"You want to do what?"

Shinobu didn't care for Izzy's tone but she ignored it. "Please, Izabera, you're not hard of hearing. You heard me just fine the first time."

Izzy pinched the bridge of her nose. "Oba-san, while I appreciate the gesture, a birthday party is unnecessary," she tried to be as polite as possible, smiling so sweetly that it hurt her mouth. She couldn't see why Shinobu would go through the trouble, it's not like they really even got along. She was positive that her grandmother didn't even like her enough to even remember her birthday. Chi probably told her what the date was.

"Nonsense, you only turn eighteen once. Besides, we're nearly done with planning it so it's too late now," Shinobu waved the notion off with a sure smile. Izzy felt like her smile was going to crack her face in half. She eyed her grandmother, trying to figure out what the older woman was up to. A big celebration was jus too good for her to believe that Shinbou had good intentions. She just didn't believe Shinobu to be this kind for no given reason….

"Ah...Morimoto is releasing a new luxury line later this month."

"That...is correct," Shinobu admitted after a long pause. Izzy hummed in bemused agreement. It all made sense now. It wasn't about her birthday and that they cared enough to throw a party for her. It was all about what they could gain out of it. The rich and wealthy were exhausting to deal with. Shinobu wasn't even sorry, still smiling quite smugly.

"Be grateful," Takuma scowled harshly at his niece, standing at the doorway to the large living room. He'd been by, meeting with Hiroki and was just on his way out when he overheard the conversation between his mother and niece. "That mother would even go through the trouble." His scowl was harsh and demeaning but she hardly paid it any mind, having grown quite used to his obvious dislike for her. There was no need to fret over it, she didn't like the man to even pretend.

Izzy only took a deep breath, beating back a sarcastic retort. "Of course, thank you for the consideration, Oba-san. It's what I've always wanted."

Shinobu rolled her eyes. "Sarcastic just like Masami. Joy. That's all I wanted to discuss with you, you may go home." Which each meeting she had with her granddaughter, she saw more and more of her daughter in her. It was always said that Izabera was just like her father, someone Shinobu had never met but she thought she was just like her mother. Sarcastically polite behind a frigid smile. Izzy got up immediately, offering a shallow bow to Shinobu before turning away to leave. She didn't get very far out of the living room when Takuma caught her by the arm, halting any escape. Izzy despaired, staring at the front door.

Freedom..so close and yet….

The brunette smiled tightly and peered up at her uncle. "Something I can assist you with, Takuma?" There was that frigid smile of hers again. Fake and carefully painted into place. She was positive that her polite smile was getting under Takuma's skin. She wouldn't give him the reaction that he wanted, knowing he fed off of it. She refused to give him what he wanted.

He scowled down at her. "It would do you well to mind your manners, Izabera. My mother doesn't have to throw you a party. Be more gracious."

It's not like she even wanted the damn party, she felt like snapping at him. But, of course, she remembered that she wasn't going to play into Takuma's foolishness. She continued to smile, even when his grip grew stronger. "Try not to leave a bruise, Takuma, it'll be hard to explain to party guests why the birthday girl is covered in bruises."

He let go immediately, much to her satisfaction. Appearances were important, after all. It wouldn't do them any good if she showed up in a dress that showcased any nasty bruise. Feeling victorious, Izzy quickly made her escape before she could be stopped again. God knows she was grateful for her freedom. She didn't go straight home, opting to drop by Haruhi's apartment instead. The younger brunette wasn't surprised to see her, ushering her in with a wave of her hand. Izzy smiled, holding up yet another parcel.

"You don't have to keep bringing cheesecake every time you drop by, Senpai," Haruhi chuckled and returned to her homework. Though it was needed, it was kind that she always thought to bring something over in exchange for intrusion. Haruhi pointed out time and time again that she didn't have to spend any money on her but Izzy always waved the notion off. She constantly used the excuse that it was just her good manners.

"I know, that's why I brought bento instead. I brought one for Ranka-san too," Izzy followed after her, settling down at the table as well. She eyed Haruhi's homework casually, placing the parcel away from all of her work. Izzy finally met Ranka and she was..surprised to say the least. Haruhi prepared herself for the older brunette's disapproval, knowing how religious Italy was and that her father's lifestyle was frowned upon.

Though she was caught off-guard by the entity known as Ranka, she didn't seem to think too much of it. 'That explains your penchant for being okay with dressing up as a boy,' was all she said with a shrug. She then revealed that she had an Aunt Luisa who used to be Louis. Ranka liked Izzy but that may have something to do with all the luxury desserts she tended to bring whenever she showed up, unannounced. Izzy didn't bother to question it, just fine with taking it.

"Dad's at work but I'll tell him you brought him food. What brings you here today?"

"I can't just drop by?"

Haruhi snorted, pushing her homework to the side. She needed a break anyway and besides, whatever was in the bento boxes smelled good. She peered into the box, frowning in thought. "Senpai, this looks like a really expensive bento." It was far more fancier than any bento she could buy at the supermarket or even make.

Izzy was perusing her own bento box before she leaned towards Haruhi to look into hers. "Hm? Well, I suppose it might be," she answered with raised eyebrows, not quite seeing the problem. She didn't see the big deal about it.

Haruhi only stared back at the older brunette. "Rich bastard.." she muttered. Sometimes she forgot that Izzy was, despite her laid-back ways, a rich person. "Anyway, we just saw each other at school a couple hours ago." Haruhi continued to eye the older brunette. She really didn't mind that she dropped by, she was far more easier to deal with than their usual company but it wasn't often that Izzy came around on days after school.

Izzy only shrugged, feigning innocence. "I just thought I'd drop by."

Haruhi eyed her. "Weren't you supposed to be going to your grandparents' house after school? What happened?"

Izzy's charade dropped. "Well…no panic attacks this time.." she trailed off darkly. "That wasn't funny, I'm sorry. Anyway, ah, I suppose it's really not something to complain about but…" she sighed. "My grandmother wants to throw me a birthday party."

Haruhi only stared at her, unimpressed. "You're upset about a...birthday party?" the younger of the two repeated. Izzy grimaced. "You really are a rich bastard."

Izzy snorted. "I just...it's not genuine. I'd much rather something like your birthday instead," she sighed heavily. Haruhi wasn't the least bit surprised to come home with her dad to find the Host Club waiting for her. They even baked a cake. Or, Izzy had done the baking and the Host Club proceeded to get on her nerves the entire day. Mori and Kyoya were the most helpful, usually herding the others away when they got in her way. They'd even decorated the apartment with balloons and streamers. Mori and Izzy had done most of the decorating but it was the thought that counts, Tamaki insisted.

But it was genuine and that's what she wanted for her own birthday. She didn't want some big birthday bash with guests who really didn't care for her. They just cared about the luxury cars or the gossip surrounding her family. And besides, a big birthday bash meant that she would have to slap her Hosting persona on. She had to play her part and make everyone believe that everything was just fine in the Morimoto family. Even if Masami was still nowhere to be found.

Haruhi hummed in thought. "I guess that's reasonable."

"Yeah, I just know it's not about me. My family is releasing a new line of luxury cars later this month. They're using my birthday as a means to get clientele." She sighed and shook her head. "And of course, I can't tell them no. They're already done with the planning, they didn't even ask me. I just...I get up to show up."

"Makes sense since you don't even get along with your family. But, Senpai, it's only one night. I'm sure you can handle it," Haruhi reached over and patted her on the shoulder. "You've handled much worse."

Izzy ran her fingers through her hair, just thinking. "I suppose so," she muttered quietly. "My cousin'll probably be there so I'll have to worry about fighting him off. Hopefully he won't throw me over a railing or something…."

"That's not funny, Senpai," Haruhi shook her head. Izzy laughed softly but it sounded bitter to her. "Maybe you could invite the others. If your cousin is there, he might be less likely to approach you with them around."

The older brunette laughed again but this time it sounded more genuine. "You mean if I'm around Mori."

Haruhi smiled at her and nodded. "Pretty much but we both know he'll keep an eye on you if you ask him to."

Izzy idly tapped her chopsticks into her bento, looking thoughtfully. "Maybe…" she trailed off. "Ah, it's probably best if you don't come. Some of our classmates will probably be there," she frowned. Haruhi wasn't that bothered by it but she could tell that it bothered Izzy. Haruhi could tell that it was just weighing over her, dragging her down by the shoulders.

She shrugged, because it really didn't bother her. "You can come over next Sunday and we can celebrate, if you want."

Izzy perked up. "Really?"

"I'm not baking you a cake but I can buy one from the market."

The older brunette snorted. "That would be unnecessary but I think I like the sound of that."

Haruhi could only figure that Izzy could truly be herself when she was around just them. There were no repercussions for her real personality. And that's just how she liked it.

"What's it like being the older woman, Senpai?"

Izzy didn't pause in her task of cleaning the twins' table up. She carefully loaded the chinaware on the tray and lifted the tray to the serving cart. She finally granted them a glance, eyebrows raised. "The older woman?" she repeated in a bland tone, tucking a thick lock of hair behind her ear. Club hadn't been rather calm that day, leaving her in a calm mood.

Hikaru grinned impishly. "Mm, you're the oldest. You'll be eighteen first."

"That makes you the older woman," Kaoru's smile was identical but she could tell the difference just fine. She still hadn't told them she could tell the difference and they hadn't told her that they figured as much. It was a strange game between the three of them, neither side willing to give in first and admit to the truth.

"You know, I wonder about you two," Izzy said without really acknowledging their words. "I'm barely any older than Honey-chan and Mori."

"You're three months older than Mori-senpai! That's a lot!"

Izzy pursed her lips. Mori was already gone, having left for kendo club. She was somewhat relieved, feeling some way now that they were pointing out that she was older. She schooled her features, knowing they'd feed off of her reactions. Tamaki suddenly slapped the twins on the back of their heads, startling Izzy. "You don't make fun of a girl about her age!" the blond nearly screeched. Izzy laughed as it instantly started a fight between them. Free of their attention, she returned to cleaning up. She wasn't at all pleased with the birthday plans but her friends seemed excited about it. They figured she would try to brush her birthday off completely.

It was a great relief to her, knowing that they would be there. It made it a little easier to accept the ridiculous notion of this birthday party.

"Your cousin will be in attendance, won't he?" Kyoya asked when she emerged from the back. She was dressed out of her hosting uniform, back into her regular uniform. She patted at her hair, combing any flyaways back into perfection.

She made a face at the mention of her cousin. "Unfortunately, since he's family and everything," she rolled her eyes.

"Very unfortunate," Kyoya agreed. He shared most of his classes with Katsu but he never thought much of him. He was quiet, polite and kept to himself. But every time he interacted with Bera, it was never pleasant. He didn't like Katsu one bit but he couldn't flat out tell Bera that, couldn't let her believe he actually cared. He'd never hear the end of it from that smug brunette. "I'm sure Mori-senpai would also agree that it's unfortunate."

He watched from the corner of his eye as she drastically paled. Izzy smiled tightly. "I think everyone would agree." She tried to feign obliviousness but it was pointless. Kyoya was keen on everything. Everything. Izzy left, striding to where the kendo club met. She carried both her school bag and Mori's bag. It wasn't like him to forget his own bag and though Honey was perfectly capable of taking it, somehow she'd been roped into the task.

"Satan.." she muttered. Kyoya was definitely aware of her not so platonic affections for Mori. She wasn't sure what to do with that knowledge. Izzy ducked into the hall, smiling and waving at the closest club members. They returned her gesture, waving and blushing back at her. Mori noticed her immediately but she only waved at him before settling off to the side, out of the way. She didn't mind waiting, as it gave her time to think. She thought about the conversation she had with Masami, rolling her mother's advice around in her head. Maybe she did overthink too much. Maybe she did play it safe too often. A part of her just couldn't help it, there was still a part of her unwilling to risk the friendship between her and Mori.

She watched Mori with careful eyes. She wondered what just one kiss would feel like. The thought caused warmth to bloom from the center of her chest. She'd only been kissed twice before in her life and both times were unwanted. But...well...she wanted to kiss Mori. It was no longer just thoughts of what ifs. She embraced the fact that yes, she had romantic feelings for her friend and yes, she wanted to kiss him. It was alarming but she embraced it all the same.

She was nearly eighteen and never experienced having a crush, never dated—never been willingly kissed before. Before, living in Italy, she'd never really been concerned with that sort of thing. But now, here in Japan, it's all she ever thought about when it came to Mori.

Did that make her shallow?

Maybe.

And anyway, how could she fool herself into thinking Mori felt platonically about her? None of his actions lately hinted at platonic feelings. He even said he didn't see her as the sister figure she was to everyone else. Now what the hell else could he mean if he didn't mean that in a romantic sense? If he didn't see her as the sister everyone else saw her as, what else was there?

Izzy pursed her lips, those romantic comedies Fumiko was so fond of made this look a lot easier than she thought. Maybe it was more so her fault. She was an overthinker, it was just her nature. She wondered if Mori raked his brain like she raked hers.

The brunette snorted, she doubted it.

"Senpai?"

Izzy was startled out of her thoughts, glancing up at Chiba and Izuru. They were looking at her in concern, she must've been thinking too hard and hadn't noticed them approaching. She slapped a smile on, watching as they relaxed. "Hi there," she greeted, her sisterly persona slipping within place. "Good practice today?"

Chiba made a face. "Mori-senpai whacked me upside the head a lot this practice."

Izzy blinked, "that doesn't sound fun."

Izuru folded his arms. "He deserved it."

She laughed. "I just came by because Mori forgot his school bag," she patted the bag on her lap. "I thought the club might be over but I didn't mind waiting."

Chiba smiled at her, lovesick. Izzy ignored the look completely, not even bothering to acknowledge it. "That's very kind of you, Senpai."

Izzy only shrugged. "You think so? Someone had to bring it to him. He'd do it for me."

"You look like you were thinking hard just a second ago, everything okay?" Izuru prompted, steering the conversation away from Mori. She blinked, caught off guard by the question. Whatever she was thinking about had all of her attention and it was written all over her face. That was unlike her and of course, a quick cause of concern to those around her.

"Fine, things are just fine," she waved the notion off, hoping they wouldn't pick at it. Chiba asked about her relationship with Mori enough as it is, she didn't need to add fuel to the fire. "Don't mind me, I tend to space out a lot." She could tell neither of them were convinced but she was saved when a tall shadow fell over them. She was the only one to maintain her smile as Mori eyed the three of them, having seen him coming. "Mori, you're going to get sick of seeing me."

Mori raised his eyebrow. "Not true."

She could just feel her face getting hot. She cleared her throat, remembering that Chiba and Izuru were still there. "Chiba says you whacked him upside the head a lot."

The second year blushed when Mori threw him a dry look. "Again, Senpai, he deserved it," Izuru decided to come to his classmate's rescue. It wasn't like she was trying to embarrass him or anything, she seemed a little concerned, if anything. That just pulled at Chiba's heart.

Izzy puckered her lips in thought before nodding. Izuru decided it was time to make an exit, grabbing Chiba by the shoulder to pull him away before Mori could smack him upside the head for fawning over the brunette. Izzy smiled weakly and held up her hand, waving as Chiba made a spectacle of himself. "So excitable." She was left with Mori and when he finally turned to look back down at her, she remembered why she was there in the first place. "Oh," she hopped to her feet, holding his bag. "You left without your bag so I brought it." The brunette held up the bag, smiling as she did so.

Mori's head twitched to the side before glancing down at his empty hand. "You...you didn't even realize?" Izzy asked. Mori didn't say anything, causing her to snort childishly. "Spacey," she teased with a chuckle. He huffed at her but didn't deny the accusation. "Something on your mind lately? It's not like you," she was still holding his bag. "A lot on your mind?"

Mori finally took his bag from her, tucking it under his arm. He gave her a strange look. "Something like that." He didn't elaborate and she decided to leave it at that. "Thanks."

Izzy only smiled back at him, following when he nodded his head towards the exit. It occurred to her that Kyoya probably purposely sent her so that she could mention her cousin's attendance. She wasn't sure if he was trying to be helpful or if he was really just sadistic and wanted her to squirm. "Ara…" she tried to figure out how to mention it but was coming up empty. "About that party…"

"Your birthday party?"

She made a face, grimacing. "Yeah, that. I, uh….my family will obviously be in attendance," she began to explain, feeling silly. "So, um, Katsu will be there."

Mori glanced down at her. "I'm just saying because I know you aren't too fond of him," she said quickly, not that she could blame him. Katsu kind of...well, he sucked, putting it plainly. "Besides...these—" she paused to reach for his hand. He let her, watching as she used both of her hands to cup his much larger hand. "—these can be considered as weapons, you know."

She hardly realized that they stopped and were standing in the middle of the hallway. She was busy grinning at her own stupid joke, unaware that Mori was blatantly staring at her. Unlike Mori, Izzy wasn't all that great at hiding her thoughts and feelings. It was easy to tell when she was happy or irritated or anxious. It was easy to see when she was overthinking or when she was lying. She tried to hide her emotions but she wasn't as nearly good as she thought she was. He could tell right away that her cousin attending her party was bothering her.

Mori flipped his hand around so that they were holding hands. He squeezed her hand one good time, offering silent support. Her silly grin dropped though she wasn't unhappy. She'd been staring at their hands but she looked up at him, revealing a genuine smile. He pulled their hands closer to his chest, leaving her no choice but to step closer. Their hands curled into his chest, her knuckles pressed against his chest. Her smile was gone but her eyes were bright. The air around them felt warped, distorted.

Hot. So very hot.

Izzy faltered and nearly backed away but Mori caught her by the hip and dragged her back. The only thing separating them was their hands, still laced together and pressed against Mori's chest. A shadow fell over her eyes, caused by her bangs but she reached forward with her empty hand, clutching at his jacket for leverage.

Izzy leaned forward, heart thundering in her chest. She paused, waiting for him to push her away. For anything. But she felt the slight squeeze at her hip, encouraging her. He uncurled his other hand from hers, dropping it down to settle on her hips. She could feel his soft breath, fanning across her lips. Patiently. Mori waited patiently for Izzy to make the next move, leaving the ball in her court. Her fingers twisted, wrinkling both his jacket and shirt.

Izzy moved closer, pink mouth hovering only centimeters from his when—

"Oi, Mori!"

Both Izzy and Mori came crashing down. Like a needle to a bubble, the hot air around them fizzled out. They were both equally shocked as they pulled away from another. Mori turned first and Izzy carefully peered around him, seeing another student approaching them. He was armed with a basket full of vegetables. Izzy blinked, confused by the sight only to freeze.

That student looked terrifying.

She grimaced and reached for Mori, clutching at his arm. He glanced down at her. "It's just Kasanoda."

She blinked at him, still very confused. She didn't know that particular student and she wasn't even sure if he was an actual student to begin with. "You're friends?" she asked with raised eyebrows. Mori grunted and Izzy relaxed. He was still intimidating as hell but if Mori trusted him, he couldn't be that bad. She smiled politely as this Kasanoda stopped in front of Mori. He noticed Izzy immediately.

"Who're you?"

It wasn't often Mori was found interacting with a girl besides Haruhi and occasionally Renge. Kasanoda eyed the girl, noting that she was quite pretty. Mori shoved his hands in his pockets, somehow completely calm. "Bera-chan," he introduced simply, like that was supposed to explain everything. She glanced at him, a little amused with the short introduction.

Izzy cleared her throat and let go of Mori's arm, offering a polite smile before skirting around Mori. Kasanoda made for an intimidating person with his harsh expression and red hair. But if Mori said he was a friend, she had to trust him. "I'm Giovanni Izabera but everyone calls me Bera."

"Except for Mitsukuni."

"Ah, right, Honey-chan calls me Berry but if you call me that, I'll be forced to hurt you. So, Bera is just fine."

Kasanoda eyed her, doubtful that she could really even hurt him. But, he glanced above her head at Mori and something in the gleam of his eye told him to just listen to the brunette. "Bera," he nodded, testing the nickname. Nicknames were good, nicknames meant friendships. "I'm Kasanoda Ritsu...and…"

"Everyone calls him Casanova or bossanova." Mori pointed out, watching in amusement as Kasanoda flushed terribly.

"Casanova?" Izzy asked with raised eyebrows. She tried to mask her laughter, holding her hand to her mouth. "Isn't that interesting."

"It's not," Kasanoda grumbled. "Please don't call me that." He got enough grief from the Host Club, he didn't need this girl adding to the chaos. Izzy continued to chortle behind her hand but promised nothing, giving him the feeling that she'd probably join in on the ridiculous nicknames. "Anyway, I wanted to give these vegetables but sh—" Kasanoda paused, eyeing Izzy warily. "Uh…."

Izzy tilted her head to the side. "Ara...oh! I'm also in the Host Club," she pointed up to Mori. "I...uh...I work closely with Haruhi, we're actually a package."

He continued to eye her suspiciously. Behind her, Mori lifted his hand and settled it on the crown of Izzy's head. "She knows."

That was shocking to know, it's not like they just let anybody figure out Haruhi's secret. What's more is that this girl was actually a member of the Host Club. "Wait, you're that...the Big Sister?" He'd heard bits and pieces about her, mostly the other girls in the Gardening Club mentioning her. Something about a pretty brunette who had this big sisterly persona about her. He hadn't given it much thought but now it made sense.

"That's me," Izzy waved at him. "I help Haruhi out mostly."

Kasanoda nodded slowly, still a bit unsure. "Well...I wanted to give her this but I missed her…" he held the basket of vegetables up, causing Izzy to lean closer, peering at the offering. "I, uh...I'm in the gardening club."

"Oh! Oh wow, you grew this? That's impressive," Izzy stepped closer. "I didn't even know we had a gardening club."

Kasanoda quirked an eyebrow. "You like gardening?" he glanced at her hands, noting they were perfectly manicured. She didn't seem like the type to go digging around in the dirt.

"My Nonna has a garden. She always says hand grown vegetables taste better than store-bought," she explained distractedly. "Oh, you wanted to hand these off to Haruhi? I could drop them off for you," she offered politely. She never needed much an excuse to drop by Haruhi's place, though this time she wouldn't have to spend any money. Haruhi couldn't complain this time around.

The redhead blinked. "You sure?"

"Of course. I don't mind." Izzy held out her hand, taking the offered basket. "I'll give the basket back tomorrow."

"Uh, thanks. Appreciate that," Kasanoda blushed, still not all that used to pretty women not being uncomfortable around him. She continued to smile, holding up the basket with big eyes.

"Could I stop by the gardening club soon? I'd love to see what else you all grow."

"Sure."

Her face brightened as Kasanoda was almost positive she would start bouncing in place. Mori's hand was still resting on top of her head, not that she seemed bothered by it. That made it seem like it was a normal occurrence between them. "No problem! Thanks for letting me come by, let me know when it's a good time for you," Izzy offered. "I'll be sure to get this to Haruhi, I should get going." Izzy took her leave first, waving to them both as she vanished down the stairs and out the front door. Kasanoda and Mori watched until she was completely gone.

Kasanoda eyed Mori for a moment, wondering why Izzy and Mori were still at school if their hosting hour was up for some time. He remembered Mori had kendo club but Izzy didn't seem like she had any clubs. So what were they doing alone and together?

"Well, don't you just look beautiful?"

Chihiro smiled as she stepped into Izzy's bedroom. She was wearing an elegant pale blue dress, it was slim fitting, long-sleeved and shoulderless. Izzy was still sitting at her vanity, dressed in a long blood red dress. It was backless with a high split and a plunging neckline. Her hair was tousled elegantly, curls falling over her face. She turned around at the sound of her aunt's voice, whistling teasingly at the sight Chi presented. "Thanks, Aunt Chi, you look beautiful too. It's hard to believe you have a teenaged daughter. Is Fumi ready?" She stood up, smiling.

"I am!" Fumiko appeared in a flourish, dressed in a pink and white halterneck dress. She wasn't wearing her headband this time, letting her bangs fall wistfully around her face. She smiled brightly. "I'm ready, oh, Iz! You look beautiful."

"You too," Izzy stood up, the dress falling against her legs. "This dress is really elegant, makes you look mature."

Fumiko's eyes were bright at the compliment as Chi herded them out. Izzy and Fumiko chatted excitably as Chi busied with Shinobu on the phone, reassuring her mother that they would be arriving shortly. She was glad that Izzy hadn't put up much of a fight when it came to this party. She knew it was the last thing she wanted for her birthday but she went along with it anyway. She was sure that her friends being invited had something to do with her being agreeable.

Izzy was, of course, the center of attention when they finally got around to the party. She took it in stride, slapping a polite smile on her face. She wasn't allowed to see her friends just yet, having to make her rounds with Shinobu, Chi and Takuma. She somehow managed to keep her sour feelings and thought buried away, even though it was the last thing she wanted to do.

"Don't you think that dress is inappropriate, mother?" Takuma asked, eyeing the brunette. She, in turn, raised her eyebrows at him and frowned. She'd been waiting for Takuma to make some snide remark about her from the moment she stepped foot into the party. She wasn't all that surprised that he decided to attack her appearence.

Shinobu wasn't all that concerned, glancing at Izzy with a fleeting glance. Chi rolled her eyes. "She looks fine, Takuma," she waved it off. Izzy was eighteen and there was nothing wrong with her dress.

"It's not like there was a dress code, Takuma. Maybe you should have gone shopping with me if you had such a concern about my appearance," she shrugged her slim shoulders and looked around at the party. To her amusement, her friends were gathered at the candy table, mostly due to Honey's influence. The candy table was a last minute addition, one that Izzy demanded they have for Honey's sake.

She had yet to make her way towards them, still busy with hosting along with her family. She was glad for the skills that she developed from even being in the host club, sliding her persona in place like it was nothing. She was also glad that none of these people could see the cracks of her facade quite like her friends could.

Kioka and Katsu approached them at that moment, cutting Takuma off from any snark reply he was trying to come up with. "Happy birthday, Bera-chan," Kioka smiled sweetly, reaching for her hands. She squeezed them affectionately. "You look beautiful tonight. So much like a woman, I'm sure Masami and Alphonse are proud of you." She was pretty sure the mention of her parents left a nasty taste in Takuma's mouth but there were far too many eyes on them. Izzy tried not to be smug about him, her ruby-red mouth threatening to break out into a grin.

"Don't you have something to say to your cousin, Katsu?" Shinobu prompted, raising her eyebrows expectedly at him. Izzy wished that she could be off with Fumiko or anyone at that movement. Katsu looked like he was in physical pain as he finally turned his attention to her. Clearly he wanted to be anywhere but here at the moment. She didn't blame him, the feeling was mutual.

"Right," he mumbled dejectedly. "Happy birthday, Izabera. I hope it's a good one."

"Spectacular," Izzy chuckled dryly. "Thank you, Katsu. I hope you enjoy the party. Did you happen to invite any of your friends?" She really didn't care either way but it was better to just save face. Many of their schoolmates were in attendance and she was sure that some of his friends were mingled in.

"I wouldn't call them friends…." Katsu grumbled.

Takuma snorted and muttered something about him unable to make any friends in the first place. The women around him ignored them, though Shinobu did eye him, unimpressed. "Oh, I'm sure your friends were glad to attend, Katsu," Chi said in an attempt to talk her nephew up. The last thing any of them needed was Takuma berating Katsu in front of a room full of people.

Izzy glanced around, eyes landing on Fumiko. She was standing with Yuna, Ayame and Hisa. And Yuuya. She nearly huffed at the sight of Hisa's….whatever he was. She wasn't sure what to call Yuuya but she didn't like him too much. She certainly didn't like him enough to be at her birthday party but she wouldn't tell Hisa that. Maybe she didn't like him but she'd rather be dealing with Yuuya instead of her family right about now. But she was sure that she'd be released soon. Maybe. If God smiled upon her for once.

"Well," Shinobu said. "There are plenty of lovely young ladies in attendance tonight, Katsu. Perhaps you might find interest in one? You, Fumiko and Izabera are getting older so perhaps it's time you think of a suitable match."

Both Izzy and Katsu stared at their grandmother, uttered speechless. "Uh…" they both stuttered together. Chi glanced between the two, nearly biting her nail nervously. She hadn't said as much but Shinobu had been asking about Izzy's dating life. Though she gossiped with Masami about Izzy's relationship with Mori, she hadn't mentioned it at all to Shinobu.

"Mother," Chi said quickly. "Perhaps that could be a conversation for another time?" she tried, smiling nervously. "Now is a time to celebrate, isn't it? I'm sure Izabera is ready to spend time with her friends."

The older woman hummed lightly. "I suppose so. A conversation for another day," she nodded along to Chi's suggestion. "Go on. And Katsu, stop looking so glum, hm?"

She didn't have to be told twice, elegantly rushing off towards her friends. Tamaki noticed her coming first and opened his arms to her. She was moving too quickly and had no choice but to allow him to wrap her up in his arms. She snorted and wrapped her arms around his torso, pressing her chin to his shoulder to avoid smudging her makeup. "Happy birthday!"

Kaoru, Hikaru and Honey joined in on the hug, causing her to disappear under their limbs. Izzy continued to laugh, which was totally different from the mood she had just seconds ago when she was with her family. "Thank you very much and thank you for coming, I'm not sure how I would survive."

"That conversation seemed a little tense, Senpai," Kyoya said once they released her.

"Every conversation I have with Shinobu, Takuma and Katsu tends to be tense," Izzy shrugged, feeling so much better now that she'd been released from her family's dysfunctional clutches for the time being. "Same old, same old." They didn't like her, she didn't like them. Really, it was getting old but the Morimotos were a bunch of grudge-holders. Just ask Morimoto Masami.

Honey turned back to the candy table, his eyes bright and clearly done with the conversation. Mori eyed Izzy and pointed to the table. "Your idea, Bera-chan?"

Izzy swayed innocently, hands behind her back as she smiled brightly. "I had no choice. Did you see that ridiculous birthday cake they got me? He would've devoured it in seconds," she laughed. "It's huge for no reason." She continued to laugh. "Anyway, please, enjoy the party as much as you can. I know my family can be...odd but...please."

She was glad to say that they did enjoy the party as much as possible. Her family left them alone for the most part with Izzy having to play hostess every so often in between. She enjoyed herself, surrounded by the Host Club and the rest of her friends. Even if Katsu was always at the edge of her view. She was even having a good time herself, she had to admit.

"Ah, Izabera, would you like a dance?" Yuuya offered, holding his hand out to the brunette. Izzy paused mid-sentence and looked at him, smiling somewhat in confusion. She looked at Hisa, who looked just as confused.

"Ara….sure…." Izzy chuckled, reaching for his hand. "I'd be glad to dance with you," she let him pull her towards the dancefloor. She could see Ayame, Yuna and Fumiko dancing together, smiling and giggling girlishly. "I'm a little surprised that you'd want to dance, Yuuya." She said as they began to sway.

"Don't be ridiculous, Izabera. You're the birthday girl, I have to get a dance with you." Yuuya's smile was far too phony for her but Izzy didn't bother to call him out on it. She supposed it was a kind gesture that he would dance with her but she felt a little uncomfortable knowing he was Hisa's date.

"You know, Izabera, we never got to finish our conversation from before. Usually, I would let it go but I really want the two of us to get along…"

"Is that so?"

"Mm. I couldn't understand why you'd be so upset since you should know that arrangements in our circles are normal…."

"Uh-huh…"

"So I did some research on you and it all makes sense now that I know the controversy surrounding your parents."

Izzy felt her smile tighten. "Pardon?"

"Your parents fell in love, though there were some hardships, but I imagine you were raised with a different mindset. You probably have it in that cute little head of yours that Hisa should fall in love."

"Cute little head."

"Now, if I'm being honest, Hisa is far from what I would look for in a wife but I have an obligation to my family to do right. If that means marrying her, I will. I'm sure I can grow to like her."

She wanted to hit this guy in the face.

"There's nothing particularly special about Hisa so a match like this would really do well for her and get her parents off her back. Now, the problem here is you."

Oh, she was definitely going to hit this guy. How the hell was he going to insult Hisa to her face? She could feel her patience waning with him. She played with the idea of at least stepping on his foot. Maybe she could even get away with grinding her heel into his foot for good measure too. She wasn't one to resort to violence so quickly but she could make an exception. She was no saint, after all. Besides, he insulted both her and Hisa.

"I'm the problem?"

"Yes, you see, Hisa adores you, which I suppose isn't a bad thing. She goes on about how you're so smart and determined and pretty, which I must agree with."

Izzy's eye twitched, his compliments were enough to make her shudder. Though, to be quite honest, she had no idea Hisa thought so highly of her. Sure, they got along well these days and maybe Hisa would consider her as one of her close friends but...to think all that of her? That she was pretty and smart? That was news to her.

"But, Izabera, you're putting these strange ideas into her head—that she should date and fall in love and all that nonsense. That's not how things work, Izabera. The arrangement is already agreed upon and we can't have her backing out."

Izzy took a deep breath.

She felt his fingers against her bare back, rubbing at her lower-back in what she was supposed to think was soothing. It was placating, like she were some dumb child who didn't quite understand the world around her. She knew she didn't like this guy for a reason. He was an egotistical idiot who probably felt better about himself when he treated women like idiots. This couldn't happen. She didn't care what Hisa said or what her family said. Her friend would be downright miserable if she went through this with Yuuya.

"Hisa can do whatever she wants. It's not up for you to decide, she's not a child." There now, that was polite but straight to the point. Izzy flexed her fingers against his shoulder, trying her best to keep her temper in check. She could not, under any circumstances, attack him right now. Not while all these people were around but boy was she debating it.

"See, Izabera, that's what I'm talking about. You can't put a silly idea like that into her head."

"I can do whatever the hell I want." Politeness be damned. What was with everyone around her trying to tell her what she could and could not do? What gave any of them the right to dictate what she did with her life?

Yuuya's face morphed into something completely evil for a split second but he wiped it away with a smile. His grip on her hand and back tightened and he pressed her to him, curving over her. She hated that when she backed men into corners, they immediately used the fact that they were bigger and stronger than her to intimidate her. She stared up at him, reading the clear warning in his eyes. To back off or she would get hurt. She felt her temper spike dangerously. She couldn't make a scene and Yuuya knew that. She really wanted to rear back and punch him in the face. "Yuuya," she sighed as if she couldn't be bothered. "I think, for your sake, that we should end this dance. My friends are a little on the protective side and it's difficult to break up a fight in heels."

"Are you threatening me?"

"Weren't you threatening me?"

They were at a standstill. Yuuya smiled down at her after a minute. "I was right," he decided after a pause. "You are going to be a problem." He took a step back from her. "Thank you for the dance and happy birthday." She watched him go, not bothering to thank him for the birthday wish. Her mouth trembled, ready to form into a violent scowl.

Hikaru and Kaoru were at her side immediately, looking less than impressed. "Wasn't that Hisa-senpai's date from the other day?" Kaoru asked, hand on his hip, eyes glued to Yuuya's back. He was returning to Hisa, who understandably looked miffed.

Izzy grunted, frowning. Hikaru eyed her, taking note that her hands were balled into fists. "Did he threaten you again, Senpai?"

He watched as she debated on telling them the truth or not. The answer was obvious though. "Not out right but…." she trailed off before shaking her head. It wasn't enough that she had to deal with Katsu and his odd bursts of anger. Now she was on Yuuya's hit list. Joy.

"Wanna dance?" Hikaru elbowed her.

Dancing with the twins was always a challenge but she found herself to be grateful for it. She had to focus in order not to trip up and it took her mind off of Yuuya. It probably looked ridiculous to the older guests, seeing Izzy fly back and forth between them twirling and twisting her hips, but the school kids were accustomed to it. That got most of them dancing. Izzy was eventually separated from the twins, opting to dance with whoever was in reach. She accepted anyone's inviting hand, dancing with them until she inevitably switched partners.

Which is how she ended up spinning right into Katsu. She crashed into his chest with a small grunt. He seemed just as surprised as she was, staring down at her. "Well," she huffed while reaching for his hand and shoulder. "This is unfortunate."

Having to touch Katsu made her skin crawl from head to toe. Since her panic attack, she made sure that she was never alone with Katsu. She wasn't quite sure what to really ever expect when she was dealing with him. Sometimes it was like he was completely harmless, docile and spineless. And then other times, he was like a weird version of his father. Angry and temperamental and just cruel.

The two cousins swayed and Izzy felt wholly uncomfortable. She tried to keep her cool, hoping the dance would end quickly enough. "Do I make you uncomfortable, Izabera?" Katsu asked after a bout of awkward swaying. To everyone around them, all was well. They were just two cousins dancing and enjoying the party.

Izzy's eyes flickered upwards, her face blank. "You irritate me."

Katsu smiled down at her but his grip on her was shaky. Something was making him nervous. It was like they both were waiting for the other to make a move. "I'm surprised that you didn't go back to Italy for your birthday," Katsu said after a pause. She refused to give him eye contact, looking just over his shoulder.

"It's just a birthday."

Katsu continued to smile down at her and twirled her away from him. She thought this was an opportunity to escape but he wouldn't let go of her hand. She had no choice but to twirl her way back to him, trying hard to mask her look of discomfort. "I would think a girl turning eighteen would be a big thing for you Italians."

Izzy shrugged, feigning disinterest. This had to be the longest song she'd ever heard. Every time she thought it would end, it just kept going. Katsu didn't seem to mind all that much, drumming his fingers against her back almost in a playful manner. She was positive that Katsu had a split personality disorder. One minute he was spineless, the next he was conniving. It was enough to give her whiplash.

Finally—mercifully—the song ended and the two came to a pause. Izzy took a careful step back but Katsu's hand remained pressed to her back. She forced herself to smile despite wanting to rip his hand from her back. Like Yuuya before him, he ran his fingers up and down her back. Izzy didn't react to his baiting, keeping her smile in place. "I'll give you one more chance to return to Italy, Izabera. Just one more chance…"

"Here we go…" Izzy sighed.

He reached up with his other hand, brushing his thumb under her eye. "I would hate for any more scars to mess up that pretty face of yours, cousin of mine." She still didn't react to his goading but his fingers felt cold against her face and her back. She repressed the urge to visibly shiver, opting to keep a cool disposition until he was done toying with her.

Before she could say much, a hand snatched at Katsu's hand, wrenching it away from her face. She blinked, rendered surprised by the sudden interference. Mori stood over the cousins, holding Katsu's hand like he was a fussy child. His eyes were narrowed, reminding Izzy of a storm. "Stop that."

"Mori!" She was surprised but was instantly on the move, stepping completely away from Katsu towards Mori. She reached for his hand, grabbing at his wrist and pressed her other hand to his chest. "Wait, it's fine," she said quickly, hoping to diffuse the situation before it got worse. Katsu watched in interest but grimaced when Mori gave one threatening squeeze. Izzy glanced at Katsu, frowning softly before turning back to Mori. She smiled genuinely up at him and tapped her fingers against his chest. "How about a dance, Mori? Please?"

Mori glanced over her head at Katsu with a wicked look in his eyes. Katsu read the threat quite clearly and tried to take a step back. Mori loosened his grip, letting Katsu snatch his hand back. Izzy moved quickly, pulling Mori away before Katsu could say something stupid and make things worse. Izzy was much more visibly comfortable with Mori, her smile genuine and charming. It was like his mere presence was enough to make things better. She'd gone from being stressed and irritated from Yuuya and Katsu to cheerful and pleasant in just seconds.

There was no way she could deny her feelings for him, she thought in amusement.

"Sorry, ah, about that. You'd think he'd behave at least now since we're at a party," she grumbled, drumming her fingers against Mori's shoulder.

Mori wasn't sure why she felt the need to apologize. "He threatened you again?"

She pursed her lips but nodded her head. "It's fine, though, really. It's nothing serious. He's just...you know...Katsu. He's just Katsu."

"Katsu keeps threatening you," Mori pointed out, not at all pleased that Izzy continued to let her cousin get away with murder. He wasn't sure how long she would explain away Katsu's behavior before she popped up with another scar or another set of bruises.

"It's not a big deal."

"It is a big deal."

"Mori—"

"Izabera."

The two pause, staring stubbornly at one another. Izzy broke their staring contest first, eyes glancing around her. There were some party-goers that were eyeing them, wondering what was going on with the birthday girl. She smiled sheepishly. "Um. Excuse us." She pulled back from Mori, only to catch him by the hand. She was sure that if he didn't want to follow her, he could easily stop her. But still, Mori let her drag him right out of the party, stepping into a quieter, empty hallway. "Mori," she hissed. "Listen, you don't have to worry so much, okay? I've got everything under control!"

He tilted his face down towards her, eyebrows high on his forehead. "Under control?" he repeated, she could tell by the tone of his voice that he didn't believe her for one second. She wasn't all that shocked. She didn't even believe herself.

"Yes."

"You're lying."

"I'm not."

Mori reached forward, threading his fingers through her hair to brush the curly locks from her face. She was rendered speechless by his very forward actions, going very still. There was a little voice in her head, shouting out 'actions speak louder than words, actions speak louder than words!'.

"Under control." Mori repeated it again. He was looking right at her scar, hidden under her makeup.

There was a shuffle from the direction of the party, distracting both of them. Izzy could hear whispered giggling coming towards them. Before she could think of it, she pressed her hands against Mori's chest and pushed him backwards into the alcove, quickly following after him. She fell against him but paid it no mind as two party-goers snuck by them. Hidden by the shadows, Izzy eyed the two guests with raised eyebrows. "That's not his wife…" she muttered in interest, watching them vanish off into the darkness.

Remembering that she'd been in the middle of bickering with Mori and that she was leaning all of her body weight against him, she whipped back around to face him. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have…" There was no breathing room to speak of between them. They stood in the alcove, squished unabashedly against one another. It was quiet and everything was still around them. Neither spoke, neither moved.

"...Mori…?"

"Mm?"

"About what you said...at New Years…" she tried her best to keep the tremor out of her voice. "About not seeing me as a sister? Like everyone else does?" she kept her voice to a whisper, like she was afraid that the party-goers would somehow overhear her. "What...exactly did you mean by that?" She faltered. What if it didn't mean anything? What if their strange relationship was wholly platonic and she was making something out of nothing? Now that would be just embarrassing and awkward. But she had to be sure. She'd been wondering for an entire month now.

His hand was a reassuring warmth at her back, reassuring her. There was something there, dammit. There was no way she could mistake it for being something platonic. If she was mistaking it, she was delusional as hell. Mori opened his mouth to answer, seemingly comfortable and fully intent on answering her question, when someone cleared their throat. Izzy visibly cringed, eyes going wide.

Kioka stood behind them though she was looking upwards, as if she didn't want to look at them. "I don't mean to intrude…." she trailed off. "Shinobu might have mentioned cutting the cake soon. We can't do that with the birthday girl missing…."

Izzy let out a small groan but made the first move, taking a careful step away from Mori. His hand remained pressed to her back, slid slowly to her waist before dropping away completely. She ran an impatient hand through her hair, ruffling the curls before letting them fall back into place over her face. "Interrupted again," she grumbled almost petulantly. "We'll have to finish this conversation later," she commented, looking down at her feet. "You head back first, yes?"

Mori's expression was intense, too intense, when she looked back up. But he only nodded, skirting around her to return to the party. Izzy watched him go, arms folded defensively across her chest. She waited until he ducked back into the party before turning to Kioka. The older woman was still looking up, though she was smiling. "Aunt Ki…" she trailed off, watching as Kioka fought to control her grin. "About that…"

Kioka finally looked at Izzy, smiling. "He's handsome, isn't he?"

Izzy paused and exhaled softly before returning the smile. "He is. Very handsome."

"I'm sorry if I ruined the moment. I saw you both leave and when Shinobu mentioned looking for you...well...I don't think she'd find this so amusing," Kioka explained, her smile faltering. "Is he...your boyfriend?"

Izzy approached her aunt, looping her arm through hers. She began to guide Kioka back to the party. "No, not my boyfriend. We're good friends."

Kioka chuckled softly. "Very good friends."

Izzy was almost surprised by her aunt's teasing. Though, to be fair, Takuma wasn't around to verbally bully her into being quiet. She felt bad for the older woman and promised herself that she would try harder to better their relationship. She had a lot on her plate, she realized as Kioka continued to tease her. A lot of feelings to sort through, to figure out but she was a Giovanni. And a Morimoto.

She could handle it.

She could handle anything.

...Right.

TeeBeMe: She can handle nothing. Izzy is just one stubborn girl, I don't even think she can help it at this point. She and Mori have the worst timing, don't they? Every time they come close, there's always someone just getting the way and Izzy is still so oblivious. I'm here for Mozzy but I lowkey still ship Hizzy.