Author's Note: Thanks to everyone who's read, reviewed, followed, and favorited. Welcome to any new followers. It's a pleasure to see you here. Hold on to your hats! This chapter is big!

Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will.

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xXx

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Date Posted: 10/12/2019

Trigger Warnings: Language and violence! Nothing too intense.

The Next Phase - Chapter 6: Welcome to the Big Time

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Friday, January 7:

Ootori BOD Meeting:

"Now that we're back from break, I've invited my sister, Shindo Fuymi, and her son, Shido Sota, to the meeting. Sota-kun is currently named my heir. Fuymi will run the conglomerate until Sota-kun is able to take over."

I gestured them in, hoping my five-year-old nephew would behave for the few minutes he'd need to be here. I'd greeted him during the break to keep him from running to me in the meeting.

After traditional greetings, they took their seats at the other end of the table, Sota-kun using a booster.

I nodded to Fyumi, and she began her introduction. "Ootori Enterprises Board Members, I'm honored to be a part of your meeting today. I will be discussing my qualifications and Sota-kun's educational path. There will be time for questions at the end."

Fuymi dazzled them. Having an intelligent woman speak here was a novelty. One I need to fix soon. Her exemplary record both at Ouran and Tokyo University, her experience on her husband's BOD and as an executive in the company, and her pedigree won them over.

If I could, I'd leave it all to her. She's almost as capable as me.

I could tell Sota-kun was getting restless. His legs were swinging, and his head kept turning around to look out the window. Time for Uncle Kyoya to step in.

"Sota-kun, would you like to come down here and help me run the meeting?"

"Yes! Uncle Kyo." He and his mother are the only ones that hold a soft spot in my heart.

Fuymi helped him down and he came over to me. I hauled him up to my lap. "You're getting so big." He giggled.

Fuymi moved on to the question and answer session. I'm expecting them to be relentless.

"Uncle Kyo, how do you run a meeting?"

I showed him the agenda and explained how it works, at his level, of course. He grabbed my pen and said, "Can I make an agenda?"

Flipping over an extra copy, I let him try. He managed a list of numbers and random words and names by each of them. Not bad for a five-year-old. He wasn't being loud or rambunctious. I whispered in his ear that I was proud of him. He turned and gave me a smile with some teeth missing.

They were wrapping up their questions, and I prepared to take over. "Thank you Fuymi and Sota-kun for your time today." I looked around the table and said, "My sister will be joining the board meetings starting with the next one. I've also been copying her on all board paperwork, financials, and various other reports since I took over and formalized my new will."

I looked down at my nephew, and he said, "Time to go?" I nodded. Fuymi was coming toward us. "Use this for the meeting." He handed me his agenda, and I told him I would use it at the next one.

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xXx

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Mountain Ski Resort:

"Snowboarding? Are you kidding me?"

"What, you don't like it?"

"I've never done it before, Asshole."

"Don't worry, we'll start with the bunny slopes."

I watched the Young Lord and Shinobu-sama ride a lift to the top of a very short slope. He wanted to surprise her. Told her to dress up, causing her to show up in a short dress and spiky shoes. How do women wear those things?

Yesterday, he had one of our maids go out and get her equipment and board. Skull and Crossbones. He wasn't going to get anything pink. One concession was to have her name spelled out in bones. Guess he was getting her back for the dog bowl.

"Ouch."

She made it about 4 meters (~12 feet) before falling on her ass. The Young Lord didn't notice she'd fallen until he reached the bottom and turned around.

"Yeah. You suck at this."

"Whatever. Get up here and help me."

I've noticed a shift in their attitudes towards each other since the ball. He told me what happened and that he had no idea what to do next. I told him to keep up what he's been doing and maybe be more considerate. He took my advice.

"Here, take my hand." He helped her up, but she fell over after about another two meters.

"Shit. My ass already hurts."

He took off his board and handed it to one of the guards. Taking her hips, he walked her down the hill. They look cute together, but I'd be shot if I told that to either of them.

.

Finally got this chick down to the bottom. I knew she's never boarded before, but I thought she just might be able to go more than a couple meters.

"Thanks, Asshole."

"You're welcome." A guy wearing boarding gear was walking towards us. Time to introduce them. "Shinobu, here's your instructor, Youta."

"It's an honor, Himura-sama. I'll be giving you a basic tutorial and helping you get down the slopes."

"Great." She turned to me, "You get me lessons after I've already had my ass turn purple?"

"Hey, at least I thought about it."

"Whatever."

"I'll leave you to it, Youta. Be back in about an hour."

"Yes, Sir, Kasanoda-sama."

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After my lesson, Kasanoda joined me back on the beginner slope. I'd managed to get down twice without falling.

"How was the half-pipe?"

"Awesome. Haven't had that much fun in a while. No time to get up here."

His eyes turned sympathetic and soft. I was surprised. "How are you doing? Learn anything?"

"Yes. I've come down this slope twice by myself without falling."

"Great." He gave me a shit-eating grin. "Show me." Fuck. I knew he was going to say that.

"Only if you go down with me."

He chuckled and my face went red. "You know what I meant."

"Sure, I did." Then he walked over to the lift.

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This time she made it almost to the bottom before falling over. The Young Lord was there instantly.

He reached out and she took his hand. "I know this wasn't what you were expecting, so if you want to go…"

"No. After that lesson, I started enjoying it. Let's go again."

Did she notice she'd had an entire conversation with him without calling him 'asshole'?

Four more runs, and she'd had it, although three of them she did without falling. They went up to the half-pipe so she could watch. Her board was stowed in one of the cars.

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xXx

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Phone call between Haruhi and Yoshida Naoto:

Haruhi: "Hello."

Yoshida: "Good afternoon, Fujioka-san."

Haruhi: "Yoshida-san. It's good to hear from you."

Yoshida: "I wanted to thank you for the beautiful gift basket you sent. It was completely unnecessary but appreciated."

Haruhi: "You're more than welcome. You gave me so much of your time and some great advice, it's well deserved."

Yoshida: "The puppies love the toys. I'll text you a couple pictures."

Haruhi: "Yes, please. I'm glad they do."

Yoshida: "Well, I need to go. Wanted to thank you and let you know you can call and text anytime if you have questions."

Haruhi: "Thank you. I'll remember that."

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xXx

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Kasanoda Noodle Restaurant:

"These are really damn good."

"Told you. Traditional recipes passed down through generations. It's the best in town."

"Wasn't sure about coming here, but it works."

"Well, after that trip to your bar, I had to get you back."

"It wasn't that bad."

"Speak for yourself. I ended up on the back of your bike for a week."

"Yeah, that was funny."

"Hey, Shinobu-san?"

"Shinobu-chan. You've earned it."

Damn. Step in the right direction. Guess if she gets to call me Asshole, I should get to call her chan.

"Shinobu-chan?"

"Yeah, Asshole?"

"I could kiss your ass to make it better."

"Nope. You haven't earned that yet."

Yet?

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xXx

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Saturday, January 8:

Hitachiin Mansion:

"I'm so glad you boys asked Haruhi and me to come over to get ready for the fashion show."

"Our pleasure, Ranka. This way we know Haruhi is dressed correctly."

"Ha. Ha."

"Come over here and sit. Hair and makeup time."

I watched Kaoru put subtle blush and eyeshadow on my baby girl. If her mother was still alive, she'd have taught her how. If Kotko was alive, Haruhi would be more girly. Being raised by a man has consequences.

"Not too much!"

"Believe me, Haruhi, I know what I'm doing. You could have let your dad do it. He knows what he's doing too. Ranka always looks lovely."

"Aww, thank you, Kaoru." I spun around and watched my dress move. "This is gorgeous. You design very well for me."

"Glad you like it. I took a chance with the color."

"Emerald sets off my hair wonderfully. You knew it would."

I saw him smile. This is his first design for me. He knew exactly what he was doing.

"OK. You're done, Haruhi. Let's get going."

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xXx

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Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks, Tokyo:

"Now that we're here, what are we going to do, Fellas?"

Tetsuya looked at me in surprise, "It was your idea to come, Young Lord."

"I wanted to see the fireworks, but there has to be something else to do."

"There are food stands, Young Lord," Yuki spoke up.

"Guys, lets stick with 'Ritsu' tonight. It's a big crowd and we don't want to attract attention." They all nodded. Don't do that very often, but don't want to stand out here. Too many tourists and families.

Tetsuya took charge. "Let's look around. Might find something fun. If you're not on point, peel off if you want to. Don't be gone long. Everyone, no drinking." They nodded again.

"Tetsuya, you didn't need to tell them that. They know."

"Protocol from your father, Youn…Ritsu."

"Fine." I started walking and called, "Those rice balls look good."

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"Shinobu-sama?"

"Cut the 'sama' tonight, Kono. It's too crowded. What did you need?"

"I know we came to see the fireworks, but is there anything else you want to do?"

"Didn't eat dinner. Thought I'd hit up the stalls." I turned around to address the rest of the group. "Anyone else hungry?" They all nodded.

How can my guards not eat before we go out to somewhere like this? What am I thinking? They're guys. They did eat. They're always hungry.

"Let's grab something and find a good spot to see the show."

I led them to the food stands.

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xXx

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Fashion Show Venue:

Because we're all underage (except Dad) , and Ito-chan and Watanabe-chan aren't officially dating the twins, we were brought in through the back. Watanabe-chan may be Kaoru's girlfriend, but they said they should only be walking the carpet together if their engagement was officially announced. Rich bastards and their crazy rules.

The twins and their mother walked the red carpet together. "Those two look like they've been walking that carpet all their lives." We were watching on a video feed backstage.

"They have been," Dad said. "I've seen them walk when they were kids. They're pretty big hams."

Kids. Wow. To be known and picked on for that long. No wonder Hikaru wasn't upset by that article in that trashy tabloid. They've been in the spotlight their whole lives.

The four of us were escorted to our VIP seats and given programs. I'd approved six pictures. Kaoru said he'd only be using four. Hope they look good.

"Oh, darling, these pictures are amazing. You could be a supermodel."

"Right, Dad. Sure."

"I'm serious. Look at these!"

I did. At least he only did use four of the approved ones.

"Your Father's right, Haruhi-chan. These pictures are amazing, and they were just reference photos," Ito-chan said. "You could definitely be a professional."

"I'll have to ask that wonderful Kaoru for a couple extra programs. This deserves to be framed and hung in the house."

I rolled my eyes. "Dad, you can't be serious."

"Yes, I am. I'm so proud of you baby girl. You should be too."

"I'm proud of my intellect and work ethic. I have no control of my appearance. That's genetics. It fades. It should not define who you are."

"Maybe not, Haruhi-chan," Watanabe-chan said, "but we all know society doesn't work that way."

"True and disappointing. People miss so many wonderful chances to make friends when they judge only on appearances."

Just then the music came up and the lights went down. I've never been to a fashion show before. Hope I'm not bored to tears.

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xXx

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Back at the Fireworks:

Shit! What's he doing here? "Hey, Asshole!"

He spun around and his guard went on alert. Good reflexes.

"Hey, Shinobu-chan. What are you doing here?"

"I'm just here to establish an alibi."

"Really. For what?"

"Nothing, you idiot. I came to see the fireworks."

He looks good in those jeans and leather jacket. Wait – what?

"We were just going for food. You hungry?"

"Starved." I stepped closer to him and could feel Kono bristle. "Is that a good idea? I don't want our guards to do something stupid."

"Mine are cool. Are you saying you can't control yours?"

I couldn't stop myself. I rolled my eyes at him. "Of course, I can control my guys. I shouldn't have to."

Putting his hand up and giving me the 'wait a minute' gesture, he turned and called Tetsuya and Kono over.

"Guys, we're going to continue the evening together. What do you want to do about security?"

Tetsuya and Kono had worked together once or twice. They'll know what to do. Kasanoda actually had a good idea letting them figure it out.

"We'll both stay with you, each picking one more guard to come along. The rest can take off, leaving one on the periphery. Does that work?" Tetsuya asked Kono.

"Fine by me."

Kasanoda and I had rice balls while waiting for the teams to figure things out. "Is the salmon good?" he asked, shoving the rest of his in his mouth.

"That's disgusting. You're lucky you're cute." Oops. I said that out loud didn't I.

"Cute! Did you say you think I'm cute?" He's getting angry. "I'm not cute. I'm badass. I'm tough. I'm ruggedly handsome. I'm…"

"An asshole?"

He gave a full-throated belly-laugh. "I guess I am, but I'm your asshole."

"Did you just hear yourself?" I was cracking up too. I could hear Tetsuya and Kono over my shoulder, snorting and choking.

He flushed as red as his hair. "Shit."

"It's OK, Asshole. I knew what you meant, and it's kinda sweet."

"Sweet? I'm not sweet. I'm bitter and spicy and…"

"Knock it off. I think we're done with that. Buy us another round of rice balls."

.

"Kono-san, I think we're going to have to get used to working together," I said.

"I think so too, Tetsuya-san."

We were walking behind our two charges, chuckling at their antics. The Young Lord can really shove his foot down his throat sometimes. She enjoys it.

"As they go out more, switching off guards isn't going to work as well. Plus, if this is going where I think it's going, we all need to work together."

"Yeah, I heard a rumor," Kono-san said.

"Maybe our details should meet somewhere neutral without the primaries and get to know each other."

"Not a bad idea. I'll talk to my head."

"I'll talk to mine."

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xXx

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Backstage at Fashion Show:

I'm so proud of my Kaoru-kun. After his mother and Hikaru took their bows and announced again about the collaboration between them, she introduced Kaoru and his new line.

I'd heard several people around us talking about the teaser in the program. Most of the comments centered around it being for commoners, but they were positive about the designs. I even heard a couple asking if anyone knew the model.

"Naoko-chan!" I heard Kaoru yell right before I was lifted off my feet and spun around. "Did you like it?"

"It was everything you wanted it to be and more. The buzz around the room is positive about the designs." I leaned forward and whispered in his ear, "Some were wondering who the model was. In a good way."

"No one else can have her. Haruhi's exclusive to the Hitachiin brand. She probably didn't notice that in her contract."

"She probably didn't care."

"True."

He set me down as Hikaru and Yuki-chan walked over. The twins threw themselves into each other's arms. They pulled their mother into the hug when she came over.

"I can't believe the stuff I'm hearing. They loved it!" Hikaru yelled.

"And," his mother said, "I'm hearing good things about Kaoru's teaser as well."

"It's a huge success!" Ranka hollered. He had stayed behind to hear the comments as the audience left. "Everyone's talking about it. They love the new line!"

Hikaru was looking around, "Where's Haruhi?"

"Restroom," Ranka answered.

.

I'm so proud of my boys. Kaoru is starting his own line, and Hikaru collaborated with me. They're growing up.

"We'll head for the after party as soon as everything here is organized. The girls need to change, and the clothes locked up. Besides, it's always better for the designers to show up late at the party. It's not called fashionably late for nothing."

"Thank you, Hitachiin-sama. I didn't realize there was an after party."

"There always is, Ranka darling. Please call me Yuzuha."

"Thank you, Yuzuha."

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"Where's Haruhi?" Hikaru-kun asked again.

"Restroom."

"Still?" he said. "Something's wrong."

"I'll check on her," I volunteered.

"I'm coming with you, Yuki-chan," he said, chasing after me.

I walked straight into the room while Hikaru waited in the hall. Was not expecting what I found.

"Haruhi?"

She was sitting on the settee, her head in her hands. No one else was there. Her eyes made contact with mine. Wide, scared, frazzled.

"They recognized me. I couldn't get away. They followed me in here."

"How many? What did they do," I asked as I sat down next to her. I reached out and took her hand. She's not used to the attention the rest of us get.

"Just a couple. Not everyone recognized me. They demanded to know who my manager is. Shoved business cards at me. Asked for my agency. Wanted my personal contact information." She took a deep breath and mumbled, "Is this what all of you put up with?"

"Not all of us. Out of all of Ouran, the twins are probably the worst. They've been modeling since they were kids. Constantly in the public eye. Plus, their mother is extremely visible."

"Just my luck."

I smiled and nudged her with my shoulder. "I know you're kidding." Standing up, I held out my hand, "Let's get going. Hikaru is outside waiting and worried."

"They all worry."

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xXx

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Fireworks:

"Let's try that takoyaki next," Shinobu said as she grabbed my hand and pulled me along. Got a great view of her ass. Tight jeans and short leather jacket. We almost look ridiculous together, wearing the same thing.

I bought two dozen and handed half to Tetsuya and Kono.

How the fuck? She ate three while I was turned around. There isn't even any sauce on her face.

"Have you been to this before?"

"Nope," I answered. "Thought I'd try it this year. It's been a while since the Fellas and I have gone out for just fun."

"Yeah, us too." She glanced at me, "Feel guilty for dumping them?"

"Fuck, no! They can have fun without me."

"How about some Dorayaki next?"

"Huh?" The plate was empty. I only got four of that dozen. "Damn, girl. You ate those fast."

"My favorite."

"Then I'll forgive you this once." She glared at me. It's cute.

I bought six dorayaki and passed them around. Nice and sugary.

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"They do make a good couple, don't they?" I asked.

"They do, Kono. They do," Tetsuya answered.

There they were, standing at the railing. His arm around her shoulders, hers around his waist. She's leaning against his shoulder, and he's handing her more takoyaki. They are her favorite. She could eat them all day.

Pointing at the fireworks and standing like that, they looked like any other teenaged couple around. It's easy to forget they are just kids.

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"I need to get going."

"I'll walk you to your car." I grabbed another dozen takoyaki on the way out. She's like Haruhi and her fancy tuna.

We were getting closer when I heard, "Hey, hot stuff. Wanna come home with me?" And then she was pulled away.

Seventeen things happened at once. Tetsuya tried to get in front of me. Kono and her other guard went after the guy. The peripheral guards started coming in. The crowd parted to watch or run…

I pulled Tetsuya aside and dove after the drunk dickhead. Shinobu got to him first. It was a beautiful thing to watch.

"Don't touch me, you bastard." Then she stomped on his foot with the heel of her boot, spun around and punched his face, and followed it up with a fist to the stomach.

He dropped to the ground and she went to kick him. Kono grabbed her arm, "That's enough. He's down for the count, and we're attracting attention."

Finally got her to the car. "That was hot. He'll think twice before he ever touches another woman."

"Damn fucking straight, Asshole."

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xXx

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After Party:

In the limo, Yuki-chan told Hikaru and Kaoru what happened. Kaoru reassured me that I was exclusive, and my name would never be released.

"Good. I'm done with this crazy business."

Dad didn't want to hear that. "Haruhi, you're kidding. Tonight was amazing, and this party is over the top."

He's right about that. This nightclub had three floors, the second hollowed out like a doughnut. The entire third floor had been reserved for the event.

"Mori-senpai?" He was standing at the top of the stairs. "What are you doing here?"

"I own the club," he whispered in my ear. "Not many people know that. This is our first private party. I wanted to see how it went."

"Makes sense."

"Mori-kun," Dad squealed. "I didn't know you'd be here tonight."

They started talking about something. The twins linked my arms and pulled me out on the dancefloor. If they want to be embarrassed by my dancing, it's on them.

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After a couple of songs, Haruhi discovered the food. I found her standing at a high-top, her plate piled high. My glutton.

"Hikaru, have you tried these puffy things?"

"Not yet."

"You have to," and she shoved one in my mouth.

"Good."

"You better be donating the leftovers."

"Of course, Haruhi. You taught us well. Although, with the way you're eating, there won't be any."

"Ha. Ha."

Then I heard some of the models that were standing behind us.

"That's Kaoru's unknown model."

"She better stop eating. No one wants a fat model."

"She'll never walk the runway. Too short. Too flat. And that hair…"

"Which twin is she with? How dare she feed him like that! She's nothing compared to us."

Catty bitches. "I'll be right back," I told Haruhi, and I walked up to them.

"I heard you. You have a lot of nerve insulting my friend."

They had the decency to stop smiling. "We were just talking, Kaoru."

Idiots. Kaoru's shirt is at least two shades of white darker than mine. "Doesn't matter. If you still want to work for the Hitachiin label, you need to back off."

I glared harder and crossed my arms. "You walked in Hitachiin clothes. You are representing the Label here. Act like it, or we'll find other models." I spun on my heel and stomped back to Haruhi. She had no idea it even happened. Good.

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"Haruhi, would you like to dance?"

"Thank you, Mori-senpai."

I led her onto the floor. A slow song had started. I'm not good at the faster ones.

"Tell me about the club," she asked.

"It was the first. I wanted to try something different, something my family doesn't do."

"What made you think of this?"

"The club before closed, and the building was for sale. It felt like an impulse even if I researched and planned for a month. The remodel took almost six months. It's the exclusivity that keeps it popular."

I watched her eyes roaming the club. The gears in her head were turning. "You could save some money if you used less expensive glassware."

"Haruhi," I sighed, "when a customer is paying 3,000 yen (~$30) a drink, they expect it to be served in the finest."

She stopped dancing and stared at me. "Three thousand?"

"Hn." I got us dancing again.

"That's just a little less than my weekly food budget."

"It's 40,000 yen ($400) for bottle service. And that's per person."

"That's more than my rent."

"I know."

"Rich bastards. I'll never understand wasting all that money."

Obviously, no one in here thinks they're wasting their money. My profits reflect that. When you have more than you need, it's a totally different mindset. That's what she tried to show us during the challenge. Some learned more than others.

All leftover and extra food here is donated to a soup kitchen. I've incorporated her ideals wherever possible.

The song changed, and she said, "I'm really tired. Do you think the twins would mind if I left early?"

"Let's ask. I'll drive you home."

.

She looks nice tonight. Those twins know how to dress her. Managed to get my hands on one of the programs while taking pictures. Looks good there too. I'll hand it over to the boss. He'll want to see it.

Morinozuka drove her home. Once I get a couple more pictures, I'll head to bed. She won't be going out again tonight.

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xXx

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Sunday, January 9:

Fujioka Neighborhood:

"Good morning, Yoshida-san."

"Good morning, Haruhi-chan. I've got your newspapers ready."

"Thanks."

"However," he paused and smiled at me, "you might want to buy this fashion tabloid too."

He handed it to me. What the hell? My picture is on the cover. Kaoru said I wouldn't be included in the press release.

"That is you, isn't it?"

"Yes," I huffed. Guess I have to buy it. "How much is this?"

"That's on the house, Haruhi-chan. You should get a free copy of your first news coverage."

"Thank you, Yoshida-san." I paid for my newspapers and ran back home.

.

Phone call between Kaoru and Haruhi:

Kaoru: "Hello, Haruhi."

Haruhi: "What the hell, Kaoru?" My face is in the news!"

Kaoru: "I know. Isn't it great?"

Haruhi: "No, it's not. You said I wasn't going to be in the press packet."

Kaoru: That's what this is. I sighed, "I said your name wouldn't be in the press packet."

Haruhi: …

Kaoru: "You still there?"

Haruhi: "Yes."

Kaoru: "Did you read the articles? It's great coverage. Nothing but positive feedback for the show and my new line."

Haruhi: "That's good."

Kaoru: "You OK?"

Haruhi: "Shocked mostly."

Kaoru: "Sorry about that."

Haruhi: "No, don't worry. I misunderstood you. It just shocked me to see it."

Kaoru: "Where did you see it?"

Haruhi: "Some fashion tabloid. You mean it's in more than one!" I shouted.

Kaoru: "It's everywhere."

Haruhi: "Crap."

.

xXx

.

Kasanoda Noodle Restaurant:

"Thanks for helping me with my English, Haruhi."

"No problem. I'm always happy to help. Feels good to get back into our regular Sunday routine. Classes start up again tomorrow. We need to be ready."

We'd spent the afternoon at the public library. When we were ready to leave, she was frantic for some noodles. Managed to talk herself into going to the restaurant.

Now, we're sitting at the window, chowing down.

"These are amazing. You can't talk her into giving me the recipe?"

"Nope. You could always marry into the family. I'm single," I joked, waggling my eyebrows at her. It earned a laugh.

SCREEEEEECH

CRASH

BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!

"Anyone hit?!"

.

xXx

.

Across the Street:

My turn to watch the noodle place from across the street. Boring. Nothing ever hap…

"Fuck!" I grab my gun.

Two motorcycles. Two guys each.

First one throws something threw the window. Second sprays the place with bullets.

Tried to get a shot off. They were too fast. My background wasn't clear.

"Fuck!" I'm running across the street.

.

xXx

.

Inside Restaurant:

"What the fuck just happened?"

"Anyone hit?"

"YOUNG LORD!"

"HARUHI!"

"Oh, FUCK."

.

xXx

.

On the Road:

We were on our bikes as fast as possible. Just barely have them in our sites.

Two motorcycles. Two guys on each. The ones in back locked and loaded. We will end them.

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xXx

.

Down The Street:

I better have gotten a shot of that. If not, the dashcam should have picked it up.

My employer needs to know this right now. I'll text him.

If anyone's hurt, they'll be taken back to the compound. I'll go there and wait somewhere on the route they go when they take the girl home.

.

xXx

.

Restaurant:

"Young Lord, you're hit!"

"Shit!" he mumbled.

Tetsuya pushed a towel on the wound and hauled him to my feet. "We have to get you out of here now. More could be coming."

"Ritsu!" Haruhi screamed as she ran to him. "Where did it hit you?" She grabbed the towel from Tetsuya and held the pressure.

"We need to get out of here."

"He can't go anywhere. He's been shot. We need an ambulance."

"No. Compound," Tetsuya insisted.

"He shouldn't move. He's pale. Going into shock," Haruhi said.

"Yuki, grab her!"

I scooped her up by the waist with one arm, Tetsuya grabbed the Young Lord by his good shoulder. "Run. We have to get to the car!"

"RITSU!" Haruhi was struggling, trying to break free. "Put me down, Yuki. Put me down now. He needs a doctor! He needs an ambulance!"

"There's an emergency room at the Compound, remember? Doctors are waiting."

"Then shut up and get going."

Flanked by four other guards, we flew out the back and into the waiting SUV. Armor plated. Bullet proof glass. Solid rubber tires. Nothing's stopping us in this.

.

xXx

.

Himura Syndicate Compound:

"Our kids are getting along better and better."

"Yes. The merger of our two syndicates is promising."

"Those pictures you sent of Ritsu on the back of my daughter's motorcycle were priceless."

"Weren't they? I had one framed and put in my bedroom. My wife would have loved it."

"MASTER!"

One of my guards ran into the room yelling for me. He better have a fucking good reason for interrupting this.

"Speak!"

"There's been a shooting at the Kasanoda noodle restaurant!"

Ryuu-san sprang up and grabbed my guard by the shirt. "Who's dead? Who did it? What happened?"

"Ryuu-san," I barked, "let him go."

He dropped his hand and my guard blurted out, "I don't know. All I know is the shooting. We didn't have anyone over there."

"As you shouldn't," Ryuu-san growled.

He dialed a number and yelled into the receiver:

Ryuu: "What the fuck happened?"

Other End: …

Ryuu: "Who?"

Other End: …

Ryuu: "Find them!"

Other End: …

Ryuu: "Fuck! Is he OK?"

Other End: …

Ryuu: "I'm going to the restaurant!"

Other End: …

Ryuu: "Fine. I'm coming home."

Snapping the phone shut and running to the door, he yelled over his shoulder, "Ritsu's hit." With that he was out the door and in his car.

.

Ritsu hit? Ritsu shot? My Asshole shot? No fucking way!

"Kono! Get the bikes ready. I have to get over there."

.

xXx

.

Noodle Restaurant:

More guys came in, setting up a perimeter for the next attack.

"Look at this?" He held up a brick. "This must have been what came through the window before they started shooting."

"It came right between the Young Lord and Miss Haruhi. They're lucky."

"Put it down you moron. There could be fingerprints." He set it on the table.

"What's that on it?"

"It says 'Ronin'."

"Who the fuck is Ronin?"

"No fucking clue."

.

xXx

.

Streets of Tokyo:

"We lost them."

"Let's go back. The Boss can get footage from the cops."

"Yeah. We should be there if another wave comes."

.

xXx

.

Kasanoda Compound:

"There's a stretcher waiting, Young Lord."

"I can walk."

"Ritsu, get on the stretcher."

"Haruhi, it's just a flesh wound. I can walk."

She glared at the Young Lord and put her hands on her hips. "Ritsu, get on the stupid stretcher before I punch you in the face."

I held back my laugher as he said, "Damn, Haruhi. Calm down."

"Get on the stretcher. We're wasting time."

"Whatever," he mumbled and climbed on. Who knew that tiny girl could be that motivating?

.

Compound Emergency Room:

"Doc, will you tell everyone to calm the fuck down. It's a simple wound. Just fix it."

"I'll reassure them when I'm ready, Kasanoda-sama. I assume you still don't have a medical degree." He paused and glared at Ritsu. "Well then, off to X-Ray."

I couldn't sit still. Ritsu was shot. Shot! All my nightmares have come true. I was still pacing the floor when he was wheeled back.

"Alright, Kasanoda-sama, I'll reassure them now." The doctor looked around and announced, "Simple through and through. No arteries hit. No bones hit. I'll stich up the entry and exit and he wears a sling for at least a week."

"Aw, really Doc? Do I have to?"

"Yes. Sit still."

I was sitting on Ritsu's right side, holding his hand when his father stormed in. I know he's a yakuza boss, but I never thought he could look so…deadly.

He pulled up short when he saw me. "Haruhi. You shouldn't be here."

"My friend has been shot. Where else would I be."

"Yeah, Haruhi. What are you doing here?"

The room went quiet and Ritsu said, "Shinobu-chan?"

.

Well, this is just great. Pops, Haruhi, and Shinobu. I'm not going to get any peace tonight.

Haruhi jumped up and said, "Shinobu-san, I'm glad you're here. Please take my seat." She let go of my hand and backed away. "Ritsu and I had been studying all afternoon. We were hungry, so we went for noodles."

"Wait!" Pops yelled. He pointed at Shinobu and yelled, "How did you get in here?"

"Pops, I put her on the admittance list if escorted. Her security stays out of the compound."

"We'll talk about that later, Ritsu." Shit. Didn't think he'd be that mad.

Shinobu-chan was holding my hand. It felt good. Reassuring and warm. Am I actually enjoying being shot?

"Haruhi," Shinobu said, "is that Ritsu's blood?"

She has blood all over her, but I don't think it's mine. What the hell?

"I'm sure it is," Haruhi said.

Doc went up and examined her. "You have several cuts. Probably from flying glass. Some need stiches. Some just bandages. We'll probably find more. Come with me."

"Now that she's being stitched up, what are you doing here?" I asked Shinobu.

"You were shot, Asshole. Had to check on you, didn't I? You're delicate, you know."

"Fuck delicate. I'm badass."

"Badasses shoot others, not get shot."

"Really?"

"Yeah, Asshole. Really."

.

xXx

.

Noodle Restaurant:

"Report!" I ordered as soon as I stepped into the place.

"No second wave. Kasanoda-sama the only one shot. Lost shooters while in pursuit, Fuji-sama."

Not the kind of shit I want to hear as the head of the Kasanoda Syndicate Security.

"This brick was thrown through the window by the first motorcycle. The second did the shooting."

"Ronin. Any ideas?"

"Beyond the obvious, no."

"Bag that. Check for fingerprints. I want every bullet and casing brought in. Board up the windows. Get replacements installed tomorrow and then back to business. Can't look weak."

"Yes, Sir."

"And add more cameras in a three-block radius!"

"Yes, Sir."

.

xXx

.

Compound Emergency Room:

I burst out laughing, "You look ridiculous." Haruhi was wearing sweats at least three sizes too big. "Don't they have any kid's sizes?"

She had stiches on her forehead, at the top next to her hairline. The shirt was so big, I could see a bandage on her collar bone and another on her neck.

She rolled up her sleeves and pants. Stiches and bandages on her arms and ankles. "How are you feeling."

"Hungry. Didn't get to finish my noodles."

"You idiot. You're lying there shot, and you're thinking about food?" Shinobu snarled.

"Doesn't he always think about food?"

"Nope. That's you, Haruhi."

The chicks looked at each other, having a discussion with their eyes the way only chicks can. I'm in trouble.

Haruhi turned back to me. "You can have something to eat if you go to your room and lie down."

"And stay there through the night," Shinobu finished.

Just what I thought, trouble.

"What? I need to get to the security office and find out what's going on."

"No," Shinobu said, "you need to get to bed. Your father is handling everything. He'll keep you updated."

"Are you going to walk to your room, or do we have to get you a wheelchair?"

"That's low, Haruhi."

"We'll do what's necessary."

I'm sure they will. "I'll walk." Fuck.

.

Kasanoda's Room:

"He's so stubborn."

"I know," Haruhi-san said.

"Should we feed him?"

"Not sure. With him coming out of shock, it's just come back up anyway."

"Hey!" Ritsu-kun said, "I'm right here!" We ignored him.

"Maybe some green tea to settle his stomach," Haruhi-san suggested.

"That might work, but nothing solid."

"He'll have a fit."

"Let him. I can take him," I said.

"Don't talk about me like I'm not standing right here!" he yelled. "There's no way you'd win." We still ignored him.

"How about some broth?"

"Broth! How about a steak!?"

"Do you hear something, Haruhi-san?"

"Nope."

"Broth will work."

At this point, Yuki said, "Come with me, Young Lord. I'll help you change into your pajamas. You shouldn't be moving that arm."

"I don't need to be babied, Yuki. I've been dressing myself for a long time."

"Wouldn't know it from some of the clothes you wear," I called.

Haruhi-san ordered the green tea and broth. I didn't want to ask how she knew how from Ritsu-kun's bedroom.

"He'll just have to live with it," she said.

"Yeah. I'm not giving that idiot a full meal."

.

Once those chicks tucked me in nice and tight, they tried to feed me broth.

"I do have one good arm, you know."

"I don't want you to spill all over yourself, Asshole."

"Whatever."

Shinobu held up a cup of green tea. "This should help settle your stomach." It is kinda nice being pampered like this.

Haruhi helped me drink about half the broth. "You can have a real meal in the morning."

"I'm only going to say this once, you two, so pay attention." They looked at me. Both of them are sweet to have done all this. "Thank you for taking care of me."

"Aww, the big yakuza heir knows how to say thank you."

Haruhi put her hand on mine. "You're welcome, Ritsu."

"Now get out of here. This shoulder is starting to hurt, and I need another pill."

"Don't you need someone here tonight?"

"Yuki's has medical training. He'll sit with me tonight. Standard procedure."

"Good. See ya, Asshole."

"Good night, Ritsu."

.

xXx

.

Compound Control Room:

"Report!" I barked. After I left the restaurant, I drove by a couple of our other places. I wanted to see them again. Assess vulnerabilities. I trust my guys to do their jobs at the Compound.

"Fujii-sama. We lost pursuit. Still no second attack. All evidence brought in and being processed."

My communications head spoke up, "Several syndicate heads have called denying responsibility. Here's the list." I looked over it. Most of them are checked off.

I looked over at Ryuu-sama. "How's Kasanoda-sama?"

"Through and through, left shoulder. He'll be fine."

"Yeah, the first one's always the toughest," I said.

"Yeah. Was hoping it'd be a while longer."

I sat down at our conference table next to him and called the division heads over. "Assessments?"

Ryuu-sama and I let them talk it out. When they're done, we'll step in and made decisions.

"The Young Lord wasn't expected there. His detail saw no one following them from the library. Unlikely they were a specific target."

"Agreed. The spray pattern indicates that."

"But one of them could still be a target."

"Why would anyone target Fujioka-sama?"

"Doesn't seem likely."

"She's close to the Young Lord. They could be targeting her to get to him."

"Nah, doesn't pass the smell test. If they wanted to hurt him, they'd go after Himura-sama. Their dating now."

"But how many know that?"

"They all do. They must. We all watch each other. Any one of them would have noticed he's seeing a lot less of Fujioka-sama and more of Himura-sama. He's never kissed Fujioka-sama, but he did kiss Himura-sama," Tetsuya said.

"When?!" Ryuu-sama snapped.

"At the New Year's Eve ball. At the stroke of midnight."

"A peck on the cheek?"

"No, Kasanoda-sama. It was quite intense."

"Good," he mumbled. "Continue."

"If they were after Himura-sama to hurt the Young Lord, they would have done it while they were together. They've been out the last two nights."

"We still need to warn her father."

"Done," Ryuu-sama said.

"The question is, if there were no specific targets, and they were just shooting up the restaurant, were they targeting the Kasanoda Syndicate or yakuza in general."

"Yeah, and who'd want to and have the balls to do it."

"That takes us back to the brick," I said.

"Yes, Fujii-sama. I have the report." He looked over the paper quickly and gave us a summary. "No fingerprints. No fibers. No dust or anything that couldn't have come from the restaurant. Dead end forensically."

"Ronin?"

"No fucking clue. Means a wandering samurai who has no lord or master. Besides that, no idea."

Ryuu-sama stood up and gave orders, "Put the techs on 'Ronin'. Any chatter or anything on social media. Some people are idiots and may have posted something.

"Double Ritsu's detail until further notice.

"Put someone on Fujioka. She's not to know he's there.

"Fujii-san, full security review. Sweep all our properties and vehicles again. I know we just did it on Wednesday but do it again."

"Of course, Ryuu-sama."

"If the review shows weaknesses, fix them. Extend camera coverage at least another block. If it happens again, we want more warning.

"I'm going to check on Ritsu, then contact all the heads. Give me that list."

.

xXx

.

Himura Syndicate SUV:

"Thanks for the ride home, Shinobu-san."

"No problem. Didn't want you walking or taking public transpo. I was leaving anyway."

"It still doesn't seem real. It feels like it's been days, but it's still light outside."

I looked over at the commoner. Stiches and bandages. Her eyes were darting from window to window. Hands starting to shake. "How are you doing, Haruhi-san?"

She met my eyes and mumbled, "Fine. The doctor cleaned me up. Five cuts needed stiches. Worst was my knee. I landed on some glass. Lots of other small scrapes. He said there'd be only small scars."

Halfway through that, her eyes turned to the floor of the car. She's not used to this at all. I'm not saying I am, but I've been around several shootings. So's Asshole.

"Do you want to stay at my place tonight?"

She looked up in surprise. "No, but thanks. I'd rather be home."

"Sure."

She's strong. She'll hold it together. Needs some quiet time to come to terms.

I'm still shaky myself, and I wasn't even there. It was seeing Ritsu-kun laying on the stretcher. Reminded me of my brother. That was years ago. I try not to think about it. That was my first shooting. Nothing like the grand old age of eight to watch your brother die. And that was only the first I witnessed.

.

xXx

.

Ritsu's Bedroom:

"Hey, kid. How you doing?"

I tried to sit up. "Pops, did you find out anything? Do we know who it was? Why? Is everyone else OK?"

"Calm down. Lie down." He sat down on my bed and ruffled my hair. He hasn't done that in years.

"Don't know who. Don't know why. Everyone else is uninjured."

He smiled. "Now, how are you?"

"Fuck, Pops. I've been shot!"

"I know, kid. The first one's always the worst."

"Hurts more than I thought it would."

"That's the adrenaline wearing off."

"Couldn't focus. Didn't know what to do."

"That's the shock."

"Was worried about Haruhi. She didn't deserve to go through that."

"No one innocent does."

I looked around my room. Things that seemed important before, don't now. When someone can just come up and shoot you…

"Get some rest," he said, patting my good shoulder. "Try not to overthink. If you are having problems dealing with it, come to ME. I'll help."

"Thanks, Pops."

He was on his way out the door before I remembered. "Does Haruhi need a guard?"

"Taken care of. Get some sleep."

.

xXx

.

Fujioka Apartment:

I walked in the door and just stood there. Shaking. Finally catching up to me. Adrenalin wearing off. I barely made it to the toilet in time.

I'd been in a shooting. A yakuza shooting. Isn't this what I'd been trying to avoid by distancing myself from Ritsu. And the first time I go back to that stupid noodle place, there's a shooting.

I have to calm down. I'm going to brush my teeth, make some tea, clean myself up, and curl up in bed. Dad and Jarou-san are on a date. No one will bother me.

.

I woke up to the phone ringing.

Phone call between Kyoya and Haruhi:

Kyoya: "Hello, Haru."

Haruhi: Did he hear about the shooting. "Hello, Senpai."

Kyoya: "I saw the coverage."

Haruhi: Crap. It's on the news?

Kyoya: "You looked lovely."

Haruhi: Lovely? At a shooting?

Kyoya: "Kaoru does know how to dress you."

Haruhi: Oh, the fashion show news. "Yes, he does."

Kyoya: "He's a good designer, but without you his designs wouldn't look as good."

Haruhi: "He could make anyone look good."

Kyoya: "I don't believe that's true. Great artists need great materials."

Haruhi: "Whatever." I changed the subject, "Why are you calling, Senpai?"

Kyoya: Senpai again. I'll wear her down eventually. "Just to chat. I saw your picture in the paper and wanted to tell you how beautiful you are."

Haruhi: "Thanks."

Kyoya: "What is the club doing to Wednesday's cosplay?"

Haruhi: I talked to him for a few more minutes before saying, "I need to go, Senpai. I still have homework."

Kyoya: "Alright. See you Tuesday at lunch. Good night, Haru."

Haruhi: He's still calling me Haru. Would he stop if I asked him? It's painful to hear. "Good night, Senpai."

.

xXx

.

Somewhere in Tokyo:

"RO…NIN!"

"RO…NIN!"

"RO…NIN!"

The chanting. My people are chanting for me.

"Quiet!"

They shut up and looked at me with adoring eyes.

"Tonight was a success! We've sent our first message to the yakuza!"

"RO…NIN!"

"RO…NIN!"

"RO…NIN!"

"THE PLAN WILL CONTINUE!"

"RO…NIN!"

"RO…NIN!"

"RO…NIN!"

"DRINK UP AND CELEBRATE!"

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

Aren't you glad I didn't cliffhang in the middle of the shooting? Interesting. What do you think they're up to?

Had fun with the fashion show. Hope you like where this is going. Some stories have her model, some don't, and some don't say anything about it. I like it when she models. She's doing it for her dad and Kaoru. You know Haruhi…anything for a friend.

Snowboarding and fireworks. Hope you like where I'm going with Kasanoda and Shinobu. I'm not changing course.

.

Next Chapter:

Back to school. How do the guys handle the shooting? What's the fallout?

.