AUTHOR'S NOTE: My beta suggested that I up the rating from Teen to Mature because of some very frank conversations about sex in this chapter. It's nothing graphic but some readers may be sensitive and I wanted to give fair warning.
Haruhi had a sense of déjà vu as she sat between Hikaru and Kaoru watching the graduation ceremony. The biggest difference was that Kyoya and Tamaki were on stage graduating rather than sitting behind her. She reached for the twins' hands when she noticed their melancholy expressions. "You guys okay?" she whispered.
"Just the past year catching up with me," Hikaru admitted quietly. He shifted closer to Haruhi and squeezed her hand.
Kaoru shifted closer on the other side and added, "Déjà vu with a wicked twist."
Sighing and trying to pull her attention back to the graduation speaker, Haruhi wished she could just put her arms around the twins and give them each a kiss on their temple, but that would look really strange since the students at Ouran still believed she was a guy. "I can't wait for this to be over so we can go to Music Room Three. Hopefully Mitsukuni and Takashi will be waiting for us."
Even though the Host Club discontinued operations, they still met in Music Room Three to do homework, eat lunch together, or make plans. Next year it would not be available to them, but then they could just head home to Hinansho and hang out in one of their apartments.
"Next year we'll be graduating," Hikaru thought. "It will be so weird that Mom and Dad won't be there to see us. At least we have a new family who's here for us." He looked at his lap, contemplating the past year. "What a roller coaster it has been. The highs were great-establishing Hinansho, creating new Christmas traditions, being supported through everything, and reconnecting with Kami. The lows really sucked though—losing Mom and Dad, dealing with Rina, and Mitsukuni's tumor."
Noticing Hikaru's distraction, Haruhi squeezed his hand again to remind him that she was there for him. She glanced sideways at Kaoru, trying to discern what encouragement he needed.
Kaoru stared straight ahead, though he wasn't really seeing Mr. Suoh at the podium. "I wonder what direction we should take the clothing line. I really like designing for Haruhi, but I'd also like to design for Ageha. Hmm, that's a thought. I could design for kids and use Ageha, Hibiki, and Masaya as models. I think Hikaru would prefer to design for Haruhi, so maybe I'll just leave the adult side of the line to him."
"I guess Mr. Suoh wanted to give an extra-long speech this year because Tamaki is graduating," Haruhi thought as he finished speaking and the farewell song began.
Finally came the precise choreography of the diploma presentation. Haruhi watched proudly as Tamaki and Kyoya performed the motions flawlessly. Her heart fluttered slightly as Kyoya looked straight at her and smiled after receiving his diploma. "That's one thing I'm going to miss about not going to the graduation parties tonight—dancing with Kyoya."
After the homeroom visit and final tour of the school, Tamaki and Kyoya met up with the rest of the Host Club in Music Room Three. Tamaki said, "On one hand, I'm going to miss this place. But, then again, we'll still be part of each other's lives no matter where we are. And we'll always have Hinansho."
Kyoya smiled indulgently at his best friend. "Next year, Haruhi and the twins will be here and the rest of us will be at University. By the way, I received some good news this morning. I was able to secure the apartment across the hall from Mitsukuni and Takashi. That should make gatherings easier."
"We're still sharing an apartment, right?" Tamaki asked tentatively.
"Yes, we are," Kyoya assured him.
There was a *ding* from Kyoya's phone and a simultaneous knock on the door of Music Room Three. While Tamaki answered the door, Kyoya checked the text he received.
"Father, what are you doing here?" Tamaki asked as Yuzuru stepped into the room.
"We need to get you home, so you have enough time to get ready for the party tonight," he responded.
"Just a minute," he said, hurrying over to the cluster of sofas where the group of friends had been talking about plans and saying their goodbyes. "I will miss you guys so much." He shook hands with the twins, Mitsukuni, and Takashi before kissing Haruhi's hand. Finally, he shook Kyoya's hand and said, "I look forward to starting University in the fall. I'll meet you at our apartment."
With a soft click, whirlwind Tamaki was out the door with his father and on the way to his graduation party.
"I regret to inform you that the text was from my father and he wants me home right away to finish supervising preparations for my graduation party this evening," Kyoya announced.
The four guys shook his hand and then unobtrusively left the room so he could have a moment alone with Haruhi.
"I really wish you weren't going away for the next six weeks," Haruhi whispered, trying hard to keep her emotions in check.
"You have no idea how much I will miss you," Kyoya replied, kissing her tenderly. "Remember, if you need to get a message to me, send it though Tachibana."
"I know, but it won't be the same as having you here." She pulled his head down to lean her forehead against his.
"I really should go before my father sends the Black Onion Squad to drag me home," Kyoya half-jested. "You take care of yourselves and those Hinan boys. They've had a hard year and they really need you."
Haruhi smiled half-heartedly. "I'll do my best." She pulled his head down so she could kiss him one more time before they parted for six weeks. The words 'I love you' were on the tip of her tongue but she just couldn't bring herself to say them as he was leaving. "Maybe when he gets back," Haruhi promised herself.
Kyoya wrapped his arms around her and returned the kiss. "I don't know how I will survive without her, but I will, just so I can come home to her," he thought. Aloud he responded, "You always do. I'll see you in six weeks."
The pair left Music Room Three and joined the four waiting just outside. Kyoya waved goodbye and headed for his waiting limousine.
Haruhi sighed as she watched him walk away. Mitsukuni wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered, "I'm starting to get a headache. Can we go home?"
Patting his hand, she replied, "Yes, let's go home."
"Would you allow me to carry you, Mitsukuni?" Takashi asked worriedly.
Sighing, he replied, "That might be best. I'm feeling really tired."
Takashi gently picked up his cousin—brother, and placed Mitsukuni on his shoulder. "It's going to take me some time to think of him as my adopted brother rather than my cousin," he thought wryly.
Hikaru and Kaoru exchanged mischievous looks and Hikaru said, "Hey, Mitsukuni?"
"Yeah, Hikaru?" he responded warily.
"How do you like being Usa-chan's little brother?" the twins said in unison.
Snorts and chuckles greeted the twins' question. Haruhi slipped her arms around their waists. "Thanks for lightening the somber mood. Now let's go home."
OHSHC
Tamaki was enjoying himself as he stood in the receiving line with his father and grandmother. He thanked each guest sincerely for their congratulations on his graduation. Since those invited were business associates rather than school friends, there were few young people in attendance.
After the dinner, Shizue gave Tamaki a card with a list of his dance partners for the evening. Most were wives, but a few were eligible daughters that had accompanied their parents. "Well, at least there's dancing," he thought ruefully as he led his first partner to the floor.
After an hour, Tamaki was getting tired of dancing. It was not that he was fatigued, on the contrary, he could have danced all night—with decent partners. "I think the Host Club spoiled me," he pondered as he led yet another simpering female in a waltz around the floor. "So far, not one of my partners could hold a decent conversation. I may as well be dancing with Usa-chan."
Yuzuru watched his son smile as he danced past with the daughter of an interior designer. "He looks like he's having a good time."
"Looks can be deceiving," Shizue stated bluntly. "After all, he had that Host Club for three years and was adept at making all those air-headed young women fall for him."
"Well, you have to admit, he is doing his duty just as you asked him." Yuzuru watched as Tamaki changed partners, leaving his previous one with a smile on her face.
Changing the subject, Shizue asked, "Are you packed and ready to leave first thing in the morning?"
"Yes, Mother," Yuzuru replied. "I talked to Tamaki on the way here and he said that he is all packed as well. Are you sure this is necessary?"
"Yes, it is necessary. The Haninozukas lost their heir to a brain tumor," Shizue insisted.
"You make it sound like he died. I heard from Tamaki that he came through the surgery just fine. The prognosis is very good for a full recovery," Yuzuru said questioningly.
"Be that as it may, he is no longer a Haninozuka. He is now a Hinan. At least the Haninozukas had a second son who could step up as the new heir. We do not have that luxury," Shizue insisted.
"You are right, of course, Mother," he acquiesced.
"Now you need to go do your duty and dance with some of your associates' wives." Without waiting for a response, Shizue walked away.
OHSHC
Kyoya stood at the head of the receiving line at his graduation party, doing his best to keep his hosting smile in place. "Do these people even realize how rude and insensitive their remarks are?" he thought disgustedly. "How am I supposed to politely respond to comments like, 'Oh well, too bad you're number three,' 'Guess now you can be married off to your family's advantage,' or 'How does it feel to live in your brothers' shadows,' like I'm some afterthought or mistake."
When the receiving line was finally finished and Yoshio had moved away to speak to someone about a business deal, Akito said, "I'm so glad that's over. I need a drink."
Yuuichi hissed, "Just keep it in moderation. I doubt Father would be happy to have you drunk at our little brother's graduation party."
"Whatever," Akito said dismissively. "I can hold my liquor just fine." He promptly walked away and headed for the bar.
Yuuichi picked a glass of champagne from the tray of a passing waiter. "I'm off to talk to the eligible daughters that came with their parents. Maybe I'll find someone interesting to talk to." He smirked at Kyoya and walked away.
Kyoya began to circulate around the room, conversing with those whom he had made mental note to follow up. While most of the attendees this evening were his father's sycophants, there were a handful that might be adequate associates for Hinan family business.
After collecting his third business card for setting up a future meeting, Yoshio tapped Kyoya on the shoulder and said, "May I speak with you?"
"But of course, Father," Kyoya replied, following him to an unoccupied corner of the room.
"What is the meaning of having so few refreshments?" Yoshio demanded.
Kyoya responded, "By 'refreshments,' I'm supposing you are referring to the amount of liquor I had stocked for the party this evening?"
"You know what I mean," his father growled in anger.
"There are several facets I considered in selecting the appropriate amount of alcohol for the party this evening. The first was budget. This being an Otori party, they would be expecting high quality and that comes with a high price tag. The second was propriety. This is a high school graduation, not an office cocktail party. And third was to limit the potential of overindulgence that could lead to scandalous behavior that could be reported in the gossip columns and less reputable newspapers," Kyoya outlined matter-of-factly.
Calming, Yoshio nodded at each of his son's points. "Soundly reasoned. No wonder you friend Takashi was so impressed with your services for his event."
Keeping his stoic mask firmly in place, Kyoya said, "Thank you, Father."
"Now, please entertain some of the ladies by dancing with them," Yoshio directed.
"As you wish, Father," Kyoya bowed in respect and then went to do as he was instructed.
For the next two hours, Kyoya dodged passes from middle-aged trophy wives and handsy daughters. "What a wonderful graduation party," he thought sarcastically.
OHSHC
Haruhi tucked Mitsukuni into bed in his apartment at Hinansho. "Do you want me to sit with you until you fall asleep?
"That's okay, Haruhi. You go have fun with Takashi, Hikaru, and Kaoru. I'm just so tired. It's only been four days since the surgery," Mitsukuni said sleepily.
Kissing him gently on the forehead, Haruhi tucked Usa-chan in next to Mitsukuni and then pulled up the blanket. "Sleep well." She turned out the light on her way out of the apartment.
Takashi was waiting outside and asked, "Is he okay?"
Haruhi placed a hand on his chest and said, "He's fine. Just tired. He reminded me that he had surgery just a few days ago. He told us to have fun and just let him sleep."
Hikaru asked, "Can we watch a movie together?"
"I'd like that if it's okay with you two," Haruhi said looking at Kaoru and Takashi.
"Since we aren't going to either of the graduation parties, it will give us something fun to do," Kaoru said, and Takashi nodded.
"Whose apartment are we going to be in?" Haruhi asked.
Takashi said, "It should probably be one of the twins' apartments. That way we won't accidently wake up Mitsukuni."
"Good idea," Kaoru affirmed. "Let's set up in my place. I have all the extra pillows and blankets in my closet. That way we can be comfortable together on the floor."
Haruhi headed for the elevator. "Okay, you guys get started setting things up. I'm going down to tell Dad where I'll be and ask Kairi if he has any snacks for us."
"Don't take too long. We still need to decide what to watch," Hikaru admonished.
OHSHC
Mitsukuni fidgeted nervously as he sat in the café waiting for Reiko. She had returned from her year of studying in England on Saturday. He pulled out his phone and check the text she had sent him. "She said to meet her here at ten o'clock and it's almost eleven now. Maybe I should text her to see if something came up."
Just as he started typing, Reiko entered the café followed by Umehito. With a sudden flare of jealousy, Mitsukuni thought, "What's he doing with her?" Then it hit him. "Wait…what's wrong with me?"
Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, Mitsukuni stood and greeted, "Reiko, it's so good to see you. Umehito, it's been a while."
Reiko replied, "How are you doing? Haruhi told me it's been a hard month."
Mitsukuni sighed, "Why don't we have a seat and order drinks?" He gestured to the waitress who had told him to let her know when his companions arrived, and she would take their order.
"Earl Grey tea, please," Reiko asked with a smile.
"I'll have matcha," Umehito said.
"Ginger lemon tea and the check for me," Mitsukuni stated.
The waitress smiled and replied, "I'll bring those right out."
As soon as the waitress walked away, Reiko slammed a sheaf of papers on the table and demanded, "What is the meaning of this?"
Mitsukuni picked up the document and saw that it was their marriage contract and "CANCELLED" was stamped in red across the top sheet.
"Are you casting me aside? Have you found someone else?" Reiko said softly, trying hard to resist the tears that were gathering in her eyes.
Dropping the contract, Mitsukuni stood up and walked to Reiko's side. Kneeling down, he said quietly, "I am not casting you aside and there is no one else for me. My fa…Yorihisa sent this because, as far as the Haninozukas are concerned, it's null and void."
"What do you mean?" Reiko was starting to get angry. "Why would they think that?"
Chuckling humorlessly, Mitsukuni said, "Because that contract is for Reiko Kanazuki and Mitsukuni Haninozuka. I'm Mitsukuni Hinan now."
Umehito's eyebrows rose at this declaration. "Wait…what?"
Looking between Umehito and Reiko, Mitsukuni said softly, "I'm sorry, Reiko. I thought Haruhi would have told you." Then, still kneeling, he noticed the waitress returning with their tea. He stood up and returned to his seat.
After the waitress left, he proceeded to tell Reiko and Umehito about the fight with Yasuchika, the injuries, and the punishment. He followed with the facts about his collapse, the tumor, Yorihisa's denial of the surgery, and his own defection in order to get the surgery.
As Reiko listened, she gently stroked his hand. "Now I understand what Haruhi was trying to tell me. The reason she asked me to go to Hinansho."
Mitsukuni started to feel a little funny as Reiko stroked his hand. It was a fuzzy feeling in his gut. "I don't understand this feeling, but I like it and I don't want her to stop."
Watching their interactions, Umehito thought, "I see no reason to oppose a new marriage contract between them. He still has feelings for her, as she does for him. It will be a simple manner to change names and some of the clauses to fit the new facts."
After his recitation of the events, Mitsukuni asked, "Reiko, do you want a new marriage contract with me?"
"Of course I do," she stated resolutely. "As long as my extended clan will approve." Reiko looked at Umehito with a question in her eyes.
"I saw no reason to oppose it before, I see no reason to oppose it now over something as simple as a name change," Umehito assured her. "We will have to meet with the Hinan family to iron out all the details."
"How about seven o'clock for dinner tomorrow night at Hinansho? Two members are unavailable for the next six weeks, but everyone else will be there," Mitsukuni invited.
"I will pass that along to the Matriarch," Umehito assured him.
They spend the next half hour talking about the things they had seen and experienced as well as the people they met in their travels. They decided to order lunch and continued talking for another hour before Umehito insisted they had appointments they needed to leave for.
Shaking Mitsukuni's hand, Umehito said, "If we can't make it tomorrow night, I will call you. Otherwise, we'll see you at dinner tomorrow."
Reiko pulled him into a hug and whispered, "I'm glad you're okay. I'll see you tomorrow night."
As he held her, Mitsukuni felt that funny feeling wash over him again and he had to fight the urge to kiss Reiko. Swallowing hard to cover his emotional upheaval, he replied, "I'll see you tomorrow."
OHSHC
Kyoya, Akito, and Yuuichi climbed out of the back of the limousine and looking around at the facility. It appeared to be an ultra-exclusive resort rather than a medical clinic or hospital.
Four staff members appeared and bowed to the brothers. Three immediately walked to the rear of the limousine to retrieve the luggage. The fourth stepped forward carrying three folders.
"Welcome young masters. We hope you enjoy your stay with us." Handing a folder to each of them, he continued, "These are your schedules for your stay. While your luggage is being delivered to your rooms, please follow me and we shall begin with the first blood draw."
Yuuichi and Akito wore bored expressions while Kyoya's was mildly interested.
Flipping through his scheduled, Kyoya thought, "Well, it looks like Father had them allow plenty of time for schoolwork as well as investment research. Though I'm not sure I'm comfortable with the number of psychological evaluations—two per day seems a bit excessive."
"I can't see why any of this is necessary. I get a physical every year," Yuuichi complained as his blood was drawn.
"Who knows why Father ordered this?" Akito replied.
Kyoya smirked. "I would surmise a shrewd marketing ploy."
Akito looked at him disdainfully. "Why do you say that?"
"You obviously weren't listening to the gossip at Kyoya's party last night," Yuuichi said.
"Who pays attention to the prattling of empty-headed society women who have nothing better to do?" Akito sneered.
Yuuichi rolled his eyes. "It was actually the men who were discussing having heirs tested for underlying medical conditions or mental instability."
"What brought that up?" Akito inquired.
"Ask little brother," Yuuichi replied distractedly.
"Well?" Akito demanded.
Kyoya wanted to roll his eyes and refuse to answer, but his behavior would most likely be reported to his father and he wasn't in the mood for the fallout. "Mitsukuni Haninozuka was diagnosed with a brain tumor."
"Okay. That explains a lot. If a healthy bunch like the Haninozukas could have a major medical issue, I can see why all the other elite families would be nervous," Akito allowed.
Relaxing slightly, but not enough that his brothers would notice, Kyoya thought, "At least Yuuichi didn't ask for all the sordid details."
Their escort stepped forward. "Now that your initial blood draws are done, I'll show you to your rooms."
OHSHC
Yuzuru and Tamaki sat relaxing in the living room of the two-bedroom suite at an Otori medical spa.
"Are you nervous?" Yuzuru asked.
"No, why would I be?" Tamaki replied. "Are you nervous about these tests?
Yuzuru shrugged. "I don't see the point in them since we have physicals every year. I think my mother is just being paranoid because of your friend's tumor."
"I guess that's understandable. That explains why these tests are so much more extensive," Tamaki mused. "At least we get to spend some time together."
"That's true. How about we watch a movie together while we wait for dinner," Yuzuru suggested.
Tamaki stood up and rubbed his hands together. "Great! What do we want to watch?"
OHSHC
Kyoya growled to himself as he returned to his room. "I can't believe that Akito pushed me at that nurse. Just because he likes chasing anything in a skirt, doesn't mean that I do." Shaking his head, he set down the attaché case on his desk and unlocked it. "It's bad enough I'm hobbled in my ability to do the research I want for investing or my classes, but I have to put up with Akito's antics. At least Yuuichi is using his time to catch up on medical journals rather than harassing me."
Pulling out the research materials and investment folders, he set them aside. "I'll deal with those later." Opening the secret panel in the bottom of the attaché, he saw a small stack of folders and a folded sheet of paper. He ignored the folders and opened the sheet of paper. As he anticipated, it was a note from Haruhi.
Kyoya, I miss you. Hikaru and Kaoru have been in a designing frenzy. Takashi is hovering over Mitsukuni like a mother hen. I'm working on my course projects, but it's so much more fun when you are here to bounce ideas back and forth. Hope things are going well for you. Haruhi
He could just imagine her sitting at her desk writing this letter to him. The warm feeling spread through his core. Kyoya's thoughts drifted to the times when they sat together studying in Music Room Three or at the restaurant preparing for challenge tests. "She's correct. It was always so much more interesting to study together. Maybe that's why the projects for these last two courses seem to be dragging. I wish she were here."
Kyoya looked at the stacks on his desk and sighed. "I think I'll write a note to Haruhi and then look over matters for the Hinan family. After that I'll do my coursework and then the investment research. I should be able to finish that all before lights-out tonight so I can have the attaché back to the nurses' station for Tachibana to pick up in the morning."
After three failed attempts to write a note to Haruhi, Kyoya growled to himself, "Maybe I'll leave this for after everything else." He tossed the crumpled pieces of paper in the trash bin. "Ever one of those sounded line those silly love confessions the girls used to give me during Host Club."
He picked up the Hinan family folders and looked through them. The top one was a copy of Mitsukuni and Reiko's new marriage contract. Clipped to the top was a note from Haruhi.
I wanted you to look this over before it's finalized. It's basically the same as their old one, except this one leaves out any mentions of his position as family heir.
Kyoya stopped. "Wait, who will be the Hinan heir? That's something we'll need to address in the not-too-distant future. For now, I need to get back to work before I run out of time." He read through the contract and then made a note on the front that everything looked fine.
A sudden epiphany hit him. "I don't want to be the Otori heir. I would so much rather be the Hinan family heir. Even if I weren't the heir, I would much rather be part of the Hinan family."
Kyoya stood up and started pacing, a plan forming. "I turn eighteen in November. That's six months away—more than enough time to get everything into place. The day after my birthday, I can file the paperwork to remove myself from the Otori family registry. Tachibana and Fuyumi can then file the documents to adopt me into the Hinan family."
Satisfied with this plan, he sat down and looked through the other Hinan family business. There were three investment possibilities that Kosaku thought looked promising. "I guess I consider myself part of the Hinans already because the best investment opportunities I've found, I've given to them rather than the Otoris. I haven't even taken advantage of them for my own private portfolio."
Kyoya place a sheet in each investment file with observations, addition questions to research, and general comments. "That wraps up Hinan business."
Sorting through the research materials, Kyoya divided them between the two final projects for courses. He pulled up his presentation draft on his laptop and checked the marked passages against the reference materials. "Just as I thought. Now that all the facts have been checked, I can record my presentation and upload it to the course portal. I'll do that later since it isn't due until next week."
Next, he pulled out the construction materials Haruhi had sent so he could construct the atom assigned as his final project in chemistry. He set to work right away because this assignment was due in three days so he had to have it at the front desk for Tachibana to pick up in the morning and deliver to the University the next day.
He was almost done when there was a sharp knock at his door. "Just a moment, I am at a crucial juncture in construction of my final project," Kyoya responded as he slipped the Hinan files and Haruhi's note into the attaché case's secret compartment and locked it.
Opening the door, Kyoya found his father. "Good evening Father. To what do I owe this visit?"
Yoshio invited himself in and settled into the only chair in the room. He reached toward the construct on the desk when Kyoya said tightly, "Please do not touch that. I am almost done but I have not applied the fixative yet. It needs to be ready for Tachibana to pick up tomorrow. I would have finished sooner but the materials did not arrive until today. The professor had more difficulty then usual getting them because of backorders."
Yoshio drew his hand back, scowling at the implied reprimand in his son's tone. Ignoring the urge to call-out the implied insult, he said, "How have things been going with the tests? You have been here for three weeks. Have you been given any indication?"
"Yuuichi asked the doctors yesterday about preliminary results. They gave us the same 'you will get the results summary at the end of your stay' speech. I'm not sure I have much confidence in the psychological tests they've been giving me. The Rorschach test was annoying, especially the way the psychologist kept making faces and noises with each of my answers," Kyoya explained.
"How is your coursework progressing?" Yoshio asked. "Will you be done soon so you can do more investment research?"
Gesturing to the construct on the desk, Kyoya replied, "That is my final project for my chemistry course. The marketing final presentation is due next week. I have my script and I just need to record and edit the video before uploading it to the course portal."
Yoshio rose and strode to the door. "Then I shall leave you to get back to work. I will see you in three weeks when the tests are complete."
Kyoya turned back to complete his chemistry final project. "I'm glad Haruhi sent along the special box to keep it safe during transport," he thought as he packed it away.
Checking the time, Kyoya frowned. "I guess I won't be able to finish everything tonight. At least the chemistry final is ready for pick up tomorrow. I'll just write a note to Haruhi and then take the attaché case to the nurses' station for pickup in the morning."
Haruhi, I cannot express how much I miss you—and the others too, I guess. These last three weeks have dragged interminably. I agree that studying is so much more enjoyable when we are together. As cliché as it sounds, I'm counting the days until I see you again. Kyoya
As he finished, he pondered, "I want to sign it 'Love, Kyoya' but that doesn't seem right since we haven't discussed anything like that yet."
Slipping the note into the secret compartment with the Hinan files, he glanced toward the trash bin where he had thrown his first attempts. "I wouldn't put it past Father to have someone looking through my trash since I disabled the security cameras in my room." He picked the three pieces of paper up and tried to decide how to dispose of them discreetly. He glanced over at his boxed-up finished project with the sealing wax and signet waiting to be officially sealed.
Kyoya grinned to himself. "Perfect. I can burn these when I heat the sealing wax and then wash the ashes down the sink." Matching deeds to thoughts, he burned the papers, sealed the project box, and secured it in the attaché case. "Now I just need to take this to the nurses' station."
OHSHC
It was three o'clock in the morning when Mitsukuni abruptly sat up in bed. "That dream was so vivid it seemed real, but Reiko and I have never done anything like that."
^^^^^FLASHBACK^^^^^
Mitsukuni walked down the hall toward Haruhi's old apartment where Reiko was staying while visiting for the week. Without knocking, he opened the door and slipped inside. After securing the door behind him, he made his way to the bedroom. He strode to the bed and admired the young woman sleeping there.
She was wearing a sexy negligee, like one the twins had designed for Haruhi to torment Tamaki during her first year with the Host Club. Her sleeping form drew Mitsukuni's full attention and he reached out to run his fingers down her arm.
Mitsukuni felt heat building in his core and it spiked when Reiko opened her eyes and smiled at him. She reached up and placed her hand on his bare chest. It was only then that he noticed he was wearing nothing but a loose pair of pajama pants.
Then she moved her hand upward to tangle her fingers in his hair, tugging him gently toward herself. He drew a sharp breath as his desire flared and he leaned forward to kiss her passionately. Drawing back to catch his breath, Mitsukuni watched as Reiko gestured for him to join her in bed.
Unable, or unwilling, to resist, he climbed in and pulled Reiko flush against him as he kissed her again. One of her hands remained tangled in his hair while the other roamed gently over his body, torturing him with her touch.
This ignited his desire and his hands began caressing every inch of her skin he could reach. Reiko made little noises of pleasure that increased Mitsukuni's desire. He kissed her neck and she arched her body toward him, wanting more.
Her hands moved to the waistband of his pajama pants and his hand moved to the hem of her negligee…and then Mitsukuni woke up in very damp, sticky bedding.
^^^^^END FLASHBACK^^^^^
Mitsukuni climbed out of bed and changed his pajamas. Then he stripped his bed, placing the soiled linens in the hamper to be laundered later. Re-making the bed, he thought about the dream and felt shame at his ungentlemanly behavior. He was also confused about the state the bed and his pajamas.
"I guess it's a good thing I have an appointment with the endocrinologist later today. Maybe he'll be able to explain what's wrong with me," Mitsukuni contemplated as he tried to get back to sleep.
He tossed and turned until five, when he finally decided to just get up and head to the dojo to workout. It has been four weeks since his surgery. On one hand, he was feeling more clearheaded than he ever had before. On the other hand, he was completely confused. "I can think clearly but I just don't understand the reactions from my body. Every time Reiko and I are together, I get this warm, fuzzy feeling in the pit of my stomach when we touch, even if it's the slightest brush of our hands. And now this dream."
Mitsukuni decided to eat breakfast alone in his apartment before heading to his doctor appointment. He didn't want Reiko, Haruhi, or Takashi to see him. He was sure they would somehow know about the dream and he just couldn't face them.
Atsuhiro dropped Mitsukuni off at the Hinan clinic and said, "Give me a call when you're ready for me to pick you up."
"Thanks. I will," Mitsukuni replied before he closed the car door and headed toward the clinic.
Checking in with the receptionist, Mitsukuni was told to take a seat and the doctor would be right with him. "I hope he can tell me what's wrong with me."
It was only a few minutes later when Mitsukuni was called back to his appointment. After the standard checking of temperature, weight, blood pressure, and pulse, the nurse led him to the lab for a blood draw before walking him to the consultation room.
Five minutes later, Dr. Liang came in and asked, "How are you feeling?"
Mitsukuni looked a little uncomfortable. "Actually, doctor, I had this very vivid dream last night and woke up in damp bedding."
Dr. Liang tried to hide a smile as he asked, "Was the dream sexual in nature?"
"Yes," Mitsukuni whispered, still ashamed of his behavior in the dream.
"That's great," Dr. Liang assured him. "The very fact that you had a wet dream means that your hormones are starting to reach appropriate levels. If you had not had a tumor inhibiting your pituitary gland, you would have been experiencing these when you entered your teens."
"So that's what they meant in health class? They talked like everyone should know about it, so I was too embarrassed to ask," Mitsukuni muttered incredulously.
Dr. Liang chuckled. "Perfectly normal. If you have males about your age that you trust, you can ask them. It's a normal part of puberty."
"That explains SOO much about Tamaki and the twins," Mitsukuni muttered. "I'll ask my cousin…brother about it when I get home."
Looking puzzled, Dr. Liang asked, "Why the confusion about your relationship?"
Mitsukuni took a few minutes to explain the situation with his cousin, their defection, and adoption by the Hinan family. "I've thought of Takashi as my cousin for over nineteen years. We've been brothers for only a month."
There was knock at the door and Dr. Liang stood up to answer it. The nurse handed him a clipboard, he said, "Thank you," and closed the door.
"Well, the results of your blood tests confirm what your dream tells me. Your pituitary gland is producing the hormones at a standard level." Dr. Liang smiled and continued, "I should warn you that you may start to feel some aches in your limbs and be more tired than usual. Within the next six months, I suspect that you will have a significant growth spurt. Don't be alarmed if your appetite increases as well. These are all very normal."
"Thank you. I feel so much better about things now." Mitsukuni relaxed for the first time since he got out of the car.
"I'll see you again in four weeks and we'll check the hormone levels again. If they are where they should be, that will be your last appointment with me." Dr. Liang stood and shook Mitsukuni's hand. "Let me walk you out."
Mitsukuni stood outside in the sun while he waited for Atsuhiro to pick him up. "I hope Takashi isn't busy this morning. I really need to talk to him."
"How did your appointment go?" asked during the drive back to Hinansho.
"The doctor says the tests looked good. If they're still good next time, I won't have to go see him anymore," Mitsukuni replied.
"That's great news! I know everyone has been worried about you for a while now. It's good to hear that you're going to be okay." Atsuhiro pulled up to the front door to drop him off. "See you later."
Mitsukuni headed straight to Takashi's apartment and knocked. "Am I really going to do this? What will Takashi think of me?"
"Come in," Takashi called, turning to see who was at the door.
Looking sheepish, Mitsukuni stepped inside and closed the door. "Um, can I ask you a question, Takashi?"
"Of course. You can ask me anything. You know that," he replied. "By the way, how did your doctor appointment go?"
"It was good. That's actually why I want to ask you something. The doctor told me to ask a guy I trusted if what I'm thinking and feeling is normal," Mitsukuni said tentatively.
Takashi looked slightly confused.
"Um, have you ever had wet dreams and, if so, when did they start?" Mitsukuni asked uncomfortably.
Blushing lightly, Takashi took a deep breath. "That's quite personal, but I'm glad you trust me enough to ask." He paused to collect his thoughts. "Yes, I have, and they started when I was about thirteen."
"So, they're really nothing to be ashamed of?" Mitsukuni asked hopefully.
Takashi chuckled. "Yes, they are completely natural. It's your body adjusting to the new flood of hormones, especially testosterone. I take it Reiko was the girl in your dream?"
Mitsukuni blushed bright red. "How did you know?" he stammered.
"It's usually a girl you have feelings for that causes them," Takashi admitted.
Their talk was interrupted by a knock at the door. Takashi called out, "Come in."
Haruhi opened the door and said, "Reiko, the twins, and I are getting ready to watch a movie and have lunch in Kaoru's apartment. Do you guys want to join us?"
Takashi looked at Mitsukuni and he nodded in reply. To Haruhi, he said, "We'll be there in a few minutes."
"Great. I'll head down and grab our lunches. I'll meet you there. Knock on Reiko's door on your way past and let her know it's time." She turned and headed off on her errand.
Mitsukuni observed the look on Takashi's face as he closed the door. "She's been the source of those dreams for you, hasn't she?"
Takashi paused before he turned around. Blushing and looking at the floor, he admitted, "There were a couple before her, but yes, she's been the most recent. Since I rescued her from Tamaki that first time. It only gotten worse after the time at the Otori water park."
Remembering his dream triggered by brief touches with Reiko, Mitsukuni thought, "Carrying Haruhi through the jungle and protecting her must have had a profound impact on Takashi." Looking up, he asked, "Why haven't you said anything to her?"
Shrugging and blushing, Takashi responded, "She has feelings for Kyoya, and I suspect he returns them. I won't interfere with that. However, I will always be there to protect her, to the best of my ability."
Mitsukuni took a deep breath. "Thanks for talking to me about this. Let's go have lunch and enjoy a movie with our friends."
OHSHC
Tamaki looked at the doctor with a mixture of embarrassment and confusion. "You want me to what?"
"I need you to provide a sperm sample," the doctor stated matter-of-factly.
Turning to his father, Tamaki pleaded, "Is this really necessary?"
Yuzuru chuckled. "Tamaki, the point of these tests is to be sure the family heir is healthy. That includes determining if you can produce an heir of your own. The best measure of that is sperm count and motility."
"But…but…but, how am I supposed to do that?" Tamaki whispered.
The doctor spoke up, "I can have a nurse assist you."
Tamaki turned white as a sheet. "No, no, no. I understand the mechanics from health class. I'll figure it out." He sheepishly took the specimen cup and locked himself in the bathroom.
Yuzuru looked at the doctor and asked, "I wonder how many other young heirs are having the same reaction to this part of the testing?"
The doctor smiled and responded, "Probably most of the ones under sixteen and a handful of older ones, like your son. It can be viewed as a rather embarrassing or invasive request."
OHSHC
"Do you need a nurse to help you?" Akito taunted, leering suggestively at his younger brother.
Kyoya looked at him blandly and replied, "I may be a virgin, but I understand the mechanics and am quite able to provide the required specimen."
Yuuichi interrupted, "Can you two knock it off? Let's just get this over with. I will be so glad when all this poking and prodding is done. I want to get back to work. Thankfully, we only have one week left."
Stepping into the bathroom and locking the door, Kyoya stared at the specimen cup in his hand. "I understand the rational for a sperm sample, but did the doctor really have to call all three of us in at the same time."
Taking off his glasses and taking some deep breaths to relax, Kyoya considered, "Let's see. The talk in health class said to relax and think of someone attractive."
Unbidden, memories of that night at the Nekozawa beach house flashed through his mind. Haruhi pinned beneath him, staring up at him. "No, I don't want to be the type that uses bondage or non-consensual image to create the mood."
That memory had started the fuzzy, warm feeling in his core, and he knew he needed to capitalize on that. "I know. I'll imagine our wedding night." As his imagination painted the tender, loving moment that he hoped the two of them would have in the future, he easily provided the sample needed.
Tightening the lid on the jar, he set the sample in the access panel. Then he washed his hands, put his glasses back on, and exited the bathroom.
"Did you need assistance?" a nurse asked.
"No, the sample is in the access panel," Kyoya replied.
She took it out and placed it in the lab tray so it could be sent for processing once she had Akito's and Yuuichi's. "You may return to your room now."
"Thank you," Kyoya replied and walked away.
Fifteen minutes later, Yuuichi exited his bathroom, followed five minutes later by Akito. "Little brother still in there?" Akito asked, pointing to the bathroom where Kyoya had been.
"Oh no," the nurse said smiling. "He finished twenty minutes ago."
Yuuichi smirked and Akito just stood there with dumbstruck look on his face.
OHSHC
"It's finally all over," Tamaki thought as he waited outside the doctor's consultation room. "All the tests are done. The doctor will review the results with me and then I can go home. I can't wait to see everyone. I wonder how Kyoya is doing?"
The nurse broke into his musings when she said, "The doctor will see you now."
Tamaki walked into the doctor's office and he waved for Tamaki to take a seat.
"I have already provided copies of your results to your grandmother and your father. Since you are eighteen, I also wanted to go over the results with you."
"So, everything looks good?" Tamaki asked brightly.
"For the most part," the doctor replied cagily. "Most of your tests were well within normal parameters. Your IQ was above the average of 108, at 128. You psych evaluations were-interesting. However, there is one test that I would like to discuss with you."
Tamaki cocked his head. "Which one?"
Taking a deep breath, the doctor replied, "Your genetic test shows that you have the same condition that caused your mother's health to decline. In fact, you received that gene from both of your parents. It is recessive in your father, so he has not presented any symptoms yet, and potentially never will."
"Okay?" Tamaki prompted, questioningly.
"However, because you have the recessive gene from both sides, it is a matter of how soon rather than if your symptoms will present," the doctor continued. His expression was grave.
Sitting up straighter, Tamaki demanded, "How long do I have?"
The doctor rubbed his eyes. "I hate giving such bad news to one so young." Clearing his throat, he answered, "I'm sorry, but in all probability, you won't live to see your thirtieth birthday."
Tamaki sat there stiffly, a cascade of emotions washing over his face. After a couple minutes, he shook his head and stated, "Then I will just have to make the best of the time I have left. Thank you for being frank with me. It's so much better than having it come as a surprise later."
Standing up, he offered his hand to the doctor. "Thank you for your diligence."
The doctor stood as well, offering a tentative smile as he shook Tamaki's hand. "I wish you the best in the time you have left." Picking a folder up off his desk, the doctor handed it to him as said, "This is a copy of your test results. You are welcome to pursue a second opinion if you like."
Taking the folder, Tamaki replied, "I may consider it, but I doubt it will change the facts. Have a good day." With that, he turned and left the doctor's office.
OHSHC
"Mr. Otori, your test results were exceptional. You are a healthy young male with a stable psychological profile," the doctor reported.
Kyoya hid the glee in his eyes behind the glare on his glasses and the smirk behind and polite host smile. "Thank you. Was there anything of particular note?"
"Your IQ was above the average of 108, at 158. That's just two points shy of genius." The doctor stood and offered Kyoya a folder. "Here are copies of your test results. I have already forwarded a copy to your father."
Kyoya rose and took the folder. "Thank you for your diligence," he said before shaking the doctor's hand and leaving the office.
"I am so glad that nonsense is over. I can't wait to see Haruhi and the others," Kyoya thought as he headed to the entrance. He had his laptop with him and the remainder of his luggage had been taken to the front desk earlier that morning.
OHSHC
Shima stood quietly in the corner of the small dining room. She was so glad to see Master Tamaki back from all the testing. "There must have been some bad news in the results. He has a shadow in his smile."
The Host Club was exchanging hugs as Kyoya and Tamaki were welcomed back from their six-week ordeal. The Shido family, Tachibana, Ryoji, Kairi, and Atsuhiro watched their exuberant reunion.
Fuyumi called, "How about we sit down to dinner? Some of us are hungry."
Smiling mischievously, Kyoya walked over and gave Fuyumi a hug. Laughing, he said, "As you wish, Sister Dear."
She playfully swatted at him and said, "Oh, you."
The group sat around the table, eating dinner and chatting amicably.
Tamaki asked, "Hey, Mitsukuni, how have you been feeling?"
"I've been feeling much better. I have an appointment with the endocrinologist next week. As long as my hormone levels are still normal, that will be my last one," Mitsukuni announced.
Spontaneous applause and cheering broke out.
"That is very good news," Kyoya commented. "Just so you all know, my tests were all normal."
Everyone looked at Tamaki expectantly.
Haruhi had seen the same shadow that Shima had and she said, "If you don't want to tell us, that's fine."
Tamaki shook his head. "I was wondering how to bring this up and this is the perfect segue. Most of my tests were normal."
"I hear a 'but' coming," Haruhi commented softly.
He smiled at her. "But…I have the same genetic condition as my mother. And in my case, I got the gene from both sides. The doctor said I probably won't make it to thirty."
The room was totally silent in the wake of his admission.
Haruhi stood up and walked over behind his chair, wrapping her arms around him from behind. "Oh, Tamaki," she breathed.
He reached up and patted her arm. "Hey, it's okay. I made some decisions on the trip home."
"You're going to join the circus?" the twins interrupted, trying to relieve the tension.
Laughing, Tamaki relied, "No. I have you clowns, why would I need to join the circus? However, I have decided to make the most of my time. When I left, I had no idea what I wanted to study at University in the fall. Now I've decided that I want to study psychology and concentrate on grief counseling."
Shima looked at him proudly. "I think you will make a wonderful counselor, Master Tamaki."
Haruhi surreptitiously wiped away a tear. "Well, that fits with your mission for the Host Club and all that you've done for us in the wake of the loss of the Hitachiins."
"Okaa-san, thank you for those kind words," Tamaki announced flamboyantly, with a twinkle in his eye.
Groans and chuckles were heard from around the dinner table.
Kairi spoke up, "Does anyone else have any bombshells they'd like to drop? Or can we get back to dinner?"
"Just one more thing," Tamaki said soberly. "I do not intend to marry. I can't stand the thought of leaving a wife and children when I know I will die young."
Kyoya stood up and walked over to stand behind Tamaki with Haruhi. He placed his hand on his friend's shoulder. "No matter what, you will always have a family that loves you. We will cherish the time we have with you."
Tamaki patted Kyoya's hand. "Otou-san, I couldn't ask for a better family," he declared as he looked around the room, smiling tearily.
22