Author's Note: Thanks for all the reviews, favs, and follows. In case you haven't figured it out, I suck at responding to reviews. Please know that I read every one of them and my dad does too. We appreciate all reviews, good, constructive, and critical.
Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will.
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Date Posted: 1/11/2020
Trigger Warnings: Language
The Next Phase - Chapter 19: The New Uniform
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Monday, February 21:
Morning, Various Classrooms, Random Students, Ouran:
"What are you wearing, Cho-chan?"
"It's the new girl's uniform. Isn't it cute?"
"Yes. When can I get one?"
I've been wearing the boy's uniform for months because I hate that stupid yellow thing. I don't know many girls that don't. I think the only girls that are still wearing it are the ones whose parents won't let them switch to the boy's.
Cho-chan's wearing a blue skirt that's the same color as the boy's blazer and it comes just above her knees. Her blouse is white, and the blazer is black, cut short just below the waist. Instead of a tie, she's wearing a black scarf with purple stripes.
I love it.
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"You look great, Watanabe-san. What is that?"
"It's the new girl's uniform. I'm modeling it for Kaoru. What do you think?"
"Much better than the yellow dress. It looks professional, not like this silly thing."
She's wearing a black, short blazer, white blouse, black and purple scarf, and a blue skirt that comes down to mid shin, just like the yellow dress. This skirt, however, is strait with kick pleats.
Can't wait to wear it. Mother wouldn't let me switch to the boy's uniform, so I've been wearing this yellow monstrosity.
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What is Keiko-san wearing? That's not the boy's uniform, but it's so similar. Blue slacks, black, short blazer, white blouse, black and purple scarf.
"Where did you get that, Keiko-san?"
"It's the new girl's uniform the Hitachiin twins designed. My legs are warm in these pants. Perfect for winter. And they have pockets!"
I want one.
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Hika and I've been hearing rumors and getting texts all morning about the new uniforms. Renge's wearing the long skirt option and so far, nothing but positive feedback.
We went with three different options for the bottoms, short skirt, long skirt, and slacks. These work best for different times of the year and allow them to express their personality.
We dressed all the girlfriends today, with two wearing one of each option.
Now all we need is to hear from the Chairman. Hika came up with the brilliant idea to debut it without showing him first. With the huge approval from the student body, he'll have to say yes.
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xXx
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Ootori CEO Office:
Ito Yuki's father wants me to enter into an arranged marriage with her. She's a sweet girl. Watanabe assures me she and Hikaru aren't dating. Apparently, Ito-chan knew she would have an arranged marriage and had been keeping her relationship with Hikaru to friends.
Marrying Ito Yuki. An interesting thought, in its own way.
"Excuse me, Ootori-sama." One of my assistants poked her head into my office. "I've come with your cash for the week."
"Thank you." I took the envelope from her.
I don't go to the bank myself. The head of the Ootori Conglomeration can't be seen doing something so mundane. I do, however, need cash throughout the week, usually for tips. This assistant gets it for me every Monday.
I pulled out my wallet and began to organize the new cash with what I already had.
That's when I saw it.
I smashed the intercom and yelled, "Get Tachibana in here. NOW!"
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xXx
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Lunch, Ouran Dining Hall:
"Hikaru, Kaoru, the new uniforms are terrific! Now my legs won't freeze in the winter and I won't be so hot in the summer."
"I know – it's perfect. When can I start wearing it?"
"I want one!"
Hikaru stood up on the table and announced, "Calm down, girls. The uniform still must be approved by the Chairman. Once that's done, it will be the official girl's high school uniform for Ouran. You can wear it next school year."
"Yea!"
That's when I saw my father in the doorway, listening to Hikaru and what all the princesses were saying. Did Hikaru mean what I think he did? My father hasn't even seen the new uniform yet? Not good. He does not like surprises.
Oh, no. He's coming over here.
"Hikaru-kun, Kaoru-kun, I see you are debuting a prototype of the new girl's uniform today."
Hikaru, who apparently doesn't know any better, smiled and said, "Yes, Mr. Chairman. We've had nothing but positive feedback."
My father frowned and leaned down between the two. I have no idea what he whispered, but their faces went white.
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"It was a grave misjudgment you made, not showing it to me first."
I saw both of the boys' faces lose color. I am angry they didn't show it to me first, but I do like the design. I can't just approve it. I want to see them sweat.
"I apologize, Mr. Chairman." That has to be Kaoru speaking. "We wanted honest feedback for you to take into consideration before presenting the designs to you."
"That's a nice dodge, Kaoru-kun. However, that implies I wouldn't seek opinions from students myself."
I held back a smirk as their faces went even whiter.
"Come to my office directly after classes. The Host Club can do without you for a short while."
I stood, turned, and walked out of the room. Once in the hallway, I couldn't stop the smile.
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"What did he say?" Haruhi-senpai asked.
She'd selected a simple grilled-salmon salad with no sides and tea for lunch today. The least expensive item on the menu. Takashi told me his parents had a financial discussion with her while I was gone this weekend, but he wasn't sure if she'd adjust. Taking her shopping for books was a good idea. I'll have to watch and see if she keeps getting that salad. That will mean one of two things…either she likes it or she's trying not to spend money.
Hikaru-senpai gulped, "He's angry we showed the school before him. He wants us to go to his office after classes, Boss. We'll be late for club."
"Be careful. He hates surprises."
"Now you tell us."
"I'm sure it will be fine you guys. The uniforms are tasteful, professional, and all the girls love them. I'll definitely trade my boy's uniform in, but I'll probably wear the pants most of the time." Haruhi-senpai gave them a small smile and went back to her salad. The smile dropped off her face as soon as she looked down.
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I can't believe how much this salad cost. Living in this situation is like traveling to an entirely different planet.
Just then, my text tone sounded. Who's texting me? Almost everyone is here.
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Text conversation between Haruhi and Naoto-san (Dog breeder):
Naoto: I'm checking in to see how you're doing.
Haruhi: OK. I'm back at school.
Naoto: Now? Sorry. I'll text you later tonight.
Haruhi: No, it's fine. I'm at lunch now.
Naoto: OK. Have time to chat?
Haruhi: Sure. How are the puppies?
Naoto: Doing well. Had a litter two days ago.
(attached are two pictures of very small, very cute puppies)
Haruhi: How sweet.
Naoto: Yeah, they are. I love my job.
Haruhi: We found the next dog show. It's the first Saturday in March, the 5th. Can you come?
Naoto: I'll clear the day. Where?
Haruhi: It's up in Nagano. I'll leave early and take a train. You're welcome to ride up with me and Tanaki-san.
Naoto: Thanks. That'd be great. I'll let you get back to lunch. Talk to you later.
Haruhi: Later.
(Picture of Haruhi with the girl puppy he brought over for a visit)
Haruhi: Thanks for the picture. I didn't even see you take it.
Naoto: ;-)
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I think everyone at the table watched Haruhi have a text chat with someone. Shinobu elbowed me in the ribs and whispered, "Ask her who that was."
Chicks. "Hey, Haruhi? Who was that?"
She hesitated at first, and I felt my stomach clench. There's no fucking way that was Ootori, was there?
"Yoshida Naoto. He's the dog breeder I've been working with."
"Oooo, the one we saw last week?" Cho-senpai squealed. She and Honey-senpai are a pair.
"Yes, and he sent this." She showed all of us a picture of her sitting with a puppy on her lap. It was standing up and licking her face.
"That's a cute picture, Haruhi-chan!"
"Thanks, Cho-senpai. His visit was a welcome distraction."
"Looks like it might have been more than that from the smile on her face," Shinobu whispered in my ear. I had to agree.
Hikaru asking the next question kept me from seeming suspicious. "What did he want?"
Ito-san mumbled, "That's rude and none of your business, Hikaru."
"It's fine, Ito-san. Naoto-san was asking how I was doing, and I told him about the next dog show Petto Chinmi is sponsoring. It's March 5th in Nagano."
"Glad you found another one," Keiko-senpai said. "Will you be able to go this time?"
"I'll definitely be out of the wheelchair, so I'm planning on going. Tanaki-san, my Assistant Executive Director and Naoto-san are going as well."
"It should be good for business."
"I hope so."
So now she's going out of town with this dog guy? That would be a perfect time for Ootori to try something. Good thing she has a complete security team now.
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xXx
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Ootori Conglomeration CEO Office:
"I can't think of anything else except for asking Tamaki to alert the banks."
I'd watched Kyoya-sama order the BOS out on the streets to find as many marked bills as they could by going to stores and stalls and offering to buy them at four times the face value.
We'd confirmed the code on the bills was the same as Ootori-sama's code. All coded bills were being copied for the BOS and Kyoya-sama, then put in his private safe.
"Will Suoh-sama speak with you?"
"Only one way to find out."
He dialed and the call was ignored. "He cut me off on the first ring!"
The result was the same for the next three attempts.
"Fuck!"
He got up and stared out the window.
Actions have consequences. His call would have been answered if he hadn't kept Haruhi-sama from the rest of the club.
"Send a guard that he knows over to Ouran. Tell him he needs to answer my call."
"Kyoya-sama, may I suggest that the guard tell him what's going on and ask him for you for the favor. It has a better chance of succeeding."
"Fine. Do it." He waved his hand at me, and I left the room. His temper has become more like his father's since the funeral.
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xXx
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Ouran Dining Hall:
I watched as Tamaki-kun ignored another call.
"Who is that," I asked quietly.
"Ootori."
"Why is he calling you?"
"I don't care."
…several minutes later…
Lucky I was in the area, or I'd be getting here after the lunch hour.
Walking up to the dining hall, I spotted Suoh-sama. He's hard to miss with that blond hair and huge group around him. I know most of them from before.
"Suoh-sama? May I speak with you?" I respectfully asked.
I didn't take my eyes off his face but heard a gasp from the other side of the table. I assumed it was Fujioka-sama.
"You're one of Ootori's guards," he replied. "I have no wish nor need to speak with you. Tell him to stop calling me."
Tachibana warned me it could go like this. I leaned down and whispered in his ear, "Please, sir. This is regarding Fujioka-sama's safety."
He whipped his head to face me, color leaving his face. "Hallway. Now." He strode out of the room, assuming I was following him.
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"Haruhi, are you OK?" I asked. Hika and I were sitting on either side of her and snuggled our arms around her.
Her mouth was open and eyes wide in shock. "Haruhi?"
"Why is he calling Tamaki-senpai?" She looked between us. "Why can't he leave us alone?"
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"Just what is this about? I don't have time for games."
I'd led the Ootori guard out of the room and down the hall, signaling the Ouran guard at the dining hall door to follow us.
He handed me a photocopy of a 10,000-yen bill. "We found this in Ootori-sama's currency. This code matches a code his father used. Ootori-sama believes this is how is father passed messages, some of which could have been about Fujioka-sama."
I snatched the copy from him and studied the code. "I've seen this before…"
"You have?"
"On a random 5,000 bill. I don't have it anymore." I stared at him, "What does this have to do with me?"
"Ootori-sama requests a favor. Please ask your banks to be on the lookout for these bills. He will pay for the bills, plus three times their value as a reward to the finder."
"I'll see what I can do," and I walked away with the copy, leaving the guard standing there. "I'll contact Tachibana with any information," I called over my shoulder.
After a quick call to the manager for all our banks in Tokyo, and sending him a picture of the copy, I went back into the dining room.
Haruhi looked to be in shock. Damn Kyoya.
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"What did that bastard want?" Hikaru-senpai asked.
Personally, I'm ready to team up with him and Kasanoda-senpai and rid us of this problem permanently. After watching the Alien comfort her in the hospital and seeing her at Matsui's grave, I would do almost anything to see Haruhi-senpai smile and laugh again.
Tamaki-senpai sat down and gently said, "I apologize, Haruhi. There was a question regarding an assignment, and he called me. I told his guard to tell him never to call me or anyone else in this club or any of our friends. We never want to hear from him again."
"Thank you, Tamaki-senpai," she whimpered through tears. "Could someone push me to a restroom – one of the single occupancy ones."
The twins jumped at the request, and Renge-senpai went with them.
After they were gone, Kasanoda-senpai growled, "What did that asshole really want, Tamaki-senpai?"
"He asked how Haruhi was doing. The message I sent back was the same."
"Bastard."
"I agree."
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xXx
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Host Club:
"Welcome!"
I know how much Chika hates this, but Tamaki-senpai insisted, so there are cakes, balloons, streamers, excited girls, and a theater set up to watch his finals match.
"Satoshi, I don't want all this attention. It's humiliating."
"I know you think that, but you're headed for the Olympics. That's a huge accomplishment, and the club and girls want to celebrate with you."
"Fine," he pouted. "At least you got some food I like."
Tamaki-senpai took the stage to announce today's activities.
"Princesses and gentlemen, today we are celebrating Haninozuka Yasuchika's gold medal victory at this past weekend's world cup. Please enjoy some time with your designated host, then we'll all watch the finals!"
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"Fujioka-san, it's good to see you more often."
"Thank you. Until I'm out of this wheelchair, I'm not going into the office or running errands. I'll be back to my regular schedule next week."
"Sorry to hear that. We'll miss you."
She smiled and leaned towards him. "You can still see me Wednesdays and Fridays."
He took her hand and kissed her knuckles. "I definitely will."
Yuck. How does Haru-chan stand this. It's worse than what the girls do to us and absolutely worse than how we treat the girls.
With Takashi and I being here only one day next year, and Tama-chan graduating, how will the club continue?
"Where is Mori-senpai today, Honey-senpai?"
"He passes on his apologies, Princess, but he had a business meeting he could not miss. He'll be here Wednesday."
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Might as well get this over with. They told me to pop a balloon. Here goes.
POP!
Damn, that was kinda cool. Haruhi-san jumped so high she practically fell out of her chair. It did hurt those ribs of hers. That's too bad.
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I happened to be looking over at Haruhi-san when that balloon popped. As a yakuza heir, I've gotten used to gunshots, but the way she jumped…that reaction is from the attack where Ritsu got shot, from the car crash, or both.
That's some serious PTSD.
She stood and limped to the changing room, favoring her ribs. I followed quickly, hoping to help. I think I scared everyone else off from following her.
"Haruhi-san?"
One of the curtains was moving. I walked over and tapped on the door frame. "Haruhi-san? It's me, Shinobu. Can I come in?"
No response, just sniffles. "I'm coming in. I need to be sure you're alright." Yeah, like she's alright.
Slipping into the room, I saw her sitting on the bench, curled up into herself as much as possible with that cast and those ribs. Tears were flowing down her face and her eyes were darting all over the cubical.
"What…what's wrong with…with me?" she stuttered through tears.
I handed her a handkerchief and sat down next to her. "Looks like a panic attack. You ever felt like this before?"
"Can't breathe…heart pounding…"
"Yeah, panic attack."
I squeezed in behind her, getting her on my lap. Damn, she's short. I top out at about Ritsu's height. She doesn't come up to my shoulder.
"Deep breaths. Count with me."
I played with her hair and we counted beats while breathing. It worked for me after my brother was shot. Every loud noise completely freaked me out.
She'd turned her face into my chest and couldn't see the curtain. While we were breathing, Honey-senpai and Ritsu poked their heads in. As soon as they saw what was up, they kept everyone else away.
After about ten minutes, she was calmer and had stopped crying.
"Is it all loud noises?"
"Yes," she whispered.
"You need help, Haruhi-san."
"I need some time. I'll get through this. It's silly."
"It's real."
She turned and stood up but wasn't that steady. "Thank you for your help, Shinobu-san. I appreciate it. I need to get back out there with my clients."
"Anytime," I nodded and watched her leave. Stubborn. Can't make someone get help if they don't want it. I'll talk to Ritsu and see what we can come up with.
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"I'm fine, Honey-senpai. I think I need one of my pain pills. I jerked my ribs pretty hard."
"I'll say you did," one of my clients said.
Honey-senpai handed me my purse and I took out a pill. "Let me know if you need anything else, Haru-chan."
"Thank you."
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Shinobu came back and whispered, "PTSD from the shooting."
"Yeah."
"We need to talk after club."
"Yeah."
"Shit, Asshole. You can be so eloquent sometimes."
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xXx
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Chairman's Office:
"So, you two had the brilliant idea to show the student body the new girl's uniform without my approval."
They had the survival skills to look humble and worried.
"Yes, Sir." I think that's Kaoru. I probably won't hear from Hikaru during this. His temper isn't a good idea.
"Did you think that would make me approve the design because the student body liked it?"
"Yes, Sir." Wow. He admitted it. Definitely Kaoru.
"I'll let you know next week if I approve the design."
"Yes, Sir."
"Dismissed."
I had a hard time not laughing as they left the office, but they need to learn their lesson.
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"Fuck, Kaoru. What are we going to do if he doesn't approve it?"
"Try again with another design."
"We don't have another design."
"We're the Hitachiin Twins. We can do anything including creating another design."
"Whatever. I've got to go. I'm already late for my internship."
"See you at home."
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xXx
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Ootori Conglomeration CEO Office:
Almost fifty bills with code. The BOS was sending them to the office in batches, then they were copied, sent to the BOS office and put on my desk.
Still didn't have a fucking clue what they said.
"Ootori-sama, Morinozuka Takashi-sama is here without an appointment," my assistant's voice came from the intercom.
"Send him in. Hold everything while he's here."
Why is he here?
"Mori-senpai?"
Looking into his eyes actually hurt, there was so much anger there.
"I think you've lost the right to use that name, don't you, Ootori-san?"
He's right. I forfeited that a long time ago. "Yes, I have, Morinozuka-san." I gestured at the chair in front of my desk. "What can I do for you today?"
He didn't sit so neither did I. He crossed his arms across his chest and stood there, an immovable brick wall. This will not be good. Maybe I should have kept a guard in here.
"Why?"
I knew what he was asking, but did he really want the answer? Did I want to tell him I'm that weak?
"You know why."
"I want to hear it from you."
Of course, he does. "I wanted her safe."
"And?"
I sighed heavily, "I wanted her back."
"The reporter?"
"Keeping tabs."
"Do you know who did it?"
"No."
"You were at the funeral. You didn't approach her."
"No, I did not. It would not have been appropriate."
"We will not prosecute."
"Thank you."
Anger flashed in his eyes and he growled, "It's not for you. It's for Haruhi. We can't put her through that."
"I understand."
"You are never to see or talk to her again. I assume you realize the Morinozuka and Haninozuka security forces can keep you from her."
"Yes." So far, nothing I wasn't expecting.
"Satoshi told me you called Tamaki today to check on Haruhi."
"Yes." Check on Haru? Tamaki must not have told them the real reason. Tachibana had already gone to three different banks to pick up notes.
"Don't. Don't do that again when Haruhi could be in the room. She's fragile and can't handle that now."
"I won't."
We stood there staring at each other as the seconds ticked by until I couldn't stand it anymore.
"Is there anything else?"
"Yes. I always knew you were cold and manipulative, but I never thought you'd go this far. I never thought you could do that to her. I never thought you'd turn into your father after everything he did to you."
Seconds ticked by again, and I held my breath, my hand twitching for a glass of scotch. There is no Kyoya left, only Yoshio.
"The Morinozuka's and Haninozuka's are considering pulling your security contracts. We do not wish to supply such a dishonorable person with honorable officers."
I expected that a lot sooner, right after the marriage contract exploded in my face. What held them back?
"The only reason we haven't yet is to keep this mess from going public. No matter how it does, Haruhi will be affected. No one wants that."
"Of course not."
"We do ask you to allow any officers trained by us to leave without prejudice if they so choose."
"I will."
I know this will make it worse. I know it, but I can't not ask. I can't not drive that stake through my heart.
"She's yours now."
"No. She's her own person, as she always was and always will be. Assuming ownership of people was always your problem, Ootori."
And without a single shred of emotion, he turned and left my office.
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xXx
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Host Club:
By the time I got to the Host Club, they were already watching the final match on the big screen. Hika and I watched it live.
Tamaki's dad can be scary when he wants to be.
"Hey, Haruhi. What are you studying?"
"Physics."
"Yuck. Mind if I join you?"
"No."
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xXx
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Hitachiin Estate:
"Thank you for hiring me as your assistant, Hitachiin-sama."
"Please call me Kaoru, Takahashi-san."
"Thank you, Kaoru-sama. Please call me Mao. It's quicker."
"Thank you, Mao-san. So, as my personal assistant you have the following duties…"
I listened to Kaoru explain the job to Mao-san. The ads for my son's new line come out this weekend. His first solo line.
I had to talk him into a personal assistant in addition to a production assistant. With school and a life, he'll need the help. We didn't have too much trouble finding a commoner assistant using a staffing agency. I think she'll work out fine.
"I have two interviews this weekend. One Friday night for an entertainment show and one on Sunday morning for a business show. Both on TV. You'll need to be there for both for anything I might need and to keep track of the time."
"Yes, Kaoru-sama."
"Copies of the magazines and pullouts of the ads will be delivered on Wednesday. I'll have a list of people that copies will either need to be sent to or messengered to."
"Yes, Kaoru-sama."
"The most important thing to remember is we will NEVER reveal our primary model's name."
"Yes, Sir."
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xXx
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That evening, no one's mind was quiet:
Tamaki:
What was Kyoya thinking, calling me at lunch time. He knew I'd be in the dining hall with Haruhi. It's getting harder and harder to not call him horrible names.
Seeing my darling friend collapse in on herself like she did breaks my heart. I want to wrap my arms around her and make everything better. Renge-chan tells me that won't work with Haruhi, but I think everyone needs a hug.
Father said the negotiations for the marriage contract are almost complete. We'll be discussing it in a few weeks. Meanwhile, I've started looking for the perfect ring for my perfect girl.
For years I've wanted to go back to France for university, but it won't be possible. The gallery and Renge-chan are holding me here, and I don't want to leave them. It will be France for our honeymoon.
I applied at Todai and will be majoring in international finance and business, as expected. Father said my minor is my choice. Art history or music theory? I have time to choose.
Hikaru:
Today was great. I was brought into the development of a new game, this time VR. We should get a setup at the house.
I'm still doing the documentation, but I'm also testing and learning more about the coding. Turns out I'm good at it. Who knew?
The group went out for a late dinner again tonight, and I had a blast. This time we found a Mexican place that was decent. I should take Kaoru there, and maybe Haruhi. It'd be something different.
Hanging out with people who don't know Kaoru and don't know I was in the nuthouse is freeing. I'm finding a new side to myself. A side that is independent and has its own friends. A side that doesn't need Kaoru every second. It's scary and freeing at the same time.
Haruhi's not eating. It's hard to notice in the wheelchair since she always has a blanket, but her clothes are hanging off her. She hardly had any meat on her bones to being with. No wonder she's always cold.
Kaoru's going to give her a haircut when we come over for dinner on Wednesday, whether she likes it or not. Her hair's been limp and dull since the crash. He's also bringing over better shampoo and conditioner than what she gets at the 100-yen store. That crap is for commoners, and she's not one anymore.
Ito Yuki:
Tomorrow. Tomorrow after host club I'll tell Hikaru about my arranged marriage, but not about Kyoya-senpai. That's not finalized yet, and I don't want any rumors spreading that might jeopardize Father's plans.
I don't know how I feel about him, but it's not my place to question my father. I'll marry who is best for the company. After I produce an heir and a spare, we can live separate lives.
Kasanoda:
Fucking Ootori. I could order his death, and no one would know it was me. They'd find the body so the business could be passed on, but he'd finally be out of our lives. Out of Haruhi's life.
Pops made a comment about my grades slipping. Not sure why he's fucking surprised what with me getting shot, Haruhi's accident and the deaths, and Ronin in general. Of course, my grades are going to slip.
My mind is full of death fantasies for Ootori and much better fantasies for Shinobu. What started out as forced dating by our fathers has turned into something, but I'm not sure what. I'd kill anyone who touched her. Does that make her mine? Does that make me hers?
Motherfucker. I might just have to talk to her. Shit. I better watch my grades.
And Haruhi today, jumping at that balloon. I'd seen her jerk some at loud noises before the crash, but if it's gotten that bad, she needs to deal with it. She told Shinobu she needed time and would deal with it herself. Stubborn girl. How do you force your help onto someone?
Shinobu:
I need to hang out with Haruhi-san more often to keep an eye on her. Except for Ritsu, I bet none of those others have ever been through a panic attack like the one I saw today. Maybe I can kill two dickheads with one gun and ask her for help with my English.
At dinner tonight, Dad asked me how Ritsu was doing and where we were in our 'relationship'. I said he was fine and that I didn't know. Do we have a 'relationship' or are we just messing around? Do I want to just mess around with him or something more? Shit, I'm too young to think about this crap. Why do kids have to get married so young in this country? It's stupid.
How am I supposed to figure out who I am if I get married right out of high school? I'm not like some of the girls at Ouran. I wasn't raised to be a passive wife in an arranged marriage. I was raised to be a yakuza heir. A tough, no bullshit yakuza heir. If I marry Ritsu, I'll be the wife of an heir and then the wife of the head.
That's not what I want.
Renge:
I think this one will be the best. I set the rest of the suggested logos for the baby clothes business aside and sent an email to my marketing firm. I'm trying to keep the business lean, so I'm outsourcing several departments including marketing, accounting, and HR.
Pinku Shoshite Aoi (Pink and Blue) will be successful. I'll pass it down to my daughter and she'll be set. No arranged marriage for her.
I've approved the new designs, so the summer line will be the kickoff for the company. Haruhi was on to something with the charity tie-ins. I'll be using ones specifically for infants, toddlers, and new mothers.
She was shocked when Ootori called Tamaki-kun today at lunch. I sat with her in the restroom for at least fifteen minutes until she calmed down. I hope she never runs into him. That might cause a complete nervous breakdown.
I'll talk to the rest of the girls. We need to take her out this weekend for something fun and relaxing. Maybe a spa?
Mori:
Does Ootori have any idea how close he was to having both his legs broken or something worse?
No. I can't do that. I'm a Morinozuka, an honorable man. I'd also never do that to Haruhi. She wants him to leave her alone, not have him assaulted. Besides, it wouldn't make anything better. I'd feel satisfied for a few seconds, maybe even minutes, but I'd regret it right away. Physically hurting Ootori does no one any good.
He reacted as expected in the meeting. Now, we'll see if he keeps to his word. If he truly loves her, he'll walk away and let her find happiness.
I'm worried about this weekend. Friday is a school holiday, and Satoshi and I are leaving Thursday night for a world cup in South America. I trust my parents, Mitsukuni, and Chika with my life, but do I trust them with hers? Do I trust them with her emotional health? I don't have a choice. She'd want me to go and win.
She's the most selfless person I know.
Honey:
These pictures of me and Cho-chan are so cute. The booths let me send them to my email. I'm going to blow some of them up and frame them.
I know! I'll give her one framed. She'll love it!
I've been considering my choice of major carefully after what Haru-chan said. Why do I have to design the rides myself, when I can commission them done? It's so obvious now. I asked my parents why they didn't talk me out of it, and they said they wanted me to figure it out myself.
Fortunately, I only lost a semester, and the general classes can be applied to any major. So, what do I switch to? Some kind of business degree? Boring.
Amusement parks are businesses, but there's a lot of hospitality involved. Gourmet cakes and sweets is also something that's been running through my mind. Sure, I'll have to take over the family business, but that's mostly real estate. The younger sibling typically runs the dojos.
Maybe a double major of business and hospitality? Can't be harder than engineering.
Kaoru:
Friday night is my first solo television interview. First solo television interview. What was I thinking? I don't need to promote the line that way. No way…
Yeah, I do. An entertainment show watched by millions of Japanese customers is the perfect place. Because the Hitachiin name is so famous, it might even go viral. Haruhi's going to hate that.
Hika offered to go with me for moral support. Mom said it wouldn't be a good idea if she went. She didn't want to overshadow me, and she's right.
They're going to be showing some of the ads, and I'll be talking about the commoner and charity connections. Haruhi did warn me not to say 'commoner', but something like 'every woman' instead. I could never have done this line without her. Hell, it was practically her idea to begin with.
Sunday is a business and finance show, so the discussion with take another direction. It will be mainly why I'm focusing on the commoners and not an elite line. I'll talk a lot more about the charity tie-ins and why I feel every woman should have well-made, fashionable, and professional clothes. I should be calmer by then.
That new assistant of mine, Mao, looks like she'll work out fine. She'll be wearing clothes from the line, and I've done her fittings, so she'll have several outfits by Friday. Same for my production assistant.
Ads come out on Sunday. It's getting real.
Watanabe Naoko:
I'm not sure what Kyoya-senpai's done now, but Haruhi's reaction today at lunch was shocking. She had to leave and hide in a restroom. She was almost late to class, and when she came in, her eyes were red and puffy.
Damn him for putting me in this position. I don't want to report on the host club to him, but I can't risk him telling Kaoru we slept together. Especially now, when it's clear he's done something terrible. Kaoru wouldn't forgive me.
I have no choice. I'll stick with the superficial and hope that's good enough.
Satoshi:
Who cares if I went to a club and danced with a lot of girls? It's not like I kissed them all. I wanted to have some fun with Chika gone. No big deal.
Takashi and I are going to a competition this weekend and leaving Haruhi-senpai with Mitsukuni and Chika. I know Taka's worried about leaving her, but she'll be fine. Nothing can happen to her on this estate.
Her reaction at lunch and host club was disturbing. How long can she go on like that before she totally breaks down? Good thing Shinobu-senpai was there at club. I'd never pegged her for a comforter, but Haruhi-senpai was better when she returned.
Maybe Mother and Father should get her some help.
Morinozuka Umeko (Mori and Satoshi's mother):
I've heard from all of the boys how traumatized Haruhi-chan is. Her bad reactions to loud noises and the slightest mention of Ootori-san. If I was less honorable, I'd ruin him. He's young and doesn't quite know everything about playing the game.
Unfortunately, almost all of my mental health contacts are sports psychiatrists. That's not what she needs. We should start with a grief counselor. There must be at least one good one in Tokyo that doesn't work for Ootori.
Her last day in that wheelchair is Thursday. That's also the nurse's last day. She'll only need a maid to help with some of the bandages and to get some of her shirts on. The twins did a great job with those cast friendly tops.
She needs a bedroom set, decorations, and new clothes. I'll take her shopping this weekend. That will take her mind off everything, and we'll have fun.
Chika:
I'll sell ten thousand shares of that one. It's been a disappointment. Then I need to buy some more of those.
I don't understand why some of them want to be tied down to businesses this young. Satoshi owning that apartment business, Tamaki-senpai the gallery, although I understand that one, Takashi with his sports and nightclub companies, plus the apartment business he owns with Satoshi. Even the twins are already in the fashion business. And don't get me started on Ootori-senpai, taking over the entire conglomeration.
Sure, I own part of the newspaper, but I don't run it at all. I do enjoy the profits, though. They get folded right into the market to play with.
That I enjoy. Reading the market, reacting to news that not everyone connects. Slowly building something substantial. Slowly ruining my enemies and helping my friends.
I checked into Petto Chinmi, but Kasanoda-senpai owns almost all the stock Haruhi-senpai doesn't. I've bought what I could, but with two major shareholders, maybe Haruhi-senpai should take it private. I'll talk to her.
The order I have in for Ootori stock has produced good results. Wonder who's selling theirs off?
Kyoya:
Between the BOS and Suoh's banks, I've got almost a hundred coded bills. Yoshio was busy and right under my nose.
I threatened the cryptographers with their jobs if they don't get this translated. Yoshio wasn't that smart and couldn't be seen creating these messages, so it can't be too complex. What the hell is taking so long?
Mori-senpai…no, Morinozuka-san's visit was a surprise. It's been two weeks since they took Haru from me and now he decides to throw his weight around? I knew they wouldn't prosecute me for kidnapping. Putting Haru through that would cause irreparable damage and drag their reputation through the mud. Not to mention what it would do to my stock, and I know they own some.
Watanabe is going to have to step up her reporting. She's the only source of information I have now about the club. I think I'm going to have her start digging for information. She'll get an email tonight with new instructions.
Tachibana needs to send someone out for more scotch. This bottle is almost empty.
Somewhere in Tokyo:
The balloon today was perfect. She's even more jumpy since the crash. I don't think I'll have to push her too much more to get her over the edge.
Then my goal will be reached. I'll have destroyed the Host Club. I'll have my revenge.
Just a few more rumors and several loud noises.
It's been a long time coming, but it will be worth it. Bitch.
Somewhere else in Tokyo:
Drag bar – check.
Boat – check.
Nightclub – check.
Drunk driver – check.
Underage drinking – check.
About halfway there. No one tells me I'm powerless.
Haruhi:
I won't think about Kyoya-senpai.
I won't think about Kyoya-senpai.
I won't think about Kyoya-senpai.
I won't think about Kyoya-senpai.
I won't think about Kyoya-senpai.
I'll watch the fish and not think about Kyoya-senpai.
I'll watch the fish and not think about loud noises.
I'll watch the fish and not think about Dad.
I'll watch the fish and not think about Jarou-san.
I'll watch the fish and not think about Matsui.
I'll watch the fish and not think.
Who am I kidding?
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xXx
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Author's Note:
A little shorter than usual, but I wanted to end it where I did and the next day can't be broken up.
What do you think of the new uniform design? I wanted to get as far away from the yellow dress as possible. If you couldn't tell by now, I'm not a fan.
It was fun having the Chairman play with the twins. They kinda deserved it.
Ito Yuki and Ootori Kyoya – do you think I'll do it? I already know where I'm going with it. Hope it works for you.
And, finally, some insight into the cash codes. Definitely more next chapter.
So – the dog breeder…you'll be seeing more of him soon.
Poor Haruhi. I'm setting her up for major PTSD. She needs some help and will get it soon. Shinobu was an odd choice, but that's going somewhere.
And then the conversation with Mori and Kyoya. I wanted Mori to give the feeling of a brick wall standing between Kyoya and Haruhi. No emotion, no fear, just guaranteed protection. I think I did OK. I thought it was better when I took out a lot of the description I originally wrote.
What do you think of Haruhi's decision to go ahead with the ads for Kaoru's line? I figured she'd want to honor her mom and dad. Kaoru's sure gearing up. TV interviews…getting serious.
I'll be honest about Honey's career choice. I thought engineering to build cute rides would work but realized the same thing Haruhi did…he could just commission those. So, I did some backtracking. Hope it didn't seem too stupid. That's the problem with publishing a chapter at a time before the whole thing is written. You wind up with stuff in stone that you wish you'd never thought of.
A little more insight into the tipster and the rumor monger. Some of your guesses have been very interesting, but I won't say if anyone had it right. You'll just have to wait and see.
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Next Chapter:
The tipster strikes again – who will it be?
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