Author's Note: Welcome back to Book 4 of the 'Last Straw' saga, or as I've taken to calling it… 'The Ouran Soap Opera'. I'm about six chapters ahead right now, and hope to stay at least three as I move forward. My current plans are to keep with the same posting schedule – Saturday nights. Haven't missed one yet, so I'd hate to break my record.

Lean back and enjoy…and leave me a review, please.

.

xXx

.

Date Posted: 9/27/2020

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Way Forward - Chapter 1: Tourists and Shoppers

.

Sunday, April 10:

Dinner, Cho Mansion:

"Is there something wrong with Haninozuka Mitsukuni?" Father asked. "Does he have a mental issue?"

Mother shook her head and looked down at her plate. Father stared at me, waiting for an answer. Where did this come from?

"Of course not. Whatever gave you a ridiculous idea like that?"

"Are you serious, Nomura? He's twenty years old, carries around a stuffed rabbit, and acts like an elementary student even though he's in his second year of university. Explain to me how he's normal."

"Honey-kun likes cute things. What's wrong with that?"

I turned to my left. "Mother?" Her face lifted and she shook her head minutely at me.

"Where is this coming from? We've been dating for months!"

Father threw his napkin onto the table and leaned back in his chair. "Nomura," he snapped, "sit still and be quiet. I'm asking this because you are obviously so blind that you don't see how bad a match this is for you." His eyes flicked over to Mother, and he continued. "We've been waiting for you to realize this on your own. He's not right for you."

"Sweetheart." Mother's voice was thick, so she cleared her throat and tried again. "Sweetheart, we know you care for Mitsukuni-kun very much but try to see this from your father's point of view."

I think I'm in shock. My hands are tingling, and I can't feel my fingers. Mother's voice is echoing through my head.

"Have you felt this way all this time?" I'm startled by the smallness of my own voice.

Mother's coffee cup clattered on her saucer, and Father took a deep breath. "Yes. I didn't think you'd get so attached to a child."

"He's not a child." This time I was startled by the anger in my voice. I stood up and slammed my hands on the table. "He's a man, and I love him."

The room went quiet. Did I just say that? I felt heat radiating off my face.

One of the maids walked in from the kitchen, turned, and walked back out. She obviously felt the heavy tension.

I collapsed back into my chair.

"You love him?" Mother asked.

Do I? A second ago, I practically yelled it in my father's face.

I glared at my father. "I wasn't sure before, but I am now. Having to defend him to you convinced me."

His shoulders went ridged, and he looked away from me. I did my best to not fidget as he thought through this. The ball's in his court now.

When he looked back at me, his eyes were hard and narrow. I knew I wasn't going to like this.

"You say he's a man. I say he's a child. We can't both be right." He held up his hand to stop the argument on the tip of my tongue. "I only want what's best for you Nomura. Having a husband that you have to take care of is not what's best."

"But Father…"

"If he loves you, he must prove himself to me," he continued. "I want to be sure he can take care of you, take care of your children. Not be another child you have to raise."

I know he loves me. He hasn't said it yet, but he does. There's not a doubt in my mind he can do that.

"How?"

"I'll know it when I see it."

.

xXx

.

Dinner, Suoh Manion #1:

As the main course was served, I covertly watched my mother and my son. She was tolerating his presence, and he was walking on eggshells. If it's going to be like this from now on, Tamaki should have stayed put.

"Are all your things moved in?"

"Yes, Father. Thank you."

That awkward silence descended again. Our ivory chopsticks clinking against the china the only noises.

Tamaki started when Mother spoke. "The engagement is receiving positive comments in the press. The proposal last night was appropriate."

I hope Tamaki realized that's high praise coming from her. I looked over and his smile practically blinded me. He does.

"Thank you, Grandmother. Renge-chan and I are honored by your approval."

I cleared my throat. "Tamaki, now that you're living here, there are several things to discuss."

"Yes, Sir?"

"Shima has come over and will continue to manage your house. She'll oversee the maids and your French chef you brought with you." I tilted my head and almost winked at him. "She'll also act as your chaperone when Renge-chan visits."

"There will be no scandals in the press," Mother intoned.

"Of course not, Grandmother."

"Your two security teams already work well together but will become even more integrated. Your team numbers will also increase when you leave the mansion, especially when Renge-chan is with you. With the graduation and engagement, your public profile has increased."

"Yes, Sir."

"Your grandmother and I would like for you and Renge-chan to join us for dinner Thursday. There is much to discuss. Plan on staying after dinner."

"Yes, Sir."

.

After dinner, I floated on air up to my new rooms. Father and Grandmother had assigned me my own wing of the mansion.

Despite what some may think, I'm not a big enough idiot to not realize I'm relegated to my own wing to stay out of my Grandmother's way. It doesn't matter. I'm living here in Suoh Mansion #1, and I will make the best of it.

Over the next week, I'll be redecorating and reorganizing the wing to match my new status as an adult and engaged man. There will be a business office and library, guest rooms, a formal lounge, an informal lounge with a TV and games, and, of course, Shima's quarters. I had the master bedroom redone before I moved in.

I walked over to the desk in my room and leafed through all the newspapers and tabloids. They were covered in pictures from the red-carpet last night. I was shocked my darling friend Haruhi turned and waved. I must have someone contact that photographer for the digital file of that picture.

And there's my proposal. The love of my life said yes, and the future opened up and became alive. Large prints are already being made of those to hang in my wing. The family photographer got the entire proposal.

I'll just take Antoinette out back and throw the ball for her before I study that marriage contract for Yuki that Kyoya sent over.

My life has completely changed in 48 hours, and I'm so excited.

.

xXx

.

Cho Estate:

NoNoNoNoNoNoNo….

What am I going to do?

Why did Father wait so long?

Why can't he see what I see?

How can I tell Honey-kun?

What am I going to do?

…

There was a light tapping on the door. "Young Mistress?"

"Go away." I can't stop crying…sobbing.

My future's empty.

"Young Mistress? Is there anything I can do for you?"

"Eri?"

"Yes, Mistress. May I help?"

With a huge effort, I managed to crawl out of bed and unlock the door. Eri immediately engulfed me in a hug and shut the door behind her.

She led me over to my bed, her hand combing through my hair the whole time.

"Please sit, Mistress." Eri's been my personal maid for as long as I can remember. I'm closer to her than I am to my mother, than I am to Keiko. "I heard the gossip. I'm so sorry."

"What am I going to do?"

"We'll think of something. Don't worry. There's always a solution."

"I love him so much. I can't live without him."

She held me while I sobbed on her shoulder. My future's ruined.

.

My poor mistress. She's been in love with Honey-sama for a long time and just realized it herself.

The master can be such a cruel man. He indulges her every whim and then does this. And the mistress is no better going blindly along with him and not warning my mistress.

I held Nomura-sama for what seemed like at least an hour when she finally started to slow down.

"I can't tell Honey-kun to grow up. He's already an adult." She's still crying, and her words are coming out between gasps. "It's not fair. It's not fair!"

"Shhhhh." I rubbed her back and tightened my hold. "We'll think of something."

The poor dear finally cried herself to sleep, and I tucked her in.

This has broken her heart.

.

xXx

.

Monday, April 11:

Breakfast, Somewhere in Japan:

"I can't believe you read those trashy things."

"You never know what you'll find in them."

She handed it over with an article circled. "Does the name sound familiar?"

"Fujioka Haruhi?" My head jerked up and our eyes locked. "As in Fujioka Ryouji's daughter?"

"Yes. It's her."

"What's she doing on a red carpet?"

She read me the article, and my heart sped up. I wasn't sure we'd ever get the chance to see her.

"I'll do some research on the Internet."

"Yes. We need to know more. We'll only have one chance to introduce ourselves."

.

xXx

.

Ala Moana Center Shopping Mall, Hawaii:

"I feel guilty leaving them all behind."

"Nonsense, Yuki. Those men can entertain themselves. Besides, there are maids there to keep them out of trouble."

As promised, I'd taken Yuki out shopping. The poor thing didn't bring that much with her to our estate, and when I asked, she said she brought everything. We'll be fixing her wardrobe problems over the school break, starting today.

"This is the largest shopping center on the islands, with more than 300 stores. I'm sure we can find you something to wear."

"Thank you again, Fuyumi-san."

"No need. I love any excuse to shop." I pointed to a swimwear boutique. "Let's go spend some of Kyoya's money."

"But I already have a couple swimsuits."

"One pieces, and they're boring. You need a bikini. Akito will love it."

She blushed fiercely but didn't object. It took the whole way here to convince her to use the card Kyoya gave her. We're going to have fun.

.

By lunch time, I was exhausted. Fuyumi-san must have pulled me into at least thirty stores. Swimwear was just the beginning. I'll never need six bikinis, but I now have them. Once we found enough casual clothes to fill a couple of suitcases, I'd started to have fun.

Shoes were next. Sandals, walking shoes, heels, something Haruhi'd called sneakers, and some beach shoes. Good thing the driver was following us, taking our purchases out to the car.

Lunch was local seafood. Quite different from Japanese preparation.

"So," she looked at me with big eyes, "what do you think of Akito? Are wedding bells in the future?"

I fought a blush but felt my heart speed up. "He's very nice."

"And…"

I set my fork down and clasped my hands together on my lap. "Please don't think I'm ungrateful. This is the first big decision in my life I'm allowed to make on my own. I just don't want to make the wrong one."

"You take all the time you need. Akito will wait patiently. He's a great guy." Her smile was earnest and gentle.

"Thank you."

We both started eating again.

"Now that that question is out of the way, are you having fun in Hawaii so far?"

Now that's a topic I can discuss. "Yes, I am. I know we've only been on the plane, seen the mansion, and shopped, but I can tell this will be amazing. I hardly ever went along with Mother and Father on their vacations, and I'm looking forward to all the new experiences."

"This week is packed with experiences. We're all going to have a great time."

As we left the restaurant, I asked, "What's next?"

"Let's get a makeover!"

.

xXx

.

Cho Estate:

Eri was sitting by my bed when I woke up.

"Ahhhhh." I grabbed my head. "I feel terrible."

The pounding in my head eased as she draped a cold towel over my forehead and eyes.

That's when I remembered.

"Honey-kun," I moaned. "What am I going to do?"

"First, you're going to wash your face with cold water and take these aspirin." Eri handed me a glass of water and the pills.

She stood and went towards the door. "When I come back, you'll eat your brunch. Then your mind will be clear, and you can solve this."

She always knows what I need to hear.

.

My mistress slammed her teacup onto her saucer. "I can't ask him to be something he's not. I want to marry Honey-kun, not my father's version of him."

She stood and walked to the window. "He's perfect the way he is. He's not a child…at all."

Now she's pacing the room. Her voice is filled with anger, not misery. "How dare Father wait this long and then do this." A pillow from the sofa flew across the room. "He doesn't even know what he wants to see!" Another pillow. "Honey-kun has to change but no one knows into what? How is that even possible?"

I watched proudly as she spun around, marched up to me, put her hands on her hips, and said, "I'm not going to tell Honey-kun to grow up. I'm not going to tell him to change who he is.

"I must make Father and Mother see what I see.

"I need a plan."

.

xXx

.

Yasuchika's room, Morinozuka Estate:

"And now I own a chain of bakeries."

Never expected to say that.

Ayanokoji-san made it pathetically easy. With absolutely no business sense, she's been running it into the ground and borrowing against the company. I bought the debt.

She's also in debt with one of her suppliers. Unfortunately for her, I own quite a bit of stock in that company. I bought that debt too.

Her husband had no idea the business was in trouble, so when my lawyer confronted her, she sold it to me for practically nothing. He told me she was so relieved to get out from under the debt without her husband finding out.

Too bad she didn't think of a non-disclosure clause for the contract. The alien and I can make it public and bloody when we announce the takeover. He won't want to do something that cruel. However, once I tell him what Seika-senpai did to Haruhi-senpai, I'll have to hold him back.

Not bad for a day's worth of work.

Now, how to I ruin the father?

.

xXx

.

Hawaii:

"Uncle Kyoya! Uncle Kyoya!"

I turned to see my brother-in-law coming down the steps to the beach. Don't think I've ever seen him this casual—swim trunks and a t-shirt. And no laptop. I've never seen that.

"Sota!" he called back and scooped my son up and spun him around.

"Help me build my sandcastle, please."

"Sure."

Akito joined me watching the two of them.

"Kyoya sure has changed."

"Definitely. He became so hard when he took over the company. It was Father's death that made him realize he was turning into him."

"I was surprised when he asked us to be Yuki-chan's guardians and offered to pay for it."

"And I was surprised he didn't want her for himself. She's…precious."

I hid my smirk. There will definitely be a proposal soon. Those two were made for each other. Akito who wants a partner, and Yuki who wants someone to let her spread her wings. Not sure about kids though. Since there's no need for heirs, they may wait a while.

Akito shook his head and pulled his gaze from the horizon. "Sota's growing so fast. I'm ashamed I haven't been part of his life."

"You weren't ready. Now you are. Spend your time enjoying him, not regretting the past." I drank some water and lit a cigarette.

"I thought you'd quit."

Pulling a long drag of smoke into my lungs, I sighed. "I did. I just have one every once in a while, and never around Fuyumi."

"What about Sota? It's a disgusting and unhealthy example."

I was halfway done so I put it out in the sand. "He's way over there and so wrapped up in Kyoya he wouldn't notice if a shark ate us."

Akito chuckled and stood up. "I think I'll help with the castle."

"Have fun."

They've both changed. For the better. I remember when Akito didn't even acknowledge Sota's existence. Now he's over there letting him bury his feet in sand.

Hope the ladies are having fun shopping and remember it all has to fit on the plane.

.

None of them noticed the photographer behind some of the landscaping.

.

xXx

.

Nozuka Hospital:

"That's quite a story."

Haruhi had just finished telling me about her background with the Host Club. The debt, the general craziness, and then the injury that started all the changes.

"I was so angry. They never saw me as my own person. It took a dislocated shoulder to make me see how toxic it all was."

She went on to talk about how they worked through the issues and became closer.

"It's still a work in progress. The twins, especially Hikaru, will forget to ask before a hug. Tamaki-senpai and Honey-senpai too. But not nearly as much as they did in the beginning. The most important thing is that they see me as a person now. They ask my opinion and listen. I haven't been forced into an activity in over a year."

"Sounds like you're a huge influence in their lives."

"They tell me I've changed them. That they're glad they met me."

From the way she talks about them, I can tell she's impacted them.

"Our time is almost up. How are you doing after that discussion?"

Haruhi took her time answering me. "I feel raw. I haven't talked about all that for a while. I thought it was behind me."

"Maybe not completely, but your relationships are much healthier now."

"That's true."

"Spend some time decompressing, and we'll talk more on Thursday."

.

xXx

.

Hawaii:

"Did you boys have fun today?" my sister asked as she and Yuki-chan came out onto the back patio.

"Mom! Uncle Kyoya and Uncle Akito helped me build a sandcastle and then we flew in a helicopter."

Sota was dancing around Fuyumi and chattering a mile a minute.

"A helicopter?" She looked over at Umeji, questioning the safety of their son.

Kyoya took pity on him. "Akito, Umeji, and I took Sota to Volcanos National Park and saw the lava from the helicopter. He was perfectly safe."

While Sota told her all about the lava and flying around, I couldn't keep my eyes off Yuki. She'd worn some of her new clothes back, and she was stunning. Dark purple shorts that didn't make it to mid-thigh and a lavender top that bared her midriff.

I walked over and took the box out of her hands. "Let me help with that."

"Thanks. When we passed this store, the smell was incredible. I brought some home for dessert tonight."

"Cinnabon?" I sniffed the box. "Never heard of it, but they smell great."

The butler came up to us with a bag. "No," she gasped. "Don't let Sota-kun see that. It's a surprise for later if he gets bored."

Lego sets. Of course.

.

"You look nice in your new clothes."

Nice? Akito-kun thinks I look nice. I was going for sexy or at least cute, but nice?

"Thank you." I spun around so he could get the entire view. The shorts are a little shorter than I'm used to, but they're actually comfortable.

We ended up on the opposite end of the patio from everyone else. "Did you enjoy yourself?"

"I did, but it seems you had more fun. A sandcastle?"

"My first." He smiled at me. It's such a genuine smile. "Then the kid buried me up to my knees and ran around taunting me."

I didn't even try to hold back the laughter. "I wish I'd seen that."

"Umeji took pictures and some video for Fuyumi." He smirked as he looked at the group at the other end of the patio. "And for blackmail purposes too."

My laughter rang out again, and he smiled again.

.

xXx

.

Tuesday, April 12:

Commoner Shopping Mall:

"Oh, Haruhi-chan, you need some new sandals for summer."

I led her into the shoe store and started picking them up. "This one and this one and this one."

"I only have two feet, Umeko-san." She's so cute sometimes.

"And months of summer to wear all these shoes." I picked up another pair. "Kaoru may want you wearing commoner clothes, but not the same ones all the time. You need to be seen in a different outfit each time."

She's not protesting as much anymore. I've always wanted a daughter to dress up and have convinced her to let me buy her clothes.

"That one's cute." She pointed to one with no heel.

After the fifteenth pair of sandals, I could tell she'd had enough. We'll have to shop again another time. She'll need twice that for the summer.

"That's her! That's the Hitachiin model!"

Her forehead puckered as she nodded to Eiji to let them through. As the face of Kaoru's line, she must be friendly and accessible, especially in a commoner's clothing store.

"Fujioka! Are you Fujioka Haruhi?"

"Yes. I'm honored you recognized me." She bowed shallowly.

They spoke for a few minutes before asking for her autograph. Kaoru had a case made for her to carry. It was just the right size to hold a mix of pictures from the ads and still fit in her purse. Security carries extra if she runs out.

"Sure." She signed enough pictures for all of them. Then they took selfies with her.

"Thank you."

"Thank you very much."

When they were gone, she sighed and said, "They're my age or younger. Why do they care? It's a fashion line for businesswomen."

"It's because you're their age and in their social sphere. The target age doesn't matter."

We passed a bookstore with a newsstand out front. I saw Eiji tense as Haruhi-chan ran over. I was relieved when all she did was grab a tabloid.

"It's Kyoya-senpai and his nephew," she said under her breath, but I heard.

Her hands were shaking the paper so hard, I had trouble reading the headline.

"Ootori Head and His Heir Caught Playing in the Sand."

With his high profile, she'll never be rid of him. I gently pulled the paper from her hands and put it back. "Put him out of your mind, Haruhi-chan. He's not in your life anymore."

I put my arm through hers. "Let's have lunch." Hopefully, food will take her mind off him.

.

xXx

.

Breakfast, Hawaii:

"I thought you weren't working on this trip." Fuyumi sat down next to me and poured herself a glass of juice.

"The world stops for no one, not even me." That earned a snort. "It will only be a few hours."

"I guess I'll let it slide."

She picked a tabloid off the stack of newspapers I had delivered. All my regular prominent international papers and anything else with Ootori news.

"How did someone get this?" Her tone was bordering on shrill, and I winced. It was a picture of Sota and me building a sandcastle on the beach yesterday.

"It's clearly taken with a telephoto lens. From the angle, looks like they were down the beach on the next property."

"This is my son, Kyoya." She slammed the paper on the table. "They have no right."

Just then Umeji walked in. "Fuyumi, what's wrong? Are you OK?"

"Look what's been published! Just look!" She shoved the paper into his hands with a huff.

"Decent picture." He looked at her face and winced. "What's the problem?"

"This is our son on the cover of a tabloid. The press has no right."

He led her over to a chair and had her sit. "No, they don't. This is a private beach, and Sota is a minor."

"Exactly."

"But the Ootori's and the Shido's, though not as much, are well known, public families. You know that. There are pictures of you, me, and us in those magazines."

"But Sota…"

"I agree. However, the picture is harmless. So what if he's building a sandcastle with his uncle. He's five. That's what five-year old's do. There's nothing revealing or creepy about this picture. If anything, it's good publicity. It shows our child having a normal day at the beach."

I looked up and smirked. "He's right. The only person who might have a problem with it is me." Their eyebrows shot up. "It could be interpreted that I have a heart and might be softening. I pity any competitor who believes that."

That broke the tension. Finally. You'd think they'd be used to it by now, but I've seen firsthand how protective Fuyumi can be of Sota.

"Fine," she huffed, "but I'm going to call this paper and tell the editor that 5-year-old kids are off limits without my permission."

Just then, the subject of our discussion ran into the room. "Uncle Kyoya!" He ran right into me and tried to crawl onto my lap. "Up!"

When he calmed down, he saw the paper. "Is that me? I'm in the newspaper! And with Uncle Kyoya. That's so cool." He jumped down and climbed up on his mother's lap. "Mom, I want that on my wall at home. Can you frame it…pleeeeeese? Pleeeeese?"

Fuyumi gave in to those eyes. How could she not?

.

Security had been alerted and were actively hunting for photographers. This time Akito and Yuki-chan were playing with Sota in the ocean, mainly in the surf hunting shells.

Umeji was taking pictures.

"I'm so excited. We have to tell them. Can't we do it tonight?"

I sighed. Sota got those begging eyes from his father. "No. Not yet. I was thinking about our last night here."

"I don't want to compete with a proposal."

"We won't be. I'm not expecting that for at least a couple months. Yuki-chan is taking her time and making sure. It's her first big decision on her own."

"I don't want to wait." Now he's pouting.

"And I don't want it to overshadow the vacation."

Knowing I'd won, he stretched out on the blanket. "Fine. I'm going to take a nap."

"Sleep well." You crazy man. Good thing I love you so much.

.

xXx

.

Lunch, Commoner's Shopping Mall:

The noodles were good, but nothing compared to Ritsu's restaurant. Still, I only picked at them.

Kyoya-senpai was playing in the sand with Sota.

I'd met Sota and his parents when Kyoya-senpai and I were dating. We'd gone to dinner several times. He was always so nice to him. It gave me hope about him being a father to our children.

And then he gave me that contract.

"We need to get you some cute workout clothes for that 5K next week."

Staring at Umeko-san, it took me several seconds to realize what she was talking about. Right. We're in a shopping center and spending money like crazy.

"I have plenty of workout clothes."

"Yes, but you'll need something fresh and cute to be photographed in. I'm sure there will be people there who recognize you and will want selfies."

Great. Deal with it, Haruhi. It's your new life, and it's for Kaoru.

"Alright. I need some new workout socks too."

I swirled my noodles around for another few minutes, then brought up a subject that I'd been avoiding. Like the plague.

"Umeko-san, I have a question, but I don't know how to ask."

She reached over and took my hand. "You can ask me anything. I'll do my best to answer."

Her eyes sparkled and there was such a look of comfort on her face. I can picture Mom with that look.

"Tamaki-senpai and Renge are engaged. It looks like Honey-senpai and Cho-senpai are on that path. No one knows for sure because they are so different, but Ritsu and Shinobu seem to be as well. And now Yuki and Akito-san."

Her face hasn't changed. Still encouraging. I took a deep breath and pushed on. "I don't know much about the elite and their marriage contracts, but I wanted to know if you and Akira-san were going to arrange one for me."

The guys had assured me that Kyoya-senpai's contract was not normal, but I don't want to go through that again, even with a reasonable contract.

"Oh, Sweetheart. Akira and I would never do that for you without your absolute agreement. We want you to be happy, not stuck in some horrible marriage for no reason whatsoever."

My lungs pushed out a huge breath I'd been holding, and I slumped in my chair. "Thank you."

"We want what's best for you and believe you know that better than anyone. When it comes time for marriage, we'll help, but you'll make the decisions."

"Thank you."

Now I can enjoy my noodles.

.

Evening, Hawaii:

"What's wrong, Sota?"

He was sitting on the steps leading down to the beach, his elbows on his knees and his chin in his hand. "They said I couldn't come with them."

"Who said?"

"Uncle Akito and Yuki-chan. They went on a walk, but said I had to stay here."

I looked down the beach and saw those two walking towards the sunset. Good.

"Tell you what, let's go on a walk, just the two of us."

"Really?" He jumped up and threw his arms around my legs. "Can we, Uncle Kyoya?"

"Sure. Let me tell your parents."

.

Yuki-chan had asked about our life if we got married.

"For the first four years, I'll be going through my residency, so my hours might not be regular, and you'll be in college. Aside from some of Kyoya's fundraisers and other family obligations, I see those years as being quiet. We'll still be getting to know each other. Fuyumi tells me it can take a couple years to get used to being married and living with someone."

Her small hand was engulfed in mine, and we were walking through the very edge of the surf. The sunset is amazing, and the smell of the ocean was clearing out all my stress over finals.

"And you're sure you are fine with me majoring in Japanese and creative writing."

I stopped and faced her. "Definitely. I'll support your career decisions. I want you to be happy and satisfied with your life."

Her face tilted up to mine and she smiled. "Thank you."

I couldn't help myself. I leaned over and brushed my lips over hers. It was a chaste kiss. Barely there. But we both blushed.

.

xXx

.

Morinozuka Gym:

"How long have you been running, Satoshi?"

"Almost four hours so far. I'm a few miles from the end." He's not breathing that hard. All that training is working. "I wanted to run a full marathon at least once before trying the real thing."

"Good for you. I know I'll never be able to do that. Walking the 5K is enough for me."

My physical therapist had come in, so I joined her for my session.

…

When I was done, I joined all the guys on the treadmills.

"Are you excited about the dog show this weekend, Haru-chan?"

"Definitely. And the time alone next week."

Honey-senpai stopped his treadmill and stared at me. "What are you talking about?"

That's right. I'd only told Mori…Takashi-senpai.

"Since the show is in Karuizawa, I'm going to stay for a few days after. Mitsuzu and I will have time together, I'll be able to relax after this crazy year, and also hang out with Arai."

I looked up and all three of them, Satoshi, Chika, and Honey-senpai, were staring at me.

"Don't look so worried. Eiji's team has already done the security check and he's fine with it."

.

"Takashi, did you know?" With the noise of the treadmills, if I was quiet, Haru-chan couldn't hear me.

"Hn."

"Aren't you worried?"

"I'm going to the dog show, and Eiji will be with her after. She'll be fine."

"Haru-chan? When will you be done with your physical therapy?"

"The last one is right before school starts again. Why?"

"We need to start your self-defense training again."

She looked at me for a minute. Is she trying to figure a way out of this? She needs to be able to protect herself in case someone gets past security.

"How about we replace physical therapy with defense training on Tuesdays and Thursdays?"

"Kay! The four of us will work up a plan."

That smile is a little strained, but she did say yes. Yea!

.

xXx

.

Wednesday, April 13:

Morning, Morinozuka Library:

"She did WHAT!?"

"Keep your voice down, you crazy alien. Do you want the whole house in here?"

"Why didn't you and Satoshi tell us that Haru-chan was being terrorized?"

"We told you she'd become scared of all loud noises. No one was surprised by that after what she went through with the shooting and the accident." I ran my fingers through my hair to push it back. "I was the only one who figured it was an organized attack."

I'd finished telling my brother all about Ayanokoji Seika-senpai and her terror campaign against Haruhi-senpai.

"Now what?" he asked, Black Honey still going strong.

"Now, you get to buy a chain of bakeries."

I couldn't help it. I laughed at the startled look on his face.

"What?"

"You have to know that bakery chain called 'Shugā', right?"

"Chika-chan, what does that have to do with anything?"

I gave him a cupcake. "Hang on. I'm getting there." He ate it in one bite. "You do know the chain, right?"

"Yes," he grabbed another cupcake, "I took Cho-chan once."

"It's her mother's. I staged a hostile takeover and bought them. I'm selling them to you for cost and expenses."

"What?"

"Ananokoji Seika-senpai's mother used to own the Shugā chain of bakeries. I bought them and am selling them to you."

He ate two more cupcakes and stared at the far wall trying to process what I'd told him. It's not that hard, but I did switch directions on him quickly.

"You took the bakeries as retaliation?"

"Yes." Come on, Alien. You can do it.

"How is that retaliation?"

I smirked, hoping it didn't come out looking too much like Ootori. "That's the best part. She'd run them into the ground. After buying up the debt, she sold it to me to hide it from her husband, but there's no nondisclosure in the contract. We can make the takeover public and bloody."

He's really going to have to get new clothes. How can anyone take him seriously in a baby blue t-shirt covered in ice cream cones and green socks covered in happy faces. His jeans are the only thing slightly normal.

A vicious grin covered his face. He finally caught up with me.

"How much and where do I transfer it?"

.

A bakery chain of my very own! This is perfect. Eventually, I can put one in every one of my amusement parks.

Chika-chan told me the amount and I transferred it right then using my phone. I also signed the papers he gave me.

"Now that you own it, you need new management. It's in the red and needs to be turned around quickly."

"OK."

He handed me a folder. "Here's what my lawyer put together for you. There's a list of potential CEO's along with other names for marketing, product development, etc. He sent this to your lawyer and told him to expect your call."

His face lit up, and he smiled from ear to ear. "Wow, Chika-chan. Thanks."

"No problem. I knew you'd want to hit the ground running."

"I'll go call him right now."

The alien grabbed the plate of cupcakes and skipped out of the room.

On to that horrible girl's father.

.

xXx

.

Ootori Plane between Hawaii and California:

After our walk on the beach last night, Akito-kun walked me to my bedroom door, gave me a tourist book for San Francisco, and told me to be awake at 5:00.

Now I'm on the Ootori plane, putting my makeup on in the bathroom, and being flown across the Pacific. I keep having to change my blusher because my mind can't stop wandering to the memory of that kiss. He kissed me. Akito-kun kissed me.

It wasn't heavy. It wasn't passionate. But it meant something. A wish to keep moving forward.

I tossed my brush into my makeup bag with a huff. I'll just carry some powder and blush in my purse.

.

I watched Akito watching Yuki-chan coming out of the bathroom. They both blushed when their eyes met. Did something happen last night on the beach? Wouldn't have been much. My brother wants to take it slow with her.

Tachibana cleared his throat and started the security briefing. "Security will be split between your two groups. Kyoya-sama will be going to the Stanford campus for a tour and to meet with various administration representatives."

He smiled slightly at Akito. "Have you and Yuki-sama decided what you will be doing?"

"Random sightseeing." He put his hand on Yuki-chan's. "I want you to decide and have the best day possible."

"Oh." Her gaze went down to her hand. "I didn't realize…"

"That's the best part of a surprise." She looked up and smiled.

"Tachibana, the three of us will meet up at the end of the day for dinner before we board the plane to come back."

"Yes, Sir."

Yuki-chan stood. "I'll go get the book."

Akito, Yuki-chan, and their security team discussed different landmarks and activities for the rest of the flight.

.

xXx

.

Petto Chinmi:

"There. That's better."

My whiteboard was finally updated. I'd taken down the research for the 5-year plan and put up the final timeline. My assistant, Imai-san, explained how the company's project tracking software works, and I printed what I needed from there.

"Anything more I can help you with, Fujioka-sama?"

I grabbed one of my blue notebooks and smiled. "Not right now, Imai-san. I've got a few people I need to talk to. Be back soon."

"Fujioka-sama, I could call them to your office."

I was already out the door by this time. "No, thanks. With some of the questions I have, they'll probably need to be at their workstations."

I walked down to IT with Goto-san following me. I've tried to tell him I don't need a security escort in my own company building, but Morinozuka policy requires he knows where I am and is in earshot at all times when I'm in the building. He usually stays out in the hall and works on his tablet.

One more thing.

"Kato-san?"

"Fujioka-sama. Come in. Did you need something?"

"Yes. I'd like to discuss the IT security upgrades and have a question about my personal calendar."

An hour later, I had the update I needed, and my personal and professional calendars tied together on my phone. Now everyone in my life can see the items they need to and security, my assistant Honami-san, and I can see everything. I also now know how to give anyone else access to just what I want them to see.

Chika's always telling me more things I can do on this phone.

Now off to marketing to discuss the booth for this weekend.

.

xXx

.

Stanford Campus:

"A combined BA and MBA while also heading Ootori Enterprises?"

"Are you doubting my ability to manage both?"

I may be the president of Stanford University, but that tone made me feel like a student. "Of course not, Mr. Ootori, but it is quite a bit to handle."

He leaned back in his chair and crossed his legs. "I expect I'll test out of a few introductory classes, other's I'll take online, and the advanced classes I'll take in person. Over the summer, an Ootori Enterprises satellite office will be established. I should need to go back to Japan only once every month or so."

"I don't think that will be a problem."

"As you know, Ootori Enterprises owns and runs more than half of the hospitals in Japan, along with surgical centers, testing equipment, and various other medical needs. We've also recently acquired Ito Pharmaceuticals and have merged it under our brand."

"Yes. Quite impressive." As is this eighteen-year-old across from me. He mentioned an endowment when he set up this meeting…

"One of the reasons I'm considering Stanford is your medical school." Medical school? Surely, he doesn't want to become a doctor too. "I'm aware you are currently fundraising for a new teaching hospital. I'd like to discuss that with you."

"Of course, Mr. Ootori. Would you like a tour of our current facilities and see our plans for the new one?"

"Yes. That will do nicely."

.

xXx

.

Cable Car, San Francisco:

I watched Yuki-chan's long hair being blown by the wind as she hung out the side of the cable car. I also heard the security team grumble about the risk. We're completely unknown here, and I'm not the Ootori heir. The worst we have to worry about is being mugged. Sota's detail has much more to worry about.

"This is wonderful," she called to me in Japanese. Yuki-chan can read English quite well, but her spoken has a heavy accent and limited vocabulary. I'm acting as the translator today.

I squeezed her hand, indicating I'd heard her, and she turned and smiled at me. I reminded myself on the plane this morning that she is ten years younger than me, so her interests and enjoyments will be different than mine. My goal today is to give her the best experience I can. A vacation just for her without her father ruining it.

.

Akito-kun is so sweet. While I didn't expect him to actually grumble, I wouldn't have been surprised by a strange, disappointed look when I suggested the cable cars. The book said they were a 'must see'. He didn't bat an eye, just smiled and told security to make it happen.

I took a picture of him and texted it to Fuyumi-san and Naoko.

We weren't expecting it to be so cold here compared to Hawaii, so we stopped in what Akito-kun called a 'tourist trap' and bought sweatshirts with the famous bridge on them. We look completely ridiculous.

.

xXx

.

Stanford Campus, San Francisco:

The president's office is situated close to the medical campus, so it wasn't a problem for them to walk over as the rest of the security team and I followed.

"As you can see, our medical campus is state-of-the-art, and we are building a new teaching hospital to meet the growing needs. This hospital will be a partnership among our medical school and several nursing and technician campuses around town. Our goal is for a fully integrated teaching hospital that has the best instructors and provides top certification programs."

"Impressive."

Kyoya-sama already knows all this and more. He would never consider even talking with this man if he wasn't completely informed and sure of his next move.

Over the next few hours, Kyoya-sama received an extensive tour of the medical campus and the hospital, was given a presentation for the new one, and was taken to what I assume was supposed to be an impressive lunch.

Once back in the president's office, he got down to business.

.

xXx

.

Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco:

"These crabs are amazing. So different from Japanese spices."

We were on Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, eating at the Crab House. Just a stand with tables out front. The idea of free soda refills in these huge cups is so American. In Japan, we pay for each small drink.

"What's your favorite thing so far?" I asked her.

I chuckled as she held up her hand while she finished her bite. She's stuffing her face like I remember Fujioka-chan doing the few times I met her.

"The carousel was fun. I can't believe I actually got on with all those kids. They were having the time of their lives and watching their faces was better than sitting on the whale." I watched her take a drink from her straw and struggled not to blush. My hormones should not be acting up like this.

"I loved the sea lions. So cute." Her mouth drooped as she said, "It's something we'll never get to see in Japan. I can't believe people are so short-sighted."

"I agree". The Japanese sea lion was hunted to extinction and died out in the 1970s. Truly a tragedy.

She took her last bite and wiped the butter off her chin. "We should get you something to remember the trip. There are souvenirs all over the place."

"That's a great idea. Something for Sota-kun, Naoko, Haruhi, Hikaru…"

I followed her into a huge souvenir shop. It's a good thing the car is nearby.

.

xXx

.

Stanford President's Office, San Francisco:

"Are there any more questions I can answer for you, Mr. Ootori?"

I know he thinks of me as just a kid, but here's where I change his mind.

"How much?"

"How much for what?"

"To be a full partner in the teaching hospital and naming rights."

This man would never make it in a Japanese board room. His mouth is actually hanging open. Did he think I was just going to write him a check for $100,000?

"I'll have to bring that up to the board. They have final say in such matters."

I opened my briefcase, pulled out a bound folder, and handed it to him. "My lawyers, in conjunction with a firm here that I've contracted with, have developed this contract. It details what Ootori Enterprises, specifically their educational branch, would take charge of along with the amount of the endowment we're prepared to pay for naming rights."

Again, his mouth is open. Maybe I should suggest a game of poker.

He flipped through as I made a few clicks on my phone. His email chime went off. "I've also emailed it to you and your assistant."

"This is very thorough, Mr. Ootori." He caught my eyes and continued, "I'll have it sent to our board members."

"Do that." I stood and held out my hand. "I'm considering several other universities to attend, not all in this country. I'd appreciate a quick answer."

"I'll have it sent today."

.

xXx

.

Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Ouran High School Host Club. I do, however, own any original characters and the plot of this story. I also do not own, nor am I making any money from, the following: Olympics, Lego, Duplo, any real restaurant, business, food product, or really anything else that exists.

Author's Note:

Congratulations to Tamaki and Renge. They truly are so sweet they give me cavities. But what about Honey and Cho? I think her father brings up valid points. How about you? BTW: Honey still calls Cho by her last name because he thinks it's cuter.

And who found Haruhi in the tabloid? Don't worry, you aren't supposed to know yet.

I had so much fun writing Hawaii. Kyoya may seem a little OOC, but he is working on being less of a dick.

Writing the scene where Chika tells Honey about the bakery was fun. Comedy is hard. If one of the corners of your mouth quirked, I'm happy.

Looks like Stanford is going to happen for Kyoya. What will his BOD think?

Before you go crazy on me for Haruhi being upset about Kyoya, remember this… She's 17, she dated him for a year and was beginning to feel serious about it, then he crushed her heart with that contract and was starting to get back into her life with the phone calls, and then came the kidnapping. He's had her on a rollercoaster for over a year and she's still feeling the whiplash and can't talk to her dad about it. The biggest thing to remember is she's 17! I was a mess in high school. Kyoya challenged her judgement so many times, it's no wonder she's not as confident as she used to be, at least in her personal life. She's kicking ass at Petto Chinmi.

Drop me a review. Let me know what you think. I have the major plot for this story, but an idea for something will be considered, as I only have an outline and it doesn't contain specific scenes.

.

Next Chapter:

More Hawaii. Honey and his parents get some bad news. And Kasanoda starts a business.

.