Disclaimer: I do not own Ouran High School Host Club it rightfully belongs to Bisco Hatori. I only claim ownership of Mayu Ishikawa (a.k.a. Bun Bun) and the Ishikawa Family. This story is inspired by Desire Climax and Kaichou-wa Maid-Sama.

Chapter 7 - Snow Gardens Beachhouse

The week progressed quickly for Mayu, she had earned quite a bit of money because of the bandage on her face but now she was able to remove it, she placed it on the bathroom counter of her apartment, she stared at her face. It was the same one she was accustomed to but she couldn't help but notice the very faint scarring on the side, others wouldn't be able to see it but she knew it was there. Mayu sighed, "I suppose it will heal on its own with time. I'll need to watch it closely." She returned to her bedroom, she packed a few things in her versatile market tote, she had her toothbrush, orange nightgown with robe, an extra shirt, undergarments, her money pouch, the over-size sleeping kimono, the tickets to Snow Gardens, and Belzeneff. She kissed the doll with affection while slipping her phone into her pocket then tugged on the tote as she put the doll away safely. She flipped the leather strap over, secured it in place, and headed to her den. She pulled on her tweed coat, rustic gloves and hat, and finally her scarf. Mayu opened up her door, shut it, and locked it; the Ishikawa Maiden took in a deep breath and let it out before turning around and smiling to herself. It was Saturday night, she was free, and it was time to meet Mori so that they could go to the beach house.

Boots exited the pedestrian gate, the clanging sound told her that it had shut behind her, and all she had to do was wait. It didn't take long until the limo pulled up, she rolled her eyes as the door was pushed open by Mori. He got out, let her in first, then he followed suit, he only smirked at her as she had told him that it was still too showy. The driver was the same as before, she said her greetings to him, he did the same to her, and off they went. Mayu glanced towards Mori and he handed her a box, she took it, looked at it, then looked at him. "A gift for you." Once more she looked at him but he said, "Open it." She did as she was told, the lid slipped off, and her eyes widened with awe at what was presented to her. It was a deep red bikini set, the bottom piece had a golden sun embroidered on the front just below the top hem, and it was accented with small golden bows on the sides of the bottom, and the top where the straps connected.

"Wow! It's so beautiful! Thank you!"

"You're welcome. Friends of mine made it."

"I love it!"

"I'm glad."

Mayu looked up at him, she smiled, "Tell your friends that I'll wear anything they design." He nodded while she asked, "But why a bathing suit?"

"We're going to a beach house."

"Oh...so it's not just a traditional bath house?"

"No. It's actually a hot spring with a bath house that's on the beach."

"Ah, I see!" Mori nodded while she replaced the lid on the bathing suit, she slipped it inside her market tote, leaned over, and hugged him. He rubbed her back, "Thank you Taka." He placed a light kiss on the top of her head. When she pulled away she stated, "It's a long drive."

"It's secluded on private land."

"So that's why people want to come to it. The seclusion allows for an ambience of serenity and peace." Mori nodded while he looked at her, "Don't worry. I have the tickets, I'm not about to lose a gift from a friend!" He chuckled while she watched the scenery pass by, entranced by everything that was going by on the road. "Everything reminds me of the estate out here, the big trees, the peace, and the open sky."

"Are you going to be alright?"

She looked over at him with a smile, "I'll be fine. I'm just reminiscing that's all. Besides come spring time I'll be able to see the estate once more. You're coming too right?" He nodded, "Good! I can hardly wait to see the looks on my family's faces when you're there with me." Mori smirked as she grinned at him and returned to watching the scenery pass by, he took this opportunity to text his friends who had created the bathing suit that she loved. The moment that they stopped, she pouted, and he only chuckled, the driver got out, opened the door for them, and the pair exited. Immediately she looped her arm around his and he patted her hand, she smiled, and they waved to the driver who told them that he would be there the following afternoon. "Thank you so much!" He nodded with a grin and disappeared while Mayu and Mori entered the building.

Neither were surprised by the decor, it was soothing, ancient, and beautiful; Mayu removed the tickets, and handed them to the hostess. She nodded, "Follow me to your room." They followed her to their designated room, it was a corner at the end of the hall. "This is your room, meals are delivered to you when you request it. The beach is only open during daylight hours, the gardens are open all the time, the hot spring is down the hall just on the opposite side and across from that the baths, there are robes for each of you in your room. Men on one side and women on the other but Saturday is when we open it up. Also, there is to be no wearing of bathing suits or any thing else that will cover your body. It is traditional here and we intend to keep it that way." Mayu had a hunch she knew what it meant to 'open it up' but didn't say anything as Mori didn't either, so they entered, Mayu put her stuff in the closet then removed the robes for them, Mayu looked at it but eyed Mori supsiciously.

"I think I know what she means but I'm not one-hundred percent sure." Mori nodded so they decided to head to the bathhouse, Mori entered the bathroom first so she decided to undress there. "I'll undress here, it will be quicker that way." Mori gave a muffled response so she pulled off her tweed coat, scarf, gloves, hat, and placed them in the closet; she made sure to cover her market tote. Then she removed her shirt, jeans, and undergarments. The robe was pulled over her body, the moment that the knot was tied, Mori exited with his clothes, she took them from him, and placed them next to hers. She pulled the closet shut and replied with a warm smile, "Shall we?"

"We shall." Mayu chuckled while Mori looped his arm around hers, they exited their room, closed the door, and headed down the hall. The closer they got, the more apprehensive she became but he calmed her down, "It's alright. It's just a hot spring."

"I know but I've never been to one before." He leaned over and kissed her head, she smiled, "Thank you Mori." The Morinozuka male kissed her head once more while they separated, she entered the women's, he entered the men's, and both removed their robes. Mayu placed hers on a spot that she had claimed as her own, then headed into it, there were older women there, and they greeted her warmly while the mid-thirties women paid her no heed. The older women reminded her of Sakura so she smiled at them, stepped into the spring, and took a generic spot. She leaned against a rock and sighed in contentment while an older woman made her way towards her. "Hello."

"Hello dear." Mayu smiled, "I can tell this is your first time and it's alright to be anxious. Every one is but it's alright."

"Thank you."

She nodded, "It's good that you came on Saturday, when they open it up, it's so beautiful."

"I've been told."

"Do you have someone with you?"

"Yes, he's on the other side."

"Ah! He protects you doesn't he?"

Mayu blinked, "How can you tell?"

The woman's eyes twinkled, "When you get to my old age, you've seen a lot in the world. I just know."

Mayu smiled, "Thank you."

"You're welcome dear." They were quiet for a bit until she said, "May Lady Amaterasu bless you on your path." Immediately the Ishikawa Maiden replied the same thing and the older woman smiled, "I'm glad Her ways are not lost." Mayu nodded, "You take care of yourself Light Maiden." She repeated the same to her, "Bless you child. You are the brightest maiden I have seen in years." Once more she thanked her and the older woman nodded while her daughter called out to her. "I must go but if you do have someone with you, then you should stay right there against that rock since it's most likely his first time too." Mayu nodded while she returned to her family, Mayu heard some rumbling sounds, and looked up. The ceiling rolled back to reveal the starry sky, her crimson irises were focused on that sky that she didn't realize the wall separating the two sections had disappeared as well.

Mayu could hear male voices, she glanced away from the sky to see Mori sitting there, staring at her. She felt bashful all of a sudden so she looked away from him, but she could still feel his dark eyes on her. When she turned her face to look at him once more, he was smiling, and she felt comfortable once more. So Mayu smiled back at him and waved, he did the same, then she pointed up, and when he did, he noticed the stars. Mayu's eyes turned towards the sky once more, she sighed, and leaned back against the rock to get a better view of the stars. "Horologium, Pavo, and Volans," she whispered, yet her eyes continued to wander around looking at all the different glittering orbs littered across the deep blue-black sky of the night. She smiled up at them, looked towards the moon, and held that smile as all she could see in that moon was the cat puppet. "Belzeneff, even now you watch over me. Thank you."

Once more she kept her back against the rock, she felt it was safe there, until she saw the men heading towards their women; clearly this was not their first time here. She felt anxious once more as Mori made his way over to her. He had made sure to not get up out of the water, he moved to lean against the rock with her, and looked up. She pointed out the three constellations that she knew and he nodded while she had said Belzeneff was protecting her even now; he nodded once more until the older woman's voice intruded upon their time. Mayu looked over at the older woman and waved to her while she was in awe of them.

"That's your friend?" Mayu nodded, "He's a handsome one! You need to keep him!"

Mayu laughed, "I have no intentions of letting him go!"

"Very good! You two are such a cute couple! Do stay together through thick and thin!"

"We shall," came Mori's reply. The older woman nodded and returned to speaking with her family while Mayu looked up at Mori who only smirked. She eyed him with a bit of supicion but it passed the moment he kissed her forehead. "I mean it," he whispered.

"I know, Taka." He smiled at her even more while they relaxed in the bath house, "I wonder if this is what Aran meant when he said Saturday night was the best night to go." Mori only shrugged while she chuckled, "It's really nice here. I can see why it's sold out in advance, this is the best spot to go for vacation; for locals and those from abroad. It's quite relaxing." He nodded once more while encircling his arm around her shoulders to bring her closer. Mayu chuckled and whispered, "At least the water isn't clear."

"True." She looked up at him and there was a devious glint in the Morinozuka male's eye, she swatted him playfully to which he let out a quiet chuckle. "I'm sure you wouldn't be disappointed in what you saw nor would I." He let his eyes roam down for a just a brief second before he caught Mayu's face turn pink, he leaned in, and whispered, "You're very cute when you blush."

"TAKA!" she exclaimed quietly while he only smirked and kissed her head. "You must be tired if you're being this flirtatious in the open."

"I am."

"Ah. We should go and get some sleep then."

"Yes we should but I'm not letting you out of this water with other men around." Mayu chuckled while she looked up at him and he looked down at her. "I'm serious."

"I know you are, Taka."

It had already been thirty minutes since they let the two sections mingle, Mayu watched as the men stood up with the women, she immediately looked away from them, and kept her eyes focused on the water. Mori kissed the top of her head, she smiled, and she had a hunch that he was keeping his eyes down as well. Once the others left the hot spring, she let out a breath, happy for them to be alone.

"I'm glad it's just the two of us again."

"Me too. What were you doing all night?"

"Getting some things arranged."

"Like what? Anything that I can help with?"

"No."

"I'm sorry."

"It's not your fault Snowbelle."

She smiled, leaned up while he leaned down and placed a kiss on his nose, "I know Taka but I want to help you if I can."

"I know and I want to help you but you won't let me."

"I can be a bit stubborn."

"So can I."

Mayu grinned while Mori returned it, "We're alike minded." He chuckled, "I wonder what else there is to do here other than the hot spring."

"Beach, bath, hot spring, and the gardens."

"Really? Gardens?"

"Yes."

"We should go see the gardens and the beach."

"Yes, we should. I'm eager to see you in that red bathing suit." Mayu chuckled while he added quietly, "Soon it will be carrying Shining Grove Tea as well."

Mayu chuckled, "Yes, one day."

"Perhaps many restaurants will carry your tea."

"Perhaps but I'd rather stick to restaurants that I know and love. Chateau Bunny, Blossom Cakes, and Snow Gardens Beachhouse are the only ones I'm content with right now. The rest of the list can wait." He nodded while he placed a kiss on her head, she sighed happily, but felt selfish because of her anxiety. "I'm glad we came." Mori nodded, "I'm sorry that we can't do more than this."

"I'm happy with this."

"Really?"

"Yes."

"Thank you Taka. You're very understanding." He kissed her head, she smiled, "Did you hear what my sister said at the park?" He nodded, "That was funny. They watch too much celebrity news and television, I told them once that they should listen to Gammy but they responded by saying they didn't want to act poor or be humble." Mayu sighed, "They're such little tyrants."

"Yes. But don't talk about them. They're not here."

"I know but they're always on my mind. It's hard to get rid of them even now."

"I know. Soon you can meet Satoshi."

"Your little brother?" Mori nodded and Mayu's eyes glittered, "I can hardly wait! I really want to meet him!" He chuckled, "I can already tell that he's far different than you because Chika's different than Honey." Takashi nodded once more, "It's been a while, should we get out?" He nodded once more and looked down at her, "I'm supposed to get out first?" Her only response was a shrug from him, she laughed, and replied, "Fine. I'll get out first. No peeking!" Mori covered his eyes with one hand, she stared at him for a bit, then moved to the edge of the hot spring. She stood up, the water dripped from her body, she carefully stepped onto the wooden planks, she sauntered into the changing area, but what she didn't know was that Takashi had separated his fingers just enough to get a look at her backside. The robe was pulled on, she tied the knot, and immediately felt arms encircle her, she froze but soon relaxed, "Taka!"

"Sorry."

"It's alright." He nuzzled her neck once more, she laughed, "I'm ticklish and I know you know this!" He rumbled low laughter while he continued to do it. After a few seconds he stopped, they left the area so that they could bathe, when they entered the bathing area, they noticed that it was sectioned off into separate rooms. "Interesting." Another worker approached them, directed them towards a room, and explained to them that it was a couple's retreat. When their door was shut and locked, she looked up at Takashi, "Now I see what this place really is." Takashi tilted his head, "It's a romantic get away."

"That explains everything."

Mayu nodded, "So we're supposed to bathe one another?" He nodded, "This is going to be interesting. I'll go put my towel on and you put yours on." He nodded once more while they turned their backs to each other. Mayu couldn't help the grin on her face, she removed her robe, wrapped the towel around her torso, and turned around to pick up her robe. The moment she turned, she caught a glimpse of Takashi's muscled backside, she immediately grabbed her robe, and turned around; her face was pink and her heart beat irregularly. She managed to calm it when Takashi asked her if she was ready, "Yes. I'll do you first." He nodded, took a seat on the stool, and she dumped the water on him, he kept his gaze on the ground while she scrubbed his back. Takashi realized that she was humming while she did it, he smirked, but the blush on his face never abated as he felt her hands through the thin wash cloth on his back.

The Ishikawa Maiden never said a word, only hummed that quiet tune that echoed off the walls, she used some soap, to clean his back before moving to his limbs. Although, he noted, that she was careful with his towel, never too close but always thorough with her cleaning. Then she put some soap on her hands and started his hair, Mayu finished so she dumped a bucket of water over Takashi, he looked at her over his shoulder with a smirk, "I'll be sure to return the favor." She tilted her head, "Your turn." Mayu took her placed while he moved behind her, "Remove your towel." Normally she would have been hesitant but she removed it however she kept it covering the front of her. Immediately she tensed up when Mori put his hands on her skin. "Relax." Mayu chuckled while she closed her eyes so that Mori could wash her, she noticed he was gentle and very careful.

When it came time for her hair, Mori washed it gently, and then dumped a bucket of water over her as she had done to him. Mayu laughed as her wet hair obscured her view, she looked at Mori over her shoulder, her hair was clumped together, and only one red eye was shining. Mori leaned over, kissed her head, and watched as she smiled. The Ishikawa Maiden used one free hand to part her hair, "Now what?" Takashi got up and headed for the bath water, she followed suit but readjusted her towel, they submerged themselves in it, and she was about to lean back but the Morinozuka male motioned for her to come towards him. She did, Mori gently moved her around so that her back was leaning against his chest,he wrapped his arms around her shoulders and underneath her chest. Mayu sighed happily, "Thank you Taka." He only nodded in response while they soaked in the warm water, after another thirty minutes, she said, "We should get out. I'm actually getting tired." He agreed with her, so she got out first, he followed suit, and they both turned their backs so that they could dry off. Mayu was much more quick than Mori, she put her robe on, tied it, and hung up her wet towels on the bar provided. When he was ready, they left, and sauntered down to their room.

Once inside, Mayu stated she was going to put her nightgown on and Mori nodded, she disappeared into a room, then returned wearing her orange nightgown and robe. Mori took his own pajamas to change, although all he returned in was a pair of boxers but he noticed that she tossed something at him. When he put it on, he smirked, "You brought it for me?" She nodded, "You're sweet Snowbelle." Mayu only shrugged as Mori made his way towards her, he cupped her face in his hands, looked into her ruby eyes, and kissed her forehead. She was smiling up at him until he scooped her in his arms and carried her into the bedroom. Laughter escaped her as he carried her into the bedroom, he leaned over so that she could remove the covers for them, then he laid her on the bed gently. Mori followed suit, he leaned his back against all the pillows and headboard, Mayu adjusted herself so that her back was against his chest. Mori grabbed the cover and fluffed it out so that it covered both of them, he pulled it up to her waist before encircling his arms around her once more.

"Everything is so traditional here except for the bed." Mori chuckled and nodded, "I don't mind. It's nice." He nodded once more while kissing her neck, she laughed, "TAKA!" Once more he emitted that low rumble of laughter. Mayu giggled and snuggled against him, "I'm sorry this is all we can do."

"I said before that it's okay Snowbelle."

"Are you sure?" He nodded, "I feel like I'm being selfish."

"You're not."

"Thank you Taka."

"You're welcome Snowbelle. You take as much time as you need and let me know when you're ready."

"Alright." He nodded, satisfied with her response and they cuddled up together, Mori had to readjust himself so that he wouldn't get a back ache in the morning, but Mayu was more than happy to snuggle up to him once he was flat on his back on the bed. He chuckled at her antics, her back was towards his chest once more, he wrapped one arm around her waist, and pulled her closer to him. She chuckled but put her arm over his and gave it a light squeeze, he returned the gesture on her waist. "Sleep well Taka."

"You too Snowbelle."

-::::::-

Morning approached the pair sleeping in bed, Mayu was still up before dawn, she was wearing the red bathing suit, it was a bit snug but she didn't mind, and made sure to wrap her robe around her for good measure so that she could surprise Takashi. She had phoned in for some breakfast, so when it arrived, she set it up for them, and thanked the person who had brought it. The moment that she had placed everything on the table, she heard the bedroom door open, she looked over her shoulder, and smiled. "Did you sleep well?" He shrugged while he sat down next to her, she clapped her hands together, and stated, "Lady Amaterasu may your glorious-"

She was cut off as Takashi took over, "Rays of light shine upon this day to make it beautiful. We ask that you give good health to Gammy and bring prosperity to Da's business. Thank you for placing such a wonderful maiden in my life. She truly is one of your shining rays of light." Mayu was in shock at his prayer to Lady Amaterasu, he smiled at her, leaned over, and placed a kiss on her head. "I learn quickly Snowbelle."

"Thank you Taka." He nodded and they ate in silence, when they finished, he noticed that she looked towards the window, when he asked about it, she turned to him with a smile, "It's going to be a great day." He nodded, "I thought we could go to the beach today and then the gardens before it was time to leave." Mori nodded and left to change into his swim trunks, when he returned, he noticed that she still wore her robe, and had two towels. "Let's go." He followed her out of the room, they traveled through the halls until they found the one that lead to the private beach, once out on the sand, Mayu looked around for a spot. When one was found, she laid out the towels, Mori took a seat on one, she on the other, and then she removed her robe. "What do you think?"

Mori had been staring at the ocean but turned his gaze onto Mayu, she was sitting on the towel with her legs crossed, and the red bathing suit. He stared at her as the color brought out her eyes, accented her white hair, and pale skin. It made her almost seem angelic in the morning light, red irises were watching him, waiting for an answer, and he smiled. "It suits you." Mayu returned the smile and they both laid on the sand for a bit before Mayu darted towards the water, Mori followed soon after, and they both dove head first into the water. She surfaced before him, her eyes looked around, until he popped up behind her, she giggled, and swam away from him. Mori ducked under the water once more, she glanced around for him while biting her lower lip, once more he appeared behind her. She giggled again and tried to get away but this time Mori grabbed her by the shoulders.

"Taka!" He nuzzled her neck, she laughed, he stopped his nuzzling as she asked quietly, "Are you still tired?" Mori nodded, "You need some good rest tonight. You don't have to come tomorrow morning, you need your rest."

"But I want to see you."

"I know but you also need rest otherwise you'll fall ill and won't be able to see me."

"True. I'll sleep better tonight. I promise."

"Was it because I was there?"

"No."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes." Mayu picked up his hand, kissed the palm of it, and Mori gave a small smile. "I'm still tired." She chuckled and responded that she didn't mind. "Good." He nuzzled her once more until she stated that she couldn't breathe, when he stopped, she started to catch her breath. Her red eyes roamed around, there weren't many people out at this hour, which was good because she didn't want to share this moment with any one.

"Will I get to meet your other friends?"

"Yes."

"I'm glad. I'd like to meet them." He nodded while they parted and simply swam around for a bit before exiting the water when more people joined the beach. The moment that she exited the water, there were whistles thrown her way, and she simply ignored them as Mori wrapped his arm around her shoulder. His dark eyes had spotted the men who threw the cat calls, he glared at them, they shivered, and turned away from them. "Thank you Taka. You're always protecting me."

He smiled and whispered, "Always Snowbelle." He kissed her head as they took their seats on the towels, her eyes watched the waves roll in and out, she could feel the sunbeams on her back, it felt as if Lady Amaterasu was patting her back, comforting her. She put one hand on her shoulder and gave a small smile, "What is it?"

"It feels like Lady Amaterasu is comforting me. Telling me that I'm doing alright."

"You are."

She turned to face him, "Do you think so?"

"I know so." Mayu leaned over, whispered a 'thank you' to him, and kissed his cheek. He smiled, "She's watching you. You are her chosen Maple Maiden." She nodded, "Nekozawa will visit you at the cafe again." She shrugged and said that she didn't mind, "He'll want that marshmallow coffee."

"I can make it again."

"What made you think it up?"

"I'm not sure, I just got so upset that he kept ordering lattes and I didn't want to waste all of them so I figured I would try to startle him a little bit with a devil poking his head out of the coffee. It seemed like a good idea at the time to get my point across." Mori nodded in agreement, "In hindsight that wasn't a good idea at all!" He laughed, it was that same low rumbling sound that she had come to enjoy, "And that laughter is only meant for me to hear." Mori nodded once more while they watched the waves roll in and out, after a time, they decided to head to the bathing area to get cleaned up, and change for the gardens.

Once finished with their baths, Mayu switched into her regular clothes as did Mori, both of them walked towards the gardens, when they entered, she balked on her feet. There were flowering plants every where with all types of foliage. There was a cobblestone path laid before them that wound around the small garden area. She smiled at the butterflies and birds that sang through the gardens, it was comforting, for a moment she felt as if she had been transported back to the estate. Mori rubbed her back, "I'm alright." He nodded and they walked the path slowly so that they could see everything, he knew that she was engraving every thing into her memory so that she wouldn't forget it but an idea struck her. She pulled out her phone and began to snap photographs of some of the things, Mori smiled at her, and did the same; although he was snapping photos of her taking photos.

Mayu was oblivious to Mori taking pictures of her, she was too focused on trying to get a particular butterfly but that same insect decided to land on her head, she looked up, huffed, and waited for it to move but it didn't. Takashi laughed, snapped a photo, and watched as the butterfly fluttered off only to land on her nose. He snapped another picture just before the insect fluttered away on a nearby flower, immediately Mayu took a picture, and was finally happy at having it. Her phone buzzed, she looked at it, and said, "Kairi says that she hopes we're having loads of fun for her."She looked over at Mori, he grinned at her, and she chuckled in return. "We're having a blast, I'll tell you all about it tomorrow." He nodded and they continued on their path of looking at the plants, butterflies, and listening to the birds sing.

They came to the end of the path, there was a tea house there, she smiled, they entered, the person there greeted them, and offered them some tea. They both agreed to it, when they were served, Mayu sipped it gently since it was hot, and smiled. It was comforting, simple green tea, she loved it, and it only fueled her desire to make Shining Grove Tea the biggest in the city. Yes, I will make it work. One way or another, I'll get it to work but what about Kairi? Hmmm...maybe there's a way for me to stay as a bunny...it would be nice. I like it there. She chuckled quietly to herself at the thought, once they finished their tea, they thanked the person, and left the area. Once inside the main house, they walked the hall to their room, gathered their items, and headed for the front desk. By now it was late afternoon and she wanted to get home to eat something. They checked out, said their goodbyes to the staff, and the moment they exited the main entrance, Mori and Mayu stared at Rosette and Colette with two men that she didn't recognize.

"What are you doing here?" asked Colette. Mayu kept silent while she only rolled her eyes, "Come on Rosette, let's leave this peasant, she's upsetting me."

"I agree Colette." When they were about to leave, one of the men looked at Mayu and asked who she was but she kept silent. "That's our sister the Maid."

"A maid?"

"Yeah, she works as a bunny."

The man seemed intrigued by her but Mori put himself between Mayu and the stranger, the male paled, "Let's get inside." Immediately they went on their way, Mayu thanked Mori once more and he only nodded as their limo pulled up. Once inside, she sighed, Mori rubbed her back, and assured her that everything was going to be fine.

"I know Taka."

"Good." She snuggled up to him while they drove back to her place, it was definitely going to be a lonesome night but she knew that she had Belzeneff with her for company which meant that Umehito and Reiko were always with her.

-::::::-

Mayu was dropped off, Mori said his farewells to her, she did the same, once he was out of sight, she entered her home. She stripped out of everything normally, then prepared some rosehip tea, there was a knock on her door, Mayu glanced at it, but quickly answered. Standing on her doorstep was someone familiar, "Kyoya?" She invited him inside, "What brings you out here?"

"Business. I decided to stop by to see you." He looked around her place, "It's cheery." She thanked him and offered him tea, "Yes, I'd like some." Kyoya looked around again and stated, "You need a dining table."

She laughed, "Taka said the same thing. Next week he said he's going to get me one even though I protested."

"Interesting." He jotted something down in his book, he was told to have a seat on the couch, he did, but adjusted himself so he could watch her brew the tea. She opened up a case, grabbed some tea leaves, then let them drift into the pot, she closed the lid, and turned to get some tea cookies. Everything was placed on a tray, she didn't even look inside the pot to see if it was ready, she simply brought everything to the den, and placed it on the coffee table. "Interesting taste in furniture."

"Reiko said that it suited me so I bought it." He nodded, she poured the tea for him, "Milk or sugar?" He shook his head, picked up a cookie, and looked at it. "It's a tea cookie. That reminds me, I have to visit Blossom Cakes San soon so I can see their new menu."

"What new menu?"

"They wanted to put in a section called Sweet Grove."

"A tribute to Shining Grove Tea?"

"Yes. I took care of them when they came to visit the estate and when I met Taka; he, Mitsukuni, and Reiko met at Blossom Cakes San. The owner was there and said he liked my service so much that they signed the contract for the Ishikawa Maple and wanted to pay a little homage to my tea business." Kyoya only nodded as he ate the cookie and sipped the tea, the tea made him pause, and she looked at him, "Is it not good?"

"No...it's nice."

"I'm glad. It's really the only thing I'm good at and that's because I've had practice. I studied a lot before attempting to grow my own tea." He nodded once more and they drank the tea in silence, once everything was finished, she took the dishes to the kitchen, she didn't realize that Kyoya had come up behind her. He pushed her into the counter, she didn't do or say anything, she simply froze as he reached up one hand to stroke her short hair. Mayu wasn't sure what it was but an instinct kicked in, she shoved him backwards with enough strength before whipping around, there was nothing in her hand as a weapon but she was sure she would find something. "You can't touch me like that."

"Why?"

"I'll tell Taka. Only Taka can touch me in that way." Once more Kyoya wrote something down in his book, closed it, and smiled at her. It wasn't calculating as with her mother in the park nor was it that condescending smile he gave to her sisters in the park either. It seemed warm in a way and she was perplexed by it. "What?"

"It's my secret. It's time for me to leave now Mayu." She walked him to the door, "I enjoyed our time together today perhaps I'll see you at work so it's not so suspicious any more." She nodded, thanked him for stopping by, he nodded to her, and left. She closed the door, still perplexed by his behaviour but when she turned around, there was a note on her coffee table. Mayu picked it up, opened it, and stared at the contents that was written there.

"Mayu, you might find it strange that I know where you live but I know a lot of things about you, I have that ability, and it's my job. You see Mori and I were part of something called a Host Club at Ouran High School, you probably have never heard of it but it doesn't matter. In time, we all grew apart, me most of all but when Mori met you and texted me for help; I was skeptical. He didn't give me any information about you except a first name. It's not easy to search for someone by a first name so I waited until I met you." Mayu took a breath and continued to read, "When I heard your name, I knew that you were the one who was proposed to me as a wife but I ignored the proposal. You and your family really have nothing to offer the Ootori Family but you have a lot to offer the Morinozuka Family, but specifically Mori. Your interactions with him are natural and I can tell that he cares for you a lot but since your mother ruined any chance at a life with him, I've decided to help in any way I can. Here's something to start with. I've had to hide it here since Mori tells me that you're stubborn with help and also put the Ootori Hospitals on your list of clients to carry Shining Grove Tea, that is if you can make a tea that helps with arthritis, gastrointestinal problems, and mucus in the lungs. Good luck and let me know the result." She looked inside the envelope that held the note and stared at the check there, she sighed, rubbed her face with the note, but a smile appeared. She took out her phone, found Kyoya's number, and texted him.

"I got your note and Taka's right, I'm a bit stubborn but I accept your challenge. Once I get my flowering plants in a few weeks I'll let you know what I come up with but I guarantee that you'll have something soon and also give me a better challenge next time. Thank you for the help Kyoya, I really appreciate it and thank you for considering to carry my tea. It means a lot to me, thank you once more. By the way, if you really consider Taka and the others your friends then keep in touch because if you don't, I'll be sure to text you every hour on the hour just to let you know that I'm your friend too." Mayu hit the send button and grinned as it said that it was sending a few text messages since it was too long for one. She shrugged then began to cook for herself for the evening but only after the check was safely put away in her market tote. "He has good friends." She nodded and began to cook, the Belzeneff doll was on the counter in the kitchen with her, she felt safe with the doll around, and decided to do something fun.

She put Belzeneff next to a pot that was simmering vegetables, she snapped a photo, and sent it to Reiko with a caption that stated Belzeneff was helping cook dinner. A few minutes later she received a response and she laughed, "That's adorable! I'm sending this to Umehito!" Mayu laughed again and replied, "Sure! I'll be sure to take more of the Belzeneff Cooks series!" The Ishikawa Maiden finished her dinner, took it to the den, ate it with the doll by her side, then prepared herself for the night time. She was excited to return to work to tell Kairi all about her weekend, she knew she was probably going to get teased but it was worth it to share it with her employer whom she considered a friend.

-::::::-

When Monday rolled around, Mayu was refreshed and ready to tackle the day, she was humming to herself as she strolled into Chateau Bunny, when she entered, Ren and Saki were waiting for her. "What happened?"

They were both shocked that she even knew something occurred so it was Saki that stated, "Kairi has a stomach flu. She's in the hospital and can't work the morning shift for a few days and there's no one to cover the morning shift with you. Two bunnies per shift, that's the rule but I'll text Thumper and Pippie to see if one of them can come in earlier."

Mayu nodded and smiled, "It's alright Saki, Ren. We can do this for a few days. I'll be alright. If I have to, I won't wear any shoes." They both chuckled as she stated, "Let's get this show on the road! At least I'll get to meet Pippie and Thumper for the first time." Once more they both laughed as they began to get ready for the morning shift, this time Mayu worked more quickly because she left her shoes off for the time being, once her Bun Bun face had been put on, she got to work moving some things around. For one she made sure to block off the other section with a hand made sign that read, "MISSING BUNNY: HAVE YOU SEEN HER? JACK RABBIT GOES BY THE NAME OF JACKIE! REWARD: FREE CAKE!" Mayu grinned at it and prepared her side with extra items to make it go by more smoothly, she even stocked the other side for the afternoon shift.

When Saki saw the sign, she laughed, took a photo, and decided to show Kairi later, Mayu added, "I want to see her too. I want to make sure she's okay."

"Sure Bun Bun. We'll all go." She nodded, once everything was prepared, she went ahead, and flipped the sign to open. She knew that Mori wouldn't show up because she had told him to get some rest, instead Kyoya was there, and she greeted him the same as any customer. She lead him to Mori's table, she said that's where he usually sat, and served him the coffee that he had requested. Kyoya took this opportunity to watch her interactions with the customers, it piqued his interest with her, when Aran Oshiro walked in, she bounded up to him, he could tell that she knew him outside of the establishment, and the Oshiro male grinned at her as she lead him to a seat.

"You make this place fun Bun Bun," he said.

"Merci maitre!" replied Mayu. When he asked for a black coffee with something inside, she nodded, left, and returned with a cup of coffee that had a cat marshmallow inside. He laughed at it and asked about a photograph, "Of the coffee oui, of me non." He nodded and waited for his fancy cheesecake to appear before taking a photograph and sending it off to his brother. Mayu worked through the first few hours calmly, she noticed that Kyoya always watched her, and when more people entered, she put on her sad face. "I'm sorry but Jackie's not in, she's missing right now but if you'd like to wait then I'll be happy to put you on a list." They agreed with a warm smile, the half of her face that was showing lit up as she wrote down their names on a list, "Merci maitre!"

The hours wore by slowly and they were always packed, yet she refused to sit any one on the opposite side of the cafe, Kyoya made a note in his black book about it. He also noted that she was very efficient at what she did, even stopping by to check on him a few times once there was a waiting line. Mayu had taken the initiative to remove the dishes that were unwanted from tables just so she could get them set up for the next patrons. Once the line dwindled down, she was ecstatic on the inside but it never changed her outer demeanor, and she placed down the last slice of blueberry cheesecake. The person was astonished at the design, they took a photograph, and thanked Mayu. "My pleasure maitre. Enjoy." They thanked her once more and she nodded while turning away to clean up the rest of the tables and restock for the afternoon shift. Kyoya asked for his check, she placed it on the table, and stated with a smile, "Pay whenever you are ready to leave maitre." He nodded, sipped his coffee once more, removed the money, placed it on the table, and got up to leave. Mayu bounded up to him on his way out, "Thank you for coming maitre, do visit again soon."

He looked at her and smiled, "I will."

She smiled in return while going to clean up the table, her mind already calculated the tip, she huffed, First the check and now this...are all of Taka's friends rich? Oh, silly question of course they are! They all went to Ouran High School. Mayu gave an imperceptible sigh, the table was cleared off, and a presence stood in the entryway of Chateau Bunny. Mayu turned to see a woman with smokey make up on with salt and pepper hair. Mayu bowed to her, "You must be Thumper. Pleased to meet you, I'm Bun Bun and thank you for coming in a littler earlier to help out."

"Ah, the morning bunny. Think nothing of it, I like to help when I can." She nodded while Thumper looked around, "It's pretty clean for just you." Her eyes landed on the other half of the cafe that was untouched, "You didn't use this side?"

"No. It was easier for me to keep every one here and put them on a list."

"Why would you do that?"

"It was the easiest way to keep track of every one. Besides it's not the first time that I've done it and Jackie said it was alright to do it again." Thumper nodded, looked at the sign she had written, and gave an involuntary chuckle. She placed it on Mayu's side of the cafe, "I'll need that for tomorrow!" Thumper chuckled once more while taking the next few patrons so Mayu could do her side work for Pippie. Once Mayu's side was cleared of all patrons, Thumper watched as she restocked every thing even down to resetting the tables for the afternoon shift. "That's everything Thumper. Will you be alright? I can stay a bit longer if you need me to."

"No it's alright Bun Bun. You did very well, you can go." She nodded and thanked her for her hard work and she laughed. "I haven't even begun! But thank you Bun Bun. You work hard too." Mayu smiled at her and disappeared to get changed, Saki and Ren were waiting for her in the dining area, their replacements had already arrived, and when Mayu reappeared; Thumper gasped. "So that's what you look like. Very cute." Mayu grinned at her, thanked her, and said that she would see her again, "Of course you will Mayu." Thumper winked at her and Mayu laughed while the three morning bunnies decided to visit their employer in the hospital.

As they arrived, Mayu, Ren, and Saki, each took a section of the bed, Kairi was grinning at them, "I'm alright! It's just a mild stomach flu, nothing that I can't get over in a few days."

Saki shook her head, "Kairi you were admitted because you couldn't even drink water! This is serious!"

"I know but I'm better now. I can eat soft foods."

Mayu chuckled, "I'll bring you some blueberry rosehip tea tomorrow. It'll help boost your immune system."

"Really? You're going to bring me some of your special tea?" Mayu nodded with a smile, "Well I feel special! Thank you so much Mayu."

"Any time Kairi. By the way, here are some photos of my weekend." She handed her phone over so that they could look at the gardens while she explained every thing else. "We had a blast, it was so much fun that I really want to go back but maybe later, when we've progressed further."

Kairi chuckled while Ren said with a grin, "When your relationship progresses, it's going to be a whole different experience!" Mayu laughed while Saki shook her head, the Ishikawa Maiden put her phone away, and it was then that Ren stated, "Mayu made a very funny sign for your side of the cafe and Thumper really likes her." Once more Mayu only grinned while Saki showed her the picture she had taken, Kairi was silent but then burst out laughing.

"I thought about using it again tomorrow or making a new one."

"Make a new one!" shouted the owner of Chateau Bunny. The four of them laughed while Mayu said that she would surprise her again tomorrow, "Good! I'm glad you stopped by for a job Mayu. Chateau Bunny hasn't been the same. How were the sales?"

Saki replied, "Through the roof for a Monday and that was because of the review. The patrons didn't even mind that they had to wait because they enjoyed watching her work." Mayu shrugged while the others laughed and the chef turned to the white haired woman, "It's true. The patrons used to be very rowdy with just Jackie and very demanding but when you showed up with your charisma and energy, every one seemed to calm down. It's as if they're in awe of you. I kind of wonder what it is."

"I think, on some level, they feel that I really am Lady Amaterasu. I'm as cheery as a rising sun and I shine like any beam of sunlight piercing through the canopy of trees. It's just that I know how to serve people and I know how to make them feel comfortable without being rude about it. It's just practice but also common courtesy. If you say everything with a smile then they can't take it as an insult and if you apologize with a very real look of sadness then they can't say that you're not sincere because you are being sincere. You just need to believe that you are sincere yourself and they will believe it as well but I guess it doesn't hurt to be a Floppy Frenchie either!" Once more the room erupted in laughter while she grinned, her phone buzzed, she looked at it, texted back quickly, and put it away once more.

"Do you need to leave?" asked Kairi.

"No, he was just asking if I was off work and then I told him that I was visiting you since you were in the hospital with a stomach flu." Immediately there was a knock on the door, a doctor entered, and said that Kairi was more than welcome to stay an extra day or two if she wanted, free of charge. Mayu looked at him and asked, "Why free of charge? I'm curious." The man smiled at her and said any friend of Mister Ootori was welcome to stay at the hospital free of charge but Kairi's stay had already been paid for but the next few days as well as medications were going to be free. "Thank you very much sir! Do tell Mister Ootori that I am very grateful for his generosity." The doctor nodded and left the room while the other three looked at her, "One of Taka's friends is an Ootori Son." They all nodded their head as if they understood and Mayu was glad that they didn't ask anything further than that. As the hours dwindled they said their farewells to Kairi, "Take care of yourself and I'll be back with that tea tomorrow after work!"

"You better! I'm looking forward to it!" Mayu gave her a thumbs up while she left with Ren and Saki who were asking about her tea. She was glad to tell them about her business, they patted her on the back, and told her that it was going to be the best tea in the country. Mayu was glad for the enthusiasm so she got to work that night on some tea for her employer and extra to show Kyoya's challenge some sort of progress.

-::::::-

The following day was the same as the previous one, Thumper showed up a little early to help out, Mayu had finished, and she thanked them for their hard work; and left with Saki and Ren in tow except this time Mori was with her. She was texting Kyoya that she would be at the hospital soon with some tea for him to try for his challenge. When they arrived, Mayu asked for some hot water, it was provided, and she dropped in a single bag of muslin that contained some rosehip and blueberry leaves, it was all she could find in her belongings to use as tea bags. "There are a few of these that I'm able to use so here's one for you. The others are for a challenge that I accepted," explained Mayu. Kairi laughed and asked about the sign, "Oh today I wrote JACK RABBIT HAS BURROWED. BE BACK SOON. Every one seemed to like it." Kairi chuckled just as Kyoya entered, the tea has finished steeping, and he watched as she poured it in a cup. The cup was handed over to Kairi, "This little tea bag will make about four cups of tea but don't add any thing to it. It'll be fine on its own then I'll make some ginger tea to help you after you're out of the hospital." Kairi blew on it a little then took a tentative sip, she swallowed, and nodded.

"It's very smooth, very blueberry but also that little tang of rosehip. I love it Mayu, thank you so much." She nodded, "I can already feel my stomach loosening, my muscles were so tense down there, that now I think I'll be able to sleep comfortably." Mayu thanked her and she replied, "No thank you Mayu. This means a lot to me."

"Any time Kairi. The ginger tea will help with digestion but that's later on." She removed the rest of the bags and handed them to Kyoya, "There are four bags here, each bag makes four cups. Use them as a test for an upset stomach, I'm sure it's going to be fine for them." Kyoya nodded, took the bags, and left the room while Mayu was pulled onto Mori's lap, she chuckled, and Mori poked his head from behind her body.

"Get well soon."

"Aww! Thank you!"

"Mori."

"Thank you Mori! You and Mayu are so cute together! I love it!" Ren and Saki agreed while a devious glint appeared in Kairi's eyes, "I can hardly wait for Halloween, it's going to be a grand event. Every year we always decorate the castle and what was this year's theme Ren?"

"Oh! It's going to be Naughty Angelic Bunnies." Mayu nodded, "I've got a special costume for you Mayu and I hope you don't mind that it's sort of like your regular maid costume but a little more seductive."

"Nah, it's fine. Remember that's for Bun Bun so whatever you feel suits her personality."

Ren laughed, "I love you Mayu! It's like you've been a bunny before!"

"No I just have experience with serving people. I bet Nekozawa's going to love the outfit. He is the Lord of Black Magic just as I am the Lady of the Sun Light."

Saki nodded, "Interesting that the two sides would be friends. I'm really enjoying this." Mayu nodded and Mori simply listened with interest while watching Kairi. She winked at him, he looked away briefly before returning his gaze onto the others in the room. "Also, we always have a special dinner for the transitional month of November."

Mayu nodded, "I'll be there."

"Me too." They looked at Mori and Kairi laughed and said that he was more than welcome to come since he was part of the Chateau Family. "Thank you. It's an honor." Kairi grinned at him while sipping her tea once more, she relished the taste of it, and Mayu smiled. Mori chimed in, "You should taste her Peach Smoothie Tea."

Ren's eyes widened while Saki replied, "Ren loves peaches."

Once more the Ishikawa Maiden smiled, "I'm pretty sure I can whip something up for you Ren."

"Really?"

"Yes."

Ren hugged her, "Thank you so much!" Mayu hugged her in return while the others chuckled and the white haired female stated that it should be ready in a few days. "Take your time!" There was collected laughter in the room while Kyoya was standing outside, he had listened to everything, and there was the slightest semblance of a smirk on his face as he left to test out the tea that she had brought him.