As time passed the days became cooler and the evenings became darker. Haruhi shivered as she, Hikaru and Karou walked through the school front gate. The wind was particularly icy today and she was thankful she had the boys' woolen blazer as a uniform rather the girls' dresses.

The twins were arguing behind her, bickering about some homework Hikaru had forgotten to do.

"You can't copy mine. The teachers already think we're one person. I don't want to be marked down for plagiarism," Karou argued.

Haruhi smiled to herself as the pair continued to squabble behind her. Karou had been acting out recently as if wanting to be seen as an individual rather than the exclusively pair they used to pose as.

"Who cares we will get the same marks anyway" Hikaru pleaded as he raised his arms above his head in a quick exaggerated shrug.

"No" Karou said sternly holding his ground.

Haruhi had become so attuned to the two boys that she wasn't at all concerned about their regular arguments. Karou, who generally displayed a more submissive character, was pushing Hikaru to look at situations that normally he would probably brush off or ignore. Haruhi hoped that Hikaru would eventually pick up on Kaoru's need for independence before they both ended up in another fight that would surely break the very foundations of Ouran High if things became too heated.

The icy wind had suddenly stopped striking at her back as she was enveloped into a hug from Hikaru. His closeness allowed his body heat to transfer to hers. It was moment of bliss.

"Haruhi" Hikaru whimpered in her ear. "Can I please borrow your homework?"

"Ha, the teachers would truly be confused if you managed to obtain full marks" Karou snickered from behind. Hikaru scowled at Karou in return.

"I'm not going to give you the answers Hikaru, but I am happy to help you through it. It is not due until third period right? We have plenty of time to finish it" Haruhi said.

Hikaru let her go folding his arms across his chest.

"It's not like I can't do it. I just didn't have time to do it" Hikaru said defensively.

"I know you can do it" Haruhi said turning to smile at him.

Yet as soon as he released her, his gift of warmth evaporated. The wind felt even colder and seemed to cut straight through her clothes and reach her skin causing her to involuntarily shiver more violently.

Something warm and cozy wrapped around her neck from behind.

"You need a scarf Haruhi, it is unseasonably cold today." Kyoya's rich voice filled the space around her.

The scarf was thin and black with a ribbed pattern. Groups of five horizontal lines in platinum grey were spaced at different intervals along the scarf. Turning to face him "What about you senpai?" Haruhi asked lifting her hands to return the scarf. Kyoya's hands snaked out and grasped her stopping her movements. He wore a matching pair of gloves, but instead of having horizontal lines two slightly thicker grey lines ran down the back of his hand and along his index and middle fingers making his fingers appear thin a delicate like the hand of a pianist.

The gloves felt as soft as a bunch of feathers against her skin and her body instantly felt warm. Karou raised a quizzical eyebrow at Kyoya.

"Haruhi your hands are freezing. You should get inside before you get sick" Kyoya ordered.

In Haruhi's opinion Kyoya let go of her hands far too soon and wrapped the scarf around her neck again blocking out the abysmal weather. For something so soft and thin it was amazingly effective. She could no longer feel the wind crawling against her skin.

The final bell rang having them all running inside to their respective classrooms. Haruhi used this time to snuggle into the scarf. Haruhi raised her shoulders up and dipped her head in comfort as the warmth from the scarf instantly caught the chill that had been scaling the length of her spine. She took a deep breath; it smelled clean like it had been just taken out of a drawer or a cupboard. The faintest trace of Kyoya's smell weaved itself into the fine cloth. She wasn't sure if it was his aftershave or shampoo but whatever it was extremely comforting. She was glad it was large enough to cover the grin on her face.

Upon reaching the classroom, the heating was high enough to warrant removing everyone's outer layer. Regretfully she removed Kyoya's scarf and her blazer and prepared for class.

During lunch Hikaru and Karou had gone to the cafeteria to buy their lunch as they did everyday. Haruhi remained in class eating her bento of leftovers from the night before with some of her classmates.

About halfway through her bento someone called

"Fujioka-kun you have a visitor…visitors actually" the boy that called her seemed nervous.

"Hi Haru-chan" Honey-senpai bounced into the room followed by the towering Mori-senpai. The classroom erupted into hushed whispers.

"Hi Honey-senpai, Mori-senpai" she greeted them individually.

"Where are Hikaru and Karou?" Mori-senpai asked searching the room for them.

"They are buying lunch. What is going on?" Haruhi asked growing concerned.

Honey-senpai grabbed her arm pulling her down into a crouch. His face pulled a super suspicious look as he covered his mouth to whisper in her ear.

"There is to be a secret meeting this afternoon in the club room"

"What about?" Haruhi asked curiously.

"We will find out today. Tama-chan is being very tight-lipped about it" Honey replied.

One of the warning bells sounded just as Hikaru and Karou entered the room.

"Oh hello Honey-senpai, Mori-senpai" they said in unison.

Honey jumped back from Haruhi back to his usual happy demeanor.

"Bring Hika and Kao-chan too" Honey waved as he and Mori back out of the room.

"What was that about?" Hikaru asked.

"Apparently there is a secret meeting this afternoon" Haruhi replied.

One of the girls from the class came up to them and boldly asked.

"Is the Host club organizing another event? If so, everyone from the class would be extremely interested to go"

"I honestly don't know." Haruhi replied truthfully.

"A meeting sounds too organized for Tono-sama. It must be Kyoya's doing" Karou said this last part watching Haruhi for a reaction. But Sensei had entered the classroom and everyone returned to his or her seats to resume class.

As classes finished for the day Haruhi, Hikaru and Karou made their way to Music Room 3. Chatting and joking as they usually do.

Haruhi reached the door handle first and opened the doors wide. The room was completely bear expect in the middle of the room a large blank white board with five chairs placed in front of it. Honey-senpai and Mori-senpai were already seated in two of the chairs.

"Where's Tamaki and Kyoya? And there aren't enough chairs" Karou asked.

"We haven't seen either of them." Mori-senpai said solemnly as he returned his head in the direction of the whiteboard.

The light suddenly dimmed and a spotlight highlighted the whiteboard and a spot adjacent to the board.

"Now that you all have arrived, we can begin" Tamaki's voice filled the room like he was speaking into a microphone. All the club members looked around in confusion.

"What's going on Tono?" Hikaru asked annoyed.

Tamaki stepped out from behind the whiteboard dressed as a military general; a large metal pointer in hand.

"Lady and gentlemen, we are here as Kyoya's date of birth will be commencing next week and we as a club must rally together to give him the greatest celebration he has ever experienced!" Tamaki's voice was directly stern as he paced back and forth in front of the whiteboard. The long metal pointer was flicking side-to-side attempting to emphasize his point.

"Kyoya works tirelessly to facilitate our every whim and need for this club and deserves to be rewarded." Tamaki holted to one side of the board; paused for effect and flipped it over revealing his plan.

They were all silent staring at the board. It looked like a toddler had drawn random pictures all over the place. Arrows were pointing to various clumps of writing also deposited randomly over the board. A huge smile highlighted Tamaki's face.

"What is that?" Karou asked disbelief plastered on his face.

"I think those pictures are suppose to be us…"Hikaru said squinting at the writing attempting to decipher the cryptic message.

"So next Saturday we get Kyoya up early…" Tamaki began pointing at a bubble of writing in the upper right hand corner.

"NO!" all the boys seated called together. Haruhi's eyebrows shot up in surprise and looked to Karou for an explanation.

"Kyoya getting up early is as bad if not worse than waking a certain someone else from their nap" Karou's whispered toward Haruhi as his eyes darting in Honey-senpai' direction. Haruhi received the message loud and clear and swallowed nervously at the thought.

Tamaki's eyes swan with tears as he squatted down into the fetal position.

Haruhi stood to read the writing more closely.

"I don't know if senpai would like to do any of these things." Haruhi said truthfully.

Tears began to stream down Tamaki's face.

"Don't get me wrong this is very thoughtful" Haruhi waved her hands distressed that she had upset Tamaki further.

"Why don't we ask Kyoya wants he wants to do?" Haruhi said.

"You think that would be the smartest thing to do" Everyone spun to see Kyoya standing in the doorway.

Tamaki jumped up using his body as a shield in attempts to hide his birthday suggestions.

"Kyoya? What are you doing here? You know we don't have any club activities today" Tamaki spluttered.

"And yet here you all are?" Kyoya questioned, using a very pointed index finger to push his glasses up the bridge of his nose.

A shiver ran down everyone's spine, Haruhi felt like she was a child about to be scolded by a parent.

Kyoya sighed "There is a rumour going around the school regarding a secret party the Host Club is organizing …and there is photographic evidence." Kyoya held up his phone showing a picture of Honey-senpai whispering into Haruhi's ear earlier that day. Kyoya briefly flicked his gaze over to her, his eyes accusing as if she had some part to play in this scheme and she couldn't help but gulp in fear.

"I know you have good intentions Tamaki and I thank you the thought." Kyoya said.

Tamaki beamed "Kyoya."

"However" Kyoya cut him off. "My family has organized a small party for family and our most respected clients" his voice returning to his usual professional tone. "I can extend the guest list to include you all, however, it is essentially a fancy business meeting"

"Count us out!" the twins said simultaneously hands folding behind their heads.

"But I would like to spend time with you all too. I was thinking along the lines of a dinner. Our company has bought a chain of restaurants that have yet to be tested. We can be the first guests" Kyoya said sliding his ledger out of thin air and began writing something.

"Why don't I cook you dinner?" Haruhi interjected. Kyoya looked over to her, her eyes smiling. I would love to have you all to myself for just one evening.

"I would not want to trouble you with that kind of task." Kyoya said casually. Having to cook on a daily basis for herself and her father must be exhausting yet alone providing food for all of them.

"It would be no trouble. I have cooked for us before. Then you could actually enjoy the meal without having to critique every detail like the restaurant décor, the menu, the staff etc. You could just relax." Haruhi said warming to the idea.

Kyoya felt heat rise up his neck; she was so adorable and loved the fact that she wanted to prepare a meal for him.

"At Haruhi's house?" Tamaki sprang up cuddling Haruhi.

"NO" Kyoya answered too quickly. Recovering he continued "Why don't we book a place and stay the night. Have a weekend away"

"Yes! You pick the place then Kyoya. Since it's your birthday" Tamaki said happily. Kyoya thought if Tamaki were a dog he would see his tail wagging rapidly. He knew that his friend wanted to do something nice for him but the fact he had yet to relinquish his hold of Haruhi was making his blood boil.

Haruhi pushed Tamaki hands off her.

"Kyoya organizes everything I think we could at least take the reins on the one." Haruhi said appearing annoyed.

Honey-senpai piped up "My family owns a penthouse apartment in Ginza. We could overlook the pretty lights of the city and is easy enough for everyone to get there."

Haruhi turned to look at Kyoya to confirm this was acceptable for him. Staying in Tokyo would probably be the most convenient option as they had exams coming up and did not have the luxury of time to waste travelling somewhere further away. Not to mention that Haruhi still did not own a valid passport.

"Great idea" Kyoya said never looking away from Haruhi's eyes.

Tamaki was excited all week about the party. He decided we should have a commoner's themed birthday party.

"Can we play games?" Tamaki he begged.

"Please no " Kyoya said.

Tamaki had also continuously been sending Haruhi ideas for traditional western style birthday cakes. After sending her photo's of the famous green princess cake from Sweden she had stopped returning his texts.

She wanted everything to be perfect for Kyoya just as he made everything perfect for the club.

Days before the intended event, Haruhi was still debating with herself over what to cook for the evening. She had a number of ideas but incessantly questioned if it was too common, too spicy, too sweet or more importantly too complicated to reproduce correctly. She had no idea what Kyoya's favourite foods were nor did she get much help when she asked the group about Kyoya's preferences. Tamaki had simply demanded an array of foods 'commoners' ate at a birthday party.

The twins suggested a western roast with plates of meat, glazed with sticky sauces, mashed potatoes drizzled in creamy butter and steamed greens seasoned with herbs and spices.

Honey-senpai kindly gave me her, a list of desserts he favoured, offering to sample anything she chose to make.

Putting all the advice aside she decided to do what everyone was avoiding to-do and called Kyoya directly.

After the first ring Kyoya picked up the phone. "Hello Haruhi" he greeted.

"Hi senpai I'm sorry to bother you. I hope I haven't caught you at a bad time." Haruhi said.

"Not at all. What's going on?" Kyoya asked briskly. She had not been interrupting anything at all, in fact, he was just daydreaming about her and procrastinating from finishing his homework.

"I was wondering what you favourite food was? Or if there was something in particular you would like to eat for your birthday" Haruhi asked timidly.

He paused thinking seriously.

"I love anything spicy. I would like something traditional and simple...what you would have with your own family" Kyoya tried to explain becoming embarrassed by what he was trying to ask Haruhi to do.

His family had organized the best food to be prepared for his 'birthday party'. World-class chefs had been flown in from Europe especially, to serve the most exclusive foods of the season. The cuisine had been exceptional as always but he had no idea what half of it was and had stopped taking notice half way through the evening.

Haruhi's heart melted to how Kyoya's voice seemed to dip down at the end. She knew how cold his family was to each other and the fact they had again found another way to use this event as a source for business was disgusting.

"Done. What about dessert? Would you like a cake? To be honest I am not overly confident with my baking skills. We can order some desserts…" Haruhi said honestly.

"I've tasted your cooking Haruhi I highly doubt you could make something terrible." Kyoya said.

She bushed at his compliment thankful he could not see her over the phone.

Before she could speak he continued.

"We may as well give something Tamaki wants. Make one of those western style birthday cakes he wants so badly. Hopefully that will be enough of a distraction for him." Kyoya said bitterly yet she knew was in jest.

"I will pick the least extreme cake for your sake," she joked along.

"I was speaking to Fuyumi yesterday. My powers of persuasion do not seem to work on her and insisted she join our dinner party. Is it all right to add her and her husband to the guest list? They will only be staying for dinner." Kyoya asked sounding apologetic.

"Of course. I would love to meet her again. We barely had time to speak at the charity event" Haruhi said unsure if bringing up that particular party would be awkward.

"She said the same thing and is determined to get to know you better" Kyoya seemed not to notice her mention the party or probably did not care.

They both were silent after that. Neither one knew what to say next yet neither ready to end the conversation.

"Haruhi. I'm home" Haruhi's father called in the background.

"Coming! I'm sorry Kyoya-senpai I have to go. I'll see you tomorrow?"

"Yes. See you tomorrow" Kyoya said and hung up.

Walking across the room he caught his reflection in one of the windows. He was a bit surprised what he saw. His features were unchanged, his eyes, eyelashes, eyebrows and hair were still shaded a deep onyx. But the face that stared back at him was filled with a huge smile making his face appear brighter and his eyes sparkle with a secret pleasure.

Haruhi decided to make Tan Tan Men (Ramen). Although not traditionally Japanese she decided this would be the easiest dish to make in a large quantity and she could add plenty of Rayu (chili oil) for Kyoya. She borrowed two gigantic pots from her neighbours to make the pork, shrimp and chili broth and in the end made enough stock to feed the Japanese army.

Once the stock was prepared she could easily assemble individual bowls at the house. Quick, hearty and delicious but most of all, spicy! Haruhi bought some extra chili oil to place on the table for anyone who was adventurous enough to add even more spice to their bowls.

Hikaru and Karou came to pick her up and help gather all the food supplies for the party.

"My god Haruhi how much food did you make?" Hikaru puffed down the stairs as he struggled to keep ahold onto one of the stockpots.

"I need it to feed a lot of people." Haruhi said smiling. She was thankful the twins were over so often that her neighbours had finally stopped coming out to look at the 'luxurious' car they picked her up in.

Arriving at their destination, two footmen hurried out and started unpacking the produce.

"Wait" Haruhi started to protest their actions but Karou took her arm.

"Don't worry they will bring it up to the apartment." Karou led her into the marbled building and toward the elevator.

"Excuse me, at you with the Haninozuka party?" the concierge asked.

"Yes we were" Hikaru said one hand in his pocket.

"This way please. The penthouse has it's own private elevator" The man said bowing then leading us to a different set of lifts.

Apartments can have their own private elevator? Haruhi shook her head in disbelief.

Arriving at the top floor, the doors revealed an apartment the size of a house. The apartment consisted of two entire floors of the building.

Haruhi had never seen anything like it before. The apartment revealed an open living room with tawny wooden flooring. The centre had a rose gold shaggy carpet topped with an oiled table made of driftwood surrounded on three sides by tanned leather couches. Haruhi momentarily stopped as she took in the entire left side of the apartment; large glass windows that rose from the floor to the ceiling over looked the city below. The different colour signs and distant skyscrapers looked very beautiful from high above.

Towards the back on the right side of the room was a spiral staircase hidden by thin wooden slats that extended up to the next floor. The stairs curled tightly upwards like a small tornado opening the ceiling leading to the upper level of the apartment. To the left behind the couches was a hallway leading to a closed bedroom door made of dark mahogany. Closer to her right was a white wall with Japanese style long sliding wooden door and directly above this door was a glass balcony revealing more bedrooms upstairs.

"Welcome. Come put everything in the kitchen" Honey came out to see them.

Haruhi quickly walked through the sliding door to her right.

The living room was a blur of colours as the ceiling had been covered in balloons of different shapes and sizes.

As she walked into the kitchen her mouth dropped out. It was enormous. The rectangular room had a long island bench running down the centre with dark paneled cupboards lined up on either side contrasting boldly with the pure white marble table tops and finishing with glistening silver appliances including both sinks, the fridge, coffee machine right down to the shiny rice cooker that gleamed above the oven door. It was beautifully set up and Haruhi felt immediately intimidated by its grandeur and wasn't sure if she would be able to use any of the appliances.

A few men followed in behind them with all the food supplies and she watched them place the giant pots onto the gas stovetop that looked like it had never been used.

Once the service men had left Tamaki and Kyoya entered the kitchen.

"This is going to be the greatest birthday party ever" Tamaki danced excitedly grabbing Kyoya around the shoulders and pulling close into his side.

"That remains to be seen but I am glad everyone is here." Kyoya said cringing playfully at Tamaki's touch.

"So Tamaki what games do you have planned for us?" Hikaru asked an evil grin stretching across his face.

Kyoya eyes widened in alarm. Haruhi giggled at his expression.

"I have set everything up in the living room before dinner" Tamaki led everyone to the living room.

For a couple of hours they played pin the tail of the donkey and as they were failing to play celebrity heads the elevators bell rang signaling someone's arrival.

"That must be Fuyumi and her husband" Kyoya said standing to go greet her.

A slender woman bounced into the room followed by a more composed Kyoya. Fuyumi was dressed casually in tight skinny jeans and a fitted silk olive shirt rolled up at her elbows. She wore her hair loosely down in a ponytail with the long ends pulled over her right shoulder.

"Sorry I am late everyone, but my husband was working and won't be able to make it. But I thought I'd bring some appetizers to make up for it" Fuyumi remarked holding a tray of sushi. Everyone stood up to greet her. Haruhi grabbed the tray of sushi to place on a table for everyone to nibble as Fuyumi hugged Tamaki.

After placing the tray down she turned to see Fuyumi had followed her and was standing right behind her.

"Haruhi it is so lovely to see you again" Fuyumi said warmly.

"Yes it is lovely to see you…." Haruhi stopped as Fuyumi engulfed her in a tight hug. Haruhi was surprised at her affectionate nature compared to her brother. After a moment she smile and returned the hug, noticing Kyoya watching their every move.

"Come we will start the next game" Tamaki waved everyone back to the floor. Kyoya let out a long groan of protest.

40 minutes later Hikaru was still arguing about the rules with Tamaki.

"I better get dinner started" Haruhi stood and rushed away toward the kitchen.

After Haruhi found all the equipment she needed she turned on the gas to warm up the stock. She then set a pot a water to boil to cook the noodles and had all the toppings assembled out on the island bench. It was only then that she admitted to herself I might have made a little too much food.

Fuyumi came in as she placed the noodles into the boiling water.

"Can I help you?" Fuyumi suggested. "That way we can chat as we work"

"Ok" Haruhi responded turning to stir the noodles making sure they were not sticking together.

Turning back a moment later the kitchen was covered with pots and pans and every cupboard door was open. How had Fuyumi managed to pull everything out of the cupboards?

"Fuyumi-san…ah Ootori-san ah" Haruhi was flustered unsure what her married name was. "We don't need that many things. I have everything we need." Wavering her hands as if that were going to stop her pulling things off the shelves.

"Oh" Fuyumi pouted. Haruhi shook her head slightly at the open difference between Kyoya and his sister's personality. Haruhi wondered what his elder brother's were like and was tempted to ask Fuyumi but decided against it.

Placing most of the extra things off to the side, as Haruhi didn't now where they originally belonged, she started placing the noodles into individual bowls while Fuyumi chatted to her happily.

Kyoya stalked into the kitchen, his face dark with anger.

"Kyoya what's wrong?" Fuyumi asked shocked.

"That game… "Kyoya stopped so angry by the situation. Haruhi couldn't quite understand as she could her everyone else laughing.

"Oh come on it can't be that bad." Fuyumi replied.

"Go see for yourself" Kyoya said in a deep tone.

"I'm helping Haru…"

"I will be fine I'm almost done. Can you get everyone sitting at the table please" Haruhi interrupted. She didn't want to be rude but she preferred if she didn't have Fuyumi's 'assistance'. As Fuyumi walked out, Kyoya let out a sigh of relief.

"I bet Tamaki is having the time of his life" Haruhi said.

Kyoya glared at her.

"Did you know there would be games?" Kyoya accused her.

"Maybe..."Haruhi laughed.

Upon hearing the sound Kyoya relaxed, only to realize they were alone in the kitchen. Kyoya watched Haruhi work, ladling spoons of amber coloured broth in each dish. She had picked handmade wide-rimed Arabake noodle bowls. They were a perfect round shape and were deep enough for a decent portion size. They were hand painted black but on the inside of the bowl was a single white brush stroke circling the bottom of the bowl. As Haruhi filled the bowls with the mouth-watering steaming liquid she carefully decorated each with the regular small square sheets of nori, a halved soft boiled egg, spicy pork mince and finished each with sprinkled chopped shallots, sesame seeds and finely sliced chili. He chuckled, like there wasn't enough chili his eyes were watering from the spiciness emitting from the broth yet was also making him salivate.

Each bowl looked like a work of art and the kitchen smelt absolutely delicious.

"Haruhi" he spoke softly.

Haruhi jerked in surprise she was so focused on perfecting the meal she completely forgot he was there.

"Thank you this looks…amazing and smells absolutely delicious" Kyoya said yet he now wasn't convinced it was the food that was making his mouth water.

She smiled. "Before I forget I need to give you something" Haruhi bent down to fish out a small bag.

"Haruhi please you did not have to get me a gift this was more than enough" Kyoya said.

Haruhi shock her head "This is your scarf you lent me last week. I did not have time to return it to you. Thank you for lending it me" she passed the bag over.

He had honestly forgotten he had given it to her and had a quick peek inside to see his scarf cleaned and pressed at the bottom of the bag.

"Your welcome" Kyoya smiled.

"Haruhi, WE ARE STARVING!" the twins yelled from the dining room.

This interruption jolted them both back to reality.

"Let me help you serve" Kyoya said picking up two bowls and heading to the dining room.

After everyone praised the meal and took a few photos people started eating. A few started coughing at the spiciness of the meal.

"Wow that packs a punch" Fuyumi coughed again.

"I'm sorry I made it extra spicy for Kyoya" Haruhi looked dismayed.

"It's perfect" Kyoya cut through everyone talking and looked at her and all her distress fell away.

There was nothing left, the boys had practically licked the pots clean. She could not fathom how Honey had managed to put away three bowls of Ramen. Where did it go in that small body of his?

"It's time for the cake!" Tamaki screeched excitedly. Tamaki had come over to her home the day before to help Haruhi decorate the cake.

"YAY!" Honey-senpai yelled in response. Mori-senpai just looked at him in disbelief as well, slumped in his chair a hand on his full stomach.

After a few minutes the lights turned out and Tamaki started singing happy birthday. Haruhi almost choked, it looked like the cake was a ball of fire. Tamaki had stuffed candles all over the cake, there to be at least 30 on top of the cake alone. Haruhi covered her face with her hands so she didn't have to keep looking at that monstrosity.

Kyoya's face betrayed nothing as he obediently blew out the candles and prepared to cut the cake. Haruhi had chosen a sponge cake. Something simple as Kyoya was not the biggest fan of sweets.

She and Tamaki had decided on the new style of frosting, coating the cake with bright white vanilla icing with a chocolate top that dripped a little down the sides. The top was boarded with sliced strawberries and a now unrecognizable message that said "Happy Birthday" that Tamaki had shakily frosted in the middle of the cake himself.

After finishing the cake (thanks to the help of Honey-senpai) Kyoya spoke to everyone at the table "Thank you all so much for the evening. "

He turned to look at everyone individually everyone was smiling toward him. He was truly a lucky man to have so many friends. He stopped as he reached Haruhi and tried to emphasize all his gratitude in his next statement "This has meant so much to me. It truly was the best birthday"

"Happy Birthday little brother" Fuyumi raised her glass. And everyone followed suit in toasting Kyoya.

"Now for presents!" Tamaki exclaimed.

But everyone was so full of food they were exhausted.

"Maybe we should saved that for tomorrow" Kyoya said calmly. He had enough of Tamaki never ending schedule.

"Why don't we watch a movie?" Karou suggested his eyes half closed.

"I might head home and see what my husband is up too" Fuyumi stood from the table to drape herself over Kyoya. She whispered something in his ear and his face flashed with momentary shock then returned to normal as she left the apartment.

Hikaru yawned, "So which room is ours?" he asked Honey senpai.

"Oh yeah" Honey trailed off

"Mitsukuni did you not tell them?" Mori-senpai said in a warning tone.

"Hehe no" Honey ducked his head but showed no shame.

"There are only three rooms in the penthouse…and another two in the apartment below. So someone will have to share." Honey-senpai admitted.

"Well Hikaru and I can share in that room." Karou announced easily pointing to a bedroom upstairs.

Tension filled the room. All the boys were looking from one to the other with silent understanding as an unspoken language passed between them. But mostly their gaze fell onto Kyoya and Tamaki, waiting for their reactions. The same thought seemed to have crossed their minds, who would get to share a room with Haruhi? Kyoya eyes fixed with Tamaki, neither said anything but waited for the other to act first.

"I can ask for a bed to be placed in the living room." Mori-senpai said. He lifted his mobile to his ear speaking to one of the staff.

"I can stay in the living room I don't mind" Haruhi volunteered, lifting up her hand like she was in class.

"NO" all the boys said in unison. Haruhi quickly dropped back to her side as she grimaced.

Tamaki eyes showed only kindness toward Kyoya as he closed his eyes and turned his head away to face the group "I'll stay in the living room. Kyoya deserves to have a room to himself" Tamaki said self-sacrificing.

"I think Haruhi should go to the smaller apartment so she doesn't have to hear Hikaru snore" Karou suggested with a cheeky smile. Knowing this would leave Kyoya to occupy the other room in the apartment downstairs with Haruhi.

Tamaki eyes widened and mouth dropped open.

"I don't snore!" Hikaru answered outraged.

"How would you know? You are always asleep." Karou countered.

"Do you think that is a good idea to leave Haruhi?.. Alone? What if there is a storm?" Tamaki argued fumbling for a reason for Haruhi to stay in the penthouse.

"I checked the forecast. It will be a clear night." Kyoya said soothingly to Tamaki. And she's not alone she has me.

"Why don't the idiot twins go down there?" Tamaki desperately suggested.

"Who are you calling an idiot? Making us play those stupid games for hours on end!" Hikaru yelled back. Which just started a new round of arguing between the twins and Tamaki.

Kyoya could see Haruhi subtly trying to hide a yawn from the corner of his eye. He did not know why Karou had given him such a glorious opportunity but he definitely would not waste it.

"Let me get your bag Haruhi" Kyoya said. Not before he saw Tamaki shaking the twins from the collar of their shirts.

Haruhi just nodded and followed Kyoya away from the newfound chaos before anyone noticed.

The apartment downwards was a normal sized, still larger than any apartment she had seen but not as intimating as the penthouse suite. Kyoya placed her bag in one of the bedrooms as she stifled another yawn.

"You must be exhausted Haruhi." Kyoya stopped in front of her and took her hands gently in his own.

"Thank you again for today" Kyoya said softly. Haruhi smiled sleep present in her features.

"It was my pleasure Kyoya-senpai" Haruhi stopped as Kyoya lifted her hands to his lips and kissed her knuckles. It was only the slightest sensation but Haruhi had felt every inch of his lips against her skin. They were soft and warm, she wanted them to linger there a moment longer. Reluctantly pulling her hands away from his face, he pressed both of his thumbs softly where he had placed the kiss, as if sealing it into her skin.

"Goodnight Haruhi" Kyoya bowed slightly and walked out to his own room.

Around 2am Kyoya stood in the kitchen thinking over the evenings' events. It hadn't been only the food that was fantastic but also the entire atmosphere. Everyone was chatting and laughing together. At home he ate dinner with his family in silence. His father would sit at the head of the table reading a newspaper or on his tablet, as were his brothers. His mother is she was present ate very little seldom spoke unless addressed by his father.

The moon was full tonight and flooded the kitchen with pale blue light.

The lights in the kitchen suddenly switched on breaking his train of thought.

Haruhi gasped in shock a hand flying up to her chest as Kyoya circled round to face her.

"Kyoya what are you doing up?" Haruhi asked shakily.

"I'm sorry I hope I did not wake you Haruhi" Kyoya said gently.

Kyoya was thankful he had a good poker face as his eyes wanted to jump out of his skull. Instead of her usual nightclothes Haruhi was wearing a very fancy nightdress. It was a mix of some stretchy cotton and lace. The slip was the colour of milk with a dark creamy lacy trim. It was fitted across her chest outlining her breasts and emphasizing her slim waist. Thin spaghetti straps managed to hold the dress in place. The skirt flared down loosely to just above her knees.

"Not at all. I just wanted a glass of water" Haruhi replied yet remained still. Kyoya stretched toward to the fridge to retrieve a bottle of water, crossed the kitchen to pass it over to her. Needing to be closer to her.

"Thank you senpai. Is something the matter?" Haruhi asked staring intently into his face.

Kyoya focused on her face trying with all his might not to look down at her chest.

"No everything is fine. I could not sleep. I am not the best sleeper most of the time and I did not bring my laptop to finish any work." Kyoya replied. To be honest he had hoped she would wake up.

"May I give you, you birthday gift now?" she asked.

Seeing you in that dress was more than enough.

His eyes softened toward her "You did not need to buy me anything. Tonight was truly one of the best meals I have ever eaten." Kyoya said sincerely.

Haruhi shook her head. "It is nothing extravagant just a small token. Please wait here while I get it from my room" already turning away from him to race back down the hallway.

Re-entering the room she paused a few inches in front of him. Lifting up a beautifully wrapped rectangular parcel for him to receive.

"Happy birthday senpai" her smile spread across her face but he could see a faint trace of a blush on her cheeks as well.

This woman would be the death of him. One hand grabbed the present and he was about to place it onto the island bench next to him.

"Aren't you going to open it?" Haruhi asked after his minute of silence.

Kyoya could not care less what Haruhi had bought him. That fact that she cared enough to cook a meal to his liking but to use her valuable time to go shopping and buy something for him was just too overwhelming.

He began to unwrap the present to distract himself from what she was wearing. The pastel purple paper seemed bright against the dark kitchen cupboards. He peeled back to reveal mahogany leather bound book. Kyoya's eyebrows rose to hers' in surprise. . She simply smiled and silently urged his attention back to the present. Pushing the rest of the paper aside he looked down at the book.

It was an A4 sized ledger made to appear as an old style first edition leather bound novel.

He flicked it open to crisp white untouched lined pages ready to be filled with his endless notes as he flicked to the front page there was an inscription.

To Kyoya-senpai,

Happy Birthday.

I wish you very many happy returns for your future.

With Love

from Haruhi

Kyoya's eyes blurred momentarily from tears that formed in his eyes. Feeling the outside of the book he noted that it was real leather, he guessed it was probably expensive.

"Haruhi, this is so thoughtful. But this probably cost you too much." Kyoya stopped knowing too well of her financial situation.

She shrugged. "I do work during the holidays so have some savings and honestly it was not that much" she blushed.

Without removing the book from hand his other hand he snaked around and pulled her into a tight hug. Only she would give him something so meaningful yet practical at the same time.

Kyoya hugged her close and breathed in her familiar floral scent. He rested the side of his face on top of her head, her soft hair caressing his check and closed his eyes.

"So I guess that means you like it?" Haruhi joked.

Kyoya opened is eyes and reluctantly let go just enough so he could see her face. He felt so content right at this moment nothing could ruin his good mood. The women he loved had cooked him a fantastic meal and had just given him a gift for no other reason than to know it would make him happy.

Haruhi yawned.

"I think I'm going to go back to bed" Haruhi said her eyelids dropping closed.

"Of course let me walk you back to your room" Kyoya took her arm and slowly escorted her back to her room. She was practically asleep on his shoulder by the time he arrived to her door.

"Haruhi" Kyoya said moving his shoulder to jostle her awake. It didn't work. He entered her room to guide her to her bed. Lying down he pulled the covers right up to her chin. Her face looked so peaceful with a small hint of a smile on her lips.

Kyoya was about to turn away when Haruhi said something eyes closed in a dreamy whisper.

"Happy Birthday…Kyoya"

That was the first time Haruhi had ever said his name without 'senpai' at the end. Kyoya bent down to kiss Haruhi on her forehead. Her smile widened sighing happily as she fell into a deeper sleep.

"Goodnight Haruhi" Kyoya said and walked out to his own room holding the ledger close to his heart.

Kyoya vaguely remembered hearing the banging of an apartment door opening and closing followed shortly after by the shrieking shrill of voices in the apartment. He decidedly ignored both so he could sleep longer. It was his birthday he could sleep in as long as he wanted. No one would dare come in and wake him up, especially after the last incident in the shopping centre.

Later, reluctantly opening his eyes he shuttered his lids in secession, allowing them to adjust to the darkened room. The digital clock read that it was 10:00. Hauling himself up he sat on the side of the king-size bed and rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. He suddenly remembered where he was and that Haruhi was in the other bedroom. Grabbing a dressing gown on his way out the bedroom door he tried to keep quiet in his urgency to see if she were awake. Once outside her door he gently knocked once to no answer

"Haruhi? Are you awake yet?" Kyoya attempted to speak softly just in case any other members of the house decided to make themselves known. He knocked again and after being meet with silence opened the door.

The door creaked open enough for him to peer inside. The curtain was drawn wide open and flooded the room with bright white sunlight revealing an empty queen-sized made-up bed. Kyoya walked in and surveyed the room; there was a note on the bedside table.

Kyoya

We did not want to wake you.

Haruhi needed to get back to do some study so I have taken her home.

Happy Birthday.

Tamaki

Kyoya crushed the note in his hand. That bastard! Sneaking her out in the early hours of the morning knowing that he would not wake up.

The mobile phone he had stuffed in his pocket vibrated against his leg. He reached into his pocket to see if it was an update on one of the stocks he had recently invested in.

Haruhi: Good morning Kyoya-senpai. I'm sorry I left early this morning but Tamaki-senpai insisted he drive me home. I am messaging you to tell you I am back home. Have a very Happy Birthday. Haruhi.

Kyoya's bad mood softened marginally. He imagined Tamaki barging in, waking Haruhi and insisting on driving her home. He shook his head. What an idiot. This weekend had only deepened his feelings for Haruhi. This realisation had summoned the memory of what his sister had whispered to him the previous night. "I think Haruhi might be your perfect match".