Bun Bun

by MiBo

The Ishikawa Family rose to power by producing the sweetest maple syrup but there is turmoil amongst the five siblings, two sets of twins, and a single middle child with a tea shop. She is to wed a prestigious family but extreme sibling rivalry left her to fend for herself for the first time in her life, her real world job is at Chateau Bunny, a maid cafe with a bunny girl theme.

10. A Winter Fairy Tale

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 and various others that appear. This story is inspired by Desire Climax and Kaichou-wa Maid-Sama. Merry Christmas Eve

Chapter 10 - A Winter Fairy Tale

Mayu was humming as she made dinner for herself and Mori, it was unusual to have him there but it was only the second day of his stay, and she was already giddy with excitement. Her hands placed everything into the rice cooker, closed the lid, and hit the cook button, she then poured the hot green tea, she placed it on her dining table, and took a seat across from him. Her ruby irises were gleaming, he smiled at her, and she returned it while removing her phone so that she could check her bank balance.

"What does Kyoya know about you mother?"

She looked up at him then returned to her phone, "She's pregnant." Mori stared at her, "My father doesn't even know nor do my siblings. He told me because she went to one of the Ootori Hospitals and he felt that I should know about it."

"Why?"

"He's concerned that the child will look like me."

"Why would he be concerned about that?"

"I'm not sure. Must be something about how I was able to bring him back to his friends. You would have to ask him as I'm only speculating."

"I see."

She nodded, "But arrangements are being taken care of in case my little brother does turn out like me. And I'm excited because I'm going to have a little brother like you!"

He smiled at her, "What are the arrangements?"

"Selka will keep him if he doesn't look like me but if he does then I'll take care of him because she's more than likely going to give him up for adoption and I won't have that. It will be hard for me but I'll care for him, I won't let her give up my blood."

Takashi's eyes softened while she checked her bank account, his mind had turned to the day that she held Kotoko, and he leaned back in the chair while sipping his tea. "If only I didn't have to hold back..." he murmured. She looked up at him and tilted her head, he shook his own, and she returned to scrolling through the items, she got up, removed a notebook from a drawer along with a pen, and sat down to go over her expenses for the week. The Morinozuka male leaned forward, he propped his head on his hand while putting his elbow on the table. His eyes watched her as she wrote down everything, and there was that warm smile on his face. I wish I didn't have to but I can't. She's not ready or maybe it's the other way around. Maybe I'm the one who's not ready... Mayu put everything away then returned to her seat, "It's okay?"

"Yes. I always check at the end of the week to make sure."

"You're good at it."

Mayu grinned, "I did it with Shining Grove Tea so I know what I'm doing." She leaned forward, took his hands in hers, and whispered, "Why are you holding back for my sake?" He stared at her once more, "If you want to do something you should be able to do it without worrying about me. I'm fine Taka."

He leaned forward, kissed her hands, and whispered, "Don't worry about me so much alright?"

"But you worry about me all the time so I'm going to worry about you just like my Da and my Gammy. I even worry about Reiko and Mitsukuni and Yasuchika too! AND Haruhi and Tamaki, Kotoko, Kyoya, Kaoru, Hikaru, Nao, Tasuku, Jin, Kairi, Ren, Saki, and even Umehito and the Oshiro Family! Even Amara AND I even worry about your little brother, whom I haven't met yet!"

"You have a lot of worry for others. It's a good thing your hair is white."

The Ishikawa Maiden paused and laughed, he chuckled with her as she calmed down, "Good one Taka!" She calmed herself down and smiled at him, it made her ruby eyes twinkle, Takashi smiled in return while she got up to prepare the dishes that were going to be used. He kept himself seated there while his eyes watched her, she grabbed the two bowls, and the rice paddle. Once it was set up, she took her Belzeneff doll and disappeared into the bedroom, it was placed on the nightstand, and she returned within minutes but stood near the table. "I think I might need a bureau for you if you want to stay more often." Immediately his attention snapped onto her, she was smiling at him, "Don't worry about me. I can handle you Taka."

He gave that low rumbling laughter that she liked while he stared into her eyes, "You only think you can handle me, Snowbelle."

"Oh? Try me."

"I know you can't."

Mayu gave a smirk, this time it was Takashi's turn to feel lightly flushed, but it went unnoticed by the Light Maiden as she gave a raspy whisper, "There's a lot you don't know about me...Takashi." Immediately he stood up, at this point he could barely contain himself, he watched as she stood her ground while he sauntered towards her, and she continued to watch as he wrapped one arm around her waist roughly; the other cupped her chin. "Ah, I struck a cord."

His voice was low and hoarse, "You did, Snowbelle. This is a warning, if you say my name again, I won't be able to hold back and I won't wait for your consent no matter where you are." He ran his thumb over her lower lip, the coral lipstick was smeared slightly, his dark eyes watched as it trembled, not out of fear, but excitement; that trembling lower lip curved into a small smile, and his dark eyes trailed up to her eyes. There was a spark of newfound danger there, "Only warning Snowbelle." He kissed her forehead fondly then released her, took his seat once more, and watched as she caught her breath; he could definitely tell that she liked it as she placed a hand over her heart.

When she caught her breath, she replied, "I'll be careful Mori." He gave her a smirk as she refilled his tea once more, and returned to waiting for the food to finish. Since her back was towards him, she was able to bite her lower lip from all the adrenaline. Now I know my boundary with him. So exciting! Mayu was definitely going to tell Reiko about this little encounter once she had a chance. The rice cooker beeped, so she waited for it stop, then opened the lid; she used the rice paddle to put food in each bowl, and then closed the lid once more. Mayu placed one in front of Mori, then herself, and took a seat. They clapped their hands together and she said, "May your light shine bright and strong Lady Amaterasu. Please bless those I care for with good health and prosperity. There used to be only two names that I would ask you to bless and now there are so many more and if I were to say them then it would take far too long." Mori smiled at her as she continued, "Thank you always for hearing my prayers and granting them, you are most beloved Lady Amaterasu."

"That was beautiful Light Maiden."

She smiled, "Thank you Martial Nozuka."

He chuckled in return and they began to eat their food. He took a bite, paused, and stated, "This is really good." Mayu blushed lightly and he smile while continuing to eat, he thought to himself, I've never been this open with anyone, always closed off and silent. She pushes me to speak, to tell her how I feel, to tell her that everything's alright...she's my shining light in the dark. I think... His mind trailed off because he knew if he kept that thought going then he would need to deal with something else. Not in her home.

Once they finished, she washed all the dishes, and kept the leftovers in the pot, she made some coffee, and they retired to the living room. Each one took a seat, she sighed happily while sipping her coffee. Mayu snuggled up to Mori, he chuckled, and listened to the quiet of the room, "Taka?" He looked at her, "Are you okay with me teasing you?"

"I'm fine with it."

"Are you sure? Because I've never...been like this with anyone since I've never really...been with anyone. I want to make sure it's okay with you."

He kissed her head, "It's fine because I'll tease you in return."

She chuckled, "Are you tired?"

"A little."

"When you're finished you can take a shower. I'll clean the cups."

"Thank you Snowbelle." He wrapped an arm around her shoulders while his other hand held the coffee cup, they sipped it in silence, and she wore a smile on her face while he wore one as well. The pair were quite content with one another's company and Mayu knew that she was going to have to talk with Reiko on their Girl's Night Out. Abruptly he asked, "Do you have a kimono for Christmas?"

"I have a very special one. It's the only one that I have here that I didn't put in storage."

"Good."

"Why?"

"It's my secret."

She laughed, he smiled, "Okay Taka."

-::::::-

The following day was exiciting for Takashi as he was able to go with her to work, he had followed her out of her home, and to the café. He took his customary seat with his back towards the wall and his dark eyes focused on the table while she was in the back room getting changed. He could hear Kairi giggling and teasing Mayu, a small smile slid its way onto his face, and he waited for her to come out. Mayu was grinning in the back room, it was Cosplay Monday, and Ren had out done herself, the Light Maiden stated, "It's so cute! I wish I could wear it all the time!"

"Don't forget this!" Ren quickly placed a little sailor cap on her head, Mayu immediately saluted the chef, and she laughed. "It suits you so well Bun Bun!"

Mayu grinned, "That's because you make all of my costumes Ren!" Everyone laughed while Kairi and Mayu put their faces on, once finished, they exited into the dining room to set up. Mori looked up and stared at her, the sailor mini dress hugged her every curve, the long floppy ears only accentuated her chest as they curved around her bust. She wore white stockings with anchors printed all over them and blue heels to match the blue trim on the dress. The top was tight like her normal uniform, the red kerchief accented how tight the dress was, and he continued to watch her as she went about her business; completely oblivious that he was there but not so much as he realized there was a cup of coffee in front of him. He didn't even have to put in sugar and cream, the male sipped it gently but his eyes were always on Mayu. Once everything was set up, she flipped the sign to open, and immediately backed up so that they could enter. Kairi and Mayu delved right into the fray, Mori always kept a smile on his face as she worked, it was hidden by the coffee cup but she knew it was there, and his cake arrived.

Once more, he finished quickly, sipped his coffee, and watched as they rotated their tables; cleaned them off, and spoke to each patron. The Oshiro banker had entered once more, she greeted him warmly, he smiled, sat down, and took in a deep breath. Immediately she went behind him, rubbed his shoulders a little, and he laughed while telling her she didn't have to do that. "Oui maitre." He chuckled again, ordered, and watched as she bounded off to complete his request. His eyes traveled to Mori, they locked with one another and Ichiro gave him a thumbs up, this made Mori blink a few times but the man winked at him, and thanked Mayu for her quick service. She smiled, "You know I only aim to please maitre."

"That you do Bun Bun and you do such a wonderful job!" She decided to do something different, so she took the ends of her mini dress, tugged them gently, and gave a little curtsy before heading off to check up on her other customers, she refilled everyone's coffee, once a table freed up and it was cleaned off; Umehito slithered inside. Ichiro nearly choked on his coffee when he realized who Umehito was. He was in shock as Mayu gave him the coffee that he liked so much.

"You are too kind Bun Bun. We thank you very much." He looked inside, "Oh! But this is different."

"Of course maitre. I made a cat marshmallow that looks like Monsieur Belzeneff. I do hope that it's alright."

Umehito looked at the puppet that seemed to move of its own accord, and he grinned, "Of course it is. His Lordship says he is honored that you were able to create such a thing. Perhaps you would like to make something sweet like him. A cookie perhaps? A loaf?"

She chuckled, "I will think of something for Bun Bun's Bon Bon's tomorrow. I will work on it all night!"

"Very good! If he approves, we will discuss something else that could be lucrative for you."

"Of course maitre." Umehito nodded with a grin while sipping his black coffee that slowly sweetened from the melting marshmallow. The Black Magic Club leader glanced at Mori, his eyes watched the silent host, and gave an imperceptible smirk as the taller male only kept his eyes on Mayu. Umehito grinned while the Belzeneff puppet moved of its own accord, he looked down at the Cat Lord of Black Magic; the male grinned and nodded again.

As the hours wore on, the rush ended, Ichiro had left, Umehito, and others; Mayu was prepping for Nao until she heard the squeaky voice of Amara. She kept a sigh from escaping her lips and simply wore a small smile on her face as she set everything up for her salt and pepper friend. Just as predicted, she bounced into the dining room and announced loudly, "I'M HERE! You two can go home now. I'll take over everything."

Mayu looked at her, the other patrons soon took an interest, "Oh?" Amara stared at Mayu as the Light Maiden put her hands on her hips, "You'll be fine on your own? I don't think you should be so pompous Pippie."

She huffed, "I can do this whole room by myself!"

Red eyes twinkled as she scoffed, "I'm sure."

"I CAN!" Mayu only nodded while she turned her back so that she could finish her work, she was wiping down a table that she had just cleared. Amara fumed, stamped her foot, then stalked up behind the floppy bunny. Kairi had just returned from serving the only patron in the cafe at the moment when she looked and gasped. Mayu turned slightly but it was already too late, Amara shoved Mayu to the side, it caused her to fall on the ground roughly. The maiden was able to catch herself but not before hitting her wrist on the side of the table. "That'll teach you to talk back to a senior bunny." She smirked down at her, Mayu gently held her wrist with her free hand, and then the chains began to weaken. Mori watched as she stood up, she was standing with a slight hunch in her posture, as if ready to pounce, her right wrist was cradled close to her body, she turned to glare at Amara who only puffed her chest out in triumph. "What? You got something to say to a senior bunny? Go on, say it."

"You're pathetic," she growled.

"What? I'm pathetic? I'm not the one who hurt their wrist and can no longer work." Mayu tried to calm herself down but was unable so she looked at Kairi, the woman nodded, and Mayu gave a devilish smirk. The owner only grinned while folding her arms across her chest to watch the spectacle unfold. Even Mori had taken to standing in case he was needed but he was also curious about this chained wolf that Mayu had told him about. Amara walked up to her, "Well? You got something to say, Spoiled Rich Brat?"

That was it, the chains snapped, in a flash Mayu sank her teeth into Amara's exposed shoulder, she screamed in pain, luckily there was only one patron inside, and Mayu kept her teeth clamped until there was blood. The Ishikawa Maiden released her teeth, swished her mouth, then spit the blood and saliva all over Amara's uniform. That single ruby eye glowed like an ember and her voice was dark, "Don't you ever call me a 'spoiled rich brat' again Pippie. Otherwise it won't be your shoulder next time." Mori immediately approached her from behind, wrapped his arms around her shoulders, and she calmed down. Mayu blinked a few times, looked at Amara, and sighed deeply. Her gaze brought her to Kairi, she was staring at her but soon grinned, "I'll finish up, Jackie."

"Go ahead Bun Bun." When Mori released her, she turned away so that she could finish, "We told you that albino's have the worst bite." The single patron chuckled, Kairi looked over at him, and said, "Your bill is on the house as long as nothing leaves the cafe." The man put his hands to show that he wouldn't say a single word, Kairi nodded, and looked at Mayu as she gave a smile before turning to finish up, "Can you work Pippie?"

The girl was in shock but nodded as Saki exited the kitchen to see the commotion, the bite mark made her pale but she took her to the back room to get changed. Once Mayu finished up, she exited the dining room, immediately she changed into her usual self, a delicate hand roughly messed up her short hair, and she wiped her face clean then put on her coral lipstick and orange eyeshadow. She switched into her red flannel, tweed coat, scarf, jeans, and boots but was mindful of her wrist. Her cognac fedora and gloves were pulled on except for one, then she left through the front. "Thank you for your hard work everyone!" They repeated the same thing to her as she kept her wrist close to her body.

Kairi approached her, embraced her gently, and whispered, "That was the coolest thing I had ever seen, so that is what your siblings are afraid of." She nodded while the owner continued, "You're staying here Mayu, no one can force me to fire you and I would rather get rid of Amara but I don't have another bunny yet. I'll keep looking." Mayu smiled, "Now get your hand taken care of. I'm sure there's someone who knows someone who can help out?" Kairi winked at her and Mayu chuckled, "That's better! Now go on home. If you can work tomorrow just show up."

"I'll come in even if fire was falling from the sky."

She laughed, "That's our little Bun Bun!"

Ren darted out of the kitchen to hug Mayu as well, she returned it, when they parted, the girl said with a grin, "Sort of reminded me of that white rabbit from the movie Monty Python and the Quest for the Holy Grail. You know, the killer rabbit? It was also an albino." Mayu snickered while Kairi hooted with laughter and Ren grinned. "Get well soon! And watch the movie!"

"I'll be in tomorrow and I'll watch it soon."

"Great! I've got a special costume for you tomorrow!"

Mayu laughed, "I look forward to it!" Ren nodded while Mayu left with Mori shortly behind her, they were out in the cold, and she noticed a limo. She glanced up at Takashi, "Yours?" He shook his head and she chuckled, "Kyoya's." He nodded while the door was opened for them, they climbed in, and headed off towards Kyoya Ootori's home.

-::::::-

Mayu was sitting on the sofa, her sleeve was rolled up, and Kyoya was examining it closely, there was a first aid kit sitting on the table, it was opened, and all sorts of things were strewn about the coffee table. He was gently prodding certain areas, "How does that feel?" She shrugged, when he hit a tender spot, she took in a sharp breath, he looked up at her, and could see tears in her eyes. "That's most likely where you hit it. All around that area is going to be tender and bruising. Not so much swelling but you'll need to keep it wrapped." She nodded and watched as he pulled out a beige bandage, he wrapped it snugly around her wrist, she sniffled, and when he finished he patted it gently. "All done. Remember to let it breathe at home, put some ice on it just in case, and try not to put anything heavy on that hand for two weeks."

"Okay. Thank you Kyoya."

He shrugged as he packed up his kit, "What happened?"

"Amara Jasuto pushed her in the dining area at Chateau Bunny." Kyoya looked at Mori who was sitting across from Mayu, watching her with a twinkle in his eyes. "Snowbelle retaliated."

"What did you do Mayu?" asked the Ootori male.

She snickered, "I bit her in the shoulder."

Kyoya stared at her, "Why?"

"She called me a 'spoiled rich brat' and I snapped. Her shoulder seemed like a good place to bite so I did otherwise it might have been her face. Amara will probably sue me and I don't care, I'll take care of it."

"How? You're finances aren't exactly available for a lawyer that deals with that kind of case."

"It's being taken care of." Kyoya and Mayu looked at Mori, he smiled warmly at her, "If Snowbelle is in trouble then I'm here to help her regardless of what kind of trouble." Mayu smiled warmly at him, it made her eyes twinkle, and Kyoya nodded as he finished packing his kit.

"It's good to know that you're opening up Mori." The taller male looked at his conniving counterpart, "In the host club you were always so quiet, so loyal to Honey, none of us thought you would actually open up to anyone but him. But you're here with Mayu." Mori smirked, "It's a good thing. Without Mayu then I don't think I would have gotten back in touch with anyone either."

"You're welcome." The two males looked at Mayu who was sitting there smiling, "I'm glad to have been of help."

"You want cake and coffee?" asked Mori.

"That would be wonderful."

He nodded and looked at Kyoya, "You?"

Kyoya was going to protest but sighed, "Fine. I'll come."

"Good." Once more the two men looked at the maiden, she was smiling, "It's more fun with friends and a significant other." Mori chuckled and Kyoya put his kit away, grabbed his book, and jotted something down in it while leading the other two out of his room so they could get some cake.

-::::::-

They were sitting in Blossom Cakes San and she was sipping her much needed coffee, although her one hand was gently resting on the table. Her opposite hand was more than happy to accommodate the unfortunate loss, she sipped the liquid gently, placed the mug down, and sighed happily.

"Better?" asked Mori.

"Always better to be around friends." She smiled at the two men that sat across from her while she picked up the menu to look at it. On the very front page was a section titled 'Sweet Grove.' Mayu smiled fondly at the words then glanced at them, she chuckled, and decided on something that she knew she would enjoy. The waiter returned, she looked up at him and smiled, "I'd like the Peach Madeleine please." He nodded then took the other orders, she quietly sipped her coffee until Kyoya spoke up.

"Why the Madeleine?"

"I served the owners something quite similar at the estate. It was a fun time that day." He nodded, jotted something down in his book then proceeded to watch the interaction between Mori and Mayu once more. "Taka tells me that he has a surprise for me at Christmas." Mori sipped his tea quietly while Kyoya eyed him suspiciously. "He asked me about a kimono." At this he put his cup down and looked from Kyoya to Mayu then shrugged. She laughed, "He won't tell me but I have a hunch that it's a good surprise but my kimono is super special."

"Why? Does it have something to do with Lady Amaterasu?" Mayu sipped her coffee while giving the Ootori male a secretive smile, Takashi let a silent sigh escape him, the man in glasses looked at the taller male, jotted something down once more, and returned to sipping his own coffee. "You like it here Mayu?"

"I do. It's cozy but not as cozy as Chateau Bunny."

"I see. Why did you choose that place?"

She thought for a moment and shrugged while looking into the liquid of her coffee, "I'm really not sure. I told my Da and my Gammy that it was the only place that let me start right away but that's not true. I called many places and they were all willing to let me start right away but there was just something about that place that piqued my curiosity. I had to know what it was like so I took the job. But I think what it really got me hooked was the ad."

"What did it say?"

"It said, 'Need Bunny A.S.A.P. Serious inquiries only must be comfortable wearing bunny suit.' So I thought to myself that it would be interesting to go see Chateau Bunny. Sure enough, it was a good choice."

"Did Lady Amaterasu influence your choice?"

Mayu blinked a few times, her brow scrunched, "My Lady does not interfere with those who are her followers. She may guide them at times and listen to our prayers but she does not interfere with our lives and I do not ask her to do so. She has a much higher purpose than to grant any menial prayer that remotely involves selfishness and those that do pray to her with such thoughts are not true followers of the Sun Goddess."

Kyoya smirked, "Spoken like a true priestess."

"Thank you." Mori smirked behind his coffee as well while their treats arrived, Mayu thanked the waiter, and proceeded to nibble on her cookie. Although it was slow because she was mindful of her wrist. They conversed about the coming holiday and she was ever so eager to crash her family's Christmas party. "I intend to wear my kimono there, my siblings won't dare to try anything in front of prospective husbands." Kyoya nodded while she picked up her last cookie, she leaned over the table, and handed it to Mori. Instead of taking it from her hands, he grabbed it with his teeth, and slowly removed it from her fingers. Only then did he munch on the cookie, she smiled at him while Kyoya jotted more things down in his little black book.

As they ended their small cake party, they exited, the waiter was surprised at the tip that Mori had left for him, and she held her injured hand close to her body in the cold. Mori looked at it and she shook her head while Kyoya stated, "The cold is good for it. Take care you too." Mayu and Mori said the same to him as they parted ways, the martial artist took the maiden to her home while Kyoya leaned against the corner of the cake shop. He sighed, The person to bring me back to my friends had to be the same person that Mori loves. She's useless to the Ootori Family but yet her kindness... He sighed and smiled, The fact that I care about her on behalf of Mori is astounding. She has the same effect on people that Haurhi did. And here I thought life couldn't surprise me any more, well you win. Surprise me some more. He glanced around the corner and smirked as they disappeared into the falling snow, he got into his limo, and looked down at his phone. "What is this? It's from Mayu?" He clicked the text message and read aloud, "Thanks for helping me out today. I really appreciate it so, again, if there's anything I can do for you just say the word!" He chuckled and texted back that he would let her know. Immediately she responded, "Good! Because if I find out that you asked someone else instead of me, I'll be very upset and you don't want to upset an albino bunny...we bite." Kyoya chuckled again and replied that he would keep it in mind. "Great! Thanks again!" He put his phone away and sighed, he rubbed a hand over his face, and there as a smirk that wouldn't disappear. "Mayu Ishikawa...interesting person just like Haruhi."

-::::::-

The following day was rough for Mayu, she woke up with her hand in pain, she sniffled, wiped the tears from her eyes, and immediately started to get ready. She snuck into the kitchen to see Mori still sleeping on the couch, she smiled, then proceeded to start the oolong tea, the scent wafted through the kitchen, Mori sat up groggy, he peeked his dark eyes over the sofa to watch her. She was wearing her nightgown with robe on, oblivious to the fact that he was staring at her, and she began to make the breakfast. This time he noticed that she put eggs into the rice cooker then vegetables and tofu, she closed it, and hit the cook button while preparing the tea. The Morinozuka male also noted that she rarely used her injured wrist, when she could, she used her forearm to hold things in place. He was about to return to sleep until he noticed that her robe was open, this piqued his interest as a towel fell onto the floor. "Darn." She leaned over, his eyes went wide as he had a clear view of her chest, she was wearing a bra but it only pushed her flesh together; Mori immediately laid on his side. Mayu returned to her bedroom, he sighed, closed his eyes, and soon glared at his lower torso.

The maiden returned fully clothed for the day, she heard her guest get up, "Good morning!" He grunted, she chuckled, "Shower's ready." He grunted again while she chuckled, she was focused on her preparations in the morning so she didn't notice his awkward gait to the bathroom. Once there, Mori was able to cool off and think straight. He returned shortly after to see that breakfast was ready, he sat down, and clapped his hands together with Mayu. "Bless this day Lady Amaterasu. Please give everyone I care for good health and prosperity. It may be the same every day but I care for them greatly and I want your shining rays of light to bathe them in all your glory. To know that they are loved always as friends and family and sometimes more." She removed her hands, her ruby irises locked with those dark ones, and she smiled while beginning to eat her breakfast.

It was quick work to get ready to head out to Chateau Bunny, Mori followed behind her, he watched as she kept her hand close to her body, once inside the café though, it was a different story. She headed to the back room, when she undressed, Ren surprised her. Mayu looked at the outfit and squealed in joy, "It's awesome!"

"I knew you'd love it! I got one for Kairi too!" She laughed and immediately changed into the Nurse uniform, she used the gauze that Ren gave her to wrap her arm up in a sling, when she returned, Ren grinned. "It's so perfect!"

"You're so talented Ren. Why do you stay here?"

She winked at the maiden, "Perhaps it's the same reason that you want to stay a bunny."

The woman laughed, "Touche!" They laughed together while Ren helped to put on the face of Bun Bun, the floppy ears were attached, and she was ready to go, so she headed to the kitchen. Ren had asked why she was there so early, "I promised Umehito that I would make something look like Lord Belzeneff. I didn't have any time yesterday so I came in early." Ren nodded and opened up the kitchen to her, so she quickly grabbed the basic ingredients for chocolate cookies, the pastry chef was writing down everything that Mayu told her for the special that day. Once the chocolate cookie mix had been finished, she used her hand to shape it into Belzeneff, then she made indentations with a knife for the eyes and the mouth, and Mayu then took a bit of white chocolate, placed it into the slits, and showed it to Ren. "Ta da! Belzeneff Cookie!"

"It's great! I'm going to put it up on the board!"

"Thank you Ren."

"No problem Mayu! Oh and I'm going to make a regular version too!"

The woman followed Ren into the dining area, Mori was sitting in his usual seat to watch, and he looked up to see the commotion. Mayu smiled as she read it, "Bun Bun's Bon Bon's. Belzeneff Cookikus." She paused, "Cookikus?"

"Yep, cookikus. I was making cookies last night and said the word so fast that it sounded like that so I thought that's a word that Bun Bun would say! Besides, I'll give everyone a mixed batch, two and two!"

"Why two and two?"

"Because Bun Bun and Bon Bon."

Mayu laughed, Mori smiled at her, Ren hopped down, and they returned to setting up, after thirty minutes they were good to go, and Saki and Kairi entered. Both were astonished to see that they were already done, "We work fast even though I'm one handed." Kairi laughed and quickly went to get ready so they could open up a little earlier. When everything was finished, Kairi laughed at the board's special, and Mayu grinned, the first person to enter was Umehito. Mayu immediately brought him the special, he was in awe of it.

"They are very good! I do like them and so does Lord Belzeneff."

"I'm glad maitre!"

He grinned, snapped a photo, and immediately uploaded it, "I have a blog now."

"Oh? Do tell!"

"Of course Bun Bun! You see whenever I come here, I take a picture of what I have and then I upload it to my blog for all of my followers to see. We vote on what is the best but none have been unanimous. But I have a feeling that this will be, would you mind making these for my club?"

She blinked, "Not at all! I'd be delighted too!"

"Very good! Just give me the ingredients and I'll get them set up for you. I'll need quantities because I need about two thousand cookies. One thousand of each, can you do it?"

Mayu leaned over and grinned, "I accept. I'll even do it with a single hand."

He laughed, "Very good! I assume that your guard will be coming with?"

"Of course he will!"

"Great! He can help you." Mayu laughed and said that she would return with the list, she jotted everything that she would need on a sheet of paper then handed it to Umehito. "Much obliged Bun Bun. Reiko will be there as well so you won't feel so alone."

"Monsieur Nekozawa, Monsieur Belzeneff, I am never alone as long as your totem is with me and as long as I am friends with Reiko and you." The Black Magic Club Leader grinned and nodded while munching on his Belzeneff cookies.

"Then I should tell you that the cookies are for a bake sale, we are short on members and are in need of some funds."

"Whatever the reason Monsieur Nekozawa, you are my friend and I will always help my friends."

"Thank you Bun Bun." She bowed to him while returning to work, Umehito texted Reiko, and he was grinning and murmuring to himself while Mori heard the entire exchange. He was wearing a smile as she worked, when they began to get busy, he noted that no one was rowdy, they were sympathizing with her wrist, every patron was kind and patient with her and Kairi; neither one noticed the increase in tips either.

As it wore towards the end, Mayu changed out of her clothes, said her farewells, and immediately was scooped up by Mori. She returned the embrace with a single arm, "I'm alright."

"Are you sure?" He leaned back to look at her, she nodded, and he released her, they were already standing outside of the café but Kairi was in the window, she was making smooching motions at them, and they both chuckled. "Bye Kairi." She waved to him as they headed off, but they didn't get very far as a limo pulled up, Reiko nearly jumped through the window to hug Mayu. "Hm?"

"I guess the bake off is today?"

"Yeah, you don't mind?"

"Not at all. Did you bring some of your clothes?"

"No but I brought something close." Mayu grinned as Mori let them enter first then he followed suit, "How are you going to bake with one arm?"

"I'll help." They turned to look at Mori, Mayu smiled at him, kissed him on his cheek, and thanked him. "You're welcome Snowbelle."

"Oh! Reiko you'll be baking too right?"

"Of course! Honey's going to buy some cookies too so I'll help you."

Mayu nodded, "Good, I've got something to tell you. Come here." She leaned in close and immediately Mayu started to tell her about what happened when she called Mori by his full name. Takashi was sitting so close to them and even he couldn't hear them, when Reiko giggled, and glanced at Mori, he tilted his head. He only shook his head while texting his cousin that his wife and his girlfriend were conspiring about something in the limo. Mayu chuckled, they soon arrived at the school, and she was astounded at the size of Ouran. "I've never been here, this place is amazing!"

"I know. I met Honey here and if you came here then you might have found Mori a lot sooner."

"Yeah, I probably would have." Mayu looked up at Mori and he looked at her, he smiled, removed her hat, kissed her head, and then replaced the hat. She chuckled, "Thank you Mori." He nodded while they entered the kitchen. "When I'm done with a batch, Taka can take it to the stand to be sold." He nodded and Reiko threw on a black apron for her, "Thank you! I love it!" It had the face of Belzeneff on it and she laughed, "This is the best apron ever!" Immediately she jumped into making the cookies with Reiko, Mori stood by and noticed that Umehito appeared next to him.

"Winter fairy tale?"

"Hm?"

"Mayu. She's your winter fairy tale, yes?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean this winter you have her with you. You're going to introduce her to your parents on Christmas." Mori only stared at the Black Magic Lord, "Lord Belzeneff has told me all sorts of things. She has eyes only for you and this winter will be the beginning of many more memorable ones."

Mori smirked, "Also, some of your old patrons will be passing by later. Is that alright?" He nodded, "Even if they see you with the Light Maiden?"

"I don't care."

"Very good!" Umehito slithered away, Mori looked to his side, and the man was nowhere to be found, he looked around but couldn't find the eccentric Nekozawa heir. He shrugged and watched as they chatted, conversed, and made the cookies, the first batch was already in the oven, and he noticed how Mayu rotated everything. Each tray had half regular and half chocolate so that they would have both to sell, Mori watched as the baskets were filling up, once full, he grabbed one in each hand, and took it to the table to be sold. Each pouch had four cookies, two regular, and two chocolate.

"This is so much fun!" exclaimed Reiko. Mayu nodded but accidentally tapped her wrist, she took in a sharp breath, "Are you alright?" She nodded, while Reiko watched as she held her arm close to her breast, it was easier for her to keep an eye on it as they made the cookies. "We should do this more often at my place." Mayu laughed and nodded as they continued to work through the dough until it was all finished. "All done! It only took two hours." Mayu laughed once more while they began to clean up, Mori was standing by the table to attract more customers, the ones from the host club had stopped by and asked him questions but he never answered them. Instead a familiar voice piped in that made Reiko gasp, she turned to see him standing there.

"Thought I could help out too."

"Honey!"

Mayu watched as the married couple embraced, she sauntered up to Mori, she patted him on his back, and he smiled down at her. He listened to her talk to the other club members, they said that they were so happy to have her help, and she was happy to help. As Takashi and Mitsukuni were recognized, the cookies began to sell out even faster since they brought traffic but some of them were wondering who Mayu was, she was talking freely with everyone including Takashi and Mitsukuni, there were dark eyes on her, and she shivered. Immediately Mori looked down, he wrapped an arm around her shoulders to keep her warm,there were gasps from the crowd.

Mitsukuni grinned, "Takashi, how is your girlfriend?" More gasps and the gossip began to spew around as they realized that their former 'cool' host had someone and they didn't know about it.

He looked down at him, "Ask her yourself."

Mayu was nudged forward, she greeted Honey, "It's so good to see you again Honey! How have you been? How's Chika?" Once more the murmurs began but she ignored them as Honey told her that he was fine and so was his brother. He asked about her wrist, "I hit it at work but it'll be better. Kyoya patched me up." He chuckled at her while patting her wrist, "Reiko had a lot of fun baking so I'll come by more often and she's welcome to come to my place too."

"Will do Mayu! And thank you for this." She only nodded while the sale wore down to its last bit and everyone thanked each other, she was thanked more than most but she said that everyone did a great job. Mayu grinned at them, Reiko removed her apron, and set it back in the box. Mayu stated that they could keep the recipe for next time, Umehito was shocked but she winked at him, it was her gift to the Black Magic Club while Lady Amaterasu's was her shadow. They cheered for her and she said her farewells but not before Umehito handed her an envelope.

She looked at it and he said, "For helping the club you can have some of the profits." Mayu immediately pushed it towards him while stating that she charges nothing for friends and family. "You are most generous Light Maiden." Mayu once more smiled and embraced him with her good arm, he was shocked but returned the gesture, and she said her farewells once more. The limo from the Haninozuka's took the pair to Mayu's home. She said her goodbyes to them and they headed inside, she flopped onto the couch with Mori next to her.

"What a day." He nodded, "So what's the Christmas secret?" He chuckled while she got up to take a shower and he simply leaned back in the sofa to listen to her.

-::::::-

Days wore into weeks and those weeks brought about the winter holiday, the very same one that Mori had kept secret from Mayu. She was putting on her makeup, she had acquired a new lipstick that she could wear outside of Chateau Bunny, and she was eager to show it to Mori. Mayu glided the deep crimson color onto her lips, it was sparkly too, she added the tints of pink, red, and bronze over her eyes, then she proceeded to get dressed in her kimono. She pulled on the red undergarments that slowly faded to pink, the outer one was trimmed with red, and held yellow pale suns on the sleeves and bottom hem that faded away as they made their way up the fabric. Mayu wrapped the gilded obi around her waist, folded it over, and made a square in the back. She had curled her hair with the help of Reiko, so her short hair was now full of beautiful curls. The Ishikawa Maiden had taken some of her curls and pinned them using a sun barrett to hold them back on one side.

She took in a deep breath and exited her bedroom, Mori was waiting for her with Mitsukuni and Reiko as well as Yasuchika. It was the younger Haninozuka that approached her, he whispered, "You look wonderful Mayu."

"Thank you Chika." He nodded and it was then that Reiko gasped, it drew the attention of the other two males, and Mori simply stared at her. "Too much?"

"Not at all Mayu," stated Mitsukuni. He looked up at his cousin and whispered, "Say something." Mori glanced down at him, "Well if you feel on the verge of doing something then do something small to take your mind off of it." He shook his head, "You asked her if she had a kimono."

"I know but...she's beautiful."

"So tell her."

He nodded and approached Mayu, he looked down at her and whispered, "You're beautiful Snowbelle."

"Thank you Taka, you're handsome in a kimono too." He gave that low chuckle, she blushed momentarily, and he took note so he leaned in and gave her a light kiss on her cheek. Mayu flushed briefly again while they focused on the others, "Well let's go! My family's party is always the day after Christmas and we have Christmas Eve and Christmas day together! Let's go have some fun!"

"Agreed, my younger brother is in the car," replied Mori.

"The what are we waiting for? Let's go!" As they were leaving her apartment, they noticed that she grabbed her market tote, but Mori took it from her. "Thank you." He nodded, she locked up the door, and headed out with her friends to the limo to meet her boyfriend's brother. When they climbed inside, her red irises were met with those familiar dark ones of Takashi only these held a lot more energy. "Hello, I'm Mayu Ishikawa."

"So you're big bro's girlfriend." Mayu nodded and he grinned, "So nice to meet you! He's kept you a secret so long that I thought you were invisible!"

She laughed, "I thought you were too!"

They laughed together while he said, "I'm Satoshi." The pair began to talk to one another about animals and Yasuchika even joined in, she was asking them about the animals that they took care of and even exchanged phone numbers with them. Mori smiled and looked at Mitsukuni who only grinned at his cousin. After a time, Satoshi turned to Mori, "Can we bring her home? She's awesome!"

"Tomorrow."

"Great! You can come and meet Big Bro's pets!"

"Oh?" she glanced at Mori. "He never mentioned to me about any pets." There was that glimmer of newfound danger in her eye that he recognized. Mori leaned over and told his cousin what had happened when she said his name. Mitsukuni nodded in understanding and she turned back to the younger brothers who were jabbering about their animals. "I'm so excited to meet them but one day at a time!" As the limo pulled into the temple areas, they were ushered out by Satoshi, he was excited as were the others, when Mayu got out of the limo, she was surprised to see that Kaoru, Hikaru, Kyoya, Tamaki, and Haruhi were there as well. Kotoko was with them, she immediately hugged Haruhi, and looked down at the baby. "Hi there Kotoko. How have you been?" The baby giggled and Haruhi smiled as Mayu brushed her thumb across the baby's forehead. "As always, may Lady Amaterasu's rays of light shine bright upon you little one."

"Thank you Mayu."

"You're welcome Haruhi. How have you been?"

"Wonderful and you?" She shrugged, "You look beautiful."

"This is my extra special Christmas kimono!" Haruhi laughed as Reiko approached them, Mayu was sure to bring Reiko in close as she could sense the woman's unease. "We're all friends here! Look, Kotoko likes you Reiko! You both have 'ko' in your names that must be it!" Reiko chuckled and Haruhi smiled as the baby took an interest in the newcomer.

Tamaki stood by and stated, "Your girlfriend has a knack for getting people to relax."

"She has a big heart."

"I see that. How'd she get you?"

"We went over this."

"I know but I'm curious, you know that."

Mori smirked, "I met her as an arranged marriage. She was kind to me, a stranger, and I couldn't believe that she was real."

The blond male nodded, "I know the feeling. You just want to hold onto them and never let them go but you can only do that once you marry them. Until then you have to sit idly by and suffer."

"Exactly."

Tamaki looked at Mori, "You haven't kissed her?"

"Just once...lightly."

"You need to do it better! Do you think I'm going to let you disgrace the Host Club? All those years there and you did it lightly and only once. Well this is Christmas Eve, my friend! You're going to do it right!"

"I can't hold back if I do it."

"You're going to force yourself to hold back because I'm sure she wants to do something too but you keep holding back so she does the same." Mori sighed and Tamaki shrugged, "It's up to you." He nodded while he added, "Good luck Mori."

He watched as Tamaki sauntered over to Mayu to talk with her, she laughed at his antics, and they all began to mingle together. Kaoru appeared next to Mori, "Take your time."

"I know but it's hard."

"Love is never easy." He nodded while the Hiitachin Twin patted his back and left his company to join the others, he eventually joined in the festivities, and he wore a small smile at her mannerisms towards his friends. She was at ease with all of them and even Kyoya was there; whom also seemed at ease. Mori intercepted her, he wrapped his arm around her waist, and kissed her head fondly. She smiled and wrapped her arm around his waist as well. Satoshi immediately stated that he wanted pictures, so he started to snap photos of everyone including Mori and Mayu.

When they moved towards the temples, Mayu removed her arm from his waist, and he did the same; it was this time that everyone took an interest as they never met a priestess before. Mayu took in a deep breath, bowed to the temple, then proceeded to enter the grounds. Her red eyes only saw what she needed, the others followed her, when she came upon the fountain in the middle, she stopped just inches from it, and bowed to it. She clapped her hands together, closed her eyes, and murmured something that the others were unable to hear. Mayu opened her eyes and smiled at the fountain just as snow began to fall from the sky, she looked up, Mori was able to see her profile, she was genuinely perplexed by the sudden change in weather, but a smile graced her lips; Kotoko giggled. The maiden turned to see the others and smiled at them while motioning for them to do their own thing. As they all walked towards the other side of the temple, her eyes were drawn to the fountain once more, and to the forest beyond as a light wind rustled.

"Something wrong?" asked Mori.

Mayu shook her head, "No Taka...I don't think so."

"Good." She smiled and she entwined her hand into his while he carried her market tote on his shoulder. They met up with the others who were making wishes, she smiled at them, he leaned down, and kissed her temple. "What are you going to wish for?"

"You should know that it's not going to be selfish."

"I know. You won't tell me?"

"Not a chance." He chuckled as it was their turn, he made his wish just like the others, and Mayu approached. She tossed in her yen, clapped her hands, and closed her eyes. Lady Amaterasu, no matter the shrine, you are my goddess... her thoughts trailed off so that she wouldn't say them aloud as she made her wish. When she finished, she clasped her hand around Takashi's once more, and they proceeded into the festival that was just down the hill. There were lanterns everywhere, stands, and all sorts of smells. "This is really new for me!" Mori pulled her close to him, she smiled, and continued to stay close to his side that night; although she didn't realize that Satoshi was also near her.

When the throng of people began to get too thick for her she felt a hand on her shoulder, she glanced up to see Satoshi. He wore a warm smile and said, "It'll be alright. I'm here with you too." Mayu smiled and thanked him, "Not a problem! You're my sister after all!" Satoshi grinned at her while she grinned in return, he leaned in, and said, "I saw the proposal before he went to meet you." She laughed, "I'm glad you guys got together."

"Me too because you're my brother and the Ishikawa Family has a little brother on the way too." Satoshi was ecstatic about it and she nodded, "Me too!" They laughed together, Mori glanced at them, happy to know that they got along so well. Once they traversed through the festival and had some food, they left the area. She let out a breath, happy to be in the open, the others looked at her, and she gave them an apologetic look. "I'm not used to those crowds of people. I've always been in the wide open areas so I'm a little anxious."

"It's okay," said Haruhi. Mayu smiled once more while they all looked at the lanterns but Mayu's attention was drawn upward to the stars. They were glittering brightly out there and she smiled before turning her gaze onto the festival down below. As the night wore down, everyone was taken home, Mori was dropped off with Mayu, they said their good nights to everyone, and she even received a hug from Satoshi. She laughed at him and the limo drove off, they entered her apartment, she let out a breath, and slipped off her shoes, and before she could go any further; Mori intercepted her.

"Hm?" She looked up at him, he took in a deep breath, and she asked, "Are you okay Taka?"

He smiled, "I'm fine as long as you're with me Mayu." Her eyes softened when he said her name and he leaned down, he pressed his lips to her satiny ones, and she tensed up but relaxed immediately after. Her heart was pounding and so was his but he felt her return that kiss. He broke it off after a few minutes and said, "I should go. It's not good for you if I stay."

Fingers gripped his kimono, "For once will you just trust me Taka?" His dark eyes looked into her ruby eyes, "I'll be fine. I have Belzeneff with me so you're not alone okay?" He smirked, kissed her once more, and felt her respond immediately after he initiated it. When he backed off, she smiled, "See? I'm a lot tougher than you think and if you try to do something that I'm not comfortable with then I'll just bite your shoulder."

A low chuckle emitted from his throat, "Alright Snowbelle."

"What happens tomorrow?"

"I introduce you to my parents."

"Oh good!"

He laughed while nuzzling her neck, "Let's get some sleep." She nodded but not before jumping up to give him a quick kiss before dashing through the apartment. He sighed, "Mayu..."