This is the second part! So here you go, I hope you enjoy it.
Summary: Tamaki turns the host club into sleek and chic but not everyone is down for the look.
Comfort From a Broken Mirror: Part 2
Haruhi met the upcoming hosting event with admittedly less enthusiasm. In all honesty, the only people really looking forward to it were Yuuki and Aido. Haruhi's suspicions had been confirmed, almost all of her, formerly Day class friends, had officially ostracized her. No one talked to her in between classes except for Yuuki and Yori. Zero remained aloof and Ichiru would tease her in passing. After giving their public apology at lunch, the copper set of twins refused to sit at the same table as the silver set, they even moved to the back of the classroom. However, unlike the other students who were not talking to her, they were making themselves their own group of outcasts each time they defended Haruhi against being called a crazy fan girl. So in the end, students kept the Hitachiins close by not openly talking bad about Haruhi and kept Haruhi away by saying ugly things behind the twins' backs. Even some of the boys were being nasty to her, while others plainly ignored her.
Zero found himself incredibly irritated by the whole thing, both by his part in accidentally turning the poor girl into an outcast and because there seemed to be nothing he could do to fix it. His first day back in class, he had given his own apology to Haruhi and after that had felt terrible being around her. Even worse when Ichiru would rub his face in it with his constant taunting.
Haruhi sat fidgeting with the ruby red hairclip Yuuki had put in her hair. Tamaki had decided to do a theme this week and had created a cocktail hour type event. Instead of wearing their uniforms, the Host club wore formal suits and sleek dresses.
Yori slapped Haruhi's hand away, she was wearing her uniform as she was not a member, but she and Yuuki had prepped and fretted over Haruhi's hair and dress all morning. They had talked her into a satin, ruby red dress, which was form fitting in the top with thin black straps that flowed down to the black sash just below her bust and tied into a bow on her back. The dress floated out from there, enhancing her small waist and petit frame. Kaname had given her beautiful black satin heels as a peace offering for last Sunday and at first she was wary on taking them. With everyone thinking that she was in the wrong, she wasn't sure if Kaname getting her a gift was the best idea. By this time Kaname knew all about the girl's pariah status and offered them as an apology for having to deal with such fanatic rumors. Yori had talked her into fixing her hair into a more feminine style and putting the pretty clip to hold her bangs out of her face. Unfortunately, Haruhi felt like it was sliding and she kept reaching up and touching to make sure it was still in place. That was probably the fourth time Yori had slapped her hand, she couldn't help noticing that each slap was a bit more boisterous than the last.
The shorthaired girl's eyes narrowed.
"Well if you keep messing with it, it really will fall out." the blonde girl defended tersely, her golden curls shaking with the added shake of her head. "Besides, watching you so closely gives me a reason to not have to focus on Hanabusa Aido winking at me," she jerked her head back in the boy's direction.
Aido sat in a beautiful designer suit, black on black with a classy, silk white tie. Even as Haruhi looked at him, he winked playfully. His brilliant blues eyes sparkling with enough vibrancy to over shadow the sun. The even-tempered girl rolled her eyes. Although, she had to admit the boy looked quite captivating.
"You know Yori-chan; I think you are the only girl in the whole world, who does not fall for the charms of the Night class."
She shrugged, "Sure they are physically appealing, they seem to know all the right words to sweep a girl off her feet, but I don't know… there is just something, something unsettling about them."
"Like the enigma of their celebrity," a voice muttered behind them. The girls turned to face a pair of sad violet eyes.
"Tamaki-senpai, you are in the Night class."
He frowned, "Yeah but that makes sense for me, I flirt, I talk about things that interest them, I give compliments and am courteous when receiving them. I have amazing good looks, not that they aren't all attractive, but I also have wonderful etiquette and charms that have been honed in the direction of pleasing young ladies. Even Aido-kun doesn't have that. They are just so cold and reserved, they snap at the smallest things."
"Tamaki-senpai?" Yori called sweetly, "Would you allow me to be your first customer today?" From beside Tamaki, Haruhi's eyebrows rose slightly, then she immediately started shaking her head in disapproval.
Tamaki, not seeing Haruhi, erupted in joy. "Oh of course I would make time for you my precious princess. Please, how about we sit over there. I hope you don't mind if I fix your tea. How do you like it?"
Haruhi pressed her fingers to her temples. This was probably not a good idea. She knew Yori intended to help, sort of feed his ego, only; Yori was not a flighty girl, her subdued reactions would only hurt the boy's pride even more. She remembered how unhappy Kyoya had been at the mention of her name yesterday during class changeover. If she could do that to the king of poker faces, she could only imagine what Tamaki was in store for. She thought about intercepting but it was too late now, Tamaki had already whisked them off to the other side of the room and the doors were opening.
Yet it wasn't guests who came through. Yuuki and the chairman were pushing two silver haired youths, quite forcefully, through the French doors. Just barely Haruhi heard the hushed promise the chairman made.
"If you both stay and be cordial, then I will excuse you from next Sunday, ok?"
With a huff, both young men straightened up, watching the chairman leave, as Yuuki slipped around them to start her patrol. In unison, the two looked at one another and the shifted to look out at the others in the room.
Haruhi gasped soundlessly. They stood as mirror images dressed in chic, heather gray suit vests over a cream-colored dress shirt, matching heather gray slacks and jackets, and polished black shoes. They even pulled on their black bowties in sync. The pale cream shirt contrasted strikingly with their pale violet eyes, making them that much more lively and mesmerizing, even as they glared out at everyone.
Kaname had insured that both boys would have suitable attire for the event and in impish fashion, had basically created identical outfits. It had taken all morning to even talk them into trying them on and then an epic battle to get them to the gala. Neither one could believe they had gotten sucked into this ridiculous predicament but there they stood. At least they had gotten out of at least one horrible Sunday.
Ichiru's eyes darted around, stopping to focus on the chuckles and whispers the Hitachiins were exchanging. His eyes narrowed, hadn't the chairman said that they too had to wear matching outfits? After finally giving into this spectacle, he had held onto that like a light at the end of the tunnel.
"Are you mocking me?" he demanded, taking a step in their direction. Zero glanced at the boys as they innocently shook their heads and shrugged their shoulders. They weren't really his concern, he was focused on finding Kaname, the real culprit.
He sat in his regal attire at the other end of the room, looking positively stunning. If Zero had been a Day class girl, he probably would have squealed and fainted. As it were, Zero stalked over toward his tormentor. Lately Kaname was becoming more and more childish, so much so that Zero was beginning to question his sanity. In hunter terms, and insane pureblood was grounds for termination. The silver haired boy smirked darkly at the thought, even though he knew it would never come to that. At least it made him feel a little better.
Kaname had been watching Yuuki give a run down to Tamaki and Aido, apparently they had gotten into a verbal scuffle from Aido boasting about how many girls he would see today. As Zero approached, a small smile graced the lips of the pureblood.
"What the hell do you think you are doing, Kuran?"
"What seems to be the problem now, Kiryuu-kun?" he asked in an exasperated tone not unlike what parents used towards their children.
As expected, Zero bristled even more. He growled in response. "Are you trying to make me attack you?" he asked frustrated. What could he really do? Too many humans to witness, too many nobles to jump in.
"Look Zero," Kaname interrupted, nodding his head in Ichiru's direction, "that is probably the truest expression I have seen on that boy's face since he got here."
The hunter followed his gaze to his brother, he was still standing close to the door. He looked so uncomfortable as he pulled once more on his bowtie. The protective fire in Zero surged up as he spun back on the pureblood. "Kuran, you leave him-"
"Careful Zero," Kaname cut in again, "you wouldn't want people to think you actually cared about Ichiru's feelings." He knew Zero didn't care what people thought, and he did care about his brother, but the light teasing would get Zero to see that he and Ichiru were a united front in this little embarrassment. Kaname had come to accept that the only way to get Zero back on track with Yuuki, was to take care of this rift that was his twin brother. As he watched the appalled emotion transcend through Zero's eyes he wondered if there was really in work for him to do.
Zero was about to say something else when a loud cry caught everyone's attention.
"Let go Kiryuu! Ow!" Hikaru cried.
Immediately the Ouran kids noticed that Kaoru was not in the room. Soon the loud, constant banging on the French doors that everyone had been absently trying to tune out made sense.
"Open the door! Open the door!" Kaoru's muffled voice was pleading on the other side. Ichiru had Hikaru pinned up against the door, using the boy's body to hold it shut, while smushing his face against the wood.
Even though Shizuka had never turned him into a vampire, there were perks to humans drinking pure vampire blood. If he really wanted to, he could probably crush Hikaru's skull right here and now. He mentally shook the thought, but that really wouldn't be good for anyone.
"Ichiru-kun, let go of him right now." Yuuki's voice was stern and authoritative as she placed a hand on the silver haired boy's arm. Zero was already standing beside her. He was somewhat conflicted though. He knew why Ichiru was reacting this way; Hikaru and Kaoru probably deserved it. He hated the idea of chastising his brother for defending himself. Still, this was a school and he was a member of the Disciplinary Committee.
Ichiru looked sideways at her. So annoying, he thought coldly. With a loud snort, he released the other boy, quickly stepping to the side to avoid the explosion of the double doors.
Kaoru burst through with gusto, unfortunately catching his brother in the crossfire. Hikaru yelped loudly and his hands came up to cover his face. By now all host members, except for the vampires, were crowded around the boy, hunched over in pain. The nobles looked back at Kaname, allowing only him to see the subtle shift as the red haze ghosted across their irises. Zero was the only vampire in close proximity and he took a faltering step back as the scent hit him. Hikaru was bleeding.
Ichiru held in a chuckle, looking over at his own twin to share in the glory. His expression altered quickly as he caught sight of Zero's face. Oh great. Zero shook his head trying to breath through his mouth. Calm down, he told himself, Kaname's blood was still fresh in his senses and he used it to ground himself. Ichiru realized he had been holding his breath waiting for that red tint to fade from his twin's eyes, he breathed out when there was not trace of it.
Zero straightened up, glancing over at the nobles to see how they were fairing. Of course, they were all fine, easily dealing with the small scent. It would always be harder for Zero to control his bloodlust; it was the curse of being an ex-human vampire. He grimaced at that fact, finding yet another reason to belittle himself. He was even more of animal than they were, even though he had once been human. As he focused back on Hikaru he caught Ichiru looking at him, he looked both worried over Zero state but there was also defiance to the set of his jaw that told Zero that Ichiru did not want to be chastised. He returned it with a wary look and nod before watching Hikaru finally put his hands down.
Sure enough, the boy was indeed bleeding. His nose was red and blood still trickled from his left nostril. His red, watery eyes turned an accusing glare on Ichiru.
"You busted my nose!"
Ichiru sneered, "No I think he did," he pointed to the other copper haired boy.
"Hikaru-kun, come on let's go to the infirmary." Yuuki tried to coax, she had to get the bleeding boy out of here. Hikaru jerked out of her grip.
"No. This is your fault, you-"
"Stop it." Zero commanded, keeping Yuuki in between him and Hikaru, "It was an accident." His voice was dismissive but he could tell that Hikaru wasn't quite ready to give up. "But if you would like the matter looked into, we can go to the chairman's office. I'm sure he will want to find the person at fault."
Honestly, it was the fault of all three in his book, and the chairman would see it the same. Still he couldn't help favoring Ichiru, not because he was his brother. You shouldn't mess with someone if you aren't prepared for the consequences, simple cause and effect. That was what explained the countless fights he had been in, with the nobles, with Kaname, and well just about everyone else.
The copper haired twins easily caught the message; sharing a flashback of 'stern chairman,' they nodded to one another in agreement. Both were just on the verge of shaking their heads "no" when Tamaki spoke up.
"I think we should, that type of unnecessary violence isn't acceptable in the Host club. I think we should discuss with the chairman, the proper behavior of a gentleman."
"Weren't you just fighting with Aido?" Kyoya asked casually, his focus more on writing something down in his notepad.
"That was different!" Tamaki cried, "We were only arguing with each other, I didn't physically attack him to prove my point." Yuuki rolled her eyes as she finally succeeded in coaxing Hikaru into the bathroom to wash his face, Kaoru followed behind, still looking quite guilty.
Kain did not miss the smirk on Aido' face. The nobles were all still sitting, watching the scene from a far. Kain snorted softly knowing his cousin was thinking how quick a defeat it would have been if Tamaki did try to attack him.
"Wait!" Aido suddenly jumped up, crossing the threshold to the group standing by the door, "What if Cross cancels the host club?" After all that was a consequence of a conflict like this. "Maybe we should just put this behind us," His voice persuaded.
"That's not fair. Why should Hikaru have to endure such terrible mannerisms by that guy, and have us do nothing to help him?" He pointed at Ichiru.
"He shouldn't have been messing with me." Ichiru shot back, crossing his arms. He was weak his whole young life, he wasn't going to disgrace Shizuka's gift by not defending himself.
"I think you should let it go Tamaki-senpai," Haruhi finally spoke up, "Hikaru is fine anyway." The copper haired boy had just stepped out of the bathroom, blood free.
Those deep purple eyes fell on the girl in disbelief. Haruhi was just trying to put the whole matter to rest but Tamaki took it as some sort of betrayal. "Hikaru is our friend, how can you be still after he was attacked by some meathead who can't take a little jibing?" We are always there for each other remember, his eyes seemed to add.
"That's enough," Zero clipped. Tamaki was getting on his nerves and that was the second time his little brother had been insulted. "The Day class students should already be on their way, go and get ready for them."
That seemed to ground the others and with an awkward pause, they finally separated. Ichiru followed behind Zero and took the chair beside him. His jaw was in a firm set again, and Zero gave a soft sigh.
Haruhi walked with Hikaru and Kaoru, "Hikaru-"
"I'm fine remember." he quipped, not even looking at her.
She scoffed, "You don't have to be like that. It was an accident."
"No it wasn't," Kyoya interrupted, although he didn't seem inflamed by the idea; instead, his voice was simple and frank. "Ichiru knew the door would hit Hikaru, that's why he moved."
"Not really helping," Haruhi said in an off-handed tone.
"It's not about sides, Haruhi. The fact is Ichiru was right. You guys can't just keep messing with people and not expect them to retaliate. Instead of being upset, take it as a lesson that every action should be well thought out."
"Shut up," Kaoru pouted.
"I didn't need you to step in." Ichiru finally said in a subdued tone.
"It is my job to keep the peace in the school."
"You know as well as I do that that is not why you did it. I don't need you to look out for me. I don't need you." Ichiru's voice was starting to sound desperate and confused, but it didn't seem like he was talking to Zero anymore. "I will not need you," he said softly.
Zero stayed silent, trying to figure out exactly what Ichiru meant. It seemed so much more than what just happened. A part of Zero was hurt by it and another slightly hopeful from Ichiru's tone. Maybe he would never need Zero but it sounded like he at least wanted him there. And Zero was beginning to realize that he wanted that too. He would never stop loving his brother, and if Ichiru wanted him than he would be there.
A moment later the first wave of guests came in, ooing and aweing over the sleek styles of the Host club. A petit girl for the 1st years shyly walked over to where the Kiryuu twins were sitting. She pushed her glasses up her small nose and awkwardly brushed back her bangs that had fallen out of the clip in her hair.
"You both look very handsome," she said barely above a whisper, looking down at her feet. "May a sit?" she asked finally looking up.
Zero nodded noncommittally. He really didn't want her to but seriously, they were members of this stupid club. He just barely heard Ichiru inhale, no doubt fixing to spew obscenities along with a straightforward "no." He shot the boy a look that implied just how unfortunate he thought that plan was. Ichiru almost choked on his breath and glared back at Zero. Fine! Instead, he gazed out in the room, avoiding the girl as she sat down across from them. In his irritated state, his eyes fell on the shorthaired girl in the red dress. She didn't have a guest yet and was looking incredibly uncomfortable as people walked by her.
It was clear that Haruhi was still being treated as if she had leprosy. Ichiru felt a little bad for her, remembering the good time he had had in town with her. He absently turned his attention to the girl sitting with him, still looking at Haruhi. She was talking about how handsome they looked in those suits, how nice it was that the host club could dress up, and blah blah blah. Zero was adding forced "thank you's" and whatnots. Ichiru could see that Haruhi's attention was starting to focus in on Zero and 'glasses girl' over here. Ichiru scoffed to himself, unintentionally catching the attention of the pair sitting with him. He shot them both an innocent look.
"My you two are hitting it off," he teased getting up; "Shall I go get us some tea and cake?" Anything to get away from you, Zero read in his twin's fake smile.
Ichiru's smile widened at the scowl on Zero's face.
Kaoru sat back as he watched some of the guests dote on Hikaru. His nose was still red and his top lip was slightly swollen. The girls took turns dabbing a cold rag on his face. Kaoru had no objections to the extra attention, instead his eye wandered to Tamaki. The boy was talking brightly with a 2nd year. He was definitely over it, no doubt he would apologize to Haruhi before the day was over. He was really such a push over. Kaoru on the other hand, was not. Though he had no reason to be mad at the shorthaired girl, he was very upset with that silver haired jerk.
Kyoya bent down to pick up his pen for the second time. He took a deep breath, trying to calm the fidgeting feeling Yori had just left him with. He already had a new customer but the effects that confounded girl had on his composure was unacceptable. As he looked up from grabbing his pen, he spotted Ichiru trying to balance a tray of tea and cake on one hand while using the other to try and separate his leg from Honey's death grip.
Ichiru couldn't hide the look of surprise when Honey suddenly dove for his left leg. This little kid was actually incredibly strong and he had had to step back to keep from falling over.
"Get off!" he whispered urgently. Geez what was with this kid? Honestly, he was really getting sick of these Ouran kids.
Mori was standing beside them now, looking at Ichiru with caution. This boy was far more rash than the other Kiryuu and he was sure he was going to have to catch Honey when he inevitably kicked him off.
"No," Honey's voice was unwavering. "I was gonna get that cake, give me it."
"Just get another." Ichiru said his voice catching a little wonder as the tall, silent boy zipped forward. Mori had already gone to the snack table and back, carrying two pieces of the same cake Ichiru had on his tray. See it wasn't so hard, Ichiru thought.
"No." Honey said again. He looked up at Ichiru with a strange glint in his eyes. "Or," he began, making Ichiru feel a little creeped out, "you can keep the cake and just give me Zero instead."
The silver haired boy stopped fighting for a minute, his mind trying to put together the strange truth.
"What?" His voice trembled slightly. That had not been what had almost come out of his mouth.
Honey sighed as if his request was obvious, "Give Zero back! First you take Zero and then my favorite cake, I bet you don't even like strawberry cake either."
Mori stepped forward, sensing Ichiru's pause. Now was the perfect time to yank Honey free.
"Mitsukuni, there is only one piece of blueberry pie left, if you don't hurry you won't even get to try it," he added to help grease the boy free.
Honey seemed to forget his proposition to Ichiru, leap-frogging over Mori's head and running back to the cakes.
The silver haired boy tried to straighten himself up, walking back to where he was sitting. He felt hot and the lump of ice in his stomach was making him nauseous. He set the tray down in front of the pair but did not sit. Instead, he looked out into the room, finding Haruhi, then Yuuki, Kaname, and Honey. All these people cared about his brother, but none of them believed that he did.
"Ichiru?" Zero asked concerned. The other boy was still standing up and his face looked like the walls were closing in on him.
"Ichiru?" Zero called again, his voice a little louder. He was about to stand up but Ichiru finally looked back at him, freezing Zero in his place.
"Why is it always you?" His voice was soft and filled with disbelieving wonder.
Zero shook his head, what the hell was he talking about? Please Ichiru not two scenes in one day…
"I don't know what you are talking about. Sit down!" Zero said in a flustered whisper.
"No," Ichiru said shaking his head; he looked a bit hysterical as he finally turned his attention on the girl sitting with them. "You. Why did you come over here? Did you come for Zero or for me?"
"Stop it." Zero pleaded.
Ichiru ignored him. "Answer."
The girl's mouth gaped, certain that this was a very dangerous question.
Luckily Ichiru didn't wait, "I don't care about this stupid hosting, the chairman can not make me join a club," he concluded, turning to leave.
Zero finally stood up. Feeling like this was the end of so much more than just Ichiru hosting. He felt like if he didn't do something, he would finally lose the last of his family. And no matter what happened, the mistakes of the past, the hatred and pain and confusion, no matter what, he just couldn't let him go.
He followed him into the foyer of the building, just out of site of the others. Zero reached out to grab hold of his arm and keep him from fleeing the building. Ichiru turned swiftly in his brother's grip, wrapping into Zero to knock him off balance. The hunter had expected it and spread his legs to counter the momentum. They were now face to face, both glaring.
"Dammit Ichiru, stop." the ex-human gruffed.
Ichiru's anger gave way to his confusion, leaving behind an honestly lost looking individual. He wanted to scream and yell and hit and punch free of Zero, but he also wanted to cry and let Zero hold him, and not have him hate him for being so weak. He wanted him to not feel burdened again for Ichiru having to lean on him, like he did in the past.
"Zero please. I- I don't need you to caudle me. I'm just going back to the room, geez." he lied, trying to get back some of his haughty tone.
Zero observed the boy with caution, feeling utterly perplexed by his mood swings. He was certain that if he asked Ichiru to promise he was going back he would definitely become angry again. He needed to have a bit more tact.
"The Disciplinary committee is to escort every student from this building on host days," he said pathetically letting go of Ichiru.
He could tell his brother wasn't fooled. "Give me a break, Zero. I'm not gonna wonder around in this monkey uniform." he said gesturing to his outfit. "Go back inside, I already told you I don't need you to hold my hand."
The hunter stood still, reluctant to let him out of his sight. Nevertheless, it was clear; Ichiru was not going to let Zero go with him. With a last ditch effort he gave him a soft pat on the back, "Then I will see you later."
Ichiru snorted loudly, "Go away already." But he still managed a reassuring nod, enough to get Zero to finally go back into the gala.
After he left, Ichiru's confident stance slipped away. He ran a hand through his hair then breathed out before heading out the door. He was barely down the stairs when he saw the chairman coming up over the hill in the direction of the gala. Ichiru ducked down by a banister hiding himself. If the chairman saw him now he would force the boy back inside. Still ducking the boy reclaimed the steps, skating around the side of the building to where the veranda hung over the lake.
Haruhi tucked back a piece of hair as she poured a cup of tea for her first customer. Or at least what she had thought was a customer.
"No that's ok I don't want any," the boy sitting across from her replied softly.
Haruhi pulled the teapot up, awkwardly holding it for a moment, "Oh," she said sheepishly as she set it down.
"I feel bad for you Haruhi-chan and all the heat you have taken over this whole Kaname thing." the boy said leaning forward to keep others from over hearing, "the truth is the other Day class students made a pact that no one would sit with you today. But like I said, I feel terrible, you have always been so nice. So I just wanted to tell you, if you would just apologize to Kaname-senpai, and then I'm sure everyone will stop being mean to you."
Haruhi sat silent, listening to the boy speak. A pact?
"Anyway," the boy said looking around him, "I gotta go, see you in class Haruhi-chan."
The girl was mute as she nodded to the boy. That's why she didn't have any customers. She sighed as she leaned her chin in her hand.
"Haruhi?" a familiar voice called behind her.
"Kyoya-senpai," she answered, watching as the boy sat down.
"You know I can't help but notice that you haven't had any customers so far." He opened, crossing his legs as he considered her. "I heard that you were having a hard time after what happened last Sunday, but I had no idea it was to this extent."
"It's fine senpai, I'm sure it will blow over soon," she said uncertainly.
"Well I'm sure a little damage control wouldn't hurt, you know, to try and help it along." He offered, resting his chin on his clasped hands.
"Do you want me to apologize to Kaname-senpai?'
"It's a good start. But I thinks it's a little more than that. How about you take a break? Perhaps a bit of fresh air would give you a chance to collect yourself and come up with a strategy." he motioned in the direction of the veranda.
Haruhi sighed again, rolling her eyes. But in truth, she didn't mind getting a chance to step out and was a little more than ready to take the offer.
"Alright," she said feigning annoyance.
Outside on the veranda, the shorthaired girl took a deep breath of the chilly air. Compared to the gala, it was kind of cold out here, she considered going back in for her shawl, but ultimately decided against it.
The veranda covered a huge amount of space, up only six feet from the ground on top of solid white limestone. It looked out to the lake and actually slightly hung over it, to the right were stairs that led down to a beach area. That was where the twins had carried her off last week and she scrunched her nose in irritation.
Haruhi walked out to the ledge and breathed in the sweet scent of the horsetail grass growing along the side of the lake. As she looked down at the water, trying to catch a glimpse of a fish swimming by, a loud splashing noise was heard on her right. She examined the area finding where the water was rippling out from the impact. Those black satin heels clicked against the smooth stone as she followed along the rail, hoping to see an over-excited fish flopping about near the surface.
She gasped softly as a huge rock came crashing into the water, slapping hard and flinging water up all the way to the veranda, splashing out just in front of her path. It was then that she heard the ragged breathing. The small girl leaned over the rail, just underneath her, where the huge rock had come from.
There, perched on a boulder just slightly under the lip of the balcony, sat Ichiru. His head was buried in his pulled up knees and he was breathing harshly as is he had just got done crying.
Ichiru was angry, he was beyond angry, he was completely upset. Why did he let that little idiot get to him like that? All of those idiots! Those twin idiots, the little chibi that attacked him, those two idiots running this whole idiotic thing! Hosting? Seriously? Since when did they all become 1950s housewives? And Zero, that stupid idiot! Why couldn't he just leave him alone? Why did he always look at him like that, like he was so fragile and weak? He tried everything to get him to stop, but even when Zero glared at him or they fought, that look was always there. Always taunting him with the weakness he could never seem to escape.
He was so tired, and confused. He missed Shizuka, only she could take him away from all this. Why did she leave him here? Why did she let herself be killed?
"Ichiru-kun?" Haruhi's soft voice echoed in the small space. The balcony had turned the spot into a little cave, the light of sun reflecting against the water danced along the stonewall.
Ichiru jerked, peaking up through his bangs and glaring at the soft expression of the girl standing in front of him.
Haruhi's heart thumped harshly as she saw the unhidden anger and hurt, burning from those reddened eyes. The boy's pale violet eyes were so dark, they almost looked black, a further illustration his disposition.
He groaned in frustration, hand coming up to wipe his face. He didn't even bother to hide how upset he was. Why bother?
"Why do you keep popping up?" he asked bitterly, sniffing as he looked out over the lake.
"I could ask you the same thing." Haruhi tried lightly.
The silver haired boy sneered in response. "Do I look like I'm in the mood to entertain you silly attempts at amusement?" He asked irritated.
Her expression sobered up, "Sorry," she said honestly, "I-"
"Aren't you supposed to be up there hosting? What the heck are you doing down here?' he demanded, dropping his legs down to sit cross-legged on the boulder. He looked quite imposing glaring at her from atop that rock.
"Oh," Haruhi sighed, faking a smile, "Kyoya-senpai kicked me out. I wasn't getting any customers."
Ichiru snorted, "What's it to him?" He didn't like people who imposed their will like that. Even as a pureblood, Shizuka never did that to him.
Haruhi shrugged. She could tell Ichiru already saw her friend in a bad light. It wouldn't do any good to explain how everything Kyoya did, he ran like a business. Ichiru didn't seem like one for big business, corporate life. She spied a smaller rock to Ichiru's left, cattycornered in front. She tried to make her movements as graceful as possible as her heels sunk into the moist sand. She sat facing out to the lake, looking it over dreamily.
"Are you staying?" Ichiru asked in an openly vexed tone.
Again she shrugged, "He's not going to let me go back in just yet."
Ichiru rolled his eyes, becoming slightly antsy.
Haruhi was still staring off; she sighed and tilted her head. After a moment, she hunched forward on her knees, propping her head in her hands. Ichiru watched her easily from his position; her rock was just a bit in front of him, easily in his line of vision. She had seemed completely at ease, even when he glared or talked harshly to her. Absently he hoped she wasn't becoming as dimwitted as the rest of the Cross Academy girls. Honestly, was there something in the water?
"Chibi-tan," he said scandalized, "Don't you think you are being very rude right now? How could assume that I wouldn't mind if you stayed down here with me? Does this look like a place I would go to-… Are you laughing?" His voice rose indignantly.
Haruhi's wide grin sobered quickly, "No, no."
"Then why were you smiling like that?"
"Nothing. It's just; it's interesting that you and Zero seem to tease in the same way." She explained, recalling Zero calling her 'Chibi-tan.' This was the second time Ichiru had called her that.
Ichiru huffed, glaring out at the bright water. "Why does everyone feel the need to compare twins? Seriously it is so stupid."
Haruhi craned her neck as she looked back at the boy feeling a little guilty. She knew that Hikaru and Kaoru felt the same way, that's why they purposely made it hard to tell the two apart. It was true though, what he said, even now as she looked a him, she couldn't stop herself from thinking of that same face, wearing a loopy grin and flushed cheeks.
She sighed, running her hand through the ends of her short hair and trying to come up with something to say. "I don't think it is just a twin thing," she commented, averting her eyes as those violet ones turned upon her. "I think it's more because he is your brother, growing up in the same environment, same rules, people just wonder about the outcome. Like seeing if you can solve a puzzle the same way you did the first time. Maybe it's a little more noticeable for twins, experiencing it at the same time, but even if you weren't identical, people would probably still compare you." She reasoned.
Ichiru's hard-set jaw and wrinkled brow did not change, but his eyes shown how he weighed the thought. Well if they weren't identical, he would have actually stood a chance being compared to Zero.
"Are you speaking from experience?' he asked sarcastically, deciding to be defensive.
This time she did look at him, a stunned look on her face. For a moment, she was complete dumbfounded, kicking at her mind to get it to start back up again. She was an only child; her mother had passed away before having any other children. Naturally, Haruhi had always been curious about what it would have been like to have a bother or sister. Perhaps that's why she paid so much attention to sibling relationships.
Ichiru watched her face, realizing his mistake. He closed his eyes when she looked away, trying to breathe evenly. Yes, she was annoying him right now, but he generally liked Haruhi and he felt completely awful. He tried to imagine life as an only child. For some reason the thought had a strange effect on him. His hand came up to rub on the ache in his chest. With all the years apart, all the hatred and anger, the fights, he was hit by a painful realization that he couldn't handle it if something were to happen to Zero. In the end, he was all that was left, the last person who would look at him.
"I'm sorry," he said, his voice uncharacteristically soft.
"Oh no it's alright." Haruhi lied, hugging herself. It was starting to get really cold under here.
They sat in silence for a while, watching the breeze rush through the grass around the lake, sending that sweet scent out in every direction. It was so bright and warm looking out there, beyond their little cave, their own personal cloud.
Haruhi sighed again, rubbing her bare arms. She titled back to glance in Ichiru's direction. He had dropped his right knee down, leaning to the side on the other, elbow resting on his knee and his head nuzzled in the crook of his arm. He looked both more open and withdrawn, his eyes peaking out above his arm. He felt her staring at him. This time she did not look away as an inquisitive looking boy with silver hair raised his head slightly and looked back. His eyes gave her a once over before speaking.
"So, what's with you and Zero? Had a fight already? Are you trying to get points hanging out with me, cause, I got to tell you, you will probably get more out of clinging to Yuuki." He was not really trying to be bitter, just curious. He hadn't seen them talk all week and after seeing them cuddled up in Zero's bed, he couldn't deny his curiosity in the whole matter.
Haruhi looked a little put out.
"It's really not like that. He had been sick all week and I just went to check on him. He was all hopped up on medication and then it started raining…"
"You know he was out again this past week. If it was no big deal, then why didn't you come to check on him again?" He asked slyly.
She didn't answer. What could she say? Zero did tell her to stay out of it, and if she tried to explain that to Ichiru… She could just hear him already teasing her about getting in a 'tiff' and on and on. Everyday here at Cross Academy was proving that silence was the lesser of the two evils.
Ichiru smirked silently behind her. It wasn't as if he didn't know about the rumors going around about Haruhi being yelled at by Zero, He had actually been there to see her stand up to Kaname.
She hugged herself tighter, feeling slightly frustrated. Haruhi jumped when she felt to soft velvet touch her shoulders. Ichiru had taken off his suit jacket. He had known she had been cold since she came down here, only now she was starting to tremble.
The inside was warm from Ichiru's body heat and Haruhi thanked him softly as she put her arms through the sleeves. Her hand stopped long before the opening and the jacket was just an inch shorter than her dress as she stood up to pull it close around her.
"You should keep it," Ichiru said offhandedly as he watched her, it's not like he was ever going to wear it again. "It probably cost more than the Academy makes in per month." He said, visibly sneering at Kaname's wealth.
Haruhi's eyes widened as she looked down at the jacket wrapped around her. "Why would anyone pay so much for a suit?" She asked disbelievingly.
"Because they can and do enjoy flaunting all the ways they are superior to others."
"You didn't buy this?"
"No!" Ichiru said, insulted. "Kaname Kuran was afraid Zero and I didn't have 'appropriate evening attire,'" He explained, quoting the pureblood.
Haruhi shrugged. She was just about to tell him that Tamaki bought this dress and about a hundred others to try just for this one event, when she heard someone shouting her name.
"I told Kyoya it was cold out here," Tamaki pouted, voice a little frantic as he spoke to his companion.
Aido shrugged and gave a deploring nod. Honestly, sometimes Tamaki was more dramatic than he was, especially when it came to that Fujioka girl.
Zero, who had came with the pair in Yuuki's place, snorted softly. Tamaki had been babbling about how shameful it was for Kyoya to make Haruhi come outside in this weather since they stepped outside. And although he had to admit that there was a chill in the air, the boy was just being ridiculous.
The pair emerged from under the veranda, Haruhi following behind Ichiru. She was trying desperately to balance on her tiptoes to keep the heels from sinking into the sand. Unfortunately, it was only making her balance worse as she also had to keep from falling into the lake. She was little surprised when Ichiru stopped and took her hand, placing it in the crook of his arm. She smiled shyly at his silent support, using him as an anchor.
They came up the stairs to see the trio looking around for them. Tamaki was the first to notice them and he ran forward, stopping short when he saw their interlinked arms.
Once at the stop of the stairs, Ichiru dropped his arm, allowing Haruhi to stand on her own. His attention was on his twin, he hadn't planned on running into Zero so soon, he wasn't sure he was prepared for it.
"Tamaki-senpai," she greeted, unsure of what to say to the distraught look on his face.
"Haruhi, what were you doing? I came out to check on you and I couldn't find you." Tamaki explained his voice getting softer as he spoke, looking her over.
"Well I saw Ichiru under the veranda, we were just talking."
Tamaki regarded the silver haired boy beside her, then looked back at Aido. "I told you it was too cold out here," he babbled on.
"I'm fine, Tamaki-senpai-" Haruhi tried to say.
"Then why are you wearing his jacket?" he asked, turning on the girl quickly, "and how come you didn't hear me calling you a while ago? Are you sure you are alright?" He was bordering on hysterical.
Ichiru snorted in irritation. This guy was absolutely insane. "Why is that any of your business? Are you her dad?" he asked rhetorically, crossing his arms in front of him.
"As a matter of fact-"
"Senpai," Haruhi called through her teeth.
Zero wasn't paying attention to the conversation. His violet eyes ran over the suit coat Haruhi was wearing. Her hand was peeking out from where she pushed up the sleeve, small fingers fiddling with a button. It was weird to see her in Ichiru's jacket, the one identical to his own. As he forced himself to look away, his natural hunter instincts had him absently studying their body language. Although it looked as though Ichiru was uninterested and annoyed by Tamaki trying to chastise he and Haruhi, he stood slightly in front of the girl as he pale eyes glared back at Tamaki. It was clear that something had changed and his brother was prepared to step in for this girl. The feeling that came with that clarity was utter confusion.
"Look, we should all just go back inside. Aido-senpai you especially, they are probably in frenzy because of your absence." she continued, trying to coax them all in the direction of the door. She looked at the boy next to her, it was clear that he was closing up again and she sighed inwardly.
"C'mon," she said softly, placing a hand on Ichiru's arm to push him forward.
Ichiru looked down at her, smiling mischievously, "I'm not going in. I saw the chairman heading this way earlier. Since he already knows I'm not participating I think I will just skip the rest too."
"But-"
"Haruhi-tan," he interrupted, tilting his head mockingly, "Do I look like I want to go in there and listen to annoying girls, especially when I don't have to?
Haruhi clicked her tongue, "Fine."
She turned to follow Tamaki in, giving Zero a slight nod as she passed by him.
"Ichiru?" Zero asked, just as everyone else was inside.
He watched his little brother's jaw set before he looked up to meet his eyes. He swallowed when he saw the defiance in his eyes, "I thought you were going back to the room," he said, finding nothing else to say.
"Why do you care where I go Zero? Why do you care at all?" Ichiru confronted.
"Because," Zero said defensively.
Ichiru let out a huge breath through his nose, curling his fingers in his hair. "I already told you I didn't hate you. You don't have to keep trying to win me over. You don't need me to like you anyway. Not when you have everyone by your side." His voice was soft and Zero's soul echoed with that broken spirit.
Zero stepped forward, feeling like his twin was about to bolt. "What the hell are you talking about?"
He had to run to catch him by the arm as sure enough Ichiru growled and turned to flee.
"Let me go." he demanded, fighting against him.
"No, please stop. Talk to me Ichiru, I don't understand."
"Just let me go already," he cried, yanking free of his grip. He spun around, "Why are you always trying to tell me what to do?" He made it halfway down the stairs before Zero's grip was on his arm again. He was holding tighter now, finally becoming irritated.
"Because you are my brother that's why," he answered honestly, "You say everyone is on my side? No one is on yours? That's because you won't let me on yours."
"Why would you want to be on my side?' he pleaded hysterically, yanking free and throwing a punch.
Zero caught it but the force caused him to take a step back on the stairs to keep from falling backwards on them. Ichiru bore down on him, his position putting him at an angle above Zero.
"It's like I said," Zero grunted, looking up at Ichiru. "You are my brother dammit!" He forced himself up, pushing Ichiru down the rest of the stairs and turning him in his grip so that his arms came up to hold him in a chokehold.
"Family?" Ichiru scoffed, trying to regain his footing in the shifting sand, "you of all people should understand that that means nothing." He bit out, elbowing Zero in the side and forcing him to let go.
He tried to run again and in a last ditch effort Zero lunged for him, knocking them both to the ground. In a split second he had his younger twin spun around and used his knees to pin the boy's elbows down. It was the best way to hold him still and make him listen. Everything had been messed up for so long, in one night he had lost everything. Even if Ichiru was somewhat at fault, Shizuka was coming for them anyway. She had played on the emotions of a confused and hurting little boy, using him to deal a more efficient blow.
Zero breathed deeply, bracing himself to finally admit what he had always known about that night. "Because in the end, you were by my side. I heard you ask Shizuka to spare me and I know you never intended for her to bite me," Zero was shaking as he spoke. In truth, he probably could not have held Ichiru still in his state. But Ichiru was shaking too. "You are all I have left, and no matter what you do, I can never hate you."
Tears welled in Ichiru's eyes. "I will not apologize for going with Shizuka, or even our parents, they couldn't care less about me, except to say I was constantly dragging you down." He squirmed a little trying to hide the tears as they escaped down his face. There was no use. "But Zero, I am sorry for how much you have suffered. I was angry and jealous and I just-" he shuddered as a sob tried to escape from him, his eyes clenched shut.
Zero eyes stung as he released him and Ichiru scrambled away, as if that particular spot on the ground was on top of a fire. He held his knees to him as he looked up at his brother, who was still kneeling a few feet away.
"'Ichiru? Zero?" A voice called from up on the veranda. Haruhi stood by to door, Ichiru's jacket draped over her arm. Kyoya had her demoted to a server for today, making her get drinks and cakes for everyone else. Of course, after she returned Ichiru's jacket.
The twins stared at each other for a moment. Ichiru stood first but Zero was right behind him, stepping in front of his twin, "You don't have to go up there, I can take care of it." He offered.
Ichiru actually smiled at him, shaking his head, "No it's fine. It's just Haruhi," the boy shrugged, walking past Zero.
Author note: (Doesn't necessarily pertain to the story) There you have it! So like I said last chapter I will be on vacation for a few weeks so I probably won't update for a little while. But don't worry ok, I am going to take my notebook with me so I will be working, just won't be able to post. Nothing will keep me from my fanfiction! lol Wish me luck and thank you for reading and liking my story!