Chapter 21 - Crawling
Haruhi and Kyoya enter the elevator heading to the Roi Grand's lobby and, as if from nowhere, Tachibana is there. That is definitely weird, Haruhi thinks. I don't think I could ever get used to living in a bubble, though they say if you experience something long enough, it becomes normal to you.
The limo is waiting. As they pull away, Haruhi looks backwards over Kyoya's shoulder to watch the receding marquis above the hotel. As she does, what seems to be a familiar face catches her momentary attention as it flashes between the faces of those milling about the front of the building. As quickly as the image registers on her brain, it disappears. Her brow wrinkles.
Dad?
"Kyoya," she begins, turning back to her date who seems engrossed in thoughts of his own.
"Hmm?"
"Would you mind if I make a call?"
"Everything alright?"
"I hope so." She pulls her phone from her wristlet and dials home.
"Haruhi?" Ryoji answers, anxiety barely disguised. "Where are you? I'll come for you at once."
"I'm fine, Dad," she reassures. "Just seeing how you're doing."
"Well, aren't you adorable checking on me. Whatever for?"
"You're home, aren't you?"
"Where else would I be?" He sounds innocent enough.
"So you won't mind going into my bedroom and telling me what's laying on my bed?"
"I know exactly what's there, my darling. The empty garment bags from House of Hitachiin, of course. Why do you ask?"
"Oh, no reason." Of course, he'd know that. I'm a lousy detective. But how could he answer the phone without being there?
"Are you having a nice time? Is Kyoya behaving?" Ryoji asks.
"Dad-"
"I know, I know. Stop prying. I just can't help it."
"We are fine. We had dinner at the Roi Grand Hotel and are heading to the National Theater." Kyoya gestures for her to hand over the phone.
"Ryoji-san? It's Kyoya. Everything is fine. Haruhi will be home by eleven barring unforeseen circumstances."
"And just what is that supposed to mean? What unforeseen circumstances do you foresee? Hmmmmmm?"
"We did run into quite a bit of traffic earlier this evening though it seems clear now. The roads are getting icy and I don't want my driver to take unnecessary risks. If there's any delay, I'll let you know. In the meanwhile, did you get the envelope I had delivered to your apartment?"
Haruhi's face registers surprise, but Kyoya puts up his hand.
"An envelope? Tonight?"
"I had it sent by messenger to be hand-delivered."
"Uhhh - well, you see… I decided to take a walk so I'm not exactly at home right now. Tell Haruhi I'll be home later tonight and not to wait up, would you?"
"I understand completely, sir. Your daughter is safe with me."
"I doubt it, but I'm holding you to that, Ootori."
"I'm returning the phone to Haruhi."
"Dad? I'll see you later, okay? I'm hanging up now." Haruhi disconnects and sighs.
"Over-protective much?" Kyoya questions with an amused smile.
"To the Nth degree. What did you mean about sending an envelope?"
"There's no such thing. It's just my way of learning if your father is actually at home. That is what you were trying to ascertain, isn't it? "
"Yes, but I don't think I have the necessary skills for police work. You, on the other hand…"
"Never in a million years. My father would like me to choose Law or Medicine so I can look out for the interests of my brothers, my sister and their families."
"And what do you want to do?"
"I don't object to studying the Law."
"Kyoya, I asked you what you would like, not what you'd agree to do for your family's sake."
He considers her. "There are only two people in the world who have ever asked me that specific question with heartfelt interest. You make the third."
"Let me guess one. Tamaki-senpai?"
"Yes, and my mother."
"What have you told them?"
He pauses for a few moments, as if he's about to reveal some dastardly secret. Finally, he says, "Architecture."
"Really?" Her eyes widen and she smiles, genuinely delighted with his answer. That's a surprise.
"I enjoy design and the potential to create something substantial that can last for decades, if not centuries." A subtle smile overtakes him as he shares his passion. "Have you ever really studied the Acropolis or the Parthenon? It isn't just the engineering that's genius, but the vision of design within the construct of human ability and available materials. There's genius in the work of Frank Lloyd Wright or I.M. Pei. Their legacy is monumental not just to function and design, but to civilization as a whole. Their vision influenced the way people live their lives on a daily basis. That's power."
"I can see you're passionate about it. And it makes sense. Your intelligence, attention to detail, your precision with numbers and budgets, despite Tamaki. Even our cosplay is carefully considered. But isn't Architecture artistic?"
"Are you suggesting that I'm not?"
"I guess I don't really know."
"Ask me about it again some time."
"I will." She's even more curious than ever about the enigmatic young man who's captured her attention and is slowly winning her heart.
"And yet, in spite of my wishes, it's uncertain that I'll be allowed to pursue such a career."
"But why? Wouldn't your father approve?"
"It's not a matter of approving or disapproving. It's about what he thinks is best for the Ootori family."
"Without considering your feelings?"
"Never has, never will."
"I can't imagine Dad telling me what to do with my life."
"Though he worries about it."
"Remember what I said about over-protective? I'm pretty sure he's sprouted at least three gray hairs tonight alone."
"You do realize that had you not hidden your gender from the outset at Ouran that your father would, no doubt, be completely gray by now."
She chuckles. Wait a minute. "You don't think he's following us, do you?"
"I suspect as much, but I doubt he'll show his face."
"He better not," she says firmly. Kyoya nods, grasping her hand within his and sitting back.
The trip from hotel to theater isn't long and they ride in comfortable silence, holding onto one another's warmth and leaning into one another's shoulders. Each is thinking about the people in their lives that care - sometimes too much - but care nonetheless.
It must be the full moon. I can understand Dad being put off balance by my heading out with Kyoya, but even Tamaki-senpai was acting odd. I suppose I shouldn't complain. But why was Kyoya so irritated with him and so jumpy, too? It's takes a lot to rattle the Shadow King but he was, especially when senpai put his hands on him. He looked…guilty. He did say that Tamaki-senpai was being insensitive, but what about?
She thinks back to their words:
…He takes Kyoya and me for a drive every Friday
Just a few beers. Nothing more than that.
Tamaki and I understand one another.
I think I understand more than you're willing to admit, Kyoya…
Her analytic mind sifts through the evidence, like a future case for the future attorney. The issue is there, in that drive they take. Is it drinking or some other substance problem? The thought troubles her. She's read enough about co-dependency to know that children of alcoholics, like herself, often re-create family dynamics in their own relationships. Dad's been sober for the last six years and it just doesn't seem like Kyoya to let himself be out of control. She shakes her head. No, I'm not going to jump to conclusions or pry. I'll find out soon enough if we spend time together. We'll deal with it.
The limo turns onto a broad boulevard and Haruhi spies the Opera Tower, then the rest of the theater complex. She leans forward, looking out the front and side windshields, excitement banishing other thoughts. The National Theater of Tokyo is a spectacular edifice of metal, stone and glass - so different from Ouran Academy's prissiness. And knowing now, as she does, of Kyoya's interest in architecture, she sees it as more than just a building, taking note of line and connection, functionality infused with beauty. It really is art.
Hotta enters the queue of vehicles depositing theater-goers near the main entrance. People from all walks of life are heading indoors to partake in one of several scheduled performances. Opera or ballet, traditional Japanese dance or theater - all are housed here.
"You may want to leave your coat in the car, Haruhi. It's only a short walk and the coat-check is a commoner's amenity," Kyoya advises.
"Commoner? That's an interesting choice of word and very Kyoya of you," she replies looking up at him with an arched brow.
"I suppose you're going to tell me that we should utilize the service since it's someone's job and we should support that."
"That's a perfectly good reason, though I don't want to use it either."
"Why not?"
"I like my new coat and want to show it off." She strikes a pose.
"Ah so."
"Besides, we're cutting things close and need to get to our seats." Maturity and seriousness settle in her expression with a knowing nod.
His expression doesn't change at her jibe though he asks, "Are you mocking me?"
"Just a little. C'mon, Kyoya. What can I do to get you to smile again?"
"Need you ask?"
Her pulse notches up at his veiled request and she bites her lower lip, knowing that she wants the same thing. She tilts her face up to receive his kiss without hesitation. It's simple and sweet and she wants to linger, but doesn't. When she pulls away, she sees a small smile grace his face.
"Better," she admits, "though I won't be able to employ this technique during club hours."
"Haruhi, if I could get a kiss from you every time Tamaki annoys me, your lips would never leave mine."
She chortles and finds that receiving compliments from him is something to which she could become accustomed, as well as his kisses. "C'mon. He isn't that bad."
"You don't know him as I do. Like a dog with a bone is our friend, Tamaki. Tenacity is one of the things I admire about him, but it's also one of the things that makes him impossible."
"He can be a bit obsessive. I'll grant you that."
"Obsessive, obstinate and melodramatic."
"But also…" She waits for the flip-side of Kyoya's assessment.
"Loyal, imaginative and industrious. I don't deny him his qualities, just his excessive nature when exhibiting them."
"In short, he's a person with good and not-so-good qualities, like the rest of the human race."
"I'm not sure if the Ootori family would include itself in that statement."
"You can't be serious."
"I didn't say I agreed with such an assessment, but it's the one my father chooses to foist on his children. 'Perfection is not the exception,' is one of his favorite phrases."
His demeanor has darkened again, so she squeezes his hand and looks into his eyes. "Let's not think about anyone else right now."
He returns her gaze and she senses at such close proximity the deep intelligence that makes him such a stunning student, along with keen perception that seems to be searching for something within her. Haruhi remains still under his intense and steady gaze. What are you looking for?
Their silent communication is interrupted by the door being opened by Tachibana. Kyoya assists her as they disembark and Haruhi is very glad she made them wear their coats. The night has turned gelid and they both pull their collars high around their necks. She thinks about putting on her gloves but doesn't want to lose Kyoya's hand entwined with hers. Looking up, she sees the moon has risen higher into the black winter sky, a now much smaller silver disc casting pale light in opposition to the warmth of the glow emanating from the modern structure before them.
Passing through the main entrance, she's exhilarated by the lights and sounds of expectancy; the movement of people that spills through the narrow openings, wide foyers and staircases like leaves flowing in a river of culture she's only experienced a few times and only through school trips during the day surrounded by mainly bored but diligent classmates. This is different - a crowd that appreciates and understands beauty and art in its various forms. I like simple things, but I want to experience all of Life. It's part of being an educated person and getting along with different types of people. I know Dad approves, too.
Now, she waits at the top and to the side of a wide shallow staircase observing people below. Kyoya said he'd meet her here after checking their coats, but he hasn't yet returned. She scans the crowd and catches the eye of a handsome young Westerner, a little older than herself. He flashes her a bright smile. She smiles back with a subtle nod of her head to be friendly, then past him. The crowd is mostly older, well-dressed folk. The jewelry that sparkles under the lights glitters and the low roar of conversation is intermittently sprinkled with laughter.
"Waiting for someone?" a mellow voice with a tinge of a British accent asks beside her, in English. She pivots with a start. "Sorry. Didn't mean to scare you."
"I apologize, as well, for being unaware of you." It's the stranger who smiled at her. At closer range, he's still cute with short brown hair and green eyes. "Do I know you?" she inquires, responding in English to be courteous.
"I'm James Gauge."
"Hello. I'm Haruhi Fujioka," she replies in the western-style of saying her given name first. "Are you new in Japan?"
"Been here about eight months now. My family moves around a bit 'cause of m'dad's work. I'm a second-year at Namikana High School. Mind if I ask what school you attend?"
"Ouran Academy."
"Posh digs over there, eh?" He sounds impressed.
"I guess."
"Aren't you sure?"
"Excuse me?"
"Forget it. Here by yourself?"
"Actually, no. I'm waiting for a friend."
"Lucky friend or is it more than that?" He's flirting with me. Does he think I'm a guy or a girl? Does it matter? He's flirting with me! She finds herself flattered, if relatively uninterested.
"Not exactly."
"Then the position is available?"
"Listen," she says, needing to set the record straight. "You seem nice enough, but I don't know you and…"
"Everything alright?" Kyoya's voice is at her side, his hand reaching around her to hold her by the waist. His manner is calm, but his eyes threaten the encroaching male.
"Just chatting with your mate," Gauge says in an off-handed manner.
"Then your conversation is over," Kyoya says in English, his voice level while taking a step towards Gauge.
"Hey," Gauge says, pushing the brunet back with two fingers pressed to his chest. "What do you think you're doing?"
"Protecting my interest," comes the reply.
"No need to get huffy. Who are you? Her father?"
On a sigh, Kyoya replies, "I'm afraid that position has already been filled - twice." Haruhi groans inwardly. This needs to stop now.
"Come again?"
"Kyoya," Haruhi interrupts, putting herself between Kyoya and Gauge, facing Kyoya who continues to glower until a sudden look of recognition crosses his face.
"I know you," he says.
Gauge is taken aback by Kyoya's sudden shift of focus. "Yeah?"
"You were at the Mitsubishi summer soiree last. Your father is an executive with them."
"Used to be."
"I see. Excessed or terminated?"
"You're a smug bastard. Probably have somebody tie your shoes for you every morning, don't you?"
"I assure you, I have every reason to be smug as a legitimate son of the Ootori family.
"I know that name. You have a couple of older brothers, don't you?"
Haruhi sees the fire flash behind Kyoya's lenses. "Senpai." Her voice is firm, a vague warning.
"Now, me?" the once-cute Gauge continues, "I may not be inheriting Japan, but at least I'm the first-born son."
Haruhi places her hand on Kyoya's arm. "Please."
"It's alright, Haruhi. I think the gentleman understands that his presence is unwanted. Don't you?"
Understands what? That you're both acting like cavemen idiots? Haruhi sees Gauge's gaze pass over Kyoya's shoulder, eyes opening a bit more before settling into a look of irritation as he turns and walks away. The house lights flicker on and off. She breathes a sigh of relief as they head into the theater which is when Haruhi spies Tachibana standing at a discreet distance. That's why things didn't escalate. It may be precautionary, but it seems heavy-handed.
As they walk down a descending ramp that channels off from the main theater, Kyoya says, "I'm sorry you had to be subjected to that." Haruhi stops and tugs at Kyoya's arm, pulling him to one side of the wide aisle to allow others to pass. Her eyes flash with anger. "What's the matter?" he inquires with genuine concern.
Her voice is low but she speaks with emphasis. "First of all, I'm capable of handling myself in a crowded public space. This isn't Okinawa. Second of all, you were rude to flaunt your position the way you did." Kyoya is silent. "Moreover," she continues, "Need I remind you that I'm not an asset or an interest. I'm a person." Kyoya looks away, his shoulders set. Her voice eases. "I'm really happy that we're spending time together, Kyoya. I've wanted to get to know you better, but if we're going to continue this friendship, my feelings count."
"You seem to misunderstand my intentions."
"How do you mean?"
He looks back at her and pushes at his glasses. "We are already friends. What I'm interested in is something altogether different with you." His gaze is direct, his interest clear. She gets his meaning and she can't say that she isn't interested in the same, but there are clearly things they need to work out if they're going to become closer in any way. The lights flicker off and on several more times.
"Maybe we should get to our seats," she says uncertain of what to say or what else to do.
"Of course." Kyoya's hand rests at the small of her back, focusing Haruhi's attention as he guides her through a simple arch leading to a two-seat "box" that sits separately from the other seats, beneath the overhang of the level above and to the far right of the stage two levels down. "Would you care to sit on the inside or aisle?"
"Aisle, if you don't mind."
"Not in the least."
"Isn't Tachibana-san joining us?"
"He has a seat, but he won't be using it." Haruhi looks behind them, but the man in the black suit has disappeared again. I don't get how it works, but it's a part of Kyoya's life so I suppose I'll have to adjust. I still don't understand these damned rich people. She sits down in the carved wood and cushioned chair, resting her hands in her lap.
"Haruhi," Kyoya says close to her ear as the lights dim. She turns her head and looks at him. "I can't say I blame the fellow for being interested, but I'll keep your preferences in mind."
"That's all I ask," she says, "and I prefer to focus on the present which, right now, looks promising." She turns over one hand so that it lay palm up near his knee. He takes it and they clasp hands on his thigh. She drops her head and under cover of a darkened theater, smiles to herself fairly certain that he's doing the same.
Curtain's up.
End - Chapter 21 - Crawling
Crawling - Green River Ordinance [Kyoya-centric]
I'm crawling in your heart.
Love in moderation
Is all you ever gave, but look inside
'Cause the sting of the sensation,
It flickers like a drug there, in your eyes.
And you feel it, but you fight it.
The more you pull the rope, it tightens.
And you follow the moments
To the place we've built to find...
I'm crawling in your heart (2x).
You envy all the others.
You're thumbing through the words
Just to feel the heart.
And will you ever see it? Oh.
Well, it's me here by your side.
Can you feel it? But you fight it.
The more you pull, the load gets lighter.
And you follow my words, dear,
To the place we've built to find...
I'm crawling in your heart (2x).
Bridge (2x)
Crawling in your heart …
(We got miles and miles to go.
You and me, a million miles to go.)
When you feel it, don't fight it.
We can sail away tonight.
And you follow the flashes
Of the love we've built to find...
Bridge (4x)
Crawling in your heart …
(We got miles and miles to go.
You and me, a million miles to go.)
I'm crawling in your heart.