Buddies in Love

8/22/2019 Buddies in Love

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Buddies in LoveHey, What's up? I'm Sakura Kinomoto. Pleeeeeease, just call me Sakura and not anything else. I'm perfectly fine with my name, thank you very much. It's just that, I personally don't think my name goes with my personality. Sakura means "cherry blossom" in Japanese if you still don't know by now and, not that I hate it but well...it's so `girly-girly' for me! Do you guys know what I mean?Well, enough of that crap. You see, I am basically a no-nonsense type of girl. Ilike adventure and I absolutely love sports. You can't find me anywhere fussingwith the way I look. Unlike my other friends, who comb their hair every minuteuntil they go bald and put powder in their faces which makes them looks like ghosts, I am not, ABSOLUTELY not, interested in those things. Aargh! And the way they giggle whenever they see their crushes pass by... Man! What were they thinking?They say I'm much of a tomboy and that I don't really act like a young lady butI don't care. Growing up in a house with two guys around you, my dad and my irritating brother, no wonder I am like this! They admire me though, because they say I'm one hell of a tough chick. The tough part was nice but as for the chick part...I have yet to think about that. But still, I'm flattered by what they say."Sakura!" A voice shouted behind me. I instinctively turned around to look at the one who's calling me. I narrowed my eyes at the sight of the messy brown haired guy running to catch up with me."Syaoran. Nice seeing you late too."Syaoran snorted, falling into a step beside me. "Yeah, yeah, I know. Obviously,I overslept."

"You? Overslept?" I couldn't believe it. Syaoran is punctuality personified. I figured it goes with the discipline he learned from his family. "That would be the day!""I got really tired from that last training I had last night." He took a long sigh. "I am sooo busy, you know?"I rolled my eyes. " Oh my, how could I forget? The future leader of the Li clanshould train very hard everyday of his life to make him become more powerful andstronger! I should not really bother you now, don't I?" I mocked with fake sympathy in my voice."Ha ha ha. How sarcastic of you." Syaoran said in a cold monotone.I laughed. I really liked teasing Syaoran. Believe it or not, inspite of our constant teasing such as this, we're actually the best of friends. Syaoran used tobe my rival in capturing Clow cards and he's a jerk back then but now, I discove

red that he's not a bad guy after all. With the Clow cards being changed into Sakura cards, all those things were behind us now."Thank you very much." I replied. "Now, don't you think we should get a move-on?We're awfully late for our gym class, you know?"" I know. You don't have to remind me." He retorted. I guessed he's not really used to being late."Hey, look! Sensei's teaching basketball!" I whispered at him as we made our wayto our class. As I scanned the familiar faces of my classmates, my eyes caughtTomoyo waving her hands discreetly at us. I smiled and waved back at her.Tomoyo is also my bestfriend, believe it or not. She's my friend since I was still like, really young and we look nothing in common. She's really neat and welldressed and she's good at making dresses but I don't like those stuffs. I'm moreof a jeans and t-shirt girl; I only wear skirts unless I really need to but oth

erwise, you can't make me! But inspite of our differences, we are always there to help one another."This should be good," Syaoran whispered back."Li! Kinomoto!" Our Sensei looked at us disapprovingly. "Seems like you two arelate! I'm surprised at you Li but as for Kinomoto-" he smiled amusingly."I'm sorry, sir. This won't happen again." Syaoran said.As for me, I need not bother to explain and ask for apologies. Our Sensei knew better than that; I am usually late no matter what I do."Well, just take your place there with your classmates so we could get on with what I'm going to teach you today." Our Sensei instructed.


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"Hai!"I squeezed at the space beside Eriol and Tomoyo, with Syaoran following suit behind me."Hey guys." Eriol greeted. "I can't believe you're late Syaoran."I saw at the corner of my eyes how Syaoran smirked at Eriol's comments. I nudgedhim and mouthed, "Be nice". I always can't help but wonder why he never liked Eriol that much. Oh, they're not really enemies...they're more like rivals. As what they say, they are both popular, cute and athletic. But from what I've noticed, Syaoran seems to be the only one bothered by it."I overslept." Syaoran mumbled.I averted my gaze from them and listen to the class attentively. Gym class is myfavorite class, obviously. I was right that what we're going to take up today is basketball."Now class, I will set up two on two for today's exercise." Sensei said. "Sincethe class have even numbers of guys and girls, I will pair up a guy and a girl against another team. The first one to make three points is the winner."After that, the teacher called out the names of who are going to get paired with."Li and...Kinomoto!" he shouted. "You're the first pair to play against...Hiragizawa and Muyo!""We're partners." Syaoran said."Obviously," I grinned. Syaoran is good at sports so it doesn't bother me to getpaired up with him."Good luck," Eriol called out as he passed by us.

I smiled at him. "Good luck,"The four of us made our way to the court and took our positions. I seized up myopponents. =Muyo would be quite easy with her small figure and everything but Hiragizawa would be a bit difficult to handle. But we can manage that! = I thought.As soon as the ball was launched in the air, I made a quick dive for it feelingMuyo's body slamming against mine. I felt the ball in contact with my hand and as soon as my feet landed back in the ground I passed the ball to Syaoran. I watched him make a quick move, doing fakes every now and then, but Eriol is also fast to keep up. I waved my hand, urging him to pass the ball on to me. He nodded after seeing me then, passed it on to me. With Muyo's weak defense against me, Idarted across the court and made a jump shot. The ball went in."Nice one!" Syaoran shouted amidst the cheering.

The game continued for about a few minutes and so until the game was tied to 2-2. Eriol managed to score both points for his team, which makes sense because Muyo is not really much of help to him. What she just do is go after me and try toshove me away from my partner.=Maybe the sight of Eriol and Syaoran playing so close to her is too much for her! = I couldn't help but giggle at the thought, noticing how the girl would smile every now and then at the two guys.I saw an open area and made a motion for Syaoran to hand the ball over to me again. As he just made his way to pass the ball to me, Eriol successfully managed to intercept the ball and caught it."Hoe!" I impulsively shouted in surprise. However, I saw that glint in Syaoran'seyes and knew right away that he'll gonna make sure to get the ball back no matter what. Syaoran would never let Eriol upstage him. Just as what she predicted,

Syaoran block the ball from Eriol just as he was about to make a shot, then Syaoran ran quickly to the other side of the court and made a jump. The ball went and Swwooosh! A soft sound could be heard as the ball went in."Yes!" I jumped up and down happily. I ran to give Syaoran a high five. "Nice shot you got there!"Syaoran grinned happily at me. "Thanks! You're great too! We really make a greatteam, you know?"I nodded. Syaoran and I definitely make a great team. If things will keep up theway such as this, we would come a long way together.I took a long, deep sigh. I never did understand why we have to go at Sakura's h


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ouse and celebrate after school. I mean, we just won the basketball game for ourgym class...it's not really like we've won the championship or anything!= If only she's not my close friend, I wouldn't think twice about saying `no' toher, = I thought. = But since she is, I can't help but agree. = Well, you couldsay I'm bias. (You sure are Syaoran! =P)"You know what, Tomoyo? I'm planning to join the varsity next year," Sakura said.Tomoyo nodded in encouragement. "You should. I'm awfully sure you'll going to make the team."As the two girls chatted and continue to walk ahead of me, I watched amusingly at Sakura whose eyes seems to twinkle at the excitement of talking about something such as sports. I've always thought how funny it is that a girl as boyish as she is would get all bubbly and amazed over such little things. I thought she would be tougher than that. But after all, she's still a girl and not a guy so I guess, she still has this soft and sweet side of hers that I sometimes see."Syaoran," Sakura's voice interrupted my thoughts. She stopped to whirl around and take a look at me. "You're being quiet back there."I noticed Tomoyo giggled at what Sakura had just said."Sakura, Syaoran IS always like that. Seems like you're still not used at him being quiet all of a sudden, eh?"= Precisely, = I couldn't help but agree at Tomoyo."I guess so. I think it's scary how he would become suddenly quiet. It's like, he's plotting something against me." Sakura said in that familiar teasing voice of hers.

"You bet, I would." I smirked. Sakura returned my gesture with a big grin."You wish! But seriously though, are you still ok back there?""Yeah. I'm perfectly fine." I answered. "Come on, let's continue our walk so wecould get into your house as soon as possible."= And get this thing over and done with, = I added silently.Maybe you're wondering why I am acting like this. Actually, I'm not really against having dinner at Sakura's place. In fact, hanging out with my friends is a BIT better than training...notice how I emphasized the word bit. I guess you knewby now that I'm not really Mr. Congeniality. Oh, don't get the wrong ideas, it'sjust that I'm really shy and everything so that's why I don't make friends thateasily. In fact, back in Hongkong, the only friends that I have are my family and relatives. If you would even consider that as friends! Anyway, I'm still gladthat I managed to make a few friends here in Tomoeda because it seems to me tha

t people here are, I dunno...nicer and friendlier, I guess. So you can see how glad I am when my mother agreed to let me stay in Tomoeda until I finish my studies, with Wei around to take care of me. But of course, I must still go back to Hongkong to take care of a few matters regarding my obligations being the futureLi clan leader.Anyway, I'm getting way ahead of what I was supposed to tell you (Finally! He noticed it! 0_o). Let's go back to why I never quite like hanging out at Sakura'shouse. You see, there's only one reason...correction, two reasons. First reasonis Kero, which is the guardian of the Clow Cards (now Sakura Cards), who I personally think looks like a reject stuff animal (Aaaaw...you're mean, Syaoran! I like him! ^_^). The other one is of course, none other than Sakura's older brother, Touya."Finally, we're already here!" Sakura announced. "Come in, guys!" She gestured f

or us to walk inside. I let Tomoyo go ahead of me since I am in no hurry to enter."Hmmm...seem's like nobody's home." Sakura mumbled. I thought so too, until hisbrother walked out from the kitchen."You're just about in time, squirt! I just finished cooking our dinner!" Touya greeted her, accompanied with a `brotherly' ruffling of her hair. I saw how Sakura's face contorted in annoyance for being called squirt and for messing her already messy hair. But really, there's nothing new to this scene; those two siblings are always like that."Hey, we have visitors!" Touya said, finally noticing me and Tomoyo. "Hi, Tomoyo


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! Good evening."Tomoyo bowed slightly and said, "Good evening too, Touya."Guess what Sakura's brother did after seeing me? He greeted me with his usual glare. As for me, I just glared back at him. I was determined to do the same thinguntil I get something better to do."Brother!" Sakura sweatdropped. "Show some manners, please! They're my visitors!" she hissed. At that, Touya mumbled something which sounds like "Good evening,Li Syaoran," then continued to glare back at me."Come on, you two," Sakura interrupted again. I was forced to break our little glaring contest to look at her. "Why don't we have dinner now?" she continued."Oh, well" Touya sighed. "You guys just go ahead. I'm going to wait for Yukito first. I'll eat dinner with him later.""How about Dad?""Dad called to say he's going to be late today. He said we just go ahead and eatwithout him; he's just going to eat at the university." Touya answered.At the motion of Sakura inviting us at the kitchen, both Tomoyo and I turned around to follow her inside. As soon as we reached the table, we settled down and took our seats.= I just hope that dinner tastes good = I thought, suddenly feeling hungry.**TOMOYO**"Here, help yourselves," Sakura said, offering the spaghetti to me (Spaghetti for dinner? Hmmm...Anyways I've been thinking about spag so I guess that's the first food I can think of ^_^).I took a small portion of it and passed the bowl to Syaoran who willingly accept

ed it."The food sure tastes good." I commented. "Your brother is also a good cook.""Yeah. It almost makes up for him being such a jerk. I guess we learned a lot about cooking from dad." Sakura replied."Hey guys, have you heard the news?" I asked suddenly remembering something."What news?" Syaoran asked."The school is going to hold a Valentine's party this coming February. Can you believe it? There's even going to be a dance!" I told them excitedly.It would be an understatement to say that both Sakura and Syaoran looked bored at the news. In fact, I think it would be better if I said nothing at all. I think doing that will have the same effect on their faces."So?" Syaoran finally said after about a few seconds or so. "What's the big deal?"

"Don't you get it?" I said exasperatedly. "This is the first formal party that the school's going to have! I mean, only high school kids have dances you know,""Oh well, I'm not going." Sakura said, shrugging her shoulders."Me too," Syaoran piped in.I looked at them in awe. Sometimes I wonder if these two were normal at all. Okay, I must admit, Sakura is tomboyish and Syaoran's a bit cynical about things but geez...I mean, I'm not really expecting that they would jump up and down happily at the news but can they at least be a little bit happy about it? Just a bit?Especially after I've heard that the school's really going to prepare for it."That's too bad, though. I heard that we are all oblige to come."The looks on their faces were the exact opposite of what they are when I first told them about the dance. The two looked as if a bomb has exploded right in front of them.

"Wha-what!" Sakura sputtered. "Why would they require that?""I don't know. Maybe they want us to feel for once how it felt to be all formaland everything." I answered."But I don't even have a dress to wear!" Sakura continued to complain."No need to worry! I'm gonna do your dress for free!" I said excitedly.I mean, this is finally going to be my chance to design a dress for her. I looked at Sakura as I already imagine her wearing this beautiful dress that I alreadyhad in my mind. I know she'll look absolutely pretty in it. If only she'll learned to wear skirts more often and try to do her hair more nicely, Sakura will definitely have a lot of guys trailing behind her, asking her for a date. You see,


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Sakura likes to wear only loose t-shirts and jeans which absolutely do not do her any good except to hide her nice body. There's really no problem with it actually, it's just that, if you're gonna wear the same thing over and over again, it's kind of tiring to the eyes. And Sakura always sports t-shirts and jeans fora casual wear. And about he hair...well, it's really beautiful but she's not combing her hair that often. Oh, it doesn't look like dirty it's just that, it looks kind of messy. I think her hair will help emphasize the beautiful frame of herface if only she'll add somebeautiful clips in it."What? No way!" she replied hastily. "Don't get me wrong Tomoyo, I know you makegreat dresses, it's just that I don't want to wear one! Don't you think I couldjust volunteer to be on the organizing committee and well, maybe I'm not gonnabe required to attend the party if I helped out?" Sakura asked hopefully."I don't know. But I'm sure they'll gonna discuss the party to the students sometime soon."Sakura sighed. "I certainly hope soon. I have to ask a lot of questions to them.""Yeah, they better be." Syaoran nodded in agreement. "I mean, Sakura in a dress?For god's sake!" He laughed at the idea.I couldn't help but laugh at what he just said. I'm not really laughing at the idea of Sakura wearing a dress but at the way Syaoran said it. He makes it soundlike Sakura acquired a disease just by wearing a dress."You're sooooo mean, Syaoran!" I said between laughs. I saw Sakura scowling at Syaoran.

"No really, I mean it! It will just be the same if you imagined me wearing a dress!" He laughed even harder at that. Sakura who can't take it anymore shoved Syaoran at his chair, making him fall off (I personally think he fall off his chairbecause of laughing =P). However, Syaoran was not bothered; he just sat back again and continued to laugh while Sakura swatted him playfully in his arm.You know, I think those two looks so kawaii together, don't you think so? (Yeah,I do!) If only those two will notice how cute the other one is, they would makea great couple. I mean, look at them! They may be opposite in some ways, but they're compatible in more ways than one! It also doesn't hurt that both are really good looking. However, both of them don't seem to be interested in guys and girls.I grinned at the idea. = Who knows, maybe this upcoming Valentines day, cupid will finally get them together. = I couldn't help but sighed dreamily. I guess I'm

pretty much a romantic person myself.A VALENTINE'S CARD**SAKURA**I feel my head aching. I feel like I'm going to be sick. I feel like shouting. This, I couldn't take anymore."Kawaiiiiiiiiii!" Tomoyo, Rika, Naoko and Chiharu cried in unison.= Whatever. = I rolled my eyes.Yeah, I know what you guys must be thinking. Of course, I'm acting weird. Call me whatever you want and I don't care."What's so kawaii about it?" I finally asked them. We are just talking...I mean,THEY are talking about that dance and suddenly they get all giggly and dreamy about it. You should've seen the looks on their faces, if I'm not in such a bad mood, I would've laughed myself. They got this funny and weird look thing in thei

r faces with matching starry eyes (*_*)."Sakura, it's so kawaii because the Valentine's party is going to be sooo romantic!" Chiharu squealed in excitement which made the hairs on my skin rise."And don't forget about the dance!" Rika reminded me."How could I forget?" I mumbled glumly."And the dress!" Tomoyo added, which made my head ache even more."Definitely romantic!" Naoko nodded in agreement. "I've even heard some of the guys already talking about who they want to ask out for the dance.""You are so lucky Chiharu! I'm sure Yamazaki is going to ask you to be his partner to the dance!" Rika giggled.


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"I just wish someone will ask me," Naoko sighed dreamily.I continue to stare at them in misery. You might say I'm exaggerating, but really, I can't help but to feel this way. I even went to school early just so I could get to homeroom in time, for me to be able to ask our Sensei about the dance.And you know what? He said that we are DEFINITELY obliged to come. Regardless ofwhether we are in the organizing committee or not. Of course, I asked for a valid reason as to why is it mandatory and he answered me with something like, "Kinomoto, this is the first formal party that the school prepared, especially for you sixth graders (In our country, the 6th graders are graduating students in elementary. Just told you in case you're wondering what's so special about sixth graders. ^_~). We should all be there to support the school." And our Sensei finished it off with a big, goofy grin as opposed to my sulking, frowning face. Thenafter that, my head suddenly ached and I was in a bad mood.= I'm going to make a complete fool out of myself, = I thought hopelessly as I imagined myself wearing a dress. I shuddered at the thought."A penny for your thoughts?" A calm voice said, interrupting my thoughts. I looked up to see Eriol, smiling at me. "You seem to have a big problem. Maybe I canhelp?"I smiled back at Eriol. I've always thought he was such a nice, polite guy. = Too bad, I don't like guys romantically = I laughed inwardly."Thanks. But nobody can help me.""Come on! All problems can be solved!" He urged."Nah. It's about the dance." I smirked. "I really don't want to go.""Really? I've always thought everybody wants to go. Half the school is already b

uzzing about it in excitement." Eriol informed me."So are you considering going to the dance?" I asked. Not that I care; I just don't have something to say."Maybe. It's no big deal." He shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly."Easy for you to say!" I complained while looking at Tomoyo and the others stillhappily chatting away. "You wouldn't be forced to wear a dress!""Yeah, we wouldn't be wearing dresses but we got to wear, you know, tuxedos?"I frowned at him. "I'd rather wear that!"Eriol laughed at me. I know, he's thinking how weird I am."Sakura, you don't have to worry so much. The party's going to be for one nightonly!" Eriol sat down in the chair next to me. "Besides, I'm sure you're going to look absolutely beautiful in a dress."I looked at him in surprise. I mean, Eriol thinks I look beautiful in a dress? H

e must be kidding! Oh well, I figured out that he's just trying to be nice to me. You know, just to make me smile and everything. However, if I am your ordinary, sweet and doll-loving (I don't know what word to say! =P) kind of girl, maybeEriol's compliments could've lifted my spirits. But guess what? I'm not. So whatthe heck!But still, I'm not rude so I just ended up saying, "Thanks.""And besides, you girls are so lucky!" Eriol continued. "You're spared of the burden of asking somebody out."I shrugged. "I guess so.""Hey," Syaoran said as he approached us.I saw him scowling as he takes the seat in front of us. I don't know if Syaoran's acting like that because of the news regarding the dance or because of Eriol'spresence. Remember, Syaoran and Eriol were not really the best of friends. But

I guess, he is always scowling so there should be nothing new to it. The rare times that he smiled and laughed were those times that he teases me.= Oh, well = I looked at Syaoran who is still frowning at us. = I guess, miseryloves company. =**SYAORAN**I honestly don't want to approach them. I mean, seeing Eriol around will not help me improve my mood. But I guess I'll look pretty stupid if I just sit all alone in my desk while I wait for Sakura to come around and finish her nice little chat with him. Oh, I forgot to mention. Sakura and I always walk home together. You know, since we're best friends and everything.


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= Why are they still hanging around? = I wondered referring to the group. The group by the way, consists of Tomoyo, Rika, Naoko, Chiharu, Eriol and Sakura. = Classes are already finished. =I could see Eriol smiling that annoying smile of his when I finally managed to approach them."Hey," I greeted non-enthusiastically. I saw Sakura staring at me as I sat downin front of them."What's with the long face?" Sakura asked, obviously teasing me. Of course, sheknows why. She just likes to irritate me even more."Ask yourself." I retorted, teasing her back."Please don't." Sakura sighed in annoyance. "I've heard enough about the dance from them." She glanced at Tomoyo and the others."What about us?" Tomoyo butted in, finally snapping back into reality. Finally,they were able to steer away from their conversation regarding the upcoming dance.= That stupid dance, = I muttered to myself.That dance completely ruined my mood for the whole day. Especially after hearingthat it's mandatory. Oh, how I really hate formal gatherings! I remembered backthen in HongKong how our family used to hold formal gatherings. They would makeme wear these formal and stiff clothes which makes me feel like wearing a straightjacket. And besides, I don't know how to dance. I'll probably end up steppinginto my partner's feet for the entire dance. As if, I'm gonna ask someone to bemy date!"We were just talking about the dance and how you guys are so excited by it." Er

iol replied."Well, isn't everybody?" Chiharu asked in awe. I noticed that Yamazaki was not with her. I mean, they are always together. Anyway, not that it mattered."Everybody besides Sakura and Syaoran, that is." Tomoyo pointed out.= My sentiments, exactly. = At least, Tomoyo noticed that."I still don't get it why you guys are so pissed off by it." Rika commented.I saw Sakura rolled her eyes. "I told you, I hate wearing a dress! Besides, I don't have a partner. Nobody is going to ask me out for sure." She waved her handdismissively. "And frankly, I don't care.""Who says you need a date to get to the party?" Tomoyo asked incredulously. "I'mgoing by myself if nobody asked me out!""Yeah, me too." Rika and Naoko agreed."Well, I still think it sucks." I said, breaking my silence.

"Why? Don't you think that's it cool how we guys finally have the reason to asksomebody out?" Eriol asked me. "I mean, don't you have somebody else in your mind that you've been crushing on lately?"I scowled even more at him. I mean, for a guy, Eriol could be so much into minding other people's business."I DON'T have a crush on anybody." I grunted."Aaaww...you're not even asking somebody to be your partner for the dance?" Naoko asked. I just shook my head vigorously for an answer."You'll gonna break a lot of girl's heart, Li!" Rika smiled. "Lots of girls arewilling to be your partner!"I looked at her in amazement. I can't believe that the Valentine's party are going to turn them all into...I don't know what word to say, I mean they all soundso mushy and everything I'm beginning to think they're possessed or something. I

am soooooo glad Sakura is not like that, but of course if she's like them, she's not gonna be even my bestfriend.I saw at the corner of my eyes how Sakura laughed at my discomfort.= She must be really enjoying this, having to watch me in my annoyance = I sighed. I just really wanted to go home."Don't you think Sakura looks pretty in a dress?" Eriol continued to ask much tomy annoyance."Hoe!" Sakura exclaimed in surprised.I saw how Tomoyo, Rika, Naoko and Chiharu giggled while Eriol smiles, again, that creepy smile of his.


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I couldn't blame Sakura if she got all surprised and everything. I mean, askingquestions like that... I looked at Eriol in irritation. What is he getting up to, asking questions like that? Anyway, to satisfy their curiosity because it seems to me that we won't leave school until they get my answer, I tried to imagineSakura in a dress. I frowned hard, while thinking. I mean, come on! This is Sakura we're talking about. She never wears skirts besides our school uniform! I took a glance at her messy hair. And her hair is like, to say it nicely, blown outof proportions."I think..." I saw how Eriol and the girls leaned in closer in expectation of myanswer while Sakura frowns at me, "She's going to look really funny!" I laughed.And then I felt my body being shaken so hard until I thought my brain's gonna fall off!"I should've know what you're going to say!" Sakura said angrily.The whole gang seemed quiet as they watch Sakura literally yanked me out of my chair. I was surprised she's so mad at me, I mean, I was always teasing her aboutwearing a dress. And now, she got affected at my joke?"You are so insensitive!" She continued to glare at me. "But I guess, you are soright Syaoran!" And then she laughed while we all looked at her in awe. Sometimes you know, I think she's gone crazy."Gotcha there for a minute didn't I?" Sakura asked happily. "Thought I got mad,huh? Well, as if!"I sighed in relief. Yes, I admit I may be a jerk at times but still I don't wanther to get mad at me. She's still my friend, after all.

**SAKURA**"Come on, you guys! Let's go home!" I stood up from my chair, still giggling.I can't believe they fell for my act. Especially Syaoran. You should've seen thelook on his face when I acted angry at his little joke about me wearing a dress. He was really surprised. Excuse me, as if I care about what he thinks of me, whether I look pretty or what in a dress!"Hey, aren't you going to the lockers or something?" I asked them."No. Why?" Tomoyo asked."Well, I still have to pass by my lockers to get some stuffs and leave some of the books I have today. Don't you think we could go there for a while before heading home?""Sure, no prob." Syaoran nodded along with the others."Arigatou!" I bowed slightly in gratitude.

When we finally reached my locker, I immediately turned the combination of the look and fumbled. I yanked the door open but it wouldn't budge."Need help?" Eriol offered."No, thanks" I said while still yanking the door. "This is always like this.""Yeah. Locker's here must be pretty old already. Mine is also always like that."Eriol said.I nodded absentmindedly. I was concentrating hard on opening my locker. Finally,I got to open it after about a few more pounding and yanking."At last," I muttered to myself. I was just about to unload the books from my bag when I noticed a pink envelope lying inside my locker.= What could be this? = I wondered silently as I picked up the envelope. I almost thought that it was not mine when I read `Sakura'. My name was written in theenvelope by somebody's handwriting that I wasn't able to recognize. I decided to

open it anyway since curiosity is already getting the best of me. The enveloperevealed a card in the shape of the heart.= What the..? =Sakura,Your emerald eyes is all I could ever think of.Will you be my valentine?*****It was unsigned. I stared at the card in shock. I don't know who could've written this. I really have no idea.I turned around at the group and frowned. I just have to ask them.


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" Okay. So who's trying to be cute?" I asked waving the card right in their faces.NEW FACE**TOMOYO**I stared at what seems to be a heart-shaped card that Sakura is waving right infront of us.I peered closely to take a good look. "What is that?" I asked curiously."THIS, is a card." Sakura spatted out, looking very disgusted. She handed me thecard so I could see it for myself. "Somebody's idea of a sick joke."Rika, Naoko and Chiharu quickly clustered around me as I anxiously read the card. You could see how we are all wondering what is written in it that could get Sakura all bent out of shape."Kawaii." Chiharu whispered ever so softly after reading the card, obviously lowering her voice so that Sakura couldn't hear her.I smiled discreetly and nodded at Chiharu. I certainly agree with her. This, isdefinitely kawaii material. I mean, somebody asking you out to be his valentinethis early? I also liked the fact that this person chose not to reveal his trueidentity; it really adds up to the mystery and makes this whole thing more romantic.However, as I took a glance at Sakura who is busy closing her locker, I decidednot to speak out my thoughts. I certainly do not want her to get even more pissed off.After reading the card, I handed it back to Sakura who just carelessly tossed itinside her bag.

"What's the matter with the card?" Syaoran asked."You haven't read it, do you?" Sakura retorted. "Ask them. I don't want to tellit to you myself. It's so cheesy."Syaoran turned to look at me with his eyebrow raised. He was obviously expectinga more decent answer from me."It's a valentine's card." I explained. "Someone is asking Sakura out to be hisvalentine.""Really?" Syaoran's face looked completely surprised. I could see a small smileplaying on his lips but he was wise to quickly wipe it off away. I figured out that as much as Syaoran seems to be amused by the card and how he really wants totease Sakura, he must've decided not to risk it anymore. Even Syaoran doesn't want to mess up with her."Do you have even the slightest clue or idea who could've wrote it?" Eriol asked

."No." Sakura crossed her arms. "You guys, do you have any idea who could've donethis?"The rest of us shook our heads to answer her question."No idea." We chorused.Honestly, I don't have a single clue. I try to remember our classmates who couldpossibly do this, but it seems to me that no one has a crush on Sakura. Well, not that I know of anyway. Even though Sakura is popular and has a lot of friendswho are guys, nobody seems to be interested at her romantically and gives her special treatment. They all treat Sakura as though she's `one of the boys'.= How about...Eriol or Syaoran? = I wondered, looking at the two guys intently.Syaoran is Sakura's only male bestfriend for years now, and it would not be impossible to say if he ended up liking her. They are definitely close with each oth

er and can be seen most of the time together, not to mention the fact that theyagree on a lot of things. Yeah, they DO agree on a lot of things inspite of their constant bickering. So in other words, they are compatible.However, as I glanced back at Syaoran whose face seems to be devoid of any emotions, it makes me think twice at the idea that this all his doing. I also noticedearlier how Syaoran's face looked completely bewildered and surprised upon learning of Sakura's mysterious admirer.= In fairness, he looks like he doesn't know anything about it. =So that leaves me with Eriol. As for him, well...he's always been a nice, sweetand polite guy (What's up with Tomoyo? She makes it sound like Eriol is so... ^_


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~ He he. You guys know what I mean.). Not only to Sakura but also to any other girl that he knows of. Though I could say that, Eriol and Sakura are pretty goodfriends too. However, during their previous encounters way back then (back to card capturing days of Sakura), it seems to me that Eriol never showed any specialkind of attention to Sakura. And if he did, it looks to me like it's just plainbrotherly affection to me.= So if it's not them...then who could it be? =I guess you could say I'm completely stumped. However, I could still be wrong. Ifinally gave up on thinking who it is because I've already run out of ideas. Ijust have to wait and see who is Sakura's secret admirer when he finally revealed himself. Which I hope would be soon."I just wish that the person responsible for this would quit it," Sakura muttered furiously. "It isn't funny.""You know Sakura, I have the feeling that this guy is serious about asking you out." Rika commented, looking at Sakura meekly."What do you mean?" Sakura asked.I cleared my throat. " I think what Rika's trying to say is, that this guy wouldn't go to this kind of length just to ask you out. Unless he has other reasons,then he must have a crush on you, Sakura."Sakura laughed at what I've just said. "That's absurd! Anyway, who would take him seriously? He doesn't even have the guts to show himself to me!""I think that's all part of the plan. It makes him more exciting and intriguing." Eriol shrugged at us, looking as if it's the obvious answer."This is certainly going to be fun. I wonder who is Sakura's boyfriend will be."

Syaoran teased lightly, winking at us."He's not going to be my boyfriend!" Sakura's eyes widened in horror. "Shut up,Syaoran!"Syaoran raised his arms in mock surrender. "Hey, knock it off. I'm just trying to make you laugh."Sakura glared, as usual, at Syaoran. "Well, it's not funny."We all sweatdropped as we watched the two doing again what they do best. Teasingand arguing.= Things never change... = I sighed. Seems like Syaoran is back to his old, teasing self. I almost thought that he's not going to tease Sakura today because ofwhat happened but still, Syaoran is again up to his antics."I have an idea." Eriol interrupted. "Why don't I treat you guys to a little sundae cone just before we finally go home? So that we could all cool our heads off

. What do you think?" He looked at us expectantly."Thanks, but what for? You don't have to treat me." Syaoran said sarcastically.I could see Sakura stepping Syaoran on his foot."Ouch!" Syaoran shouted in surprise. "What did you do that for?"Sakura whispered at Syaoran but still it was audible enough for us to hear. "That's because you`re acting like a jerk again, Syaoran. Be nice to Eriol for a change."I noticed Syaoran glaring behind Eriol's back. I know he wasn't too keen on Eriol being a nice, little gentleman. I remembered Syaoran saying before how he doesn't trust Eriol on his acts and never will he. I think it was because how Eriolmanaged to deceive us that he is the half reincarnation of Clow Reed and that heeven placed Sakura's life in danger. As much as Syaoran doesn't want to admit it, he is as protective of Sakura as I am.

Sakura looked at Eriol sheepishly. "Uh, don't mind him." She said, referring toSyaoran. "But really you don't have to do that,""That's okay with me, Sakura. Besides this is also a long day for all of us. Especially after all those exams that we had earlier." Eriol smiled. "I think we deserve a little break for all our hard work. Don't you think so?"Sakura glanced at the rest of us, trying to check if we're okay about it. I justshrugged nonchalantly when she looked at me. It's okay with me if we head off first to eat sundae although I am also not too sure about the idea of Eriol treating all of us. It's a bit embarrassing for him to splurge his money on us."Well, if you insist. But, we would go only to the ice cream parlor with you if


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you'll let us pay for our own sundaes. How about that?" Sakura offered, trying to make a deal out of him."But, I was the one who invited-"Naoko cut Eriol's sentence halfway. "No buts, Eriol. Don't be silly. We could pay for the sundae ourselves."Eriol grinned at us. "What can I say? I don't have the chance to object especially with you guys `ganging' up on me.""You're wise to know that. So what are we waiting for? Let's go!" I said, grinning back at him.**SAKURA**"Sakura," A voice said in my dreams.= The voice sounds familiar = I thought."Sakura," The voice repeated again.I tossed and turned at my bed, wondering groggily who could it be that was calling for me. After another few more seconds, the voice suddenly became completelyloud as if yelling at me."SAKURA!"At that, I bolted upright in my bed at surprise and covered my ears. I lazily looked up at the yellow-winged creature hovering above me."WAKE UP!"I scratched my head in annoyance. Talk about bad timing. I was just sleeping sopeacefully in my bed when none other than Keroberos shouted at me."Okay, okay! I'm already wide awake, see?" I tried to open my eyes widely but itwouldn't cooperate. My eyelids feel so heavy that I can't help but closed it ag

ain.= And the bed sure looks cozy... = I thought lazily."Hey, you're dozing off again!" I could feel Kero shaking my head slightly, trying to wake me up. "If you're not going to wake up, you are going to be late! AGAIN!""Huh?" I jerked back in mild surprise. I'm going to be late again. So what elseis new? However, my subconscious mind is telling me something.= Math class...first subject... = The thought took me at such surprise that I immediately stood up from my bed and lunged for my bathroom door in one swift motion. It really pays to be an athlete, you know. Or else I wouldn't be able to dothese things in a flash."OH NO! Math is my first subject today!" I wailed while turning on the shower. "I can't afford to be late at that class! Especially when I'm on the verge of fai

ling it!"I quickly grab my uniform which I prepared last night and hang it up inside thebathroom. "Why didn't you wake me up earlier, Kero?" I asked.Kero looked at me in amusement. "I've been trying to wake you up, not only oncebut THRICE! And on different times!"I sighed. I am really hopeless at being punctual."I'll be taking my very quick shower now, Kero!"I've finished my shower at an astounding world record speed. As soon as I finished changing into my uniform, I made a mad dash out of my bedroom, waving reminders at Kero along the way."Just sneak out into the kitchen for your food, will you? I am really in such ahurry!"Kero smirked. "What's new?"

I was about to make a quick comment but decided against it. I am really going tobe late and I don't have the time to argue with him. I quickly got down the stairs, taking two steps at a time. I found my brother and my dad already eating their breakfast."Good morning dad!"Dad looked up at me, smiling meaningfully. I know, he's already used at this scene; me always in a hurry and scrambling to eat my food."Good morning." He greeted back."Hey, you're awfully early today squirt!" Touya, my brother, commented. "Reallyearly for your second subject!"


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"Good morning to you too, brother." I mumbled through gritted teeth. He's luckythat I am in a hurry or else I wouldn't give him the time of his day.I immediately stood up from my desk right after eating my breakfast. I grabbed my backpack and my roller blades."Got to go," I called out, waving at them."Hey, monster! You forgot to comb your hair!" Touya reminded me."I am not a monster!" I said menacingly. "And I don't care about my hair! I haveno time for that!""Anyway, when did you ever have the time do your hair?" Touya continued to tease."Come on, Touya. Stop that." My dad interrupted. "Sakura, just be careful out onthe road, okay? I know you're in a hurry but your safety should always come first.""I know dad." I reached out to give him a quick kiss on his cheek. "Bye," I finally said to them before rushing out of the house.In a few minutes, after a couple of twists and turns along the road with my ever-trusty roller blades, I finally managed to reach the school in one piece. No cuts, No bruises. You could say that I'm really good at rollerblading. If it wasn't for my roller blades, I don't know how I could manage to reach my school in time. I am just really lucky to just have mastered the sport.The second bell rang as I entered. I paused on the threshold, facing the classroom full of familiar faces and a short, pudgy man who is none other than my Mathteacher.Our Sensei smiled at me. "Well, young lady, you made it just under the wire. Ano

ther second and you would have been in trouble, Miss Kinomoto.""Well, just go down and take your seat, okay?" he continued.Still panting and gasping for air, I made my way to my desk which is between Tomoyo and Syaoran. I flopped down tiredly in my seat as I arranged my bag carefully under my desk."Nice entrance, I must say." Syaoran mumbled to me. " I think you should do something about your hair. Looks like you've been in a hurricane out there."I patted my hair ruefully and work out my fingers through its tangles. I know, my hair is a complete mess. But I have no choice to fix myself especially if I know I'm going to be late.Just then, the door opened, revealing a new face standing tentatively at the door. The rest of the class noticed her too, because I could see that they are alsolooking at the girl with curiosity.

"Oh, come in! Come in!" Our Sensei said, motioning for the girl to come inside.The girl, whose face looks completely flushed followed his orders and walked uncomfortably in front of the whole class."Class, I would like to introduce to you your new classmate, Miss...""Anami. Anami Hana." The girl drawled in a soft voice.Out of the corner of my eyes, I couldn't help but noticed that the guys, including Syaoran is gaping at her, admiring her beauty. I could see Syaoran looking atthe new student with interest.= I wonder...? = I thought, looking meaningfully at Syaoran.SPACE CADET**SYAORAN**"Anami. Anami Hana".I heard the new girl say. My eyes followed her every move asshe talked to our Sensei about something and when she smiled timidly at the res

t of the class.I can't really explain it, but there's something about Anami that definitely caught my attention. For the first time in my life, I was actually staring at a girl for too long. Sheeesh... even I, myself, is surprised at my reaction! You see,not to brag or anything, but I do know that a lot of girls are trying to catchmy attention but they ended up failing to do so. I must admit that some of themare really pretty but still, I don't care. And you may ask why I don't care at all? Hmmm...let's just put it this way: It's simply because I'm not interested ingirls. In ANY girls, in fact. I'm not a woman hater, of course but hey, give mea break! I'm only just twelve years old! I haven't even reached the peak of my


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adolescence! (Lol! Would Syaoran actually say that? ^_^)And now...here I am, staring at Anami who is just a newcomer in school? Can I honestly say to myself that I actually like her already? Boy, am I really gettingweird by the minute! (You are really weird...O_o)"...infront of Mr. Li Syaoran. Could you please raise your hand Li to identify yourself?".I vaguely hear our Sensei said. Obviously, as what you can notice, mymind is busy drifting off somewhere else."Psst! Earth to Syaoran!.Sakura whispered, waving her hand infront of my face tocatch my attention. And if that wasn't enough, I even feel her poking me gentlyon my ribs maybe just to make sure that I'm still alive. "Hello, are you stillthere?"I managed to snap out of my thoughts to take a glance at Sakura. I saw her frowning at me and she seems to be telling me something."What is it?".I whispered back."I think Sensei has something to tell you," .Sakura smirked at me, looking at mein a funny sort of way.Upon hearing this, I slowly look up to glance at our Sensei and sure enough, heis looking at me sternly and seems to be irritated at me. I even noticed Anami giggling discreetly at me, looking amused at the whole situation."Li, maybe you want to share something with the rest of the class? Or would yourather go back to your home so you could finish dreaming in your bed?.He asked me as the rest of the class laughed at our Sensei's sarcastic remarks.I groaned inwardly. =Great! Now, she must be thinking what a fool I am! ="Ano...nothing, sir. I...I just got lost in my thoughts for a minute, there." .I

mumbled apologetically. Anyway, I figured out that I'd just tell him the truthsince I can't make up a good excuse to cover up my antics. Heck, I can't even seem to get my mind thinking right now! And besides, I'm sure that I'll look evenmore foolish if I invented a lie because obviously, no one will believe in it.Sensei nodded, now looking amused at me...or so I hoped. "I see...as what I wassaying, Ms. Anami is going to seat infront of you. And while we're at it, I willalso instruct you and Ms. Kinomoto to give Ms. Anami a tour of the campus lateron. Am I making myself clear?""Hai, sir!.I replied. I hoped I don't sound too happy when I said that!"How about you Ms. Kinomoto? Are you okay with what I've just told you?""Hai, sir. I would love to give Ms. Anami a tour of the campus." She answered back."Okay, then. Ms. Anami, could you go now to your seat please?" Sensei instructed

her.As soon as Anami reached her desk, I was surprised to see that she was actuallysmiling at me."Hi. Li Syaoran, right?" She said in a really friendly voice.= And now, she's even talking to me! ="Hmmm...yeah.." Astoundingly, I managed to smile back. You see, I don't really smile to strangers but well...this is sort of a different case."Hello! Welcome to our school!.A very familiar voice butted in. "I'm Kinomoto Sakura and over here is Daidouji Tomoyo.""Hello,.Tomoyo greeted across her desk at Anami."Allow me to introduce ourselves to you since Syaoran here may forget to introduce us since he is sort of spaced out today, as you can see.". Sakura continued to babble on while Anami laughed softly again, at my expense.

I rolled my eyes at Sakura as I saw her looking and laughing, obviously at me. Imean, how could she embarrass me like that in front of Anami? What a great bestfriend she could be."Yeah, I've noticed too. Anyway, thanks for such a warm welcome." Anami said. Then, she extended her hand to Sakura who reached out to shake it gently. "Nice meeting you. Call me Hana, if you may."I watched as Sakura smiled warmly at her. "Call me Sakura too, if you wish."=How I wish I could be as friendly as Sakura...now they are even calling each other on their first names! = I sighed as I slumped down deeper in my seat. = What's happening to me? Do I really like Anami? =


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I really don't know the answer to my question. It amazes me what this new girl can do to me. I hope it's just some kind of phase that I will eventually grow outof soon. (Yeah I wish so too! =P)**SAKURA**"Over here is the library and...""Syaoran,.I cut him off, eyeing him warily. "This is the music room. The libraryis on the second floor, remember? I think you got them mixed up."I noticed Syaoran's face flushed in embarrassment."Yeah...you're right..He chuckled consciously to himself. "Sorry about that."My! My...what's up with Syaoran today, anyway? He is definitely acting strange!Gosh, I never thought he could be such a major space cadet! I am used to him being on his usual cool, poised and attentive self and now...just look at him! Hanajust arrived in our school and now he's acting really odd or something. Am I imagining things or does Syaoran seems to like Hana? And maybe that is the reasonwhy he kept acting so out of it today. Could it really be that way? Hmmm...it does makes sense though but knowing Syaoran who doesn't like girls, that is a bithard to believe. But if that is not the reason, then what could it be? (Is she really being dense here or what? ^_^)"That's okay, Li. I'm sure I won't get lost in this school, anyway. The place isso easy to memorize." Hana smiled at him.= That must be like, the hundredth time she smiled at him!= I couldn't help thinking. Hey, she is really obvious you know!I sighed. Now, I'm even imagining that Hana likes Syaoran too! What the heck isgoing on?

I watch the two of them subtly at the corner of my eyes as we continue giving her a tour of the campus. You know, the whole time we spent together, I could swear, Syaoran's face is smiling the whole time. And yep, you guess it right. Even Hana too.= What is this, some kind of Mutual Admiration Society? = I couldn't help rolling my eyes."So that's about it, I guess." Syaoran finally said, concluding the tour.I know it's sarcastic but I was really glad when the tour ended. Don't get me wrong, I mean well, it's just that I can't stand all these mushy, admiration, smiling thingy going on between them. You know me, I am not a big fan of romantic stuffs. It actually gives me nightmares. Hehehe. Just exaggerating a bit there butreally, I'm serious with what I've said except the part about the nightmare, ofcourse.

I know I'm jumping into conclusions but you can't blame me if I think they likeeach other. They are always glancing at each other discreetly which is still obvious to me anyway, and both of them seem to think that I do not exist. Try leaving me out and you'll see, there's no difference with the way they act."Hey, there's Eriol and Tomoyo!.I said, noticing the two of them waiting for usoutside the building. I ran up eagerly to join them. Boy, am I glad to see them!I can't wait to leave the two lovebirds alone!"Hi, guys..Tomoyo greeted warmly."Hey Eriol, I know you aren't yet introduced formally with each other,.I said, suddenly remembering something. "Hana, this is Eriol Hiiragizawa. Eriol, this isAnami Hana.""Nice to meet you. You can call me Eriol,""Nice to meet you too." Anami smiled sweetly at him which made Syaoran scowl.

"Where are you from again, Hana?" Tomoyo asked curiously as we walk away from the campus."I'm from Canada. But I was really born and raised here in Tokyo. My parents areboth Japanese.""Yeah. Obviously you are Japanese. But why did you migrate to Canada if you don't mind my asking?." I asked kindly. I was always wondering how it felt to move to another country. To be honest, I couldn't really imagine that I'll be living someplace else. I love our place very, very much most especially because all my friends are here."Well, my father is an engineer who gets to be assigned to different countries.


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That's the reason we get to stay in different places. In fact, we already livedbefore in Australia, Singapore, America and even in Europe." .Hana explained."Wow," .I gushed. Hana already traveled to lots of places before! No wonder shelooks so well disciplined, elegant and poised just like a real lady already despite only being the same age as I am!"Europe? I was from there, you know." Eriol added informatively. (Or is it England, to be precise?)I am becoming aware of the fact that Syaoran is falling into one of his 'silentmode' again. I slow down my pace a bit to let Eriol, Tomoyo, and Hana go ahead of us as I walked beside Syaoran."Hey, what's eating you today?""What do you mean?" Syaoran asked back defensively. Which I personally think isway too defensive."I'm not used at you acting like this,""What exactly am I acting about?.He turned to look at me."Well, for once you are always lost in your own thoughts today. And," .I smirked. "You are acting like a baka today."He shrugged his shoulders at me, trying to act casually but still failing to doso. "Nothing's up really. I'm just thinking about some things.""Such as who?".I prompted."Huh?""I know you know what I mean." I laughed. "Wouldn't there be a chance that the one you're thinking or that someone you're thinking goes by the name Hana?"There. I finally said it. His reaction at what I've said is definitely more than

what I've expected of. Syaoran's face looks so red, though. I never saw him like that.He coughed deliberately and managed to utter an incoherent sentence. "What on earth are you talking about, Sakura?"I stole a glance at the other three who are still busy talking with each other and seems not to notice us. Seeing the situation, I decided to ask my question right away before I forget about it."Okay, Syaoran. Spill it out already!.I crossed my arms indignantly. "Do you like Hana or what?"A BIG FAVOR**SYAORAN**"Hey, answer me," Sakura demanded. "You like Hana, don't you?"My eyes blinked a couple of times first before I could grasp the whole sense of

Sakura's question."What made you say that I like her?"I exclaimed as softly as I could. I quicklytake a glance at Anami just to make sure that she is still busy talking to Erioland Tomoyo. I really never wanted her to hear our conversation. Or Eriol and Tomoyo, for that matter. I don't know, this whole thing still seems to be embarrassing to me. And besides, if they overhear what Sakura and I are discussing about, I'm pretty sure they wouldn't let me hear the end of it."You're so obvious, you know?" She chuckled heartily. "Besides, you're my best friend. I can see and feel it whenever something weird is up with you."I raised a questioning eyebrow at her. "Oh, really?""Really." Sakura mimicked. "There's no sense denying it, Syaoran. It's written all over your face." She said smugly.= Am I that obvious? = My face heat up at the thought. What if the others notice

it, too? That would be like, embarrassing! Especially when people know me as the guy who neglects girls who swarm around him. Sheeeeesh."I'm not denying anything, okay?""So why don't you answer my question? It's actually very simple. You just have to answer it with a yes or no."I sighed in annoyance. Sometimes, Sakura can be so persistent! She really knowshow to tick me off so she could get whatever she wants from me. And I, being herfriend, will give in just to. well, basically stop her from constantly 'pestering' me. This is usually the case, as you can see.However, how could I answer her question if I didn't know the answer myself? In


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fact, I'm very much confused right now and surprised at the new emotions that istaking place inside of me. I can't even tell what I really feel about Anami right now!"I don't know."I mumbled."What kind of answer is that?"Sakura wondered out loud. "Hmp. Fine then, if youdon't want to tell me about it then don't. I don't want to twist your arm aboutit.""Saku-ra!"I hissed. I don't like it when she goes on doing reverse psychology atme again. Really, she can be so childish at times!"I'm not hiding anything from you. The truth is, I don't know what I'm feeling about her just right now."I look at her eyes deeply. "I can't understand it myself."Sakura nodded at me understandingly. "It's okay. I understand. And I'm really sorry about bugging you about it.""Don't worry about it,""It's just that, you know, I'm kind of excited and amused at the same time at the thought of you liking somebody."She smiled at me. "I mean, Syaoran, you're finally growing up!"I couldn't help but laugh at what she just said. Does growing up really includeall these weird stuffs happening right now to me? If this is just the start of it, I don't wanna think about what will happen next."Seriously speaking, if ever there'll come a time you need my help about these stuffs, just talk to me."Sakura said assuringly. "Although I'm not really an expert on this kind of field, though. But anyway, I'll try my best."

I smiled fondly at her. Yeah, I know I said a while ago how a pest she could be,but haven't I told you before that Sakura could really be such a nice and sweetfriend, too?"Thanks."I looked worriedly at her. ", Are you okay?"Curiosity was written all over Sakura's face. "Why'd you ask?""Nothing. Maybe you're just sick with some rare kind of flu that's why you keptsaying all these things."I teased."Am not! Really, you keep me getting amazed at the way you can change a seriousconversation into one of your teasing ones." Sakura stuck her tongue out at me."I change what I've said before. No, you're NOT growing up. You're still the same jerk!""Who are you calling a jerk?"I taunted. I was about to continue more with my usual teasers when Eriol finally noticed the two of us.

"Hey, you two! What are you talking about back there?" Eriol looked at us quizzically. "Maybe you can share it with us,""Nothing important,"Sakura replied."Hey, do you mind guys if we tour Hana in the park?"Tomoyo suggested."Yeah, I would love to see that place. Both of them told me that you guys usually pass by there from school whenever you still don't want to go home."Anami said."Sure, no problem."I agreed. Anyway, we don't have that much homework to do tonight. It would really be not a problem if we show Anami the place first."That's a great idea, Tomoyo!"Sakura tugged me lightly in my arm as we walked tojoin the rest of them. "Come on, Syaoran! Don't be such a slowpoke!"she added.**TOMOYO**"Guys are really following her, ne?"I asked Sakura as I watched Hana talking, no

t too far away from us, to some of our classmates.It was our recess and Sakura and I are sitting at one of the benches just outside near our school building. Three days had already passed since Hana, the new student, transferred to our school. The fact that Hana is really beautiful, with her shoulder length light brown hair, fair complexion, blue eyes and innocent looking face, did not escape me. The first time I saw her when she first entered our classroom, I knew right away that Hana is going to be popular with boys. And how right am I, as you could see! Literally speaking, guys are smitten by her beauty and needless to say, they follow her everywhere."You could say that."Sakura agreed with me while munching her sandwich. "Hana is


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already one of the popular faces in the campus.""Do you think she's really pretty?""I guess so. Maybe that's the reason she got so many admirers."She shrugged. "Anyway, what I like about her is the fact that she's actually really nice and humble. Given the fact that their family is filthy rich and she's pretty.""Yeah. She looks really nice but she's filthy rich?"I chuckled. "Where'd you getthat?""Isn't it obvious? The way she act, the way she speaks and even the way she carries our school uniform! It all spells R-I-C-H!"Sakura narrowed her eyes at me. "Just like you.""I am not filthy rich!"I countered."Awww, Tomoyo! You can be so humble!"She laughed.I smiled breezily at her. Yeah, I must admit, our family is well endowed and everything but still I'm never going to be as popular as Hana. I'm never going to have guys following all around me. In fact, I haven't even known of a single guywho likes me in the first place! Anyway, it doesn't matter to me; I know those stuffs will come eventually and just right now, what's important to me is that I'm with my friends and I'm enjoying their company."You know I've been noticing something about Syaoran lately,"I said. "Does he have a crush on Hana?""Well, Syaoran said he's still not sure about his feelings but heck, it was already obvious!" Sakura grinned. "Even you can notice it!""He still doesn't know, huh?""Yeah. But I'm sure, he just doesn't want to admit it yet." She rolled her eyes.

"Syaoran can be really weird sometimes!"I glanced around us as I suddenly noticed something. "Hey, where are Eriol and Syaoran?""Beats me." Sakura shrugged."Oh well, I guess they'll just come around later." I said."Yeah. And later would be right now." Sakura answered back, pointing a finger towards the other direction. "Look, I saw Eriol coming now."I turned to look at the direction she was pointing at. Indeed, Eriol is alreadygoing towards us. But, wait! He seems to be holding something! I squinted my eyes to get a better view.= A teddy bear? = I wondered silently.**SAKURA**"Eriol, what is that thing you're carrying?" I asked as soon as he reached our b

ench.Eriol smiled at me. "This is a teddy bear as you can see.""Why do you have that?""I was going to give it to you." Eriol replied."WHAT?" My eyes widened in surprise. I could see Tomoyo looking as surprised asI am. I know, she's thinking the same thing as I am.= Why would Eriol give me a teddy bear? =I must've gave Eriol a look that is really shocked and horrified that the next thing I know, he was suddenly laughing hard at me."Sakura, Sakura," He said, still laughing. "I know what you're thinking! But nope, this one's not from me."He handed me the brown teddy bear as I gingerly accepted it. I turned the bear around as I examined it. I must admit that it was pretty cute, with its brown fur

s and hands that are holding an oversize heart which covers its whole belly."Who gave this to you?" I asked."I found it on top of your desk." Eriol explained. "I just came back to get my notes which I left and then I saw it sitting there. I figured he must've placed it in your desk right after we went out for recess.""Sakura, I think there's a small piece of paper inserted in his left paw," Tomoyo noticed as she gave the bear I thorough look.Tomoyo was right. I found a small piece of paper and I hurriedly unfolded it tosee what is written in it. Well, I think I already have a hint of what is written in it.


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Sakura,I hoped you liked the card I gave you.I hoped you liked this bear too.Advanced Happy Valentine.******"So?"Tomoyo looked at me with eyebrows raised questioningly."I guess it's from the same guy who gave me that stupid card."I frowned.I refused to let this one ruin my day. I refused to let this thing get past me.I refused the heck! I might as well face the fact that this certain someone willnot stop at this kind of acts. Anyway, since I don't know who this mysterious person is, I can't do anything about it."He still hasn't revealed himself, ne?" Eriol asked."Yup. And I hope it stays that way.""Well, you will have to face him sooner or later." Tomoyo added."Oh really? Gosh, I can't wait." I said dully as both Eriol and Tomoyo laughed at what I've said. I was about to place the bear inside my bag when Syaoran finally turned up beside me and decided to join us."Hey, where have you been?" I asked curiously."Just around. I was just thinking about.""Syaoran stopped as I saw him glancingat the bear I was holding.= Ooops.="What's that?" He grinned widely. I sighed and take a deep breath. I already know where this is all coming.I plastered on, what I hope, is a threatening look. "Don't you see, it's a bear?

""I know. So who gave it to you, your boyfriend?" Syaoran teased. As expected, hegave a very 'smart' comment about it. See, I know he's going to tease me aboutit!"How many times will I have to tell you that he's never going to be my boyfriend!"I muttered. I know, Eriol and Tomoyo must be like, sweatdropping again as theywatched us bickering. Anyway, I'm not really in a mood for this so I'm not going to ride on with Syaoran's teasing today."Whatever." Syaoran said, shrugging his shoulders. He turned to look at Tomoyo and Eriol. "Hey, guys? Do you mind if I talked to Sakura alone?" He asked politely.Eriol, as always, looked at Syaoran in wonder but decided not to say anything more. Tomoyo on the other hand said something, although I could tell from her face

that she's wearing the same curious look that Eriol gave Syaoran."Sure." Tomoyo replied. "Eriol and I could join Hana over there.""Thanks." Syaoran said gratefully.As soon as Tomoyo and Eriol are out of earshot, I finally blurted out what I'vebeen meaning to ask Syaoran."What do you want to talk to me about?I noticed Syaoran staring down at his shoes. He looks as if he's having a hard time trying to tell me about something."Well, I've been thinking about some things and then I suddenly remembered thatwe only have less than two weeks left before the Valentine's partyE"He started offas I listened to him.= What's he getting up to anyway? ="I also noticed that Anami has lots of guys trailing behind her and that- "

"So that's what you wanted to tell me?"I cut him off. "That you're finally admitting that you like Hana?"Syaoran glanced at me sheepishly. " and no.""I don't understand, Syaoran.""Remember, you said before that you're going to help me whenever I'll be needingyour help?"I nodded. "Of course I remember! So what do you want me to do? Ask Hana out foryou to the dance? You would ask her out, right?"I smirked at him. "Although I suggest that it would be better if you're the one who ask her personally about it."


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"Well, yes, I'll be asking her to be my date for the dance and."""Really? You're actually going to that party?"I am really surprised! This is certainly news to me! I know how Syaoran hates formal events as much as I do and now, he's considering going to the Valentine's party? Gosh, he must've really likeHana that much!"Yes," Syaoran said exasperatedly. "Please let me finish first, Sakura."He pleaded."Sorry 'bout that. I just got a little carried away,"I grinned."As what I was telling, I wanted to ask you a favor about something. A really big favor. I hope you could help me."A big favor? What could that be that Syaoran made it sound like it's so seriousor something."Yeah, I would help you. It's the least I could do for all those times you savedme when we were capturing those cards." I said. "Anyway, what is it?"" is really going to sound weird or something but I've think about it a lot andI guess, this is the only way you could help me with the upcoming dance."I looked at him intently, eager to know what he wants from me."Well, you go out on a date with me?" Syaoran asked me, his face flushing as heuttered the words.EXPLANATIONS**SAKURA**"So...what do you think about it?" Syaoran asked hopefully.As the whole realization of it finally hit me, needless to say, I was surprised.No, make that...I was shocked. Shock would be a more appropriate word for it. R

eally, I never heard of such a ridiculous idea before! But suddenly, it dawned on my mind that maybe Syaoran is only joking about it.= Yeah, that must be it! He's just kidding! = Now, that makes more sense.I let out a laugh. "That...was...good." I gasped in between my laughter. "It's really funny! You can be such a good actor, Syaoran! You almost got me there fora minute!""No, I'm serious about it.""Oh, come on! The whole idea of us going out? That is really funny, you know!" Iexclaimed, still giggling."I mean what I've said before." Syaoran replied with conviction.Now, what he said definitely made me shut up right away. I glanced at Syaoran tosee him frowning at me. He does look like he means business and that he is NOTjoking about anything.

"Hoeeeeee?" I said in surprise. "You and me? Dating? Am I hearing things right?""You don't have to sound so excited by it." Syaoran remarked sarcastically. "YesSakura, you heard me right. You're not going deaf."I looked at him like he lost his mind or something. I almost wished right this instance that Hana never came here in Tomoeda because with the way that Syaoran is acting right now, he is definitely giving me the creeps. And this time, I'm not kidding about it."But...how is going out with me going to help you with Hana?""Good question." He smirked. "It's because I need some practice.""Practice?"I watched Syaoran slowly paced back and forth while assessing his explanations to me. Huh! He should explain everything to me clearly or else, even if I did promise before that I'd help him, I won't do it.

"Okay. This is kind of hard to explain but see, I want to ask Anami out for a date but I'm really afraid I'll mess things up. I never had a good idea how to actor deal with girls around more so in a date. You know me," He shrugged. " I never paid any attention to girls before.""So in other words, I'll be acting out as a substitute for Hana in our 'dates'.Is that what you're implying?" I asked."Errrr...I wouldn't exactly call it like that. Let me put it this way. You wouldact as my 'date' and critic at the same time." He explained. "You would commentabout our date whether you liked it or not. So feel free to say whatever you want. You could say you love it or hate it, I don't care. I just need your views a


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bout it. Hmmm...did you get it?"I nodded. "I guess so." But somehow, the whole idea of it still doesn't make sense to me."But Syaoran, you're missing one important point here." I frowned. "Hana and I are two completely different people.""I know that. I'm not really expecting you to act like her or anything." Syaoransighed. "As I've said before, you're going to be my critic and that's it.""Why of all people did you ask me to be your critic? I have no single clue aboutdating." I couldn't help but smile at the idea. Don't you think it's really weird that I will criticize about something that I have no idea about? It's kind oflike going into a battle without you knowing whom you're going to fight off with."Because you said you'll help me. I know, I could ask for Tomoyo's help but thatwould be embarrassing.""I don't see you getting embarrassed right now."Syaoran chuckled. "That's because it's you. You're different. You're my bestfriend.""Yeah, right." I rolled my eyes. "What made you say that I'll help you with yourabsurd idea?""Because you can't bear to see me so helpless," He said confidently."Helpless?" I snorted. "I never thought you knew such word.""So everything's alright then?""I never said yes!"Syaoran stared at me as hard as he could. Can staring too much can actually kill

a person? Sheeeshhh...that must be the look that Syaoran is giving me right now."Okay! I'll help you." I said in mocked defeat. "Although I can't assure you that when it's time for you to ask Hana out, you could act the same way as you arewith me. Besides, we're always together, I don't see any difference when we start to 'go out'.""How many times do I have to explain to you that you'll be my-""Critic." I finished off. "I know already, okay? But don't expect me to act allgirly-girly for you! I won't wear a dress just for you!""Okay, I won't force you." Syaoran grinned at me. "But maybe could you act a bitsweet and loving towards me? You know, just to make things a bit believable?"I rolled my eyes again for the nth time. "Oh Syaoran, I need you, I want you, Iadore you. You really swept me off my feet!" I said in disgust. "Is that loving

enough for you?"He laughed so hard at that. "You could be better, you know.""Really? Wellll...sorry! That's the best I can only do! Anyway, I suggest we seek the help of Tomoyo about these stuffs. She knows more about dating than we both do. Tomoyo's really into romance.""So I've noticed.""Who knows, maybe she could suggest further stuffs to do for your date." I continued."Do we have to?" Syaoran asked, grimacing at me. "Tomoyo can be weird sometimes,you know. I could picture her face right now when we tell her about it.""As if you're not weird." I laughed. "So, what do you think?""Well, I guess I have no other choice.""Okay. Let's talk to her after class." I stuck my tongue out at him. "You know,

you owe me big time for this, Syaoran!" I teased."Fine. But I'm pretty sure you'll get your 'money's worth' when you enjoyed our'date'." He teased back, now smiling at me."Huh! Don't get your hopes too high Li Syaoran!" I retorted with confidence, leaning closer to Syaoran and tiptoeing a bit so that we're almost standing face toface. "Don't blame me if you ended up liking me.""That is, when you notice how cute I am first." He countered back."In your dreams!" I shouted and then we both burst out laughing at our outrageous ideas.**TOMOYO**


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"Reallly?" I shrieked.Sakura, Syaoran and I are walking home together later that afternoon. I was surprised when Syaoran came up to me earlier and said that he needs to talk to me. Of course, I was definitely curious about what he wants to discuss with me about.In fact, I was intrigued already since recess ever since that time Syaoran talkto Sakura privately in the campus. I was actually glancing at them the whole time they were talking. Yeah, I saw it all. From the time Syaoran seems to look nervous and then Sakura got surprised up to when they both laughed like crazy. I swear, I can't bear any secrecy anymore seeing them like that. As what you couldsee, I am one big, nosy girl. But hey, I admit it!"Sssssshhhhhhhhh!" Syaoran immediately hushed.I glanced around us. "Nobody's around us, Syaoran. Besides, we're already far from school.""I'm just making sure, okay?" He hissed. "Please, Tomoyo, keep your voice down.""So what if somebody heard us?" I asked. I really don't see the point what's thebig deal."We don't want anybody to know about it. As much as possible we don't want any intrigues." Sakura said. "You know how people could give meaning into things right away."I sighed disappointedly. "I see. So it means to say that I can't tell the girlsand Eriol about this?""Yeah. Especially Eriol." Syaoran answered."I'm sorry but I can't help it you know, if I squealed like that. What you guysjust told me is really so kawaii!"

Who wouldn't be happy about hearing your two friends dating? Especially if thesetwo particular friends are the ones you like to end up with each other! Although the date may just be a sort of 'make-believe' one, I don't care. As long as they actually started dating, that's all that matters. Obviously, as what you cantell, I'm a big fan of the two. You know, I almost thought before that there's no hope for the two of them but well...looks like things are a 'changin now! Ohohohohohohoho! Now, I could finally use my most prized possession...my video camera! Ohohohohohoho! (Wow...Tomoyo must have already flipped out... O.o)"So what are you going to wear for your date, Sakura?"Sakura's face showed pure horror. Just look at that! And I haven't even said theword 'skirt' yet!"The usual of course! Why, do you think I'll be wearing a skirt?""Yeah. A skirt can get you in the mood for your role as Syaoran's date." I shrug

ged."No way! We had a deal about it already." Sakura answered haughtily."I suggest that you start your date right away. Because there's no more time left for Syaoran to ask Hana to the dance." I reminded. "I think tomorrow would begreat since it's a weekend.""Tomorrow already?" Sakura asked in surprise."You're right, Tomoyo." Syaoran agreed. "But I don't have any ideas yet."My forehead wrinkled in thought. "Let's see...I think two or three dates would be fine already. You have less than two weeks to prepare including asking her out. Of course, for a date, you should choose the most convenient and enjoyable place wherein there's not that much pressure to talk to each other."I winked at Syaoran. "First dates can be so nerve-wracking. For your second date, focus on stuffs where you'll take her out to eat. We're too young obviously so

formal restaurants are out of the list. Therefore, you got to know your date'sfave food and take her to that place where it is served. It would be even betterif that is the place's specialty."I paused to take a short breath before continuing."And lastly, I think it doesn't help to try practicing your dancing skills. That's one of the points here right? Syaoran's going to ask Hana for the Valentine'sparty and we all know that there'll going to be lots of dancing. Anyway, you don't have to worry about the place for your dance lessons. Both of you could go to our house to practice.""Wow...where'd you learned all that?" Syaoran asked in amazement.


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"Watching romance movies and novels." I said as a matter-of-fact."Dance? Do we have to do that?" Sakura asked."Well, that could help you too Sakura. Especially for the upcoming dance." I replied."But I'm not going!""Who knows, you could change your mind? Besides, how about your mystery admirer?Don't you want to go with him? " I teased lightly. "Come on, all of us are going! We could all enjoy ourselves there!""I'm still not going." Sakura stomped. "Syaoran, if you're not only my best friend, I wouldn't do these things for you."Syaoran smiled gratefully at her. "I know. That's why thank you very much Sakura. You are definitely the best. I promised someday I'm going to repay you for allthese trouble you went to just for me."I clapped my hands in delight. "So tomorrow it is then?""Yeah." Syaoran echoed out while Sakura nodded tentatively."Okay! Just tell me Syaoran and I'll see you guys tomorrow!"Syaoran sweatdropped. "Don't tell me you'll accompany us in our 'date', Tomoyo?""Of course! I wouldn't miss it for the world!" I grinned at them as they stare at me. "And what's neat is that I'll even bring my video camera with me!""Hoeeeeeeee..." Sakura whispered faintly.FIRST DATE**SAKURA**It was a perfect Saturday afternoon; with the sun brightly shining and the sky looking so blue with beautiful clouds drifting slowly in it. I took a sigh and ab

sorbed in all the beauty around me and the freshness of the air. Today is indeedsuch a beautiful day and here I am, with my two best friends going out to havesome fun. It would've been even better if this is just a simple lets-go-out-together-to-get-some-bonding type of date, but no...it isn't. I'm here with Syaoranand Tomoyo today at the recently opened Town Square Carnival because I made a promise that I will help Syaoran to get his date with his dream girl. And as you can see, I get to be the unwilling 'date' for him to practice.I look around to see lots of people wandering around the carnival and I immediately felt the excitement rush up within me. I haven't told you, but I just love carnivals!"So this is where you've thought of taking me for our first 'date', huh?"Syaoran gave me a lopsided smile. "Yeah, do you like it?"Of course I like it! But I wouldn't tell him that and make it easy for him. Reme

mber, I'm the critic and I intend to find every fault that I can see in him. Yeah, you might say I'm being too hard on the guy but I have a reason for that. Yousee, this is for the best since if he saw me not enjoying, or pretending to benot enjoying, he would even persevere more in making me do so. I mean, Hana could even do the same thing right? I'm talking about her not enjoying the date, too."I don't know. We'll see about that." I answered simply, eyeing him warily. I could see that Syaoran is wearing a casual navy blue short- sleeved shirt and loose jeans. Don't ask me if he looks kawaii in it, I mean Syaoran always looks thesame for me, though I must admit that he looks kind of different today. Hmmmm...maybe it's on the way he carry himself."You know, you look pretty nice, Sakura." Syaoran commented, eyeing me.I snorted at him. So the game of flattery has already begun, huh?

"With my t-shirt and baggy jeans, of course I'd look great!" I remarked sarcastically causing him to smile. "Today is a very special day that's why I even woremy favorite attire just for you.""Hmm-mmm." Syaoran said simply, trying his best to act like a gentleman and gulping down his sarcastic remarks. He looks really funny, though. I guess, Syaoranis taking this date thingy seriously. I mean, he didn't even tease me back!Syaoran managed to choke back a laugh. "Arigatou, I guess."Tomoyo look at me disappointedly. "And I thought you'll be wearing a skirt,""I never said I will even if you did call me several times last night urging meto do so."


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"You did?" Syaoran asked Tomoyo astoundedly."Yeah, I did. I was hoping she'll wear the skirt my bodyguards delivered to herlast night.""You actually did that?" Syaoran asked more amazed this time."Eh he he." I laughed softly. I know, you don't have to tell me guys! Actually,Tomoyo can really be this persistent especially when she wants her to be! And frankly, I don't know why she's so excited about this whole thing even more than the two of us.Tomoyo grinned widely at us. "But no need to worry, Sakura! You still look pretty kawaii!" She squealed as I sweatdropped.Syaoran looks at me as if he would be anywhere than with Tomoyo right now. PoorSyaoran. I guess, he's still not used at her being so hyper and everything. I just shrugged back at him helplessly when his eyes met up with mine.I noticed him heaving a sigh. "So, what do you want now Sakura? Do we get to eatfirst before taking a ride or do you intend to get to the rides first?""Rides first, then food." I replied, perking up despite of my plan to act uninterested.At that, Syaoran nodded and took me hold lightly in my wrist as he led me further inside the carnival. Tomoyo was just right infront of us filming our every move (much to their dismay...hehehe... =P) as we wandered down a row of booths; glass cases with tumbling buttered popcorn, grills with sizzling sausage, and all those sticky tornadoes of pink cotton candy. There were penny pitches and basketball tosses and darts and hoops. There were even tables full of second hand junkthat no sane person would buy and beyond it all were spokes of light, the grind

machinery, and piercing screams."Okay. Where do you want to go first?" Syaoran asked me."The roller coaster!" I couldn't help exclaiming. I saw at the corner of my eyeshow he smiled at that. Oh well, I guess my plan is not working so perfectly right now. Might as well enjoy the day so that this one would not go into waste. "Do you like them?""I guess so. I even asked my mother to put one in the backyard." He joked."This is a small one, but they send you around three times.""Maybe this one would have fit," he said, as we walked towards the roller coaster.I had to jockey a bit to select the perfect car to ride in. It was only me and Syaoran who get to ride in it since Tomoyo graciously declined my offer and saidthat she's just contented to film us. Before setting down to ride in it, I tied

my hair in a half pony."What did you do that for?" Syaoran asked curiously."My hair would whip off my face if I didn't tie it." I simply answered as he looks at me amusingly.As we waited for the ride to start, Syaoran told me a Hershey Park roller coaster horror story, which I'm pretty sure he made up. I told a Busch Gardens one (now, where do I get those names? ^_^;;), which I definitely made up. We kept one-upping each other while we waited for others to board. I guess, I get a good laugh out of that.Then all our heads jerked back and we were off. Oh, there's nothing like a roller coaster, the slow climb up, the rush down, then up again, then hurtling down,swish left, swish right."No hands," Syaoran whooped beside me.

I raised my hands high in the air and kept them there, feeling as If I could take off."No feet!" He hollered."What?" I turned sideward, laughing. My hair whipped over my head, the ribbon slipping out. Syaoran snagged it in midair.My loose hair felt as if it had a hurricane in it E" I couldn't get a hold of it.I reached over for my ribbon while Syaoran leaned closer but our hands couldn'tquite touch. I don't know why but I'm pretty sure he doesn't want to hand backmy ribbon. I saw him laughing at my wild hair, and then smiling at me, his eyesholding my eyes, brilliant with the wind. We just kept looking at each other, tr


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acks rushing beneath us.Then the cars screeched to a halt. "Ride over," I muttered and stepped unsteadily onto the platform. Syaoran gave me a hand and I saw that my ribbon was loopedtightly around his other hand."Need a comb?" Tomoyo asked helpfully as she saw my state."Got one, thanks."My small-toothed comb did nothing for the tangled mess. I comb my hair back in place as best as I could, patting it down self-consciously."We need something calm." Syaoran suggested this time."The Ferris wheel would be perfect! I could get to ride on the carriage ahead ofyours while I get to film you!" Tomoyo squealed as both of us looked at her slyly.At the start of the ride up in the Ferris wheel, Syaoran and I just kept in comfortable silence with each other, as I gazed outside the seat, looking at the whole carnival."So what do you think now, Sakura? Are you enjoying our 'date' already?"I glanced at Syaoran to see him smiling hopefully at me. I guess, he look reallykind of determined to make this one enjoyable for me so that I could give him his much wanted approval.I smiled back at him. "Yeah. I'm definitely enjoying it. I'm sure Hana would, too.""I guess," he muttered back. "Arigatou gozaimas for helping me with all of these."I smirked at him. "Thank me later when you finally get Hana to be your partner t

o the dance."When we got off the Ferris wheel, I suddenly had the urge to try the basketballthrow."The hoops are small." Syaoran warned.I spent three dollars (convert that to Japanese yen, =P) trying but I guess I'mpretty out of it today, so Syaoran decided to take charge."Can I give it a whirl?" He asked me as I nodded in approval.Syaoran managed to score points and won on the second dollar. He picked out theanimal, a round-faced panda, her big paws wrapped lovingly around a clinging baby."Here it is." He said, handling the bear to me.After that, Syaoran told me that he wanted to do the haunted house. The Firemen's House of Fear had to be one of the tackiest places around, plastic bodies blee

ding plastic blood, baying hounds whose glowing eyes were red Christmas bulbs, and a very bad soundtrack. I should've known cause my brother already told me about it. It would've been fun as you get to walk through the place, if only I'm not scared. Yeah, I admit it. I'm a scaredy-cat when it comes to ghosts stuffs butI wouldn't dare admit that to Syaoran right now even though he's my very bestfriend in the whole world."S-Sure. We could go there." I answered weakly."Okay, guys. I'll just wait for you here outside!" Tomoyo said.I also knew that sometimes, they actually used live spooks, especially in the dark rooms. The blackened rooms E" where there is nothing but you kept thinking there must be E" were probably only the scary part. A few people had trouble findingtheir way out of them.When we passed the baying hounds, the graveyard, and the room of ghosts that flo

ated in the wind of small, rattling fans, we were both still in line, with Syaoran leading the way infront of me. Then suddenly, we went through a door and plunged into darkness. We stumbled around, reaching for each other. I grasped a soft, strong hand E" Syaoran's I hopedE"for sometimes, people had come out bonded withthe wrong person.Then someone who had been hiding in the dark came wailing and hurtling through our line, scattering

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