The Next Phase

by MollyMuffinHead

Sequel to 'The Learning Curve'. Through a series of events, each host undergoes a major life change. Some bad, some good. Everyone's participation in the world is expanded through business, charity, tragedy, love, friendship, and luck (good and bad). Rated for Language and Smooching. Sequel up: 'The Way Forward'

13. Chapter 13 - She's Awake

Author's Note: Welcome back! Thanks for the follows, favorites, and reviews. I'm glad to know you're enjoying my story. This is a sad one…

Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will.

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xXx

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Date Posted: 11/30/2019

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Next Phase - Chapter 13: She's Awake

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Monday, January 7:

Phone call between Morinozuka Lawyer and Morinozuka Akira:

Lawyer: "I'm coming to you with the papers. Everything's finalized."

Akira: "Good work. Get copies to who needs them. Bring three copies with you. Get here as soon as possible."

Lawyer: "Yes, Sir."

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Phone call between Ootori Lawyer and Kyoya:

Kyoya: "If you don't have good news, you'll regret it."

Lawyer: "I apologize, Ootori-sama. There wasn't a judge there that would sign the papers. They'd all been told that the Morinozuka's had the legal standing and had had their documents signed already."

Kyoya: "What!? That's unacceptable."

Lawyer: "Unacceptable or not, it cannot be done."

Kyoya: "Get here NOW! I'll need you to authenticate the Morinozuka's claim."

Lawyer: "Yes, Sir."

Fucking incompetent lawyer. If I've lost my claim on Haruhi because of that moron…

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xXx

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Haruhi's Patient Room:

When Kyoya-san came back in, I knew the phone call was about our guardianship. I definitely didn't want to make him angrier, so I held my tongue.

"Morinozuka-san, it seems our lawyers will be here soon."

"Thank you, Kyoya-san." I knew already, having received a text from my husband while Kyoya-san was out of the room.

He stared at Haruhi-chan for a long time. He looked furious, despite trying to hold on to his mask.

"May I ask how this guardianship came about?" His voice was quiet, but it had a razor-sharp edge.

I was sure my husband already told him some of this. "Eighteen months ago or so, when your father was threatening Haruhi-chan, she and her father stayed with us before she was relocated to the meditation retreat.

"During that time, her father asked if we could take custody of her if he couldn't take care of her. He explained he wasn't sick or expecting anything to happen, he wanted to make sure his daughter would be safe."

"And you said yes?" Getting angrier.

"Akira and I discussed it at length both between ourselves and with Fujioka-san. In the end, we decided to do what would be best for Haruhi-chan."

"Why you?" He's almost yelling at this point.

I kept my voice low and even. "I believe it was trust. He trusted us with his daughter. That's both a high complement and a huge responsibility. We did not enter into it lightly."

He stood and walked to the window, staring out at the Haninozuka and Morinozuka guards.

I watched Haruhi-chan as I listened to the beeping of the machines and his deep breathing. I'm sure if I could read minds, I would hear him counting to ten, maybe several times.

Without turning he said, "And you believe leaving Haru here, under Ootori medical care, is not in her best interest?" The volume was lower, but that sharp edge was still there.

"Yes."

"She's getting the best medical care in Japan."

"At a surgical rehabilitation center, not a hospital with all medical facilities, equipment, and care available?"

"Then allow me to transfer her to Tokyo Main, where she'll remain under Ootori care."

He's grasping at straws. Trying to retain some of his pride and power. That's not what this is about, but I doubt he'll learn that.

"That is not possible, Kyoya-san. Perhaps if you hadn't felt the need to take her and hide her from everyone…"

"I wanted her safe. She could be the target of that accident."

"A good point, however, it would not have been necessary to keep that information from the Haninozuka's. Their guard died in that accident."

"Which they knew as soon as they made it to the crime scene."

This is pointless. After everything that's happened, I don't have it in me to placate this boy's pride. To offer him an out after what he's done.

"I believe we'll have to agree to disagree in this matter."

"Yes, we will, Morinozuka-san."

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xXx

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Empty Patient Room:

It all comes down to this. Will the paperwork be real? Have they been fucking with me all morning? Will they really take Haru away from me?

"I've read over the documents, Ootori-sama. They are in order and legally approved. The Morinozuka's are, in fact, Fujioka Haruhi's legal guardians."

If I killed my lawyer right now…if I put my hands around his throat and squeezed the life out of him…would anyone blame me?

I've lost her.

"Let me see those!" I ordered and snatched them from his hands.

Shit. Everything is in order. These are legally binding. I don't see any loopholes. How could Ranka do this to me!

What do I do now? Do I make them try to take her by force? Do I capitulate and work on a plan to get her back? Can the ground open up and swallow them whole?

Fuck.

"I'll keep this copy. I'll order my troops to stand down and allow your doctor and family to come in. If, and only if, your doctor and my doctor agree she can be moved, will I allow it. Haru's well-being is my top concern."

"Thank you, Kyoya-san. I'll bring my doctor and sons in as soon as your troops are withdrawn."

I nodded at Tachibana to give the order. I will say this, the Morinozuka's have class. Never once did they smirk or look overly happy they won. That won't stop me from getting her back.

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xXx

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Haruhi's Patient Room:

Finally, I can see her with my own eyes. Haruhi's safe. Kyoya has acknowledged my parent's guardianship and she will be transferred to better facilities that we own.

I sat holding her hand and looking at her beautiful face, now covered with bruises and cuts. Off in the distance, I could hear our doctor's assessment.

"After reviewing the tests and medical records, she's fine to be transferred."

"I concur," Kyoya's doctor said. I vaguely wondered if the man would be out of the country by tomorrow. Why didn't Kyoya tell him to keep her here?

"Good," our doctor continued. "This is what will happen. We will load Fujioka-san into an ambulance to be driven to the helipad. From there, she'll be flown to the Nazuka Hospital. Concerns?" he asked as he looked around the room.

Kyoya stormed out.

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xXx

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Lunch, Ouran Dining Hall:

"I spoke with my father about Haruhi. Her teachers have been told she'll be out all week due to an accident," Tamaki-kun told us all as he sat down.

"Oh, no. Is she alright?" Naoko asked.

The girlfriends hadn't been told anything specific, just like the rest of the student body. I assume they will be once Haruhi wakes up and she can be told.

"We're not sure what happened, but she should be fine," I smiled.

"Thanks, Renge."

"But where are Satoshi and Chika?" Cho-senpai asked.

"I think it's a family commitment," Kaoru said.

Those of us that knew what was going on, stared at each other, hoping for the best.

This will get much worse before it gets any better.

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Lunch was subdued, with everyone's thoughts running wild:

Tamaki: My darling daughter. To be so injured and be denied her father. She'll need me more than ever to help her through this.

First thing I'll do is change her bodyguard team. They obviously aren't up to the job. How could they let this happen? Honey-senpai said she'd be safe!

Hikaru: That stuck-up asshole Chika. How dare he keep us from her! Kaoru and I need our triplet, and she needs us. We're her family now. Not the Morinozuka's. Where does Ranka get off leaving them in charge? She'd be much better with us.

Kaoru: Ranka's dead. Now Haruhi has lost both her mother and her father. Will she get through this? She'll need all of us supporting her. She may need more than that. Wonder if Hika's doc can recommend someone.

Kasanoda: I'll kill whoever had her. I'll walk right up to them, put my gun against their forehead, and pull the trigger. Then, I'll laugh.

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xXx

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Phone Call from Tamaki to Kyoya:

Voice Mail: "Kyoya! You haven't called me back, and I'm still getting voice mail. Haruhi's been in an accident, and she needs her daddy. I have to know where she is.

"Mori-senpai's parents are her guardians. I don't understand. Shouldn't her father be her guardian? I can protect her and keep her safe. She'd get better faster with me.

"CALL ME BACK!"

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xXx

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Helicopter Above Tokyo:

"Mmmm," I heard Haruhi-chan moan. She hadn't woken up once while I was waiting with Kyoya-san. I'm sorry she woke up on the helicopter.

Her eyes tracked around on our faces. When they landed on Eiji, she tried to talk. "Eiji…Kyoya…where…"

He took her hand and talked to her gently. "Everything will be fine, Miss Haruhi. We're taking you to a hospital. We'll take good care of you. Don't worry."

She looked around again and closed her eyes.

"The medication she's been on has been keeping her unconscious. It's giving her time to heal, but I need her awake to assess her concussion. Once we get to the hospital, I'll take her off of it."

"Thank you," I said and looked at Eiji. He was still holding her hand. It's hard enough to carry the guilt for the things you've done, but he's carrying guilt for the accident, which was not his fault.

I'll talk to him about that later.

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xXx

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Afternoon, Nozuka Hospital:

Haru-chan was being sent for tests. The doctor wanted repeats of her x-rays and MRI to compare them to those from Juntendo and the rehab facility.

The families and security are in a private waiting room, waiting. Waiting for Haru-chan's results. Waiting for what comes next.

This hospital is the safest place for Haru-chan to be except for our estates. The Haninozuka's and the Morinozuka's own this hospital. Because of our dojos and security training, we see many different types of injuries. This hospital was created to treat injuries associated with martial arts and grew from there.

There is a contract with Ootori Medical to provide staff. Ootori does have the best doctors and nurses. However, it's only a contract. He does not own any part of this hospital. He will not be allowed entrance.

Umeko-chan, my aunt, spoke up, "Now that she's safe and being taken care of by the best we have, it's time for all of us to go home, shower, eat something, and get some sleep."

"But Mother…"

"I know, Takashi. I'm not saying all of us at once. There will always be someone here for her. I want her to see familiar faces when she regains consciousness. She needs to feel safe.

"Kyoya-san told me she doesn't know about her father, Jarou-san, or Matsui. It's best he didn't tell her. She shouldn't be told the second she wakes up."

"Why don't we go home, Dear. We can leave the boys to watch over her and come back this evening."

"Excellent idea." She turned to Takashi and said, "Watch over her and let us know if anything changes." Her eyes swept all four boys. "You'll all be going back to school tomorrow."

"Mother, she needs us."

"Takashi, you know Haruhi-chan better than most of us. How would she react if she woke up and found you were skipping school for her?"

He hung his head and mumbled, "She'd be mad we missed school."

"It's OK, Takashi. You and I only have two classes tomorrow. We can come back right after they're finished."

"Yeah, Bro. Host club is cancelled this week. We can come right after school."

"Who will be here with her tonight and tomorrow?"

She walked up to him and put her hand on his shoulder. "Takashi, she's in the Morinozuka suite here. It has a guest room, a lounge area, and another bed in the patient room. I'll stay here tonight and tomorrow. I'm sure Kumi will be here too."

"I'll be in for part of tomorrow as well," Uncle said.

"Alright." I could tell he didn't like it, but Auntie was right about how Haru-chan would react.

"Let's go," my uncle said. "Eiji, you stay with the boys and come home with them when we get back."

"Yes, Sir."

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The four of us sat waiting. Mitsukuni found some cake, Satoshi was staring out the window, and Yasuchika was on his phone.

I was pacing the lounge, looking out into the hallway with every pass. Where is she? What is taking those tests so long?

I grabbed my phone like a lifeline when it rang.

It was Kasanoda asking if he could come visit and give me an update in person.

"Who was that?"

"Kasanoda. He's coming to give us an update about finding the person and car that ran them off the road."

"Coming here?"

"Yes. He won't tell the rest of them he came to visit."

"True."

I continued to pace, waiting for Haruhi to come back from her tests.

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xXx

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Phone Call between Kasanoda and Shinobu:

Shinobu: "Ritsu! Have you heard anything?"

Kasanoda: "Just coming back from the hospital. Got to see her. She's still out of it, but the doctors are positive. Said she'll be fine."

Shinobu: "That's good. Does she know about her dad yet?"

Kasanoda: "Nope. She's been too foggy the few times she's woken up."

Shinobu: "Shit."

Kasanoda: "I know. It's selfish as fuck, but I'm glad I'm not the one telling her."

Shinobu: "What's next?"

Kasanoda: "Still don't know shit about the dickheads that did this. Between Haruhi and the shootings, we're all spread a little thin."

Shinobu: "We've put a hold on all business for a couple days to focus on the shootings. If they were smart, they'd switch up the schedule."

Kasanoda: "They aren't smart. Those that get kicked out are either too sadistic or fucking dumb. We'll get 'em."

Shinobu: "I want blood."

Kasanoda: "Everyone does. You or I might not get to pull the trigger, but I want to fucking watch."

Shinobu: "Yeah, me too." I waited for him to say something and then asked something that's been bugging me. "With her dad dead, what's going to happen to her?"

Kasanoda: "Ranka gave custody to the Morinozuka's. They're taking it seriously and will be good for Haruhi."

Shinobu: "It's going to be a bitch to get through. We've both lost people. We know."

Kasanoda: "Yeah. She lost her mom when she was so young, and now her father. I'd be lost without Pops."

Shinobu: "I lost my brother when I was eight. Took me years to get past the worst. I'm still not over it. Probably never will be."

Kasanoda: "I'm sorry about your brother, Shinobu-chan. I've heard good things about him."

Shinobu: "He was the best. Always had time for his kid sister. He taught me a lot. My parents were devastated."

Kasanoda: "I think Pops and I checked out from reality for months after mom died."

Shinobu: "Haruhi-san's going to need everyone's help."

Kasanoda: "Agreed."

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xXx

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Morinozuka Dining Room:

"There's so much to consider, so much to do," Umeko said. "She needs a room, a full security squad, an account, clothes, and we'll need to replace whatever she lost in the crash."

When we signed the guardianship paperwork with Ranka, none of us expected to ever need it. He asked us just for his peace of mind. Now, my family is here, with a new addition, a new responsibility. One we take very seriously.

"We need to tell the school more details and plan a funeral," my wife continued. "Akira, do we have a copy of Ranka's will?"

"No. Only the guardianship paperwork, which could be legalized separate from the will with a death certificate."

"We need to get a copy. I assume Haruhi-chan is the beneficiary. What about his boyfriend? Does he have family that needs to be notified? Where can we find his will?"

"I don't know. If Haruhi-chan doesn't know, we'll have to search the apartment and maybe the bank they use."

She sighed and continued, "We'll need to set up an account at the school for her lunches and buy her new uniforms. Her apartment needs to be packed up and everything brought over to the house."

I took her hand and squeezed. "We have time for all that. Let's get her well first. Then we can ask her what she wants to do. Haruhi-chan's used to a completely different lifestyle and culture. We shouldn't rush her. She's not becoming a Morinozuka but staying a Fujioka. Everything about this will take a while."

"You're right. I'm getting ahead of myself."

"Understandable. Someone has to keep track of everything that needs to happen. You should turn it over to your assistant."

"I feel I should take charge. Haruhi-chan be more comfortable talking to me, but I will have Aoi track everything and do some of it."

"That makes sense." I looked at my watch and said, "Let's go shower and take a nap. Then we can go relieve the boys."

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xXx

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Haruhi's Patient Room:

"Aaaahhhh," Haruhi moaned, coming out of her unconscious state.

I'd been sitting next to her and jumped up in a flash. "Haruhi? It's me, Takashi. Can you hear me?"

"Mori…Mori-senpai?" Her voice was rough and scratchy.

"Here, take a sip of water," I said as I put the straw up to her lips. She drank slowly.

"Mori-senpai?" she said again, her voice much better.

"I'm here, Haruhi. I'm here. The doctors are taking good care of you. Don't worry. You're safe."

I saw her eyes roll around the room, searching for something.

"Kyoya-senpai?"

"He's not here. He's gone and not coming back. You won't see him again."

"Thank you," she mumbled and fell back asleep.

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xXx

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Tuesday, February 8:

Kyoya's Apartment:

I woke up to loud crashes and yelling. Grabbing my gun, I ran through the connecting door between my apartment and Kyoya-sama's.

What I found was surprising and not at the same time.

Almost everything in the room was broken. Kyoya-sama was throwing what was left at the walls and floor. The pictures of Miss Haruhi and him were smashed along with every other glass object in the room.

He was roaring in anger, swearing at the Morinozuka's.

I ducked as a chair was hurled my way. He's in such a rage, he doesn't even know I'm here.

I decided not to stop him. While not the healthiest way to work out his anger at losing Miss Haruhi, he needed to get it out. As soon as he moved on to the kitchen, I regretted my decision.

He started on the plates and bowls, screaming, "Take that Mori-senpai!", with every crash. When he moved on to the food in the refrigerator, I grabbed his arms to stop him.

"Kyoya-sama! That's enough!" I barked.

It took a minute for his eyes to gain focus. "Let me go, Tachibana!" he roared, trying to throw me off.

"No. This rampage of destruction must stop. It's not doing any good if you are still obliterating everything."

He collapsed through my arms and onto the floor. "The Morinozuka's will never let me see her again. What am I going to do now?" His voice was quiet and forlorn. I'd never seen him like this before.

"You are going to get up, take a shower, and eat breakfast. I'll take care of this mess."

He got up off the floor and went towards his bedroom. I called the maid and told her to get help from the mansion. At least three other people.

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xXx

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Haruhi's Patient Room:

I woke up to find Haruhi-chan still unconscious, and the doctor examining her.

"Good morning, Morinozuka-sama,"

"Good morning, Doctor. How is she?"

"Doing well. Doesn't look like her arm is going to need surgery. I had an orthopedist review the x-rays, and he said the cast was sufficient."

"I'm relieved to hear that. Why is she still unconscious?"

"Last night we tried taking her off the medication that was keeping her under. Her vitals elevated and it seemed she was panicking. We'll try again tomorrow."

"Thank you."

Just then, my personal assistant, Aoi, came in. "Umeko-sama, you wanted to see me here?"

"Yes. Thank you for coming. Let's go down to the dining hall and get some breakfast while we talk."

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xXx

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Phone Call from Tamaki to Kyoya:

Voice Mail: "Kyoya, have you lost your cell phone? You haven't called me back. It's an emergency! Haruhi's in the hospital, and I need to see her. Do you know where she is?

"CALL ME BACK! PLEASE!"

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xXx

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Ouran Dining Hall:

"What's the charity today, Yasuchika?"

I looked up to see one of Haruhi's designees, Osamu-senpai. He's one of the few that respects her and sees her as a good friend.

"Digital Citizens. They focus on children living in group homes, giving them English training online. Elderly living in facilities are matched to children and they teach them through Skype, phone, or in person."

"Interesting. Here are five donations. I was disappointed to find out the Host Club is cancelled for the week."

"With Haruhi-senpai out, we took the opportunity to close and brainstorm ideas for upcoming events."

"I see. Good luck. I'm looking forward to enjoying your new ideas."

I want to go back to the hospital, but mother was firm about school. Haruhi-senpai is safe and in my aunt and uncle's custody. There's no reason for us to be there every minute. Doesn't make it any easier.

"Chika, I want to visit my daughter today," Tamaki-senpai whined. Great. He's still going on and on about that father/daughter idiocy.

"Boss, you aren't getting anywhere near her until you cut that shit out."

"Hikaru's right, Tamaki-kun. Everyone else can visit as soon as she wants, but you won't until you see her as a friend."

"Satoshi, when can we see her?" Kaoru-senpai asked.

"Probably another day or two. She's not ready for all the excitement. She's only waking up for a few minutes at a time."

"Tamaki-kun, if you're done with lunch, I need to talk to you. Follow me."

"Yes, Renge-chan."

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I pulled that idiot into an empty classroom and slapped him across the face. Not hard, but enough to get my point across.

"Haruhi is your friend. Your darling friend. Cut the bullshit, Tamaki-kun. You aren't her father. Her father is dead. You are insulting Ranka-san's memory by trying to be a fake father to Haruhi."

He collapsed in a chair and hung his head. "She needs a father now more than ever."

"NO! She needs her friends around her. She needs her friends being supportive and giving her the help she needs. She doesn't need anyone to replace her father." I lifted his chin up so I could see his eyes. "Could anyone replace your mother?"

"Of course not."

"Then why are you trying to replace her father?"

I saw the lightbulb and sat down on his lap. "She needs you. The real you. The you you've become with her help. That's what you can do to help her."

He laid his head on my shoulder. "Thank you, Renge-chan."

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xXx

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Haninozuka Security Headquarters:

"Eiji, come in."

I walked into the room and saw Yorishia-sama, Ishikawa, Akira-sama, and Oshiro sitting around the conference table.

Are they going to fire me for my incompetence?

Akira-sama took the lead, "Eiji, please sit. We've been discussing Haruhi-chan's security detail and how it will work now that she'll be living at the Morinozuka estate."

I sat down on the edge of my seat. What's going on here?

"You are most familiar with Haruhi-chan. You knew her father, understood her schedule and her lifestyle, and, most importantly, she feels comfortable with you."

He stared at me, waiting for an answer. "Yes, Sir."

"The best thing for Haruhi-chan right now is consistency. She'll be going through tremendous changes over the next days, weeks, and months. The more we do not change, the better.

"I want you to continue heading up her detail. In order for that, Yorishia and I have agreed to transfer your employ to the Morinozuka's. We'll provide you with continuing benefits and there will be an increase in salary to fit your promotion to being head of a family member's detail. You'll have input into the rest of the team and direct all her security."

They are promoting me? They want me to head her security detail? Do I deserve that?

"Eiji, we're giving you the choice. I'm asking if you'll do this for her, but if you do not wish to, you can continue your employment with the Haninozuka's, and no stigma will be attached to your decision."

They gave me a moment to decide. Stay with Miss Haruhi or not.

I turned it over and over again in my mind, coming up with the same result no matter how I looked at it. She needs me. Miss Haruhi needs me, someone she's gotten to know and understand, to run her detail.

It was the only decision to make.

"Thank you, Yorishia-sama, Akira-sama. I will continue to guard Miss Haruhi with the upmost responsibility and honor, if she allows me."

"Good choice, Eiji. I have no doubt Haruhi-chan will approve your decision. Oshiro and Ishikawa have some paperwork for you to complete, then you'll come back to the estate with Oshiro and plan her detail. While she's in the hospital, she's under guard there."

"Thank you, Akira-sama."

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xXx

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Haruhi's Patient Room:

"Mother, how is she?" I asked as soon as Mitsukuni and I walked into her room. She looked the same, pale against the sheets, monitors all over. Burns and bruises all over her.

"She's woken up once, but not for very long. She remembered me and I told her she was in the Nozuka hospital and was safe. That's it."

"Hn."

"Come sit at the table. We have much to discuss."

Mitsukuni and I sat, tea being placed in front of me while he was given cake. Aoi-san sat with us, writing in a notebook.

"First," Mother started, "Aoi and I have come up with a list of things that need to be done, although not necessarily right away." She turned to me, "Takashi, you need to contact the manager at Ranka-san's bar and let them know about Ranka-san and Jarou-san, and then decide anything you need to do about the business."

"Yes, Mother. I thought of that and was going to do that later when the manager came in."

"Good. You'll also need to contact someone at Petto Chinmi."

"Thank you for reminding me. She and Tanaki-san were going to a dog show next week. I'll call him and work that out."

"Excellent. You'd be the right person, as you're on her Board."

"Auntie, what about Haru-chan's security?"

"Eiji has agreed to continue leading her detail. His employment is being transferred to the Morinozuka's, and he's building her team. They won't need to be in place until she's ready to leave the hospital. There are enough guards here already."

Mitsukuni smiled and the flowers floated around his head. "Excellent. Haru-chan will be glad to have Eiji with her. They've gotten to know each other well."

"That was our reasoning."

At that point, another cake was brought in for Mitsukuni. This time it was strawberry shortcake, and tears welled in his eyes.

"Mitsukuni? What's wrong," Mother asked.

"I'm alright, it's just that strawberry is Haru-chan's favorite."

"We'll make sure we always have it on hand. That's actually next on the list. What are her likes and dislikes? We need to design a room for her and make sure the kitchen always has her favorites."

"Mother, Satoshi and Yasuchika should be here within a half an hour. Let's wait until they arrive so we can get their input as well. I will step out and make the calls to the bar and Petto Chinmi."

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I watched my son walk out the door, turned to Mitsukuni, and asked, "How is he doing?"

"As well as can be expected. He wants to protect her, but no one can prevent everything from happening. Takashi will feel a lot better once he can have a real conversation with her."

"She doesn't even know about her father yet."

"Who's going to tell her?"

I took a deep breath and sighed, "I will."

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xXx

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Phone call between Mori and Tanaki at Petto Chinmi:

Tanaki: "Hello, Morinozuka-sama. How can I help you?"

Mori: "Tanaki-san, are you alone right now?"

Tanaki: "Yes." Strange question.

Mori: "I recommend you sit down. I have some distressing news."

Tanaki: I sat down at my desk and said, "I'm ready."

Mori: "Friday night, Haruhi was in a car accident. She is in the hospital with several injuries. She's recovering and will be fine. Her father and his friend were in the car with her and did not survive." That was harder to say than I thought it would be.

Tanaki: "No…" I whispered. That amazing girl. "Her father died?"

Mori: "Yes, along with her father's boyfriend and the bodyguard with them at the time."

Tanaki: "She must be in shock. May I speak with her?"

Mori: "She's been unconscious since the accident, because of a concussion and medication. She doesn't know about the deaths yet."

Tanaki: My mind spun in several directions as I sat there trying to take it all in. That poor girl. She'd already lost her mother at a young age. "What do you need me to do?"

Mori: "She won't be going to the dog show next week. I know you'd already planned to attend, and I suggest you find another representative to take."

Tanaki: "Of course." Who? Who would be good for this? "I'll take Gorou-san, our new marketing manager. She needs to learn more about the business, and this is a good opportunity."

Mori: "Excellent choice. I recommend keeping Haruhi's condition quiet until she wakes up and decides what to do."

Tanaki: "Yes, I will."

Mori: "I don't know of anything else she has scheduled, but if you need me for anything, please call. Once she's awake, I'll be able to ask her opinion."

Tanaki: "Thank you, Morinozuka-sama. I'll call if I need you."

Mori: "Thank you."

Tanaki: "Can you tell me the hospital? I'd like to send flowers and come see her when she's able to have visitors."

Mori: "Nozuka Hospital. I'll let you know when she can have visitors."

Tanaki: "Thank you."

.

xXx

.

Chairman Suoh's Office, Ouran:

"What can I do for you today, Kyoya-kun?"

I'd come to see the Chairman after school had let out. Knowing the Host Club was cancelled, I hoped to not see any of them here.

"Suoh-san, I'm requesting to graduate early. The Ootori Conglomeration is taking all my time, I'm already a month ahead in my schoolwork, and graduation is in two months. I need to concentrate on my business."

I watched him consider me and the request. The school rules prohibited early graduation, but the chairman could make an exception. Would he?

"What are your future education plans?"

"I intend to go on for an accelerated BS/MBA program, but do not know where yet."

"As you said, Kyoya-kun, you graduate in two months. Your applications should already be submitted."

I smirked at him and said, "I don't believe deadlines will pose a problem for me." They won't. The Ootori name is good for admittance anywhere in the world.

My hands clenched, and I fought the urge to grab the statue on his desk and fling it across the room. Haru should be marrying me and getting accepted anywhere she wishes with her new name.

"As I'm sure you're aware, Orion does not allow for early graduation."

"Except when approved by the chairman on an individual basis."

He smiled at me, "Yes, except then."

We sat and stared at each other for a few minutes. Was he waiting for me to add anything to the request? I'd said all I needed to.

"No matter when you graduate, you'd still have to take your finals. As most of the instructors don't have theirs prepared yet, it would not be fair to ask them to just for you. Here's what I suggest. Take the next two months online. You and your instructors can work that out individually. Any tests you need to take, you'll come into school for."

Judging by his tone, that was the best I was going to be offered. Fuck. I'm still going to have to come to classes to take tests, including the finals. I want to avoid the host club members until I have a concreate plan to win Haru back.

Shit.

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman."

"You're welcome, Kyoya-kun. I'll send a memo to your instructors requesting them to work with you on this issue."

"I'll start talking to them tomorrow." I stood up and bowed, "Thank you, Mr. Chairman."

"Good evening, Kyoya-kun."

.

I suppose I should call that idiot back. Between the voice mails and the texts he sends every fifteen minutes, I'm going crazy.

I don't want to talk about Haru. I haven't figured out what to do yet.

.

Phone Call from Kyoya to Tamaki:

Tamaki: "Kyoya! We have an emergency! Haruhi, my darling Haruhi was in a car accident, and I don't know where she is. You have to help me."

Kyoya: "Tamaki, be quiet! You are giving me a headache," I snapped at him. Idiot.

Tamaki: "Sorry…"

Kyoya: "Don't be sorry. Just don't yell into the phone…ever."

Tamaki: "We have to find her! She has to be in an Ootori hospital. You should know where she is. I have to see her."

Kyoya: "She's getting the best medical care from Ootori doctors. I know where she is, but the Morinozuka's have asked me not to tell anyone. That includes you."

Tamaki: "How can you be so mean. She needs her friends. She needs us."

Kyoya: I doubt very seriously she needs me right now. "I have been directed by her guardians not to disclose her location. I will not go against them. She doesn't need her friends crowding her room and hurting her recovery. I'm sure they will let you know when you can visit."

Tamaki: "Please, Kyoya. Please."

Kyoya: "No. Now, if that's all you have, I'm walking into a meeting right now." CLICK

Tamaki: "Kyoya!"

.

xXx

.

Haruhi's Patient Room:

"I didn't realize there were so many things that had to be done after someone dies," Satoshi mumbled. I tried to keep the sadness out of my eyes as I looked at my son. This will cause him to grow up faster than I wished.

He and Chika had joined us as soon as classes were over. We were all sitting around the table going over Aoi's list of things to do.

"The wills are probably in the apartment somewhere," Takashi said.

"Do you think Haruhi-chan would mind if we looked?"

"Not if we are careful. I'm sure she doesn't want her father's things disturbed."

"We also need to go there and get her clothes, schoolbooks, and work papers. I want her to have a room to move into when she comes home that is friendly."

"Mother, you had asked what she likes. You should go to the apartment. It will give you an idea of her personality and the lifestyle she's used to."

"Excellent idea, Takashi. Would you like to come with me?"

"I'd rather stay here and watch over her."

"I'll go, Mother. I've been there before and I do own half of the complex," Satoshi grinned.

"Alright. Let's have Eiji meet us there with six maids. They can help us pack up her room."

"Not six maids. Six couldn't fit into her bedroom. I'm not sure three could. This is why I suggested you go. A firsthand look at her current residence will give you the insight you need."

"How many would you suggest," I asked Takashi.

"One. Two at most."

"And trunks?"

"One. Two at most."

"Are you saying all her clothes will fit in one trunk?"

"Yes, Mother."

"I really do need to see her apartment. Aio, you come with us instead of a maid. We'll have Eiji bring two trunks just in case."

.

xXx

.

Fujioka Apartment:

"Satoshi, I thought you said her house was small. This isn't small."

"This entire building is an apartment complex. There are twenty individual apartments in it, housing a family each. Haruhi-senpai's apartment is on the second floor, up there," Satoshi said and pointed to a door up the stairs.

Individual apartments all in one building? We have an apartment in Seoul because we travel there often. It has five bedrooms and baths, a lounge, a dining room, a game room, a gym, and several others. The apartment building is Seventy stories high, and our apartment takes up the entire sixty-seventh floor.

I had no idea they made apartments this small.

We followed Eiji up the steps, and he unlocked the door.

"This entry isn't bad. Why is there a table here?"

"This isn't the entry; this is their dining area and living space. The kitchen is through there, Haruhi-senpai's bedroom is over there, and Ranka-san's and Jarou-san's is through there."

"Oh. It is small. No wonder Takashi said we only need one maid and two trunks."

I walked into the kitchen and was surprised by the lack of counter space. There wasn't a prep sink or a dishwasher. I opened the refrigerator and called out, "Satoshi, can you come in here?"

"What's wrong, Mother?"

"There's no food here. What do they eat?"

I looked in the refrigerator and saw condiments and eggs, but no vegetables or meat. "Haruhi-senpai probably cleaned it out before going on her trip. She wouldn't want the food to spoil."

"But what would they eat when they got back?"

"Haruhi-senpai shops almost daily when certain things are on sale. She would've gone to the supermarket when they returned and cooked their meal from that."

"Every day?"

"Almost. I'm sure if it was a good sale, she might stock up for one or two more additional meals, but they would have been for the same week. She had a weekly budget and only got that each week."

While we'd been talking, I'd been opening the cupboards, taking stock of what she liked to eat. Bread, rice, tea, coffee in a jar, some spices, noodles, and not much else.

"What are these?" I asked, holding small pieces of paper.

"Coupons. She gets them from newspapers. When you buy the item it's advertising, you get money off the price. The value that's on the coupon."

"These make a difference? The amounts are so small. I can't believe 70 yen (~$0.70) is worth saving."

"Her weekly food budget is less than 5,000 yen (~$50). Those savings add up fast. She told me they can make the difference between eating a meal the last day of the week, or just rice."

Her life is so different from ours. How will she acclimate? It will be strange for her to not worry about money anymore, if she was that concerned on a daily basis.

I sighed, "What does she like to eat? I can't tell from this kitchen."

"Sushi's her favorite. When she's out with the host club, we buy her fancy tuna. It's about the only thing she lets us buy for her. She loves strawberries, plain. Not so much in a cake. She eats it that way for Mitsukuni."

"How do you know all this about her?"

"From that commoner's challenge we did last fall. We learned about her life so we could live it for a week. It was a real eye-opener."

"I'm sure it was."

Sushi and strawberries aren't much to go on. We'll learn as we go along.

"Why don't you and Eiji look in Ranka-san's room for his will. Aoi and I will start packing Haruhi-chan's room."

He nodded and went to find Eiji.

.

"These clothes are Hitachiin label. How could she afford these?" Aoi wondered.

"She's friends with the Hitachiin twins. They must give her the clothes."

"Oh."

The clothes from the closet and drawers filled one trunk. The shoes, schoolbooks, and the work papers we found filled the second one two thirds full. Good thing we brought two, but we sure didn't need a third. There are quite a bit of work papers, journals, and books here.

"When she's well, I'm going to take her shopping. All the clothes here that aren't Hitachiin label are not flattering. These undergarments…white cotton. What girl feels good in that? Pink lace and frills. That's what she needs."

"I think we have it all, Umeko-sama."

"Let's leave the trunks here for Eiji and Satoshi and look around the living area. There might be something of hers out there she'd want."

.

"I found it, Eiji-san. It's in a big envelope with 'Will' on the outside. It's sealed, so I'm not going to open it."

We'd been searching the papers in the master bedroom. Jarou-san kept all of his in boxes, but Ranka-san had a desk.

Their room was different, just like they were. Red satin sheets and a closet full of dresses. Ranka-san dressed as a female most of the time. Jarou-san's clothes took up about a fourth of the closet and a dresser. All male.

I had Jarou-san's boxes of paperwork on their bed going through them, and Satoshi took the desk.

"Good. Any other associated papers with it?"

"Let's see," he mumbled as he rummaged through the drawer. "Marriage certificate, Haruhi-senpai's birth certificate, her mother's death certificate. We won't need any of those for the will, right?"

"Correct. Any other legal documents?"

"Not that I can find."

"OK. Can you help me with these boxes?"

"Sure."

Twenty minutes later, we'd gone through all but one.

"Jarou-san kept a lot of unnecessary paperwork. Some of this is ridiculous. Restaurant receipts, old lists, pages from magazines."

I looked in the last one and there it was. Of course, it would be in the last one. "Here it is."

"Good. I was worried we wouldn't find it."

"Let's put these boxes back where we found them and see how Morinozuka-sama and Aoi-san are doing."

.

"Do we take her mother's shrine or let her come for it?" Mother asked.

"I'm not sure which is better. Maybe Takashi-sama knows. We can always come back later."

"I haven't seen a television like that in decades. I didn't know they still make them."

I smiled and said, "They don't. It's that old."

"Oh. She won't need that. There will be a new flat screen in her room."

Haruhi-senpai is going to hate this. A kitchen that she won't be expected to use. A bed instead of a futon. A TV in her bedroom. Guess she'll be turning into a 'Rich Bastard', though I'd never tell her that.

Eiji was searching the bookshelf. "There are some more journals and schoolbooks here. I'll put them in the trunk."

"We should load the trunks and get them back to the estate. We need to figure out how to decorate her bedroom. Hers here was bland."

"That's because the previous owners did not let their tenants paint the walls or change the flooring."

"Do you and Takashi allow that?"

"With preapproval. Sometimes their requests can damage the unit."

"It's definitely a different world here."

.

xXx

.

Conference Call Among Host Club Members:

Tamaki: "Please, Mori-senpai, I have to see her. I have to."

Mori: "She's been waking up more, but just for 5-10 minutes at a time. She can't have visitors now. You could affect her recovery."

Satoshi: "Yeah, Tamaki-senpai. You wouldn't want to delay her recovery because you came to see her."

Hikaru: "How likely is that? I want to see Haruhi. We're all her friends. Why should you four be the only ones to see her?"

Tamaki: "Hikaru's right. We're all her friends. We all need to be there for her."

Hikaru: "Damn, Boss. Never thought I hear you say I was right about something. You OK?"

Someone: Chuckling.

Chika: "Yes, we're all her friends, but what good will it do to sit in a room with her unconscious? It's not like she'll know you're there, and you can't talk to her."

Renge: "Chika makes a point. She's been through so much. Once she wakes up and finds out that not only her father, his boyfriend, and her guard are dead, but she's moving into the Morinozuka estate, and she's got all those injuries, she'll be lucky to form coherent thoughts. All of us there will only traumatize her more."

Tamaki: "But, Renge-chan…"

Renge: "Tamaki-kun, she'd never admit this, but she'll be as fragile as fine-spun glass, probably for longer than we all think. We must be gentle. We must let her grieve at her own pace but be there if she needs us. All of us invading her hospital room and trying to talk to her at once would be horrible."

Mori: "Agreed. She's still jumping at loud noises from the shooting. No one can push her."

Tamaki: "But I want to see her. I want to see her now!"

Satoshi: "If we send you a picture, will you let this go for another two days?"

Tamaki: "That's not good enough."

Mori: "It will have to be, because that's all you're getting."

Hikaru: "I want a guarantee we will see her in the next two days. It's not fair that you're keeping her from us."

Mori: "Life isn't fair, nor is it predictable. I can't give you that guarantee."

Chika: "We're only on this call because some of you kept sending text messages and calling us. We've explained the situation. We've told all of you showing up could set her back. If it hasn't sunk in yet, it never will. We'll let you know when she can have visitors.

Chika: Ends conference call.

.

xXx

.

Haruhi's Patient Room:

"Chika-chan, that was mean."

"Can you think of another way make Hikaru-senpai and Tamaki-senpai understand?"

"Got to agree with Chika, Mitsukuni. Wish I could hit them with my shinai," Satoshi mumbled.

"Did you really have to promise them a picture, Satoshi?"

"I was trying to make them shut up. I should have known it wouldn't work. But I promised so I'll send them one now."

My brother took a picture of Haruhi lying on her hospital bed, white as a sheet, hooked up to IVs and monitors, arm in a cast, and unconscious. The seriousness could make them realize the delicacy she needs but I predict it will backfire. After they see how bad she looks, they'll want to see her that much more.

"Who's staying with her tonight?"

"I am," I said. "Mother is sleeping at home tonight and will be here in the morning."

"Do you need me to send you some clothes for tomorrow, Bro?"

"I picked them up on my way here."

Ding

Ding

Ding

My phone started going off and kept it up. Texts from all of them demanding to see her. She doesn't look good and is she getting the right medical attention. Backfired. I knew it.

I sent out a group text:

Haruhi is getting better and has the best medical attention she can get. You cannot visit until she wants you to. I'm blocking all of you from my phone for 12 hours. Mitsukuni, Yasuchika, and Satoshi will also block you.

That won't solve anything, but at least I'll get some sleep.

.

xXx

.

Wednesday, February 9:

Morning, Haruhi's Patient Room:

"My last class ends at 2:30, Mother. I'll be back right after that."

"Don't worry about her. Keep your mind on your studies. That's what Haruhi-chan would want."

"Hn."

I watched my eldest son leave for class. He was so angry, I thought he might attack Kyoya-san. I don't see the anger in his face anymore, but I've no doubt it's simmering below the surface.

He told me Haruhi-chan woke up several times last night, but only for a short time. He didn't tell her about the accident, just that she was safe. The doctor took her off the medication, and she didn't panic, but she wasn't able to concentrate. She should be fully awake sometime today.

.

xXx

.

Ouran Drop-off Zone:

"Morning, Boss."

"You crazy doppelgangers! We must do something about Haruhi!"

"We don't know where she is."

"I have a plan. Operation 'Follow Satoshi and Chika to the hospital after school' will commence this afternoon."

"They're going to hate that," Kaoru said. "They said we could visit after she woke up and asked for us. Remember, she doesn't know her dad died in the accident yet."

"We can help tell her. Meet me here after class. We'll go in my limo."

"It's a bad idea."

"No, it's not. We'll be here, Boss."

.

xXx

.

Ootori Conglomerate, CEO Office:

"Thank you. Go back to your desk. I'm not taking calls this morning."

"Yes, Ootori-sama."

He was in yesterday and now today, working without breaks. I asked if Ouran was on holiday, but he didn't answer. It's none of my business.

There've been some strange requests also. It took me quite a while in the file room to dig up documents on mergers for the last decade.

He ordered a laptop docking station and three monitors from IT and has been checking papers and typing like crazy yesterday and today.

I have no idea what he'll ask for next, but the boxes and stacks of paperwork in his office are already taking up a good amount of space.

.

xXx

.

Haruhi's Patient Room:

Where am I? Looks like a hospital room. Why would I be here? The light is so bright.

Then it all came back to me in a flood.

"DAD!" I screamed and tried to sit up. Every part of me hurt. "AAaahahh!"

"Haruhi-chan, don't try to sit up. You'll hurt yourself."

Why is Mori-senpai's mother here?

"Mori…Morinozuka-sama?"

My throat hurts, and she raised the bed and put a straw to my lips. "Drink some water."

"Where's Dad? Is he OK? Car accident…there was a car accident…"

"Do you remember the accident?"

"Car hit us. We went off the side of the road. Where's Dad? Why isn't he here? Why are you here?"

She took my hands and started to explain.

.

"Haruhi-chan, the accident was bad. The car rolled down a ravine and crashed into a tree. You were unconscious and were pulled from the car."

"Dad?"

"I'm so sorry, darling. Your father didn't make it."

She stared at me blankly, like she didn't understand what I said. Then I watched the poor girl crumble. Anguished sobs filled the room and tears streamed down her face.

It lasted for what seemed like forever. I held her hand and rubbed her arm, trying to give comfort. She needed to let this out before she heard more.

.

Dad's gone. No..No…No…No…Not Dad. Not my daddy. No.

I couldn't stop crying. My world was gone.

.

After she cried herself out, she fell asleep. She's still so weak. It's for the best right now.

When she wakes up, I have to tell her everything else. Poor thing. Her world's gone.

.

xXx

.

Lunch, Ouran Dining Hall:

"How is she, Satoshi?" Renge-senpai asked.

"About the same, although she's waking up for longer periods."

I watched the idiot and the twins for signs of explosion. Satoshi and I can handle them, but we shouldn't have to. How is it that we're the youngest here, but are the most mature?

"We must see her!" Tamaki-senpai whined.

Satoshi glared around the table and said, "When she wants you to visit, you can visit. Not before then."

Kasanoda-senpai thankfully changed the subject, "How's the gallery, Tamaki-senpai."

We had to listen to twenty minutes of him going on, and on, and on, and on. Still better than listening to him beg to see Haruhi-senpai.

.

xXx

.

Haruhi's Patient Room:

"DAD!" Where is he?

The accident. My dad is gone.

Morinozuka-sama is holding my hand and running her fingers through my hair. "Calm down, Haruhi-chan. You're safe. Calm down."

Her eyes are so kind.

"Dad's gone?"

"Yes, sweetheart, he is. I'm so sorry."

Jarou? Matsui? "The others?"

"I'm sorry, they didn't make it either."

They're all gone? All three? "I'm going to be sick."

She held the basin while I dry-heaved.

.

This poor, sweet girl. What an extreme shock to wake up and be told your father is dead along with everyone else in the car.

I helped her sit back in the bed and helped her wipe her face with a wet cloth. Until the IVs are out of her right arm, she can't do much herself. Her left arm will be useless for a while.

Waiting for her next question, I listened to the beeping machines and her ragged breathing.

"Everything hurts."

I heard the question in the statement. "You have a concussion, a broken arm, cracked ribs on the left side, a twisted right ankle, and some cuts, bruises, and burns. The doctors realigned the arm and put the cast on. They also wrapped your chest for the ribs, cleaned and dressed the cuts and burns, and wrapped your ankle."

She pulled the covers back and looked at her chest, tentatively touching the ribs and jerking her hand away with a hiss. I saw her foot move under the covers, but she only made a slight grimace.

"What kind of cast is this?"

"That's a new technique. It's a 3D printed cast just for you. It's waterproof, so showers aren't a problem. You can even get in the pool with it. Mitsukuni thought it should be pink, but Takashi said white is better."

She sighed heavily and looked out the window for a long time. I see what Takashi meant by that faraway look in her eyes as she's thinking.

Not taking her eyes off the window, she asked, "What do I do now?"

Of course, that's when the doctor came in.

.

"How is our patient doing?" I asked as I walked in the door. I knew she was awake from the monitors at the nurses' station.

The girl didn't look over. Her eyes on the window, she didn't say a word. I walked around the bed so I could see her face. "Haruhi-sama, how much pain are you in?"

She must have been deep in thought, because it took her a minute to focus her eyes on me. "Sorry, I didn't hear you."

"How much pain are you in?"

"Everything hurts, but nothing so bad I can't stand it."

Takashi-sama spoke with me when she first came in, explaining how independent and self-sufficient she is. He said she'd downplay her pain.

"Well, it is time for another dose of your pain medication. Let's administer it and see if it takes the edge off. You'll rest better and heal faster that way."

She nodded and looked back to the window.

"I'll send a nurse in to push it in the VI."

"Doctor," she said, surprising me, "Can I get the catheter and diaper off?"

"You need to be able to get to the toilet with help before we can do that. We'll try that tonight. I'd like you to be awake a little more before then."

"Thank you," she mumbled and turned back to the view of Tokyo Bay.

"I want you to try to eat something, even if it's tea and crackers."

"I'm not hungry."

"I'll have the nurse bring some with the pain medication."

I nodded to Morinozuka-sama and left the room.

.

"Please try to eat something, Haruhi-chan. You haven't eaten anything for days."

She'd been staring out the window, but she jerked her head around. "How long have I been here."

"It's Wednesday, so five days."

"Five?"

"Yes. Please at least drink your tea." I held the cup and she drank some, but it didn't seem like she was aware of it.

"What do I do now, Morinozuka-sama?" Her eyes showed desperation. "What happens next?"

"Whatever happens, we'll face it together." I continued to explain to calm her look of confusion. "Ranka-san asked us to be your guardians. We'll help you through this and take care of you."

.

Dad…guardianship. Dad gave them custody? That doesn't make any sense. "When?"

She explained that eighteen months ago, when we were staying at their house during all that mess with Kyoya-senpai's father, Dad asked them to be my guardians, and they agreed.

It still didn't make any sense. "Why? I don't understand."

Fingers carded through my hair, reminding me of my mother. I couldn't stop the tears.

"Don't worry, Haruhi-chan. You've been through a traumatic experience and have huge things to work through. You don't have to understand everything right away. We'll be here for whatever you need."

Dad died, and I'm with the Morinozuka's. There's too much to think about. I don't know what to do.

"What happens next?" I cringed at my voice. Who is the three-year-old talking?

"Next, we focus on you getting better. You need to eat something and rest. Later tonight we'll try to get you out of the bed."

"Not hungry. I'm very tired." I turned back to the window and fell asleep.

.

xXx

.

Ouran Pick Up Zone:

"There they are. Satoshi and Chika are getting into that limo." Tamaki-senpai looked at us, and said, "As soon as they pull away, we'll run to my limo. I've already told the driver he's to follow them."

"Yes, Boss. We'll find Haruhi."

This is a terrible idea. We all want to see her, but when she wants us to see her. I can't stop either of them. Hika isn't listening to me anymore.

"Tamaki-kun, we can't do this."

"We have to, Renge-chan. We're her friends. She needs us."

No, she doesn't. Not right now. Renge and I agreed to go with Tamaki-senpai and Hika. There might be a miracle, and we can control or stop them. Too bad it's not our limo. I could have the driver fake a breakdown.

.

xXx

.

Ootori Conglomeration CEO Office:

"Sakuno, please join me in my father's records room."

I followed Ootori-sama down to the next floor. He hadn't asked to see many of those files, so they were archived there. Rather than records of previous mergers like I provided earlier in the week, these were his father's personal files.

He entered the code that only the two of us know and walked in. "I want to find out what's down here and then you can supervise some interns in pulling and delivering what I want."

I kept a list as he read them off. "His future plans files, drafts for new 10-year plan, anything about the family and their relationship to the corporation." That's several boxes right there.

"All files from the safe. Handle those yourself, no interns."

"Yes, Ootori-sama."

"Any box marked with an asterisk. Don't open them, just bring the entire box."

"When all of them are loaded on carts and ready to be delivered, let me know. They'll be dropping off the carts in my office, and I'll be moving them to my private office. That's where they're all going."

His private office? I've never even seen it. It's locked by a ten-digit code that changes weekly. He escorts his personal maid in once a week to clean. The door is situated so no part of the room is visible if it's open.

Ootori-sama values his privacy.

.

Now that I'm not spending my days at Ouran, I have time to dig into my father's files. It should have been done months ago, but between Haruhi and focusing on turning the company around, I didn't have the time to dedicate.

What deals did he have on the horizon? Did he even have ideas to save the company? If he did, I'll bet they won't work, but I need to know.

What were his plans for the family?

.

xXx

.

Haruhi's Patient Room:

"Takashi, how is she?" I asked as I came into the room. His classes end earlier than mine on Wednesdays, so he's been here a while.

"She's been awake several times. Mother was able to tell her about her father, Jarou-san, and Matsui, and the guardianship. She's been asleep since then, about two hours."

"Where is Auntie?"

"Taking a break and talking with the doctor. They're hoping to get her walking tonight."

I looked her sleeping in the hospital bed. It practically swallowed her up. "Seems soon."

"She can't leave the hospital until she can use the restroom on her own. The sooner that happens, the sooner she can come back to the estate."

I held Usa-chan close and waited for her to wake up.

.

Chika and Satoshi should be here soon. If Haruhi's staying awake tomorrow like today, the rest can probably visit.

"HHmmmm," I heard her moan as her eyes opened. Huge eyes filled with pain and heartache.

"Haruhi, I'm here. You're safe."

"Yeah, Haru-chan. We're watching over you."

"Honey-senpai, Mori-senpai." She looked at me and asked, "Where's your mother?"

"Taking to the doctor and getting a cup of coffee. Do you need me to go get her?"

Her heavy stare held my eyes for at least a minute. What was she thinking?

"No, as long as she's coming back."

"Any minute, Haruhi," I said as I squeezed her hand.

When her eyes landed on the glass on the bedside table, I gave her a sip of water. "Thank you."

"You're welcome, Haruhi. Just ask and I'll always help you."

Just then, Satoshi rushed into the room and over to me. "Those idiots followed us here. Chika's keeping them downstairs."

"Which idiots?" Haruhi asked. Chika wasn't quiet enough.

"Tamaki-senpai, Renge-senpai, and the twins."

I squeezed her hand and asked if she wanted to see them. If she didn't, I'd have them banned from the hospital until she did.

She thought for several minutes as she stared out the window.

"Haru-chan, you don't have to see them. It's up to you."

With a big sigh, she said, "Might as well, but I'm very tired."

I made the final decision. "Here's what we'll do. Satoshi go back down and escort them up with Chika. Bring them to the waiting room on this floor. We'll all talk to them first. If they will behave, they can come in in two groups. I'll call Kasanoda and tell him if he wants to visit, he can."

"You got it, Bro."

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Mori-senpai walked into the waiting room and glared at us.

"We want to see her, Mori-senpai," I said, trying not to be intimidated by his stare. I squeezed Renge's hand.

"Haruhi has agreed to let you visit for a short time. She found out about her father and the guardianship today. She's still reeling from that information. You must be careful, quiet, and slow with her. Tamaki and Renge can visit first for no more than ten minutes. Then Hikaru and Kaoru. She can't handle you all at once. Kasanoda is also on his way. He'll see her last."

"Thank you, Mori-senpai," Renge-chan said as we stood up.

"If you do not follow the rules, you will not see her again for a week."

.

I held Tamaki-kun's hand as we walked into Haruhi's room. He immediately called her name and tried to rush the bed. I pulled him back and said, "Be quiet. She's got a concussion and I'm sure a headache."

He switched to the loudest stage whisper I've ever heard. "Haruhi, my darling friend, it's good to see you."

Her eyes looked dead. She turned to us and mumbled, "You don't have to whisper, Tamaki-senpai. Just talk softly."

He took her hand and kissed her knuckles. "I'm so sorry about everything, my darling. Know that I'm here for you no matter what you need. You just have to ask."

"Thank you," she said so quietly I had to strain to hear her.

I smiled and tried a different approach. "I've been taking detailed notes for you, so you don't have to rely on Hikaru's messy handwriting."

Her eyes tracked up to mine. "Thank you, Renge."

We sat there for a few minutes, Tamaki-kun holding her hand, and me combing her hair with my fingers.

I finally broke the silence. "I'm glad to hear that all your injuries will heal and there shouldn't be any lasting problems."

"Mmm," she answered, like she hadn't heard what I'd said.

Mori-senpai cleared his throat, and we stood to leave. "Let us know if you need anything, Haruhi, no matter what it is."

"Thank you, Tamaki-senpai, Renge." She paused and looked us in the eyes. "Thank you for coming."

"You're welcome," we answered and left the room.

As soon as we were down the hall, I threw myself into Tamaki-kun's arms and gave him a tremendous hug. "You did so well. I'm so proud of you."

He gave me a quick kiss and said, "I couldn't have done that without you there, Renge-chan."

"Let's go get some dinner and talk."

"Good idea."

.

The twins were clinging to each other for support when I led them into Haruhi's room. One look and Hikaru started crying.

"I'm so sorry this happened, Haruhi. I'm so sorry." He'd dropped to his knees by her side and was holding her hand.

Kaoru stepped up and put his hand on her shoulder. "We're both sorry, Haruhi. Please know that we're here to help you with anything you need."

"Thank you."

Leave it to Hikaru to say, "That hospital gown is frumpy. Do you want us to bring you a beautiful robe? You should look your best even in the hospital."

A ghost of a smile passed over her lips as she answered, "That'd be nice. Thank you."

They sat for a while and told her about funny things that'd happened in class. The class president trying to ask a girl out. The teacher mixing up the handouts – because of them. And other random things.

When I stood up, Kaoru got the hint and pulled on Hikaru's arm.

"We're going to go now. You need your beauty sleep." With a kiss on the cheek, they left.

.

"Hey, Haruhi. I brought you something." I handed her an iPad.

"Why?"

"Here, touch this icon and watch the video."

She did and my koi pond popped up on the screen. "It's fifteen minutes of the fish swimming around. I know you like to watch them to relax."

"Thank you, Ritsu."

"It can also get Wi-Fi, so you can surf if you want to. Do you want me to set that up?"

"Maybe another day. I'm very tired."

"I also brought these," I said as I pulled a small container out of my bag. "Fresh strawberries. Thought you might like your favorite."

"I'm not hungry, but thanks."

"There has to be a fridge around here. They'll be waiting for you when you want them."

"Thanks."

I held the iPad for her while she watched the video. After a couple minutes, her eyes glazed over, and she fell asleep.

.

xXx

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Author's Note:

Extra-long chapter (11k words), you're welcome.

So, they 'rescue' her from Kyoya. What will he do next?

Haruhi finds out about her dad and the guardianship. Will it work out? Will she adjust to the estate?

And, finally a visit from the idiots. I think we're all proud of Tamaki.

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Next Chapter:

Haruhi goes home. The HC comes for another visit. What do the wills say? What about the funeral?

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