as many unfamiliar and common faces entered. Two men in particular caught her attention. They had sunglasses on so she couldn't make out their faces. However, the four bodyguards behind them showed the men were probably important. Sakura nudged Tomoyo slightly. Tomoyo looked up at Sakura's direction and studied them for a few seconds before resuming her orders.
"They're coming Sakura, stop staring." She whispered quickly.
Sakura bit her lip, somehow intrigued by the mysterious men before finding that the counter was littered with many orders. She began filling them, not noticing the two men sat in front of her.
'Syaoran's scouting for faces already' Eriol thought.
"What would you like?" came a soft voice. He was glancing at the stage, wanting to catch the faces of the strippers.
Eriol mumbled distractedly, "Um, we'll take two Heinekens."
"Okay."
A soft clink was heard and two beer bottles were placed in front of them.
"You see anyone?" Eriol asked.
Syaoran shook his head, obviously disappointment marring his gorgeous features.
"They're okay. They'll satisfy these horny men, but they're not fit to be Miracle! models."
Eriol nodded in agreement. Syaoran removed his sunglasses taking another swig of his beer. This wasn't a good sign. Syaoran rarely even drank beer; he preferred wines among other delicacies. This meant he was frustrated, and a frustrated Syaoran was not good to deal with.
"You lied to me Eriol, some real beauties huh?"
Eriol spoke defensively, "I haven't been here before either. I guess the rumors aren't true after all." he frowned taking off his sunglasses and shoving them into his pocket. "I guess we'll have to see this show and decide for ourselves."
Syaoran lazy smirk graced his face when the DJ began his announcements.
"Tonight, we have a special show. These sexy ladies have learned new routines that'll be sure to satisfy your every fantasy. Enjoy." As he walked off the stage, smoke began to ascend filling the air quickly. Five girls stepped out in unison dressed in tight black leather. They began moving rhythmically, catching the attention of the customers. Before long, men were hooting and cheering for them to 'take it off'.
Syaoran listed their faults mentally.
'Her nose is too wide.'
'Her eyes are too big.'
'Her lips are too thin.'
'Ugh, I don't even understand what they see in that one.'
Nudging the blue-haired man next to him, he whispered,
"Seriously, this is the hottest club in town?"
Eriol nodded, "Best reviews and everything."
Syaoran looked disappointed. "I think we need a few changes here soon."
"I've had better, much better." Eriol was just as unhappy about this. He had expected better results from this, especially from all he had heard. "You want to leave? We need to go somewhere fun."
Syaoran stood from the stool and stretched lewdly.
"Can I get the bill, miss?" Eriol called out. He took out a fifty dollar bill from his pocket wondering what it had been doing there. Must have been pocket change or tips.
"Sure thing." came that same melodic voice. He looked at the waitress in front of him for the first time, his eyes traveling to her figure. She was beautiful. Eriol tilted his head to take a better look; he couldn't take his eyes off her. Why hadn't he noticed her earlier?
"Are you okay?" She asked nervously. Why was this man staring at her like a piece of meat? 'Is there something on my face?' she thought uncomfortably.
He seemed to snap out of his reverie tapping his companion on the shoulder.
"Syaoran look."
The man turned facing her. Syaoran Li. In all his glory, The Syaoran Li was standing in front of her. He glanced at her, his eyes raking her features. Tomoyo looked away avoiding eye contact. Oh god. She was flushing an unreasonable amount of red. She had never thought she'd meet him here of all places.
'Will do.' Syaoran thought with a small smile.
"Hi, I'm Syaoran Li, CEO of Miracle! Inc. and this" he said pointing back to the blue-haired man, "is Eriol Hiiragizawa, my second." Eriol smiled at her briefly.
Tomoyo played with the edge of her skirt nervously. She glanced at the corner of her eye at Sakura who was still frantically mixing drinks.
She smiled weakly, "I'm Tomoyo D-Daidouji."
"Tomoyo Daidouji", he repeated, "Nice name." Syaoran flashed his million-dollar smile before continuing.
"I think you'd make a great model," placing a card on the counter, he slid it across stopping right in front of her. "Give me a call."
Turning suavely, Syaoran turned and left with Eriol in tow. They were instantly covered by the four bodyguards who had seemed to appear out of thin air. Tomoyo held her breath hoping it wasn't a dream. When they were out of view, she pinched herself and found the situation was very much real.
"Sakura!" Tomoyo squealed.
"Hmm" came Sakura's exhausted reply.
Tomoyo grinned, her eyes then widened in disbelief as she sucked in her breath,
"Syaoran Li and Eriol Hiiragizawa were just here! And best of all, they want me to be their next model!"
Sakura seemed to awaken instantly as she screeched, "What! Congrats Tomoyo! It's your big break!"
Tomoyo embraced her best friend into a tight hug. She heard her best friend mumble just loud enough for her to hear, "I wish I'd seen them too!" They giggled in unison like hyper schoolgirls before they abruptly broke apart due to piling orders. They resumed their frenzied state, working. Tomoyo's heart leaped with joy. Boy-oh-boy, she just couldn't wait. Could you imagine it? Tomoyo Daidouji, Miracle! Inc's newest addition.
AN: Chapter 1 edited on May 6, 2006. 8:57 PM. Just three more chapters!