Kiss
Chapter 3: Growing Comfort
The next time that Kyoya challenges Haruhi is later that year, at the beginning of fall semester. One week into law school for her, her father begs her to come visit him so he can hear how she's doing, and since Kyoya is his favorite Host, Kyoya drives her over with her homework for a weekend trip.
It's while they are headed back to campus that Hotta receives an urgent call before turning on the screens in the back seat.
"Master, there's something the two of you need to see."
As soon as the screen on the back of the seat comes to life, both gasp as they witness Haruhi's apartment building crumble before their eyes, right before a loud boom and flames burst out of a window. As she freezes in horror at the bright flash of light and loud sound like thunder, he goes to her side, hugging her against him to remind her that she is safe. For a short time, she doesn't move or say anything, too shocked to do so.
"My apartment," she finally mouths in disbelief.
"I know I always said it was in bad shape, but I didn't want to be right," he responds, cringing as more levels disappear, including Haruhi's. "This is a grave situation. Your stuff–"
"Not important," she interrupts, pulling away to face him as her usual level-headed tendencies return, albeit more forced and robotic than usual. "Dad will send all of my clothes he has over to me if I ask, which is enough for now. All of my most important things are with me right now. I don't like the idea of buying certain textbooks again, but I can afford it this time." Her mouth twists downward. "For now. I may not, depending on where I have to move. I'm far more worried about finding somewhere to live, especially one in my price range."
His mission is clear as he turns to the front seat. "Hotta, identify all the apartments within a thirty minute walking distance to campus and find out which ones have openings, as well as their cost by tomorrow morning."
Any further away is too far in his mind, far from him and offering more opportunities to put Haruhi in unsafe situations. Once Hotta accepts his task, Kyoya orders him, "Take us to my apartment," and he turns to focus on Haruhi once more, all the wheels turning.
Frowning, she asks, "What are you doing?"
"Making sure you have a place to stay for the night. I won't let my close friend suffer when I can help," he says, his tone not brooking opposition. "You need rest to be ready for classes tomorrow. You'll stay in my guest bedroom tonight."
She opens her mouth to protest, but she closes it just as quickly, seeing the wisdom and knowing he is right. She is far too practical and exhausted from spending time with her father to fight him, and he knows it.
"I think you're right this time. Thank you for acting so quickly to help," she whispers, staring down at her clasped hands. "This is unexpected. I hate imposing, but I have no choice."
"You're not imposing," he insists, resting a hand on top of hers. "It will be a unique experience having you under my roof for one night." She doesn't look convinced, and he adds, "Besides, it's only temporary.
Once we have information and can secure your new apartment, you'll be gone by tomorrow night."
He means every word, as he intends to use his considerable influence to ensure that she enters whatever apartment she chooses. His traitorous heart, though, wants to listen to his brain that is already ten steps ahead.
What if Haruhi can't find an apartment?
Naturally, she will stay with him.
He thinks naturally, but would she in reality? That he doesn't know, but he hopes to convince her.
He selfishly wants her to stay with him. He had never seriously entertained the thought of her and him living under the same roof before now. Sure, he knew in theory that one day they would marry and share a home then, but he hadn't allowed himself to imagine that reality for very long, as it would only torture him. The image of them sharing a life and home had always been enough motivation for him, but now, an opportunity has come along that he can't ignore. He must prepare for the possibility of her staying long term with him, and he sends instructions to prepare the guest bedroom for her.
"That's true," she agrees, now more convinced. She even looks happy? She's smiling, at least until another thought interrupts her felicity, making her grimace. "Dinner."
Grinning, he waves away that concern with Host-like ease, his constant planning and desire to impress her ready to shine. "It is always a shame to waste good food, but it is not that much. Since you've visited my home before, you know how little I shop. I was going to order dinner; what are you feeling tonight?"
What ensues is a long, heated debate about what to order once they decide on a place. She doesn't want much, but he ends up winning and ordering a feast because she deserves some comfort food after such a terrible day.
Once food is ordered, they call Ranka, who doesn't take it well.
"My baby is homeless?" wails Ranka loudly.
"She was for exactly two minutes, and now she is staying with me until she can find another apartment," replies Kyoya calmly, putting a hand on Haruhi's arm as she closes her eyes. "She will be in good hands with me. I will ensure she is safe, fed, and finds a much better place to live going forward."
"Oh! That is a great idea! You have such a nice apartment, too! Haruhi, don't fight your friend on this, please? For your daddy's sake?" pleads Ranka, sounding more relieved.
"I'm not. I already agreed to stay with him," says Haruhi, opening her eyes and giving Kyoya a grateful look.
"Excellent! And if you are delayed in going into a new apartment, I hope you stay with him the whole time! I trust him most with my big law school girl," states Ranka, making Kyoya preen.
"I know, Dad. We'll see what happens," says Haruhi, looking eager to be done with her father fussing as she shows Kyoya how tired she is by being vague and gripping his knee.
"Thank you. You honor me by saying that. Please know that she is welcome to stay with me as long as she chooses," says Kyoya, as much for Ranka's sake as Haruhi's as her eyes widen comically.
Such a statement has the intended effect on Ranka; he sounds overjoyed. "That is such a relief to hear! Now I can sleep tonight knowing my baby girl is safe and protected no matter what. Thank you for all your help…"
It takes a little longer for Ranka to end the call, but eventually he does. Haruhi looks like she aged during that call as she heaves a loud breath and leans back on her chair. The car is cold inside, though, so as soon as she moves her arm toward him, Kyoya shamelessly loops an arm around her shoulder and brings her up against him. When she is nestled against him, whatever tension she had now melts away, and he smiles softly as he watches her close her eyes and rest.
Even the unflappable Haruhi can be shaken up sometimes, and she is stressed about her future living situation. Adding in her father's concern only makes it worse. Kyoya understands how much she loves her father, and while she can normally handle him and shake him off, even he can be too much, just like Tamaki can be. Combined with a life-changing event, she looks weak and pale.
They don't speak for the rest of the ride because he knows she needs the space. It's enough knowing that she takes strength from him as she leans against him and is willing to depend on him. Once arriving at his place, he holds her hand the whole walk up and cherishes every moment she clings to him once the door closes shut.
At this point, she lets all her exhaustion and fear show, and as she shakes, he embraces her tightly, lightly murmuring comforting words to her until she's ready to move.
"I could have died in there if Dad hadn't wanted to see me," she states with sobering clarity.
"You could have, but you did not. You're safe," he reminds her, pushing hair out of her face. "Besides, had you been there, my people and I would have found a way to get you out quickly. I'll never let anything happen to you."
She grins weakly. "I believe that. The Shadow King protects his friends."
The attempt at humor is enough to get her moving, and dinner arrives soon after. As they're eating, both of their phones go off. Hunny calls Kyoya right after Tamaki contacts Haruhi.
"Haruhi is not injured and in good hands," assures Kyoya as he hears Tamaki shouting even from across the table. "She wasn't home when the building accident occurred; she was in my vehicle. All of the most important things she needs she has, other than textbooks. She's staying with me for the night, until she can find a new apartment."
"Takashi has his old books; he'll send them to your apartment later tonight," declares Hunny, ever ready to help. "He also says most of the apartments are full. What if she can't find one?"
"Then I will convince her to stay here," says Kyoya, leading to a long pause on the other end.
"Good. You'll take good care of her. Should she take tomorrow off to go apartment hunting?" asks Hunny eventually.
"I doubt she'll be willing, but I'll try. I have someone already hunting, so we'll know soon," answers Kyoya, which satisfies Hunny, Reiko, and Mori.
Hanging up soon after that, Kyoya is unsurprised to find out Tamaki is still worriedly screaming, and Haruhi looks like she is done with him, eyes and mouth scrunched and hands shaking.
The solution is simple: Kyoya puts out his hand to take her phone, and she relinquishes it willingly. As soon as Tamaki stops to breathe, Kyoya interrupts, "Tamaki, you idiot, Haruhi has had a very long, taxing day, and you're making it worse by going on like this. I'm hanging up shortly. She's staying with me until she finds another apartment. Call back when you're ready to let her speak."
Tamaki barely stumbles out an apology before he is cut off, and Haruhi sighs in relief. "Thank you, Kyoya. It has been a long day. I think I'm done for the evening."
"Let me show you your bed," he says, standing. "Rest is the best thing you can do right now. Let me know if you need anything."
Thankfully, his staff had enough time to make the room extra comfortable with more blankets and pillows than usual, and the spartan accommodations otherwise match with Haruhi's preferences. As soon as she sees the room, she smiles wanly, and he hugs her.
"Thank you, Kyoya."
That's all she says, but that is all he really needs. The way she embraces him tightly, as though she sees lightning, tells him that she is grateful, and they stand together for a long time. Over time, her grip loosens, and her breathing evens out. When he hears her soft snores, he gazes upon her, not having had this particular pleasure before.
He has seen her get sleepy, but she always knew her limits and went home when she got too tired. This is different; she's tired and trusts him enough to fall asleep against him. It's an honor he treasures, and he presses his lips to the top of her head, feeling her long strands against his lips.
Now more than ever, when she is vulnerable and trusting, he feels a deep desire to protect her and do whatever he can to help her. He would do just about anything for her.
If she asks him now while sleepy and wrapped around him, he would be willing to reconsider his choice of job, and that terrifies him. That's the moment he knows that he loves her, unequivocally and without a doubt in his mind. That knowledge shakes him to his core, and he needs to be alone to come to terms with it. He gently nudges her awake, and her eyelids flutter prettily before she gazes into his eyes, confused and barely awake.
He's not sure if she's ready to acknowledge that she fell asleep in his arms, so he speaks accordingly. "Haruhi, you looked like you were starting to nod off. Do you need anything else before I let you sleep?" he asks, gesturing toward the bed.
With a small shake of her head, she looks around, noticing that he still hasn't let go of her. "No. This was exactly what I needed," she says, smiling. "Some sense of normalcy amid the change and chaos." She stares deeply into his eyes. "You're still here."
At some level, she wants him. He is her rock in this moment, and he memorizes this feeling and special scene, even as he feels a need to escape, to understand these feelings.
"I'm always here for you," he declares ardently, pressing his thumb to her cheek. "Remember that. Sleep well."
She grins and leans into his touch before heading into her room, and he secretly hopes that she will stay longer than one night with him. Tonight feels different and special, and everything feels right having her in his home.
Once she is ensconced in her room, he licks himself in his, alternating between sitting and pacing to come to grips with the fact that he loves her. Not only loves her, but puts her far above his family and loyalty to the zaibatsu. It's no wonder, though, since she is the only one who truly cares about him outside Fuyumi, and the company never listens to him. When had she snuck in and taken over his heart?
By the time he finally goes to bed, he's still nervous about the fact that he feels out of control, having put much of his happiness in Haruhi. Worse, she gives no indication of developing feelings for him. On the other hand, because it is her, he feels like there is no one better suited. He has no idea what to do with these feelings, or if he even should, and he is torn about his next steps. There's only one thing that is certain: she possesses his heart completely.
He sleeps poorly that night, unlike Haruhi. Even with going to bed a few hours earlier than normal, she sleeps until her alarm goes off, and he's glad that she looks better rested when she appears in the kitchen the next morning. She is still quiet, and he doesn't press her, only shows her where she can find food so she can make lunch.
Did he rush the food here overnight just for her? Yes. Does she need to know that? No. All he knows is that she likes to make her own lunch each day, and he won't take that little taste of normalcy from her.
"I have compiled the list of apartments," comments Hotta as Haruhi finishes packing up her lunch. He hands a copy of the spreadsheet with hyperlinks to both of them, looking pleased when both thank him.
He is barely gone before both dive into the list. At first, Kyoya is worried since there are basically no apartments with availability, especially when he sees Haruhi pale, but the selfish part of him is delighted.
"I can't afford any of the ones that are available," bemoans Haruhi before sitting down, looking defeated.
"What is your price range?" he asks, determined to double check this list and look through his contacts. "I'll check again while you're in class today."
He'll do it for her. After much soul-searching and thinking the night before, he knows he is too far gone to stop or reverse these feelings. He's scared because he knows he loves her, and the depth of his feelings is something he's never seen before. Honestly, he didn't believe he could love like this after coming from such a family, but he would do just about anything…for her.
Her mouth drops open. "But your work–"
"I can work from home and multi-task," he insists. "Your situation is more pressing; you need a new apartment."
She looks like she wants to fight, but her practical side wins over her need to do everything on her own.
"You're lucky you're right and I have a full day of classes," she mutters, writing down some numbers on a piece of paper. "Here's what I'd be willing to pay for rent. I'll be back as soon as classes are done to discuss."
"By the time you're back, I will have a solution for you," he promises, and she gives him a small smile before rushing out the door for class.
He barely works that day as he searches, but he can't find anything remotely close to her range. By lunchtime, he can see the writing on the wall, so he continues researching, but he also draws up a contract with reasonable terms that he thinks Haruhi would be willing to consider so as to convince her to live with him.
She would only be paying about a fourth of the cost of rent, but considering how small her room is compared to the rest of the apartment, he thinks that justifies the cost. The cost is her upper limit, and he hopes that won't scare her off.
When she returns to his apartment, there's a hardened look on her face, the one she always wears when she's tackling a particularly tough problem.
At first she just stands in the doorway, seemingly afraid for a moment to say anything, and then her normal aplomb returns as she heads toward him. "I talked to classmates in all of my classes, and none of them had any apartment that could solve my problem. What did you find?" she asks, setting down her backpack.
He gestures at his kitchen table, where her favorite food is already set out, along with the contract. "Come and sit. As promised, I have a solution," he states evenly.
"I'm not going to like this; you already have food out. You always set some out when you insist on me taking a break from studying for a day," she observes, making him curse internally.
Apparently, she noticed his normal plan. Face unchanging, he sits down. "But I do have a solution."
He barely sits before she joins him, her curiosity written all over her face. "I don't know how. There's nothing in my range if I'm living by myself."
Reaching for a glass, she drinks as he leans in and removes his glasses.
"That's the beauty of my solution; you won't be alone. It's very simple: you'll share this apartment with me. It would be good for both of us to learn to share a space," he states, causing her to choke momentarily before coughing out the liquid.
Her face turns red, and she struggles to find the right words. "Kyoya, this isn't a joking matter," she replies, standing up.
"I'm not joking; I'm serious," he insists, picking up the contract. "Why else would I have written this up?"
"Taking a debt joke too far," she says, staring into his eyes. It only takes a moment before she finds what she needs and gulps. "Which isn't the case here. You do mean it."
Without another word, she takes the offered contract to read it, and he can tell when she gets to the cost and how he justifies it. At first, her eyes get big, and then her brow furrows in thought before she holds up a hand to do some quick math. Once satisfied, she goes on reading, and when she's done, she lays the paper on the table.
"Why are you doing this?" she asks, hands going to her hips.
It's a combative, skeptical pose, one he's seen many times now. He'd be lying if he says he doesn't find it attractive. She's so fiercely independent, and she also clearly is expecting a certain type of answer from him.
He so enjoys unsettling her; it's a pleasure he rarely gets. Of course he could speak of having more money, of this being a mutually beneficial arrangement, and other reasons, but from the way she is looking at him, she is ready to refute those commonplace arguments. They're not the real reasons he wants her to stay.
Now that he has had all day to think about this, to imagine this new kind of life and want it desperately, he'll use all means at his disposal to win her over, which means using his most dangerous weapon: honesty. He stands, leans down, and presses flat palms to the table.
"Because I would rather have more time with you than not. I selfishly just want your extra time," he says, grinning when she gapes, "because I miss the days before I worked. Is that not reason enough?" Straightening, he folds his arms and gives her a smug look. "Besides, you spent more time here than at your old apartment; this means you never have to leave. This is a pretty good apartment and setup, and it's in your price range."
His confidence helps her recover from her surprise. "Normally I'd be more worried about a roommate, but given that it's you, I think I have a good idea what to expect. But I still don't think it's wise," she replies, stepping back. "I'd still be beholden to you, and it would be problematic if you have to host dinners for work."
Sometimes, he wishes she would just accept help gratefully and move on, but that wouldn't be Haruhi.
Stepping around the table, he approaches her, stopping when there are only a few feet separating them. "I don't think you understand what I'm proposing," he says calmly. "Your presence here only benefits me. You're not inconveniencing me; you make the home more welcoming, not to mention make me look better at dinners because you're here." She looks a little relieved by that, but he continues on. "You won't be in my way: we'll set up a schedule with showers and whatnot. This place will finally be used for more than just sleeping and spending time with you, and I'll take any excuse to have more time with you."
Her cheeks turn red. "I didn't realize you put such a high premium on my company."
"Yours more than anyone else's," he says quietly, meeting her eyes. "And if you're that worried about the price, I'll provide the food and you can cook since you actually like it."
"You'd let me cook for you?" she asks, eyes lighting up.
"Of course. You have in the past, and it's always good," he responds, not sure why she doesn't know that. Quirking a brow, he queries, "Why wouldn't I?"
She takes a step closer, eyes serious. "Eating together most days seems like a luxury. I like the idea of it, but it's something you don't do because of work. You're making time for me, something I don't want you to do," she says, gaze hardening. "You have your own life."
"And I choose to spend it with you," he replies without thinking, feeling his face warm up as he realizes just how close he came to admitting his true feelings aloud. His voice drops as he leans in. "You're doing me a favor. I'm looking forward to having a life and making time for you; what don't you understand about that?"
They're so close now that he can smell her strawberry shampoo. The tension between them makes him want to reach out and touch her, to do something.
Craning her neck, she purses her lips and whispers, "But will this change things between us?"
Ah, the truth comes out. She is thinking about them, and he's relieved to hear it. He sees the fear in her eyes, how much she worries about their dynamic changing, and he wishes he could explain how this is only the beginning of their life together.
Clasping a hand around her wrist, he can feel how her pulse races, and the longer he remains there, the more her breathing and pulse return to normal.
"Our friendship is always changing. This will only make it better," he assures her quietly. "It will deepen it. I'm not about to become your landlord, always looking for money." He smirks. "This isn't high school. Things are very different." When she nods, the tightness in his chest loosens. Taking courage, he tugs on her arm, urging her toward him. "Will you come to the table so we can discuss this further? The food is getting cold, too."
Still reluctant, she reveals a little of what is going on internally when she brings her hand toward her and admits, "You could have anyone you want for a roommate, and yet you choose me."
"Without hesitation," he adds, pulling her back toward him. "You're the only one I'd want or accept."
"I feel like I'm taking advantage of our friendship, though," she confesses in a huff. "You see nothing bad about this situation, and I only see blurred lines. I want to say yes because you truly don't mind or begrudge me doing this, and I know I can depend on you. But I'm still afraid."
"And you think I'm not?" he states, bringing the back of her hand up to rest against his chest.
There, she can feel how his heart pounds nervously over this outcome, and her breath hitches. He lowers his head until his chin could touch her forehead, and she is staring into his eyes, making it hard for him to think of anything but kissing her.
"Your friendship is the most important one to me," he says honestly. "All I want is to make this work."
Her head lifts, and for a moment, he thinks she's going to initiate a kiss. Instead, they share a long moment, heat rising between them expectantly.
She is the first to break the spell, stepping back. "Me too. I am determined to make this work," she says, turning her hand to press her palm against him, and he breathes a little easier. "Let's go sit. And eat."
Joy lightens his bones and makes him want to do something like shout or dance, but he settles for interlacing his fingers with hers and bringing her toward her future, him. If he has his way, she'll never stop sharing a home with him.
Because he's so hellbent on keeping her there, he gives more concessions than usual. He blames it on her being a good lawyer, but really he just wants her to feel comfortable and like she's not taking advantage of him. He maintains to her that he's the one taking advantage of the situation, but she disagrees.
The rest of the night is spent in negotiations, and by the time they retire to bed, both are satisfied with the outcome. The first couple days are an adjustment, but he learns to like the arrangement quickly. She's always smiling and awake when he finally gets up, coffee at the ready, and he genuinely enjoys having dinner with her as much as possible. She may do homework the rest of the night, but she always sets it all aside to have dinner with him.
The biggest adjustment for him is on shower days. In the past, he would get out of the shower and walk around half naked as he let his hair dry. The first time he does that with Haruhi living there, his hair is a little wild and wet, and he is still not fully awake, leading him to almost run into her in the hallway.
"My apologies." He places a hand on her shoulder to prevent their bodies ramming into one another, and that's when he notices that her eyes are glued to his bare chest. Soon after, she starts blushing, and he's never been so glad to have a lean, fit figure. "Haruhi, are you alright?"
"Ah, yes. Of course," she replies, blinking and dragging her gaze away. "I'll just go back to the kitchen and see you later."
Turning tail, she practically jogs out of the hallway, which amuses him. He didn't think he affected her so much, and he is glad to be wrong. As a result, he spends more time outside his room when he can, hoping that his good looks will remind her that he is in fact a man, and an attractive one at that. It takes a number of showers before she stops blushing, and then she takes to averting her eyes. It's very adorable to him.
The rest of their friends take the news of the contract well, all things considering. The twins fight with Tamaki and Renge because both groups want her to stay with them as well, and Kyoya is gratified when Haruhi insists that she will be living with Kyoya only.
The two fall into a pattern that feels as natural as Haruhi is at hosting. They don't have dinner together every night, but he only has to miss a couple meals a week. Depending on the guests he is entertaining, he sometimes regrets having to leave Haruhi's stimulating conversation. She's also on his mind in the most random moments, whether when he's trying something he thinks she would like or when he wonders how she would respond to what the guests say.
The weekends are what he looks forward to most, though. Haruhi had lamented for a time the previous year that he had no work-life balance as he worked on the weekend, and now that she is around, he stows away his laptop and chats with her amidst her studies. Her gaze always gets warmer when he enters the room, and sometimes she puts aside her need to do everything early so they can truly chat.
Their domestic moments and his peace of mind are disturbed briefly one Saturday when Hotta enters with a piece of paper and faces Haruhi. "There is now an opening at an apartment that is in your price range. Would you like me to arrange a meeting with you and the landlord to secure it tomorrow?"
Kyoya's stomach ties itself into knots, and he feels sick. He knew he told Hotta to inform them if anything changed, but he didn't think something would change. This difference comes too soon, and he's genuinely nervous that she'll leave since the open apartment is for somewhere that costs less. He's become so accustomed to this time together, and he doesn't want to give it up.
For several heart-rending moments, Haruhi ponders what to say, and he watches every look on her face, prepared for the worst. When she opens her mouth to speak, he's anxious.
"Thank you for informing me, but no meeting is necessary. Nor do you need to keep searching. I like our arrangement here," she answers, and Kyoya breathes easily at last. She turns to face him. "You don't mind me staying, right?"
"I don't mind. Stay…as long as you like," he requests, brushing his fingers against her arm. "I'm happy with this arrangement as well."
She looks truly happy in that moment, and he couldn't be more relieved. He's not going to lose her, and he silently recommits himself to making her happy.
It's all worth it to see her smile at him.
‐—--
The next time that one of them challenges the other is a few months later.
At work, his brothers are challenging him left and right, trying to assert themselves, and he keeps looking for a chance to prove himself. When his father gives him an opportunity, he develops an idea that is a little too conservative for his taste, but he goes forward with it because that is what everyone seems to want right now. To his horror, his father again rejects his idea, this time saying that the idea isn't innovative at all and would be a waste of company funds.
Haruhi takes the night off studying to comfort him, and at the end of the night, she again ends it by questioning his father. "Your father seems unhappy with whatever direction you go since you've tried both ways and failed. Isn't it possible you'll never satisfy him, or he won't let you?"
"Yes," he admits wearily, head dropping into his lap.
He doesn't like the idea, but it is one that she is forcing him to confront. Why wouldn't his father eventually give approval? Kyoya is clearly outperforming and getting better approval ratings from the various employees that he has developed strong bonds with. He understands the needs of the company and the customer.
He's playing by the rules and winning, but he's still not in the desired place. It's frustrating, but he forgets all about it as Haruhi wraps her arms around his neck and head, running a hand through his raven mane.
Suddenly, nothing else matters but Haruhi, in receiving this gift of physical touch from her, and he craves more. Resisting the urge, he stays where he is and accepts as much as she will give. For a long time, she remains with him, and when his back hurts from hunching, he sits up straight, and to his excitement, she hugs him. Tighter than usual. He doesn't know what he did to deserve it, but she reminds him that he does have a heart. It beats wildly for her, and he falls ever deeper in love with her as he wraps his arms around her, glad to feel her slight form and body heat.
As they sit there silently, the thought that sits with him is this: his father may push him to succeed, but he only continues and succeeds because of Haruhi. She is the one that picks up his broken pieces and unites them until he's stronger thanks to her glue. His father doesn't care what damage is caused, but Haruhi does. For that reason alone, she becomes a higher priority than his father's approval and running the zaibatsu. He can live without being the head of the company, but he can't live without Haruhi.
She eventually ends up in his lap; he's not sure if he brought her there or if she moved there herself. Either way, she's snug against his front, giving him with action what words can never fully give: proof of how much she cares about him. She knows just like he does that a little touch of a hand won't satisfy the deep ache caused by years of pain from his father.
When she starts yawning, he reluctantly lets go of her. "Thank you for being here today. There aren't many I trust to see me like that."
"I'm proud to be one of them," she says, leaning back to smile at him. "You can always depend on me."
She says that, but he doesn't think she realizes how much he is going to test that when a couple days later, his father sends for him. When he enters the room, his brothers are already there, and then his father tells the three about a big event happening in a few days' time.
After his older brothers leave, Kyoya prepares to go, only to be stopped. "Unlike your brothers, you are unmarried. These guests have expectations, as do our stockholders, and if you wish to redeem yourself, you'd better have a woman in attendance with you at these parties going forward. Are you still in contact with that passionate lady who wanted to be a lawyer at Ouran Academy?" asks his father casually.
"I am. Would she be an acceptable candidate?" replies Kyoya, the gears already spinning.
His father nods. "She would. You two were seen together at other events in the past few years, and she has a bright future ahead of her."
"She does."
Such a simple request of his father is easy to fulfill, but he knows she won't enjoy the parties. He wants to ask her because he'd rather get stuck at a dull event with her, but he doesn't want to force her. By the time he arrives home, though, dinner is ready, and he stops thinking about the request as he enjoys Haruhi's company.
Just like every dinner before, it's a low-key affair, the menu known at the beginning of the week once he had groceries delivered. Haruhi is a great meal planner and can make any amount of groceries last, which is helpful. After he bought a wide variety of things in the first few weeks to see what she makes best, he has his favorite meals now that he tends to request his men to grab.
Kyoya always uses her rent money to pay for the food, and the leftover amount is kept in a special account he created specifically to use for spending on her and them. Dinner is the best investment in his mind, as every day, they chat amicably about their day, the mundane and the special.
They feel like a couple in these moments, especially if they end up reaching across the table to touch the other. Tonight he barely rests his fingertips against her wrist when she tells him of the argument she won in class; he has found that she doesn't care for words of praise and would rather have that little pat. He knows he did the right thing when her eyes warm and soften, and her smile grows wider as she says more.
The great thing about this kind of communication is that she doesn't have to stop her story to thank him; she returns the gesture before entwining their fingers together. They don't stay connected for long, and there's no need or expectation of more.
After they clean up, he clears his throat, and once she focuses on him, he starts by saying, "My father surprised me today."
The suggestion to bring a date wasn't unexpected; his father remembering and suggesting her was.
She approaches him, no fear in her eyes. There is only curiosity when it involves his family, especially his father. "What did he say?"
His face gives nothing away as he states, "He instructed me to bring a date to all formal events going forward; it's an expectation certain guests and stockholders will have."
He doesn't know whether to tell her that she was memorable or not, but she takes the need away with her challenge, eyes wide with understanding after she takes a moment to think about it.
"Take me as your date; I'm willing," she declares, looping her arm with his. "I'd like to be able to support you and be there for you, if you're open to me being your partner."
The feeling of her warmth and presence wrapped around him does things to him; it tricks his mind especially when she willingly wants to go out to these events, even with a smile on her face.
He tugs her a little closer, not wanting to let her go. "I can't imagine a better partner," he responds without thinking, making her blush. "We know and trust one another, and I know I can talk to you all night."
"Yes," she replies, nodding. "You won't have to worry about annoying women or looking for someone, either."
He wonders just how much that factor is influencing her. The fact that she's thinking about it is pleasing to him, as he's hoping that she dislikes the idea of him with other women. This way would also save much time for him, but he's still not sure what else she gains from all this.
"And it'll save on dinner expenses for those nights," she adds, making him grin as he faces her.
Ah yes, always thinking of money and food. That's his Haruhi.
Regardless, he still feels the need to ask, "Are you sure you want to subject yourself to more tedious small talk? You'd be stuck with me all night."
She gives him a questioning look, as though asking why that is a bad thing, and he breathes easier.
"If I'm with you, I'll get by just fine. I've always enjoyed the parties where you stay near me best," she reminds him seriously. A moment later, a wry look enters her gaze. "Besides, I've got a running social debt I need to clear, in case you forgot," she jokes.
That draws a chuckle from him. "You do, and this is the perfect way to pay back that large social debt of yours. With as many parties as I attend, though, soon I'll be owing you."
She grins triumphantly. "I hope so. That'd be a nice change. I'm curious to see if your formal events are any better than the ones for my work."
"They're not, but hopefully you'll think so since there are no expectations for you." His voice drops an octave as he leans in, and the air shifts around them. "Just having you there doing what you normally do is all I need. Your support means much to me, and you'll win them all over."
She blinks once, looking up at him through her lashes. When he takes hold of her other elbow, bringing her nearer, she inhales deeply, staring into his eyes, and he never wants this moment to end.
"Thank you," she says eventually, breaking the mood. "When is the next party?"
At that, the rest of the night is spent discussing logistics and studying, as the next party is only a few days away. She already has a gown to wear, and with the warning, she is able to clear her schedule for the event easily.
On the night of the first party, Kyoya showers as usual, leaving the bathroom early when he realizes that he left his dress shirt and tie in his bedroom. Hair wet and askew, he turns a corner in the apartment, only to bump into Haruhi in the hall.
"I'm sorry," he apologizes, pausing when he notices that Haruhi is staring pointedly at his bare chest. Not only that, but she is blushing, and he grins like a Cheshire Cat. As soon as she yanks her eyes up, he hides all evidence of how happy he is that she is noting how he looks physically, and he clears his throat. "I left my shirt in my room. Excuse me."
"Of course," she replies, speeding away in the opposite direction, and that is enough for him.
With time hopefully, she'll notice more details about him and fall for him as much as he has for her.
While they're riding to the first party of many to come, he elects for honesty, just in case his father approaches her.
"My father may speak to you tonight," he warns her, leaning back in his seat.
"Why would he?" she asks, brow furrowing as she puts on her heels.
Even after many parties, she still dislikes wearing her heels longer than necessary. It's an endearing quirk that he loves seeing.
"Because he remembers you from the Ouran Fair all those years ago," he explains, smiling as he adds, "You made quite an impression on him. When he told me that I needed to bring a date, he actually suggested that I bring you."
Her eyes bug out. "Really?"
"Yes, not that it mattered much. I was going to ask you regardless of who he mentioned," states Kyoya, adjusting his glasses and placing a hand on her exposed knee so she looks at him. "My mind went immediately to you. Any other lady I've come across would be…less than desirable."
Shivering, she holds his gaze until he removes his hand, after lingering slightly longer than he should. Each little touch of her skin is only a taste, whetting his appetite for the time when he can say definitively that she is his. This moment of soft, warm skin is all that he'll have tonight, and he has accepted that.
"Then I'm glad this arrangement was reached," she replies lightly, smiling momentarily.
Her smile makes him wish she was still hosting, just so he'd have an excuse to pay and monopolize all her time. In that respect, he's glad for this evening and all those to come. In a small way, he's even grateful toward his father for insisting that he have a date.
Once he moves back into his seat, she continues preparing to leave his car, a comfortable silence between them. Right before they leave the quiet of the vehicle, Haruhi steels herself, and Kyoya cleans his glasses one last time before pasting a host smile onto his face.
They're barely inside, and his father is there, chatting with a board member. To Kyoya's great surprise, Yoshio pauses his conversation to greet them. The older man in his glasses and severe suit doesn't smile, but his eyes sparkle just for a moment, long enough for Kyoya to know that he has done well.
"Good evening," greets his father, and Kyoya bows before greeting him in turn and introducing Haruhi. Once she says her bit, his father is ready. "I'm glad you could join us this evening. A rising star like yourself at your company is always welcome at our gatherings."
Kyoya is beyond pleased that Haruhi is known to his father already; it is proof of how good and hardworking she is. Haruhi takes it as only she can, trying to downplay it before thanking him and heading to the refreshments. Because he knows her habits at these kinds of events well, Kyoya leaves with her and subtly leads her toward her favorite part of any party: the food.
"He hasn't changed at all since I last saw him," she says of his father once they find something to drink. "I wish I could like him better."
Doing a double take, Kyoya puts down his glass. "What do you mean?" he asks, intensely curious.
"I thought I was fairly obvious with that; I don't care for him. Ever since the Ouran Fair, I've had a bad opinion of him, and it's only gotten worse as you tell me what he puts you through at work. I know I shouldn't feel that way," she says, sighing, "but I can't help it. He doesn't treat you as you deserve."
The fact that she hates his father because of Kyoya makes his night. "Thank you," he says quietly, meeting her gaze.
Soon after, someone approaches them, and they are forced to mingle until a socially acceptable time when they can leave. When they make it home, he calls the night a rousing success, and he's secretly excited for all such future events.
Two months pass by, and Kyoya doesn't think anything could interrupt their arrangements until Hotta approaches them after dinner one night, focused on Haruhi.
"I know you did not request it, but I have continued searching for apartments. A single bedroom apartment is available in your price range."
Haruhi gapes in surprise, and Kyoya's heart stops. He can't lose her. He doesn't want to lose her. Not now. They've come so far and done too much. He can't blame her for wanting to leave since the apartment in question costs a little less than she pays currently, but the thought of going back to a cold, sterile apartment each night without Haruhi doesn't feel right. Not when he's known such bliss having her there.
As she processes the information, he schools his features, hoping that he'll influence her decision but all the while not wanting to stop her if that is what she really wants. He waits with bated breath until she wakes up a moment later and comes to a decision.
"Thank you for informing me. I'm not interested. Please cease searching for me furthermore," she says, making his heart rise. She turns to Kyoya. "I actually really like staying here and have no desire to change something good like what we have. Wouldn't you agree?"
"Yes. Why fix it if it isn't broken?" he responds, grateful.
She nods, reaching out and taking his hand. "Good. I'm glad we agree."
"So am I, Haruhi. So am I," he whispers.
She's happy here and likes what they have. He's never been more relieved.
Author's Notes: Thanks for reading!