A Fanfiction 3-shots

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Chapter one: Strange Attraction

Disclaimer: I made this story for the fanfiction corner of Card Captor Sakura in fanfiction site. I don't own the characters I just borrowed them.

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It was just another typical school day, same indescribable atmosphere that emits nothing but disappointment and apathy, same scruffy setting that brings the sense of oppression and depression , same insensible crowd around that never stop moving from their daily routines and observe the scenery within and around them.

Wandering the streets to the bus station, I hopelessly attempt to recall the list of things I have to accomplish for the day. Too preoccupied, a sudden ache from the side emerged. I accidentally bumped into a tall guy. So engrossed with my thoughts I never looked up and just mumbled “I’m sorry,” and proceed at the end of the bus line to the central district.

After a few minutes, it was finally my turn to get on the bus. I grabbed an aisle seat next to an elderly woman at her sixties. The bus ride was one of those regular ones, peaceful and dreary. The busy streets to the central district hang us from our morning schedules. Everyone in the bus was wearing a dark aura, irritated and pissed from the morning traffic jam. That was until I heard laughter from the seat behind us on the other side of the bus.

Two boys and a girl were enjoying each other’s company. Never in my life have I thought that I would be staring at a stranger. I studied carefully his features, adoring everything about him. His lean yet muscular body, the strong jaw lines and his tan complexion made my eyes sparkle in adoration. His messy chocolate hair that added to his delectable charm, his fine red lips, perfect nose and those amber eyes that could melt anybody he gaze upon. I just can’t get enough of him.

‘You need to stop. Sakura will you wake up,’ I scolded myself. I need to stop; I need to control myself before I start drooling. I tore away my gaze from him and violently shook my head trying desperately to get rid of his image that is now imprinted deeply in my sub-consciousness.

Questions popped from my head… ‘Why am I acting so strangely, it’s not even the first time I’ve seen a hot guy? What is this I’m feeling that I just can’t explain? Why is he so perfect? I wonder how old he is. Does he have a girlfriend or a wife? Wait!!! What??’ I smacked my forehead so hard that I yelp in pain. My elderly seatmate looked at me confusedly like I’m an insane person. Well, maybe I am now.

More laughter erupted from their direction, containing myself I tried to think of some kind of distraction from them. But they’re laughter and conversation could not help me from getting interested and draw me to unintentionally eavesdropping. I leaned at my seat to pick up what they’re discussion is about.

“Hey, so you mean to say Tomoyo was the one to propose? What kind of a man are you then, Eriol? Letting her take charge and be the man in your relationship, tsk tsk tsk.”

Dropping all of my self-constructed restraints, my eyes wandered again at their direction, taking in all of him. His voice was husky and deep, continuously teasing his friends; his eyes glimmering of mirth and his lips forming a charming smile as he talked with his friends.

‘Arrgghhh’ I groaned inwardly, tearing away from them. ‘How can I be so obsessed with a stranger? I can’t seem to control myself, I hate this, don’t even know his name.’ I heavily sigh as I slumped lazily at my seat pondering at my reactions from him. Too engrossed with my debate within, I didn’t notice the bus stopped until an endearing scent passed. I looked up and so him getting off the bus.

My jaw instantly dropped as I take in the scent he just left behind. I’m so shocked that I didn’t even notice where he got off and almost missed my stop. ‘Burberry is a major turn on.’

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Tap. Tap. Tap.

Tapping my shoe rapidly at the cement, irritated from waiting; I grimly thought of ways to torture my dear cousin for making me edgy this early in the morning. ‘Where’s that stupid girl?’ I sourly glare at my watch trying dreadfully to keep time stand still. My head hang low from disappointment.

A shadow then caught my eye as I heard a huffing girl, “Sakura I’m terribly sorry, I…” cutting her off from her unwanted explanation, I grabbed her wrist and dragged her to the practically occupied bus.

We scanned the whole bus thanking God that there are two seats left in the front. Dragging my annoying cousin, we proceeded to the unoccupied seats. Still irritated from her tardiness, I ignore her antics and stare at the scene outside, until she nudged me hard that I almost slip off my seat.

As I regained my composure, I gave her the deadliest glare I could muster. She then winced at my reaction and immediately stops blabbering and minds her own business. After a few minutes of silence, I suddenly felt a heavy burden on my left shoulder. Anticipating the cause of it, I glance over and saw my cousin’s head, snoring in her sleep. Shaking my head in utter disbelief, I sighed, ‘Chiharu.’

Free from all constraints I have put around me from my cousins’ idiotic behavior, I relaxed at my seat and begin to notice the stillness of the atmosphere in the bus and the types of people I’m sharing it with. I flick through the cool, calm and collected passengers of the bus. Some are taking a nap like my cousin who is still enjoying my shoulder as her comfy pillow. Others are reading newspapers, books, magazines, comics and other reading materials. A few are appreciating the scenery outside while some are smiling and observing things similar to what I was doing.

‘Wait! What?’ I bring back my gaze towards a guy I thought was doing the same thing and I caught him smiling at me. ‘Smile? Did he just smile at me? Hold on, isn’t he the guy from the bus ride yesterday? Oh my…’ I looked at my left and to the right to see if he smiled at me or to another person nearby. Everyone in the bus is still minding their own business except me! ‘Me! Me? Why me? Oh God! Did he notice me eavesdropping yesterday? Shit!’

I felt warmth creeping up to my cheeks, hand starting to sweat furiously, my insides welling up with unknown excitement and my heart flutters as if there’s no more tomorrow. I bow my head in embarrassment not daring to look up at his direction again. But as I felt eyes boring through my soul, I tried to muster all my courage and attempted to look up and discover my peculiar observer.

Shaky from the tension it brought, I slowly tilted my head upwards to peek through my hair that fall upon my face when I bowed down. My eyes widened as I recognized those amber eyes staring, his melting gaze at me and giving me the most mesmerizing smile I ever received in my entire life. ‘Exaggerating? I most certainly not, I couldn’t even fathom what I’m feeling right now.’

My pounding heart beats so fast I could have sworn it would have fallen to the ground if I haven’t placed my hand on it to calm it down. I begun to shiver slightly as I felt an indescribable shockwave within me and had goose bumps all over me. My vision begun to blur as I could only focus on his face and everything around him is just a hazy picture.

The bus suddenly made a stop, he then stood up, wave his hand and got off the bus. I slumped at my seat from relief and exhaustion for the control of sanity in me. ‘How could just a smile got me so affected? So anxious yet excited at the same time? I don’t even know him?’

So caught up with my thoughts, I didn’t notice my cousin arouse from her little nap. Chiharu gently nudge me this time, signaling me that we have arrived at our stop. This is the second time I almost missed my stop, the second time I almost lost my sanity, the second time I encountered him, the same charming stranger for two consecutive days.

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I welcome the day with a smile that could crack up any depressed person. Yup, my smile these days have been a, what Chiharu called ‘manic smile.’ I just can’t contain myself lately, I think I’m going to loose my mind sooner or later. Springing into action to get ready for school as fast as I can, I dashed to the bathroom for a quick bath, to my room to change and to the kitchen to eat my breakfast and to bid farewell to my father and brother. ‘I just can’t wait to see him again.’

Giddy and bouncy at the same time, I waited for my cousin, Chiharu to arrive at the terminal as I scan through the crowd for him. But as Chiharu arrived to the moment we got our seats and to the time we got to our stop, the charming stranger’s presence could not be found.

Trying to ponder the predicament at hand, I questioned myself on what could have happened… It’s the exact time like the last time, exact place, but still no sign of him. ‘When will I see him again? Is this right? Is this normal? Am I still sane or am I in a journey to obsession? Why can’t I stop thinking of him?’

Days passed but still no sign of him, ever since that little fiasco happened I never saw him again. Frustration and depression reigned over my body. I couldn’t decipher as to what, why and how I’m going to get through this. I don’t even know why I’m this affected by a mere stranger. ‘Why can’t I seem to get him off my mind?’

Almost everyday I waited, anticipated, let down, got delusional, frustrated and depressed. But still no sign of him, even his shadow were never cast down on that same terminal. I smacked my head on the wall, trying desperately to wake up from this obsessive sensation wrapped around that I couldn’t breathe freely anymore.

I groaned, and heavily sighed, ‘I think I officially lose my mind.’

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It was just one of those unfortunate days of bad weather. I looked up the gloomy sky, threatening to spill its excessive contents on me. ‘Why on earth out of all these days, did I now forget to bring an umbrella or even a jacket?’ I inwardly groaned. ‘And just when Chiharu is out of town.’ It’s too late to turn back home and grabbed one, I’m way behind my schedule and I can’t afford to be late today. So, I silently prayed for a change of weather.

My head began to throb as I felt warmth in my body. I shiver to the gentle breeze that passed and almost collapsed from it. ‘I think I’m going to be sick.’ I touched my forehead and felt the fever coming down on me.

‘Talk about bad timing.’ I staggered to the terminal, as the long line awaits me. An announcement posted in front of the terminal caught my eye. There was a shortage of buses today due to some technical difficulties. So that’s the cause of the line to be so long that some of us are standing outside the waiting shed. ‘Oh no, I’m going to be late. This can’t be happening.’ I heavily sighed, and attempted to think positive, ‘what’s the worse that could happen.’ As I reassure myself everything would be alright, a big droplet of water drop on my forehead. ‘Ok hold that thought. Me and my stupid thoughts,’ I silently grumbled.

I looked up the sky and as expected the traitorous clouds spill its unwanted contents. I tried to curse life and its affiliates, how could someone be this ill-fated. Groaning from frustration, I bow my head and pondered silently on what to do. ‘I can’t leave the line because I can’t be late for school and there isn’t a single tree in sight to take cover with.’

I continue to argue with myself, as I felt dizzy from the throbbing ache in my head. The world swirls around me gracefully like a twirling professional ballerina. I then closed my eyes surrendering from it, fully aware of my condition and waited for the impact of the cement. But it never came. Realization arouse me, the rain had suddenly stopped. I slowly open my eyes and was taken back with a pair of worried amber eyes. He was holding me trying to support my weight and an umbrella shielding us from the cruel weather.

“Are you okay?” the kind stranger asked. His husky and deep voice, his worried amber eyes, his warm and caring personality, his gentle hold of me shock my very soul. I lost my voice and my sanity again, seeing him again this close. I even forgot the throbbing pain and fever that I had earlier, I just couldn’t believe who stood before me.

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There were no words she could muster to say as thoughts of him, bring back all the memories of the past days of depression. The stranger she thought she’ll never see again, the boy who haunted her every waking moments and dreams, the boy who she can’t get rid off her mind, the boy she longs to see for quite a long time, the boy she grew fond of and develop feelings for, the boy who took all her sanity away, the kind stranger holding her now… ‘It’s him.’

A weak smile crept up her face as she whispers to his ear, “Thank you.” He smiled at her, relief written on his face as he help her get up and hailed a taxi to take her to the hospital. Sakura bashfully decline his offer but his perseverance wavered her defenses and go along with his plea.

Sakura coolly got inside the taxi trying so hard to mask all her anxieties and to just relaxed and appreciate the sudden turn of events. She sighed as she quietly watched her savior. ‘This day isn’t as bad as I thought.’

bangag_pa 25Sep2007 1534H

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Chapter two: A Mesmerizing Enigma

Random thoughts could be extremely addictive, more compulsive than some habits really. I can’t help myself from wondering about an amusing event yesterday. There’s this girl who accidentally… I looked up the sky and drifted again, ‘I think, she wouldn’t do it purposely’… I shook my head and resumed my recollection. She accidentally sneeze three consecutive times at a man who was about to light his cigar. Every time she sneezes the light from his match dies…

I started to chuckle remembering her embarrassed and sorry face and the older guys’ pissed face. A sudden awkward atmosphere engulfed me. I tried to control my ecstasy as I glance around me and saw the weird expressions every single person in the 5 meter range around me. I ruffle my messy hair in humiliation, straighten up and briskly walk out of the area.

As soon as I was sure that I walked far enough from my earlier critics, I slow down my pace, shut my eyes and embraced the cooling effects of the early morning. I love mornings, its cool and cheery atmosphere, liberating and pleasing setting and the beaming crowd that appreciates the gentle rays of the sun and the cool breeze.

After appreciating the beauty of nature and its glorious aura, I resumed my way to the bus station. I was practically minding my own business when this rude person push through my right side, mumbled an inaudible sorry without even looking up at me and briskly proceeded to the bus line. I followed her, and was taken back by her familiar face. ‘It’s her.’

She grabbed an aisle seat next to an elderly woman at her sixties. While I just stupidly stood there, gawking at her like a fool, disappointment and anxiety evident on my face. Out of nowhere, a rough yet familiar hand take hold of my right arm and pulled me to a seat. “What the…” I almost choked on the next words I was about to swear to the stranger who curtly tug me.

“Now, now Syaoran that’s not the proper way to greet an old friend.” I sized up the person who just utters those words, ‘Am I dreaming? How could he and she be…? Is it really them or my eyes are just playing with me?’ I shook my head vigorously and rubbed my eyes to clear my vision. “Eriol? Tomoyo? What the…”

They both laugh breathlessly, “Looks like you’ve seen a ghost? Why? Are you worried that we both saw you gawking at that girl?” Tomoyo pout her lips at the girl’s direction as I blushed and even forgot their presence for the moment. ‘What’s with her anyway? Why can’t I stop thinking about her? Should I just approach her and introduce myself? No, no, no, that’s too forward? What if she gets terrified and run away from me? That’s too embarrassing… I…’

A nudge on my left disrupt my perplexing thoughts. I shifted to that direction and was welcomed by my smirking friends. They were giving me those infamous looks that I’ll do everything to hook you up with that girl you like look. Quite a long title for a look but that’s the best way to describe it. They’re match making modes are switch on; I have unleashed my personal hell. ‘Waaa,’ I screamed silently in my head, as they sneak glances at me while whispering to each other and laughing manically.

Just when Tomoyo began to stand up to approach the girl, I desperately blurted out, “Hey, so you mean to say Tomoyo was the one to propose? What kind of a man are you then, Eriol? Letting her take charge and be the man in your relationship, tsk tsk tsk.” They both turn red and started to roll with laughter. “That was so low man, you’re getting desperate,” Eriol said heartily.

Getting the reactions I’ve foresee, I let them taste their own medicine and teased them endlessly to desperately distract them from my obsession. At last, we reached our bus stop and I could escape the tremendous pressure my so called friends are giving me involving that emerald eye girl.

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‘Am I too early? What’s taking her so long? Wait, what?’ I whacked my forehead earning curious glances from my fellow bus mates. What’s wrong with me? I just can’t help myself drooling at a certain girl. And what’s worse is that she’s not even my girlfriend. Is it wrong for me to fantasize about another girl? Or is it just normal for us guys to admire other people. ‘Urggh’ I shrugged uncomfortably at my seat confused and desolated.

The art of depression hangs in the air. ‘Will I figure this out before it’s too late? Why am I so hung up with a girl I hardly know? Is this considered as cheating already? Oh God, why?’ I mentally slap myself and try to shake these thoughts out of my mind. As I struggle for control, two girls hastily walk pass me and sat at the parallel seats raucously.

I muttered silent curses as they rudely slammed my knees to get to their seats as if there are competing for it. Satisfied with my unspoken irritation, I looked up to see the faces of these rude intruders.

‘Are my eyes playing with me again? How is it possible, three days in a row? Coincidence or fate?’ I can’t believe that the girl in my fantasy just minutes ago is right in front of me in the flesh. ‘Ok, ok just breathe. Inhale, exhale,’ I tried to calm myself as to not get any suspicion from anybody.

As I overtook control of myself at last, I watched intently every move, every expression and every word coming from her and her acquaintance. ‘Sheesh, I’m like a stalker,’ I gasped shaking my head in disgust. I silently groaned at my behavior. I can’t help myself to get any information about her, to know her better, and maybe then discover what approach I have to do. ‘Say what? I’m already formulating a plan? Sheesh, Eriol’s right, I’m getting desperate.’

I try to refocus and just observe quietly and hang on for my sanity. So drawn to her, I even almost throw myself at her feet when she was nudged by her friend that she got knocked of her seat. She instantly recomposed herself and gave her friend a deathly glare. It’s so cute. But I held on my ground and just smiled at their antics and got loss in her eyes.

Attempting to control my unusual behavior, I relaxed my shoulder and calmly watch her every move. ‘Even her wondering face is so cute.’ What? I just can’t help myself, grinning manically at her. She then scans the passengers of the bus and almost saw what I was doing. I try to turn my gaze somewhere else before she discovers what I was doing. But it was too late my body’s not listening to my commands and just frozenly smile at her. She just keenly stares at me. Disgust, surprise or thrilled? I can’t describe her facial expression, so I just shyly continue to smile.

Not until she began to redden. Am I causing her to blush or to get angry? She then bowed her head and hid her face from me. ‘Shit! What should I do? Should I go explain and apologized? Wait apologize for what? Smiling? Great just great! She thinks I’m a maniac or something.’ I shrugged but still can’t stop gawking at her and smiling.

To my surprise, she peek through her bangs and again was apparently caught. ‘Oh shit! Not again. What’s happening to me? What is this feeling? I didn’t even felt it from Rika. Wait! What? I’m comparing her to my girlfriend. This got to stop! Dammed! stop smiling, just stop it!’ I scolded myself. But still to no avail, I can’t control any parts of my body.

The bus started to slow down and pull over a stop. I then recognized it as my stop, I sighed as relief took over me. I hastily pick up my things, stood up, wave my hand as a sign of apology and got off the bus.

I broodingly walk to my university, ‘How could she get me this affected? So anxious yet excited at the same time? I don’t even know her? I’m loosing my mind.’

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‘I just can’t believe she cheated on me after four years.’ A week without sleep, mulling things over, I rolled to the other side of my bed. No matter how many times I change my position I still can’t get any sleep.

Ring… Ring… Ring…

The phone kept ringing but I didn’t stir and waited for the machine to take over. It was Eriol again, “Dude, you’ve got to stop hiding. I know your hurt but you can’t do this to yourself. Stop wasting your depression on just one silly girl. You don’t deserve her. You don’t deserve this. Just…”

Beeeep. The answering machine ended. I guess Eriol’s speech was lengthy that the machine couldn’t hold it. Repeating what my best friend said in my head, I sat up and thoughtfully consider his advice. ‘His right, I don’t deserve her, I don’t deserve this. I need to move on. I need to forget. But… how?’

Weeks past, I thought I had forgotten all about her. I stroll down at a nearby park, still knock out of my senses. Haven’t been in contact with anyone, transfer to another school, change my numbers and move to a different apartment. But somehow Eriol had tracked me down, I just hope she doesn’t.

Just one single memoir shatters my very being and drives me again to the brink of sanity. One memoir could dictate your mood for a day or even a week, depending on how long you are brave enough to face it. Face your fears, your demons, and your worst nightmare. I’m terrified to remember any painful memories coz I was afraid it might trigger something that I’ve been trying to hide from.

‘I haven’t moved on.’

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Still dazed from the past few weeks, I wander the streets to my apartment and something caught my eye, a certain auburn hair girl passed by. I instantly stop and tried to remember someone that just looks like her. I then remembered the girl from the bus. ‘Is it her?’

Without hesitation, I turn and run after her just to be humiliated. It wasn’t her. ‘What the hell was I thinking? What would I even do if it was her?’ I quickly apologized and run the opposite direction.

‘What’s with me? Why am I acting like a stupid boy with a silly infatuation? Wait, already an infatuation? Just after three consecutive days? Sheesh!’ I missed her smile, her luscious lips, her silky auburn hair, petite and fragile body, soft pearly skin. ‘Shit! I’m really that obsessed?’

A sudden urge took over me, as I ran to the bus station and saw a glimpse of her getting on the bus. I ran to the bus but I never made it the bus took off as soon as she got in. ‘Dammed, why am I running after her anyway? What would I even say? Introduce myself, then court her then what? Am I doing this to get over my past? This got to stop. She doesn’t deserve me. I don’t deserve a great girl like her.’

I walked back my apartment gloomy as ever, ‘I just hope there’s someone for me.’ I sat at the steps of the building and sighed, ‘I just hope it was her.’

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‘What’s up with today?’ I mumbled to myself as I scan the sea of strangers in the bus terminal. After weeks of hiding, I finally decided to face the facts and moved on with my life. But the weather seems to reflect the feelings I had inside. The dark clouds loomed over the earth as if trying to succumb it wholly.

The clouds then spilled its unwanted contents vigorously. Luckily, I accidentally stuffed my umbrella into my back pack earlier. As I got shelter from it, something caught my eye. An auburn girl was walking unsteadily and completely drenched. She then started to collapse; I quickly ran to her and attempt to catch her before she hits the pavement.

“Are you okay?” I asked worriedly. Familiar emerald eyes meet mine. Her delicate face, her short auburn silky hair, petite and fragile body, pearly smooth skin and those eyes, those emerald eyes, it’s her. But she never utter a reply, fear crept up my facial features as I carefully fix my hold on her.

‘Another coincidence or is it really destiny? Is she the one who would help me forget? Maybe she’s really the one for me. Dammit, she’s sick and you’re thinking of how to get her already just to forget. You’re one sick… But I never felt this way with Rika; I never cared for her like a care for this mysterious girl. What’s with her? What’s this feeling at the pit of my stomach?’ My heart begun to beat furiously as if it’s going to explode, I secretly patted my chest to calm it down.

A soft ‘Thank you’ broke my stupor, as she leans closer and weakly whisper those kind words to my ear. I smiled at her, relief written all over my face as I help her get up and hailed a taxi to take her to the hospital. She bashfully declines my offer but my perseverance wavered her defenses and go along with my request.

We sat quietly in the stuffy taxi. ‘Is it really the taxi or the atmosphere around us seems so suffocating?’

Occasionally, I secretly glance at her direction just to check on how she’s doing or maybe something else. I really don’t know. All I know is that I need to know her not just to forget but because of this feeling that I couldn’t explain yet. Maybe Eriol knows. Though, I’m definite that this isn’t a rebound thing. I sighed hopefully, ‘Maybe she’s the one for me.’

bangag_pa 11 Oct2007 1258

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Chapter three: Afraid for love to fade

Disclaimer: I don’t own the title and the song/lyrics coz I’ve borrowed it from the song ‘Afraid for love to fade’ by Jose Marie Chan. Neither do I own CCS, how I wish though.

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Notes: the italicized words that are centralized are part of the lyrics of the song ‘Afraid for love to fade by Jose Marie Chan’ it’s really a sweet song it had been revived by ‘The Company’

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The chilling atmosphere of the city crept up in my arms as it seeps through my demented façade. The harsh rustling of the twigs of the trees broke my stupor as the swishing of the winds ruffle my already messy hair. ‘What’s happening to me? Why can’t I forget about Sakura after what he clearly said?’

“Stay away from my sister!” I shook my head vigorously to stop the scene from playing again in my head. Pulling my hair out of frustration, I groaned, “Urrgh… I can’t take this!”

Disconcerted, I stood up from the bench I’ve been spilling my guts at for a couple of hours now. The gloomy weather that just roared its suppression matched the mood that I’m in, perfectly. I can’t believe I’ve been this hang up with just a girl I officially met two weeks ago but been fantasizing for months now. ‘How come I’ve never felt this from any of my past girlfriends? But she’s not just an ordinary girl; there must be something really special in her that made me feel this weird. Yeah, she’s so bubbly that you get infected with her cheerfulness, so innocent like a child who sees everything positively, caring… Ahh… will you just snap out of it Syaoran.’

My head’s in a jam
Can’t take you off my mind
From the time we met
I’ve been beset by thoughts of you
And the more that I ignore this feeling
The more I find myself believing
That I just have to see you again

I wandered through the darkening atmosphere emitted by the bad weather swallowing the day as fast as it can. Dim street lights flickered as I found myself in an unkempt park. Thoughts clouded my already jammed head. I can’t seem to shove this feeling that’s been haunting me for the past weeks. So pissed off with myself, I kick a random stone in my way and received a response that I didn’t expect.

“Ouch! Where did that come from?” A girl from the far left corner of the park muttered scratching her head in annoyance. She then looked up at the sky questioning it and glaring at it. “Is it raining rocks now?”

At that comment, I sweat dropped and almost lost my balance from amusement. I tried to decipher the figure’s face as the whole park cast huge shadows all over the place that you can’t see anything visibly unless you came close enough. Cautiously, I advance to the girl who is still glaring at the darkening sky.

The girl, who had sensed my approaching presence, squint her eyes to see who I was. She then back away from me slowly until both of our features are visible enough through the dim lamp posts. We both freeze from our spots as we realize who’s in front of us.

“Sakura?”

I can’t let you pass me by
I just can’t let you go
But I know that I am much too shy to let you know
Afraid that I might say the wrong words and displease you
Afraid for love to fade before it can come true

“Syaoran? Is that you?” She seized me through her questioning eyes. Emerald eyes that sparkled endlessly even through the dark sky. Her face then glowed and smiled at me as she, to my amazement, advances and hugs me. “It is you. It’s really you. I can’t believe I’ll see you again. It’s not that I don’t want to see you again but after what my brother did I never thought you would show up again. You see, it happens all the time, whenever a boy comes close to me. But don’t worry I’ll never let it happen to you again…”

I stand there shocked, terrified and pleased at the same time. Who wouldn’t be? The girl of my dreams just ran to me and hugged me, just like in the movies. No, not just only hugged me but, is still hugging me. I’m like a statue from my spot as I recognized her but as she hugs me I even freeze more. How frozen could I get? She kept on talking and talking but I just stood there staring awkwardly at her, having no idea on what to do or say. I just gawk at her features and nods at the words that came out from her luscious lips. Oh, how I long to feel them. I shook my head to clear my longing thoughts of her and to focus on her accounts.

She then stops talking as she perceives my silence and facial expression. Realizing our position, she tenderly let go of her hold on me, a tint of pink crept up to both our cheeks as she sat on the bench nearby, me in tow. 'Idiot now look at what you’ve done,' a voice echoed at the back of my head. I sighed and sat beside her, longing for her warmth and loss for words. I peek at her direction, studying her features from head to toe. ‘God, I must be the luckiest person in the world right now.’ I then drew my eyes back to the sky to diminish any suspicion from watching her every move since I saw her.

Like a child again
I’m at a loss for words
How does one define a crush combined with longing?

I shifted in my seat uneasily as I gathered enough courage to come up with something to say. “I umm… I’m sorry,” I mumbled, scratching the back of my head in utter shyness. She gave me this cute puzzled look. Clearing my throat to stop my stuttering and quivering voice, I tried again. “The stone, I kicked it I have no intention of hitting anyone. I’m… I’m re-really sorry.” But she just gawk at me, I then did the unexpected that I even surprised myself. Carefully, I extend my hand to reach her, brush off her bangs and gently soothe the red mark in her forehead, and kissed it.

Realizing what I have done, I quickly withdrew my hand, evaded her eyes, lowered my head in absolute shame, and promptly apologize. “I’m sorry. I really…” but before I finished my apology I felt her finger on my lips to stop me from going on further. She released a suppressed giggle, squeezed my hand lightly and caressed it to ease my anxiousness. We stayed like that for awhile; smiling and staring at each other, lost in our own world. Inch by inch the gap between our faces shrink… a cold drop of water touched our clasped hands.

Longing to possess you oh so dearly
I’m obsessed with you completely
I’ll go mad if I can’t have you

Hand in hand we ran in the dusk and try to find refuge from the icy drops of rain. We soon take cover at a bus stop waiting shed. Soaking wet bring about by the nasty storm, we sat down shivering feverishly as another cold wind passes by. Taking in the cold seeping through my insides right now, I glance at the girl beside me pale from our condition. I drape my arms on her shoulder as I try to give my warmth to her. Ten minutes had passed and still no sign of any bus or taxi. Uncontrollably shivering more, I gently grab her closer to fully hug her form from the cold. She hugs me back in return, pressing her body tightly.

Instincts kicking in, I whispered to her quivering form. “We can’t wait for the bus at this rate, will freeze in a matter of minutes. We can go to my apartment its just a block away from here, so we could get some warmth and change from these wet clothes before we freeze to death.”

She slowly let go of me and stared at me anxiously. Again, I take hold of her shoulders and looked her straight in the eyes. “You do trust me? Right?” She then nodded slowly and smile at me. I took her hand and dash to the direction of my apartment.

I can't let you pass me by
I just can’t let you go
But I know that I am much too shy to let you know

Blindly, I reached in the dark apartment for the switch. Turn on the lights and the heater and hurriedly get some clothes from my closet, hand it to her and guided her to the bathroom. As she shuts the door, I quickly rush to my room and change. I then went to the kitchen, put a kettle in the stove and wait for the water to boil. A click and a creak echoed into my quiet apartment as she emerges from the bathroom, in a quite huge t-shirt and sweat pants. Smiling at me, she politely thanked me and asked to use the phone. But as she was to dial the number, a crackling thunder and blinding lightning strikes and cut off the power source and the telephone lines.

She shrieked and run towards my direction in the dark. A loud thump and then a crashed as she collided strongly into my body, we hit the floor with me on top of her. Something soft was on top of my lips, nervously I open my eyes, pleading this wasn’t a dream. And was greeted by familiar emerald eyes as the lightning outside gave me a chance to see through her eyes. We both stayed still, not daring to move but then to my surprise she closed her eyes and smiled. I took it a sign and attempts to deepen the kiss. But things really aren’t going my way, a familiar shrill echoed in the apartment. ‘Shit, why now. That damn kettle.’

Afraid that I might say the wrong words and displease you
Afraid for love to fade before it can come true

I uneasily let go of Sakura’s, now, puffy lips and help her up. The darkness wallows up our figures as I try to see her reaction after the kiss. Series of lightning turns up every five minutes that I could peek through the shadows and see her face. Shock ran though my body, as I saw the grim expression on her face. I brushed her bangs from her face tip her chin upwards and look her in the eye. The pain in her eyes cut some deep wounds in me that I started to suffocate. In shame, I let go of her chin and lowly bow my head. ‘Jerk, how could you take advantage of a situation like that? You were the one who told her ‘don’t you trust me?’ speech. Now, look what have you done? Shit!’ Trying desperately to blame myself, I attempt to formulate my apology speech to her and how to make up to Sakura…

But as another lightning strike, something red has caught my eyes. “Blood?” I mumbled softly. Gently, I quickly sweep her off her feet and carry her bridal style to the sofa and inspected her left ankle. A chunk of glass was still stuck. I hastily look for some candles and first aid kit. And again probe on the injured feet on how to get it out as painless as possible.

As smoothly as a medical student could, I took out the glass and tend to the wound meticulously as I can to ease the pain. After bandaging her wounds, I looked up at her and notice the tear stricken face and felt revulsion in the pit of my entity. Never in my life, have I’ve been this terrified at someone else’s pain. I know it’s just a simple wound but I would never ever want to see her in any kind of pain. And I solemnly vouch for that.

The howls of the wind echoed through the apartment and give this eerie atmosphere that even sent shivers through my whole body. Hesitantly, I sat beside Sakura and observe her demeanor. She was checking out the bandaged foot and testing it in the ground if she could use it securely. But as I have expected, she winced in pain and lost her balance. On impulse, I smoothly catch her however I miscalculated my position and both slip on the couch, this time landing on top of me.

Her mesmerizing gaze caged me from everything that I didn’t dare to move a muscle. She slowly gives me an innocent smile, her eyes twinkling with passion that I couldn’t understand, Sakura leisurely closes the gap between us. My breath hitches in anticipation, my heart began to race as I fight for control on my tense body. ‘It’s a dream right? She isn’t going to kiss me is she? But why? Why would she even…’ But before I finish the inquiries in my head, I heard a soft ‘thank you’ from her as a sweet soft and intoxicating essence filled my inner being. I relish her gesture by deepening the kiss more passionately, and try to gently but confidently show Sakura my true feelings.

Spontaneously, my left hand caress her cheek, run up to her cherry blossom scented hair and to her back as I stroke it affectionately. I brought my other hand as to embrace her fully and to make her closer to me. As all human beings do, a breath for oxygen tore us apart. She smiled amusingly at my sour face as she giggles, “someone’s disappointed.” At that, I smirked and pull her into another passionate yet longer kiss.

I can’t let you pass me by
I just can’t let you go

“I think I’m falling for you.” He whispered into the air as he quietly watched her sleeping form. He brushes off the bangs on her face and kisses her forehead as he retires to his own room.

Unknown to him, the certain emerald girl was widely awake, still embracing on every second spent with him. Sakura stares at his retreating back as she whispers into the quiet night before she dozed off. “Me too.”

Let me say the things
And say the words to let you know

The sweet aroma of the morning awakes the young lad from his deep slumber. Smiling to himself, he cheerfully gets off his bed and quickly starts his morning routine. As he was about to strip his clothes for a shower, he then notices the familiar scent in the room, the other person in the room felt his presence and peek through the shower curtain… “Ahhh…” They both scream while pointing a finger with one another as they scan the person in front of them from head to foot.

The girl yelled, blushing, “Pervert!!! What the hell…”

“Look, Sakura this isn’t what you think. The door is unlocked and I thought no one’s in here. I’m… I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to…” Syaoran stammered nervously, head hang low in shame. He was then cut short of his speech when Sakura pulled him closer smiling. Confuse and tense, he uneasily asks, “Sa-sakura what…” But before he finishes his question, her lips met his in a lingering and passionate kiss until…

The young lad moaned a little bit louder, “Sakura… sakura… sakura…” until he notices something unusual. ‘Her lips, why is it so fuzzy? Her scent is so similar to mine, she even taste different? Why is her face so hazy now?’

Syaoran hastily opens his eyes, as he realizes the object of his affection was not in the room. Irritated, he tosses his pillow irately across the room. “Stupid dream…”

The morning radiance filled the quite serene apartment, and sweeps its mood neatly. He groggily zone out of his room and find his way to the bathroom. He rubs his eyes lazily which were still half close. So sleepily he walked around his apartment to his bathroom only to bump on something, or someone.

I would rather say the awkward words than lose you
Or for love to fade before it can come true
Afraid for love to fade before it can come true

Whatever it is, Syaoran decides to grab it before it fall face flat on the floor. He then heard a sudden yelp as he pull it towards him a little roughly. Drowsily, he opens his eyes, amber meets emerald. Surprised, Syaoran ask for good measure, “Sa-sakura?”

Sakura just gave him this innocent smile and greeted him, “Good morning to you too, sleepyhead.”

Confuse, he just smile and then blush at the proximity of their faces. He uneasily let go of his hold on her and scratch his head in utter shyness. “Um… I… I’m sorry again… I…” but was again cut off by her finger on his lips as she shakes her head in disapproval.

“You always apologize for everything, even if you don’t have too. Look, I’m really ok.” Sakura cutely pouted. He is so mesmerize by her voice, her eyes, her whole angelic façade, that he just gawk at her for merely ten minutes straight. The chirping of the birds, the funny sounds the television of the neighbor projects, and even the annoying noise of the traffic jam didn’t disturb his trance until a cough brought him back to reality.

The ambiance of the room suddenly got stuffy and he felt suffocated from embarrassment. But then the serene apartment was filled with this cute giggle as he looked up to a very amused Sakura. Her laughter was insanely addictive that he too laughed out loudly.

The aftereffects of their laughter brought them out of breath and hungry and so they decided to eat their breakfast. As they share their bowls of cereals and milk, Syaoran sneak a glance at the beautiful maiden beside him. Satisfied with his stolen glance he ponder on the things that’s been bothering him for quite sometime.

My head’s in a jam
Can’t take you off my mind…

‘It wasn’t just a dream…’ He stares at her locks that lightly fall on her face, the frame of her face the delicate traces of her innocence, and her lips… ‘…the kiss? It was real then?…’ He continue to gawk at her, her petite figure that outlines her very fragile structure, her long legs that… ‘her ankle, the wound, her injury. Is she…’

Sakura notices his eyes on her cut, she blush at the concern his eyes reveal. Unexpectedly, she tips his chin upwards and smile at him. “It’s ok, don’t worry it doesn’t hurt that much and it isn’t your fault.”

Let me say the things and say the words to let you know
I would rather say the awkward words than lose you

Her words sent a tingling sensation all over his now agile body. Syaoran couldn’t shook off this feeling that he just again lowered his head to hide his blush. He tries to encourage himself to say everything out in the open before he looses this chance.

‘I just need to be honest with her, with everything I just need to before I lose myself, before I lose her. Ok, I can do this. Haa… Breath in, breath out… Huh huh huh… He exhales quietly.’

Fumbling with his fingers, he began, “Umm… ano… Sa-sakura, I know we just met a few days before and you might think I’m going too fast or I’m a stalker but I have notice you a few weeks before…” He tries to look up and see Sakura’s reaction which projects a very calm aura. Syaoran then continue trying not to nibble too hard on his lower lips, “I’ve notice you on the bus for three days in a row, and been observing you since then.”

Sakura’s eyes widened in shock for she thought that it was only a one-sided attraction, too bad Syaoran was so nervous he never looked up again in utter shame. Syaoran, then continue after pausing thinking over what the next words he would say, failing to see the smile and pink tint that crept up the face of the girl beside him.

“IREALLYREALLYLIKEYOU!CANYOUPLEASEGIVEMEA
CHANCETOKNOWYOUBETTER?ITWOULDBEANHONOR
TOBEYOURBOYFRIEND? I know it’s really sudden but I can’t seem to hold on any longer. I’ll go mad if I can’t have you and…”

A very amuse girl interrupted his confession, “Say that again, I didn’t catch that. Could you talk a little slower?”

Syaoran who is now very red from embarrassment tries to muster his courage again and this time talk a little bit slower and clearly, “Sakura, I really really like you since the day I saw you in that bus, when you sneezed in the man’s cigar the first day, bumped me and sat beside the old lady on the second day, and when you got knock off by your friend the third day. It sounds crazy, but I’m not stalking you, it just I think fortunate coincidences that I happen to see you those days. I would like to know you better. Can you please give me a chance to know you more? It would be an honor for me to be your boyfriend. I know it’s really sudden but I can’t seem to hold on any longer. I’ll go mad if I can’t have you but don’t get me wrong I’m not this aggressive it’s just that I don’t know… I think you’ve knocked me out pretty hard.” Syaoran then bravely faces the object of his affection which is currently stun from his confessions. He looked straight into her eyes, “Please don’t think that I’m pressuring you now, I’ll wait for your answer even if…”

Sakura jumped from her seat and hugged the bewildered boy. “I…I... sakura…” he stammered. But she ignored him and kisses him on the cheek and professes. “I’m glad you told me, coz if not I would have.” Syaoran taken aback, look at her confusedly but stayed still to hear the details. “I too, have noticed you and was mesmerized with you. I thought I was going insanely obsessed with you that I’ve become depressed when I never saw you again after those two days and felt so blessed when you saved me from hitting the ground on that stormy day.” Syaoran smiled at her and encourage her to go with her account, his hands sweaty from anxiety and shove them into his pockets. “I’ve never had anyone before and not aware of these feelings that I have for you, but I’m glad that you clarified them for me, what these things meant.” She gave him the sincerest smile he have ever received and caress his relaxed yet blushing face, “I’m flattered with your offer and very thrilled to accept it.” She then cupped his face with both her silky hands and said, “There’s no pressure, I wouldn’t want to have it any way, I like to be your girlfriend.”

Syaoran who was loss for words, and overwhelmed with her admittance, hugged her tightly and savor her essence in his arms. She chuckle at his reaction but was soon caught up with his lips locking on hers. Her heart began to speed off wildly, her breath hitching from anticipation and her insides squirm insanely. His lips caress hers passionately begging for entrance as she willingly submit to him. Their tongues mingled expertly as their spirits interact with one another. Hearts now tangle, souls intertwined bound to discover the extremities of this thriving sensation, as they settled themselves in the arms of the one they’ve longed for.

Chances of finding love or destiny has its complexities. Popping out unexpectedly in such peculiar schemes, handing over opportunities to be acknowledged and nurtured. Grab, before it’s too late. Take a chance, take a risk.

Don’t let it fade away before it can come true.

THE END

Bangag_pa Oct20 1335-Nov6 1213