"I hope I haven't arrived too early," Kyoya fretted. "I was just so anxious to get away from the Otori estate; I didn't want to wait any longer." He shook his head in dismay. "I have to stop lying to myself. I'm looking forward to spending the whole day with Haruhi—just the two of us. Sure we'll be taking tests most of it, but at least we'll have lunch alone."

He knocked on Haruhi's apartment door and she immediately opened it, as if she had been waiting for him. She even had her satchel strap over her shoulder. "A little anxious, are we?" Kyoya teased.

"I was waiting by the door. Dad is sleeping and I didn't want the knocking to wake him." She muttered to herself as she patted her satchel, "Let's see, I left Dad a note to remind him that I have the tests today and I don't know exactly when I'll be home. I have my wallet, keys, phone, and everything I need for the tests in here." Locking the door behind her, she said to Kyoya, "Okay, I'm ready. Let's go."

Kyoya chuckled as he turned and led her to where the car was parked, the chauffeur waiting to open the door for them. "I would have preferred that Tachibana drive today, but Father insisted on the family chauffeur. He probably thinks that Tachibana is too lenient with me."

The pair climbed into the backseat of the limousine and promptly pulled out their notes. Kyoya smiled and nudged Haruhi with his elbow. "Great minds think alike?"

She smiled and scooted closer, until their knees touched. Then she smirked and turned her attention back to her notes.

They were so intent on studying, they were startled when the chauffeur opened the door and said, "We have arrived at the designated restaurant. I will return to pick you up here at 5:00 this evening. Please call if the tests run long."

Haruhi smiled at him and murmured, "Thank you."

"We'll see you this evening," Kyoya responded.

After the car pulled away, the pair entered the restaurant. The hostess greeted them warmly. "How may we serve you this morning?"

Kyoya responded, "We have reservations for a small private dining room under the name Hinan."

"Of course," the hostess demurred. "Please follow me." She led them to a side hallway where she gestured to an open door. "Here you are. It has been reserved for your use for the entire day. Your waitress will be here shortly to take your order."

Kyoya stood aside to allow Haruhi to enter first. She promptly walked to one end of the table and began laying out her notes. He walked to the same end of the table and pulled out his notes. She looked at him questioningly. Shrugging, he said offhandedly, "I figured we could leave the other end of the table clear for our meals so nothing gets spilled on our notes.

Smiling, she replied, "That's a good idea." Pulling an envelope from her notebook, she pulled out her test schedule. "Let's see, each segment is two hours long. The first test is mathematics this morning at 9:00 and is followed by the lunch break. Next is the writing test at 12:30. Then there's a half hour break before the computer test begins at 3:00. Is that the same as yours, Kyoya?"

Kyoya glanced at his own schedule and nodded. "That is my schedule as well." Before he could continue, the waitress knocked lightly on the door.

They both ordered tea and a light breakfast. "I'm almost too nervous to eat," Haruhi admitted. "But I know I have to eat so I can concentrate on the test and not my complaining stomach later."

Kyoya just chuckled and shook his head. "Sound reasoning. How are you feeling about the tests today? Are you nervous?"

Looking pensive, Haruhi finally replied, "I'm a little nervous. All the practice tests have seemed easier than the tests for my classes at Ouran. I want to start the online courses as well as earn the college credit, but at least I won't lose my scholarship if I don't score well on these tests."

They were interrupted by the arrival of their breakfasts. They ate and promptly returned to studying.

At 8:30, Haruhi nudged Kyoya's foot with her own under the table. "We should get going so we can find our room, check in, and get settle before the test is scheduled to start."

"I agree," he responded. As they were packing up their notes, the waitress arrived to remove the breakfast dishes.

"May I get you anything else?" the waitress asked.

"Not at this time. We have tests to take. We will be back for lunch," Kyoya assured her.

"Best wishes on your tests. I will see you later." The waitress bowed and then exited the room with the tray of dishes.

Walking toward the testing site, Haruhi pulled out her schedule again. "The test is in Room 3."

Kyoya looked at her. "I thought it was in Room 5."

"Right here, it says Room 3." She held out the sheet for him to see.

He pulled out his own schedule and read it. "Ah, it appears that we are in different rooms for the test. It makes sense that these tests would be popular for earning college credits. Well, since we won't be in the same room, I guess we'll just have to meet back at the restaurant."

Haruhi looked a little nervous as they approached the door to Room 3. "See you back at the restaurant."

As she reached for the doorknob, Kyoya caught her hand and gently pulled her around to face him. "You'll do fine. I'm sure of it."

She blushed. "Thanks for the vote of confidence." Before pulling her hand back, she caressed his cheek and whispered, "I'm sure you'll do fine as well."

Kyoya watched her check in with the proctor before shaking himself out of his revere and continuing down the hall to Room 5.

Just after 10:00, Kyoya looked at his test paper pensively. "That was much easier than I anticipated. I'll just look through it one more time to be sure I haven't missed some important instruction."

Fifteen minutes later, he shook his head in consternation. "It all looks correct. I guess I'll just turn it in before I start second-guessing myself."

The proctor had a puzzled look on his face when he took the test from Kyoya. "Is there a problem?" he asked tentatively.

"I am finished," Kyoya stated quietly.

Flipping through the test, the proctor saw that all of the questions had been answered. "Okay, you are free to go."

Just as Kyoya stepped out of Room 5, Haruhi was closing the door to Room 3.

She looked surprised, but then she smiled. "You're done, too? I don't know why I'm surprised."

"Shall we head back to the restaurant? It's too early for lunch, but there's plenty of time to study for the writing and computer tests this afternoon." Kyoya gestured to the door leading outside.

Haruhi slipped her arm around his and said, "Sounds like a plan."

Kyoya was startled by her action, but he was thankful she felt comfortable enough with him to link arms like this. Instinctively, he pulled his arm closer to his body to anchor her hand in place. She smiled up and him and all he could think was, "I wonder if she has any idea what she does to me when she touches me, no matter how lightly? Does she hear my heart beat increase when she's near me? Could she be doing it on purpose?"

"Hey, Kyoya?" Haruhi asked tentatively.

"Yes?" he responded off-handedly.

"When we get back to the restaurant, could I use your laptop to try the computer practice test again?" She looked up at him shyly.

"Of course. I know you don't have one of your own, so you don't get to use one on a regular basis." Kyoya smiled at her tenderly. "I'm glad she's becoming more comfortable around me."

Kyoya logged Haruhi into his laptop and then pulled out copies of the writing practice tests to review. They worked in comfortable silence, with the clicking of computer keys the only sound.

Just before noon, the waitress returned for their lunch order.

"Is there just a simple bento lunch available?" Haruhi asked.

"Yes, we have two options. The first is rice and fish garnished with pickled vegetables. The other is onigiri with chicken and steamed vegetables," she responded politely.

Haruhi thought for a moment and then declared, "I'll have the rice and fish bento, please. It should be light enough. I'd also like a pot of ginseng tea."

The waitress looked to Kyoya inquiringly. "I will have the same," he intoned.

After the waitress left, Haruhi turned to Kyoya and teased, "If you had gotten something different, we could have shared tastes of each other's lunch."

Kyoya looked startled at her suggestion. "Are you…flirting with me?" he asked, quirking an eyebrow.

"No…maybe…I don't know," Haruhi blushed. "I've never flirted before."

Chuckling, he stepped closer and lowered his voice, "Maybe you've picked it up from your designates. You seem to be doing it just as naturally as you host."

Wanted to change the direction of the conversation, Haruhi cast about for a different topic of discussion. "If Kosaku hadn't already reserved this dining room, I was going to take you out to lunch for your birthday."

"Too bad, I would have enjoyed that," Kyoya said softly, watching her fidgeting hands and suppressing the urge to hold her hands to still them.

"Tamaki tried to get pre-approval to have a birthday party for you tomorrow, but Yoshio denied the request," Haruhi huffed in annoyance.

Kyoya teased, "Well, I have to work tomorrow anyway. There's this networking event that I have to evaluate. I'm sure it wouldn't seem so much like work if you were there."

Haruhi blushed. "Are you flirting with me now?"

Smirking, Kyoya purred, "So what if I am?" He was about to take a step closer when the waitress returned with their lunches.

The teens stepped apart quickly, Haruhi trying unsuccessfully to hide a guilty expression. The waitress suppressed a smile as she set the meals on the table. "Ah, young love. It's so cute." She promptly left them alone again.

The pair ate in silence, avoiding each other's eyes. Haruhi glanced at Kyoya out of the corner of her eye. "What must he think of me? I can't believe I'm acting like this."

Feeling her eyes on him, Kyoya resisted the urge to look at Haruhi. "Not that I would ever tell anyone, but this day has been better than I ever could have imagined. She has been so cute today, trying to flirt without even knowing she's doing it."

They soon finished their lunches and started preparing to head to their next test. "It's now or never, I guess," Haruhi thought to herself. Aloud, she called, "Hey, Kyoya?"

He turned around and looked at her. "Did I pick up some of your notes by mistake?"

"No, it's nothing like that." She stepped closer and lightly placed her hands on his chest. "I just wanted to say thanks for letting me use your computer."

Kyoya's expression soften as he replied, "It was my pleasure."

Haruhi hesitated. "There's something I would like to give you as an early birthday present."

"Oh, really? What's that?" He looked down into her intense brown eyes.

"This." She slipped her left hand down and around his waist while sliding her right hand up to the back of his neck where she tangled her fingers in the hair at the nape of his neck. Exerting light pressure, she pulled his head down and gently kissed his lips.

Instinctively, Kyoya wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. It was only a few seconds before both pulled back and rested their foreheads together. He finally breathed, "Wow! That is the best birthday present I've ever received. Thank you."

Haruhi drew a deep breath to calm the butterflies in her stomach. "Well, if a kiss is the best birthday present you've gotten, should I tell the other Hosts so they can give you the same?" she teased.

"No! I don't want a kiss from any of the other Hosts. I don't even allow les bises from Tamaki. I don't care that it is the proper greeting in France."

"Oh, okay, if you say so." She smiled and caressed his cheek. "We'd better get to our next test."

OHSHC

The Host Club and the professionals invited to participate in Takashi's networking event were enjoying a quiet dinner in the small dining room. Haruhi sat between Ryo Naruse and Mei Nagano, chatting about business at the law office. Mei commented, "I'm so glad you have continued with your internship even though you've been so busy with school."

"I concur," Ryo interjected. "Your unique perspective has been very helpful in some significant cases."

Haruhi smiled, "The experience has been very educational and the contacts I've made have proved to be invaluable."

Hikaru and Kaoru cornered the representatives from the Marketing and Public Relations firm that handled the Haninozuka/Morinozuka dojos. Hikaru asked, "So which is more important, marketing or public relations?" Then he and Kaoru sat back and watched the good-natured bickering. It was obvious that this was an on-going debate between the two representatives.

Kosaku Ito and Takashi were debating the merits of working for an international accounting firm versus a national firm for gaining experience.

Tamaki approached Taishi Nakamura and asked, "So, how did you get into surveying?"

Chuckling, Taishi replied, "As a kid, I found maps fascinating. I wanted to know more about how they could be so detailed and so accurate."

Tadanobu Asano cornered Kyoya. "How is your new fiscal agent working out?" he asked with a small smile.

Kyoya nodded. "He is working out well. My investments have been doing so much better. He's even provided so very sound advice that has doubled the value of my portfolio without adding unnecessary risk."

"Then it sounds like he's doing his job properly," Mr. Asano responded.

Mitsukuni looked around the room at all the conversations going on. "I feel a headache coming on. I should just head up to bed. I wonder if Haruhi would come sit with me for a while. That always seems to help me sleep better."

While everyone was enjoying dessert, Takashi stood and said, "I want to thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to help me with this class project. The networking event will begin in half an hour. We can wait in the lobby for my classmates to arrive. That will give Kairi and his crew time to get the dining room set up."

As everyone was filing out of the room, Mitsukuni slipped up next to Haruhi and touched her arm. Turning to see who wanted her attention, she smiled at him. "What do you need?" she asked gently.

"I was hoping you could sit with me for a bit. I have this awful headache," Mitsukuni whimpered.

"Of course, I can," she responded, taking his hand.

Tamaki and the twins appeared at Haruhi's other elbow. "Can we come too?" Tamaki pleaded.

Looking at the trio, she noted the exhaustion in their faces. "As long as you can be quiet. Mitsukuni has a headache."

"Quiet sounds good to me," Hikaru replied with a sigh.

"Okay, let me go tell Takashi why we're deserting him," she stated. "Wait for me by the elevator."

The four slowly made their way to the elevator while Haruhi approached Takashi and Kyoya who were talking to the professionals. She waited for a lull in the conversation before she laid a hand on Takashi's arm.

"I'm taking these four upstairs," Haruhi said, pointing over her shoulder with her thumb. "Mitsukuni has a headache and the other three are tired," she explained.

Takashi's brow furrowed. "Not another headache. They've been getting more frequent. I'm glad you're here for him. Hopefully your presence will help him get the rest he needs."

"I'll do what I can." Touching Kyoya's arm she added, "I'll see you two after the event. I hope it goes well."

"Thanks," Kyoya replied. Takashi just smiled and nodded.

Meeting the others at the elevator, the five headed upstairs to Mitsukuni's apartment. After unlocking the door, he grabbed Haruhi's hand and gently pulled her over to the sofa. Once she sat down, he climbed into her lap, wrapped his arms around her, and promptly fell asleep.

The other three stood there looking awkward and uncomfortable. "Hikaru, you sit here," she said, patting the spot to her right on the sofa. Hesitantly, he sat down and leaned on her shoulder. Following his lead, Kaoru sat down on her left.

Seeing the disappointed look on Tamaki's face, she coaxed, "Would you like to sit here on the floor and put your head on my knee?"

Brightening like a puppy offered a treat AND a belly rub, he plopped down, resting his head on her knee, and looking up at her with adoring eyes.

Mitsukuni whimpered and shifted on Haruhi's lap. She ran her fingers through his hair and helped his settle more comfortably. Pointing to a blanket on the arm of the sofa, she whispered to Hikaru, "Would you hand me that?"

Instead of handing it to Haruhi, he stood up and gently tucked it snuggly around Mitsukuni, securing him to her. She smiled at him in thanks as he sat back down.

Now that both her hands were free, she reached up to the twins and caressed their faces. "You two look tired. Why don't you close your eyes and take a short nap?"

Kaoru made a disappointed sound and started to get up. Haruhi pulled his head back down to her shoulder. "I meant right here. My shoulder should be comfortable enough for a twenty minute nap."

Smiling broadly but sleepily, both twins wrapped their arms around her, careful not to wake Mitsukuni. They cuddle into Haruhi and were asleep within minutes.

Then she reached down and started running her fingers through Tamaki's unruly blond locks. "Just relax and rest. You have plenty of time before you need to get things set up for Kyoya's surprise birthday party."

Tamaki snuggled into her knee and mumbled, "You're the best, Okaa-san," as he drifted off to sleep.

Meanwhile, downstairs in the small dining room, the networking event was just getting started. All of Takashi's classmates had arrived, eager to talk to the professionals. Takashi stood up at the front of the room and introduced the professionals, giving their name and field of expertise. Then he gestured to the refreshments table, and said, "Please feel free to help yourselves as you mingle and talk."

Kyoya stood unobtrusively at the back of the room, taking notes on a clipboard. "He's doing well despite his naturally taciturn manner. Haruhi has been good for him." He sighed and tried to shake his melancholy mood.

Twenty minutes later, upstairs in Mitsukuni's apartment, Haruhi started gently to awaken Tamaki and the twins. She kissed the top of Hikaru's head and whispered, "Time to wake up, sleepyhead. You have decorating to do." He shifted and mumbled, "Just five more minutes."

She smiled to herself and turned to Kaoru, placing a kiss on the top of his head. "Time to set things up for Kyoya's surprise party." He hummed and nuzzled into her neck.

Chuckling, she reached down and started running her fingers through Tamaki's hair. "Nap time's over. You need to get to work." His eyelids flutter and he blinked sleepily. "I thought I just fell asleep. Has it really been twenty minutes already?"

Seeing the clock, his eyes popped open and he jumped up. "We have so much to do and so little time…" he started to say loudly, before he caught the expression on Haruhi's face warning him not to wake Mitsukuni.

More quietly, he prodded Hikaru and Kaoru awake and motioned for them to follow him. Reluctantly, they released their holds on Haruhi and followed Tamaki.

After the soft click of the door closing, Haruhi looked down, and was surprised to see Mitsukuni's warm brown eyes. "I thought they'd never leave," he muttered grumpily.

She kissed his forehead. "Did they wake you up?" she asked, rubbing his back gently.

"Tamaki was a little loud. Do you mind if I sleep a little longer," he replied rubbing his eyes.

"You have time, so go back to sleep." She returned to rubbing his back and then started running her fingers through his hair. Slowly his eyelids fluttered shut again. She leaned down and kissed the top of his head. He smiled in his sleep and snuggled his face deeper into her neck.

Down the hall, Tamaki and the twins were frantically decorating Tamaki's apartment. "We need to hurry," Tamaki ordered. "Kairi will be bringing the cake up in half an hour."

In a flurry, they rearranged the furniture, hung streamers, and blew up balloons. Finally, they were ready for the last decoration, a banner that read "Happy Birthday, Kyoya."

Hikaru and Kaoru were on stepstools, ready to attach it to the wall across from the door. Tamaki said, "It's crooked. Hikaru, raise your side an inch." Tilting his head, he continued, "Lower you end two inches, Kaoru."

He stepped back and held up his hands, making L's to frame the banner. Tilting his head the other way, he ordered, "Hikaru, lower your side an inch." He shook his head. "It still isnt' even."

Hikaru growled, "If you'd look at it…"

"Without tilting your head," Kaoru continued.

"You might notice that it's fine already," they finished in unison.

"Sorry," he replied sheepishly. "I just want everything to be perfect for my best friend's birthday."

"We understand," they continued in unison, "but nit picking at something that's fine won't help."

A knock on the door drew Tamaki's attention. He hurried over to open it and found Kairi with a decadent chocolate mousse cake. On top was written, "Happy 17th Birthday Kyoya." Tamaki stood aside to let Kairi take the cake over and set it on the table under the banner.

Glancing up, Kairi said, "Hey, great job on getting the banner straight." The twins just smirked at Tamaki.

Downstairs, the networking event was wrapping up. Takashi stood at the front of the room again. "To all the professionals, thank you so much for coming tonight. Kyoya has evaluations for you to fill out regarding your experience tonight. For my classmates, I have evaluation forms for you to fill out. Are there any questions?" Hearing no response, he said, "Once again, thank you for coming tonight."

Fifteen minutes later, Takashi and Kyoya were alone in the small dining room. "I'm glad that's over," Takashi admitted. "Social events have never been my strong suit."

Kyoya chuckled. "I've notice that during a lot of the Host Club events. You tend to focus on Mitsukuni so you don't get overwhelmed. You did very well tonight. The professionals were very impressed, especially Mr. Asano. He's worked with your father before on investments and knows the taciturn nature of Morinozuka men."

Takashi shook his head. "I'm just glad it's over. I need to check on Mitsukuni before I take you home. His headaches are really starting to worry me."

The pair went up the Mitsukuni's apartment and slipped in quietly. Haruhi looked up from where she was standing behind a chair, massaging Mitsukuni's shoulders.

"Feeling better?" Takashi asked.

"A little better. The nap and massage helped," he replied, rolling his shoulders.

"How'd the event go?" Haruhi asked.

Takashi smiled and said, "Good. I'm glad it's done though."

"I guess it's time for me to go home," Kyoya interjected.

Takashi responded, "Let's tell Tamaki and the twins we're leaving." He led the way to Tamaki's apartment and knocked twice before opening the door.

"SURPRISE!"

Kyoya looked confused until he saw the banner, then his face relaxed into a small smile. "Even after Father denied your request to throw me a birthday party, you did it anyway."

"But of course, mon ami," Tamaki offered smugly.

Haruhi stepped up and wrapped an arm around his waist. "Come on; let's not stand here in the door wasting time. We need to give you your gifts and have cake before your father calls, wondering where you are."

"Very well. Let's get this party started." While the other five were occupied, Kyoya whispered in Haruhi's ear, "I thought you gave me my present yesterday?"

Haruhi giggle softly, "I brought you a gift tonight as well. If we told them I gave your birthday present to you yesterday, they'd ask what it was—and would that be a little awkward."

Surreptitiously checking to be sure no one was watching, Kyoya kissed Haruhi's temple. "Does that mean I don't get another one tonight?"

Haruhi hummed, "We'll see."

Tamaki came bounding over and grabbed Kyoya's arm. "Come on birthday boy, open your presents so we can have cake."

"You do realize that you're starting to sound like Mitsukuni?" Kyoya teased.

"Doesn't matter," Tamaki said absentmindedly. "Here. Open your present from me." He thrust an envelope into Kyoya's hands.

Opening the envelope, Kyoya pulled out five certificates that read 'Preferred Voting Stock – Le Grand Paris Hotel.' "Thank you, Tamaki. This will be useful if I travel to France."

The gifts from Mitsukuni, Takashi, Hikaru, and Kaoru were all in the same vein, some form of financial investment.

Haruhi left a little self-conscious as she handed his the small wrapped package. "It's nothing special but I hope he likes it."

Kyoya opened the package to find a small black notebook held closed with an attached elastic band and a small elastic loop on the side with a simple black pen. "Thank you, Haruhi. This is quite novel. The band will hold things in the notebook and it can't get lost because it's attached."

"Yay," Mitsukuni cheered. "The presents are open. Now we can have cake."

A few minutes later Takashi announced, "Kyoya and I need to get going. Any longer and Yoshio might get suspicious."

OHSHC

"You can just drop me off at the house," Kyoya offered.

Takashi shook his head. "I wish to express my thanks to your father for your invaluable assistance."

They climbed out of the limousine and walked up the steps. Before they reached the door, it opened and the butler intoned, "Master Kyoya, your father wished to speak with you before you retire for the evening."

"Very well. Morinozuka-san would like a brief audience with Father this evening, if it is convenient," Kyoya replied.

The butler bowed. "I shall apprise him of your request. Please wait here in the vestibule."

The pair shared a companionable silence while they waited for the butler. Within a few minutes, he returned and relayed, "Otori-sama will see you now, Morinozuka-san."

"Thank you," Takashi said and bowed his head in acknowledgement before following the butler to Yoshio's office.

When Takashi entered, Yoshio looked up and asked, "I take it Kyoya's assistance was satisfactory?"

"Most satisfactory. In addition to helping me polish this event, he also gave me tools to plan events on my own in the future," Takashi reported. Bowing formally at the waist, he continued, "I appreciate your willingness to allow me access to his expertise. The event would not have been a success without him."

Yoshio nodded his head regally, accepting the accolade. "Thank you for your report. Good evening."

Recognizing the dismissal, Takashi exited the office. Kyoya was waiting just outside. A look and a nod passed between the two as the taller was led to the front door by the butler.

Kyoya braced himself and entered his father's office. "My balance is double the minimum he requires and I've attended every family gathering. What more does he want from me? Did he find out about the birthday party? Is he going to demand I quit the Host Club?" he thought darkly.

When Yoshio looked up at Kyoya, he was actually smiling.

A shiver ran down Kyoya's spine. "I can't tell if that smile is a good or bad sign."

"Kyoya, I understand you did well on this assignment," Yoshio stated, steepling his fingers. "In light of this and other…changes, I've decided to relax your restrictions. You may have one hour after Host Club and any outings will require just a three-day notice. Dismissed." Yoshio looked down and returned to his paperwork.

Bowing, he left his father's office struggling to keep his stoic mask firmly in place over his astonishment and giddiness. "I will have to find a way to thank Takashi and Haruhi. I'm sure that Father's change of heart has to do with his good report on tonight and her prompting to take the challenge tests."

OHSHC

The next few weeks were a flurry of activities, including class projects, exams, and Christmas cosplays. "I'm so excited," Tamaki enthused. "Christmas at Hinansho is going to be so much fun. I know all of you have family obligations for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but I hope you'll find some time to spend with us."

Haruhi pulled his into a hug and replied, "I'm so glad you'll have someone to celebrate Christmas with this year."

When Tamaki started to tighten the hug to the point she had trouble breathing, she looked at him sharply. Embarrassed, he released her and said, "Sorry," sheepishly.

"What about us?" the twins demanded in unison, engulfing her in a huge hug.

"You two always have family to celebrate with. Tamaki has been isolated and ignored by his family."

"I guess you're right," Hikaru conceded, rubbing his cheek against hers.

"But we still want your attention," Kaoru continued, rubbing her other cheek with his.

"Okay—enough guys," Haruhi said, trying to break out of their grasp.

When the twins started to tighten their grip on her, she found herself being gently extracted and carried over to where Mitsukuni was waiting for his hug.

"You'll be at Hinansho the day after Christmas, right?" Mitsukuni pleaded.

Running her fingers through his hair, she assured, "Of course. Dad and I plan to spend the 26th through the 28th at Hinansho. It should be a lot of fun to relax there together."

"I'll miss you until then," he murmured, snuggling into her side.

She kissed to top of his head and replied, "I'll miss you, too."

Warm strong arms enveloped her from behind and a deep voice whispered in her ear, "I'll miss you, too."

Haruhi reached up and caressed Takashi's cheek. "It's only a few days and we'll all be busy with family obligations," she whispered back.

Tamaki interrupted by announcing, "I'm off to Hinansho. See you all in a few days." Waving, he left Music Room Three.

"We need to go as well," Hikaru said.

Kaoru continued, "Ageha asked us to help her shop for gifts for Mom and Dad." Wrapping arms around each other's waists, they waved with their free hands as they left.

"Can we give you a ride home?" Mitsukuni asked hopefully.

Haruhi smiled. "Thanks for the offer, but Kyoya was going to give me a ride home while we discuss our online classes."

"Okay. See you soon," Mitsukuni replied, grabbing Takashi's hand and heading for the door.

"We should get going as well. Ryoji just sent me a text asking when you will be home," Kyoya said.

She slipped her arm through his and replied, "Lead on."

OHSHC

The Otori Christmas Eve Charity Gala was the lead story for all the society columns—as usual.

Tamaki spend Christmas Eve and Christmas with the residents of Hinansho decorating and deciding on traditions for the Hinan family.

The twins spent Christmas at their parents' Charity Fashion Show.

Mitsukuni and Takashi renewed their ties with their cousins from the extended Haninozuka-Morinozuka clan.

Haruhi and Ryoji spent their usual Christmas visiting Kotoko's grave and sharing memories of Christmases past.

All of the hosts planned to meet for lunch at Hinansho, but Haruhi and Ryoji were the last to arrive.

As Atsuhiro pulled up in front of Hinansho, Ryoji cooed, "It looks so GRAND! Oh, Haruhi, have you ever seen anything so beautiful?"

"Yeah, Dad, it is beautiful. Knowing Tamaki, it's even more beautiful on the inside. Let's not keep everyone waiting," Haruhi answered. "Hey, Atsuhiro, thanks for picking us up."

He smiled in response. "Glad to do it. Things just aren't the same when you're not here. Let me help you with your bags."

"You may have to fight them for it," she laughed, pointing to the Host Club pouring out the front door and heading in their direction.

"I surrender. At least I had the pleasure of your company during the drive. And yours, Ryoji," Atsuhiro teased.

"Oh, you flirt," Ryoji pouted, swatting at him playfully.

Grinning, Atsuhiro said, "Now that your faithful knights have retrieved your baggage, this knave should get the carriage stowed in the garage."

"See you at lunch," Haruhi called as Atsuhiro waved and drove away in the direction of the garage.

Tamaki grabbed her in a hug and simpered, "I'm so glad you're finally here." Before she could say anything or react, she was spun out of his hug and into one with the twins.

"Whoa, guys, hold up. You're making me dizzy here," Haruhi protested. "We have three days together. I'll have time to spend with each of you."

Takashi picked up the bags and was about to start inside when Haruhi asked, "Wait. Where's Mitsukuni?"

"Reiko arrived for a short visit. She and Mitsukuni are in the lounge, catching up," Takashi answered.

"That's wonderful. I know he's missed her while she's been studying in England." Haruhi grabbed Kyoya and Tamaki's arms while Ryoji grabbed the twins and they all trooped inside.

Once Ryoji and Haruhi were inside, Hibiki greeted them, "You're finally here. Tamaki wouldn't let us start any of the after-Christmas activities until you two arrived. He has so many plans, I don't know if we'll get them all done in just three days, but it will be fun to try."

"Yay, you're finally here," Tamaki shouted. "Now the fun begin. I designed some games that will be fun to play together and help undecorated Hinansho so the staff doesn't have to. The first game is 'Find the Mistletoe.' I hung twelve sprigs of mistletoe in the main house. When you find one, you have to kiss the person you're with—on the cheek is fine—and then bring it to the scoreboard at the front desk. Hang it in the next available slot and write your names underneath. That game will continue until all of the sprigs are found. I'm not participating because that would be cheating."

"Good to know," Hikaru teased.

Ignoring him, Tamaki continued excitedly, "The game we will be playing after lunch is…"

Haruhi stopped listening to Tamaki's monologue when Kyoya caught her eye, winked, and mouthed, "Let's win the mistletoe game."

16