Secret Keeper (Syaoran and Tomoyo gen)

[storypaint]

Title: Secret Keeper
Fandom: Cardcaptor Sakura
Subject: Li Syaoran and Daidouji Tomoyo
Theme(s): 8. Secrets and lies
Disclaimer: Cardcaptor Sakura belongs to CLAMP.

Summary: Tomoyo muses on the fact that one of her most precious friendships is based on lies and secrets.

It's strange that one of my closest friendships is based on secrets and lies. An unhealthy relationship, a psychologist would say, but have I ever really had a proper one? My mother sees in me the ghost of a cousin she wanted as a lover, my father hasn't been around since I was three, and I am in love with my cousin and best friend (that, in itself, is worth a few hours of therapy).

I push all that away when I am with Li-kun, giving my advice and benevolent help. I have based our friendship on secrets and lies-- his secrets, my secrets, my lies. And yet it works.

I trust him.

I do not trust him with my most precious secret, but I will take my love for her with me to the grave. It does not need to be shared, which would multiply hurting, not lessen it. I will never hurt her.

He won't either, and perhaps that's why I trust him the most of everyone. For I am trusting him with my Sakura, and that is a trust akin to faith, pervasive and lasting.

I trust that he will keep her safe, and more than that, that he will keep her happy. I always knew this day would come, but I am glad that she has chosen well.

Go ahead, take her hand, Li-kun. You'll never know that you hold her for my sake as well as hers.