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'

17. Chapter 17 - Screams and Tears

Author's Note: Welcome back! Thanks for all the reviews, favs, and follows. Here we go…

Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will.

.

xXx

.

Date Posted: 12/28/2019

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Next Phase - Chapter 17: Screams and Tears

.

Wednesday, February 16:

Ouran Dining Hall:

Today was just as bad as I thought it would be.

Eimi and I still don't have a good system for baths or showers. The cast can get wet, but my ribs are still taped up and at lot of the bigger cuts and burns have bandages still.

I'm grateful the twins altered the uniform for me. The elastic waistband in the pants and the Velcro on the arm make it easy to take on and off.

If only everything was easy.

When I woke up, a new school bag was on my desk. An official Ouran leather satchel. I obviously didn't have the official one before, but the one I did have burned up in the crash. So, instead of getting another one like I had, I'm now carrying around one that probably cost a month's rent.

It's too much, too soon. I'll never get used to all this.

Chika and Satoshi rode with me in my wheelchair van, and an SUV with more security followed us.

This morning I had to listen to more 'I'm sorry's and 'I've been thinking of you's than I had to at the funeral.

If I could stand up on my desk and scream, 'I don't want to talk about it!', I would. I have to keep reminding myself that they care, and they don't know another way to express it.

Satoshi pushed me to homeroom, and then the twins took over that duty. Renge helped me in the restroom (how embarrassing), and now Kaoru's wheeling me to lunch.

LUNCH!

"Stop!"

"Haruhi, what's wrong?"

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Eiji looking around for the threat.

"I don't have my lunch." I don't have a bento. How would I have packed it? I should have asked one of the assistant cooks to make me one. I can't even make my own food anymore.

"What's wrong," Satoshi asked as he came up to us.

"I don't have my lunch," I said again. "What am I going to eat?"

"You're going to buy lunch. You have an account set up," he said as he took over pushing me to the line.

"Wait. An account?"

"Yep. Dad set it up with the school. It's under Fujioka. You'll buy your lunch just like everyone else. I'll show you."

We got up to the line and the choices these rich bastards have. Duck, steak, pasta, and a bunch of things I don't even recognize. What the hell?

"Satoshi, I have no idea what to get."

"I'll order yours."

"Keep it as simple as you can."

"Sure."

Ritsu pushed me to our table and went back for his lunch.

"One more thing," I mumbled. One more thing to remind me how much my life has changed. How different it is now and how it will never go back.

It's like I'm on the ocean being tossed this way and that, with no control over my direction or when I'm pulled under. The guys keep throwing me ropes and life preservers, but as soon as they are about to pull me in the boat, I'm swept away again.

Everyone's looking at me. The poor commoner who lost her parents. The orphan. And now, just like a fairy tale, I'm moved to the castle on the hill. Do those stories ever turn out well?

.

She didn't put up near as much of a protest as we thought she would.

"Here you go, Haruhi-senpai. Mushroom ravioli and a garden salad."

"Thanks, Satoshi. That will work. There's nothing to cut, so I can eat with one hand."

We all watched as she picked at it while listening to our random conversations.

"What are we doing for Host Club today, Boss?"

"We were going to dress up as cupid and give all the princesses roses and candy, but I think a quieter club is in order. We'll welcome Haruhi back to the club and host as usual."

She nodded in agreement with Tamaki-senpai. I'm sure the last thing she wants to do is dress up in some stupid costume and try to host a bunch of guys.

"Haruhi, you'll be hosting with Mori-senpai and Honey-senpai, if that's alright with you."

"Thank you, Tamaki-senpai. That's fine."

She finally quit picking at her salad and took a bite of ravioli.

"Mmmmm" we heard, and all turned to her and watched her eat. I'll tell mother she likes Italian.

.

xXx

.

Host Club:

"Welcome!"

"Oh, Haruhi, I'm so sorry."

"Please accept my sympathy."

All the girls coming in went straight to Haruhi-senpai. Having her host with Takashi and Mitsukuni was a good idea.

Being in charge of logistics, I tried to steer them to their regular hosts after they said a few things to Haruhi-senpai. Tamaki-senpai helps, and his over the top antics actually worked.

"Satoshi," Tamaki-senpai said to me, "keep them moving. I know they all want to say something, but I've set up a box where they can leave cards if they wish."

I looked over to the indicated pedestal and saw an ornate silver card box, one used in weddings and funerals. Haruhi-senpai is going to hate it.

.

Mitsukuni and I ran interference for Haruhi while hosting with her. Our regular guests, along with her regular male guests, sat with us and also helped move others along.

I can tell she hates the attention. She always has.

"Haruhi-chan, I wanted to give you this," she handed her a card. "It's the acknowledgement of my donation to 'Digital Citizens' in honor of your father."

Haruhi reached out and gently took the envelope from her hand. "Thank you very much. I know my father appreciates it."

"I was glad to do it. What a wonderful idea to give to a charity instead of sending flowers that won't last."

Haruhi nodded and gave the guest a small smile.

During the course of the club, she was handed several such cards and always smiled and thanked the giver. She's our natural host even when she doesn't want to be here.

"Takashi, she's falling asleep," Mitsukuni whispered to me. "Can you put her where I take naps. They should leave her alone there."

"Hn."

I gently pushed the chair over to the daybed and placed her on it, covering her with a pink, Usa-chan blanket.

I'm surprised she lasted this long.

.

After all the guests left, we sat around the main table. "She's had a long day; I hate to wake her up."

"Me too, Hika. Can we wait a little while?"

Satoshi spoke up, "I don't see why not. We're not having a meeting today, but we can study until she wakes up then head to our estate for dinner."

We'd agreed we wouldn't go to the diner until she's out of the wheelchair, so dinner is at Mori-senpai and Satoshi's place.

"Will she be up for it?"

"We'll see when she wakes up."

"Tamaki how long will the card box be available," Mori-senpai asked.

"As long as needed. I figured through the end of this week."

"We have a similar box at home waiting. I'm not sure she's ready to go through them."

"Whenever she is, we'll give them to her."

.

Morinozuka Dining Room:

When Satoshi asked about hosting the club for dinner tonight, I thought it was a great idea. Taking Haruhi-chan to the diner was out of the question while in her wheelchair. It's a security issue.

Akira and I joined them for the meal, planning to leave before dessert to give them time to themselves.

This was the first time we've met Cho-chan, Mitsukuni's girlfriend. She's sweet and matches his personality perfectly.

"You don't need to tell her, Renge-chan."

"I do. She shouldn't find out some other way."

"Tamaki-senpai, Renge, what are you talking about? I'm sitting right here," Haruhi-chan interrupted. She has a point. It's rude to talk about someone as if they aren't there.

Tamaki took her hand trying to stop her, but Renge went ahead. "There was a rumor going around about you and Mori-senpai. Something about how now that you're living here, you're staying in his room with him."

Do all teenagers have such dirty minds? How dare they think that about Haruhi-chan and my son.

"That's stupid," Haruhi-chan huffed and rolled her eyes. "Don't the students at Ouran have anything better to do?"

"Not really. I put a stop to it right away, but I didn't want you to be blindsided if you heard something like it."

"Whatever. The rumors teenagers can come up with are crazy. Remember all of them when I was outed as a girl? Ridiculous. We got through those. We'll get through these."

She's got a thick skin. Growing up without a mother and being raised by a transvestite father gave her one the hard way.

Yasuchika clinked his spoon on his glass to get everyone's attention. "I'll be going to a world cup this weekend, leaving Thursday night and returning with a gold medal on Sunday."

I'm not sure which twin said, "Go get 'em Satoshi! Kick ass." Not the nicest way to put it, but I'll not correct a guest in my house.

.

Akira-san and Umeko-san left before dessert, and we moved to the lounge. Why do these rich bastards have to move to a different room for dessert? It's much easier to eat on a table rather than balancing a plate on your lap. Especially, if you only have one working hand.

Doesn't matter. I don't want dessert anyway. I feel sick just thinking about all that sugar.

Today had been long and challenging, so I sat in a daze while the rest of them talked about I have no idea what.

I need to be alone more. The energy it takes to be present when other people are around is more than I have to give.

.

I watched Haruhi-san zone out as the rest of them talked about random shit. It's fun to be a part of this group, but Asshole and I are the odd ones out.

Me losing my brother and her losing her father don't really compare, but they don't have to for me to understand what she's going through.

I watched him get shot and die in front of me. I was only eight, and then, all of a sudden, I was the heir to the Himura Syndicate. At eight fucking years old.

Not a day goes by that I don't think about him, that I don't miss him. Mom and Dad turned his room into a shrine. I still talk to him sometimes.

"Hey?" Ritsu whispered in my ear.

"What?"

"When we're done here, I'll call my car and drive you home."

"OK, Ritsu. Thanks."

Could he tell I needed someone to talk to?

.

As everyone was leaving, I asked Haruhi if I could talk with her and the Morinozuka's, and probably Eiji.

"Sure, Kaoru. Is everything OK?"

"Yeah, nothing's wrong. Just have a couple questions."

Hika stayed in the lounge with us as Mori-senpai went to get his parents.

When everyone was assembled, I pulled out my i-Pad and handed it to Haruhi. "These are the pictures for the print ads. Do you still want them published?"

It was clear the Morinozuka's had no idea what I was talking about, so I went through it with them, discussing the line, the ads, the donations we'd be making, and the charities in the ads.

"After everything that's happened, I needed to check before these were published. Unfortunately, I need to know soon. If you want to bow out from being the model, I need time to find someone else and do another shoot."

Haruhi swiped through the pictures while the rest of us discussed the security and publicity issues.

"I'm not sure it's best for Haruhi-chan to be pushed out into the public eye right now."

"I understand. The ads are to be published at the end of February in a small number of fashion magazines. As the end of spring arrives, we'll be building up for a full fashion show. There will be more print ads then. Those will be widespread: Internet, newspapers, magazines, and I'll be doing some talk shows about the line."

"That's a lot of publicity for a high school girl," Mori-senpai's father said.

"It is." I took a deep breath and continued, "I do have a signed contract agreeing to all this. My lawyer assures me that Ranka's signature will hold. But I don't want to publish unless you and Haruhi agree. I'll tear it up if she says no."

We all looked over at Haruhi as she continued to swipe through the pictures.

.

These are good. Kaoru knows what he's doing with business clothes, and the sets that he used in the pictures show a wide range. I look powerful in his clothes. They're perfect for board meetings and court.

But do I want them out in public? My contract states that Kaoru won't use my name and will never name me in the press. Is that enough anonymity?

I could hear Akira-san, Umeko-san, and Eiji quietly discussing these ads.

"Will her current security detail be enough?"

"I'll want to add a few more for public events."

"What about drawing unnecessary attention to the Morinozuka name?"

"Akira, we are her guardians, but not her parents. She's her own person and should make her own decisions. Plus, there's nothing scandalous about these pictures. If anything, they will provide good press."

But what do I want to do? Then I remembered what Dad said…Mom would be proud of me, not because I was a model, but because of the donations, the charities, and the commoners being hired for the line. Dad said he was proud of me too.

I stared at my favorite picture. I'm in a gray suit with white pin stripes. The silk blouse is black and there's a red scarf instead of a tie. The red shoes are kitten heals that were easy to walk in. I'm standing at the head of the table giving a presentation to a room full of men. On the wall is an amazing pencil drawing from one of the girls involved in 'Living Dreams'.

It's everything I want to support.

Then it struck me, like a lightbulb above my head. The picture frame Dad was going to give me! I'm sure it was for one of these pictures. He wanted to hang it in the living room. He was so proud.

"I'll do it," I said, raising my head up and looking around the room.

"What did you say, Haruhi-chan?"

"I'll do it. Kaoru let's publish the ads. Dad wanted this. He was so proud of the charity tie-ins and the commoner's that would be hired. He told me Mom would be proud of it too."

I looked over at Mori-senpai and could feel the tear run down my cheek. "That's why he was giving me a picture frame for my birthday. He wanted to frame one of these pictures and hang it in the living room."

I turned back to the Morinozuka's. "I want to do it for the reasons I agreed in the first place, and I want to do it for Mom and Dad."

Akira-san and Umeko-san looked at each other and had that silent conversation couples do.

"We'll support you in every way we can, Haruhi-chan." She turned to Kaoru, "Please keep us informed of all the dates."

"I'll link your assistant into the calendar." He stood up and bowed to the Morinozuka's. "Thank you."

.

xXx

.

Kasanoda SUV:

"You OK? You drifted off during dessert and looked sad."

I leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Thanks, Ritsu." I put my head on his shoulder and said, "I was thinking of my brother. I've been thinking more about him since Haruhi-san's father was killed."

"Not surprised. Been thinking about Mom more too."

We sat there for a few minutes, then he asked, "Wanna talk about it?"

"Not really. Just hold me."

And he pulled me onto his lap and wrapped his arms tightly around me, giving me a kiss on the cheek.

.

xXx

.

Morinozuka Estate, Akira's Office:

Umeko, Eiji, and I moved to my office after the twins left. We need to discuss any issues these pictures will cause.

"Are you sure this was a good idea, Umeko? I understand why you want to allow it, but I'm concerned about the repercussions."

"I think they'll be minimal. Eiji, what about security."

"As I said, I'll want to add a few more guards to the main force for public events. Other than that, I won't know until I can gauge public reaction and how recognizable she becomes."

"Alright. What about our reputation? I'm not sure I agree with your assessment, Umeko."

My wife suppressed a sigh and I could tell she wanted to roll her eyes but would never do that with someone else in the room.

"What negative impact would they have?"

I thought for a few minutes and realized I'd been caught out.

"I can't think of anything off the top of my head, but there could be something we haven't thought of."

"I see…" she said with that sarcastic lilt to her voice that told me she won the point. "We don't have to worry about it. I would never use Haruhi-chan, but, by default, these ads will enhance our reputation. Commoners have something to relate to in an elite house, and the philanthropy aspect will make it more acceptable to the other elite houses. But this is her choice. Her father approved it, so I'm hard pressed to find a reason to say no. She's seventeen, she can make the decision for herself."

Without a cogent argument against, I capitulated.

"Alright, she can do it. We need copies of every ad and where it was published."

"That won't be a problem. Aoi will work with Kaoru for that."

.

xXx

.

Himura Compound:

"Night, Asshole. Thanks for the ride."

"Anytime."

He'd stepped out first then helped me.

Then he asked, "Hey, are you free on Saturday?"

"No, I'm expensive."

"Nice one…Seriously, we're going out. Dress in warm, active stuff. I'll pick you up around two."

"I'm I going to like this?"

"Oh, yeah."

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Koi Pond:

I need time to myself more than anything, but when I'm alone, I can't stop thinking. I picture me buying that car and how happy Dad was when we drove it off the lot. How we all packed it with way too much stuff for a weekend trip, and Jarou sitting on the trunk to get it to close. I remember the drive through Tokyo, looking out at all the buildings as we passed, listening to Dad talking about how the car handles.

Then I remember the crash. The car sideswiped us and then again. Flying through the guardrail and then nothing.

I can't think about that night without the guilt hammering down on me. The whole thing would never have happened if it wasn't my birthday. Dad wanted to do something special for me. He wanted to take me out of town and have 'family time', and I ruined it. I bought him that stupid car, and he died. Not just him, Jarou and Matsui too.

I'm responsible for three lives ending way too soon.

.

Takashi and Satoshi are asleep, and the alien is having cake night. I couldn't sleep, so I took a walk in the indoor garden.

I found Haruhi-senpai sitting at the koi pond. It's her favorite place in the mansion. I'm not surprised. The fish are calming the way they glide through the water making their own patterns. Between the fish and the sound of the small waterfall, it's hypnotic here. Add in the aroma of all the flowers, and it becomes a perfect hideaway.

Sitting in her wheelchair, she's staring at the fish and petting that stuffed dog Tamaki-senpai gave her. I thought it was a joke, but she wound up liking it.

Then I saw the tears running down her cheeks.

.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Chika walk up and sit down on the bench next to me.

He didn't say a word, just sat there, and I felt a little better.

.

xXx

.

Thursday, February 17:

Host Club:

"Here you go, Haruhi. We'll come get you when club is over."

"Thanks, Kaoru."

And then the door shut, and I was alone in the room Kyoya built for us.

I didn't want to go to the Morinozuka's alone, so I'm studying here until club is over and can leave with Satoshi and Chika.

Today had been horrible. People still saying they were sorry. Paying a crazy amount of money for lunch. Relying on someone to push me everywhere I need to go. Desperately trying to concentrate on my schoolwork, but constantly having to drag my mind back from my dad.

And now this room. Kyoya had this built so we could spend time together without anyone knowing.

Looking around, I was flooded with memories. Over there on the loveseat, I sat on his lap and he kissed me until I couldn't breathe. We sat at that table eating sushi and talking about our futures. After we were caught in that huge storm, he washed my hair for me in that sink. We fell asleep on that couch together.

I see him everywhere.

He kidnapped me. After everything he did to me. After the contract, the proposal, the pictures, the debt, the ball, the blackmail, after everything he thought he still had a chance.

What was he thinking? That I'd wake up, look into those deep, dark eyes of his, see that smirk he's famous for, and forgive everything he's ever done to me? That I'd tell him I love him and desperately want to be his wife? He's even more delusional that I thought he was.

I've tried not to think about it since they told me. Tried so hard it hurt. How dare he do that? How dare he keep me from my friends? His sense of entitlement knows no bounds. What's next? I don't even want to guess.

I can't think about this. I have homework to do.

I picked up my pen, my hands started trembling, and I couldn't make them write. I was underwater again, with cotton in my ears and the saltwater burning my eyes. There are no life preservers here. Only waves as high as buildings and undercurrents strong as earthquakes.

Then I was screaming. Long, loud screams that felt good at first. Frustration and anger…I tried to get rid of them through the screams. It didn't work.

Next thing I know, I'm yelling. I'm yelling at no one and the world.

"It's not fair!"

"I want my dad back!"

I picked up the glass of water in front of me and hurled it into a wall.

"The only reason Jarou is dead is because he loved my dad!"

My English book was next.

"Kyoya you bastard!"

There had to be something else to throw. I want to see it shatter against the wall.

I tried to roll over to the end table and that lamp, but I couldn't. I can't even move without depending on someone.

"FUCK!" I fell out of the chair, and fire shot through my ribs.

My chest was heaving and sobs that burned my ribs and throat were coming and coming.

I can't move. I could barely mumble through the pain.

"I'm sorry daddy. I'm so sorry. All you ever wanted was me to be happy, and I ruined it."

I tried to reach the pillow on the sofa.

"Jarou, I wanted to be your friend. We were finally starting to find our places in each other's lives. And then I killed you for no other reason than you loved my dad."

I can't reach the stupid pillow.

"You were only doing your job, Matsui. We would have never met if I hadn't broken that stupid vase. You'd be here if I wasn't friends with those rich bastards."

I can't do anything for myself.

"Whoever you are, you'll regret running us off the road. Were you after me? Did we both kill everyone together? Why? Why would you want me dead? I'm just a commoner. There's nothing special about me."

The screaming started again.

Beating my good fist against the floor and screaming. That's how Kaoru found me.

.

All the guests and girlfriends were gone, and I opened the door to get Haruhi. Instantly, the room was filled with her screams and sobs.

"What the fuck?" Hika yelled.

We all ran into the room and found her on the floor. She'd fallen out of her wheelchair and was a mess.

"Haruhi!"

That's when she realized we were here. She looked around and pointed at Kasanoda. "YOU!" she barked with the sound of stone on steel. "You find that Son of a Bitch that ran us off the road! You find that bastard that helped me kill my dad and Jarou and Matsui."

She dissolved back into sobs, angry and painful.

I ran over and helped her sit up with her back to me. That broke everyone's trance. Tamaki-senpai sat next to me, rubbing her shoulder. Hika laid down next to her, his head on my thigh, and wrapped his arm around her waist.

Kasanoda knelt down at her feet and mumbled, "Don't worry, Haruhi. We'll get him."

Satoshi and Chika looked out of their depth but came over and squeezed in where they could.

A long silent hug followed. The only thing we could hear were her sobs and mumbles.

"All my fault."

"Dead because of me."

"Why would someone want to kill me?"

.

"My poor, darling friend. What can I do to help you? It's not your fault. It's not even a grain of sand's worth of your fault."

I started playing with her hair and humming. It didn't seem to work.

.

I don't understand. She's always been the strength of the Host Club. After I attacked her and went to the looney bin, she was there for me. She forgave me and helped me get better. I learned to see her as the sister I never had and depended on her for my recovery.

How can she think this was all her fault?

"It's no one's fault but that asshole who hit you."

I continued to hold her as tight as I could without hurting her ribs.

.

My chest hurt, and I couldn't stop a few tears of my own as I listened to Haruhi-senpai blame herself. She's a part of my family now, and I have to help her through this. She's so tiny and fragile, but I always saw her as larger than life. She wore her strength and courage like armor and would bring great honor to the Morinozuka name if my parents were adopting her.

"Haruhi-senpai, we all love you. Please don't blame yourself."

.

I'm not surprised she finally blew up. She's been so quiet, especially last night at the koi pond.

When under that much stress and guilt, a person can't hold it in forever. It can't be buried and forgotten. She needed this.

"Let it all out, Haruhi-senpai."

.

I'll get that fucker for her. I'll get him, and no one will ever find the body. I know Shinobu will help. She'll demand to. Then we'll go after the motherfucker that hired him. The boss never does the dirty work. No one will ever find him either.

But I know from experience, that it won't help. Yeah, you'll never see them again and the threat's gone, but it doesn't take away the pain.

"I'll find him for you Haruhi. I'll track him down. But you realize, it won't help much."

.

Why can't there be an easy fix for this? My life is in limbo as I drift through the water.

I remember what my dad said. 'Life isn't supposed to be easy. You have to work for what you want and then enjoy it'.

"I know, Ritsu."

I sniffed and wiped the tears away. "I don't know what I do without you guys."

.

xXx

.

Morinozuka Main Lounge:

"Where is she?"

"Eimi took her upstairs. She wanted a hot bath."

"Poor, darling girl. Maybe I should talk to her?"

"I'm not sure, Mother. I think she needs her rest more than anything."

.

xXx

.

Late Night, Ootori CEO Office:

"Fuck. Most of these marriage contracts are worthless. Why would these idiots think they have something to offer the head of the Ootori Conglomeration? They aren't even good enough for my brothers."

I watched Kyoya-sama from the chair in the corner. There's enough security in the building that he didn't refuse me when I asked to stay. I don't want another night like last week. I've never seen him that drunk or depressed…that's not the right word…beaten, that's it.

He was beaten by his own game, and lost Haruhi-sama in the process.

His shoulders were hunched as he walked to the window to look over Tokyo. We're so high, he can see the harbor from here.

I wouldn't say he was at peace, but something's settled over him since the funeral. He hasn't screamed her name at night nor moped around his apartment. Nothing's been smashed on the floor or shattered against the wall. If anything, he's working harder than ever, constantly typing, on the phone, or in a meeting. I've had to remind him to eat.

There's an Ootori vacation home in Hawaii, and he should think about leaving for a bit. Maybe after graduation I can talk him into a couple weeks with his sister and nephew. They are the only people he can stand lately.

"Shit. This is ridiculous. I'll never find wives for those idiots. This pile is too good for them and these I wouldn't even pair with Tamaki's dog."

"Perhaps stepping back from the problem for a short while will help," I suggested.

He jumped at my voice, forgetting I was even here. Running his hands through his hair he admitted, "I'm being too selective. I don't want them with someone good, but I don't want them with someone who won't help the company and family. Right now, all these girls who would help the company look too good for my older brothers," he spit out.

"Your wish to grind your brothers into the ground sounds like your father, Kyoya-sama." I braced myself for the violent reaction. I was surprised.

"I know," he mumbled, dumping a stack of files onto a chair. "I know, but it's all I know."

"Not, it's not. You were a different person when you were best friends with Suoh-sama." Probably shouldn't have brought him up.

"And now we're not friends. The Host Club members were the only ones who saw me as Kyoya and not as Ootori, and I've fucked up so much, they'll never be in my life again.

I stood and walked over to him. "Maybe not, but you can be that person again. You haven't lost him; you've just buried him under familiar behavior." My hand braced his shoulder, and I said, "You can be who you want to be. Now, tell me, do you want to be your father?"

He shrugged my arm off and snapped, "There is no Ootori Kyoya anymore, Tachibana, just Yoshio. He pounded, forced, whipped, and cut me to fit his mold, and killed anything uniquely Kyoya while he was doing it. I've lost the one person who could make me whole. She'll never speak to me again."

Turning to the bar, he sighed, "I need a drink. Leave me alone. Don't talk to me."

.

xXx

.

Friday, February 18:

Breakfast, Morinozuka Dining Room:

"Yasuchika, do you have all your assignments?"

"Yes, Aunt. All my schoolwork, competition gear, and security and medical. I need to get to the airport."

"Good luck. We'll be watching on the competition website."

"Thanks!" Chika called as he ran out the door.

"Your next competition is next weekend, right Satoshi?"

"Yes, Mother," I answered, then kicked Taka under the table, "We're going to kick some ass and bring back silver and gold!"

"Satoshi! You know better than to use that language!"

"Sorry, Mother." Kasanoda-senpai and Hikaru-senpai are really rubbing off on me. I have to be more careful.

I glanced over at Haruhi-senpai and saw a small smile. They're rarer than decent Ootori's, and I'm glad to see one. Especially after yesterday.

.

xXx

.

Lunch at the Diner:

"Are you sure about this? Tanaki-san did offer to come to the school dining hall."

"The three of us, four including Eiji, can eat here for less than a third of one meal at Ouran. Petto Chinmi isn't made of money, Satoshi."

"Never thought of it that way."

"MMmm," she hummed as I pushed her to join Tanaki-san at the table.

He stood and bowed, "Fujioka-sama, I could have come to you at school."

"I know, but I needed some fresh air, and Satoshi needed some exercise." She gestured for the two of us to sit.

"Ha, ha," I scoffed.

After we ordered, he handed her a bag full of paperwork. "These are the current department reports, including the latest accounting expenditures. I've also included new journals, and an English business book specializing in the pet business that I didn't think you'd seen."

"Thank you, Tanaki-san. Is there anything worrying in the reports?"

"No, research and marketing are going as planned. We've seen a boost in sales on the web from the dog show. Gorou-san is working with the managers of the national show. We'll have a large presence there."

"Wonderful," she said, but her voice was flat. "We should find at least two more before the national show and sponsor them. Can Gorou-san do that?"

"Of course. Will you want to go to those?"

"Yes, as long as I'm out of this ridiculous wheelchair."

.

"It wasn't that bad, was it, Satoshi?"

"No. I hadn't had a burger in a while," he smiled back. I think he's playing with me.

"Don't worry. Next time I'll have Eiji drive me. You can stay behind and have that rich bastard's lunch."

"It's your lunch now too, you know."

Yeah, it is. I'm now in the rich bastard's world. It's like being a fish on the moon.

"Whatever."

.

xXx

.

Ouran, After Classes:

It's annoying to come all this way to take a test when both the teacher and I know I'll score 100%. Why Suoh-san couldn't just graduate me early…

What's he doing here?

"Tamaki?"

He spun around and saw me, and his face instantly turned cold.

"Kyoya, why are you in school?" he snapped.

"I'm taking a history test."

He stood there staring at me. I watched as his face grew red, and his hands started to shake.

"What were you thinking, doing that to her? Just who do you think you are, Kyoya?" he yelled, his voice echoing in the marble hallway.

He walked straight at me, and I braced myself for the punch that didn't come. But the yelling continued.

"After everything we've been through, after creating your own destiny and grabbing it, after finding the girl of your dreams, you became your father."

He didn't hit me but pushed me back against a wall. I felt the air explode from my lungs.

"You became what you despise most!"

He turned and walked away, but not without saying, "And you always called me the idiot."

Shit. Since the last time I talked to him, he found out about me hiding Haru. That tiny glimmer of hope that the rest of the club wouldn't find out is dead.

Tamaki was right. There is no Kyoya anymore, only Yoshio.

.

How can he be so calm after everything he did? It didn't even look like he knew what he did wrong or why I was angry.

No apology either.

I've lost my best friend. There's no doubt anymore.

.

"How was the test, Kyoya-sama?"

For the first time, I'm humiliated by my score. Tamaki rattled me more than I gave him credit for.

"Fine."

"Where to?"

"Home. I need a drink," I said as I collapsed into my limo.

.

xXx

.

Evening, Morinozuka Lounge:

"Here you go, Fujioka-san. These two are weaned from their mom and ready to go to their new homes, but I wanted you to see them first. Puppies make everything better."

Yoshida-san placed one of the puppies on Haruhi's lap, and it immediately stood up and licked her face. I haven't heard her giggle like that since before the accident, and maybe even before the shooting.

Satoshi and I decided it would be best to stay in the lounge with them. I'm her protector now. While I don't think there's anything to concern me here, leaving her alone with Yoshida-san doesn't sit well. I know she's been working with him for a while, but I only met him at the funeral. Why risk a problem?

"She's so soft," I heard Haruhi mumble.

"Here." Yoshida-san handed her a treat. "Give this to her."

The puppy took the treat and then proceeded to lick her hand looking for another.

"So, how did things go at the dog show?" he asked.

"Well. Our banner and logo were prominent, and the giveaways were popular. We've seen an increase in internet sales shipping to that area."

"That's terrific. Are you still going to sponsor the national show?"

"Definitely. Our marketing manager is working on that. She went to the show in my place and learned quite a bit. We're looking for two more of the smaller shows that lead up to the national to sponsor."

"I can recommend some."

They talked about dog shows and sponsoring for a short time before he switched puppies.

"This little guy was the only boy in the litter. If you think the other was a licker, wait until he gets on your lap."

True. He practically climbed her chest to get to her face and ear. My heart warmed to hear that giggle again.

"Would anyone like more tea?" Satoshi asked. Haruhi's in no position to play hostess. They both declined, seemingly forgotten we were in the room.

.

xXx

.

Noguchi Gallery:

"Tonight's concert is a complete success, Tamaki-kun," I said as we moved to the main gallery for intermission.

He only nodded his head.

"Tamaki-kun?" I took his hand and squeezed. "What's wrong?" Something's been off since Host Club, but this is the worst he's been distracted.

He shook his head and focused on me. "I'm sorry, Renge-chan. I was thinking about something that happened earlier today and can't let it go."

"What?"

"I saw Kyoya today at school."

Well, I wasn't expecting that. I knew when he came back to the club after running back to his locker, he was quiet, but this is huge. They were best friends.

He pulled me further away from the crowd. "He was there to take a test, and I blew up at him. I didn't realize I was that furious until I opened my mouth. I didn't let him say anything. I just pushed him against the wall and exploded."

"Hey," I said as I held his face in my hands, "it's alright."

He held my wrists gently and cut me off. "No, it's not alright. We were best friends, and he ruined it. Everything I valued in our friendship was crushed by his actions. It's dead, Renge-chan. Dead."

Looking around to see who was watching, I pulled him around a corner and into my arms. I held him gently as he cried.

.

xXx

.

Rich Bastard Fancy Pants Pastry Shop:

It's been too long since we've been out alone, and I've been looking forward to trying this new pastry shop all week. It wasn't hard to talk Honey-kun into taking me.

The inside looks like a winter candy land with ice-cream mountains, popsicle trees, and gingerbread houses, all sculped in bright colored plastic. Snowman chairs and cupcake tables are scattered around with a mock frozen stream and gumdrop bridge in the middle.

Dozens of pink, white, and red hearts are everywhere as balloons, candy pieces, signs, and pillows for the chairs. I imagine it was more 'Christmas' looking earlier, and now transformed to a Valentine's theme.

As the seasons go by, the decorations will change to different themes. It's a good excuse to keep coming back.

"I feel bad leaving Haru-chan alone tonight, Cho-chan."

He's so sweet and loves his friends so much. Daddy's allowed us to date more frequently, but still has reservations. There must be something I can do.

"But, Honey-kun, I didn't think she was alone."

"She's not, Satoshi and Takashi are there, but she needs everyone to help her though this."

Smiling, I reached over and took his hand. "We can go back if you think we should. I can have one of my cars pick me up there."

"You're amazing, Cho-chan! Thanks for offering, but I don't want to ruin our time together. I shouldn't have brought it up. I'm sorry." His pout is so cute. Does he know how adorable he is?

"Honey-kun, your heart's big enough for all of us. Why don't we take Haruhi-chan some strawberry cake when we're done here?"

"Great idea! And maybe an extra cake for Usa-chan."

.

xXx

.

Evening, Morinozuka Lounge:

"Yoshida-san, I need to trade back for the little girl. This one is too feisty," she sighed. I could tell he was tiring her out.

"Of course, Fujioka-san." I took the boy puppy and handed her the girl. She's already slowing down for the evening and will probably fall asleep on her lap.

I was worried when I saw her at the funeral. Obviously, I knew she wouldn't be her usual happy self, but it was worse than I was expecting. With the deaths and her injuries, she looked terrible, like she hadn't slept or eaten in days. For all I know, she hadn't.

While nothing can just up and solve this for her, puppies can be a quick, little burst of happy. Just enough to remind her she's alive and acknowledge it is a good thing.

"She likes you," I said as I saw the puppy falling asleep on her lap. "Sleeping on your lap instead of looking for her brother is a complement."

"Thank you, little girl," she whispered as she stroked the puppy down her back. "I like you too."

I'm glad I came over. The small smiles on the Morinozuka brothers' faces showed me that.

"HARU-CHAN!" someone called from the entryway. I jumped and the puppy on her lap woke up whining.

"We brought cake!" a small, blond boy said as he walked into the room. If I hadn't met him at the funeral, I would have thought him to be in middle or elementary school. But no, he's the nineteen-year-old Haninozuka heir. Will wonders never cease. The sweet girl in the pink sweater and skirt gave him an indulgent smile. Girlfriend?

"Thank you for the cake, Honey-senpai."

A maid had already come in, taken the boxes from him, and started to serve it. Chocolate cream and strawberry shortcake.

"Yoshida-chan, I didn't know you were coming over," he squealed. 'Chan'? Guess you can get away with a lot when you're that cute and a dynasty heir.

"I wanted to show Fujioka-san two of our puppies. Thought she'd enjoy a break."

"Oh, they're so cute. Can I hold that one?" Haninozuka-sama pointed to the boy puppy wiggling in my hands.

"Sure, Haninozuka-sama," and I handed the yipping puppy to him along with a few treats. "No cake, but you can feed him these." I could tell he wanted to feed him a piece of cake, and I was right by the disappointed look in his eyes.

"Yoshida-chan, you can call me Honey." He turned to the girl with him and introduced us.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Cho-san," I bowed the best I could from my spot on the floor. I should have stood up, but I'm still messing around with the puppy.

She wasn't concerned with my informality, as she plopped down next to Honey-san and started to pet the puppy. "It's good to meet you too, Yoshida-san."

.

As Cho-chan and I played with the cutest puppy I've ever seen, I watched Haru-chan and Yoshida-chan. The puppy she was holding had gone back to sleep. Yoshida-chan moved closer to her and they were talking quietly.

"She's precious. I hope her new owners realize how lucky they are."

"I'm sure they will," he smiled at her as he started to pet the dog too.

Then our puppy started to fall asleep and Yoshida-chan said, "I should go. They're tired out and need to be ready early in the morning for their new owners."

He said goodbye to all of us, and I said, "Thank you so much for bringing them by, Yoshida-chan." Then I helped him put the puppies into their traveling cage. "Do you need a ride home?"

"No, thank you, Honey-san. My car's outside."

"I'll see you to the door. Honey-senpai, can you push me?"

I pushed her to the entry and stood back to let her say her goodbyes.

"Please let me know if you'd like another furry visitor, Fujioka-san."

"Yoshida-san, please call me Haruhi."

"Thank you, Haruhi-san. Please call me Naoto."

She gave him a small smile and said, "Thank you, Naoto-san. Another visit from you and a furry sidekick would be nice."

"Call and let me know when, and I'll arrange it."

"Thank you and good night."

"Good night, Haruhi-san."

After he left, I pushed her back to the lounge, and she asked for Eimi to take her up to her room.

"I'm sorry I didn't get to spend more time with you, Cho-senpai. I'm worn out from today and need to get ready for bed."

"Don't apologize. I'm happy I got to see you and the puppies."

.

I braked fast for a red light and could hear the puppies bark from the back seat.

The visit was a success. Despite being tired, she was happier than when I arrived. That spark in her eyes showed up when I put the first one in her lap and was still there when I left.

There's something about Haruhi-san…makes me want to protect her and keep her happy.

Hope she calls soon for another visit, or I could bring her back to the kennels after she's out of that wheelchair.

.

After Haruhi-senpai went upstairs and Cho-senpai left, I sat with Takashi and Mitsukuni as we discussed the visit.

"Haru-chan liked the puppies. She was happier than she was earlier."

"Hn."

"Why the frown, Taka? I think it went well."

"Did either of you think he was too…familiar with her?"

Mitsukuni and I glanced at each other and I shrugged. "Nah, seemed fine to me. Just a business friend. Why?"

"Seemed odd, him coming to visit and bringing dogs."

"You know Haru-chan, Takashi. She brings out the best in everyone and can make friends with anyone. He just wants to help her through this, and you want to protect her from everything." Mitsukuni jumped up on his shoulders. "She'll need all her friends to get better."

"Hn."

.

xXx

.

Noguchi Gallery:

"Thank you for the beautiful performance," I said to the pianist who played tonight. "Truly inspirational."

"Thank you, Suoh-sama, for providing the venue for my premier."

At just fifteen, he was most definitely a prodigy and currently taking Japan by storm. Tonight was his largest venue so far.

This was the first concert I've experienced in my new gallery, and it was impressive. The acoustics were perfect for the piano and the applause was thunderous. I was proud of my gallery tonight.

I introduced him to the elite, and he was charming.

Try as I might, I couldn't keep my mind off Kyoya and what he did.

Growing up in France, I spent most of my time with Mother and waiting for Father to visit. I had a few acquaintances from school, but no friends.

Then I moved to Japan. I'm not as much of an idiot as some think. I knew Kyoya's father told him to make friends with the 'Suoh heir', but was excited to have a friend, even if it was fake.

And then it wasn't.

I helped him escape his frame, and he helped me find some measure of acceptance of the way Grandmother treated me. I wasn't lonely anymore.

We've been slowly drifting apart over the last year, what with him dating Haruhi and then everything he did, and me dating Renge-chan and my slow progress with Grandmother. But we could still talk about anything.

And now we can't.

He betrayed our friendship. Shattered it so hard, I can't pretend it can be repaired.

I have Renge-chan now and the other hosts, but he'll always be my first best friend, and I'll never be able to forgive him.

.

xXx

.

Morinozuka Koi Pond:

Akira and I stayed up late working out the conversation we'll have with Haruhi-chan tomorrow. Bringing in a new member of the family is harder than I thought. My first priority must be Haruhi-chan, but I hardly know her. I'm treading a fine line between being her friends' mother, her guardian, and the mother figure I feel she needs, and I want.

With all this on my mind, I couldn't settle down and go to bed, so I wandered the house. I wasn't really surprised to find Haruhi-chan at the koi pond despite the lateness of the hour. It's become her favorite place in the mansion.

Of course, I knew about her visitor and his puppies. Satoshi told me she seemed happier after they left, but tired. She must have taken a nap before coming down here.

She's not fitting in as well as I'd hoped. Satoshi taking me to her apartment helped me gain a perspective I never would have otherwise. I'm afraid that after tomorrow, she'll have an even harder time, but it must be done. I believe the sooner the better. That way, we won't continue to drop more on her shoulders as time goes by.

This area of the garden could use some improvement. The fountain sounds off somehow, and the scent of the flowers is overpowering. Now's the perfect time. Maybe Haruhi-chan and I can do it together.

As I've stood here, many different emotions have drifted across her face. Her eyes went from mere slits with her brows wrinkled, to large and glassy with a few tears falling. I watched as her shoulders slumped and then became rigid. Until finally, she looked down at the stuffed dog in her lap and smiled. It wasn't big. It wasn't full of laughter. But it reached her eyes.

Things will work out; it will just take time.

I'm going to bed.

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

So, between the school bag and the lunch account, Haruhi's being slowly dragged into the Rich Bastard world. Will she adapt? Only to a certain degree? Opinions…

She's going ahead with the ad pics. Took Dad and me a while to decide if she was or wasn't. There's a plan for that in the future that I'd have to drop if she pulled out from line. Hope the reasons for her decision made sense.

Made myself cry writing Haruhi's breakdown. Hope she wasn't too OOC with the language, but I figured even Haruhi would be that frustrated after what she's been through.

Tachibana got a little brave, but not sure how much good it did.

Tamaki runs into Kyoya. Was his reaction what you'd expect? How about when he thinks about it later at the gallery?

Lots of fluff with the puppies and pastry. What's up with Yoshida?

Wrapped up with the koi pond. Umeko (Mori's mom) is worried about Haruhi fitting in. Will she ever? Don't expect her to become a complete rich bastard. She'll always keep her moral compass.

Drop me a review and let me know what you think of the direction.

.

Next Chapter:

That mysterious conversation with Haruhi and the Morinozuka's – Some fluffy dates with the rest of the group – And a BIG surprise for Kyoya.

.