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.

11. Ribbons, Mistletoe, and Snowbelles

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

Chapter 11 - Ribbons, Mistletoe, and Snowbelles

The following day, Mayu was sure to dress the same, curled hair, same make-up, and the same sun barrette. She was anxious but quickly packed the few boxes in her market tote, they were gifts for Mori, Satoshi, and his parents. She knew that what she had gotten would help as she had asked Mitsukuni, their gifts were already mailed to them as were the others. Mayu didn't have much finances to spare but what she did was send out specialized tea for the women and for the men, it was all she could do along with a few cookies except for Mitsukuni, he received some sparring gloves as she was able to get his size from Reiko and her black magic friend received a box of mint and candy cane flavored tea along with candy cane cookies. Mayu also made sure to give a box of tea to Ranka as well as cookies, Umehito received a giant box of marshmallow Belzeneffs for his own morning coffee when he couldn't come to Chateau Bunny. She had the market tote on her shoulder as she exited the limo, the Morinozuka home was large, and she felt small in comparison.

"It's okay." His reassuring words made her nod until she heard the other familiar voice of the younger Morinozuka.

"MAYU!" She laughed as he ran out to greet her, she hugged him, and he returned it. "You came! I'm so glad! Come on, you can see Pome and Piyo!"

"Okay!" Immediately she was dragged away by the younger brother and Mori only smiled at them while he went to inform his parents that he had brought a guest for them to meet. When the pair were alone, Satoshi looked at her bag, "I have gifts but I'm not giving it to you yet!" He laughed as they reached the area where the chick and tanuki were housed. She sat down and held out her hand to Pome, he approached cautiously but she quietly said, "I'm Mayu. I'm a friend and servant to Lady Amaterasu." He sniffed her hand, she slowly reached up to pet his head, and he happily grunted. The tanuki hopped into her lap, she smiled, and began to stroke his fur. "You're very cute Pome but where's your friend Piyo?" On cue, there was a chicken on the top of her head, she looked up, and giggled, "There you are! Hi there Piyo? How are you?" The chicken chirped and she couldn't help but laugh, "I'm happy to meet you too! Satoshi told me about you two. He said that you are the bravest and smartest chick and tanuki ever!" Both chirped and grunted as she chuckled and Satoshi was grinning at her as the animals took a liking to Mayu.

"They really like you Mayu."

"I'm glad because I like them too. I consider them family."

"Me too. They're my family and now your family."

"But your brother and I are not married."

"Doesn't matter what my parents say. You're my sister Mayu."

She smiled warmly, "I told Reiko the same thing and I believe it with my heart."

Satoshi grinned, "By the way, Taka told me about how you bit another co-worker." She nodded, "That's awesome! So, if you want, we can watch that movie tonight. We have it."

"Oh that would be so wonderful! If it's alright with your parents if not it will have to be another time since I don't have a television."

"Really? I'll just bring my laptop over and we can watch at your place!"

"That's great! I haven't seen a movie in ages!"

He laughed and she grinned at him while Mori watched them from inside, the servants had begun to gossip about the white haired maiden sitting in the gardens with Pome and Piyo. However a gruff voice spoke up, "Satoshi, I told you no girlfriends."

Mayu smiled, she got up, turned around, and heard the man gasp, "Greetings once more Mister Morinozuka. I'm sorry to intrude unannounced but it was the wish of Taka and Satoshi wanted me to meet Piyo and Pome." She was still holding the tanuki to her chest while the chicken balanced on her head, "If it's a bad time, we can reschedule."

His eyes softened, "It's not necessary Mayu. Come in!" She nodded and looked at the animals she was holding, "They can come too." Mayu smiled, bowed to him, and followed him inside, "It's good to see you again especially outside of the estate."

"I know, big surprise right?"

"Yes very. But the proposal was cancelled so why are you here?"

"The proposal was cancelled because my mother envies my grandmother and myself. It was not my fault but perhaps hitting my sisters in front of the Oshiro Twins was partly to blame." He laughed while she continued, "So I've been renounced from financials but I have a job and one that I'm good at. Although my tea is going to take time build."

"I see well tell me all about it." She explained to him everything that had occurred over the past few months, excluding some personal time with Mori but she was sure to tell him that they had been seeing each other. He nodded, "Do you have a place to live?"

"Yes, where do you think Taka's been disappearing to?"

He chuckled quietly, "Always charming Mayu." She shrugged, "And still so modest. Do you still pray to her?"

"I may not be at the estate any more but I am always a loyal servant to her Ladyship."

"Very good. But your hair? It was so long and beautiful."

"Yes well when a servant leaves her temple then she must cut her hair, although it's an old law, I abide by it. It's gotten longer though."

"Yeah..but I liked it long." He ran a hand through her curls and she stated that Taka did the same thing. He laughed, "He takes after me while Satoshi takes after his mother." She chuckled and said that so did Satoshi, "You're quite right! He does sometimes." Then she asked about his wife, "She's visiting her family for the holidays but will return very shortly. Would you like to come over again?"

"I would love to unless you'd like to come to an Ishikawa Family Reunion?"

His eyes twinkled, "Now THAT sounds like a lot of fun. I think we will!"

She laughed, "Good! My workmates and the others that Taka is friends with are coming to my family's Christmas Party tomorrow, it'll be fun for sure. They're my friends too but you know who they are." He nodded, "I also feel that I should tell you that I work at Chateau Bunny." He nodded, "It's the one place that I can make a lot of money with very little work and it's pretty fun too. Taka comes every day." He nodded once more, "I may not be the ideal candidate to be considered into your family because of where I work but I guarantee that I haven't changed since the first time you met me."

"That's not true Mayu. You are far more independent, strong, and kinder than then because you were able to stand on your own even though you never set foot outside of the estate before. You're able to adapt to your situation even if it's out of your realm of comfort. That's something to be admired by any prospective daughter-in-law."

"If he hadn't given me his phone, I don't think I would have been able to contact him."

"You would have found a way wouldn't you?"

Her eyes twinkled and so did his, "Of course I would! I considered him a very dear friend the moment that he helped with my rosehip bush. Since then we've only grown closer. I do hope that I didn't over step some boundary with your family Mister Morinozuka."

"Nonsense! And call me Akira! Or...if you prefer," his voice dropped lower, "you can call me dad." She looked at him stunned and he laughed. "But that's only when he's ready."

"Well I consider Satoshi my brother so I can consider you my second father," she whispered. Akira laughed and patted her on the shoulder and she grinned. "What about your wife?"

"Oh? Yuna? I'm sure she'll love to have you call her mother too. She's always wanted a daughter," came his quiet tone.

"Alright then." They returned to normal as they entered the den area, he motioned for her to take a seat, she did, then Takashi and Satoshi entered. Mori noticed Pome and Piyo, she looked up at him, "They didn't want to leave me so I brought them and Akira said it was okay." The older son looked at his father and raised an eyebrow, the male laughed, while she smiled, and Mori turned to her.

"I'm glad that they like you."

"Me too."

Akira smiled, "Well, we wanted you two to originally date before you moved in and until Yuna gets back we can't do anything but I do look forward to your reunion, it's going to be so much fun. Are the Haninozukas coming as well?"

Mayu grinned, "I would never leave them out of something so fun!"

He laughed, "Very good! So why did you come?"

"Taka wanted me to meet you officially so here I am. He kept it a secret too." Mori leaned over and kissed her head fondly, "But I don't mind. It's a good surprise and I have a secret too." She pulled her bag up, reached in, and removed the four boxes. "The yellow is for Satoshi, the blue for Taka, the red one is for you and your wife Akira."

They took each one respectively and Takashi smiled, "Thank you Snowbelle."

"You're welcome Taka."

Satoshi stated, "Thanks so much sis!"

"You're welcome bro!" He laughed, Akira smiled, and watched as Satoshi opened his gift, he was in awe of it, "I hope you like it." He nodded fervently as he pulled out the wood lacquer and protectant along with a special cloth, he glanced at her quizzically. "Mitsukuni told me that you use a wooden staff so I thought you could use something to help keep it in tip top shape!" He immediately darted to her and hugged her tightly, "You're welcome!"

"Thank you!"

He took his seat once more while Akira opened his, he looked at the special box, inside was a various assortment of tea bags, "I know how much you and your wife liked my tea so I brought out a secret stash that I had from the estate along with some new varieties. This should last you through the winter if you use it every day. Each bag makes four cups."

The father of the Morinozuka siblings smiled warmly, "This is a wonderful gift. Thank you so much Mayu. You're very thoughtful."

She returned that warm smile, "I even included instructions for steeping times and for the smoothie teas if you wanted to turn them into one."

"Oh, I know Yuna's just going to love this!"

"Thank you."

He nodded while they turned to Mori, he opened his gift, and stared at his new gloves, "Mitsukuni told me that you have a few tournaments coming up and he helped me find the best ones."

Dark eyes locked with those ruby ones, "Thank you Snowbelle." She nodded while he reached into his pocket, "I have something for you as well." She became perplexed and interested all at once, she watched as he pulled out a small box, "Here you are. I promised you that I would find a way to show that you're mine."

Mayu took the wrapping off carefully, then pulled out the small box, she lifted it, and it opened with a slight creaking noise. Her eyes widened, there was moisture at the corners, he leaned over, and dabbed at the corners gently with his thumb. She couldn't help it but she leaned over and hugged him as tight as she could while he patted her back. Mayu removed the small piece of jewelry, it was a gold necklace, the chain was delicate but strong, and the charm was a small single bell with a 'T.M.' engraved on it. "I love it Taka." He nodded, he took the necklace from her, she turned around, and he placed it around her neck. When he was done, she held the tiny bell, "I love it so much!" He nodded once more while she hugged him and Akira was grinning the same way that Satoshi was.

When they parted, the father asked, "When is your lease up Mayu?"

"I signed a one year lease. I'll feel terrible if I break it early."

"Alright well let me discuss this with Yuna and we'll see if we can't do something. By the way, do you know someone named Amara Jasuto?"

"Yes, she's a co-worker of mine..."

"Don't worry, Takashi explained it to me. I was rather stunned, I didn't know that you could get that angry."

"She insulted me and we all have a chained beast inside. Mine tends to get a little more free than others."

He laughed, "What's your beast Mayu?"

"A wolf."

"Ah! That's the perfect animal for you! It's alright, the problems with her are dealt with. She shouldn't bother you any more at work." Mayu thanked him, "No need. So...are you excited for your little brother?"

She nodded, "Yes I am! You know I only have sisters so I'm very excited!"

Akira laughed, "I see well Takashi has told me what will happen if he turns out like you. If you need anything at all, know that we're here to help you. I consider you family, as far as I'm concerned that proposal still stands true since your father sent it to us but your mother cancelled it."

"Oh? So my father has to cancel it?"

"Yes." There was that mischievous glint in Akira's eyes that she recognized from Kairi, Mayu laughed, and the man grinned. "So you see, you're still Takashi's proposal and the fact that you two get along so well only makes me happy. Besides, when I told Yuna that we got a cancellation she seemed so angry. I actually had to put on my training gloves for her to box." Mayu laughed and said that Satoshi takes after Yuna, "Yes I suppose he does. So do you know martial arts?" Mayu laughed but shook her head, "Well I'm sure Yuna would love to teach you to box! It's so much fun and easier to learn than basic martial arts. " Mayu laughed even more while Pome nuzzled her hand, she stroked his fur while Piyo took a seat next to her, she used her other hand to stroke his feathers. "They really like you." She nodded, "That's good because if they didn't you would need to find a way to make them like you or find someone else."

"Akira, I would try to make them understand that I'm their friend. I would never find any one else, I feel that Taka's the one for me."

"Good. How is Lady Amaterasu?"

"Shining bright as always but you needn't ask me. Just look to the sky in the daylight." He hooted laughter and she smiled, "My lady is always shining bright somewhere and in someone's heart. I always say my prayers to her so that those I care about are blessed and protected with her rays of light."

"You are very kind Mayu." She shrugged, "Still modest!"

"Always Akira. One can alter one's way but never change them."

"Very wise Mayu." She inclined her head as the front door was closed, Akira looked over, and smiled, "In here honey." Mori's mother entered, she paused in her steps as she spotted Mayu sitting there, the maiden stood up with Pome in her arms, she bowed to her, and took her seat once more. "Mori wanted to finally bring home his girlfriend to us."

"Hello Mayu! How have you been?"

"I'm doing very well. How are you Misses Morinozuka?"

She waved her hand at the young maiden who only smiled, "You brought gifts?" She nodded and the older woman saw the box of tea, "For us?" She nodded once more, "Oh you shouldn't have!" It was then that she noticed there were no refreshments on the table, "You three didn't offer her anything?" The three males shrugged, she gave an exasperated sigh, "Come Mayu. Let's go make some tea together." She nodded while putting Pome on the seat next to Piyo.

She leaned over, kissed the tanuki and the chicken, "You two be good while I'm gone okay?" Both of them looked sad so she placed her market tote down, "You can lay on it okay?" As soon as she said, both of them snuggled together on her bag, she smiled at them, kissed them each once, then turned while Yuna grabbed the box of tea and headed for the kitchen area. When the women left, Takashi rubbed a hand across his face, and this prompted his father to ask him everything was alright; the older son nodded but explained that it was hard to wait. This caused his father to chuckle while Satoshi looked a little lost, it was then that Akira decided to tell Satoshi what it was all about. The younger brother only laughed at his older brother's predicament, Mori smiled at them while the women disappeared into the kitchen.

Once there the mother of Mori stated, "I know a lot about you, about what happened, and I'm glad to see you're doing well."

"Thank you. It's been a rough road but I'm happy where I am."

"That's good to hear. So how are you finding my little Mori?"

"He's been very kind and wonderful to me. I think he buys me too many things though."

She laughed, "So modest! I love it. Can you make this for me?" Mayu nodded while pulling one sleeve back so that it wouldn't catch on fire, she put the water on to boil, then took the tea bag, she placed it in the tea pot, and they waited for the water. "Thank you for the tea, I'm so happy to have some."

"It should last through the winter, each bag makes four cups."

"So thoughtful you are." Yuna hugged her, she balked for a few seconds before returning the embrace, and when they parted the mother smiled. "I've heard about Selka. We both went to the same all girls boarding school so I know more about her than most people. She's still that cold hearted woman right?" Mayu nodded, "Yeah I thought so. When I heard that she renounced you from the family, I was so appalled, and I really wanted to go over there and give her a piece of my mind!"

"Why?"

"A mother should love all her children."

Mayu smiled, "Well it looks like I'll be a mother sooner than I thought." Yuna's eyes traveled down to her stomach but she chuckled, "No. Selka's pregnant with a son."

"Oh how wonderful!" Mayu nodded, "What's the problem?"

"I'll be caring for him if he looks like me."

"That's fine. So where do you live now?"

"In an apartment with some furniture that Taka bought me."

She laughed, "That's like him!"

"He got upset that he couldn't spend more money!"

Once more Yuna laughed, "That sounds like him. He's always so devoted and when it's time for you to move in then you can bring all of your furniture. We'll make sure that you and Takashi have a space for yourselves." Mayu thanked her, "Nonsense! You're my daughter-in-law!" Her voice dropped lower, "When we're alone you can call me mom."

"Of course!"

"So when is your grandmother coming?"

"I'm not sure. I have to call my Da and see what's going on. It might not be until my lease is up and after the reunion. Probably after the baby is born too."

"You have a very busy and exciting life!" She nodded and there was that mischevous twinkle that Akira had, "Especially with being a bunny." Mayu was shocked while the woman laughed, "We know all about that. Selka was kind enough to stop by and tell me that Takashi would no longer be marrying you but Talia because you work as a bunny maid and blah blah blah." Her red eyes averted the woman but she hugged her, "It's fine Mayu. It doesn't matter what you do with your life as long as you make Taka happy. That's all we really care about. And we've gotten approval from Pome and Piyo so you're good to stay."

"Thank you Misses Morinozuka."

"Please!" They separated, "Yuna or mom. I won't take none of this misses and mister stuff!"

She laughed, "Okay Yuna."

"That's better! And I'll teach you to box so you can sock your sisters and Selka in the face! Or the stomach." Mayu laughed while she smiled and turned to the water as it just started to boil, "I smell cinnamon in this one!"

"It's like a spice tea from India but a bit milder and more cinnamon-y for the holidays."

"I love it already." The water was poured into the teapot then she motioned for her to put honey in it, Yuna poured some, and stopped when Mayu told her too.

"There, that's pretty much it. I've included instructions for steeping time, it's pretty much the same but you don't want to put boiling water, it'll burn the spices and leaves."

"Good, now let's take this to the boys although I wouldn't mind if you could have some girls too." Mayu chuckled, "Ha! I knew it!" She laughed a bit louder as Yuna took the tray to the others in the room, she placed it down, and everyone took their cup. Akira inhaled it before sipping it, and sighing happily; the maiden took her own cup, blew it on it, and then sipped it as well. Yuna smelled it, "It's so heavenly."

"I agree," replied the father.

Satoshi sipped it and stared at it, "I had no idea you make tea Mayu! Takashi didn't tell me that!"

She laughed, "He likes to keep secrets." He only smirked at her while he took a sip as well. "I gave Reiko a bunch of different candy cane flavored ones and mint and cinnamon along with matching cookies. She really likes those types."

"When did you give them out?" asked the younger brother.

"I didn't. I gave them to Kyoya and he took them out to everyone. He is like my personal Santa Claus!"

He laughed, "You would do that!"

She nodded, sipped her tea once more, and noticed that the tanuki had appeared on her lap once more, "Hello Pome." She stroked his fur with her free hand, he grunted, and she chuckled, "Yes, yes I know. You like my lap. I'll be sure to knit you a blanket and roll around all over it for you!" He grunted once more and she chuckled while Takashi smiled down at her. Akira nudged his wife, pointed, and she smiled until there was the sound of a click.

Mayu looked at Satoshi as did Mori while he stated, "Gotcha!"

"Ooo! Text it to me!" exclaimed Mayu. He did, she whipped out her phone from her bag, unlocked the phone, and smiled warmly at the picture. Immediately she set it to her wallpaper, and looked up at them, "Could I get a family photo?"

"Sure," replied Akira. He called in one of the servants and had them take a picture of everyone, including Mayu, Piyo, and Pome. Once it was done, she thanked the man profusely while Akira smiled at her, she loved the picture so much that she set it as her screen saver. When she was done, she showed the Morinozuka family. "I love it Mayu. It's perfect." She nodded while Mori pulled her close, he kissed the top of her head fondly, and her eyes twinkled as she smiled warmly towards him.

The night progressed smoothly as they had watched the movie that Ren told them about. She had laughed the entire time especially when the white rabbit scene appeared. Yuna made sure to remark that to the maiden that she was perfect as the volatile little floppy at Chateau Bunny, it only made her laugh more. As it was time for her to leave, she said her farewells to the family, and she was taken home by the limo, Mori saw her to her door, and kissed her cheek. "Thank you Snowbelle."

"You're welcome Taka. Just let me know ahead of time about the tournament so I can take off work for it." He nodded once more while he leaned in, he kissed her gently, and she reciprocated; as they parted she caught her breath which made him smile. "I'm going to miss having you here Taka but soon I'll be at your house!"

He laughed, "That you will Snowbelle with your Gammy and little brother." She nodded and he leaned in, "I look forward to it." Mayu grinned while standing up to kiss his cheek, he kissed her head, and they parted ways for the evening, she watched him exit the gate, and she waved to him as he did the same. Once inside her home, she sighed, locked up everything, and began to undress from her Christmas kimono even though she knew she would need to wear it for the following day.

"So many times it's been used, usually it's just once but this year twice so far!" She smiled as she put it in the closet, "I'm glad though. It's always been my favorite since it used to be Gammy's." Mayu took a shower, then huddled under the covers, she snuggled with the Belzeneff totem while her thoughts were of Mori and the bell necklace never left her body.

-::::::-

Once more she dressed in her kimono with the proper cosmetics on, she opened her door to find that nearly everyone was waiting for her, she laughed, glad to have such friends, and then they all thanked her at once for the gifts. She couldn't help but laugh ever more so but it was Mitsukuni that noticed the necklace, "What a beautiful chain Mayu!"

"Thank you Mitsukuni. Taka got it for me."

"Ah and here I thought he was going to get you a ring."

She laughed, "Mitsukuni!"

He shrugged while Reiko hugged her and thanked her for the tea, she said, "Come on Mayu. Let's go crash that fancy Christmas Party!"

"Alright!"

"Hold it!" stated the twins. She looked at them, they gave her a bag, "Put this on first! We're not letting you go to that party wearing the kimono that they know you have. So we made this specially for you!"

"Thank you so much Kaoru and Hikaru!"

"You're welcome!" They handed her a box as well, "These are shoes to match. Now hurry up!"

"Will do! Two minutes!" She disappeared inside while they all huddled inside her apartment, Reiko closed the door behind her, everyone was admiring her furniture, the dining table, and the general layout. Her bedroom door was closed, she was already changing into the dress that they had made for her, and when she finished; she stood shocked at herself in her full length mirror. "It doesn't even remotely look like me...but..someone with a lot of money. I look like those models in those fashion magazines that Talia and Valia are always looking at but..I'm healthier." Mayu took in a deep breath and exited her bedroom while carrying the shoes in her hand. When the door closed, everyone turned to look at her, and the Twins clapped as they knew it would fit her.

Dark eyes roamed over her figure from the back of the crowd, he noticed that the white dress tied at her neck, it was white, hugged her figure before flaring out just a little from the knee, and he noticed the slit on the side. It stopped at mid-thigh to make it easier to walk and the dress was adorned with small embroidered golden suns. They trailed around the hem in intricate lines before heading up to her naval where it went single file before flaring out all over her chest once more. The golden sun barrette matched and she had golden shoes but she shivered. Immediately a box was given to her from Tamaki, "It's a gift from Haruhi, Kotoko, and myself. We hope you like it."

She slid the lid off and smiled, she touched her fingers to her lips, and pulled out the white trench coat, it was long sleeved with an attached hood, and it came down to her ankles. The outer layer was soft leather and it was lined with a warm layer of pale yellow fleece. She immediately pulled it on, then tied the belt, and smiled at them. She hugged all three of them and thanked them profusely as she had thanked the twins. Haruhi smiled, "You're welcome. Now you're ready to show off to your family."

The necklace she wore was shown off even more now that her chest was bare of any fabrics, Mori managed to get to her, he put out his arm to her, she entwined her arm with his, and the others smiled while Satoshi started to snap photos. Kyoya stated, "We have some stragglers in the limo, I think you know who they are."

She laughed, "Jin, Kairi, Ren, Saki, and Nao." He nodded, once everything was locked up tight, Mori whispered something to her, and she nodded. It was only to keep her market tote in the limo, so once inside, she slid it under the seat, and he nodded. It was then that Kairi gasped at her, she laughed,"It's a coat that Haruhi, Tamaki, and Kotoko got me."

"It's so beautiful."

"You should see the dress that Kaoru and Hikaru made for me."

Nao smiled, "I bet. I have a cousin who only buys their clothing."

She smiled while the Hiitachin Twins grinned, the limo proceeded towards the Ishikawa Estate, the closer they drew to it, the more she could feel that chained wolf struggle, and she closed her eyes. There was a hand on hers, her eyes opened to look at Kairi, who said, "Remember, just be Bun Bun." Mayu smiled, nodded, and she grinned, "Good! Now we can have a lot of fun." Everyone cheered, she laughed at them while Mori smiled, he kissed her head once more, and her expression softened towards him. The limo pulled in, the door was opened, and everyone piled out, although the servants were shocked to see her; they were more than happy that she had brought friends. Kairi announced, "We're here to crash the party!" They laughed as the door was closed and Mayu decided to leave her coat in the limo, so she quickly opened it up, and placed the coat on the seat.

"I'll take good care of it miss," said the driver.

"Thank you sir." He nodded with a grin while she closed the door and the driver headed off to park and wait the return of his charges. Mayu turned around to see that Mori waited for her, she smiled, entwined her arm with his, and took in a deep breath but she noticed that he took her towards the trees. "Thank you Taka." He nodded and watched as she took her two fingers and placed a kiss on every tree, thanking them for their hard work, and blessing them. As they reached Ancient, she patted his trunk and said, "Thank you once more my friend for caring for my family. May Lady Amaterasu's rays shine brightest upon you and your brethren, let her give you life and protection. Live long and strong my friend." The leaves rustled, she smiled, and they left the area but not before Mori mimicked her behavior, she smiled warmly up at him. "Thank you."

"Any time Snowbelle. You look very exquisite tonight."

"Exquisite? Like a trophy?"

"Like the rays of the sun piercing through the trees."

"Thank you Taka. You are my world and because of you my world has grown so much more."

"Because of you my world has become brighter."

"We are alike minded."

"Yes."

"Are you tired?"

"A little."

"Will you flirt with me in front of the others?"

"Most likely but I will definitely nuzzle you in front of your sisters."

"Why?"

"Because your bare neck is very tempting. I really want to pull that little knot you made at the back."

She glanced up at him and swatted him playfully while he smirked, "TAKA! Not in public!"

He leaned in close and chuckled, "I would never do such a thing in public but there's no one out here." He began to nuzzle her neck and she laughed at his antics. It continued on for several minutes before she lightly smacked him on the head. He backed off a little to stare into her ruby eyes, "You're very attractive this evening. I won't let any one get close to you."

"Except our friends."

"Yes."

"Does that include Aran and Atashii Oshiro?"

"Yes."

"Even if Atashii has a crush on me?"

"Yes."

"Okay. Then let's go have some fun." He nodded but not before kissing her, she returned it, and then the pair headed towards the house; once inside, she was found by Aran who hugged her. "How are you Aran?"

"Ah! You can tell us apart?!"

"Yes."

He laughed, "Here I thought we had you fooled!"

"You did, for a little while until your father told me."

"Dad? He visited you at your work?" She nodded, "Ah! That explains why he never answered my messages when he was on his lunch hour!"

Mayu laughed, "He even offered to carry my tea once it was ready for his bank."

"Oh! I'm so happy for you Mayu! Thank you for the gifts, we really like them." She smiled and told him that he should expect it again next year, "I most certainly will!" Then he turned his attention to Mori, "How have you been Mori?" He shrugged while the twin laughed, "That's good! Mayu been taking care of you?" He nodded while Mori tilted his head in curiosity, "I can tell. You look much better, happier in a way, brighter."

"Thank you Aran."

"I'll come to your tournament because I want to root you on!"

"Thank you."

"Hey, any friend of Mayu's is a friend of mine and Atashii." It was then that he noticed the necklace and he eyed Mori, "That's a beautiful necklace Mayu. Whoever gave it to you must care about you a lot!"

"Yes he does."

"Very good! Well I'm going to hide since Rosette's been trying to flirt with me. I'll see you around Light Maiden! May her rays shine brightest upon you."

"The same to you Aran." He nodded, bowed, and dashed off to disappear in a corner with his brother, she laughed while Mori kissed her head. Mayu only smiled up at him as they began to make their way towards the buffet, "So wasteful..." He nodded but watched as she munched on a few things that she fancied but avoided the punch bowl altogether this time. She decided to drink the bottled water that was offered, even checking the cap a few times to make sure it was sealed. He chuckled while she smiled, "I want to make sure! Last time was not fun."

"No but perhaps it would be fun if it was just you and I."

"Oh, it would most definitely be fun if it was just you and I, Taka. So much fun since I've seen you drunk." He smirked and gave that low chuckle that she loved, her face flushed, he leaned down, and kissed her cheek. "You are my ray of light in the forest."

"And you are my shining fire in the dark."

"You're so eloquent!"

"I learn from the best." He kissed her neck which made her giggle and he whispered, "I always love it most when you're happy and when you giggle." He nuzzled her again which made her giggle, eventually he stopped as he heard a gasp, and when Mayu looked; she saw her father. "Aiden." The man nodded to Mori but his eyes landed on his middle child.

"Mayu! My little girl! Look at you!" She laughed while her father embraced her, "I'm so happy you came even though you didn't get an invitation."

"Oh now, I know the party is always after Christmas Day so I brought a bunch of friends to crash it."

He laughed, "I'm so glad to see that you're happy." His eyes noticed the necklace and the initials on them, "You have a wonderful guardian my little maiden."

"I know Da."

Aiden looked up at the taller male, "How have you been Mori?" He nodded and snaked his arm around Mayu's waist. The man laughed, "I see the Hiitachin Twins have used you as a model." Mayu blinked her eyes a few times, "Yeah, I've been busy here so I haven't been able to actually give this to you." He removed a folded contract, Mori took it, and placed it inside his jacket pocket. "Thank you Mori. It's a contract, they want you to model for them."

"Really? They could have told me! I text them so often!"

Mori chuckled, "They're very mischievous, always have been the trouble-makers." She laughed, "You'll agree?"

"Of course! I don't think I'm very good at modeling but I want to help my friends although the contract agreement will probably need to be altered. I don't want money in return for helping my friends."

Aiden chuckled, "Mayu, you need to understand that they are your friends but this was sent by their company so it's a business transaction."

Her ruby eyes twinkled, "Da, I know very well about business." He laughed and stated that she did, "But I'll look it over." He nodded while she hugged her father once more, "It was so good to see you Da. How's Gammy?"

"She's good, you know how she is this time of year but your help has made it easier. I've been making sure that she layers up with your quilts since they're the warmest." Mayu smiled and nodded, "I always tell her that you say hello and bless her and she just seems to know that your prayers are answered by Lady Amaterasu because she says she can feel it."

"Gammy always was more inclined to her Ladyship."

Her father nodded, bid them farewell, and dashed off to see his other guests, "He seems in a good mood." Mayu nodded while they began to mosey around the crowd, she even spoke with a few of the others present; whom all complimented her on her dress. She was sure to tell them that it was a Hiitachin dress, they were all impressed with it, and Mori never had his arm removed from her waist. Every now and then he would nuzzle her neck to make her laugh, everyone seemed to like the pair so much.

The night progressed, her older siblings bumped into her, Rosette said, "Oh, so sorry about that." Mayu tuned around to see them, she gasped. "Mayu! What the hell are you doing here?!"

"Crashing your party, what else?"

"You weren't invited!"

"I know that because if I was then I wouldn't be 'crashing the party' with my friends." It was then that they heard a loud noise, Kairi challenged one of the men to a drinking game, and he lost. So she grinned and cheered him for doing a good job. "See? Friends."

Colette sneered, "So you got your rich husband to buy you a fancy dress to come here. I thought you were going to wear that stupid kimono."

Her eyes darkened, "That kimono is Gammy's and you would do well to show some respect towards her and Lady Amaterasu!"

"Yeah, you keep saying that. Whatever little rabbit."

"I'm a bunny."

"What's the difference? You're still a maid."

Mori turned around at this point, his eyes glaring at the older siblings, he wrapped his arms around her waist, and placed his head on her shoulder. "So what if I bought her an expensive dress? Are you jealous that you don't have anyone to buy you anything elegant?" They were appalled at him, "This is a Hiitachin dress so I wouldn't insult it." They gasped again, "And they've asked her to be their model."

"WHAT?!" Mori nodded while Colette fumed, "How is that possible?! I'm much prettier than you! And I have mom's rockin' body!"

Mayu chuckled while Mori laughed, "No, Mayu has the perfect body to be a model." He slid his hand up her waist to the side of her chest before roaming it back down once more to rest on her hip. "That's why the dress fits so well on her."

Both were in shock so they stormed off, she moved her head slightly, "That was harsh Taka." He could tell there was a smile on her face and the older twins looked back at them. Mori nuzzled her neck, she giggled, and he stopped before placing a kiss on her cheek. "Thank you Taka. I'm sure it would not bode well if the wolf had gotten loose." He looked at her, "Their shoulders were very tempting." He gave that low rumbling laugh, she blushed, and he nuzzled her once more before they continued their rounds.

It wasn't long before the familiar voice was Valia broke through the crowd, "MAYU!" The pair turned to look at her, Talia soon showed up, "What are YOU doing here?!"

"Crashing the party. You know Rosette and Colette just asked the same thing."

Talia glowered at her, "WHY ARE YOU STILL WITH MY HUSBAND?! YOU'RE A HOME WRECKER!" At this, Mori glared at her but it was Mayu who's eyes blazed with an inferno; Mori immediately let her go, and the crowd of people backed away. "YOU'RE A WHORE!"

"A whore you say? That's funny coming from someone who only wants a rich husband that will spend all his money on her. You're just like your mother." The twins were shocked, "That's right, don't think I haven't forgotten that day in the park, and I never will. You call me a home wrecker?" She took a step towards her sisters, they took a step back, "A home wrecker? You can't be a home wrecker when you're not married." Her voice was dark as were her eyes, "You realize that the more you taunt me, the harder it will be to chain that wolf inside. That wolf that you and your sisters caused when we were playing in the maple trees all those years ago." At this point, Mori took an interest in what was being said, "Did you forget? I don't think you did because you four always mark it on the calendar."

"H-how do you know a-about that?" asked Valia. They began to hug one another in fear of the middle child, those red eyes glowered at them like the eyes of a wolf ready to pounce on its prey. "How could you possibly know about that day?!"

"You write it on the calendar in the kitchen. You mark it every year and every year I followed you four out there. You always opened a bottle of Da's most expensive champagne that he reserved for clients, you four would drink it, and toast that you almost killed me." Mori's eyes darkened as he began to hear the truth, at this point the rest of their friends had crowded around to hear the story as well. "So, you four had a plan that day, you bet that I couldn't climb to the tallest branch of the tree, and I did. When that happened, Rosette and Colette pushed me, you two said that you would catch me but you didn't. Instead I tried to catch myself, I grabbed a branch, but you two kicked it so that it would break, when that happened, I pushed off from the tree trunk and landed in the lake nearby. It was a deep lake, I was unconscious from the impact, and you four ran away laughing." Her eyes were getting more murderous by the minute, "You thought you had killed the oddball in the family but it was Lady Amaterasu who saved my life, I saw a figure in that lake, a hand grabbed mine, and lifted me out that lake. I don't know who it was because there was no one around when I woke up on the shore, but you four were gone and the clouds never blocked the sun that day; as if Lady Amaterasu was always watching over me."

The younger twins huddled together while Talia stated, "We didn't mean for anything to happen."

"Oh? But you did otherwise you wouldn't have been laughing. My wolf is unchained and ready to pounce but it's wasted on you four. If I ever find out that you insult Gammy again or her Ladyship, there will be severe consequences."

"What can you do?" asked Talia tentatively.

"You see as a bunny maid we have connections with our patrons. As a matter of fact, I see quite a few patrons here but I'm not going to name anyone, confidentiality. So, Merry Christmas sisters." At this point Selka appeared, she looked at her mother, "Oh yes, Selka. When he's born I'll be taking him regardless of appearance." Everyone stared at her including her father, he asked her if she was pregnant and she said no. "That's a lie. You went to an Ootori Hospital for care and I have friends in the hospitals. We're getting a little brother."

Aiden was shocked, "But...you've been drinking coffee, alcohol, eating so much sugar and starch, and going on amusement park rides..."

This time those red eyes turned onto her mother, "You?!" She clamped her mouth shut, "I warned you that day at Chateau Bunny that if you endangered him again..."

"You went to see her and didn't tell me?!" exclaimed Aiden.

Selka was silent as Mayu continued, "I always pray for others well being, all the time, every day, twice a day. I never make a selfish request but this one time I will make an exception."

"What are you going to request from your imaginary goddess?" toyed Selka.

"You would do well not to insult her Ladyship." Mayu bowed to everyone, looked to her father, and her eyes softened, "I'm sorry Da. I didn't mean to ruin your party."

He smiled warmly and hugged her, "It's alright Mayu. You're my Light Maiden and I'm glad you crashed it because I got to see you in a such a regal form." She chuckled, they hugged once more, and she turned away, "Where are you going to pray?"

She looked over her shoulder, "The one place on the estate grounds that these five don't know about."

"Then go my little Light Maiden. Go to her." She nodded while he turned his anger onto his wife, immediately he was about to call a doctor but Kyoya stepped in and offered him one of the Ootori ones. "Thank you Kyoya." He nodded and dialed the number while Mori quickly followed after Mayu, he was curious to see this place that she had spoken of, and the moment that they were out of the house; she took in a deep breath.

"Are you alright Snowbelle?"

"I'm fine Taka. Come." He followed her through the trees, there was a hidden path underfoot, he could clearly see the faint stones that lead the way through the trees, and they reached the bottom of a few stairs. There was a temple entrance, overgrown with moss and hanging vines, the path they had taken lead around her greenhouse which had also been overgrown. It wasn't deep in the forest but the omnious presence of the place made him realize why her sisters and mother never entered. She bowed to the entrance, he did the same, and they traversed the steps. When they reached the small wall of vines, she moved them aside, he followed suit, and they covered the entrance. It was a lake, the moon shone bright onto it, and it reflected the surface. Mayu smiled, nothing had changed, she approached the lake, bowed once more, and took in a deep breath. "You have always watched over me my Lady and you have always granted my prayers. I know that to be a true follower you must be selfless in all acts but this one time I feel that I must make a selfish one. I am sorry to go against your teachings Lady Amaterasu but please let my baby brother be alright. Let him be healthy and give those five nightmares, please teach them that they cannot be selfish without consequences. I fear if I do something then I will not be able to see Taka any more nor care for my little brother. I don't want that, I want those five to realize that modesty is best and selfishness will only bring sorrow." Tears were at the corners of her eyes, she wiped them away while Takashi's eyes softened at her request.

"She'll hear you."

"I know she listens, she listens to all prayers but I don't think I should have requested something so selfish."

"It's not selfish if it's for your brother."

"Thank you Taka." Mayu bowed to the lake, turned away, and they both heard the distant howl of a wolf, "There are no wolves on the estate...I don't think."

"How big is the estate?"

"Big."

When they both turned towards the entrance of the hidden lake, there was a white Akita with piercing blue eyes. "You have a dog?"

"No. We don't, Selka doesn't allow them." The Akita lifted its head and howled once more, Mayu tilted her head while the stray approached her, the canine nuzzled her hand, and she patted the head. She looked underneath and said, "This little one is a girl."

"Amaterasu?" The canine ignored him, "I suppose not."

"Taiyo." The canine wagged her tail and Mayu smiled, "She is not Lady Amaterasu but a messenger of the Sun Goddess." Mori smiled, knelt down, and patted her head, the canine was happy; Mayu smiled, "Come Taiyo. I'm sure there's a place for you at the Morinozuka household." The three of them exited the sacred area, she looked up at the moon, bowed, "Thank you for hearing me Lady Amaterasu and for granting my prayer. I am indebted to you as I am indebted to your brother Lord Tsukuyomi."

"You are not." She looked up at Takashi, "She sent you Taiyo so that you may care for her. You are not indebted to Lady Amaterasu. You are her most loyal servant and she has given you Taiyo as a gift, a way to keep that wolf inside." Mayu laughed and said that he was right and he smiled, "I learn from the best." When they returned to the house, everyone was ecstatic about the albino Akita, Aiden was grinning from ear to ear as he knew who the canine was. She said her farewells to everyone but not before they wanted her picture, she obliged them, and they even wanted a picture of Taiyo. She said to everyone, "Merry Christmas!" They all replied to her the same, once that was taken care of, everyone left in the limo, she had wrapped her coat around her, her market tote was on her shoulder, and she was happy while Taiyo sat on the floor of the limo.

"You can't keep her at your place Mayu."

She looked at Kyoya, "I know. She'll be with Taka." He nodded while the canine lifted her ears and wagged her tail. She was dropped off at her apartment, Takashi gave her a kiss goodnight, and she did the same, he handed her the contract from the Hiitachin Twins then he left her, and she watched him exit the gate. Mayu took her shoes off, placed her market tote on the coat rack with her new coat, removed Belzeneff then took a seat at the dining table, she opened up the contract. Her eyes read it and she smiled, "So they're willing to pay me with flowering plants, herbs, and tea bushes." Ruby irises read over it once more and realized that there was mention of a greenhouse for her tea. "A greenhouse? They're willing to pay me with a greenhouse that's fully stocked with everything that I need for Shining Grove Tea?" She quickly read over the fine details and smiled while a few tears slid down her cheeks.

Mayu chuckled and leaned back, "They want to give me Shining Grove Greenhouse so that I can start Shining Grove Tea with workers already in place...so that I model for them. And they even said that I could teach the workers how to do everything so I can stay as a bunny." Mayu laughed while holding the Belzeneff doll close to her chest. "I have a feeling that Kyoya was involved with this in some way..." She sighed while wearing a smile, she got up, retrieved a pen, and signed the contract. "It says they'll only ask me to come after work two times a week and they're willing to give me my business in exchange for modeling." Mayu chuckled, "They really are strange but they're my strange friends." She looked down at Belzeneff, "Lord Belzeneff, I have a feeling that Lady Amaterasu has always been watching over me since that day when I fell in the lake. She's always protected me, always blessed those I care for, always listened to my selfless prayers, and sent Takashi my way." The maiden took in a breath, "This is her way of telling me that I'm fine. I believe it with all my heart that she has guided the people around me or perhaps she has always guided me through my life." Her eyes traveled up to the ceiling, "Thank you Lady Amaterasu, may your rays shine bright and long through the eons as they always have and always will."

She was quiet, "Merry Christmas Lady Amaterasu." Her ruby eyes looked to her window as the snow began to fall. "Yes, I know now. You were always watching me since I was little. Thank you." The Light Maiden was quiet, "I think I know a name for my little brother...perhaps...Kuyomi as in Tsukuyomi like your brother my Lady." She looked outside to see the brief gust of wind that assured her that the name was fine. "Thank you Lady Amaterasu. Kuyomi is a perfect name for a little brother since I serve you and he shall serve you or Lord Tsukuyomi. Whichever he may choose as I know that my name is derived from yours as well." Once more there was that gust of wind and she nodded as she prepared herself for the evening.