"Mitsukuni, you're here," Haruhi said, pulling him into a hug. She noticed the downcast expression on his face when he and Takashi walked through the front door and into the lobby of Hinansho. "I've missed you two so much."

A smile brightened his face as he replied, "It's good to see you guys. University has been harder than expected, especially without your smile, Haruhi." After another hug, he released her to Takashi.

Takashi picked her up and hugged her gently. "Thank you for sending the treats and the encouraging texts. They've meant a lot to both of us."

It was hard for Kyoya to keep the look of envy off his face as he watched the cousins with Haruhi.

She pulled Mitsukuni and Takashi across the lobby to where the other hosts were waiting to greet them. Tamaki insisted on hugs, while Kyoya shook their hands, and the twins resorted to pats on the back. Takashi surreptitiously checked Mitsukuni's back for a 'kick me' or similar sign that could have been placed by the twins.

Tamaki piped up, "We're eating in my apartment tonight. It's more informal and we can take all the time we want."

As they headed to the elevator, Mitsukuni asked, "Who have you replaced us with in the Host Club?"

"We haven't," Tamaki replied simply.

Puzzled, Takashi asked, "Why not Yasuchika and Satoshi?"

Tamaki looked a little embarrassed. "First of all, we could never replace you two. The truth is, I wasn't looking for another 'boy lolita' or 'wild' type. As I started considering people to invite to join the Host Club, no one seemed to be 'right' for us. I haven't found anyone unique enough."

Remembering the conversation the Host Club had the first week they were back at Ouran, Haruhi interrupted as he started to get frustrated with his explanation. "It has to do with spending his early years in France. There, people try to be different or stand out. Here in Japan, conformity and fitting in is more acceptable."

Tamaki wrestled back control of the conversation. "In each of you, I saw something unique and that's why I asked you to join the Host Club. I haven't been able to find anyone new to fit that ideal."

"So we're still part of the Host Club?" Mitsukuni asked tentatively, a note of hope in his voice.

Placing a hand on his shoulder, Tamaki said forcefully, "Mon ami, even if I found a dozen others to ask to join us, you will always—ALWAYS—be a part of the Host Club.

Sniffing softly, Mitsukuni whispered, "Thanks, Tama-chan, I needed to hear that."

Takashi caught Haruhi's eye, glancing at Mitsukuni and then back to her. His expression conveyed, "We need to talk."

She nodded to indicate that she understood.

The group arrived at Tamaki's apartment door, he flung it open, and proclaimed flamboyantly, "Come in. Come in. Dinner is waiting for us. Plenty of time to talk about business this weekend. For tonight, let's relax and have fun."

OHSHC

After dinner, they settled around the living room to watch a movie, The Princess Bride, an American favorite that the girls of Ouran had been gushing over lately.

Kyoya sat at the end of the sofa closest to the door, hoping to slip away while everyone else was distracted by the movie. "Maybe I can get some work done tonight. I really don't want to sit here and watch Mitsukuni, Takashi, or Tamaki with Haruhi," he thought sourly.

Much to his surprise, Haruhi sat next to him and leaned against his side. Instinctively, he moved his arm to the back of the sofa to make more room for her to get comfortable. "I was not expecting this," Kyoya thought, a smile playing on his lips. "I guess work can wait."

Kyoya tensed slightly when Mitsukuni sat down next to Haruhi and then laid his head in her lap. She gently ran her fingers through his fluffy blond hair and, within minutes, he was asleep.

Haruhi whispered to Kyoya, "He looked so exhausted during dinner. I guess the transition to University has been hard on him."

"You're good for him," Kyoya whispered in return, feeling a tightness in his chest thinking about the growing closeness between Haruhi and Mitsukuni.

Before Haruhi could comment on Kyoya's statement, Takashi sat down on the other end of the sofa and placed Mitsukuni's feet on his lap. He whispered to Haruhi, "I'll carry him to his apartment in a few minutes. He hasn't been sleeping well lately. In fact, this is the most peaceful I've seen him since we started University. Thank you."

Haruhi smiled softly down at Mitsukuni and ran her fingers through his hair gently. "It's no problem, Takashi. Glad I could help." Then she snuggled back into Kyoya's side and turned her attention to the movie.

Kyoya had a sense of déjà vu, remember the photo Fuyumi had teased him about, the one Tachibana had taken of the four of them in the back of the limousine the first time the Host Club had visited Hinansho.

OHSHC

Kairi insisted on serving brunch in the small dining room so they could have their business meeting at their leisure. "Kosaku and Hibiki put together these reports for reference," Kairi said as he handed out the packets around the room. "Shima, Tachibana, and I have already read them so we'll let you look through them while you enjoy your meal. The packet contains a comparison of the summer revenues with the revenues for the past six weeks, a map of the estate with some suggested additions, and a summary of the customer comments that were gathered."

Haruhi's eyes grew wide as she read the financial reports. "Kyoya, does this look right to you?" she whispered, leaning over and pointing to the net income line.

Kyoya hummed to himself as he perused the documents. "It certainly appears to be. I'm sure Shima, Kairi, and Kosaku will answer any questions we have later."

Pulling a pen out of her satchel, Haruhi started making notes on the packet. "I need to learn more about business. I can't expect Kyoya to always be available to answer my questions. It would probably make it easier to handle the household finances for Dad and me if I knew more," she thought pensively.

Kosaku sat at one corner of the table eating slowly while discreetly watching the Host Club. "They all appear to be taking this very seriously despite their youth. I guess Fuyumi wasn't exaggerating when she told me Haruhi and Kyoya were the driving forces behind the Hinan family."

Shima smiled indulgently as she watched over the dining room. "In a way, I'm glad Shizue fired me. This is so much more fun than the second Suoh mansion, even with Master Tamaki there."

Noticing that everyone had finished eating, Kosaku stood up and asked, "Does anyone have any questions?"

Haruhi blurted out, "Are these figures accurate? I don't know that much about business, but the revenues and net income seem higher than I would have expected."

Kosaku smiled. "That surprised me, too. But if you look in the comments section, you'll see that our test groups during the first week unanimously expressed the opinion that we were greatly underpricing our offerings. Because of Kairi's diligence in getting the best quality ingredients, we felt justified in raising the prices. And because he gets such at a good deal, we keep expenses low, thereby increasing the profit margin. Quite a few of our customers also indicated that they were quite willing to pay a premium price for the 'home' atmosphere at Hinansho."

"Where did you obtain your test groups?" Kyoya inquired.

Chuckling, Kosaku answered, "From the scheduled events. As soon as you all gave the go-ahead to expand, we invited participants in those events to try the new restaurant, lounge, and accommodations."

Kairi added, "Not only did they come, but they told their friends as well. Word-of-mouth is usually the best, and most affordable, advertising."

With a nod, Shima entered the conversation. "The only area that has been underutilized so far are the accommodations. But that is to be expected as most of our current customers are local."

Hikaru said, "I'd like to talk about the proposal of adding more greenhouses. I think it would be a great idea, especially if one was for flowers for out-of-season events."

Kairi interjected, "That's a good idea. I'd also like to have a larger one for dwarf fruit trees so we can have fresh produce all year."

"Good thinking," Kaoru responded. "The best location may be near the west boundary of the property because of the development in progress over there. Depending on what they're building, It could ruin the aesthetic of the gardens for weddings and photo shoots. Does anyone know what's going in over there?"

Tachibana spoke up. "The signs give no indication, just the name of the company doing the work, Cormorant Construction. I plan to investigate it thoroughly this week."

"We were going to suggest looking into them. They sound kind of fishy," Hikaru said, trying hard to keep a straight face.

Kaoru started laughing and Hikaru couldn't hold out any longer.

Everyone looked at them questioningly and finally Kairi asked, "What's so funny?"

Once Kaoru caught his breath, he wheezed, "Cormorant—fishy—get it?

Kairi slapped his forehead. "I walked right into that one."

Wiping his eyes, Kaoru said, "But seriously, Hikaru is right about looking into them. I seem to recall hearing complaints about that company. I just can't remember what it was exactly."

Kyoya inserted, "In addition, I think it would be prudent to have a surveyor check our boundaries, given the facts surrounding Hinansho's beginning. Kairi, I am also very interested in your idea about purchasing the Oota farm to the east. You note that the couple is getting on in years and none of their children are interested in farming. Hinansho growing its own produce is a much better idea than letting some developer turn it into an office building, factory, or competing resort. Perhaps we should have that property surveyed as well while the crew is here—with the owner's permission, of course."

"Hey, Kairi," Haruhi interrupted, "would it be possible to meet the Ootas today? I would like to talk to them about the farm."

"Actually, Dai and Miku have been anxious to meet the Host Club. They would like us to go over and have tea with them this afternoon."

"Then we better get this business meeting wrapped up," Shima scolded good-naturedly.

Looking at his notes, Kosaku muttered, "Let's see, where were we?" He flipped a couple pages back and forth. "Okay, we've talked about the financial results, the greenhouses, the development to the west, and purchasing the farm. That leaves music in the lounge and restaurant, hosting some public school activities, and investing excess cash."

"Excess cash," Haruhi said, chuckling and shaking her head. "Never thought I'd ever be in a situation where I would hear that phrase."

Kyoya spoke up, "I have a proposal that I would like to put forth on that front. A nearby clinic that will be shut down if a buyer is not found soon. It is the only medical facility within a twenty-kilometer radius. The Otori Group is selling it because they feel the margins are too low to generate sufficient income to remain viable."

"That sounds like them," Haruhi grumbled, scowling.

For the first time during the meeting, Hibiki spoke up, "That clinic really is necessary. What would happen if there were a life-threatening situation? Twenty kilometers is too far to go and too long to delay medical treatment."

"My thoughts exactly," Kyoya affirmed. "The Hinan family's purchase would let the community around Hinansho know that we care and we're not just a bunch of spoiled rich kids."

"Well, aren't you though?" Atsuhiro teased. "Okay, all but Haruhi."

"And don't you forget it," Hikaru and Kaoru chorused in unison. Everyone laughed at the good-natured banter.

Kairi interjected, "All kidding aside, it really is a good idea. Kyoya, is it viable, despite what the Otori Group says?"

"I happen to know that the clinic is highly viable, even though its profit margin is not up to Otori standards. It could use some deferred maintenance and capital improvements, but it is a good investment. I mean that in goodwill with the community, as well as financially."

"So, Kyoya," Fuyumi asked, "are you going to do the negotiating?" She wiggled her eyebrows teasingly.

Kyoya grinned savagely. "I would be honored to negotiate the purchase for the Hinan family. As long as I do it via my Hinan Family email, they'll never know it was me."

"And they'll never know what hit them," Tamaki added, grinning.

Kosaku laughed. "Looks like we chose the right man to handle investing for the Hinan family."

Atsuhiro raised his hand for attention. "If we're done with that order of business, I have an update on the public school hosting. The representative from the Board of Governors contacted me this morning."

Kosaku looked to Kyoya, who nodded in response.

"Okay, Atsuhiro," Kosaku said, "what did the representative have to say?"

"Well, they are very interested in the offer. However, there are many regulations that have to be satisfied before we can start hosting the schools. It will probably take a year to get all the approvals in place."

Mitsukuni looked downcast. "You mean we can't do it?"

Haruhi patted his hand comfortingly. "No, it just means it won't be right now. But think about it, that gives us time to put in the sports fields."

"That's true," Takashi added.

"So we can do it?" Mitsukuni asked, needing confirmation.

"Yes," Atsuhiro assured him. "It will happen, just not right now. And Haruhi's right, this will give us more time to get ready."

"Good," Mitsukuni said with a relieved smile. "Oh, would it be possible to add gardening clubs? Would it take any longer to meet the regulations than for just the sports?"

"Gardening is a good idea," Atsuhiro replied. "I'll have the representative look into it."

Kosaku checked his notes. "That just leaves the discussion about music in the restaurant and lounge."

Tamaki piped up, "I know karaoke is popular on Friday and Saturday nights because people like to use it to blow off steam and relax."

"An open mic night each week could give local talent an opportunity to show off their skills," Kaoru added.

"That might be a way to locate local talent to hire for one or two of the other nights of the week," Tamaki suggested.

Kairi said, "Those ideas would work great for the lounge. Well, the local talent could also include instrumentalists that would work well in the restaurant."

"Do any of the staff have hidden musical talents?" Tamaki asked.

Hibiki softly inserted, "There are a few who have expressed the desire to play in both venues. There may be more who haven't said anything yet."

Tamaki started to pretend to play piano on the table. "I'd love the opportunity to play a few sets in the restaurant from time to time when I'm here."

Shima asked, "Hibiki, would you be willing to schedule events and artists for the two venues?"

"Sure, I think I can do that," she agreed tentatively.

"Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it," Takashi said, looking pointedly at Haruhi, who blushed lightly under his gaze.

"Hey, I've been learning," Haruhi protested. "I asked you guys for your help with the Hinan family."

"You have a point," Takashi returned, the corner of his lip curling slightly as he tried to suppress a smile.

Kosaku inquired, "Have we covered everything?"

They looked around at each other to see if there were any more questions. There were several shrugs and shaking heads to indicate they were all satisfied with the outcome of the meeting.

"Well, then it looks like…."

Shima interrupted him. "I have one bit of business that I believe is long overdue."

Yielding the floor to her, Kosaku gestured for her to continue.

"The Host Club," she met the eyes of each of the seven members, "or should I say, the Hinan family, have been very generous to their employees. However, it has come to my attention that they have not been getting paid for their management services."

"But that's not necessary," Haruhi protested.

Shima pinned her with a pointed look. "Listen here, young lady. You have been doing the work, therefore you should be properly compensated for it."

Kyoya pushed up his glasses and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "I must agree with Shima. And I am ashamed to say I have been so busy that it had not occurred to me."

"So that's why you asked all those questions, Shima?" Kosaku inquired.

"Yes. I should have said something this summer while they were all here working so hard during their vacation. Be that as it may, we need to deal with it now."

"What do you propose?" Kyoya asked.

Shima retrieved some folders from the sideboard and handed them out to the hosts and one to Kosaku. "I have calculated what I believe you should have been paid for your work-do-date and what you should be paid going forward."

"But this is too much," Haruhi protested, gaping at the sums listed on the first sheet of the paperwork in her folder.

After reading through the summary in his folder, Kosaku interjected, "Just as you all insisted that we were worth the generous compensation packages when you hired us, you all are worth this." He gestured to the sheet he held.

"Will this interfere with the plans to purchase the clinic and farm?" Haruhi asked nervously.

"Not at all," Kosaku replied. "When Shima started working on the calculations, we decided to build it into the compensation budget. Tachibana and Fuyumi helped set up Hinan family bank accounts for each of you. The compensation you have already earned was deposited into them and your future paychecks will be as well. The information on your bank accounts is in your folders."

Haruhi looked dumbstruck. Mitsukuni patted her arm and said, "I guess the rest of us kind of expected this since we have other investments and businesses."

Taking a deep breath, Haruhi said humbly, "Kosaku, could you help me understand all of this?"

"I would be happy to," he assured her. "In fact, I know of a few online accounting, finance, and investment courses you could take. You could even get college credit for your work."

"Hmm, that sounds like a good idea," Haruhi said. "Thank you."

"Glad to help. We can talk about it before you leave on Sunday."

Kairi stood up and asked, "Are we done here now? It's almost time for me to take the hosts over to have tea with the Ootas."

Shima looked around and then nodded. "Yes, we're done here. Kairi, you take the young people over to the farm. Be sure to be back in time for dinner."

"I already gave my staff the menu for tonight's dinner. I have complete confidence in them," Kairi responded as he held the door open for the hosts.

Hikaru asked, "Kairi, can you tell us about the Ootas?"

"I think I'll just let Dai and Miku tell you all about themselves. Their children and grandchildren don't visit very often and they look forward to talking to young people."

On the walk past the dojo headed to the farm, Kaoru noted, "You must make the trek over to the farm a lot. It looks like you've worn a regular path."

"You could say that. I head over almost every day to buy fresh produce. There are also a few on staff who like to go over the help with chores. So, yeah, we've worn a path."

Kyoya jotted something in his ever-present notebook. "It may be prudent to pave a path from the main house to the farm since we plan on purchasing the farm eventually. The path would also have offshoots that head to the koi pond, the meditation garden, and the dojo. It should be wide enough to accommodate carts transporting produce or equipment."

Haruhi glanced at Kyoya and smiled, remembering their conversation about her history paper on the Great Wall of China. "At least we don't need to surround the path with walls," she teased.

Kyoya fought a blush as everyone else looked confused. "It's an inside joke," Haruhi chuckled.

"Oh, really?" the twins chorused, looking mischievous.

Now Haruhi was blushing as she stammered, "It was…I asked…umm."

Kyoya came to her rescue. "When Haruhi first came to me about the whole idea of the Hinan family, she used the excuse of having me proofread her history paper. There were some observations about the crop fields in China regarding narrow paths, equidistant walls, and an additional path/cart trail on top of the walls."

Kairi broke then tension with this announcement. "We're here." He knocked on the door of the neat little farmhouse. It was answered almost immediately.

"Oh, Kairi, punctual as usual," a petite woman in her sixties said as she opened the door. "I am so happy to meet all of you. I'm Miku Oota. Please come in, come in." She stood to one side as she opened the door wide and gestured for them to enter.

They each slipped their shoes off and set them neatly near the front door with the two pairs they assumed belonged to the Ootas.

Miku led them into the kitchen bathed in natural light from the large windows looking out over the fields. At the table, sat an older man with a build slightly smaller than Takashi's. He stood and said, "It is so good to meet all of you. Kairi has told us so much about you."

"I'm Dai Oota and you've met my wife, Miku." Stepping forward, he shook Takashi's hand. "You must be Takashi Morinozuka. Kairi said you were the sentinel of the group. And this must be your cousin, Mitsukuni Haninozuka." He offered his hand in turn to the short blond.

"I'm pleased to meet you," Mitsukuni replied.

"You're just as adorable as he described you."

Next he offered a hand to one of the twins. "Kairi said you two are Hikaru and Kaoru Hitachiin but he was not able to tell me which one is which."

"Want to the play the 'Which one is Hikaru?' game?" they asked in chorus.

Dai laughed. "Maybe after I have some time to get to know you."

"Well, so far, Haruhi is the only one who has been able to really tell us apart. I'm Kaoru."

"And I'm Hikaru." Then the twins changed places several times very quickly, making the introductions useless.

"I see it will take careful observation of you two before I'm ready to play your game, because I like to win."

Dai turned and held his hand out to Haruhi. "I take it you are Haruhi Fujioka, since you are the only girl in the group. How do you put up with these guys and their antics?" He smiled broadly and chuckled.

"One day I'll introduce you to my dad and then it will be obvious." Haruhi smiled as she shook his hand firmly.

"That leave you two to be Kyoya Otori and Tamaki Suoh." Dai held out his hand first to Kyoya and then to Tamaki.

Kyoya simply nodded in response. Tamaki gushed, "It's so good to meet a real farmer."

Haruhi rolled her eyes and said, "Don't mind him. He gets excited very easily."

Miku took charge and said, "Please have a seat and enjoy your tea. I also made karinto fresh this morning. My daughter, Mio, sent me the recipe for these little doughnut sticks. They are very popular in the restaurant at the hotel where her husband works."

"How many children do you have?" Haruhi asked.

"We have two sons and one daughter," Miku responded. "Mio is the middle child. She lives in Okinawa where her husband is the manager at a popular hotel. They have two sons and a grandchild due any day now."

"What about your sons?" Tamaki asked. "Do they live around here?"

Miku shook her head. "No, that's why we enjoy it so much when Kairi and the other young people from Hinansho come over to buy produce or help out around the farm."

Dai interjected, "Haru, our oldest, is a salesman for an international firm. He always wanted to travel the world and he loves meeting new people. He tries to stop by at least once a year, but it all depends on his vacation schedule and where he is at the time."

Sighing, Miku continued, "Our youngest, Yamato, plays viola in the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. We try to make it to at least one of his concerts every year."

Kyoya remarked, "You must be very proud of your children and the lives they've built for themselves."

"Make no mistake," Dai said, "we are very proud. But I have to admit it's a little disappointing that not one of them has any interest in the farm. I hate to think of a developer turning this into a strip mall or housing development. The property your place—Hinansho, you call it?—sits on used to belong to my brother. Neither of his children were interested in farming so he sold it to some developer and moved to Hokkaido to be near his children and grandchildren. The property on the other side of yours that's being developed now, used to belong to my sister, but she died and her husband couldn't stand all the memories so he sold it."

"That's too bad," Takashi murmured sadly. "It's sad to see agricultural land disappearing in favor of commercialism."

Miku patted his arm and said, "It's good to hear a young person say that these days."

Dai sighed. "I don't know what I'm going to do when I get too old to farm."

Kyoya looked at Kairi inquiringly and Kairi responded with a nod.

"I may have a solution, if you are amenable," Kyoya commented.

"Oh?" Dai responded.

Kyoya nodded, "Kairi has mentioned how much he likes having fresh produce so close at hand for the restaurant. He suggested approaching you about an option for right of first refusal."

"What exactly does that mean?" Miku interrupted.

"It means we would pay you a sum of money now so that when you decide to sell the property in the future, we have the right to buy it or refuse it first, before anyone else. Even if someone approaches you with an offer before you make the decision to sell," Kyoya explained.

"So you want to do that, with us, for the farm?" Dai questioned.

Kyoya continued, "I was thinking about it, but I may have a better idea. What would you say to an arrangement where we purchase the farm, hire you to manage it, and bring out university agricultural students to do their internships? You might find a new manager you could train among those interns. When you decide to retire, as long as you've trained a new manager, it will be an easy transition because you won't have to worry about selling the farm, you'll just have to decide what you want to do in your retirement."

"That's…hmm…interesting," Dai hedged. "Can we have some time to think about it?"

Kyoya chuckled, "Of course, it's just an idea at this point. The same with the option to buy. Oh, before I forget, we're bringing a survey crew out to check the boundaries of Hinansho, for a variety of reasons. Would you mind if we had your property surveyed as well?"

"Why would you want to do that?" Miku asked suspiciously.

Haruhi cut in. "You heard about the scandal at the resort that is now Hinansho?"

"Well, yes, there was a lot of talk about embezzlement and fraud," Dai allowed.

"Well, that's how we bought the property, from the court-ordered sale. Recently we were wondering if there might be other problems with the property, such as construction beyond the legal boundaries. We thought it would be prudent to have the property surveyed to be sure. We couldn't help wondering if Hinansho isn't encroaching on your farm's legal boundaries."

Dai smiled. "I see. You want to be sure everything is on the up-and-up."

"Exactly," Kyoya replied, glaring at Haruhi as if to say, 'Let me handle this.' She smirked at him in return.

"And it also relates to your proposal of purchasing the farm, either now or in the future?" Dai asked.

"Even if you decide not to accept the option or sell the farm, we would still like to have your property surveyed," Kyoya clarified.

"Fine by me," Dai replied.

Kairi spoke up, "We should be heading back now. I need to put the finishing touches on my specialty dessert for tonight."

"I wonder what Haruhi's relationship is with these boys?" Miku thought. "Is it just friendship or is there some hanky-panky going on? I really need to talk to her all by herself to get some answers. I hope she doesn't think I'm just a nosy old biddy. She seems to be too good a girl to be used by these elite families."

"Could Haruhi stay for a little longer? I haven't had a good girl-talk session in a while," Miku asked. She looked disappointed that their guests were leaving so soon.

Tamaki was about to protest when Takashi turned to Dai and said, "Would you show me the animals?"

Mitsukuni piped up, "That's right! Takashi likes animals. He has a pet chicken and a tanuki."

Dai smiled. "I'd be happy to, Takashi. You can walk Haruhi back afterward so your friends don't have to worry about her."

Kairi did not miss the looks of disappointment and envy on the faces Tamaki, Kyoya, and the twins. He acknowledged Dai's comment by saying, "Okay, that should work." Turning to Takashi and Haruhi, he said, "We'll see you two soon. Don't be late for dinner."

"We won't," Haruhi assured him.

"Hn," Takashi added, nodding.

Dai turned to Takashi and commented, "We don't have as many animals as we used to but the two of us couldn't keep up with the chores. We have a couple cows, a couple pigs, and a small flock of chickens." His voice trailed off as the two men walked out the door.

Miku turned to Haruhi and smiled, "Thank you for indulging an old woman. I spend far too much time alone."

Haruhi chuckled, "I'm not much into the usual girl-talk, as you can imagine since I hang out with six guys."

"Actually, they are the reason I wanted to talk to you." Miku looked at Haruhi sternly.

"They are?" Haruhi murmured, blushing slightly and lowering her head under the gaze of the older woman. "I haven't done anything wrong, so why am I blushing?" she wondered.

In her most matronly voice, Miku asked, "Just what is your relationship to those six young men? I am familiar with their family names, but yours is completely unknown to me."

"We're friends," Haruhi stated bluntly.

"Is that all?" Miku's tone implied that it would be unwise to lie to her.

Haruhi took a deep breath. "Yes, we're just friends. I may be a commoner, but I worked hard and earned a scholarship to Ouran Academy. I hadn't planned on getting involved in any of the activities, just keeping my head down, getting grades good enough to qualify for scholarships to University."

She chuckled to herself. "On my first day, I was looking for a quiet place to study. You'd think that with three libraries, it would be easy, but no. I found what I thought was an empty room, but it turned out to be the meeting place for the Host Club. I accidently broke an expensive vase and agreed to work off the debt."

Miku's expression was displeased as she considered what type of 'work' elite family boys could want from a girl. She inquired, "How did they want you to work off the debt?"

At first, Haruhi was taken aback at her vehemence. "Oh no, nothing improper. I should explain. Because of my appearance, they thought I was a boy when they first met me. Here, I have a photo that Kyoya gave me that shows what I looked like that first day."

She pulled out her wallet and slipped a photo out of one of the slots. "Here is what I looked like: very short hair, big glasses, and dressed in slacks, a button-down shirt, and a sweater vest. Because I was a scholarship student and couldn't afford the uniform, I was allowed to wear regular clothes. I've never paid a lot of attention to appearances. I figure it's what's inside that's most important."

Seeing Miku's unconvinced expression, Haruhi pulled out her old middle school ID and continued, "My hair was short because a neighborhood boy put a huge wad of gum in my hair the day before school started. I tried lots of different things to get the gum out, but in the end, I just had to cut my hair. And I didn't do a very good job."

Miku's face relaxed and she started to chuckle at the contract between the two pictures Haruhi showed her. "So what did they have you doing?"

"I was the Club Dog—running errands, cleaning up—that sort of thing. That is, until Tamaki saw me interacting so easily with the guests. He decided it would take less time to pay off my debt if I worked as a host. They supplied me with contacts and a uniform. They even fixed my awful haircut. They dubbed me the 'Natural' host because I could talk to anyone and set them at ease."

"When did they figure out you were a girl?"

"Actually, Kyoya knew from the beginning. He has a frighteningly extensive information network. Over the course of the Host Club hours, they all figured it out in one way or another. Tamaki was the last one. It was kind of fun to watch the dawning realization on each of their faces."

"So there's nothing improper going on?" Miku inquired.

"No, nothing like that. A couple of them have expressed a desire for a romantic relationship, but I'm not interested right now. There are only two of them that I might consider later, but for now I have to keep my grades up to maintain my scholarship and I plan to become a lawyer like my mother."

"That's sensible and admirable. I'm sure your mother is very proud of you."

Haruhi's expression saddened. "I hope so. You see, she died when I was five. It's just been my father and me for years."

"Well, if you ever need any motherly advice, I'm here for you," Miku whispered as she patted Haruhi's hand.

Miku and Haruhi were startled when Dai opened the kitchen door and announced, "We're back."

Placing her hand on her chest, Miku chastised, "What are you trying to do, give me a heart attack?"

Dai looked sheepish. "You looked so deep in conversation I thought I better let you know we were here so we didn't intrude on any 'womanly secrets'."

Takashi spoke quietly, "Haruhi, we should get going. It's almost time for dinner."

"Now he speaks," Dai chuckled. "That young man doesn't say much, but the animals just love him. I actually had to put the chickens in the henhouse and fasten the door. They were all trying to follow him home."

The corner of Takashi's mouth quirked, hinting at a smile, and his eyes twinkled.

Haruhi stood up and said, "Thank you, Dai and Miku, for having us over. Hopefully we'll see more of you in the future."

"We'll walk you to the door," Dai replied, gesturing for the young people to precede him.

At the front door, Haruhi and Takashi slipped on their shoes.

"Thank you for the visit," Haruhi said, smiling at the older couple.

"Don't be strangers," Miku replied.

As Takashi closed the door behind them, he heard Dai ask, "Did you find out what you wanted to know?" He paused to hear Miku's reply. "Yes. There's nothing untoward going on. Just a bunch of school friends. I'll tell you the story over dinner."

Taking a few long strides to catch up to Haruhi, Takashi asked, "Did you have a good talk with Miku?"

"Yes. She's really sweet and very motherly," she answered wistfully. After a couple steps, she added, "You know, despite what Dai said, you have been talking a lot more lately."

He considered for a moment before replying, "I hadn't thought about it, but you're right. At least around the Host Club and Hinansho."

"Well, I for one, like hearing your voice more."

They walked in comfortable silence for a minute. Haruhi remember that Takashi wanted to talk to her about Mitsukuni. She asked, "You're worried about Mitsukuni, aren't you?"

Takashi sighed and looked up at the sky. "He has been acting…different lately. He's been irritable and complaining of headaches, nausea, and blurry vision. He insists that it's just stress from adjusting to university, I'm beginning to worry."

"Have you suggested seeing a doctor?" Haruhi inquired pensively.

Taking a deep breath, Takashi replied, "I did. Mitsukuni didn't speak to me for a week afterwards. It made things…tense in the apartment."

Haruhi stopped walking and placed a hand on his arm. "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Takashi closed his eyes and relished her touch as he considered what to say. "I just don't know."

"Does he have Usa-chan with him at University?"

"No, he doesn't dare. His father and brother tend to stop by unannounced when they're visiting the nearby dojo. The last thing Mitsukuni wants is for them to find out he still has Usa-chan."

"That makes sense."

"Maybe if you keep sending him text messages? I've noticed that he tends to calm down when he reads them."

"I can do that." Glancing around, she said, "We'd better get to dinner.

"Yes, we don't want the others to come looking for us," Takashi smiled and quirked an eyebrow as Haruhi shuddered at the thought.

OHSHC

After dinner, the hosts gathered in Hikaru's apartment. Tamaki paced the floor, swinging his arms wildly. "We need to come up with a FANTASTIC cosplay for Halloween. Does anyone have any suggestions?"

"Toy Story," Mitsukuni shouted. "We could dress up like the different toys."

"Given how rabid Disney is about its copyrights, we'd have to buy off-the-rack and I just can't wear mass-produced polyester," Hikaru responded. "What about Star Wars?"

"We've done that," Tamaki said dismissively. "How about Harry Potter?"

"Done that," Kyoya stated. He swiped through several screens on his phone. "Zombies are popular this year."

"Well, there are two ways they can be done, realistic or campy. The realistic ones would be way too gross. We don't want to traumatize the ladies," Haruhi pointed out. "As for the campy ones, I just can't see you guys in ratty, shredded old clothes any more than mass-produced polyester. Do you have any ideas, Takashi?"

He pondered for a minute. "Vampires and werewolves are popular right now too."

Tamaki scoffed. "That's what everybody is doing these days. But I'll keep it in mind if nothing better comes up."

"What about Howl's Moving Castle?" Haruhi asked.

"Not enough good characters. No, no, no. I want something new and unusual. Something that captures the imagination and the spirit of Halloween," Tamaki whined.

"I'VE GOT IT!" Kaoru shouted, jumping to his feet. "Let's do 'Princess Bride.' The ladies will love it."

Kyoya cocked his head in thought. "That is a sound idea."

"YES," Tamaki shouted, pumping his fist. "We have our Halloween cosplay."

Hikaru interrupted Tamaki's overly enthusiastic reaction. "Kaoru and I can easily get the costumes ready in time. Who will be dressing which part?"

Tamaki shifted his theatrics. "Well, of course, Haruhi will be sweet, demure Princess Buttercup."

"That's kind of playing against type," she responded.

"What a great idea!" Kaoru interjected. "We can each play against type. Hikaru and I can be the rivals, Count Rugen and Inigo Montoya. Mitsukuni can play Vizzini, the scheming mastermind. Takashi will be Fezzik, the brawler-for-dollars thug. Tamaki will be the heartless and cruel Prince Humperdink, while Kyoya plays good-hearted Farmboy Wesley in his Dread Pirate Roberts disguise."

"Wow," Haruhi admitted. "This didn't take as long as I expected. I figured we be at it for hours. Now we have time for some fun."

Tamaki waved for everyone's attention. "Before we decide how to spend our evening, I'd like to announce that I have reserved Hinansho for December 22nd through the 28th for the First Annual Hinan Family Christmas. I asked Shima to tell all the employees that, during that time, they can either go visit their families or have their families come here."

"That's very thoughtful of you," Takashi praised.

"I also want to have a Christmas Eve party for everyone on the estate and even invite the Ootas."

"What about those of us who have obligations on Christmas Eve?" Kyoya protested. "You know that the Otori Group always has its Annual Christmas Gala on Christmas Eve. My father has already been complaining about how much Host Club activities have been interfering with family duties."

"What about Christmas Day?" Tamaki offered.

"The Hitachiin Family Gathering is on Christmas Day," Hikaru answered.

"The same with the Haninozuka-Morinozuka Gathering," Mitsukuni added.

"My dad and I always visit my mom's grave on Christmas Day," Haruhi said.

"Why not the day after Christmas?" Takashi asked.

"Yeah, that could work," Kaoru seconded.

Tamaki looked pensive. "That…sounds like a really good idea." He got more excited as he thought about it. "With all the family obligations taken care of, we'll have more time to celebrate and have fun together."

"Maybe we could invite the Oota's children and grandchildren to come for a visit?" Haruhi suggested. "I'll ask Hibiki to help me make all the arrangements and then we can surprise them."

"I think the Ootas would like that," Takashi agreed.

Mitsukuni piped up, "Their kids and grandkids could stay here at Hinansho, since there's plenty of room for everybody."

"Sounds like a plan." Tamaki smiled broadly.

Just then, Kyoya's phone rang. "It's my father. I have to take this call." He walked over to the far corner of the room.

"Hello?"

"Kyoya, I expect you in my office within the hour," Yoshio growled, the irritation was evident in his voice.

"The Host Club is just wrapping up the planning meeting for the remainder of the year," Kyoya responded levelly.

"I don't care," Yoshio snapped. "I want to see you here in my office within the hour."

Trying to keep his own irritation in check, Kyoya said, "Very well. I'll have Tachibana bring the car around."

"Don't be late." *CLICK*

Kyoya sighed. "I guess I'd better get going." He sent a quick text to Tachibana.

***Father wants to see me in his office right away. Please bring the car around.***

Haruhi looked in his direction and saw the downcast look on his face before he could hide it. "What's the matter?" she asked, laying a hand on his arm.

"My father wants to see me in his office right away. I'll see you all at school." Kyoya turned and headed out the door to gather his things from him apartment.

"I hope things will be okay," Haruhi thought as she watched him walk out the door.

Kyoya looked up to see Tachibana waiting in the hallway. "I thought I would meet you out front."

Tachibana looked at him and gave him a tight smile. "I figured you might need help with your bags. The tone on your text implied that your time living here at Hinansho had come to an end."

"Very perceptive. Father sounded none too happy with me, though I'm not entirely sure if it is because of the time I spend with the Host Club or just because I'm not at home under his thumb." Kyoya unlocked the door to his apartment and stepped inside. He didn't bother turning on the light because everything he needed was sitting right inside the door.

Handing two bags to Tachibana, he picked up the remaining two, pulled the door closed, and locked it. "I'm going to miss this place. Thanks for moving your family here. I appreciate your willingness to help me stay here." Kyoya sighed as he led the way to the elevator.

Once the bags were loaded in the car, Tachibana held open the passenger door. Kyoya looked at him questioningly. "If things are going to be as bad as you anticipate, I think we need to talk through some things on the drive."

Reluctantly, Kyoya climbed into the car and fastened his seatbelt. Tachibana walked around and climbed in the driver's side. As he started the car, he asked, "Are you still going to be able to conduct the negotiations for the clinic?"

Sitting up straighter, Kyoya said, "I won't be able to work on it at home. I probably shouldn't even access my Hinan family accounts because that would leave traces on the home server and I know security reports any anomalies to Father. That will also restrict my investment research to what I want him to know about. I won't even be able to use my laptop at school for those things because it will sync as soon as I get home. Could you buy me another laptop that I could keep at school? I'll have Kosaku transfer the funds from my Hinan account to yours."

"I can do that. At least we'll have the drive to and from school to discuss Hinan family matters. It's a good thing that I'll be looking into Cormorant Construction and the piece of property west of Hinansho so you don't have to worry about that." Tachibana kept his eyes on the road, knowing that Kyoya was uncomfortable sitting in the front seat, given his upbringing.

"Hopefully the school network will be secure enough for the clinic negotiations. If not, maybe I can pass you messages to get to Fuyumi so she can take it on." Kyoya was sullen as he imagined having to pass up the opportunity to negotiate such a prime investment. He heaved a sigh and looked out the window.

After a few moments of silence, Tachibana said, "Just let me know if you need anything else and I'll do what I can."

As the car pulled through the gates of the Otori estate, Kyoya sat up straighter and fixed his stoic mask in place. "Thanks. You don't know how much that means to me," he murmured just loud enough for Tachibana to hear him.

Tachibana gave a small, almost imperceptible nod in response. As he got out and walked around the car to open the door for Kyoya, he slid his own aloof mask into place. "Never know who might be watching that would report too-familiar behavior back to Yoshio."

"Please take my bags to my room," was all Kyoya said before heading to his father's office. "At least I'm here well within the hour he demanded," Kyoya thought sourly.

Kyoya rapped on the door to his father's office. When he heard "Come in," he opened the door and walked to stand in front of Yoshio's massive desk. Standing ramrod straight, he waited for his father to acknowledge his presence. "Ever the power plays," Kyoya mused.

"So he finally decided to show his face here at home. I can only imagine what people would think if they knew he was consorting with unknowns. I'll have to put a stop to that." Finally, Yoshio looked up from the papers on his desk. "Well, have you completed your investigation into your investment account?" he demanded.

"Yes, Father, I have. I was able to determine that my new fiscal agent, Mr. Okuda, was skimming. He used the lowest yielding investment as a strike point and drew off returns from all the other investments that were in excess of that lowest yield. I don't know how he thought he would get away with it. I contacted Mr. Asano, my retired fiscal agent, to help me prefer criminal charges against Mr. Okuda. I also filed a civil suit for restitution of the embezzled funds. Mr. Okuda's assets are currently frozen with my claim as primary."

"Is he implying that it's my fault that his new fiscal agent was a crook? I'll have to review the vetting procedures to be sure something like this doesn't happen again," Yoshio thought sourly. Aloud, he said, "Will Mr. Asano be acting as your fiscal agent again?"

"No, his health is poor, so he provided me with dossiers on three agents he believes are of the highest caliber. I have interviews scheduled with them on Wednesday. I hope to have a new agent in place by Thursday, because I have two lucrative investments that I want to close on next week."

"I'm glad that is cleared up. I trust your returns will improve. So now you'll be able to spend more time at home, no more running off that that office at the Hinan estate." Yoshio's lip twitched as he tried to hide a smirk, "That should put him in his place."

"Yes, sir," Kyoya answered, noncommittally.

"Now you can spend time here at home and be available for family functions and business. Other than school, any exceptions will need to be approved at least one week in advance. That includes business meetings and Host Club activities."

"What about my interviews on Wednesday? Will I need to re-schedule those in order to provide one-week advance notice?"

"No, I will allow those. However, anything from this point on must be approved first."

"The Host Club Halloween and Christmas parties have already been planned, but not I do not always get advance notice of other Host Club activities. Tamaki is too spontaneous for that," Kyoya stated, looking for loopholes in his father's directive.

"Oh no, you need to learn who is in charge here. I will control your movements and activities for awhile, until you learn some respect." Yoshio countered, "Then you will have to miss out on those. Let me be clear: when you are not at school, you will be here on the Otori estate. The only exceptions will be appointments I schedule for you and activities approved at least one week in advance." Yoshio stood and leaned forward with his hands on the desk. "Any questions?" Despite the interrogatory words, his tone brooked no argument.

"No, sir," Kyoya answered as expected, though inside he was seething.

"Dismissed."

Kyoya stiffly bowed his head slightly in acknowledgement and exited the office. "Well, that went about as expected…other than essentially being placed under house arrest."

22