Chapter 7: No Time to Breathe

Rina sat in her car, seething at the unexpected obstacles. "What is Hinansho? I was so annoyed I didn't think to ask the butler where it is. Who are the Hinan? Why would they consider the Hitachiin brats family? How did they even get involved in this?"

Pulling out her phone, she called Masaki Danno at the courthouse. "He'd better have some answers for me."

Masaki answered the phone with a bored tone, "Good afternoon, Courthouse, how may I direct your call?"

Without acknowledging his greeting, she lashed out, "If confirmation just reached the judge before you called me then explain why the Hitachiin brats were not at their estate and there is already a protection order on it."

"What are you talking about?" Masaki questioned, quailing at her tone. "I was standing outside Judge Ryuzaki's office when he called Scotland Yard to confirm the deaths of Yuzuha and Akihiro Hitachiin."

"What do you mean 'confirm'?" she demanded. "That implies someone already knew and told him."

"I don't know," Masaki whined. "Wait. There was someone this morning who tried to file adoption papers for the Hitachiin kids. Just some lackey. No one of any importance."

"You idiot!" Rina screamed. "Find out who that lackey works for. While you're at it, find out where Hinansho is."

"What's Hinansho?" Masaki asked wearily.

"I don't know. That's why I want you to find out. The Hitachiin butler said that was where the Hitachiin brats were. Called it 'their new home' or some such," Rina growled.

Masaki responded sullenly, "Okay. I'll see what I can find out."

"See that you do," Rina threatened.

"Yes, your majesty," Masaki sneered after he hung up the phone.

OHSHC

Shima's mouth was set in a thin line when she hung up the phone. "I need to let the family know about this but their grieving is still fresh right now."

Hibiki walked up to Shima and asked tentatively, "Excuse me, but do you know what's going on? Why are the Host Club members here instead of at school?"

Smiling sadly, Shima replied, "I'm sorry. I haven't had time to inform everyone yet. Hikaru and Kaoru's parents were killed yesterday."

"Oh no, how awful," Hibiki cried.

Shima continued, "Tachibana, as head of security, would usually be providing this information to everyone, but he's been at the courthouse filing the adoption paperwork to make the Hitachiin children members of the Hinan family."

"If I may ask, what was the phone call?" Hibiki inquired timidly.

Shaking her head as if to clear an unwanted thought, Shima replied, "It was the butler at the Hitachiin estate. He called to inform the Hinan family that a government representative named Rina Tsukuda showed up demanding custody of the twins and the estate."

"Can the government do that?" Hibiki asked.

Shima snorted. "That type of thing has happened before to elite families. More than once, in fact. That's what is taking Tachibana so long at the courthouse. In addition to approving the adoption papers for the children, he convinced the judge put an order in place that only the twins' grandmother or the judge can allow access to the estate assets."

Hibiki sighed in relief. "So, if the boys are safe, what has you worried?"

"There are some things that the butler told me about the government representative that showed up over there. She made a threat that put me in mind of Kami Tsuchiya who was orphaned a few years ago," Shima said, thoughtfully.

Hibiki had a questioning look on her face. "What are you thinking?"

"I think I need to meet my friend, Kyoko Enami, for tea. She used to be the head housekeeper for the Tsuchiya family," Shima mused.

OHSHC

Masaki drummed his fingers nervously as he waited for Rina to answer the phone.

"You'd better have some good information for me," Rina threatened immediately.

"I found out that Hinansho is the home estate of the Hinan family," Masaki huffed.

"So where is it?" she demanded.

He sighed wearily. "Remember the resort that didn't open last year because of the fraud and embezzlement scandal? That's the place."

"You've got to be kidding me!" she shouted. "Wait. They also bought the property to the west that Cormorant Construction was developing, didn't they?"

"Yes…" he answered tentatively.

"I lost money on both of those investments," she snarled. "They are not going to snatch the Hitachiin money out of my hands, too!" She muttered oaths under her breath, wishing misfortune upon her enemies.

Clearing his throat to get her attention, Masaki said, "I found out whose lackey filed the adoption papers for the Hitachiin kids. He is a registered agent for the Hinan family."

"That figures. But what is the connection between the Hitachiins and the Hinan family? Until now, I'd never heard of the Hinans," Rina mused.

"Well, there were affidavits signed by the Hitachiin parents and grandmother that were filed with the adoption papers," Masaki offered.

Growling in irritation, she demanded, "Before this, had you ever heard of the Hinan family? We both used to be in the elite circles but I don't remember any family by that name. Not even some distant cousins."

"This is the first I'd ever heard of them," Masaki admitted.

Rina cackled evilly, "Then I think I should give them some publicity so everyone can get to know them. I'm sure Komitsuzawa would help me with that. You keep digging. I want plenty of dirt on the Hinan family." She hung up without waiting for a response.

Masaki rolled his eyes. "Whatever."

OHSHC

Tachibana leaned on the front desk in the Hinansho lobby. Hibiki looked up at him and asked, "Hard day?"

Chuckling mirthlessly, he replied, "Yeah. Up too late getting signatures. Up too early to be at the courthouse when it opened. Then all day to be sure everything was taken care of so the kids can be safe."

Shima walked up and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "I'm sure they appreciate it. I know I do."

"After I check on them, I'm headed to dinner with my family," Tachibana said.

"I'll head up with you. Kairi asked me to check and see if they want dinner brought up," Shima replied. "I think they said they were going to be in Haruhi's apartment."

A few minutes later, Shima knocked on Haruhi's door. Hearing no response, she opened the door just enough to look inside. She smiled, opened the door more, and stepped aside so Tachibana could see the scene for himself.

The Host Club had created a nest of blankets and pillows on the floor in front of the sofa. Hikaru and Kaoru were clinging to Haruhi. The trio was at the center of a circle of the other Host Club members.

Seeing the relaxed, content smile on Kyoya's face, Tachibana couldn't help but smile. "Though this is a terrible thing that has happened to the Hitachiins, at least the Host club is here for them and each other."

"I'll tell Kairi that dinner can wait for them," Shima said. "They need this more than food right now."

"Well, I need food," Tachibana stated. "I just grabbed a quick sandwich and coffee at the courthouse. With that suspicious character hanging around the judge's chambers, I didn't dare leave until I was absolutely sure everything was in place."

Shima patted his shoulder and replied, "You go eat and relax. You've earned it."

Just then, there was a *ding* from Tachibana's phone. Checking the text message, he sighed. "I guess dinner will have to wait. Yoshio wants me to answer for Kyoya's 'emergency absence' right now."

Shima huffed. "That man has no regard for others. You go tell your wife and daughter where you are going. I will have Kairi put something together for you. Stop in the kitchen and pick it up on your way out."

Fifteen minutes later, Tachibana poked his head in the kitchen door and said, "Shima said you would have some dinner for me?"

Kairi walked over and handed him a bento box. "You can eat these onigiri while you drive. They should tide you over until you can get back and have a real dinner."

"Thanks." Tachibana withdrew and headed for the garage.

Twenty minutes later, he was standing in front of Yoshio's massive desk waiting to be acknowledged.

Yoshio finally looked up and demanded, "Care to explain this text message you sent last night?"

Staring straight ahead, Tachibana recited, "I received a phone call from Master Kyoya last night. He had been checking the London markets before shutting down his investment research for the night. There were no market reports because all the news out of London was about a terrorist bombing in the fashion district. Knowing from his school friends that their parents were in London for fashion week, he called his London agent, who confirmed that the Hitachiins were among the casualties."

"How does any of that explain his leaving the estate last night? Did he head to London?" Yoshio interrupted.

"No, sir. He contacted the other Host Club members and they all met at the Hitachiin estate to support the twins," Tachibana continued.

"Is that where he is right now?" Yoshio demanded.

Tachibana shook his head, "No, he is at the Hinan estate. With the Hitachiin grandparents regularly out of contact, Yuzuha and Akihiro asked the Hinans to step in if anything happened."

Yoshio's mouth was a tight line. "If the Hitachiin twins are with the Hinan family, then why is Kyoya not back here? I consider this a breach of my trust in you."

"His friends still need him, sir," Tachibana stated.

"I am seriously contemplating terminating your employment contract with the Otori family," Yoshio threatened.

Tachibana replied off-handedly, "That is your prerogative, sir."

Resigned, Yoshio vented, "It would be too much work to hire and train a new bodyguard for three month, since that is when Kyoya will take charge of supplying his own security personnel. You may go."

OHSHC

Rina sauntered into the office of the newspaper's owner and editor. "Good evening, Komitsuzawa-san. Have I got a juicy story for you," she purred leaning against the doorframe and crossing her arms over her chest.

Yosuke pulled out a pen and notepad, leaned forward, and replied, "Oh, do tell."

"You probably haven't heard yet," she teased, "but Yuzuha and Akihiro Hitachiin were killed in London yesterday."

Throwing down his pen, Yosuke muttered in disgust, "That's not the type of story I do here. I'm not about to sing the praises of those two or lament their loss. As if."

"Oh, that's not the story I have for you," Rina assured him. "It's sooo much juicier than that."

He picked up his pen and asked skeptically, "So what's this 'juicy' story you have for me?"

"The story is about the kids," she started again.

Waving his pen dismissively, Yosuke interrupted, "How interesting can a story about a couple kids be?"

"If you would stop interrupting and just listen, I'd explain it to you," Rina hissed impatiently.

"Very well," he replied. "Lay it on me."

Sauntering over to his desk, she cocked a hip and took a seat on the corner. "I am the government representative for the orphanages that's assigned to deal with orphaned children of the elite families. I understand them like no other representative because I used to be one."

Yosuke snorted. "Funny how you would still be one if it weren't for the Hitachiins."

Rina cast him a withering glance.

He simply shrugged and gestured for her to continue.

"Anyway, after I heard about the tragic deaths of the Hitachiins, I went to their mansion to take custody of the children and inventory the estate. When I arrived, the butler informed me that the children were not there. They had been taken by the Hinan family."

"Who's the Hinan family?" Yosuke asked.

Rina glared. "I'm getting to that. I called my contact at the courthouse and found out the Hinan family had a lackey there first thing this morning to file adoption papers. The news hadn't even broken yet about the deaths. How did the Hinans know? How did they get the paperwork prepared so quickly? I speculate that they were responsible for the deaths so they could kidnap the children and take control of the Hitachiin estate. It is rather substantial."

Now Yosuke's interest was piqued. "Maybe these Hinan are a minor yakuza family trying to make a name for themselves. This could be a sensational story after all."

Rina smirked as she watched the expression of Yosuke's face. She could tell he was contemplating the potential readership from different approaches to this story.

Finally, he said, "How does this sound for a headline? 'Hitachiin Heirs Kidnapped by Hinan Family.' The body of the story would hint at possible yakuza ties as well as having a hand in the deaths of the parents. Maybe add some speculation about a deal to sell the children as sex slaves, given the twins' involvement in the Ouran High School Host Club."

"Ooo, I like that angle," Rina praised.

Yosuke picked up his pen and started writing. "Maybe I should contact some of the reputable media with the bare bones story of the kidnapping and say my unnamed source is a government official. This would bring readers to my paper for all the lurid details," he thought smugly. Glancing at his watch, he said, "If you'll excuse me, I only have a little over an hour to get the story written so it can be tomorrow's headline."

Rina smiled smugly. "Perfect. I'll leave you to it then."

She left the newspaper office and returned to her car. "Hmm, I could go home, but I think I'd rather head to the office. I need to file paperwork on the Hitachiin case."

Pulling out into traffic, she concentrated on her driving for a few minutes. Then it occurred to her, "Masaki said there were affidavits with the adoption papers. They were probably forgeries because the Hinan family is trying to defraud the government out of its rightful share of the Hitachiin estate."

Arriving at her office, she parked her car and hurried to her desk. Half an hour later, Rina finished filling out the paperwork on the Hitachiin case. She placed it in an envelope, stamped it URGENT, and placed it in her supervisor's in-box. "He should see that first thing in the morning. Then he can get the ball rolling and I can get my hands on the Hitachiin estate."

Smirking, she turned off the lights and headed to her favorite bar to reward herself with a drink for all her hard work.

OHSHC

The Host Club joined Shima, Atsuhiro, and Kairi in the small dining room for breakfast. Hikaru pushed is omelet around his plate, making no attempt to eat it. Seeing his distress, Haruhi got up and went to stand behind him. Wrapping her arms around his shoulders from behind, she whispered, "What can I do to help?"

Putting down his utensil, he grabbed her arms with both hands as if they were a lifeline and he would be lost without them. "I don't know if I can handle this. It's so hard to believe that Mom and Dad are gone."

Kaoru scooted his chair closer and wrapped his arms around his brother and Haruhi. "I know what you mean. The future used to seem so clear and now it's foggy and uncertain."

Haruhi kissed Hikaru on top of the head and then Kaoru. "Don't worry. Just remember that we're here for you both through all of this."

The rest of the Host Club gathered around them and Tamaki said, "Just tell us what you need and we'll help."

Hikaru looked down as if considering something. "Hey, Tono," he asked tentatively, "could we cancel the Valentine cosplay? I just don't think I'm up for it."

"I guess I forgot all about that," Tamaki admitted. "I've been so worried about you two I hadn't given it a thought."

Timidly, Mitsukuni asked, "Since we're on the subject, could we change the plans for my birthday at the end of the month?"

"What do you have in mind?" Tamaki replied softly.

"Well, instead of celebrating at Ouran with our guests, could you guys just come to our apartment and spend the weekend?" he suggested quietly, looking down.

Tamaki looked around the circle. "What do you all think? Should we cancel the Valentine cosplay and Mitsukuni's birthday party at Ouran with the princesses?"

Everyone nodded. Takashi admitted, "After what we've been through in the past forty-eight hours, I am just not in the mood to entertain the ladies at Ouran. I think our focus has to be here, supporting each other."

Tamaki responded, "I agree whole-heartedly. Kyoya, would you send the message to our regular clients that the Host Club will be closed until further notice?"

"I will do that after we finish breakfast. Then I will get the forms ready for Fuyumi to apply for new travel documents for Ageha and her nanny," Kyoya affirmed.

"Hey, Kyoya?" Kaoru spoke up timidly.

"Yes," he responded.

"Could we talk to Ageha? Is that something your London agent could set up?" Kaoru proposed hopefully.

Kyoya face-palmed. "I'm so sorry. I should have thought of that." Glancing at his watch, he continued, "It's around midnight there right now. With the eight hour time difference, tonight at six would probably be the best time. I'll send my agent a message that he will see when he starts his day so it will be all set."

Kaoru half-smiled. "Thanks. I know I really need to hear her voice to be sure she's okay."

Hikaru added, "Me too."

OHSHC

Just after lunch, the Host Club was gathered in Haruhi's apartment just holding each other and offering comfort. There was a knock on the door and Tamaki got up to answer it.

Shima stood there, uncharacteristically grim. "I hate to bother you all, but there is a government representative here. She's demanding to see the twins and she has police officers with her."

Haruhi's expression was hardened in anger. "I wonder why she's here and, more importantly, why would she bring the police?"

Sighing, Shima said, "Before we go down, I need to tell you about a call I received yesterday evening from the Hitachiin's butler. You were all sleeping and I didn't want to disturb you. I figured I'd have time to pass along the information after you all had a chance to get your feet back under you from such distressing news."

Tamaki walked over and patted her shoulder. "Thank you for your consideration. I take it that call pertains to the rude person downstairs?"

"Yes, it does. The butler told me that this government representative, Rina Tsukuda, showed up at the mansion demanding custody of the twins and the estate. He showed her the court order protecting the estate and told her the twins were at Hinansho, their new home," Shima explained.

Looking confused, Tamaki asked, "If she knows about the adoption and the court order, what's she doing here?"

Shima answered, "The butler also relayed to me a threat that…person…made. It reminded me of what happened to Miss Tsuchiya a few years ago."

The Host Club stiffened at the name of the girl they had discussed the previous summer. Her story was the very reason that there was completed paperwork for all of them, needing only final signatures and dates before filing.

Noticing their looks, Shima said, "I suspect it's the same representative that took charge of Miss Tsuchiya and her estate. I am having tea soon with my friend who used to be the head housekeeper for the Tsuchiya family. I hope to find out for sure and get more details."

Kyoya stepped forward. "For now, I suggest we go down together to find out what's going on. Shima, would have you Tachibana and a security detail meet us in the lobby?"

"Of course," she replied and left the apartment.

Turning to the others, he said, "Mitsukuni and Takashi, I want you to flank Hikaru and Kaoru. No one is to approach them without their permission."

The pair nodded solemnly and took their places. The twins looked relieved to have the protection.

"Haruhi, I would like to be in front of them, between Tamaki and me. As Hinan legal advisor, you should do the talking," Kyoya continued.

"I can do that," she replied determinedly.

They took the elevator to the first floor and gathered out of sight of the lobby. Before getting into formation, Haruhi wrapped her arms around the twins and stated, "No one can take you from this place of refuge if you don't want to go. We will make sure of that."

Hikaru and Kaoru looked at each other and then at the circle of friends surrounding them. "Thanks," they murmured in unison.

Releasing the twins, Haruhi said, "Now, let's go show her that you never cross the Hinan when family is at stake."

Hibiki looked up from the front desk as the Host Club, in formation, walked out to meet the government representative.

Haruhi noted the fact that the police officers had distanced themselves from the representative and looked ill at ease. Recognizing them from the Cormorant Construction incident, she gave them a small smile and they relaxed a small degree.

Directing a stern gaze at the representative, Haruhi said blandly, "Good afternoon. How may we help you?"

Rina replied condescendingly, "I am Rina Tsukuda, government orphanage representative in charge of elite family orphans. You can hand over Hikaru and Kaoru Hitachiin to me. You are interfering with government custody of orphans."

"There is no Hikaru or Kaoru Hitachiin here," Haruhi stated.

"Don't give me that," Rina sneered. "They're standing right there." She pointed with the rolled up newspaper in her hand to the twins behind Haruhi.

"You are mistaken," Haruhi said firmly. "They are Hikaru and Kaoru Hinan."

Rina clenched her jaw as she replied, "I don't care what you call them. They're coming with me." She gestured to the police officers. "Grab those two and let's go."

Haruhi held up a hand. "Not so fast. First, produce the court order that grants you custody." Though she did not show it outwardly, Haruhi relaxed slightly as, out of the corner of her eye, she saw the arrival of Tachibana and the security detail.

"If I may, Miss Fujioka?" Tachibana asked graciously.

Smiling demurely, Haruhi responded, "By all means." She took a step back and surreptitiously grabbed Hikaru and Kaoru's hands.

As Tachibana stepped forward to confront Rina, he opened a folder. "Here are the official adoption papers for Hikaru and Kaoru Hinan. They are not orphans so you have no jurisdiction."

"Let me see those," Rina seethed.

As she reached to grab them, Haruhi stepped forward and slapped her hand away. "Look, don't touch. I wouldn't put it past you to try destroying them."

Rina snarled, "You don't know who you're dealing with, little girl."

"Nor do you," Haruhi riposted.

Taking charge, Tachibana said solemnly, "Since you have no jurisdiction here, I believe you should leave."

"What if I don't want to?" Rina pouted.

"Then you are trespassing and I will ask these nice officers if they would remove you," he replied with a smirk.

Impotently Rina growled, threw the newspaper on the floor, and stomped out the front door.

Tachibana turned to the police officers. "Thank you for your patience in this matter. Is there anything we can do for you?"

The older officer stepped forward and said, "Thank you for your deft handling. She was throwing her political weight around and we've had no experience on how to handle it. Apparently those of you here at Hinansho do." He touched the bill of his cap and they left without another word.

Haruhi picked up the newspaper and groaned. "Komitsuzawa is at it again." She showed everyone the headline, 'Hinan Family Snatches Hitachiin Orphans.' Reading quickly through the article, her expression turned stony. "Do we know anyone that can run a newspaper properly?" she growled.

Everyone looked at her questioningly.

She took a deep breath and said through clenched teeth, "By the time I'm done with the libel suit against him, we're going to own a newspaper."

Kyoya asked, "Just what did he say in the article?"

Haruhi was so angry she was crumpling the paper in her fists.

Tamaki gently pried it from her grasp and skimmed the article. "Oh boy. No wonder Haruhi's livid. He speculates that the Hinan family is minor yakuza and was complicit in the death of Yuzuha and Akihiro Hitachiin. He implies that they took the twins in order to steal the Hitachiin fortune and establish their place among the yakuza."

Kyoya growled. "I'm going to help Haruhi take Komitsuzawa for everything he owns or ever hopes to own in the future. No one smears our name and gets away with it."

Mitsukuni touched Haruhi's arm gently to get her attention. "Can we go upstairs? My head is starting to hurt."

"Of course we can," she whispered, immediately calming down for his sake. Addressing the Host Club, she said, "Let's go upstairs and relax. We have a phone call to look forward to and we don't want to be agitated when Ageha calls."

When the elevator arrived on the third floor, Mitsukuni said, "I'm going to get Usa-chan."

Tamaki replied, "We'll save you a space."

Mitsukuni walked down the hall to his apartment and unlocked the door. He hurried to the bedroom where Usa-chan sat on the bookcase, right below his framed "adoption" certificate. "That's right. Usa-chan was the first one give refuge by the Hinan Family."

Cuddling the pink bunny, Mitsukuni re-locked his apartment door and headed to Haruhi's apartment. When he walked in, everyone was sitting around in a somber mood. "Hmm, I wonder if there's something I can do to improve the atmosphere in here." He hugged Usa-chan and then a smile spread across his face.

"Hey, Hikaru, Kaoru?" Mitsukuni asked.

"Yeah?" they responded distractedly.

Grinning Mitsukuni inquired, "How do you two like being Usa-chan's little brothers?"

There was a stunned silence and then the giggles started, followed by full-blown laughter.

Tachibana and Shima had just come up to check on the Host Club following their run-in with Rina Tsukuda when they heard an unusual noise. They determined that it was coming from Haruhi's apartment. Opening the door, they were surprised to see all seven hosts laying on the floor, holding their sides and laughing.

Worried that the grief had become too much for them, Shima asked, "What's wrong?"

First, Haruhi tried to explain, but every time she thought about it, she started laughing again.

Next, Mitsukuni tried, with the same result.

After ten minutes of the hosts trying and failing to explain, Shima started to chuckle and Tachibana smiled broadly.

Finally, Kyoya was able to pull himself together enough to say, "Mitsukuni asked Hikaru and Kaoru how they like being Usa-chan's little brothers." And with that, the whole room descended into laughter once again.

OHSHC

Fuyumi and her family arrive at Hinansho at five o'clock and she immediately pulled the twins into a hug, fussing over them like a mother hen. "How are you two holding up?" she inquired as she led them to Haruhi's sofa and sat down. They sat on either side of her and wrapped their arms around her.

Hikaru said, "I don't think we would be able to make it…"

"…if it weren't for the Host Club," Kaoru finished.

"I may not be part of the Host Club, but I'm here for you too," Fuyumi replied. The trio sat in a comfortable silence as Masaya and Hibiki clamored at Tamaki to play with them.

Seiji approached Kyoya tentatively and asked, "Could I talk to you?"

"Of course," Kyoya responded. "Let's go into the kitchen where it will be a little quieter."

In the kitchen, Haruhi was preparing tea and snacks to distract everyone while waiting for Ageha's call at six. She looked up as Kyoya and Seiji entered the kitchen.

"If you guys want to talk privately, I can join the others," Haruhi said.

Seiji responded quickly, "Actually, you should hear this too."

"That sounds serious," Haruhi remarked as she leaned back against the counter and crossed her arms.

Looking a little abashed, Seiji explained, "My marriage to Fuyumi was originally just a business arrangement to benefit both our families. We fell in love and the business part became a side issue for us rather than the main focus. However, recently it seems that the Otori Group is trying to either put my family out of business or just plain take over. Long term contracts have suddenly been cancelled, others not been renewed, and the Otori Group has been demanding a complete re-negotiation of all joint ventures." He paused and ran his fingers through his hair nervously.

"Sounds like my father," Kyoya affirmed. "What can I do to help?"

Seiji looked at him in surprise and Haruhi smiled softly at his reaction.

Shaking his head, Seiji asked, "You would really help me against your own family—your own father?"

Kyoya chuckled, "Has Fuyumi ever told you the story of the Hinan Family origin?"

Puzzled by the change of topic, he replied, "Yes, she loves telling that story."

"Then you know that a lot of the basis was to defy my father. What does your family need? How can the Hinan Family help the Shido Family?"

Looking a little uncomfortable, Seiji asked, "Could Fuyumi, the kids, and I live here at Hinansho? Currently we live in one of the Shido family homes and my parents need some place for their siblings' families to stay. They are being forced out of their current residences under financial pressure."

"By all means," Kyoya stated. "Fuyumi's apartment here should be adequate for your needs."

"Actually, that would work to our advantage as well," Haruhi interjected, finally entering the conversation.

"How do you mean?" Seiji asked warily.

Haruhi smiled. "I've been trying to figure out how we would work things when Ageha gets back from London. Her brothers will be busy with school and she will need adult supervision."

Kyoya added, "I've been looking into fostering situations but it would be ideal if her fostering family lived here at Hinansho so she can grow up with her brothers. Your family would be perfect because she's Hibiki's age, so they will be starting school together soon."

Seiji relaxed. "I'd have to talk to Fuyumi…"

"About what?" Fuyumi asked from the kitchen doorway.

"About living here at Hinansho and fostering Ageha so she can grow up with her brothers," Seiji replied.

"Hmm, given our current situation, that sounds like a plan that's a win all the way around," Fuyumi answered. "But right now, I come in search of snacks."

Haruhi laughed. "Then you've come to the right place," she said as she handed the tray sitting on the counter behind her to Fuyumi.

"We'll be in with tea in just a minute," Kyoya added.

Seiji looked from his wife's retreating form to the two teenagers standing with him in the kitchen. "So, just like that…"

Picking up the tea tray, Haruhi answered, "Yeah, just like that. Welcome to the chaos that is the Host Club and the Hinan Family."

"Hey, Seiji," Kyoya said, "if any other family members need a place to stay, check with Hibiki at the front desk. I don't think there are any reservations for the cottages to the east in the foreseeable future."

Seiji smiled, "Thanks. I'll pass that information along to my parents."

They were all sitting around a table enjoying their tea and snacks when Kyoya's phone rang. Looking at the caller ID, he placed it on the table. "You are on speaker. How are things in London?" Kyoya asked.

"Boring!" Ageha answered. "Every place interesting is closed because of the stupid bombings. If it wasn't bad enough they killed Mom and Dad, they also took all the fun out of being here."

"Ageha, it's so good to hear your voice," Hikaru and Kaoru chorused. "We've been so worried about you."

"Well, I'm fine," she stated. "Nanny has a broken leg because some baka panicked during the evacuation and pushed her down the stairs. It was right in front of the emergency services people. He 'tripped' and broke his arm but they wouldn't look at it until they took care of Nanny's leg and my 'stubbed' toe." She giggle softly.

Hikaru and Kaoru grinned at each other as they realized the tone of her voice hinted that she had something to do with the trip and there was a story behind her comments.

Kyoya spoke up, "Ageha, the forms have been filed for new travel documents, so you and Nanny will be coming home soon. Because your brothers have school, my sister and her family will be coming to London to bring you home. Is that okay with you?"

"You mean Hibiki will be coming? That will be great. Hey, is Milord there?" Ageha asked.

Tamaki piped up, "I'm right here. What do you need?"

Her tone turned serious as she said, "You are taking good care of my brothers, right?"

"Not just me," he replied. "The whole Host Club is helping out. Your brothers are very special to us."

"Thanks. Those two are so helpless at times I was worried about them. I needed to hear that," Ageha sighed.

The group chatted with Ageha for a few more minutes before she decided that the phone call was boring and she wanted to go play.

Haruhi asked, "So, Hikaru, Kaoru, do you feel a little better now?"

Hikaru chuckled. "it was good to hear Ageha's voice."

"I'm glad she's just as opinionated as ever. I know she probably hasn't fully realized that Mom and Dad are gone for good, but at least she hasn't withdrawn into a shell." Kaoru added.

Fuyumi wrapped an arm around each of the twins. "Don't worry. We'll take good care of her."

"Thanks, we know you will," they replied in unison.

Haruhi slipped into the kitchen and dialed the number for the law office where she worked as an intern.

"Good evening, how may I direct your call?" the secretary answered.

"Hi, Ms. Nagano. I need to speak to Mr. Naruse," Haruhi stated.

"Hey, Haruhi. How are the twins doing? Please pass along my condolences," Ms. Nagano replied.

"Thanks, but how did you hear?" Haruhi asked.

"A news program this morning reported the Hitachiins' death in London. Mr. Naruse showed me the article in the Komitsuzawa papers this morning, But I really didn't believe it until your father confirmed it was true when he stopped by the office to have lunch with Mr. Naruse," Mei answered.

"It's been hard but we're here for them," Haruhi said.

"You all take care. I'll transfer you to Mr. Naruse now."

"Thanks."

"Good evening Haruhi. How can I help you?" Mr. Naruse asked.

Haruhi responded, "I need you to represent the Hinan family in a lawsuit."

He chuckled. "Let me guess, a libel and defamation suit against Komitsuzawa?"

"How did you know?" she returned dryly.

Ryo's voice hardened. "After the Shibasaki case, I started picking up a copy of Komitsuzawa's paper regularly. I figured that would give me a heads-up of potential lawsuits people may want to file against them. I saw the headline this morning and I was extremely offended. Until that moment, I hadn't realized just how deeply invested I was in the Hinan family."

"Well, you were instrumental in its creation," Haruhi stated.

"No, you created it. I just helped get it legal standing," he replied.

Haruhi said, "Then you agree we have grounds for a suit, right?"

"Most definitely," Ryo allowed. "In fact, it's already been filed."

"What?" Haruhi exclaimed, slightly confused. "How?"

"As soon as I saw the article, I made a lunch date with your father. When I told him what Komitsuzawa said, he was absolutely enraged. By the time he arrived at the office, I had the documents drawn up. Ryoji signed them on behalf of the Hinan family as their registered agent and we filed them on the way to lunch," Ryo answered smugly.

"Wow, thanks. Be sure to send the bill to Hinansho as the retainer agreement states," Haruhi directed.

"Oh no, this one is on me," he replied. "There's no one else I would rather sue, given their attitude during the Shibasaki suit last year when you started your internship."

Haruhi shook her head and chuckled. "Okay, have it your way."

Then she sobered. "Hey, Mr. Naruse, how are you going to explain the Hinan family without revealing that the Host Club is involved? I don't know how Kyoya's father or Tamaki's grandmother would react to finding out the Hinan family was basically created to foil any plots by them against Kyoya and Tamaki. If they found out, it would probably reduce the effectiveness of any actions we tried to take against them."

"Hm, that is a valid point," Ryo responded. "I was thinking of asking to meet the judge in chambers to explain that the Hinan family was created by a small group of elite minors as a safety net."

"That sounds like a viable plan," Haruhi allowed. "But what if the judge wants to know why they wanted a safety net."

Ryo hummed, contemplating the potential of that line of inquiry. "I can't exactly tell the judge it's because they suspect they'll be disowned. That sounds a little suspicious, like they're involved in something illegal or immoral. That wouldn't help the defamation case any."

Haruhi exclaimed, "Wait! I know what angle to use—the Kami Tsuchiya disappearance."

"What's that?" Ryo asked, sounding puzzled.

"Several years ago, Kami Tsuchiya was a student at Ouran, a year younger than Hikaru and Kaoru. She was orphaned when her parents were killed in a plane crash. Because she had no other relatives, she was placed in a government orphanage. Within a year, the estate was completely expended, supposedly to pay for her upkeep. Then Kami disappeared from the orphanage. Her story has not been the only such case, just the most recent," Haruhi explained.

"That would definitely be a valid reason to create a safety net," Ryo commented. "I'll have to look into the Tsuchiya story some more so I have answers if the judge asks for relevant details."

"You should start by talking to Shima," Haruhi offered. "She and the Tsuchiya's former head housekeeper are friends. Shima plans to have tea with her soon to talk about Kami's disappearance because of the government representative, Rina Tsukuda, who showed up today. She tried to forcibly take custody of Hikaru and Kaoru, despite already knowing about the adoption into the Hinan family."

"That's interesting," Ryo responded. "Thank you for the information. I'll call Shima tomorrow and see if I can set up a meeting for Monday."

"Oh, speaking of Rina Tsukuda," Haruhi mentioned hesitantly, "would you be willing to represent the Hinan family-or Hikaru and Kaoru-if she files suit. She tried to claim that the affidavits from the Hitachiins that were filed with the adoption papers were forgeries."

"It would be my pleasure," Ryo assured her. "Meanwhile, I'll look into the Tsuchiya case and deal with Komitsuzawa."

Haruhi sighed. "Thanks, that's a load off my mind." She tried to suppress a yawn. "See you on Monday."

He chuckled. "You get some rest. We'll see you Monday."

Haruhi ended the call, turned around, and jumped.

Kyoya stood leaning on the door frame to the kitchen, smirking at her reaction.

"Warn a person, would you?" she huffed, placing her hand over her heart.

"What's the fun in that?" he purred smugly in response.

Haruhi shook her head in exasperation. "So, just how long have you been standing there?"

"Since the point you mentioned Rina Tsukuda and asked about representation. You were talking to Mr. Naruse, I presume?" he asked.

"Yes, that was Mr. Naruse," she confirmed.

"Did you talk to him about filing a libel suit?" Kyoya inquired.

Haruhi chuckled. "Actually, that was the reason I called him. Turns out he and Dad saw the article this morning. Mr. Naruse was offended, and Dad was enraged by it, so the lawsuit for libel and defamation was drawn up, signed, and filed before noon."

"Defamation as well?" Kyoya queried.

"Yeah," Haruhi replied. "If his tone was anything to go by, he may have included things like emotional distress and psychological abuse."

"Good," Kyoya affirmed. "Now we just need to figure out what we're going to do with a newspaper."

The pair pondered in silence for a few minutes and then Haruhi suggested, "We could contact a journalism professor at the University for recommendations."

Kyoya smiled. "Good idea. For now, let's head back in before they come looking for us, thinking we're hiding in here making out."

19