WARNING: This chapter contains scenes with a newly married couple on their honeymoon. While not graphic, some scenes are highly suggestive.
Atsuhiro smiled when he opened the back door of the vehicle to find Mitsukuni and Reiko asleep leaning on each other. "It was quite a day. No wonder it wore them out." Chuckling, he closed the door softly and headed to the back of the vehicle to unload the luggage first.
After the bags were loaded aboard their charter flight, Atsuhiro returned to the back door. Abandoning stealth, he opened it and announced, "We have arrived. Your flight is waiting."
Mitsukuni barely opened one eye, a frown on his face as he contemplated the disturbance to his sleep. "This better be important," he growled.
Stifling a laugh, Atsuhiro jovially responded, "Only if you consider the flight to take you to your honeymoon destination is important." He snickered under his breath as both of Mitsukuni's eyes popped open.
Turning to look at the weight on his shoulder, Mitsukuni's expression softened. "If you'll grab our hats over there," he pointed to the facing seat with his chin, "I'll bring Reiko."
After doing as he was asked, Atsuhiro opened the door as wide as possible to make it easy for Mitsukuni to carry Reiko out of the vehicle without waking her.
When the cool night air caressed her face, Reiko hummed softly and snuggled into Mitsukuni's chest. His breath caught as he looked at her sleeping face. "How did I get so lucky to have a woman like this fall in love with me?" he mused as he entered the waiting plane.
The flight attendant smiled at the couple. "Welcome aboard. We are scheduled to take off in fifteen minutes. Your luggage has already been secured in the bedroom. If you will strap into your seats, the flight crew will begin pre-flight procedures."
Mitsukuni placed Reiko carefully in one of the luxurious seats, fastening her seatbelt, and adjusted the back to make her comfortable for takeoff. He settled himself in the seat next to her, he reached out to take her hand.
"The flight time to Hawaii will be about eight hours. As soon as we're at cruising altitude, you can move to the bedroom and get some sleep," the flight attendant offered.
Rubbing the fatigue from his eyes, Mitsukuni replied, "That sounds like a great idea. It's been a long day. Just let me know when."
There was a tap on his shoulder and Mitsukuni looked up to see the flight attendant smiling at him, gesturing to the back of the plane. He thought, "I must have drifted off during takeoff." He unbuckled his seatbelt and turned to release Reiko's as well only to find her groggily doing it herself.
"Ready to get some sleep in a real bed?" he asked teasingly.
Covering a yawn, Reiko simply nodded her head as she stood up and grabbed his arm to steady herself. "When did we get on the plane? I don't even remember getting to the airport."
"We both fell asleep on the drive. Atsuhiro woke me up and I carried you aboard," Mitsukuni informed her as he opened the door to the bedroom. "Let's get some real sleep so we can enjoy our honeymoon when we reach Hawaii."
Reaching her arms over her head to stretch, Reiko purred, "I like the sound of that." She settled on the edge of the bed. "I'm too tired to keep my eyes open to get ready for bed."
With a twinkle in his eye, Mitsukuni replied, "Just relax and let your new husband take care of that." He leaned down to remove his own boots before kneeling in front of Reiko and doing the same. Massaging her feet gently, he whispered, "Your feet must hurt after being on them so much today."
Reiko moaned softly at his ministrations. "That feels good, but we still need to get ready for bed." She reached to remove her belt.
He placed his hands on hers to still them. "Please, let me." He unfastened her belt, removed it, and tossed it across the chair near the door. Then he removed his own belt and shirt, throwing them to the chair as well. He took a deep breath before he grabbed the lower edge of Reiko's tunic and started to draw it almost hesitantly over her head, half expecting either her to protest, someone to burst into the room and demand to know what he was doing, or to wake from one of his hormone-induced dreams.
Noticing the jumbling of emotions on his face, Reiko lifted her arms to encourage him to finish removing her tunic. After tossing it onto the chair, he seemed to freeze at the sight of her sitting there in her lacy bra. She reached up and caressed his cheek before leaning forward to kiss him invitingly. When the kiss ended, she leaned her forehead against his, continuing to look into his eyes as she trailed one hand down his chest and slipped the other behind her back to unhook her bra.
As the bit of fabric fell away to expose her naked breasts, Mitsukuni uttered a sound like a combination of a sigh, whine, and growl. "You are so beautiful," he said breathlessly. He started to reach for her but stopped.
Noticing his hesitation, Reiko pulled the bra the rest of the way off and tossed it in the direction of the chair where their other clothing lay. Looking at him seductively, she took hold of his hands and placed them on her breasts. "You have a right to touch. In fact, I want you to touch me."
Tentatively, Mitsukuni ran his fingers over the swells of her breasts and down to the nipples that responded instantly to his caress. She moaned breathily. "I'm not hurting you, am I?" he asked uncertainly.
"Far from it. You have a very gentle touch. It feels very good." Moaning softly, Reiko ran her hands up his arms and massaged his shoulders lightly where she felt some knots of tension. While he continued to explore her breasts, she slid her hands down and unfastened his pants.
Reiko almost giggled to herself, noticing the tented evidence of his arousal. "Well, I guess that's proof that he finds me attractive."
He was so intent on his exploration that he was surprised when his pants pooled around his knees and he felt Reiko's hand brush lightly across his erection.
"Just a minute," he said, holding up a finger. He stood up, stepped out of his pants, picked them up, and tossed them in the direction of the chair. Then he pushed her back onto the bed gently and admired her soft skin and slim figure as he reached under her hips.
Hooking his fingers on the waistbands, he pulled off Reiko's leggings and underwear, trailing his hands teasingly down her legs as he did so. He dropped them on the floor and then removed his own briefs before crawling onto the bed next to her.
Her eyes widened at the sight of her now naked husband. Teasingly, he said exactly what she had said to him only moments before. "You have a right to touch. In fact, I want you to touch me." He smirked at she rolled her eyes at him.
They spent a few minutes in mutual exploration and caressing. Reiko marveled at how gentle such a strong man could be. Mitsukuni relished her tentative touches.
Mitsukuni was about to wax poetic about Reiko's beauty when he yawned widely. Chuckling sheepishly, he said, "I guess I'm too tired to continue our explorations right now."
Reiko giggled as she covered a yawn of her own. "Well, at least we have two weeks of honeymoon ahead of us."
Shifting up the bed until his head rested on the pillow, Mitsukuni gestured for Reiko to lay her head on his shoulder. She cuddled snuggly into his side and lay one of her hands in the middle of his chest as he pulled up the duvet. His hand from the shoulder she was laying on rested on her hip and the other covered her hand on his chest. Wrapped in each other's arms, they drifted off to sleep, both thinking, "I could get used to this."
OHSHC
Hikaru had secured tickets from Toma to attend a baseball game at the Kobe stadium. It was the last big event together before most of the Hinan management team set off on their business trips.
"I wish you didn't have to go next week," Fuyumi said as she and Seiji packed some books and games to entertain Masaya, Hibiki, and Ageha on the road trip to Kobe for the baseball game the next day.
Seiji slipped the books into the satchel they were packing and pulled Fuyumi into his arms. "I know what you mean, but the Shidos and the Hinans are counting on me. It shouldn't take more than a couple weeks." His gentle kiss started to turn passionate until he heard a noise behind him.
Pulling apart slightly, they discovered they were being watched. Looking around, they saw Hibiki and Ageha standing in the door to their bedroom hiding their smiles behind their hands and giggling. Then they saw Masaya coming out of the kitchen with his hands over his mouth making gagging noises.
Fuyumi leaned into Seiji as she looked at the kids. "Shouldn't you all be in bed asleep? We need to get up early in the morning to leave for the baseball game."
"I just needed a drink of water," Masaya explained, heading to his bedroom, all the while resolutely looking away from his parents.
"We heard noises and wanted to find out what was going on," Ageha and Hibiki said in unison.
Seiji chuckled. "You two have been hanging out with Hikaru and Kaoru a lot lately, haven't you?"
"Whatever would give you that idea?" Ageha quipped, smirking.
"Okay, that's enough. Off to bed with all of you." He made shooing motions and the kids headed to their bedrooms.
After their doors were closed, Fuyumi turned in Seiji's arms. "Does that go for us too?" she whispered seductively.
Grinning, he leaned close to her ear and replied, "Of course. We have to set a good example." Then he swept her up in his arms and carried her to their bedroom.
OHSHC
Rene, Takashi, Chiharu, Kyoya, Haruhi, the twins, and the Beringar sisters were all gathered in Rene's apartment discussing plans for the coming weeks.
"I'm glad we're all going to the baseball game in Kobe tomorrow," Hikaru said. "Too bad Mitsukuni and Reiko are going to miss it."
Takashi and Chiharu exchanged a glance before he stated dryly, "I don't think they will miss it at all, if you catch my meaning." Everyone laughed, recognizing the truth in his statement.
"Too true. They're much too occupied with 'games' of their own right now," Kaoru quipped, waggling his eyebrows suggestively.
Coco swatted him playfully. "They're entitled. They're married now."
Estee leaned her head on Hikaru's shoulder and patted his chest. "Don't worry. You guys will get your turn. It may be a couple years, but it will be worth the wait."
The images the banter conjured in Rene's mind made him blushed deep red. "Enough. Let's change the subject. What are everyone's plans for the summer?"
"Well, we are headed to London next week with Seiji," Hikaru commented, gesturing to himself, his brother, and their fiancées. "We're premiering our line "Spirits of Nature." It showcases dresses made with the water-dyed silk. In addition to the five color schemes you ladies wore to Mitsukuni and Reiko's engagement party, there's also one done in yellows and bright whites to represent day." He snapped his fingers. "Hey, that reminds me. Have you heard from Kami about the fragrance line?"
Kaoru hit his forehead with the heel of his hand. "I forgot to tell you. She called yesterday. Two cases of sample folios and two cases of each scent will be waiting for us in Kobe tomorrow. She left them with Toma. She also shipped two cases of each to our London, Paris, Milan, New York, and Hollywood distributors. They will hold them until we arrive to unveil the line."
Hikaru looked puzzled. "Why did she leave them with Toma? I thought she was meeting us for the baseball game tomorrow. I was going to invite her to go with us."
It took all his restraint, but Kaoru did not stick out his tongue at his brother when he replied, "You snooze, you lose. Suzume already invited her to take a tour of some apartment properties in America that she is thinking of purchasing. They plan to spend a month there so they can also see Disneyworld, Sea World, and a number of other attractions."
Estee looked hurt as she asked softly, "Just who is Kami?"
Pulling Estee gently into his arms, he kissed her temple. "Not a rival for my affections," he replied. "Kami Tsuchiya is a childhood friend whose family established a fragrance company that occasionally partnered with Hitachiin Fashions when Mother wanted a complementary fragrance for a line. Seven years ago, she was orphaned. The government representative embezzled her estate, but a little over three years ago the Hinan family helped her get it back. She's actually a genius at creating perfumes and we asked her to create fragrances to compliment each of the designs—night, day, summer, autumn, winter, and spring."
"Oh, this is a business contact," Estee murmured thoughtfully, sighing in relief.
"That's right." Hikaru gazed into her eyes, looking for understanding and acceptance.
Taking a deep breath, Estee smiled and pulled his head down to kiss him. "Please don't scare me like that again."
"It was never my intention to do it this time," Hikaru whispered before kissing her back.
"Okay, okay. If you want to continue that, take it somewhere else," Rene blurted out, hiding his face behind one hand while making a shooing motion with the other.
Laughing, Haruhi said, "I agree." She reached over and patted Estee's knee while nudging Hikaru's foot with her own.
Kaoru interrupted the teasing. "Anyway…after London, we'll head to Paris, and then Milan. Seiji will be with us, picking up security personnel from each of Kyoya's companies. After Milan, we'll head to New York while Seiji and his entourage head to Brussels to pick up one last set of security before bearding the lions in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. At least he'll have the security contingent and Oto Edogawa to watch his back."
"The next stop after New York is Hollywood. Too bad it's the wrong time of year for the Comic-cons. I bet those would be great for the cosplay division. Oh well, it will still be quite a whirlwind two weeks. Then it will be back home to Hinansho," Hikaru continued.
"You four have a busy summer planned," Chiharu commented. "I'll be here working through the transition with Shima."
"I'll be working on a few projects for Ms. Watanabe. I don't start my position at Deloitte Japan until September," Takashi added.
Kyoya glanced at Haruhi before he said, "The same time the London contingent leaves, Tachibana and I will be flying to Hong Kong for some board meetings and investment presentations. When those are complete, we'll fly to Okinawa for several more meetings before returning to Hinansho. It should take less than two weeks."
Haruhi scowled but schooled her expression before anyone asked questions. "I wish he would have told me. Oh well, I know he has a busy schedule managing his finances and investments."
"What about you, Haruhi?" Rene asked, watching her expectantly.
"Mr. Naruse wants me to sit second chair on a case later this summer and he might have a research project for me, but he hasn't confirmed anything yet. I did promise Fuyumi and Hibiki that I would take Masaya, Hibiki, Ageha, and Ren to the zoo and aquarium sometime this summer." She shrugged before adding, "Nothing too exciting."
"Thankfully. I don't think I could survive another summer like last year," Rene stated, wiping the back of his hand dramatically across his forehead.
"So, what about your plans, Rene?" Coco asked, reaching over and nudging his shoulder gently.
His face lit with enthusiasm. "Well, Shimura and I are planning to attend a conference conducted by some psychologists from America. The program is called TIP and it stands for Trauma Intervention Program. It's about a program similar to the one my internship was involved with—police departments having counselors on-call for trauma situations."
"I can imagine how that would be helpful," Kaoru murmured thinking about Ageha and the bombing that killed their parents.
Noticing his downcast eyes, the group guessed where his thoughts were and surrounded him in a group hug. "Hey, we get it," Haruhi whispered as she rubbed his back gently. Kaoru sighed acceptingly at the show of support and reached for Hikaru and Coco's hands to draw additional comfort.
Once they all returned to their seats on the floor, Rene said sheepishly, "I didn't mean to cause you distress."
Kaoru gave him a watery smile. "It's not your fault. I'm okay most of the time. It just creeps up on me at random moments. My grief counselor warned me that times like these would happen and that makes it easier to cope with them."
Haruhi looked rueful. "I guess my experience last year with that grief counselor was an anomaly. I forgot you two and Ageha saw one for the year after your parents were killed. Takashi had a good experience with his and I have to admit my recent meeting with a counselor was much better."
Rene leaned his head on her shoulder. "I'm glad this experience was better for you. After what you went through last fall, I was worried that my chosen profession might cause problems between us."
Haruhi slipped her arm around him and kissed the top of his head. "Don't worry. I would never blame you for what someone else did."
Kyoya reached around Haruhi to squeeze Rene's arm gently in encouragement. When Rene sat up, Kyoya left his arm draped around Haruhi's waist.
There was a lull in the conversation as everyone was lost in their own thoughts.
"We need to get up early to leave for Kobe. Let's get to bed," Takashi declared, standing up and pulling Chiharu to her feet.
Glancing in Kaoru's direction, Rene offered, "Maybe we could all sleep here tonight?"
Kaoru smiled in gratitude. "I'd like that."
OHSHC
"Hey, Toma, thanks for letting us use the owner's box today," Seiji said, watching Masaya, Hibiki, and Ageha stare in fascination at the warm up taking place on the field.
"No problem," he responded with a smile. "It's more fun when others are here to share the space. When Hikaru called, I was thrilled that the Hinan family wanted to come to a baseball game here. The stadium in Tokyo is much closer."
Chuckling, Seiji teased, "I think you were a bigger draw than the baseball game. Despite the suffering Rina caused, she did bring you, Suzume, Kami, and the Hinan family together."
"Yeah, a shared enemy can do that." Toma looked around at the group. "The only one missing is Mitsukuni."
"He and Reiko are on their honeymoon," Fuyumi said, interrupting the conversation between her husband and the stadium owner. "I didn't get a chance last year, so I'll do it now." Fuyumi pulled Toma into a hug and whispered, "Thank you for finding Haruhi. I don't know what my brother would do if something happened to her."
"Actually, she kind of found me. I wasn't even aware that she was in the area until the whole mess was cleaned up," Toma admitted.
Patting his chest lightly, Fuyumi continued, "Nevertheless, you were in the right place at the right time so everything turned out okay." Her voice quavered toward the end of her speech.
"Hey, none of that," Seiji murmured as he pulled Fuyumi into his arms and kissed the top of her head. "That's all in the past, so you don't have to worry."
Sniffling, she whispered into his chest, "I know. But when I think what might have happened, I just…"
"Shhh. I understand. But Haruhi's okay. Everything turned out just fine." Seiji gave Toma an apologetic look before escorting Fuyumi to the back corner of the owner's box.
"Hey, Toma, come join us," Hikaru called. "They're about to throw out the first pitch."
After a quick look at the retreating backs of Seiji and Fuyumi, Toma headed over to join the rest of the group and watch the game.
Once they were out of sight of the others, Seiji tipped Fuyumi's face up and wiped away her tears with his thumbs. "How about after I get back from this business trip to Europe, we take the kids on a vacation. Maybe Hawaii and some of the zoos and aquariums in America? What do you think of that?"
Fuyumi looked up her husband and smiled waveringly. "I'd like that. You know I love you, right?" Without giving him a chance to answer, she pulled his head down and kissed him firmly.
Kyoya looked over his shoulder at his sister and her husband. "I'm so glad the arranged marriage between Fuyumi and Seiji worked out for their happiness, unlike most of the ones I've seen. She has been with me through so much. Even though I'm a Hinan now, I still consider her my sister." He smiled to himself and draped his arm around Haruhi's shoulders.
Haruhi looked up at her fiancé and smiled softly as she leaned against him. "I'll miss him while he's away on business. I wish he would have told me before he announced it to the whole group, but, oh well, what's done is done." She sighed and returned her attention to the baseball game when the crowd cheered over a play on the field.
"I bet Ren would have loved to be here," Ageha said as excitement permeated the atmosphere of the stadium.
Distractedly, Hikaru informed her, "I asked Kosaku if I should get tickets for him, Hibiki, and Ren, but he said Hibiki hadn't been feeling well and probably wouldn't be feeling up to it."
Estee and Coco snickered before Estee said, "I suspect that Ren will be a big brother by Christmas time."
Everyone turned to look at Estee after her pronouncement. She shrugged. "I noticed during the graduation and wedding activities that she looked queasy around food and excused herself to the bathroom a lot."
"I guess I'll have to plan more activities to include Ren so Hibiki has plenty of time to rest," Haruhi noted. "Masaya, can you think of anything the four of you would be interested in besides the zoo and aquarium?"
When he didn't answer, Kaoru nudged his shoulder. When Masaya looked away from the game in annoyance, Kaoru repeated Haruhi's question. "I'll give it some thought. Right now, I'm busy watching the game." Masaya turned back to the action and ignored everyone around him.
Hikaru looked irritated at Masaya's attitude toward Haruhi. He was about to reprimand him when Haruhi placed a hand on his arm. "It's okay. It's not an urgent request. Let him enjoy the game."
Huffing in exasperation, Hikaru replied, "If you say so."
"I do." Haruhi looked around. Everyone was having a good time watching the game, enjoying the refreshments, and just relaxing after all the craziness of the past few weeks.
OHSHC
Atsuhiro took Seiji's luggage. "I'll stow that for you so you can say your goodbyes with your family."
Seiji nodded in thanks and walked back to where Fuyumi, Masaya, and Hibiki were waiting for him. He knelt down to hug Hibiki. "You be good for your mother, okay?"
"Yes, Daddy," she whispered, sniffing a little. "I'll miss you."
"I'll miss you too," he replied as he stood up and ruffled her hair. He turned to Masaya. "That goes for you, too."
"Of course, Dad." He looked embarrassed at the emotion showing in his voice.
When Seiji turned to Fuyumi, she practically threw herself into his arms. "Hey, it's only going to be a couple weeks. It will fly by in no time." She just nodded her head against his chest and tried to fight the tears. He lifted her chin with a finger and smiled softly before kissing her gently.
"Alright, enough mushy stuff," Masaya grumbled.
Hotta took Tachibana's duffle and headed to the second vehicle to stow it for their departure.
Tachibana looked at his daughter's pout. "I know you're disappointed about not going on the trip with your friends, but a mixed group of young men and women at a cabin in the woods for two weeks with no adult supervision is a recipe for trouble." She crossed her arms over her chest and turned her back on him.
Sighing, he turned to his wife. "I hope you two have a good time at your parents' farm. Hopefully all the cousins can tease her out of her funk. I'll join you as soon as I return from the trip with Kyoya." He pulled her into his arms and whispered, "I'll miss you both."
She pulled his head down and kissed him soundly. "You be careful and come back safely. Despite how she's acting, we'll both miss you while you're gone."
Kyoya, Haruhi, Takashi, Chiharu, and Rene gathered to wish the twins and the Beringar sisters a safe trip.
"We'll be waiting to hear how the release of your line goes," Kyoya said, clapping Hikaru and Kaoru on the shoulders.
Eyeing the four small duffle bags that Atsuhiro loaded into the vehicle for them, Haruhi asked skeptically, "Is that all your luggage?"
Grinning, Hikaru replied, "We sent the boxes of fragrances and wardrobe trunks with the line in them on ahead. They should already be loaded on the plane."
Gesturing to the duffle bags, she clarified, "Are you sure you have enough clothes for two weeks?"
"Oh, that," Kaoru answered. "We plan on buying what we need along the way."
Shaking her head and slapping the heel of her hand against her forehead, Haruhi muttered, "Of course you are. What was I thinking?"
"Hey, Kyoya," Kaoru called. "Do the staff at your New York and Hollywood properties know we're coming?"
"I confirmed your itinerary with them this morning." Kyoya consulted his tablet. "They will be sure to have interpreters available for your visits."
Estee looked puzzled. "I thought we were doing okay with our English. Why do we need interpreters?"
Kyoya smirked as he replied, "These interpreters are for slang and colloquialisms. American English can be very confusing because they may be using words we know, but they've given them a different meaning."
"That kind of help could come in handy. I remember watching an American movie once and couldn't understand what they meant half the time. Uncle Adam had to explain it," Coco observed.
As the others continued to say their goodbyes, Kyoya drew Haruhi aside. "Are you still angry with me for not telling you about the trip first?"
Haruhi looked at the ground as she twisted the toe of her shoe. "I wasn't angry…exactly. It just caught me off guard." She looked up at him, placing her hands on his chest.
He clasped her hands and whispered, "I'm sorry for not telling you ahead of time. I received the meeting confirmations just before our gathering." He let go of one hand and cupped her cheek. "I wish you could go with me, but I know you're very excited about sitting second chair for that case."
Taking a deep breath, Haruhi replied, "That's true. I guess I just hoped you'd be there to see me in action and cheer me on." She blushed at her self-centered thoughts.
"You know I would love to be there, but some of the business I have to take care of is similar to what Seiji is facing in Europe. There are red flags with some of my investments and I need to get them cleared up." Kyoya caressed her cheek with his thumb as she struggled to hold back tears.
She pulled his head down so she could kiss him. When their lips parted, she whispered, "Stay safe and come back as soon as you can."
He kissed her again and replied, "Definitely. Especially with you waiting here for me when I get back." He was about to say more when Atsuhiro and Hotta called for everyone's attention.
"I hate to break things up," Atsuhiro announced, "but Oto Edogawa is meeting us at the airport and there are planes waiting, so we need to get going."
Hikaru, Estee, Kaoru, and Coco climbed into the back of one of the vehicles while Seiji settled himself into the passenger seat next to Atsuhiro. Tachibana seated himself in the other car while Hotta waited for Kyoya to get in back.
"I will text or call you every day," Kyoya promised after giving Haruhi one last kiss before heading over to the waiting car.
Takashi, Chiharu, Rene, and Haruhi stood waving as the cars headed to the airport.
OHSHC
When the plane landed in London, Seiji said, "I hear the last time you were in London, you were mobbed by fans."
Hikaru chuckled. "That will be nothing compared to this time. Last time we were here for our graduation trip. This time we're here to release a new line. The fans will be downright rabid."
"Hey, don't go scaring him like that," Kaoru admonished jokingly.
Waving dismissively, Hikaru said, "I already arranged for security to meet us at the plane. They will take Seiji, Estee, and Coco to Kyoya's house where we'll be staying. Kaoru and I have a media representative waiting to interview us in front of the mob."
Nodding in acknowledgement, Seiji stated, "Oto and I will be at SK Enterprises tomorrow while you four are at your venue premiering the line." Checking the itinerary, he continued, "Our flight to Paris is scheduled to leave at ten o'clock tomorrow night."
"Right. Paris won't be as crazy as here because it's such a fashion hub," Estee assured him. "We'll have breakfast at Tom and Sabine's bakery before heading off to our separate errands."
"Let's see," Seiji consulted the itinerary again. "We leave Paris eight o'clock in the morning the day after our errands. Milan is where we will part ways. I'll head to Brussels with Oto and the security contingent I've acquired."
"And we'll head for New York and our American premiere," Hikaru and Kaoru chorused. Estee and Coco shook their heads and laughed at the twins' antics.
OHSHC
Kyoya sat down on the sofa in the living room of their hotel suite in Hong Kong. Taking his glasses off, he rubbed his eyes. "If it really is just a glitch in the payroll system, then at least it wasn't as bad as I feared. It shouldn't take more than a couple days to identify and calculate the total amount of the CEO's duplicate payments. If he doesn't have the funds to repay it right away, I'd be willing to have it deducted from payroll over the next year."
Tachibana was standing in the kitchenette selecting beverages from the refrigerator. "It's still a mess to clean up, but you're right, it's not as big as expected." He walked into the living room and handed Kyoya a bottle of water.
"I hope you don't mind that I ordered room service for us tonight. After the flight today, I'm too tired to schmooze businessmen." After taking a long drink of water, he leaned his head onto the back of the sofa. "And I definitely was NOT interested when the CEO took us to that hostess club and arrange for private 'entertainment.'" Kyoya shuddered at the memory of the heavily made-up women trailing their hands over his arms and chest. "Just the thought of those women touching me makes me feel dirty. I need a shower," he announced, standing up abruptly and setting his bottle of water on the end table next to his glasses.
Tachibana chuckled mirthlessly. "I know what you mean about the 'entertainment.' I think they were actually pickpockets. One of them huffed angrily at me after reaching inside my suit jacket. By the way, thank you very much for the money belt you gave me for Christmas. So much safer than carrying my wallet in my suit jacket pocket like most men do these days."
Kyoya stopped on the way to his bedroom and turned to look at Tachibana. "None of them tried that with me."
"Probably because you swatted their hands away as soon as they were close enough to touch you." Tachibana settled into an armchair, leaned back, and lifted his feet onto the ottoman. Glancing at his watch, he said, "Dinner should be here in thirty minutes, so you have plenty of time for a shower."
Kyoya continued into his bedroom and gathered his robe and a comfortable pair of sleep pants. "I'll call Haruhi after dinner," he thought as he made his way to the bathroom and started to disrobe.
Five minutes later, he stepped out of the shower feeling much cleaner and more ready to talk to his fiancée. After dressing in his sleep pants and robe, he strolled back into the living room. Kyoya chuckled when he found Tachibana asleep in the armchair.
Kyoya returned to his seat on the sofa and picked up his water bottle to take another drink. There was a knock on the door, so he put down the bottle and went to the door, expecting dinner. When he opened the door, he said, "Just place it over…" However, it was not the concierge, but three men dressed all in black wearing masks.
The largest man lunged at Kyoya, trying to get him in a hold but only caught the sleeve of Kyoya's robe. Neatly sidestepping the first attacker, Kyoya divested himself of his robe to reduce handholds for his opponents. He flicked his wrist to toss it over the head of his attacker and foul his vision. When the second man tried to snag a hold as well, Kyoya grabbed an arm and twisted it up between his shoulder blades.
Before the third one was able to make a move on Kyoya, Tachibana bolted from the armchair to the door and had him in a headlock. The attacker tried to struggle, but Tachibana used pressure points to render him unconscious.
"I need to remember to use those pressure points. They're much quicker," Kyoya noted as he applied pressure upward on the man's arm, drawing a whine of pain. Kyoya used the distracting pain to retrieve the robe's belt and tied up the second attacker.
When the first attacker finally worked himself loose from the bulk of the robe, he met Tachibana's fist and was knocked out cold. "You just need more experience to think faster on your feet," Tachibana bantered.
Tachibana's expression shifted to a grim frown as he retrieved the zipties from his jacket slung over the highbacked chair in the dining room. After securing the three, Kyoya and Tachibana searched their pockets for identification.
"Well, maybe things are worse than they appear." Kyoya's voice was steely as he retrieved a security badge from the company they had met with that day. He handed it to Tachibana. "No simple payroll accounting glitch would make them desperate enough to send the head of company security to assault a major investor."
His phone already to his ear, Tachibana stated, "I have a police contact here in Hong Kong that I trust. I'll call him to help with our 'rodent' problem."
"Hmm. You're right. They do look like weasels," Kyoya remarked as he locked and bolted the door. "I'll just move them over here out of the way until your contact arrives." He dragged them roughly to one side of the door and left them in a heap. "I'll call the concierge and find out if our dinner is on the way."
While Tachibana was on his cell with his contact, Kyoya picked up the room phone to call the front desk. There was no dial tone so Kyoya expected more trouble was on the way. He gestured to the phone and made a slashing motion across his neck to inform Tachibana of the problem. Then he headed back to his bedroom to get dressed. "I'd rather be fully clothed if we're going to be expecting more company."
OHSHC
Seiji, Oto, and their security contingent opted to take the train from Milan to Brussels. Security felt that the low profile would be beneficial, and it would be easier to secure train compartments than an airplane.
They were met at the station by a six-member security team from Versteckte Betrieb, Kyoya's company in Brussels. "Welcome. Please allow us to escort you to the property where you will be staying," greeted the head of security, an expression of concern on his face.
They were settled in the transport before the head of security spoke again. "Mr. Shido, I apologize for the rush, however some unsettling facts have come to light since Mr. Hinan asked us to look into the three companies you are here to investigate."
Seiji tensed at the steel behind the security chief's words. "What have you uncovered?"
"Not here," he responded. "Please wait until we are in a secure location. I ask that you not use your cell phone or other electronic devices to communicate any sensitive information."
"Well, I guess it's a good thing someone came in person to evaluate the situation. I get the impression that things may be much worse than we anticipated." Seiji closed his eyes and rested his head against the back of the seat for the remainder of the trip.
When the transport stopped, Seiji started to climb out, but the head of security stopped him. "Let us check the perimeter first."
Oto looked at Seiji, an expression of uncertainty flashing across her face as she watched one of the security members outside the vehicle draw his sidearm. She breathed a sigh of relief when he returned it to its holster. "I fear there is a lot more going on than some financial shenanigans," she murmured.
"You may be correct," Seiji replied. "If you want to return home, it can be arranged. I'm sure I can make do with the security team."
Taking a deep breath, resolution flooded Oto's expression as she stated, "Only if the head of security deems it necessary. I was in dangerous situations with the translation corp and I can handle this unless my presence compromises the situation."
The head of security climbed back into the transport. "We will pull into the garage before exiting the vehicle. No threat was found, but something is definitely off. I just can't identify what at this time."
OHSHC
Sitting down on the towel next to Reiko, Mitsukuni ran his finger down the middle of her bare back as she lay basking in the Hawaiian sun. "I like your outfit," he teased as he kissed her shoulder.
"I have to admit, I like how secluded Kyoya's villa is. Clothing should be optional on a honeymoon," she purred as she rolled over and sat up to capture his lips in a seductive kiss.
"I completely agree. It saves so much time, as well as wear and tear on the clothes." He pulled her over to straddle his lap. "I really like the view," he whispered. "And I'm not talking about the jungle over there," he continued, jerking his thumb over his shoulder in the direction of the trees surrounding the villa.
Pressing her breasts against his chest, she breathed, "The view is nice, but contact is even better." She threaded her fingers through his hair and started kissing along his jawline toward his mouth.
He grabbed her hips and pulled her close. "I have to agree about the contact." He slid one hand up her back and shifted the hand remaining on her hips to hold her against him. "I want to continue this inside because the sun is getting too warm." Smoothly he stood up, taking her with him. "I don't want anything to distract us from our explorations," he growled seductively as he carried her inside.
OHSHC
"Do you have any secure assets in Hong Kong?" Tachibana asked conversationally as he and Kyoya disabled the fourth set of intruders that evening.
"Actually, I do. I was packing and about to suggest checking out those accommodations when these rodents interrupted. How very rude of them." Kyoya twisted the drapery cord around the hands and feet of an attacker laying with his face on the floor. "I believe Rene referred to this as 'hog-tying,' He got it from some American movies he was watching."
Glancing over his shoulder as he flipped another attacker, Tachibana responded conversationally, "I believe they are called 'westerns' and depict romanticized life in the western region of America during the late 1800's. By the way, remind me later to carry more zipties in the future."
Looking around at the growing number of unwanted guests, Kyoya snorted, "I've had enough of a workout for today. How about you?"
"It has reached the point of boring," he responded off-handedly. "Shall I stand guard while you complete your packing?"
"I think I just need to get my shaving kit from the bathroom. Then I'll stand guard while you pack." His voice was slightly muffled as he entered the bathroom to retrieve that last item for his packing.
Tachibana chuckled. "I didn't even have time to unpack before the parade started. Hopefully Chan Ka Kui will be here soon to take care of the infestation."
Kyoya pulled out his phone and sent a text. "Our new accommodations will be ready when we arrive and dinner will be waiting."
"Good. I've worked up quite an appetite." Tachibana smirked as he asked, "Have you called Haruhi yet?"
"Oh, that would be rich, calling her while we were fighting intruders. I can just hear her chastising me for telling her these were simple business and investment meetings." Kyoya shook his head with a fond smile on his face. "I don't want to worry her. Maybe during dinner would be a good time."
Both of the men tensed when there was a knock at the door. "Pest Control. You called about a rodent infestation?" a voice stated.
Cautiously Tachibana looked through the peephole before releasing the deadbolt and unlocking the door. Kyoya stayed out of sight behind the door until he was sure it was indeed Tachibana's contact and not another attack.
"Thanks for coming so promptly, Chan Ka Kui. As you can see, the problem increased after I first contacted you." Tachibana secured the door once his contact was inside. "This is my colleague, Kyoya Hinan."
"A pleasure to meet you," Chan Ka Kui said. "Any additional information that I may need about the infestation?" he joked.
"It may be a bit of a long story, but if you have the time," Kyoya responded.
Looking around, Chan Ka Kui nodded. "My car isn't big enough for all of these. Let me call for back-up. Then you can explain the situation while we wait." He pulled out his phone and tapped a contact number.
"A sound proposal," Kyoya agreed as the Hong Kong officer waited for his contact to answer.
A short phone conversation later, Chan Ka Kui disconnected the call and turned his attention back to Kyoya and Tachibana.
Gesturing to the sofa and armchairs, Kyoya said, "Why don't we have a seat while we wait for your back-up and I explain what I know and speculate on the reason for the intrusions."
After they were settled comfortably, Kyoya began, "Well, first of all, every one of these men work for the company I can here to meet with." He presented the police officer with a stack of security badges and identification cards retrieved from the intruders.
"I am the majority shareholder and returns showing on the most recent annual report did not align with projections and certain expenses were nearly double compared to budget. When we arrived and met with the executives, the CEO insisted that the new payroll software contained a glitch that paid him twice every pay period." Kyoya shifted in his seat and rested his elbows on his knees while clasping his hands together. "While that claim may have been valid, I still contacted one of my Hong Kong security companies to investigate the software in question and other potential glitches."
Chan Ka Kui made notes throughout Kyoya's recitation. He nodded occasionally but did not interrupt.
Kyoya ran his hand through his hair. "I should have been more suspicious when the CEO insisted on taking us to his favorite hostess club and arranging 'entertainment' for the evening. I am engaged and Tachibana is happily married."
Interrupting, Tachibana interjected, "There was also the fact it felt more like a police pat-down than a hostess approaching a client." After a moment's thought, he added, "You should probably check with the concierge. We ordered room service that never arrived. I don't know if they," he gestured to the bound men, "cancelled the order or if someone in the hotel is on their payroll."
"Definitely an avenue to pursue, "Chan Ka Kui stated. "This information is very helpful. My back-up will be here soon. Do you need someplace else for the night?"
"Already arranged," Kyoya responded, "but thank you for the offer." He pulled a business card from his wallet. "Here is my contact information if you have further questions."
OHSHC
Seiji looked slightly confused after the head of security explained the reason for the abundance of caution. "You're telling me that it's a nepotistic conspiracy and one of your own security people is involved?"
"To clarify, the member of my security team is a cousin to the family involved. He brought the plot to my attention after overhearing them in a planning meeting during an extended family gathering for a wedding." The head of security waited to be sure Seiji understood the distinction.
"Okay, that makes more sense. I got lost somewhere among the German CEO's wife, her sister married to the Austrian CFO, their brother who is head of security in Switzerland, and the cousin getting married who runs the accounting firm that audits all three companies." Seiji rubbed his temples, fighting a growing headache.
"So now you understand why we were so cautious when your group arrived. This is a large extended family with members throughout Europe. We couldn't take any chances that they would discover our plan before we can act." The head of security tapped his fingers on his notebook. "We have gathered a substantial amount of evidence. However, I have not found an accountant I could trust with something this delicate, given that an accounting firm is involved."
Oto and Seiji exchanged a glance. "I may know just the person you need. It will just take a secure call to Japan if you can arrange it," Seiji offered.
Checking the time, the head of security replied, "Given the eight hour time difference, we may want to wait until tomorrow morning. Currently, it is four o'clock in the morning Tokyo time."
"You're right. I'm sure she would be less inclined to help if I rousted her out of bed at four in the morning." Seiji considered for a moment. "Shall we plan for eight o'clock tomorrow morning? That will be four in the afternoon for her and there would still be time for her to make travel arrangements."
OHSHC
Five days after the others left for their trips, Chiharu had a day off. She decided to join Takashi, Haruhi, and Rene for a trip to the Ueno Zoo with Ren, Ageha, Hibiki, and Masaya.
"I think Kairi wants to feed everyone at the zoo with how much he prepared for our trip," Haruhi commented as she arranged bento boxes and water bottles into the backpack.
Takashi chuckled. "He just realizes that we're taking a teenage boy with us." He reached over and ruffled Masaya's hair playfully before taking the pack from Haruhi and slipping it over his shoulders.
"Hey, I was going to carry that!" she protested.
"You were too slow," he drawled at Haruhi before he grabbed Chiharu's hand and winked at her. He turned to his fiancée and murmured, "I'm so glad you can join us today. Now there is an adult for each of the kids."
"You're right. How else were you going to keep Rene out of trouble?" she teased as she smiled at her future brother-in-law.
"I thought Masaya did a pretty good job when we went to the aquarium earlier this week," Rene bantered as he and Masaya exchanged high-fives.
"Atsuhiro is probably waiting for us out front. We better get going so we have plenty of time to see everything," Ageha said, tugging on Haruhi's hand.
When they got out front, they found Aijima rather than Atsuhiro. "I have been assigned as your driver this morning," Aijima explained. "Atsuhiro had to pick up a group of guests from the airport and Hotta was called to the train station to transport several businessmen to Hinansho."
"If you're just our assigned driver, does that mean you're not going to come to the zoo with us?" Ageha asked quizzically. "Atsuhiro came with us to the aquarium when he drove us."
"I'd hate to impose. It looks like you have everything ready for the eight of you," he replied, kneeling down to her level.
Haruhi laughed. "You're welcome to join us. Kairi packed enough to feed an army."
Smiling, he replied, "If it's not an imposition, I'd like to join you. I haven't had a chance to go to the zoo since I was in high school."
"The more the merrier," Hibiki declared.
Not entirely sure what was going on, but happy that everyone was laughing, a grinning Ren clapped his hands and yelled, "Hooray!"
The drive to the zoo took half an hour because of traffic. Ageha and Hibiki chattered incessantly about all the animals they wanted to see. Occasionally they would get Ren to squeal in delight, causing all the adults to laugh while Masaya just looked bored.
"We're here," Aijima announced as he parked the transport. Everyone climbed out and they gathered by the side.
"Can I partner with Aijima instead of Rene this time?" Masaya asked, glancing in Rene's direction.
Haruhi saw the glance but chose to ignore it rather than ask why. "I'll leave that up to Aijima. If it's okay with him, it's fine with me."
Aijima held out a fist and said, "I'd like that." Masaya grinned and bumped his fist against Aijima's.
"I claim Chiharu," Ageha announced, grabbing her hand and swinging it wildly.
Hibiki squealed, "That means I get Haruhi all to myself this time. No offense Uncle Takashi, but I want to get to know my future aunt better."
During all the commotion of partnering up, Ren tugged on Takashi's pant leg and held up his arms. Takashi gladly obliged him, picking Ren up and placing him on his shoulders.
"I can take the backpack," Haruhi offered. "Then it won't be in the way."
"It's not in the way. In fact, it makes Ren more stable by having something under him besides my shoulders," Takashi replied.
"Since Masaya is going with Aijima, does that mean I get to wander around by myself?" Rene asked excitedly.
"Maybe you should partner with Uncle Takashi and Ren," Masaya suggested. "Remember what happened on the farm trip last week?"
Flushed with embarrassment, Rene protested, "It wasn't my fault. Someone left the sty gate open, I tripped over the pig trough, and fell in the mud."
Taking pity on his brother, Takashi said, "You are welcome to join us, Rene." Ren clapped his hands and laughed in delight.
Looking around at their group, Haruhi said, "Looks like the preliminaries are taken care of. Let's go see some animals and have some fun."
Three hours later, they had made their way to the petting zoo. Just as they arrived, twins about Ren's age were starting to chase the rabbits and guinea pigs when they were called to order by a lovely young woman with long light-colored hair. She explained, "Aoi, Akane. You are scaring them. Sit down quietly and you can hold one on your lap."
"Me, too," Ren insisted, leaning forward over Takashi's head, indicating that he wanted down.
Takashi reached up and plucked him from his shoulders. "Hold on there. Let's get you down safely."
"He will be a great father one day," Chiharu thought as she stepped forward and held out her arms to take Ren. "I'll help you get settled so you can pet a guinea pig, too."
Takashi sat cross-legged on the ground and held out his hands. "Let me get Ren settled while you go get a guinea pig for him to hold." While they waited for Chiharu to return, several rabbits hopped over and started sniffing around Takashi. Ren was entranced by the fluffy creatures.
When Chiharu returned, she giggled at the sight of Takashi and Ren overrun by rabbits. "I see animals still love you," she teased as she gently placed the guinea pig in Ren's small lap. She surreptitiously pulled out her phone and took several pictures of Takashi and Ren. "I'll have to send one to Mitsukuni. He'll get a kick out of this."
Ren looked unsure about what to do with the little animal, so Takashi said, "See how the little boy and girl over there about your age are petting gently. You can be gentle too."
Tentatively Ren stroked the back of the guinea pig and exclaimed, "Soft."
After leaving the petting zoo and washing their hands, they all decided it was time to eat lunch. Finding a place on a grassy area that would accommodate their group, they settle down.
Haruhi pulled a blanket out of a side pocket of the backpack and spread it on the ground before handing around bento boxes and bottles of water.
"Kairi always makes such good food," Ageha gushed around a mouthful of onigiri.
Haruhi pointedly swallowed before saying, "I agree. And he made all the boxes look so cute." Her rice looked like a teddy bear tucked in under a piece of thinly sliced salmon decorated with sesame seeds.
Ren only finished half his bento before he crawled into Takashi's lap and promptly fell asleep. The tall man watched the two-year-old fondly as he continued to eat his own lunch.
"I guess we wore him out again," Ageha declared.
Chiharu remarked, "His legs are a lot shorter and he did insist on walking through a number of the exhibits rather than riding on Takashi's shoulders."
"You know, I really liked the lions and tigers. They were incredible," Masaya commented. "I'm glad I came."
They spent the next half hour relaxing and discussing their favorite animals they had seen so far. Ageha and Hibiki spread out the map so everyone could see where they had been and what exhibits they would head for after lunch.
Just after four o'clock in the afternoon, they decided they were ready to head home when Takashi's phone rang. He shifted the once-again sleeping Ren securely into the crook of his left elbow before pulling out his cell and reading the caller ID. "Yes, Ms. Watanabe. How can I help you?" He listened for a minute, ended the call, and pocketed his phone.
Chiharu looked at him expectantly. "Is something wrong?"
Apologetically, Takashi replied, "Seiji needs our help. Ms. Watanabe is making arrangements for the two of us to fly out tonight."
"We were getting ready to head home anyway," Rene commented.
Haruhi said, "Let me take Ren and we can go on ahead to the transport. That will give you two a little time to talk alone." She then proceeded to herd Rene, Aijima, Masaya, Hibiki, and Ageha in the direction of the transport at a faster pace.
"If you don't want me…" Takashi started to say before Chiharu placed a finger on his lips.
"Your family calls, you answer. That's the way it is. I understand because that's the way I want it to be when we have a family of our own. And remember, I have a busy schedule right now. I'm sure you won't be gone long." She pulled his head down and kissed him gently.
Leaning his forehead against hers, he said quietly, "Thank you for understanding. Now we should probably get to the transport before Aijima decides to leave without us. I hear he's a real prankster that way."
22
