Author's Note: Welcome back to another chapter on the island. There are links at the bottom to some of my inspiration pics.
Here we go…
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xXx
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Date Posted: 5/22/2021
Trigger Warnings: Language, smooching
The Way Forward - Chapter 35: The Ocean, The Beach, and the Island
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Sunday, July 17 (Continued):
Yacht to the Island:
I'm in a shower on a boat.
I'm in a shower with seven showerheads on a boat.
I'm in a shower with seven showerheads on a boat going to a private island.
This is my life now, and I hope I never stop appreciating everything.
When we landed, we got off the plane and onto a bus, but we couldn't just do it like normal people, we did it behind a big temporary wall so no one could see who we are. Then the bus took us to the boats. Or as Kaoru would say, 'Yachts, Haruhi. Yachts.' Two boats for security.
Now we're headed for our private island for the week.
I knew I was looking forward to it but didn't realize how much until we pulled away from Tahiti and lost sight of it.
I'm looking forward to spending the days doing nothing but fun things. Swimming, playing in the sand, reading, eating, and most of all…sleeping. I feel like I haven't had a good night's sleep in months.
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"There it is!" Hikaru yelled and pointed at an island coming closer.
"It's about time." Renge was lying on one of the deck chairs, half asleep.
I looked through the binoculars. "The other yacht has already landed. I'm assuming we'll hold off until they have all disembarked."
"This sucks." Hikaru's been grumbling the whole way about how security separated him from Kaoru. Don't hear me bitching about Bu being on the other boat. But he's right, it does suck.
After we got to the docks, they separated us by family for the way over. I'm on a boat with Honey-senpai, Satoshi, Hikaru, Renge, Yuki, Akito-san, and Haruhi. The other boat has Mori-senpai, Chika, Kaoru, Tamaki-senpai, Cho-senpai, Fuyumi-san and her son, and Bu.
Once we get to the island, all this crazy security will be over. Sure, they'll still be out there, but we won't be messed with by them.
After being stuck in that plane for twelve hours, I'm leaning over the railing and filling my lungs with this amazing ocean-smelling air. The wind and spray are hitting my face and messing with my hair, and I can feel the sun on my legs and arms.
After all that shit with the Sendo Syndicate, their properties, the animals, and the girls, I need a break, and Bu definitely does. We're going to blow off steam on the jet skis, parasailing, and anything else exciting we can think of. I don't want time to think this week. I just want to do.
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xXx
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Touring the Island:
"Good afternoon. I'm Asaka-san, the estate manager." I bowed to this group of kids and adults. They'd provided a rundown of who'd be here after I signed one of the strictest non-disclosure agreements I've ever seen. Once I read it over, I understood why.
Shido-sama stepped up and greeted me. She'd been designated the head of their group. "Thank you for greeting us, Asaka-san. We look forward to our time here."
"If you will follow me to the main mansion, I'll give you a quick tour before you pick your rooms or bungalows."
The entry of the mansion had a detailed 3D map of the island. "This will give you an overview of everything the island has to offer. There are smaller flat versions of the map throughout the island along with signs."
"Look, Tamaki-kun, they have a lazy-river."
"And a tennis court." I saw the girl with the short, brown hair flinch. Must hate tennis.
"And look at that pool."
"There's also a floorplan of the mansion here," I pointed to a pedestal. "The mansion contains a main lounge, dining room, game room, and office, along with fifteen guest rooms and various other amenities."
"You have a gym, correct?"
"Yes, Morinozuka-sama. Just down that hallway." I pointed to the left. "In addition to machines, there are free weights."
"Hn."
I turned to Shido-sama. "Who will be staying in the mansion, and who in the bungalows?"
"We talked about it on the plane. To start, Sota and I will be the only ones staying in the mansion. The rest want to try the bungalows. They've already chosen roommates."
"Very well. If you will all follow me, I'll take you down to the beach."
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We followed the manager, and I couldn't stop taking pictures. The place was gorgeous with green everywhere. The smell of ocean in the air cleared my mind and invigorated me after that long plane ride.
"Yuki, who are you going to send those pics to? We're all here."
"No idea. I just want them." And I kept taking more with my phone. "Maybe I'll put them on Twitter after we get back." Security doesn't want us doing any posting while we're here.
"Look at that!"
I turned to see what Kaoru was talking about and gasped. None of us have anything like that at our estates. But then again, none of our estates are on a beach. The pool was huge, and there, in the middle was a sunken, dry, seating area with cushions, pillows, and a long table. The edges around it had a trough to catch the water before it could get it wet. There was a bridge and walkway into it and then steps out and then into the pool. Floating lanterns lit it softly. "Wow."
"We'll be serving dinner there tonight," Asaka-san said. "It's available for any meal or snack during your stay."
The only thing it's missing is the sound of the surf.
Akito-kun leaned over and whispered, "That hot tub looks relaxing. Maybe we should try it one night." I tried not to blush. I still remember the feeling of his hands stroking my legs. It makes my stomach flip.
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"Here are the bungalows." Asaka-san pointed to what are obviously the bungalows. He must have some really stupid guests sometimes if he has to tell us that.
"Each one has two bedrooms, each with a king-sized bed and an attached bathroom, a lounge area, a small kitchen, and a deck with slide into the ocean. The furthest one is a clubhouse. It has a professional kitchen, dining room large enough to hold all the bungalow guests and more, a large lounge equipped with full entertainment center, an open-air rooftop with lounge chairs and firepit, a saltwater pool, hot tub, eating and conversation pit over the water, and slide from the roof to the ocean."
He turned back to us and said, "There will be a breakfast buffet served every morning in the clubhouse from eight to ten. If you wish breakfast at a different time or delivered to your bungalow, please dial 1 for the clubhouse kitchen. The clubhouse will be open twenty-four hours for your entire stay."
Good. I'm not sure Ritsu and I will want to get out of bed for breakfast.
"Once you select your bungalows, the porters here will deliver your luggage. Simply tell them which bags go to which number."
"Let's pick!" Honey-senpai grabbed Cho's hand and ran down the boardwalk. They aren't sleeping in the same bungalow, are they?
"Bu," he wrapped his arms around my waist from behind, "let's find the one that's furthest away from everyone.
"They're all alike, Asshole."
"Fuck it. Let's just grab one." His hand slid across my bare stomach, "You're making me crazy."
"That's the point." After my shower on the plane, I'd put on a pair of low-riding cutoffs and my bikini top. I figured it would get him going.
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"Just put these…"
"…five bags in whatever…"
"…one is empty after…"
"…the rest picks."
"We're going to…"
"…the beach."
And we took off running down the path and across the sand. We'd already put on our board-shorts, so we kept running until we were in the ocean.
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"Renge, there's a hammock out there in the ocean."
I looked out the window where Haruhi was pointing. "Looks relaxing."
"How long until dinner."
"About ninety minutes."
"I'm going to try it out."
She pulled off her shorts and t-shirt and had a one-piece underneath. "A one-piece? What happened to those bikinis you bought?"
"Saving those for later," she called over her shoulder as she went down the slide and headed for the hammock.
"Well, I'm going to go find Tamaki-kun." He doesn't have a roommate, though he wouldn't even entertain the idea of sharing his bungalow with me. I'd sleep in the other room. Maybe.
Pulling off my sheath dress, I stepped outside in my new bikini.
"Renge-chan", he waived from next door. "Guess we're neighbors."
"Good." I walked over and kissed him. "Let's try that hot tub."
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Satoshi and Chika claimed the bungalow closest to the clubhouse on the west side, so Mitsukuni and I took the one next to them.
"Taka, Mitsukuni! Come join us!"
"We'll be right there, Satoshi!"
"I need to practice my forms. The plane trip was too inactive." I'd recently added yoga to my pre-workout routine to stretch and strengthen the muscles in my core, legs, and arms. I'd already noticed a difference in my reach, which was already considerable.
"OK, Takashi. I'll go play with them. Cho-chan should be joining us soon."
"Hn."
I changed into loose yoga pants and picked a perfect spot on the deck looking straight out to sea. The water's crystal clear and smells of clean salt. No pollution like some beaches near Tokyo.
The sun felt good on my shoulders, the heat relaxing them already. I closed my eyes and cleared my mind then started my sequence.
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The hammock already did more for my aching muscles than I expected, but I wish I'd remembered to bring down something to drink. Maybe I should put a note by the slide for the next time. The hammock is about twenty-five meters from the deck.
As I slogged through the water heading back to the bungalow, the angle was just right for me to see Takashi on the back deck of his.
"He's beautiful."
Did I just call him beautiful? Would he be offended by that?
He'd changed positions twice before I realized I was standing in thigh-deep water and staring at him. I reached up to cover my smile and found my mouth open. Could I be any more like some teenaged girl?
Maybe not, because I am.
I need to get that water.
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"Yuki, are you sure you don't want to come over to Satoshi's bungalow with me?"
"I'm sure. You go have fun with Honey-senpai. Akito-kun and I are going to explore the island."
"Alright. See you for dinner." She scampered out the front door and around towards the club house. Satoshi's bungalow was on the other side. That pink really complements her complexion. I couldn't pull it off in a million years.
I'd slipped on a long, flowing sundress with thin straps and no back. I grabbed my sandals and headed for Akito-kun's bungalow on the island side of ours. He was already waiting for me.
There's something about a gorgeous man in a white, oversized shirt that's only buttoned halfway and rolled up sleeves and khaki pants rolled up to the knees. He's right out of a romance novel. I could look at him all day long.
"Ready?"
"Almost." I held out a bottle of sunscreen. "Could you do my shoulders and back? I could reach everywhere else."
"Of course." He smiled casually, but I saw the faint pink dust into his cheeks. I couldn't help the small moan that slipped from my lips as he worked it into my lower back. His hands stopped for a second then started again. "Finished."
"Thanks."
We left the sunscreen on his front porch, and he took my hand. "Where do you want to go first?"
"No idea. Let's just wander."
We turned right when we got to the beach and strolled away.
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"I want to swim now."
I held up a finger at my son. "Alright, but only in the pool by the mansion. You'll have plenty of time for exploring the rest of the week."
"But Mom…"
"Sota, I know this isn't immediately going the way you want it, but everyone's tired from the flight, and they all just want to relax a bit before dinner." I flicked his pouty bottom lip with my fingernail. "Tomorrow will be different. I promise."
"Alright."
"Good. Go change into a swimsuit, and we'll Zoom your dad when we get down there." He took off running before I finished the sentence. I turned to his nanny. "I'll come and lie down at the pool with you, but I'm sure I'll fall asleep. This kid has finally settled down after that ride to the island, and I can barely keep my eyes open."
"Yes, Fuyumi-sama. I'll keep him entertained."
"And don't forget the sunblock."
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xXx
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That Evening:
Knowing that everyone would be hungry but jetlagged, I asked the kitchen staff to cook something light. They did a great job with grilled fish, vegetables, and fresh fruit. I know Fuyumi-san is technically the head of our group, but she's got Sota, and she's getting huge with the baby.
"I checked with the kitchen, and they said the dinner menu was your request." She stuffed another piece of mango in her mouth. "Thanks, Renge. I didn't even think about it."
"No problem. I know I'd've felt sick if I ate a heavy dinner."
Around the conversation pit in the pool, everyone was enjoying dinner and talking about what they did that afternoon.
"Hika and I tried to see how far we could swim out and still stand in the water, but we got tired and didn't make it that far."
"I think you'll need to try it from the clubhouse next time," Haruhi said. "The whole lagoon is shallow."
"How far out do you think Sota can go and still stand safely?"
"Probably at least to the first bungalow. That's where it started hitting our waists."
"I wanna swim in the ocean tomorrow, Mom. No more pool."
"One of your security is a trained lifeguard. He'll have to be with you."
He gave a cute huff. "Alright…whatever." I think he picked that up from Haruhi.
"What's everyone want to do tomorrow?" Might as well get an idea. "For the big watersports, we should coordinate."
Always prepared, Haruhi pulled out a paper map of the island. "Well, there's the breakfast buffet tomorrow from eight till ten. Maybe we should all eat together and go from there."
"Good idea, Haru-chan."
"Honey-kun, I'm sure she means eating at eight."
"Oh, no." He pouted and let the tears build in the corner of his eyes. How does he do that on command? "I'm sorry, Haru-chan. I don't want to get up that early."
She and I both looked around the table, and several agreed with him.
"Alright. How about we do breakfast and the morning on our own. Meet here for a late lunch around one and then do something as a group."
"Parasailing!"
"Jet skis!"
"Sandcastle!" That was Sota-kun.
"I'm not sure…" Haruhi started, but Satoshi cut her off.
"There aren't enough boats and parasails for us all to do that at once. Besides, it's fun to watch too."
"I checked the jet skis, and there are eight, so if we double up, we can all do that." Hikaru must really like the jet skis for him to have already checked.
"I'm not sure I want to parasail. I'm not a fan of heights." Akito-san looked over at Yuki in surprise. Guess he didn't know that.
I'll heard this group of cats. "After lunch, let's jet ski then see what we're in the mood for."
"That works, Renge-senpai."
At that, Cho spoke up. "How about we let go of honorifics for this entire trip. We're not at school or work, so there really is no reason for them."
"Works for me!" Honey-senp…Honey said.
Everyone agreed.
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xXx
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Mansion Pool, After Dinner:
"You're doing great, Sota. Don't worry. I've got you."
I texted a picture of Sota on the climbing wall to Umeji. I made sure to include the pool underneath and Satoshi ready to catch him. Satoshi didn't even need to say anything. My son is fearless.
Yuki-chan was sitting next to me mumbling, "Be careful. Be careful."
I smiled at her worry. Along with Sota's lifeguard, we brought another two guards who were also certified, plus the mansion came with one. "Yuki, why don't you and Akito go do something. Sota will be fine. There are more lifeguards here than at home when he swims."
Akito took my hint. He stood and took her hand. "Let's try out the hot tub." It was huge with plenty of seating, including a reclining seat for two. Wish I could relax in it, but not while I'm pregnant.
Kasanoda and Shinobu were sitting behind the waterfall. Before the flight, both their security leads came up and told me that there was no issue if they wished to share a bungalow. At first, I thought they meant they would be sleeping in separate rooms, but I realized they didn't. 'There's a signed marriage contract,' they said. I guess yakuza do things differently.
I wonder what they're talking about.
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"Should we combine our personal money after we get married?"
"Where's this coming from, Ritsu?"
"Well, we're both heirs. When a couple usually get married, they combine their personal money, especially if one is not an heir. But that's not us."
"Yeah. There's really nothing about us that's normal."
"I know." His hands were massaging my calf, and it felt fucking amazing. "I like that about us, you crazy chick."
"Me, too, but that doesn't get us closer to the answer." I stretched and dunked my hair in the pool. "What do you do with your money?" We'd never had this conversation before. It's overdue.
"All living expenses come out of the family money. I assume it's the same for you." I nodded. "Those will say separate until our kid merges the two syndicates."
He thought for a minute, then he found a knot and dug in. "Oh, shit. Yeah, right there," I hissed. "Perfect." The shit-eating grin he gave me turned me on.
"As for personal money, I put a bunch of it into the shipping and green businesses. Once they are profitable, they'll pay me back. After that, I'll invest it again, let it grow. All personal charitable donations are made from it. Other than that, just some random things the family money doesn't pay for."
He moved to the other calf, and I wiggled closer. "I don't own any businesses. The love hotels and strip clubs are owned by the Syndicate. So, my personal money just sits and grows. Somethings I don't feel right about the family money paying for things like gifts for you, and I donate out of it as well. Other than that, I guess it's the same. It sits and grows."
"What about charities? I give to the Tuesday lunch, usually 10x the amount of a lunch at the dining hall. I also donate to a food bank called 'Second Harvest' and a group that works with orphanages, 'Living Dreams'. Beyond that, it's kinda piecemeal."
"After what we found going through the Sendo properties, my donating has changed. I do the same as you for the Tuesday thing, but the rest is focused on sex trafficking victims and ending the illegal animal trade."
"Makes sense." He reached out and pulled me onto his lap. "I'm sorry you had to go through all that, Bu. I really am."
"Yeah. Me too. But if I hadn't been there, those girls and animals wouldn't have been rescued. That's what I try to remember."
"Good. That's important."
His lips softly landed on mine, and I leaned into the kiss. I used to think he was a complete idiot, but he knows how to treat me.
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Even with the yoga routine, I felt stiff and lethargic. After dinner while everyone else stayed at the main pool, I went around the side of the mansion to the lap pool. It had four Olympic length lanes and a curved lane that went into a circle. I only wanted a peaceful workout, something to get my muscles loose and keep them that way, and since I dislike the turns at the ends of a lane, I chose the circle. Maybe we should install one on the estate.
I was on my third lap when I felt my muscles start to burn. I'd found a rhythm and switched strokes with ever lap.
It was easy to let my mind wander. It didn't go far. My thoughts were filled with Haruhi.
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Tamaki-kun and I asked if Yuki and Akito minded us joining them in the hot tub. They looked truthful when they said they didn't.
The water felt great. I had Tamaki-kun turn sideways, and I knelt behind him to rub his shoulders. He spent too much time on the flight all bent over on his laptop. "MMmmmmm. That's amazing, Renge-chan." I chuckled softly and saw Akito smirk.
"Renge!" Yuki's shout made me start and lean forward. I heard Tamaki-kun hiss as my breasts pressed against his back. "Where's your ring?"
I looked down at my hand, and Tamaki-kun spun in the water. "Did you lose it? Oh, my darling, we'll find it. Have no fear." I pressed my fingers to his mouth.
"I took it off. It's on my nightstand." Everyone's shoulders slumped at once. I held back my laugh. "I didn't want to take the chance I'd lose it in the ocean. Besides, saltwater isn't good for it."
"My brilliant fiancée!" He flung his arms around me and pulled me close. I heard that hiss again. He really is so innocent.
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Taka came back from the lap pool when we were all packing it in. Renge was just about to wake Haruhi up. "I'll carry her." Then he scooped her up and followed Renge and Tamaki back to the bungalows.
The twins and I decided on a late-night swim, so we headed for the beach, but not before we got to see Kasanoda throw Shinobu over his shoulder and take off.
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xXx
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Monday, July 18:
Breakfasts:
"Good morning, Takashi."
I'd woken up in bed and couldn't remember how I'd gotten there. Then, of course, I couldn't go back to sleep.
"Good morning." He turned around and smiled. His coffee cup was steaming and looked good. He must have noticed me staring. "Fresh coffee is on the buffet."
"Great. Mind if I join you?"
"Please."
I grabbed the biggest mug they had along with filling a plate full of western breakfast foods—eggs, bacon, toast, hash-browns. I left the waffles for Honey-senpai. Then, I joined him down in the conversation pit over the water.
"Did you sleep well?"
"Until I realized I didn't know how I got to bed."
"You fell asleep at the pool last night. I carried you instead of Renge waking you up."
My face went hot so fast, my vision blurred a bit. He carried me to bed? "And my clothes?"
Now he flushed bright pink. "Renge must have done that after I left. I only carried you."
"Ah. OK." Not really. I feel like a little kid. "Thanks."
"Anytime."
I finished about half of my food before I stood up to get more coffee. One of the staff was there with a carafe. "So you don't have to come back up." They also handed me a small jug of cream.
"Thanks." I filled both our mugs, adding cream to mine.
Of everyone in the group, Takashi is the easiest to spend time with. We can hold long conversations about anything or sit in complete silence and enjoy the peace and our own thoughts. That's how we spent the next half an hour or so.
No pressure. No agitation. Just peace and quiet with my best friend.
"Hello. Coffee still hot?" It must be a doctor thing. Akito came up so quietly behind us, we both jumped. "Sorry about that."
"It's OK. We were both off in our own worlds watching the water." I pointed to the buffet on the other end of the deck. "Coffee's hot, food's great. Care to join us?"
His face was blank as he stared out at the horizon. One of the security boats was out there going by. At this distance, they don't put me on edge like I thought they would.
"I think I'll take breakfast back to my bungalow and read, but thanks for the offer."
"You're always welcome to join."
He filled up a plate and left.
I wonder if he feels like an outsider. Our main group has a tight age range, and he's above it by about nine years. Still, it's not like he's in his forty's or something.
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I was the first up at the clubhouse this morning and decided to bring a carafe of coffee back to my bungalow and watch the sun come up. That early, coffee was the only thing out.
When I saw Haruhi leaving for the clubhouse, I went over to wake up my darling fiancée, but Renge-chan was already awake and getting dressed. We enjoyed some time in their lounge area before deciding to go for breakfast.
I had more of those dreams last night, and spending time alone kissing Renge-chan this morning didn't help. I might need a cold shower after breakfast.
"It's so sweet of you, Tamaki-kun. Thank you for the coffee."
"You're welcome, Darling."
"And you don't mind about the ring?"
"Of course, not. Can't risk some fish eating it." We decided she'd leave her engagement ring in her bungalow safe for the week. Everyone here knew she was engaged to me. Besides, it's meant for a Suoh not a mermaid.
"Good morning, Haruhi! Mori!" This no honorific thing is going to take some getting used to.
"Good morning, Tamaki. You two get your breakfasts and join us."
Although, I won't deny how good it feels to hear my name without one from Haruhi. It's like a huge step in our friendship.
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Tamaki and Renge joined us with plates of omelets, butter baguette, and more coffee. "So nice to have a French breakfast. It's been so long."
"We'll have them all the time after we're married, Tamaki-kun."
"Thank you, Darling. I look forward to it."
"Tamaki-sen…Tamaki, I would have thought you'd have been awake before me."
He then told us about his early morning watching the sunrise and how he joined Renge after Haruhi left the bungalow. The slight pink shade on his face made be curious about what they'd been up to, but it's none of my business. I have enough problems keeping my thoughts pure about Haruhi.
That's when Chika surprised us all by swimming up to the ladder to the deck. He climbed up, pulled off his goggles, and shook his head like a dog. "Morning," he grunted, then headed for the outdoor shower.
Haruhi raised a brow at me, and I shrugged. "Didn't know he was out for a swim. Might have joined him."
"He probably wanted to be alone." I had to agree. He's more of an introvert than everyone but Haruhi and me.
"I can't believe the Olympics are so close. You must be so excited, Mori." I know we decided to drop the honorifics for the week, but I only want Haruhi to switch from Mori to Takashi. It's curious how everyone else seems to know that.
"Only Five weeks away from Opening Ceremonies, and eight weeks away from the kendo competitions." Saying it that way brought up my worries fresh again.
Haruhi put her hand on my arm. "You'll do well, Takashi. I have no doubt." How does she always know?
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Only about half an hour left until ten. I was swimming longer than I thought, but it felt good to do nothing but count breaths and watch the bottom of the ocean go by. There are a surprising number of fish in the lagoon and just past it.
I'm starving. Filling my plate to almost overflowing, I ate a piece of toast standing at the buffet. Good thing Mother isn't here. I'd never hear the end of it.
"Come down and join us, Satoshi. There's plenty of room," Renge called from the pit over the water. This place has everything.
"How was your swim?"
"Relaxing." I still have enough manners to swallow before trying to talk. "Perfect way to start the morning."
"No coffee?"
"Not while I'm training. I'll stick with juice." I brought a pitcher of orange juice down with me and had already finished half. One of the servers asked if I wanted another but switched to apple. "Coffee gives me an altered impression of my energy levels."
"Oh, hadn't thought of that." No need for her to. She's not a world-class athlete.
"Doesn't mean other athletes don't drink it. It's my personal preference."
I finished the eggs and bacon and went back for waffles and fruit. Even with the juice, I had lots of calories to replace. If I ever stop competing, I'll have to quit eating like this or I'll blow up like a balloon.
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Cho and I woke up late and made it down to breakfast with about twenty minutes to spare. Chika was demolishing the waffles when we picked up our plates.
"There are more waffles being made, Miss," the attendant said as she refilled the eggs. "Should be just a few minutes."
"That's alright. I'd rather the eggs and French toast."
The dining pit was full, so we chose lounge chairs close by. I'm still exhausted after a good night's sleep. Never did handle jetlag well.
"Haruhi, have you seen Akito-kun?"
"He came down earlier and took his breakfast back to his bungalow. Said something about reading. We haven't seen him since."
"Alright." Guess I'll see him a lunch.
Wonder why he didn't come by and get me for breakfast. Does he want to give me more time with my friends? Does he even like my friends? What if he doesn't? What will I do? Give them up?
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There was ten minutes left for the buffet when Satoshi and the twins stumbled in. I held back a smirk as they all grabbed greasy foods: eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns.
I decided to test a theory and walked over for a fresh plate of fruit for the table.
"Good morning!" I yelled, standing right next to them. They all flinched. Yup. Hung over.
"Don't yell, Renge. I have a headache." Hikaru grabbed a handful of ice and rubbed it on his face and forehead.
"Yeah," Kaoru said and poured a mug of coffee, "you're too loud."
"Maybe you shouldn't get drunk," I said quietly.
They all hung their heads and shuffled their feet. "You're not going to tell anyone, are you?" Satoshi looked the guiltiest.
"No, but you're idiots if you think they won't figure it out themselves."
I took the fruit back, and Chika mumbled, "They're hungover, aren't they?"
"Yes."
"Figured when Satoshi didn't come back to the bungalow until after four." He ate another waffle. "Idiots."
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I was beginning to worry about Honey-kun when he ran in still wearing his Usa-chan pajamas.
"Sorry I'm late. Just woke up."
Then he grabbed every last pastry, waffle, and fruit crepe and headed down to the group. Fortunately, by this time Haruhi and Mori had moved to some nearby lounge chairs to give everyone more room.
I called an attendant over and asked for a plate of tomatoes, vegetable stuffed omelet, grilled asparagus, and bacon. "You have to eat real food too, Honey-kun. Don't want to stop growing, do you?"
I held back a laugh at the horrified look on his face. "No, I don't." He pushed the sweets away. "I'll eat your stuff first."
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The attendant came over to ask Takashi and me if we wanted more coffee, but we both decided to switch to water. Chika had a point.
"Have you seen a guy with shoulder-length, red hair and a girl with waist long black hair this morning?"
"I believe that's the bungalow that ordered in this morning around nine."
"Oh. Thanks."
That answers the question where Kasanoda and Shinobu are. Glad they're not still asleep.
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xXx
.
Afternoon, Jet Skis:
Guessing they wouldn't figure it out for themselves, I pulled the twins, Satoshi, Chika, Ritsu, and Takashi over for a private talk. I wanted to catch them before we started the jet skis.
"I'm not sure what you think, but I'm positive Akito will be proposing to Yuki within the next few months."
"Sooner than that, I'm guessing."
"Definitely."
"Alright. We need to start including Akito more in our activities."
"He's here, isn't he?" Clearly, Hikaru isn't getting the point.
"Yes, but he ate breakfast on his own this morning. I think he feels like he's not a part of the group."
"Yeah," Ritsu nodded, "I can see that."
"Good. I just want you guys to include him in what you're up to this week."
"Haruhi, do you really think he would have wanted to join us swimming and getting drunk last night?"
I stared at Hikaru. "No. But then neither would Honey, Takashi, or Chika. That's why you didn't invite them. I'm talking about group activities." I looked at the group. "We're getting ready to use the jet skis. Make sure he knows he's welcome. That he's not joining us, but he's already part of the group. That he's automatically included."
"Hn."
"Alright. I get it." I knew Karou would.
"Let's go."
.
"OK. There are eight jet-skis. Security told us that they'll be using one so they can keep an eye on us and help if needed. That leaves seven. We'll do this in pairs."
"Tamaki-kun and I will take one."
"Cho-chan's riding with me."
They paired off in couples or obvious pairings. Haruhi and Mori were the odd ones out, just as planned. They paired up.
"Akito, you and Yuki take one." There, Haruhi, I included him.
"I asked the estate manager to set up a racecourse for two at a time. To make an even bracket, security will be racing with us. I drew up a bracket using the numbers of the jet-skis, so put on your helmets and pick one."
.
Sota and I watched from the shallows. Sitting on a lounge chair with the water covering my belly was helping not only my back, but my swollen feet.
He was cheering them on but was asking to ride one every three minutes.
"Sota, all the jet-skis are out there and full. You'll have to wait until the race is over." I'll let his lifeguard take him then. He's off to the side now, bored out of his mind. He can't even watch the races because he can't take his eyes off Sota.
"Alright, first up, Mori and Haruhi against Tamaki and Renge."
It wasn't much of a challenge. Tamaki went so slow, I assume because he was worried about Renge falling off. Mori and Haruhi won by a full ten seconds.
"Next, us against security."
The twins won. Security was there just to fill the bracket. They made it a close race, but they wanted to be watching over the kids, not racing with them.
"Honey and Cho verses Kasanoda and Shinobu."
That was a slaughter. Honey had no idea how to drive one of those. He should have asked for a run-through before the race started.
"It's alright, Honey-kun. I got to ride with you. That's what I wanted most of all."
"And last, Akito and Yuki against Chika and Satoshi."
That was a surprise to the kids. Akito and Yuki won by a full length. Experience versus youth. I bet Akito didn't tell any of them he loves water sports.
"Mom…the race is over. I want to ride."
"Not yet, Sweetheart. That was just the first bracket."
I was explaining how brackets work when Mori and Haruhi beat the twins. They were holding back. I think they want those two on the jet-ski together longer. Despite wanting my younger brother to be happy, Mori is a better match for Haruhi.
Sota was cheering for Akito and Yuki, but Kasanoda and Shinobu won by a hair. Yuki was holding Akito tight with her face against his back. Maybe she didn't like the speed.
For the finals, Kasanoda and Shinobu beat Mori and Haruhi. Sota was cheering for Haruhi, so he was disappointed twice.
"Mom…"
"Please don't whine, Sota. I'm sure some of them are finished with their jet-skis."
"Let's go wait on the dock, Sota-sama. We'll take the first one out that we can." He took his guard's hand and practically flew to the dock. It's too bad Umeji had to work this week. He'd be able to play with Sota. I'm just too big and awkward, and it's only going to get worse.
.
"Drop me off at the dock, Asshole. I'll grab one for myself."
"Sure thing." I'm assuming either Tamaki and Renge or Honey and Cho are done, and she'll take one of those.
We pulled up, and Bu hopped off. It surprised me when the twins came up next and both of them got off.
"There has to be something to eat around here."
"You just ate lunch, Hika."
"So?"
Before they even got to the beach, Bu hopped on their jet-ski and took off. That's when I heard the kid. "But you said we'd take the first empty one."
"I'm sure Shinobu-sama didn't see you waiting. We'll take the next one."
"But I want to go on a jet-ski now."
Couldn't blame the kid, and the guard was right. Bu didn't notice them waiting.
"Hey, kiddo," still can't remember his name, "I'll take you out for a spin."
He didn't even check with his guard before running up. "You need a helmet, just like me."
"Kasanoada-sama, you don't have to…"
"It's alright. I want to." I lowered my voice. "I'll go slower, but fast enough that he thinks we're going real fast. And I'll stay near the other security."
"I know Sota-sama appreciates it." Sota. That's his name. Gotta remember that.
"I'm ready!" He bounced up wearing a helmet and life vest. I could throw him off, and he'd still be safe.
"Get on. Let's go."
.
I pulled up to where the rest of the group was floating on their jet-skis. Do these guys need direction or something? Why are they just bobbing in the lagoon?
"Hey, girls, drop your guys off at the doc and come back. Let's have a girl's race."
"Great idea!" Renge grabbed Tamaki around the waist, "Take me to the doc, Tamaki-kun." They were off in a flash. I'm not sure he even understood what's going on, but only followed her orders.
"I'll give it a try."
"Are you sure, Cho-chan? You've never driven one of these."
"It will be fine. There's security and lifeguards everywhere. I'll be safe."
"OK." Honey headed for the dock at a slow pace. I wonder if she'll be any faster.
"You can stay here, Yuki. I'll swim back."
"But Akito…"
He did what had to be the best shallow dive I've ever seen, then helped her to the front. "You'll do fine. Turn this handle to…"
Mori decided to take Haruhi back to the dock. I'm sure he'll give her a tutorial too.
.
I hurried over to Fuyumi-sama to explain why her son was out on a jet-ski without me.
"What the hell is going on?"
"Kasanoda-sama offered to take him out. Sota-sama's wearing a helmet and life vest. Kasanoda-sama assured me he wouldn't go fast, and they'd stay near the other security. I'll go out on the next available jet-ski and stay close to them."
I watched them going around the lagoon. Sota kept screaming and laughing, waiving his hands in the air, but the jet-ski was not going that fast, Sota just thinks it is.
"You should have asked me first. These kids are responsible, but I do not like entrusting them with the life of my child. Get out there."
"Yes, Fuyumi-sama." He bowed at ran back to the dock. Just as he got there, Chika and Satoshi were pulling up. They gave him their jet-ski.
"What's going on?" I asked as they walked up.
"Girls are going to race. We decided to get out of there before they ran into us."
Chika nodded. "None of them except Shinobu have ever driven anything close to a jet-ski."
"What about Kasanoda? He's out there with my son."
Satoshi looked me straight in the eyes. "Sota's safe. Kasanoda would never do anything to put him at risk. I'm sure of it."
Being reassured by the two youngest shouldn't have made me feel better, but it did. Probably because of the families they come from.
"Thanks. I appreciate that."
.
This kid is sitting in front of me, waiving his arms, and screaming about how much fun this is. I could run faster than I'm driving right now. There's no way he's in any danger.
"Faster! Faster!"
"OK, kiddo. Hold tight."
I upped the speed by a kilometer/hour.
.
Haruhi finally made it back out to the starting line.
"Alright, girls. Ritsu and Sota are going to start us. Listen for the kid's countdown."
They'd putted by earlier, and I got them to help. Kid thought it was a great idea to call the race.
"Three…"
"Two…"
"One…"
"GO!"
I took off like a shot and cleared the finish line in about thirty seconds.
Swinging around I saw why the boys did all the driving so far.
.
Hika and I called up for some snacks and sat down on some lounge chairs under an umbrella.
Front row seating to a disaster.
As anyone with two braincells could have predicted, Shinobu won by about ten meters. Renge was next. Again, not a surprise.
Yuki gave it a good try but didn't get off the line fast and couldn't get up to speed.
I don't know what the hell Cho's doing. It's like she doesn't know she's in a race. Hasn't crossed the finish line yet.
Then, there's Haruhi, who stalled right on the starting line. She's just sitting there like she doesn't even know how to start the thing. Maybe she doesn't.
"Congrats, you crazy chick!"
"Thanks, but it's not like there's any real competition."
Kasanoda leaned over and gave her a kiss but held tight to Sota. Those two are going to make interesting parents one day.
Security pulled up to Haruhi, and she slid off into the water. "I'll swim back. I want off that thing."
Is it because it's driving? I know she still doesn't like being in a car.
.
xXx
.
After the Races:
These financials are more difficult than I thought.
Oh, well. I was never going to run the thing myself. A good manager and independent auditor will handle it.
I heard yelling and looked up at the ocean. The twins, Satoshi, Kasanoda-senpai, and Shinobu-senpai were out on two speedboats. Doesn't look like they're doing anything productive, just going fast.
Mitsukuni and Cho-senpai are helping Sota-kun build a sandcastle. Apparently, the alien decided there needs to be a castle-sized rabbit next to it.
I'm surprised to find out Tamaki-senpai snores. He and Renge are asleep a ways up the beach under an umbrella. Either he snores really loud, or the breeze is carrying the sound.
Haruhi-senpai, Yuki-senpai, and Akito-san all went back to shower and change clothes. Guess they're done with the ocean for the day. Salt water is sticky, so I rinsed off at the outdoor shower on the dock. They haven't come back yet. I bet Haruhi-senpai fell asleep on her deck. She's like a cat—curl up and sleep anywhere.
I decided not to comment on the book Takashi is reading. He's under the umbrella with me and keeps looking puzzled. It's in English and one of Haruhi-senpai's favorites.
I think the plan is working.
.
xXx
.
Evening:
We were all sitting around the clubhouse talking, goofing off, snacking despite stuffing ourselves during dinner, and basically relaxing.
Then I had an idea.
Haruhi wanted us to include Akito in more things.
"Hey, Akito. Do you know how to play hell?"
Satoshi went back to his bungalow to get the cards. Kasanoda and Shinobu pulled their security guys into it.
That's how sixteen of us ended up at the table slamming cards and bitching about Haruhi throwing herself on the table.
"Haruhi, seriously, sit your ass down."
"Fuck, Hika. You took my move."
"Tough shit." Just getting him back for all the times he took mine.
"Crap."
"Tamaki, would you play that seven. It's been sitting there forever."
"Sorry."
I managed to get there before Cho and played an eight and nine.
"Nuts."
"Such harsh language, Cho."
She just blew a raspberry at Shinobu.
"Out!"
And Chika wins again.
.
"Hey, everyone! Watch this!"
We all turned and saw Satoshi sliding backwards and splashing into the ocean headfirst.
Idiot.
"I can top that!" Then Kasanoda-senpai slid down on his knees and launched himself at the end.
"Yeah, well, check this out." Hikaru-senpai slid down on his feet like a surfer.
I could see Yuki-senpai out of the corner of my eye taking pictures. "Yuki-senpai, you're not posting those live to the internet, are you?"
Her face lit up with a smile, as he held out her phone, "Not even connected." She took another then said, "Chika, we agreed to drop honorifics this week."
"I know. It's a hard habit to break." Plus, it just doesn't feel right. I suppose I'm the most formal here.
"Give it a try, Chika. Say my name three times without it."
Alright. Here goes. "Haruhi. Haruhi. Haruhi." Her name does feel good without it.
"Good." She grabbed my wrist and pulled me out of the chair. "Now, do something silly on the slide. You need to stop with your phone."
I heaved a sigh and agreed. I'm not getting news updates here as regularly as I'm used to, so my trades will not be as informed.
Climbing up to the roof, I couldn't come up with anything weird to do, and I'm not sure I want to continue coming up with things. I went down on my stomach, headfirst, and took off swimming when I hit the water.
"Chika! Get back here or else!"
"Or else what, Satoshi?" I yelled back. What's he going to do? Hit me with his shinai?
"Or else this…" He slid down and took off after me.
"Oh, it's on." I can outswim him any day.
.
"Put me down, Asshole!"
Great picture. Kasanoda's holding Shinobu and sliding down. They hit the water, and both went under.
Shinobu surfaced sputtering. "You asshole! I'm not even wearing a suit!"
"Shit. Thought you had one under that."
"No, you moron!"
She slogged over to the ladder where Renge tossed her a towel. I wisely didn't take any pictures of her in that dress clinging to her and clearly showing her black underwear.
Once she wrapped the towel around her, she took off for her bungalow. "Good night!"
"I better go calm her down."
I wouldn't. Talk about putting your head in the lion's mouth.
"I think I'll turn in as well."
"Good night, Takashi. Good night, all," Haruhi said, gathering her things as well and leaving the clubhouse in the other direction.
"Yuki, would you like to take a walk on the beach."
Every time I saw him, my stomach flopped. Akito's wearing only board shorts. I swallowed hard looking at his abs.
"Sounds great."
.
Honey-kun and I sat down on the deck of Yuki's and my bungalow. From here we could see Satoshi and Chika splashing around in the moonlight. Chika's probably counting this as a workout.
"Cho-chan?"
"Mmm?"
"Do you think it's time for my parents to approach your father again about a marriage contract?"
"I was thinking about that earlier. I think the best time would be after this semester's over. You'll have finished several business classes, and the bakeries will be even more established and profitable."
"I don't want to wait that long."
"I don't either, but I want to be sure of his answer."
"Alright, but only until then. I love you, Cho-chan. I don't want to wait."
I jumped up and slid onto his lap. Throwing my arms around him, I said, "I love you, too," then kissed him.
Amazing kisses like this are even better without frosting.
.
"Sorry, Bu. I really thought you had one on under that."
I only heard a growl from her bathroom. She'd come in and went straight to the shower mumbling something about having to wash her hair again.
"What can I do to make it up to you?"
Just splashing and another growl.
"Bu…"
"I'm thinking, Asshole."
Standing here in her bedroom doorway isn't going to help, so I headed for the lounge and started pacing.
Got carried away. Idiot. Shouldn't have done that. She probably wouldn't have liked it even if she was in a suit under that dress. Thought it was a fucking swimsuit cover thing.
Ten minutes later, she came into the lounge. Her hair pulled back and braided tight and wearing a robe.
"I'll forgive you, Ritsu, if you help me with something."
"Anything."
Then the robe dropped.
And I swallowed hard.
"Is that a leather corset?"
.
"There has to be one up here somewhere."
"What if we wake someone up?"
"I'm sure it has sound dampeners."
"But Renge-chan…"
"Here it is." I pulled Tamaki into the conservatory and closed the door behind us. A beautiful white grand piano stood up on a platform.
I walked over, making sure to swish my hips a bit, and turned the bench long-ways. "Play for me."
And he did.
Leaning back against his chest, I hummed along while he nibbled on my neck. How can he concentrate on both?
Can he still concentrate if I do this?
Slowly, I turned around and straddled his lap, pulling close enough to hear him hiss at the friction. He missed a note but kept going.
"Renge-chan, what are you doing?"
"I love you so much, Tamaki. I want to be close to you."
I started with his ear. Gently kissing the shell, I got him to shiver. "Renge-chan…"
"Shhh. Just enjoy." The music slowed down. "Keep playing for me."
Next, my hands went up the back of his shirt. The muscles rippled under my touch. Can't take it off if I want him to keep playing, so I just stroked his back.
He hit another wrong note as my mouth moved across his jaw. "Keep playing," I whispered.
Then, I got a devilish idea. I unbuttoned his shirt and trailed my lips down his neck.
"Renge-chan…"
I made it down to the hollow in his throat and licked.
"Renge-chan…"
My thumbs rubbed across his nipples, and he jerked back with a crash of notes.
"Renge-chan, please stop." His teeth were clenched, and he's shaking from holding back.
Maybe that was a bit cruel.
I brought my head back up and kissed him gently on the lips. "I love you."
"I love you too. You're making me insane."
I cocked my head to the side and gave him a half smile. "I hope so."
He shocked me when he gave a half growl, half roar, lifted me up, and set my butt down on the keys with a crash.
"I love you so much."
Then he was kissing me like never before. His tongue stroking mine, gliding across my teeth, swirling around my mouth. I kissed back, but he took charge.
My legs wrapped around his waist, and he pulled me tighter.
I love this man so much.
.
"I just want to go to sleep, Karou."
"But Hika…"
He spun and yelled in my face, "Can you feel it? There are hormones everywhere. Everyone's a couple, and I'm tired of feeling sorry for myself."
Pointing out that there are some single guys in the group is not the right response. He wouldn't listen anyway.
"Alright. How about we shoot a bunch of aliens first."
"OK. Is there any beer left?"
"Yeah."
.
Tweet: #Rankas is fantastic. You have to try the disco [pics attached of the disco and stage]
Tweet: #Rankas is the hottest new place in Tokyo [attached article from trendy magazine]
Everything's going well. All my managers have reported no problems and those tweets are a very small sampling of my exploding hashtag.
Another success.
I plugged my phone in and laid down to sleep.
My mind wandered to the feel of Haruhi's hands around my waist as we raced on the jet-ski. Those small hands holding tight as my muscles twitched.
I hope I dream about her.
.
xXx
.
Nightly Security Briefing (Security referred to by family last name):
Morinozuka (Ishikawa): Any issues to report?
Yacht #1: Nothing close all day. Couple sailboats passed by in the distance.
Yacht #2: Same
Yacht #3: Same. Quiet. Caught several fish. Will grill for lunch.
Hitachiin: Sounds good. I rotate onto your yacht tomorrow. Looking forward to it.
Kasanoda (Tetsuya): Nothing to report from the group. Same crazy kids and pairings.
Suoh: Not sure about the rest of you that head the kid's details, but I brought a bunch of condoms just in case. If you want some to leave in your primary's room, let me know.
Himura (Kono): Brought my own
Kasanoda (Tetsuya): Same
Morinozuka (Ishikawa): Alright. Let me run through some reminders. Those of you out on the water, your primary concern is keeping people away from the island. Fishing is a good cover, but don't let it take away from your duties.
Those of you on the island, your main concern is the keep the kids safe, not babysit them. Unless they are doing something dangerous, don't stop them. That said, condoms aren't a bad idea. We've got one engaged couple and three that are practically there.
Houshakuji: I can guarantee the girls will sneak away at some point for girl time.
Haninozuka: The boys too.
Morinozuka (Ishikawa): When that happens, remember to split the guards by gender too. And keep mixed gender guards with the group is mixed.
Ootori: The kids were at the clubhouse tonight trying to outdo each other off the slide. Suggest we have one more lifeguard around them. Never know what they'll do.
Hitachiin: Yeah. Some of them are injury prone.
Morinozuka (Ishikawa): So far, no injuries. Let's keep it that way. Questions?
There were none.
.
xXx
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Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Ouran High School Host Club. I also do not own, nor am I making any money from, the following: Olympics, Lego, Duplo, Scrabble, any real restaurant, business, artist, food product, movie, or really anything else that exists. I do, however, own any original characters and the plot of this story.
Author's Note:
Finally made it to the island. This vacation is going to be longer than I thought. Maybe even a couple more chapters. Let me know if it's too much, but I'm having a blast writing it.
Lots of romance in the air. Is there a particular couple you'd like to see go all the way before marriage? I have plans, but they could be adjusted…maybe.
Thought Ritsu's and Bu's talk behind the waterfall was overdue. Not sure how much of that would have been in their contract, but they still need to discuss it. There's a reason. Everyone else would have been surprised they weren't talking about something steamy.
Monday breakfast took a long time but wanted to show the differences among their reactions to being at the island. I probably won't do it that much in depth again.
Inducting Akito to hell…guess he's a real part of the group now.
Images (remove spaces):
Pool Eating Area: pinterest pin /354517801925507426/
Clubhouse (Had this up on the screen when writing those scenes): pinterest pin /354517801925506957/
Bungalow Layout: pinterest pin /354517801925668162/
Hammock in the ocean: pinterest pin /354517801925506725/
Lap Pool: pinterest pin /653866439650758348/
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Next Chapter:
More island, more smooching, more water sports, and a surprise happening in Europe.
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