Incorporated'

By Majah

Disclaimer:

I don't own CCS and xXxHolic, but I do own the story in this fic and things that are non-CCS and non-xXxHolic related. All the name of places, historical events and other things mentioned, which you don't seem to know IRL, are products of my imagination. Any similarities with the actual thing are purely coincidental.

Author's Note:

This is it, guys.

Chapter Thirty-Five: "For the Third Time Part 2" – FINAL CHAPTER

"Are you sure about this?" Sakura's concerned words echoed in the small room where both she and Syaoran were currently resting.

It was a bit chaotic outside as the reporters' adrenalin hasn't subsided yet. Even though, the heavy atmosphere changed to a livelier one after Syaoran's proposal, there were still many issues to face ahead. And one of them, Syaoran wanted to face immediately.

"Yes, I am sure," he replied firmly as he stood by the window and looked beyond the gaps of the blinds. The crowd outside doesn't seem to show any signs of dispersing.

"But," Sakura's unsure and worried eyes beckoned him. "Don't you think it's better to go to the hospital first?"

"Sakura," Syaoran reached out for the girl's hand. "That man has been a part of both of our lives. I need to do this."

"Okay," she replied to him while she lowered her eyes. "I do feel guilty. I am angry that he did all of this at this extent but the bottom-line is that I also hurt him. He is probably the one hurt the most." Then, she looked up at Syaoran and nodded her head with determination. "I should stay, too and talk to him."

But, Syaoran shook his head. "No. This talk is between two men. You can talk to him afterwards."

With this, Sakura didn't push it any further. She also knew that sooner or later, the two men needed to face each other properly.

A knock on the door made Syaoran let go of Sakura's hand as he turned towards the sound with anticipation. Eriol's head peered inside without fully opening the door.

"We are here. Are you sure?" the lawyer asked the same question as Sakura.

Syaoran nodded.

Eriol stepped aside to let a few people come in. Still wearing yesterday's clothes, Yukito entered the room with his hands firmly clasped by handcuffs in front of him. Two police officers accompanied him from behind as he slowly made his way towards Syaoran. He stopped a few meters from the Li and smiled at him bitterly.

"Damaski-is."

Syaoran met the man's eyes. "Tavenzouh," he said calmly. Then, he told the rest of the occupants of the room to leave.

"Are you sure, Sir?" one of the police officers was reluctant to leave. "He is a criminal. He tried to kill you."

"I know," Syaoran nodded with reassurance. "I will not hold anyone of you responsible if anything is to happen."

"But, Sir!" They continued to protest. Even Eriol looked uncomfortable with the situation especially since Syaoran was not in his top condition to defend himself if anything was to happen.

"Syaoran…," his friend started to say. But Syaoran cut him off.

"It's fine, Eriol." He looked at the lawyer firmly. "I will handle this."

For a while both Sakura and Eriol looked at each other, before the latter nodded and the former sighed in defeat. Eriol motioned for everyone to leave the room.

"We'll be just at the door, Sir," one of the police officers said.

Syaoran nodded. He didn't know what kind of state of mind Tsukishiro Yukito was in right now, but he knew he had to face him. There were things he had always wanted to say to his former InterVEST friend, and that was on top of what the man had tried to do to him.

Once the door closed, the men could only look at each other. The room was relatively small, more like a file room with a long table and chair at the corner. There were windows at the two adjacent walls which gave them a view of the runway outside.

"I'm not going to apologize," Yukito broke the silence.

"I don't expect you to," Syaoran remarked.

"But, I'm not stopping you from implicating me," the older man said.

"I know," Syaoran looked at him intently. "But despite it all, I would like you to know that I'm not angry with you."

Yukito's brows shot up. "Even Sakura got angry with me. It is hard to believe…with your character…that you wouldn't be."

"And which character is that per se?" The Li asked. "In all honesty, I am tired with all these personalities being differentiated against one another when they all pertain to just one person."

With this, Yukito became silent as he looked down. Syaoran continued.

"I am not exactly innocent, but I did try my hardest to fight what I felt. What can I do?" He looked at Yukito with defeated eyes. "No matter where I go, my path crosses with Sakura. It sounds like an excuse for all of this, but I know that there are things in our lives that are inevitable." He paused for a moment and paced towards the window. "It is these things that no matter how hard we fight them, we always end up at the same place, and regardless of whatever choice you made at first, it will once again come to you as if asking you 'Are you sure? Are you really sure? Because you might be missing something? There is something you didn't see the first time you made your decision.' "

"Are you saying that fate wants this to happen?" Yukito said.

Syaoran shrugged. "I don't like the idea of 'Fate'. I am annoyed with the idea that I don't have any control with my life, but…sometimes I can't deny the existence of something pulling the strings in the background. Well in my life, one of the manifestation of that existence may very well be named Hiiragizawa Eriol." He said with a laugh. "I don't have the complete information as of now. I only heard a bit…here and there."

"And Sakura-chan has George," Yukito added.

Syaoran raised a brow upon hearing this. "Ah, so it was the zombie butler after all." Was George the one responsible with the signed page of Section 41 from Sakura? It would make sense since the butler was like Sakura's shadow. "Hmmm…I have to ask them later."

"Looks like there are things you still don't know," Yukito remarked.

Syaoran gave a light scoff. "That is an understatement. But it doesn't matter. I am quite happy with the outcome."

Again, Yukito arched a brow. "Even if that outcome almost took your life?"

Syaoran gazed at the other man intently. "It was all worth it." He spoke with full confidence. "But if I was in your position, I might have done the same thing. I am, after all, a Li. You, amongst all people, should know what we are capable of doing. So, no, I am not angry with you."

Yukito was silent, Syaoran could only continue.

"So far in my life, after Eriol, the next person I had ever regarded to be my friend, was you."

This statement brought a surprised expression from the older man.

"You can't believe it, can you?" Syaoran chuckled. "But, it's true. Being someone on top, it is difficult to find people you can truly call a 'friend'. Many would try to be one, but most of the time it is influenced by money, power by association or duties. I am surrounded by people with agendas. Heck, even Eriol has one." Then, he suddenly looked at Yukito like a light bulb just turned on over his head. "Come to think of it, you are the only one that doesn't have an agenda! Well…initially. It all went downhill when we learned each other's true identities." Syaoran laughed at the memory. "Imagine that!"

Yukito was startled with what he was hearing, but eventually chuckled lightly. "You are crazy, Li Syaoran. Do you know that?"

"Yeah," Syaoran's eyes glinted with amusement as he replied. "I wouldn't have made it this far in life if I weren't." Then, the Li's demeanor changed and on a more serious tone, he spoke. "This is something I've also said to Sakura in essence. If I wasn't a Li and you're not someone associated with a Kinomoto, would things be different as they are now? Would…," but he was cut-off by the other man.

"I would still be your friend," Yukito remarked on an equally serious tone. Then with a smile, the older man continued. "With no doubt. I would have treated you like Touya. And probably…possibly, even greater."

"Even if I stole your girl?"

It was Yukito's turn to chuckle. "Minus the feud and all, it would have been a gentleman's match."

"That blasted feud again," The Li cursed.

"Well, it's your side of the family that had always been aggressive."

"I am ending it."

Yukito thought he didn't hear it right. "Ending it?"

Syaoran inhaled deeply. "I am the heir of the Li family. In each generation, it always rests upon the heir to decide what to do. So far, I had been stubborn and refused to take over, but if necessary…I will go back, just to end all of this."

"What about SkyLark?"

"Sakura would be able to manage it."

"SkyLark is your dream and you are willing to let it go?"

Syaoran smiled. "I would have never thought of SkyLark if Agatha wasn't in the picture. If that is the case, then my true dream wasn't SkyLark in the first place."

"It was to be with Agatha," Yukito deduced. "No…," he shook his head. "It was to be with someone you can share your life with."

At that moment, the two men understood each other and gave in to the silence. It was unfortunate that their paths had crossed in the wrong way. Circumstance's cruelty could not be beaten. Still, both knew it had already been done. No one could turn back the time and correct the mistakes. What was left was to face the consequences.

A knock on the door interrupted their thoughts.

"Mr. Li," a guard opened the door. "It is time."

"I understand," Syaoran replied.

"This is farewell, then." Yukito remarked.

The Li nodded as he watched the policemen ushered Yukito out of the room. Once out of the door, Yukito briefly gazed at Sakura who was standing at the hallway.

"Yukito-kun…," she started to say. Sakura had been angry with the whole ordeal. She knew that Yukito had been extreme with his methods which caused her equally extreme pain that she had forgotten why everything had happened in the first place.

She cheated on him.

It was her fault.

"I'm sorry," Sakura found herself saying as Yukito passed by her.

The man shook his head. His voice was sad as he murmured, "Please be happy from now on. Truly happy." He smiled gently at her. "Goodbye."

His last words came out almost a whisper that Sakura restrained herself from speaking any further. Touya was within earshot as he watched the simple exchange between his sister and his friend. He had never felt so powerless in his entire life. Yukito was merely a victim of the feud, but he could not do anything for him. Yukito, who had been by their family's side all this time, was being escorted to jail. As if sensing his predicament, Yukito turned to Touya.

"It was my choice. I don't regret anything," he said to the eldest Kinomoto.

"Yuki…"

"Maybe...I do regret a bit but still at one point in time, it was what I wanted to do." Yukito remarked with a gentle smile. "But, I am relieved that I am not completely the monster that I had thought I was. That alone is enough to give me a peace of mind."

Touya's mouth was set in a grim line as he stared at Yukito. His mind was full of thoughts he would like to tell the other man, but eventually, he heaved a sigh of defeat.

"You will always be my best friend." Touya found himself saying instead.

"Touya…"

"Nothing has changed between us. Remember that."

Yukito bent down his head. For a moment, it was as if he was fighting the tears threatening his eyes. Yet, he had managed to gather his strength, and faced Touya with a genuine smile.

"Thank you."

It was Yukito's words before he was escorted out of the vicinity, which left Sakura and Touya watching his retreating back from afar.

"Mr. Li, aside from bruises and a broken arm, everything seems to be fine." Syaoran heard the doctor say as Sakura and a nurse helped him settle on the bed.

"That is good to hear," Sakura exclaimed. Relief flooded her eyes as she darted her gaze from the doctor to Syaoran.

"It would still be difficult to move in the next few days," the doctor supplemented. "They might be just bruises but they are all over. You need to lay down and rest. I don't know how Mr. Li had managed to walk straight up until now."

"Determination," Eriol's voice responded from behind as the lawyer entered the hospital room.

"More like stubbornness," Sakura countered.

Syaoran did not comment but instead asked the lawyer on another matter.

"How's the others? Rosa? Leon? Tom?"

"They're fine," Eriol assured Syaoran as he found his way at the side of the bed. He stood with his hands inside his pockets as he continued. "Rosa and Leon stabilized. Tom is being praised. Everyone's with their families right now."

"Good," Syaoran leaned back on the bed.

"What remains now is my confession," Eriol chuckled lightly. Both Syaoran and Sakura did not expect this sudden remark from the lawyer.

"I think I should leave the two of you to talk," Sakura said. The doctor nodded and left the room together with Sakura and the nurse.

Once alone, Eriol faced Syaoran with a very serious expression. "I am not going to make any excuses," he started to say. "I work for Clow Reed."

"I heard," Syaoran remarked.

"And Clow Reed is the master mind behind InterVEST."

"You have quite a boss," Syaoran said jokingly.

"I am surprised you are taking this lightly." The lawyer moved closer. "You do realize I am working behind your back? I had manipulated many things…you included."

"And did you 100% succeed in manipulating me?"

Eriol could only stare at Syaoran.

The Li shrugged, "Were you able to manipulate my feelings? Were you able to manipulate Sakura's?"

"No," Eriol replied.

"Even if you and Clow Reed…heck even George, though, I'm not sure from which clan he belongs to, orchestrated a way for me and Sakura to meet inside InterVEST, what are the chances that we will hit it off the moment that happened? Is there a guarantee that we will fall for each other?"

"No," Eriol replied once more.

"Yes, you had been quite a schemer, but this is something I know you are capable of doing right from the start. I hired you knowing all of this and do you know why?"

Eriol arched a brow questioningly.

"Because you are one hell of a lawyer." Then, Syaoran added. "And birds of the same feather flock together. I'm not exactly an angel. You, of all people, should know that."

"You're not normal, Li Syaoran."

"I'm extraordinary." Syaoran laughed. "Keep my friends close and my enemies closer. Though, I don't think you are an enemy, Eriol. Your characteristics posed a threat, yes…but an enemy, no."

The lawyer could only shake his head from disbelief. "What do I expect from someone who fell in love with his enemy."

"And a mere employee would not point a gun to the person who threatened the life of his employer," Syaoran pointed out, obviously aware of Eriol's enraged moment during his plane's disappearance.

"That…," Eriol didn't know how to explain it and only ended up taking his glasses off and began wiping it.

This earned another chuckle from the Li. Then, Syaoran's expression suddenly became serious. "Eriol, it's not the first time for me to hear that you have a gun, much more…a gun carrying that kind of insignia." It was this remark which caught Eriol off-guard. He blinked in surprise as Syaoran continued. "Looks like I also have a confession to make."

Syaoran shifted on the bed to properly face the lawyer as he thought of his words carefully. "How long do you think you can avoid your family? Your true family, I mean. You can change your name, Eriol…but by the end of the day you won't be able to hide from your past."

"It is already in the past. I intend for it to stay that way," Eriol said firmly.

"I don't know how Clow Reed had gotten into the picture, but I know deep down inside you can't completely let go of that past."

"I am living a different life now," Eriol insisted.

"Perhaps, but you can't forget. Otherwise; you wouldn't have kept that silver gun. Like my family which has an heirloom, that gun of yours had been passed down from one generation to another. That much, I know. That insignia is quite well-known—in par with the Li's and Kinomoto's. Though, the reputation is quite controversial and dark." Syaoran pointed out. "My gut is telling me that that boy you found to stand in as Agatha, 'Watanuki' was it? …Is from that side of your past. Unless, of course, you would admit that he is your bastard son." He threw in teasingly since the lawyer's mood was beginning to conjure terrifying clouds.

"He is my younger brother," Eriol cut-in.

"Oh," Syaoran blinked up at him. "Now, that's interesting. That explains the uncanny resemblance."

"Youngest amongst four brothers," The lawyer continued. "One father, four different mothers."

"Four different mothers?!"

A smirk crept on Eriol's face. "My father didn't marry anyone officially, but he took the sons. He only needed the sons. And if you know about the insignia in my gun, then you wouldn't be surprise as to why he wanted sons."

Syaoran was quiet for a moment as he observed Eriol. The lawyer was casually conversing with him about the matter, but he knew that it was an uncomfortable topic. He could sense that deep inside, Eriol was cringing, possibly feeling horrid.

"Eriol, I know you left that life, but the underworld is not an easy thing to escape from," Syaoran pointed out. "How long do you think the head of that family would remain silent behind bars? Are you related to that person?"

"He is my older brother," Eriol answered. "I see that you know that much."

"Eldest?"

"No," the lawyer shook his head. "He is the second son. I'm the third. Watanuki is the youngest. My eldest brother, unfortunately, met unprecedented cricumstances which he paid with his life. As for the details of those 'circumstances', I still can't bring myself tell."

"Why don't you sit, Eriol?"

"Hmmm, thank you, but no. I'm afraid if I sit, I will blurt out every single piece of shit of what happened to me and my family." The lawyer refused as he wore he glasses once again. He smiled at Syaoran. "He is getting a parole, by the way. This much I can tell you." Apparently referring to the second son of the family.

"I heard. That's why I reminded you." Syaoran said. "It took years for the police to bring him in, and now they are letting him walk out."

Eriol chuckled bitterly. "He is the head of the most notorious mafia syndicate in the city. He has 'means'."

"But why now? He already spent years in jail." Syaoran's bewilderment filled his face.

"Because Clow Reed is dying," Eriol flatly said.

"What?!"

"Clow Reed protected many people from my brother…including me. Clow Reed and my father were good friends. Reed is not part of the underworld, but he has powerful relations. In respect to my father's will of not touching a hair of Clow Reed, my brother was forced to keep a low-profile."

"No but wait…Jesus!" Syaoran didn't know how to digest everything. "Let's take this from one information at a time. At this rate, you haven't sat down!"

"The things I am telling you now is nothing compared to the whole enchilada if I sat down," Eriol remarked with a laugh, yet it was obvious that shadows were forming behind his glasses.

Syaoran shook his head. "First off, Clow Reed is dying?"

"Yes," the lawyer answered. "His health had been deteriorating for over a year now. It is bound to happen sooner or later."

"I'm...I'm sorry, Eriol."

"What for?"

"You are very loyal to him. That said, I know how much he means to you. And he had given his remaining strength to turn the wheels of InterVEST for both the Li and Kinomoto family. I wish I could thank him personally." Syaoran said. "Is it okay for you to be here?"

"He is with your mother," Eriol informed Syaoran. "They finally talked after all these years. I want him to be with his family at his very last moment."

Syaoran heaved a deep sigh. "Mother had been stubborn. I am glad she went to him voluntarily."

"Let your mother be your representative at his side for now."

The Li did not speak after that. This confused Eriol for a bit as he found Syaoran staring at him unblinkingly.

"Anything the matter?" the lawyer asked.

With his eyes still locked at Eriol's, Syaoran spoke. "Clow Reed isn't just dying, is he, Eriol? Tell me the truth."

For a moment, Eriol shifted from one foot to another. It was obvious that he was weighing things. He gave Syaoran another look which the other man met squarely. "Alright," the lawyer said in defeat. "Clow Reed is no longer with us."

"That explains the bloodshot eyes you have, and the reason why I haven't seen my mother since I stepped inside the hospital," Syaoran rubbed his temples with his free hand. "My condolences, Eriol. If Clow Reed can hear me now, I send him my gratitude."

"We're not supposed to tell you until you are well-rested. Doctor's orders."

"I'm fine. The only time I met him was when I was a child, and he and my mother fought." The Li looked at Eriol. "This is harder to you than it is with me."

The lawyer remained silent and bent his head.

"I told you, you should have sat down."

Eriol smiled, but still shook his head.

"Go take the day off, Eriol."

But the lawyer only shook his head once more.

Syaoran sighed. He was surrounded by stubborn and difficult people. Seeing that the lawyer doesn't want to budge, he decided to open another topic. "What will happen to InterVEST?" Syaoran inquired.

"It will still be InterVEST," Eriol answered.

"Clow Reed owns majority of the shares," Syaoran pointed out.

"Yeah."

Syaoran's brow arched. He was not expecting such a reserved answer from his lawyer. "Who will take over InterVEST's management?"

The lawyer merely lowered his eyes. His silence was deafening that Syaoran couldn't help but to push another question again despite the tragic circumstances. "There is more to it, isn't there?" He continued with a frown. "Eriol?"

"Clow Read left a will," the older man started to say. "I made that will myself. His shares are to be inherited by his family."

"Then, what seems to be the problem?"

"It turns out that the one I made wasn't the updated will." Eriol rubbed the bridge of his nose. "He had another one made without my knowledge." He reached out inside his coat and handed a rolled-up document to Syaoran. "This is just a copy of the revised will."

Syaoran took the document and read the contents. His eyes were wide when he realized what it said. "Eriol, Clow Reed left you InterVEST? Seriously? Entire control and management!" Syaoran was grinning from ear to ear. "This is good news!"

"No, it is not!" Eriol snapped. "I don't intend to accept it."

"Why not? If I put two and two together, I would say you practically ran InterVEST all this time. You were under Clow Reed's orders, but still…the one who pulled the strings was you. Tell me, who between you and the old man pushed that button and loaded the Ultimate Patch?"

"Me," Eriol answered.

"And who designed the Ultimate Patch and oversaw its development?"

"Me," the lawyer once again replied.

"Who managed the entire staff and crew of InterVEST?"

"Me."

Syaoran threw one hand in the air, "Then, I rest my case! You still doubt why Clow Reed left you everything?"

"Syaoran, it is not right for me to have everything. I am not related to him by blood."

"And who do you want to take over? My mother? What does she know about InterVEST or any online game for the matter?" Syaoran pointed out. "Heck, she wasn't even supportive of me back then. In case you forgot."

"You can take over," the lawyer threw back at the Li. "Technically, you are his kin."

"Have pity on me, Eriol! I have the Li Enterprise to take over, then I also have SkyLark. And now, you want to add InterVEST? I only have one body! And there's going to be a conflict of interest since SkyLark is inside InterVEST. Even if I leave the management to Sakura, she is still my wife. Our assets are conjugal."

"You can choose the greater of the two. You can own the game you love the most, Syaoran!"

"He will not do such a thing!" Yelan's voice boomed across the room which startled its occupants.

"Mo-mother!" Syaoran blinked as the Li matriarch strode briskly towards his bed. The stress of recent events had taken a toll at the woman as dark circles were evident around her eyes. Still, she held her head high and carried herself with composure that Syaoran could not help but to admire his mother's strength.

"Auntie," Eriol acknowledged the older woman and offered her a seat. Once seated, Yelan reached out for her son's hand and squeezed it tightly. In a tender voice, she spoke. "That is enough choosing for now."

"Mother?" Syaoran was not sure what his mother meant.

"You had been making very hard choices as of late," Yelan remarked. "It pains me to see my son battered—mentally and emotionally. That is enough." She paused as she reached out and touched her son's cheek. "Go where your heart leads you to. I have other children. This is the twentieth century. Who says only a son can be an heir?" Then, she smiled. It was probably the most heartfelt smile she was able to muster for quite some time. "Mei-Ling can take over the Li Enterprise. She knows the ropes more than you, anyway."

"Mother…"

"You can go back and concentrate with your SkyLark. It is your dream and it had achieved more than I can ever imagine," Yelan continued. "And you," she darted a sharp gaze at Eriol. "You will take over InterVEST. And no buts!" she said when the lawyer was about to protest. "I had already made up my mind. I will have nothing to do with that game. And I'm sure that you will not let my brother's legacy go down the drain." Then, in a calmer demeanor, she spoke softly to the lawyer. "Eriol, do you still think you are an outsider?"

Eriol could only look at her helplessly.

"You are like a son to my brother," Yelan pointed out. "We…Syaoran and I, treat you like family. Do not feel guilty of your inheritance! Do not give me false humility, either! It is obvious amongst us three, who will be the best to manage InterVEST. As much as Syaoran had worked hard with his SkyLark, you also worked hard in InterVEST."

Eriol bent his head. He was embarrassed that tears were starting to escape from his eyes and started dropping on his glasses. Yelan stood up and went over to Eriol's side. She made him face her with her hands on his shoulders. "This is your new life. You are free to do whatever you love to do. Don't tell me you don't love InterVEST? I will not force you if that online game doesn't mean anything to you."

The lawyer was speechless for a moment as he gazed from Syaoran to Yelan. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes. "InterVEST is everything to me," Eriol finally answered. It was coarse, yet clearly audible.

This earned a smile to both Yelan and Syaoran. "Then, there you have it!" The Li matriarch exclaimed. "Stop being stupid and make sure my brother's legacy continues!"

Eriol rubbed his eyes beneath his glasses. He was shaking his head when he spoke. "You two," referring to Yelan and Syaoran, "are really difficult to handle." He chuckled.

"That's why you can't help but to love us," Syaoran said with a laugh. Yelan joined in the laughter as she hugged Eriol tightly.

The air became bright and light while the three occupants of the room continued to laugh. Might it be from relief or sheer silliness, it doesn't matter. It was at that moment that the burdens each carried on their shoulders were finally lifted.

"You'd be able to fight him off," Syaoran remarked when their laughter died down.

"Hmmm?" Eriol turned towards him.

"Your older brother," Syaoran reminded him. "With InterVEST and your people behind your back, he won't be able to touch you that easily."

"Aren't you afraid that as my friends, you will get in the crossfire?"

Syaoran smirked, "Just who do you think you are talking to? Being a Li alone is quite striking. Add my extended SkyLark crew and an equally scary wife who could mobilize the military and navy…mafia or not, anyone would think twice before making a move."

"May I remind you that Tavenzouh almost killed you with a mere virus," the lawyer pointed out.

"A lapse. We had been lax. I, for one, had been distracted with my confused feelings. It won't happen again," Syaoran assured him. "If he dares come for any of us, we will fight him together."

"Remember your words, Li Syaoran." Eriol pointed an arm at Syaoran with a smile on his face.

"Remember your new family, Hiiragizawa Eriol." Syaoran did the same thing.

"And also remember that both of you needs to get married. I know we are still mourning for my brother's passing but this is his wish! Do not make him turn in his grave!" Yelan suddenly interjected. "You," she motioned at her own son. "Need to properly marry that girl. Do not rob me of a grand wedding I had always dreamt of organizing for a daughter-in-law!" she said much to Syaoran's surprise. Then to Eriol, she turned, "And you! You need to get married eventually! Hurry up before someone else snatches your damsel away!"

Syaoran was about to comment about her mother's mention of Sakura but ended up getting distracted with what Yelan said at the end. "You have a damsel?" he asked out loud.

"Err…," Eriol scratched his head at the question.

Yelan laughed heartily. It was indeed nice to be young, but it is also nice to be someone old that could get away with teasing the young.

"Is this someone I know?" Syaoran was grinning from ear to ear. It was not every day that the lawyer could be placed in the hot seat. Then, he gasped. "Don't tell me it's…"

"Enough!" Eriol cut in. "You," he pointed at Syaoran. "needs to rest. That is enough excitement for one day. And you," he turned to Yelan. "my dear auntie, also needs to rest. We shall now leave Syaoran in this room so that his beloved Agatha, who you approved of despite the odds of being a Kinomoto, can take care of him."

"You approve of her, Mother?"

The Li matriarch merely gave her son a 'look'. "May I remind you, Xiao-Lang on who was it who said to find Agatha in real life, woo her and marry her? Even back then, I know she suited you. If the feud didn't exist, she would have been a candidate as your bride in the first place."

"About the feud...," Syaoran started to say.

"The elders and I had already decided. If you wish for the feud to end, then we will comply." Yelan remarked.

"That easily?" Syaoran asked with doubt.

"Many things happened when you are not here," Yelan started to explain. "I had never seen such sincerity from anyone compared to that girl. And the elders saw it, too. It was enough to step back and rethink our take on the feud. Considering that the Kinomoto's are also being passive about it, then perhaps a reconciliation can be considered. But still, it will boil down to what the heir decides. So, hurry up and decide while you still have jurisdiction. Do it before we switch the heir to Mei-Ling in preparation in the taking over of the Li Enterprise."

"Let's end it," Syaoran hurriedly said.

With this, Yelan merely gave a knowing smile. "Very well. I will pass that to the elders." Then, she turned to Eriol once again. "Shall we go now and let Xiao-Lang rest?"

"Of course," Eriol smiled graciously. With a nod towards Syaoran, he left with the Li Matriarch.

At that moment and for the first time in his life, Syaoran finally felt at peace.

"I received an earful from mother when she found out that we got married behind everyone's back," Mei-Ling remarked as she sipped her cup of tea. "And another earful when I told her we are already divorced."

The storm had passed and the mornings after were pleasant. The news was still over the events, but it wasn't bad media. Many were touched. Many were inspired. More importantly, everyone was anticipating the Grand Wedding that shall finally unite the two warring families. The irony of it all because this could have happened years ago if only the two eldest children from both clans revealed their true relationship. Still, it could only be regarded as a passing of their youth, because unlike their younger siblings, neither of them had fought for it.

"Why? Does she want us to remain married?" Touya scoffed at the idea while he lazily laid back on his chair.

"Hardly," Mei-Ling replied while savoring the aroma of her jasmine tea. "It was somewhere along the line of—'You were young and stupid. How can you go in and out of marriage'-thingy." She laughed in recollection.

Both were having breakfast at a well-known café at the heart of the city. Seated at the garden area, the place was able to maintain its privacy with high fences covered with lush greenery. It was a sight for sore eyes despite the hustle and bustle of the streets outside. Many people from high society dined in this café that both knew they would not be disturbed as much compared to a regular restaurant. Still, many eyes were on them; polite compared if they were outside. But both could care any less. They could only look after all. As for Mei-Ling, she welcomed the sunshine and fresh air while glad for the first time that there was no need for them to hide.

"It has been a week since the Li family announced that you are taking over," Touya said as the waiter brought their food. "You must be very busy."

"Annoyed, you mean." Mei-Ling placed her cup down. "It is too much attention. I don't know how Xiao-Lang handled this during his time."

Touya was silent as he started eating. Only the sound of their utensils could be heard. Until Mei-Ling could not hold it any longer.

"Why did you ask to meet, Touya?

"Hmmm…," Touya mumbled. "I'm not sure if you were aware, but Clow Reed—may his soul rest in peace, had been very mischievous."

Mei-Ling could only look at him questioningly. The man in front of her reached for a long brown envelope inside his bag and laid it in front of Mei-Ling.

"What is this?" The eldest Li asked. But Touya merely gestured with his hand for the other to open it.

Mei-Ling did as suggested and quickly fished out the documents inside the envelope. Her eyes were like saucers the moment she realized what they were.

"This!" she exclaimed. "How can it be?! We filed this years ago!"

She held in her hands the divorce papers she and Touya filled-up and signed, but it was missing the final stamp of approval and filing dates.

"Seems like Clow Reed intervened and prevented it from getting processed," Touya said calmly.

"But…but….we received a notice!" Mei-Ling countered.

"I don't know how he managed it, but I am assuming he had internal connections. The notice was sent before the actual processing internally. Even Hiiragizawa didn't know how Reed did it. He claimed to have found out recently and advised the old man to fix it, but Reed didn't."

"No," Mei-Ling said weakly. Then, she leaned over to make sure only Touya could hear her. "Does this mean our marriage is still valid? After all this years?"

Touya only met her with a deadpan face and a simple nod.

"I married again, Touya! This cannot happen. How can it happen?" she hissed at him.

"My guess is that you were married abroad? Maybe that's the reason this conflict didn't appear in the records."

But Mei-Ling was starting to panic. "This would make the succeeding marriage null and void! And….and…you and I…"

"Are still married." Touya finished for her.

The woman gasped.

In contrast, the other man calmly ate despite Mei-Ling's glares. "Calm down," Touya said while he munched his bread.

"Calm down?" Mei-Ling could not believe what she was hearing. "Why are you very complacent about this? What are you planning?" She narrowed her eyes suspiciously at the man.

Without looking at her, Touya spoke. "Do you still want to file it?"

Mei-Ling blinked. The question caught her off-guard. It was outrageous to hear it from the Kinomoto's mouth after all these years, but it was equally outrageous that she could not give an instant answer. Shock ate her away as words caught inside her throat.

Does she still want to file it?

As the eldest Li has not yet answered his question, Touya raised his head and met his ex-wife's eyes. Correction. His wife's eyes since as per the law was concerned, they were still married. They continued to stare at each other unblinkingly.

"Don't do this, Touya." Mei-Ling finally said. Her tone almost pleaded.

"Why not?" Touya remarked, straightforwardly.

"We've already closed this book."

"Did we?" the man pointed out.

"Well, we were shouting at each other back then when we signed this."

"We are not shouting now," Touya persisted.

Mei-Ling clutched the papers in her hand hard that she almost crumpled it. "Do you still love me?" she asked.

Touya paused for a moment before answering. "Talking to you again after all this time had made me feel nostalgic. And after seeing our siblings pulled through despite every road blocks placed in front of them, makes me wonder if I gave up too easily back then." He looked at Mei-Ling intently. "It made me think a big what-if. What if I fought for what we have back then? How would things turn out?"

Mei-Ling laughed bitterly. "Then, what you are feeling right now is guilt. Think about it. That is different with love."

"Maybe," Touya replied. "But I wouldn't feel anything at all, if there isn't something left inside in the first place. What about you? Why can't you answer right away?" He scrutinized the woman in front of him. "You still haven't change. Your eyes are betraying you. You wouldn't waver at my question if it was really a closed book."

Mei-Ling was silent once again. She doesn't know how to reply. She was sure she loved her recent husband that passed away, but now being confronted by her first husband, she never felt so confused. Was the saying of not being able to forget your first love, true after all?

Touya did not wait for an answer. He merely reached out and took the documents from Mei-Ling's hands. He straightened it out as it had been crumpled by the woman and placed it neatly back in the envelope.

"Let's not make rash decisions for now," he told her.

"Touya…"

The Kinomoto shook his head. "Let's start over again. It had been ten years after all. We can't expect to be completely the same persons even if remnants of the past still lingered in our actions."

"I haven't really decided yet," Mei-Ling started to counter.

"You don't have to," Touya said in a very firm voice. "I'm deciding for you. You just go concentrate with your new role in the Li Enterprise. What we have right now, we will play by ear. I'm not going to force myself to you as I am also unsure about my heart either, but one thing I do know. There is still something there that had never completely left. Whether it will blossom again, we will just wait and see."

"And here I was thinking you might be attracted to a certain pretty friend of your sister's," Mei-Ling jokingly said, even though it was half-meant.

"I like dark-haired women," Touya scoffed lightly. "But seriously, there is a possibility that she reminded me of you when you were younger. Probably, explains why I tend to pick fights with her. I will properly apologize to her later."

"You're kinda twisted in a way, do you know that?" Mei-Ling crossed her arm in front of her.

"First love never dies." This time it came from Touya. Mei-Ling never said it out loud but apparently, the Kinomoto was also thinking about it.

"You can call me names if you want," Touya continued. "You can call me a coward. Confused. Twisted. Jerk. But I would also want to face the music without the restraints of the feud. So, this…," he shook the envelope in front of Mei-Ling. "…I will hold onto until both of us is sure."

"What about our families? What will we tell them?"

The Kinomoto smirked, "We had kept a secret this long. I don't see any problem why we can't do it again. After all your brother and my sister had gone through, I would like the spotlight to stay to them. This is their moment. If both of us is finally sure about our feelings, then our spotlight will come. That is, if you don't mind."

Mei-Ling inhaled deeply, and then found herself nodding her head. "Fine. Let's see what happens."

Touya nodded as well before placing the envelope back in his bag. "Well then," he smiled. "shall we order dessert?"

"Well, is this any good?" Sakura peered at her spectators while she slowly turned around. She was surrounded by full-length mirrors and excited-looking attendants as she stood and twirled in every angle.

"It looks beautiful on you, Sakura-chan!" Tomoyo clasped her hands lovingly.

"It does look promising," Yelan remarked as she tapped her fan on her chin. "But so does the other wedding dresses you had tried on."

"Hoeeee!"

It was ten in the morning, and Sakura together with Tomoyo and her mother-in-law, Yelan were busy deciding on which wedding gown Sakura should pick for her wedding. That day the store had closed its doors to other customers and reserved the entire place for the Kinomotos and Lis.

"This is such a dilemma, Sakura-chan." Tomoyo remarked. "Anything you try looks good on you!"

"But, I have to choose one!" Sakura said exasperatedly.

Yelan gazed at the two ladies in front of her. They continued to squabble on which dress would be appropriate. It gave her time to observe the Kinomoto princes. My son has good taste. Yelan could not help but to think. The girl was very pretty, bright, and smart. She could already foresee cute little grandchildren that she could not help but to get excited at the thought.

"If it comes down to it, you can always choose the most expensive one." A cheery voice interrupted them.

"Nana!" Sakura exclaimed.

"Hello Dear, it is nice seeing you again." Nana hurriedly went to hug Sakura. Then to Yelan, she nodded. "Mis'ess! I had never thought I will live the day to see all of you here like this." She grinned widely.

"And apparently, you are already greatly familiar with my dear daughter-in-law. I wonder for how long."

Nana chuckled. "We've met earlier. Way…way…way back type of 'earlier'." She winked with her bubbly attitude never leaving her.

"I am hurt. It is obvious where your loyalty lies," Yelan said with a grin but nevertheless, she still went to hug Nana tightly. "I am glad you are still by Xiao-Lang's side."

"I will never leave him!" Nana exclaimed. "By the way," she turned to Sakura. "I will repeat what I said the first time I met you." Sakura looked at her questioningly. "Make sure you give him at least two children," Nana started to say.

"Nana!" Syaoran voice suddenly boomed from the door.

"Oh Dear, the Master is here," Nana chuckled.

Syaoran strode towards the location of the ladies and immediately confronted his second mother. "Nana, why do you always say these things to Sakura?!"

"But I was right all along!" Nana defended herself. "I knew you were dating her!"

"No! I am not dating her back then!"

"But, you still married her online," the lovable woman pointed out. Then, she whispered to Yelan but loud enough for everyone to hear. "A victim of cupid's most lethal arrow. Craving that one thing that is forbidden to you."

Syaoran was speechless.

"She is no longer forbidden, though," Yelan said with a light smack of her fan on Syaoran's head. "And you are not supposed to see your bride wearing her dress before the wedding day!"

"Hoeeee! I forgot about that!" Sakura yelped as she tried to hide behind Tomoyo which earned a laugh from her best friend.

"It's fine, Sakura-chan. You haven't picked a dress yet." Tomoyo pointed out.

"Not yet?" Syaoran arched a brow upon hearing this.

"Everything looks good on her!" Hearts were practically flying from Tomoyo's eyes. "I wish I can make the dress for her but there isn't much time left. Must the wedding be held next month?"

"Yes," Syaoran insisted. "I cannot wait any longer. Who knows what might happen next. I'm not taking any chances."

"That is true. Do not wait to give Mis'ess Li her grandchildren!" Nana exclaimed with delight.

"Nana!" Syaoran barked, exasperatingly. "Enough about giving children already. Sakura and I need to settle many things first. For one, we need to enjoy being together properly and under the pretext of a real marriage." Then, he turned to Sakura. " So that is why, my Darling Kinomoto, I need to steal you for a bit. There is a place I would like to bring you to."

"Where are we going?" Sakura asked Syaoran as his driver drove towards the north side of the city.

"Guess," Syaoran replied as the car turned to a posh street.

Around them, mansions on large-cut lots filled their view. Most of them surrounded by tall gates with intricately hidden driveways.

"Oh! Don't tell me?" Sakura peered at the man beside her.

"Yup."

Finally, they drove up a long driveway with tall trees and neatly cut bushes. Security guards were stationed strategically around the property complete with K-9 units. Gardeners were busy tending to the vast gardens which surrounded the estate. Sakura's eyes were all over the blooming flowers of yellow and white until the main house came into view.

"Xiao-Lang!" She gaped at the sight of the modern designed mansion surrounded by tall glass windows and white marble walls. From afar it shimmered under the sun like a diamond.

"Welcome," Syaoran said with a chuckle. "It is your new home."

"Only mine?"

"Well technically, this is my house. So, it's not exactly my new home." He explained with a laugh.

"But I thought you live on top of that building!"

"Yes, that is also correct. That unit is convenient for me and since I was a bachelor, it's kinda lonely to live here alone and with servants." Then, they finally pulled up the drive to be greeted by Wei.

"Master and Mistress," Wei bowed to them.

"It's nice to see you again, Wei!" She practically jumped at the man with a big hug.

"Sorry, if I have to ask this from you, Wei. It's not your job but I need someone who can prepare this house for Sakura's arrival."

"It is always my pleasure, Master Li. Think none of it."

Syaoran nodded, then he turned to Sakura. "Shall we go?" He offered his arm which Sakura gladly took.

Once inside, Sakura was once again blown away with marble structures, stairs and glass windows adorned with white curtains accented with gold and silver embroidered designs. She would have dwelt more on the furnishing but Syaoran eased her away from them.

"You would have all the time you want later to explore, but I need you to see this first."

They continued to walk towards the right wing of the mansion. Wei, on the other hand, had excused himself to check on the lunch preparations.

"My grandfather gave me this land before he died," Syaoran started to share. "I was only 16 back then. There was no house yet. He gave me the liberty to build whatever I want on it. It was supposed to encourage me to marry immediately." He chuckled.

"Hoe?! But you didn't marry immediately."

"Nope. You can just imagine his frustration in his death bed," Syaoran smiled bitterly. "He was extremely precious to me. I don't want this land to go stagnant, so when I started my own company, I built this house in preparation for the future, but I did leave out some rooms. It is for my future wife to decide what to do with them." Syaoran grinned sheepishly at Sakura.

"And you are taking me to one of those rooms?"

"Yup. But this room, I've taken the liberty to design for you."

Syaoran opened the door and let Sakura to step in first. The lady was stunned once more at the sight that greeted her. There were no windows on the walls but instead, tall glass aquariums were embedded on all four corners of the room. Marine life swam within the aquariums harboring an ecosystem of its own. Light blue translucent light glowed inside the habitats.

And at the center of the room, not part of the glass walls, one lone rectangle aquarium stood apart. It was filled with various kind of goldfish, yet only one bubble eye goldfish swam with them. It looked exactly like the original goldfish Sakura fancied inside InterVEST.

"I heard the bowl broke when my plane disappeared in the radar," Syaoran was still grinning sheepishly.

"That is so cute!" Sakura ran towards the center aquarium but stopped midway when she spotted something sparkling inside it. She glanced from Syaoran, and then back to the aquarium.

Sitting at an elevated platform inside the aquarium was a diamond ring. Its band was made of white gold and the stone itself was shaped like a cherry-blossom flower. The ring was protected by a transparent case from the water, which still allowed for the ring to sparkle brightly against the light.

"Sorry, it took so long for me to get you a ring." Syaoran walked beside the stunned Sakura. "I hope it is not too late."

"Oh, Xiao-Lang…," Sakura gazed at him lovingly. "It's so beautiful."

Syaoran moved towards the aquarium and fished out the case. He wiped the water off and opened the case. "May I?"

Sakura nodded and allowed Syaoran to slip the sparkling ring on her finger. After doing so, Syaoran kissed her hand and held it near his chest. "Mrs. Sakura Li, I am so sorry for many things. I'm glad you still accepted me despite it all. I cannot wait for our proper wedding. But until then, please do not use Section 41 to divorce me." He chuckled.

Sakura giggled. Who would have thought that the abominable Li would have this side in him? "I will divorce you if you don't kiss me properly," she threatened.

"Now, we don't want that to happen," Syaoran grinned widely before pulling by the waist. He leaned as Sakura placed her arms around his neck and tiptoed to meet his lips. It was a sweet lingering kiss unlike the first one they shared at SkyLark's HQ. Perhaps it was because now there was no need to hide. There was no need to steal moments. No one to contradict them. No one to prevent them from being together.

No one to interrupt them.

Or so they thought.

"'Tis place iz zo byutful! Magnizent work, Mazter!"

"GEORGE!" Both Syaoran and Sakura exclaimed the moment they broke apart when they heard the comment.

The zombie-like butler was standing underneath the doorway with a huge smile on his face which revealed crooked white teeth against his pale gums.

"Zori to interap." His shoulders motioned up and down which indicated that he was laughing.

"I've always said you have impeccable timing, George." Sakura remarked teary-eyed.

But to this, the butler merely continued to grin.

"Welcome to our home, George." Syaoran said as he let go of Sakura and started to walk towards the zombie-like man to shake his hand. "You have my gratitude for slipping that Section 41 document for Sakura to sign," the Li said with a laugh.

"Hoeee! Where have you been, George? I was looking all over for you." Sakura pouted as she joined Syaoran in greeting her beloved butler.

"Tis is an honor to hav finali servd ze great hawses ov Kinomoto 'n Li. Vat, zer iz one ting levt for meh to zoo."

George revealed himself to be carrying a large tote bag. From inside, he pulled out a brown velvet box and handed it to Syaoran.

"What is this?"

"Ze ril memories ov ze too families," George answered with his smile never leaving his face.

(trans: "The real memories of the two families.")

….

..

.

UP NEXT: The Wedding and The Epilogue

Author's Note:

Hold your horses, there's still the wedding and the epilogue to be uploaded today as well. Sorry, I'm so sleepy and I still have work later. But I want Inc's anniversary day to start with a bang, so I uploaded this. :D