Author's Note: Thank you for the reviews and the ideas. I'll definitely be incorporating some of them. I have a hard time with the fluff. Enjoy, and I'll see you next week.
Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will.
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xXx
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Date Posted: 3/14/2020 (Pi Day)
Trigger Warnings: Language
The Next Phase - Chapter 28: The Marriage Contract
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Monday, March 14:
Haruhi's Meeting, Investment Group Offices:
"Thank you for coming, Fujioka-sama. Please have a seat."
I'd been here once before. Chika introduced me to Takata-san, and we discussed investments I could use with the little money I had available at the time.
Today, it's completely different.
"Yasuchika-sama gave me access to your portfolio, and I've looked over it. What are you goals for today's meeting?"
We'd left Ouran before lunch and had a sandwich in the SUV, but I was thankful for the tea I was served. If nothing else, it allowed me to calm down and think before answering. I did not get much sleep last night.
"This portfolio is new to me, and I'm not familiar with some of the investments. Particularly the real estate. I'd like an overview of the entire thing, if the money is best where it is, or if you have recommendations for different strategies."
"Well, let's see what we can figure out."
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When my meeting was finished, I joined Haruhi-senpai's. There were a few things I wanted to bring to her attention.
"Yasuchika-sama, please come in."
I sat in the deep leather seat and was served a cup of tea. Haruhi-senpai seemed flustered, like she'd run her hands through her hair too many times, though her notes are as neat and orderly as always.
"We just finished up. Are you done with your meeting too, Chika?"
"Yes, however there is something I think you should discuss with Takata-san about Petto Chinmi."
Her eyebrow raised, and her head tilted. "Really? What?"
"I think it's wise to consider changing to a privately owned company."
The next two hours were spent discussing the differences, the pros and cons, the cost and process, and how the company would work after the transition.
"So, I need to know who owns all my stock?"
"It shouldn't be hard. You own the majority, Kasanoda-senpai owns the next largest percentage, and I think I own the third."
"Really? Why?"
"You're doing a good job running it, Haruhi-senpai, and it's a good investment."
"What about the rest?"
"That's where I come in," Takata-san said. "I'll do some investigating and find as much as I can. We should also set up a buy order in your account to purchase any stock that comes available."
"I have that on my account but will drop it as soon as you set it up on Haruhi-senapi's."
"You can drop it anytime, Yasuchika-sama. I've just placed the order."
"Thank you." I pulled out my phone and cancelled my order.
Haruhi-senpai stared at me. "You can do that on your phone?"
I keep forgetting her background. I guess commoners don't do much on their phones but text?
"Sure." I turned to Takata-san and said, "If you'll give Haruhi-senpai her log in information, I'll set up her phone tonight." He nodded and handed her a slip of paper.
After another hour of logistics, we were walking out the door to our cars. I'm going back to school and the club, and Haruhi-senpai's going to get her cast off. She's very excited.
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xXx
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Suoh Enterprises Offices:
"Sit down Yuzuru. I've made a decision."
"Yes, Mother." I surprised she made it so quickly. I was expecting her to drag her heels.
"I will name you heir in a public ceremony. I will do this on the condition that you do not name Tamaki your heir until I have passed."
"May I ask what caused this decision?"
"The company and family come first. I do not wish to damage them."
"And the reason I must wait on naming Tamaki?"
"An heir does not need an heir."
It's not an unreasonable request from her. He's named in my will. That will cover the family if Mother and I both are killed in a car crash or something.
"And the marriage contract?"
"Will say that he will be named your heir after my passing. That must satisfy Reynard."
"He won't like it, but we've a better chance of ending this issue if you allow Tamaki to move into Suoh Mansion #1 after graduation from Ouran."
She stared at me, without moving, for a full thirty seconds. Is she in shock? Or is she that angry?
"What good would that do?"
"Propriety. If they are engaged, their time spent together in a home should be supervised. If he is living with us, there will be no scandal regarding his living arrangements."
"Is that all?"
"No, but it is the best reason. Another is that they'd be living in Suoh Mansion #2 after their wedding. Having no one living there allows for any remodeling and redecorating the bride-to-be might want. Suoh Mansion #1 is also closer to his university."
Another thirty seconds. She's weighing the pros and cons of having him live in her mansion. She's been warming up to him.
"Very well. Tamaki will live in the south wing."
Away from her in the north…
"And will be invited to meals when I wish to dine with him. Will that do?"
"Yes, Mother."
"Have the contract updated and invite Reynard and his daughter over for dinner tomorrow. It will either be finalized as is or the offer retracted."
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xXx
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Host Club:
"Welcome!"
"Did I just walk into my math class?"
"Or a bakery?"
"What's going on, Tamaki-senpai?"
"Ladies," I said and threw open my arms, "today, March 14, is Pi day, as in 3.14, the mathematical constant."
"Oh…"
"So?"
"So, today we will be enjoying many different types of pies! Pecan, lemon, chocolate, apple, pear, and so on. Please join your host for a tasting."
From across the room, I could hear Honey-senpai say, "Pie isn't cake." I'm not worried. There are cakes in the back for him when Host Club is over.
We'll also be packaging them by whole pies and slices and sending the leftovers to Second Harvest. I even had Satoshi order extra so they'd get more.
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xXx
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Morinozuka Hospital:
I walked out of the exam room and saw a familiar face. "Mori-senpai? Why are you here?"
"Wanted to make sure everything went well, and your arm was fine."
I held it out and bent it at the elbow. "It's great to be out of that cast. I don't feel helpless anymore."
"You're never helpless, Haruhi. There's a difference between helpless and needing help." He ruffled my hair and smiled.
"I suppose so."
"What did the doctor say?"
"The bone's healed. I'll need some physical therapy for the muscles and to strengthen the bone. They gave me a schedule," I held up a piece of paper, "but I just realized there isn't a location on here. Can you show me the room? It starts tomorrow."
He gave me an apologetic smile and said, "It won't be here. The therapist will come to the personal gym at the mansion."
"And the times? They aren't on here either."
"You call that day and let them know when to be there."
Of course. What was I thinking? I should know better than to think they do anything the normal way.
"Crazy, rich bastards," I mumbled, but there wasn't much malice in it.
"You're getting used to it. Admit it."
His eyes looked down at me, glinting with a merriment that wasn't showing in a smile. He almost looks nervous. "I suppose."
"Good. Let's get home for dinner."
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xXx
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Tuesday, March 15:
Breakfast Table, Hitachiin Estate:
"Kaoru, I meant to talk to you yesterday, but you didn't stop for breakfast, and then I was out last night."
"Overslept. What's up?"
"I was thinking about Haruhi. Maybe the best thing would be to get her out there for a couple of interviews and some autograph signing sessions."
"Why the hell would you think that?" Hikaru broke in. "I'm sure that's the last thing she'd want."
"Hika's right, Mom. She'd hate every minute of that."
"She'd be able to tell her story. Explain her commoner roots. The backlash is getting pretty sharp."
"I'll mention it, but if I come back home with a black eye, it's your fault."
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xXx
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Ouran Dining Hall:
"Haruhi! My darling friend! Your cast is off!" Tamaki-senpai yelled as the twins walked Haruhi-senpai in. What an idiot.
"Boss stop!" one of them said as they put their hand out to hold him back. Probably Hikaru-senpai. He calls him Boss the most. "It just came off yesterday. You don't want to break it again, do you?"
"No," Tamaki-senpai whined as he skidded to a stop. The entire dining hall is watching him. How does Renge-senpai stand him?
"Chika?" I heard my name and turned to the girls around the table. "Here are some donations."
"Thank you, ladies. Today's charity is 'Back to Nature'. It offers life-changing outdoor programs for abused, neglected, and orphaned children in Japan. Kasanoda-senpai found this one."
"How exciting. Do they do things like sleep on the ground?"
"Or cook with real fire?"
"Or carry all their things on their backs?"
"Like camping?"
"Very much so. Getting out in the wilderness and learning how to depend on yourself is very important for developing kids. Especially, if they've suffered blows to their self-esteem, such as abused and neglected kids," Kasanoda-senpai said.
Is it because the kendo competition circuit is populated mostly by normal people, or because of Haruhi-senpai, that these girls sound so out of touch? Not sure, but they seem to be getting more and more idiotic.
"We should all go camping!"
Crap. What is Tamaki-senpai thinking? And who is we?
"I'm not sure, Tamaki-senpai. I don't think my mother would let me stay outside overnight."
"And going without a chef?"
"Or a maid."
Yep, more idiotic. Haven't they even seen a movie where they camp? Just about any American horror movie has a camping scene in it.
"Don't fret, my princesses. We should camp in the club room!"
"Ah, Senpai, I'm not sure that's a good idea," Haruhi-senpai said, trying to cut him off.
Fortunately, Renge-senpai stepped up. "Tamaki-kun, that's an interesting idea, but could be complicated. Why don't you discuss it among just the hosts at your weekly meeting tomorrow and see if it's even possible?"
"Brilliant idea, Renge-senpai. I'll add it to the agenda," Satoshi said, writing himself a note. Good. Maybe that will be the end of this nonsense.
I took another few donations, and the group around our table cleared out.
"Haruhi-senpai, thank you for lunch. Your bento is delicious."
She gave Satoshi a small smile. "You're welcome. It's been so long since I cooked, I wanted to make all our three bentos. I don't think your chef was pleased."
"Haruhi-senpai, he's your chef too," I said softly so not everyone could hear. She shot me a strange look.
"NO FAIR!" the twins yelled. "Why didn't you make us a bento, Haruhi! We're your best friends!"
And then our King joined the act. "My darling friend, I'm so sad I wasn't included either."
Kasanoda-senpai was smirking as he ate his noodles, and Satoshi was just shaking his head. Do they not realize how much of her time and energy they demand? She was in the library studying when I came down for breakfast. She's not getting enough sleep.
"I finally have this cast off and wanted to cook my own bento. It seemed silly to not make Satoshi's and Chika's. There's no reason to make one for the rest of you. Don't you all have your own chefs?"
"They don't cook as good as you do!" the twins said in unison. How do they do that?
Haruhi-senpai's glare could have cut glass. "You better hope they don't hear you say that. They went to school, apprenticed, studied, and worked in many high-end venues before they became your chef. What you said was highly insulting to them."
"But…"
"No buts, Hikaru. My food is simple and healthy. If you want that type served at your homes, tell them. They think they need to impress you with five-star food at every meal to justify their presence. I'm sure they'd all enjoy the chance to give you some traditional Japanese food."
"I don't know about yours," Kasanoda-senpai said, "but our chef likes cooking homestyle. He does feed a lot more than yours do, though."
"My chef's French. His traditional Japanese food is definitely not as good as yours, Haruhi."
"Guys," she signed, leaning back in her chair and rubbing her temples, "you all have endless money, servants, advisors, and untold other resources. Why are you looking to me to solve a problem?"
She pointed at Tamaki-senpai, "Hire an assistant chef that's specialty is traditional Japanese food. Have him cook those meals and teach your head chef.
"Hikaru, Kaoru, how big is the staff in your kitchen? If their bentos are truly worse than mine, let them go and hire new staff."
With a big sigh, she turned to Kasanoda. "Ritsu, I've had your chef's cooking. It's amazing. Remind them I said that."
Leaning forward and picking her chopsticks up, she looked at all of us. "In fact, I've had most of your chefs' cooking. There's nothing wrong with it. You all just wish to be pandered to by me. I have better things to do."
With that, she grabbed her bento and left the dining hall.
"What did we do?"
Idiots.
"She's tired," I said. "Studying, working, grieving, and trying to have some kind of life in between."
"Chika's right," Shinobu-senpai said. "Her eyes had dark bags. Worse than yesterday."
"Operation help Haruhi get some sleep needs to commence."
"No," Renge-senpai said and smacked his upper arm. "Just give her some space. She'll let us know if she needs anything."
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xXx
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Phone call From Kyoya to Yuuichi:
Kyoya: "Yuuichi, I've promoted your replacement. He starts Friday."
Yuuichi: "Thank you."
Kyoya: "The hospital will throw you a going away party on Thursday."
Yuuichi: "Fuck NO!"
Kyoya: "Excuse me?"
Yuuichi: "No party. I don't want to spend a second longer in that hospital than I need to. I'm moving this weekend."
Kyoya: "Very well. The company jet is available to you if you wish."
Yuuichi: "More than generous. A very un-dick-like gesture."
Kyoya: "I hope you enjoy Europe."
Yuuichi: "I will. Don't worry about that."
Kyoya: "Just don't…"
Yuuichi: "…Embarrass the family. I know."
Kyoya: "Good-bye."
Yuuichi: "Good-bye."
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xXx
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Petto Chinmi Offices:
"Thank you for taking this assignment, Goto-san. Please let Kato-san know if you need anything. It's fortunate that you two worked together when he was a member of the Haninozuka security force."
"Thank you, Fujioka-sama," I replied and bowed.
I'd been a member of her security team since she moved to the Morinozuka Estate and volunteered to be the guard from her detail assigned to Petto Chinmi. With a baby girl at home, this gives me regular hours, except for random security sweeps. I also have my own office, which was a surprise. I was expecting a cubical. It will be boring at times, but that allows me to study for my university classes. I'm majoring in criminology.
Fortunately, Kato-san and I worked together when he was a member of the Haninozuka security force. He'd come over to Petto Chinmi to take over their CIO position. He's also heads security here.
My main duties are to handle anything that comes up for Fujioka-sama that has nothing to do with the company, such as her fan mail. I screen that and any packages that come in, then hand them off when the officer comes by to get them. I'm also with her when she's in the building, letting her regular detail take a break or do paperwork. Like I said, boring.
Today, she's meeting with Tanaki-sama, assistant ED and Gorou-sama, marketing director. I don't know much about business, so most of this is over my head.
"Have you figured out a way to distinguish between the dog show and the Hitachiin modeling in the upticks on the website?"
"There will always be a margin of error but going by location seems to be the best way. Those hits that are coming from Nagano and its outskirts, are more likely to be from the dog show. Purchases, no matter the location, are also most likely from the dog show."
"Thank you, Gorou-san. You and your marketing team have done an exemplary job."
The marketing lady bowed her head to Fujioka-sama and shuffled her notes.
"We have one more dog show scheduled before the national one. Because it's not coinciding with your 'outing' as a model, the effect will be easier to track."
Guess I have to go to that dog show and the national one. I'll talk to Eiji about budget and dates.
"The stock dropped slightly after my 'outing'. How do you think my modeling for the Hitachiin label will affect the company?"
"Actually," Tanaki-sama said, "Gorou-san and I have been discussing that. Once things settle down, it shouldn't impact it much either way.
"Thanks. The last item today is taking the business private."
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She hadn't mentioned that before. "It's a good idea. We're too small to be a publicly traded company," I said. "We'll need to discuss it with finance and accounting, but it makes sense."
I've wondered why we were a publicly traded company, but that's the way the family who owned us before wanted it.
"Actually, the dip in the stock is a good thing if you are wanting to go private."
"That's what my financial advisor said, Tanaki-san. I've set up an automatic purchase for our stock. Once I have almost all of it, we'll make our move."
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xXx
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Gorou-san's Home:
"Thank you for inviting me to your home for dinner, Gorou-san, but you didn't have to cook for my security detail."
"Nonsense. Where you go, they go. It's a package deal."
"Well, I know they appreciate it."
Gorou-san, Gorou-senpai, Eiji, and I sat at her dining room table enjoying a simple, traditional Japanese meal. I remembered lunch and how I'd stormed away from the table. That was very mature, Haruhi.
Lack of sleep is causing my fuse to shrink. There are so many things to do, and not enough time. I'm treading water and it's just over my chin. And now I have to find time for not only the physical therapy sessions, but the exercises I'm sure they'll be having me do in between.
It's only two days a week, but maybe I should quit the host club.
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I sat across the living room from Haruhi-sama and Gorou-sama, watching them do homework at the short table. He's helping her get ready for her physics test tomorrow.
There've been no security issues reported to me on my earpiece. Not that I was expecting any.
"You did all these right, Fujioka-san. You'll ace the test tomorrow."
"Hmmm," she hummed looking at her textbook.
"Fujioka-san?"
Her head jerked up. "I'm sorry, Gorou-senpai. I'm still concerned about these two formulas."
"Walk me through them, what each variable means and why it's there. That will help."
He's good with her. I know he wants to be an engineer, but he should think about teaching. Or, maybe he's only this patient with Haruhi-sama.
"Perfect. You've got it. Once you know the reasons for the equations and what they do, you can remember them easily."
"Thanks."
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I decided to do some paperwork in the living room so I could watch my son and Fujioka-sama study. I'm not sure how he managed to get into that English class, but she's helped him get through it.
"You punctuated your dialogue correctly here," she said while circling a set of paragraphs with a blue highlighter, "but you should rethink your premise. I'm not sure this conversation does what you think it does for the story."
"I'm an engineer, not a creative writer," he smirked, and I recognized the bastardized quote from his favorite American TV show. Fujioka-sama didn't.
"That doesn't mean you can't write. Why did you pick this topic? You should have written something silly about science fiction. I know you enjoy that."
"True. I could write something about human/alien interaction on spaceships." (1)
"Sounds great. When is this due?"
"Two weeks."
"Then you have plenty of time."
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xXx
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Suoh Mansion #1:
They'd served a delicious gourmet Japanese dinner along with a marriage contract that is supposed to placate both Renge and me. When she heard the terms, the nudge in the side was all I needed to know she approved of the terms. I, however, am not sure.
"It's an interesting proposal, Suoh-san."
"It's the final proposal, Reynard-san."
"Yes. You've made that clear." A quiet gasp from Renge said that comment might have been too rude. Too bad. I do not care for this woman. Fortunately, there's hardly anything in this contract that gives her power over the couple.
It was clear Tamaki hadn't been told the terms prior to now. He did a fair job of hiding his excitement regarding his move to the primary mansion, but it was obvious he was delighted. Propriety is as good a reason as any. Whatever she needs to tell herself to sleep at night.
I looked at Renge, silently asking her to confirm her approval. She nodded.
"Tamaki-san, do the conditions meet with your approval?"
"Yes, Reynard-san, they do."
"And the changes you and Renge requested are to your satisfaction?"
"Yes, they are."
"When will this be announced?"
Tamaki's father answered. "Tamaki's graduation party will be for the engagement as well. There will be a public proposal and an announcement."
"Very well. Hand me a pen."
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xXx
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Home Gym, Morinozuka Estate:
Satoshi:
With the way she dresses every day, it's easy to forget just how HOT Haruhi-senpai is. Her sweatpants ride low on her hips and that tank top doesn't reach the waistband, so there's a strip of skin showing. When she turns around, I can see those two dimples at the top of her butt. She's so small, and that waist is so narrow, I know I could just lift her up and spin her around.
I've got to stop thinking like that. She's practically my sister.
Since it's her first day of PT, the therapist is going easy on her. Stretches and light resistance work.
When she's done with that, we're all going on the treadmills. She'll be walking, but we'll whip her into shape.
Honey:
I'm spotting Satoshi while he's bench pressing, but he's staring more at Haru-chan than working out. She is showing more skin than normal.
Chika-can told me about lunch today, and it surprised me. Haru-chan is usually more calm and doesn't let her temper go for small things like that. Like he said, she's tired. Hopefully, this weekend will help. I'll make sure she sleeps. Usa-chan can help too.
Now that she has the cast off, we can do more fun things. Cho-chan and I can take her to the toy store and to eat with the bunnies!
Mori:
I can't keep my mind on my workout. Lifting weights is usually meditative, but I can't take my eyes off Haruhi. She's so beautiful, but tired. She's also lost weight.
This morning she made me a bento. It was waiting when I came down for breakfast, but she'd already left so I couldn't thank her then. When she came back from the office, I told her how much I appreciated it, and she hit me with that smile.
I'm not sure how much longer I can wait to tell her how I feel. I'm not sure I want to wait. The last time I did, Ootori stepped in. That was a horrible year.
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"That's it for today, Haruhi-sama. Please continue the stretches and I'll see you Thursday, just let me know when."
"Thank you. I will. Thursday after school is fine. I'll be coming straight back from classes."
"I'll see you then."
My therapist left the room, and I held my arm. I didn't think it would ache so much. They'd given me a sling just in case, and I think I'll put it on later.
"Haruhi," Mori-senpai said, walking up to me, "is your arm sore?"
"Not really," I said, trying to not make him worry. "Maybe just a little."
"Try this tonight." He handed me a jar of cream. "Rub a little into your muscles. It should help."
"Thanks."
"Haru-chan! Are you ready for the treadmill!"
I really don't want to do this. I have a physics test and a history presentation tomorrow. "I suppose."
"Only 30 minutes. You can do it."
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Chika:
Haruhi-senpai is walking at a decent speed. At least she's breathing heavy.
My finance meeting went well yesterday. I'm ready for a quiet takeover of a company I've been tracking for a long time. Once that's done, I'm selling the pieces off. I'll make about half a trillion Yen. Of course, then I'll have to figure out what to do with it.
Between her financial advisor and me, Haruhi-senpai is convinced to transition Petto Chinmi into a privately owned company. The only problem I see is I'm sure Ootori still owns some stock. There's a relatively large percentage I haven't been able to track. Hopefully, Takata-san can.
I know she had dinner with her marketing manager tonight, but what I'd forgotten was she's the mother of that college student that's been helping Haruhi-senpai with her physics. He better not try anything, or I'll make him pay. She's already got too many boys fluttering around her.
I heard her treadmill beep and looked over.
"That's my 30 minutes, guys. I'm going to take a shower and study for my test tomorrow. Good night."
"Good night, Haruhi."
"Good night, Haru-chan."
Looks like she's planning another long night.
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xXx
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Gorou-san's Home:
"Haruhi-sama is a nice girl, isn't she?"
"Hmmm."
"Maki-kun, are you paying attention?"
"Sorry, Mom. What were you saying?"
"Haruhi-sama is a sweet girl, isn't she?"
"Yes, she is."
"Have you thought about asking her out?"
"I've taken her for coffee and dinner after studying."
"I mean on a real date."
"Are you kidding? She's seventeen."
"She's a great catch. She's attractive, smart, and owns her own company. I doubt you'll meet anyone else like that. Plus, she's now a model."
"She's too young. She's still in high school and has another year to go. Besides, I'm not a gold digger. I won't date anyone just because they have money."
"Will you at least think about it?"
"If it will end this conversation, yes."
"I'm serious. You're almost through with college."
"Mom, it's not like I have an expiration date or something. I want to wait until I meet the right girl."
"And she's not the right one?"
"I don't think so."
"But she could be?"
"Look, I said I'd think about it. I'm going upstairs to work on this English assignment."
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As my son stomped upstairs, I wondered if I'd gotten through to him. Fujioka-sama is a wonderful girl, and I'm grateful she's my employer. However, my first loyalty is to my family, and I want Maki to have the best in life. Her drive and intelligence will take her far and they get along well together.
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What the hell is Mom thinking? Date Fujioka-san? She's in high school! She's still got another year! So what if she's got money? I don't think I feel that way about her.
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xXx
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Wednesday, March 16:
Ouran Dining Hall:
"Tamaki-senpai, is it true you and Renge have a marriage contract?"
I sputtered my tea. How does anyone know that? It was just signed last night! I can't tell her that.
"No, my princess. There's no marriage contract."
"Wonderful. I'll see you at the Host Club!"
After she left, Renge-chan whispered to the group, "We'll talk about this later." We all nodded.
There haven't been many, but this is one of the times I miss Kyoya. I miss having a best friend to discuss these things with. Someone neutral. I'd talk to Haruhi, but she doesn't understand our ways. I miss Kyoya, but how could I ever forgive him for what he did?
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She's still getting the salmon salad. I'm putting an end to this. "Haruhi-senpai, do you only get the salmon salad because it's the only dish you care for, or because it's the cheapest on the menu?"
Many faces turned to me, and Satoshi said, "Chika, that's rude."
Haruhi-senpai flushed red and stammered about how she likes it.
That finally woke Satoshi up. "Haruhi-senpai? You know you can order anything you want, right? You enjoyed the Italian dish I got you, didn't you?"
She set her fork down and dropped her hands to her lap. "Some of the others are so expensive."
Satoshi shocked me when he got up, walked around to her and knelt down. "You know you can get anything. That's what the account is for. Mother would be surprised, and probably hurt, to find out you were trying to save money by ordering the same thing for lunch every day."
The gesture was good, but the guilt trip could have been avoided.
My turn. "Haruhi-senpai, it's not necessary to save the difference between meal cost in lunches, when your new uniform will cost three months' worth of the priciest lunches."
"Three months?" Her mouth hung open.
"Maybe more. I'm unsure the cost of the new girl's uniform, especially with the choices among skirts and pants."
"Three months?"
"Each. Yes. There's no need to economize your lunches. Please eat what you wish."
Her blush had gone away, and she'd stopped gripping her hands like she was trying to break her fingers.
"I'll try something else tomorrow."
"Let's all try something different tomorrow!" Cho-senpai squealed.
Actually, not a bad idea.
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xXx
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Host Club:
"Welcome!"
"Princes and Princesses, please follow the yellow brick road to your favorite host!"
There stood Honey-senpai with a huge lollypop in his hand, the other pointed to a spiral of yellow and red bricks. The beginning of the yellow brick road from 'The Wizard of Oz'.
"Yes, my darlings," one of the twins said. He was dressed in a flashy silver-white suit with sparkles and stars. "I'm Glender, the Good Warlock of the East." He waved his long wand over our heads and continued, "Otherwise known as Kaoru, everyone's favorite Hitachiin twin."
"Hey! I heard that!" came from further in the room.
"Ignore my brother, the Wicked Warlock of the West. He's just jealous I'm granted the honor of seeing you lovely ladies first."
"Oh, Glender, save me from your wicked brother!"
He paused, looking at me with an evil smirk that was quite wrong for his character. "I'll save you, Sweetheart, but for him, not from him."
I let out a squeak when he scooped me up and set me down on his sofa.
Then Haruhi appeared at my side. Dressed as Dorothy in the iconic blue overall dress and white shirt.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, if you'll follow me, I'll guide you through Oz and to your favorite hosts."
"Haruhi-chan, those ruby slippers are practically stilts," Osamu-san said. He's been her designee since her gender was revealed. One of the few that doesn't hit on her from what I can tell.
She beckoned him over and said quietly in his ear, "The twins like putting me in these stupid heels. Can I hold your arm as I give the tour? My spot is the last stop."
"Sure," he gulped. "I'd be glad to."
Several of us stayed with Honey-senpai and Kaoru-chan, while Haruhi led the rest on through the room, down the yellow brick road.
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"If you'll follow me through this wheat field, we'll meet three of my best friends here in Oz," Haruhi said as she leaned on my arm. I haven't been this happy in a while.
We came through the small, prop wheat field into a meadow surrounded by trees. She waived with her free arm, the one no longer in a cast, to indicate the free chairs around the hosts.
The lion, scarecrow, and tin man all stood to welcome the group.
"I'd like you all to meet the heroes I met while traveling to the Emerald City. Kasanoda as the Cowardly Lion, Satoshi as the Scarecrow, and Mori-senpai as the Tin Man. Each, in their own way, saved me from something terrible during my journey."
We lost almost a third of the group when they sat down to have tea here.
"This way," she pointed, "through the forest to our next stop." We walked through a clump of trees and my mouth dropped open. "The Wicked Warlock of the West's castle."
This club goes far over the top for its guests. We walked across the end of a drawbridge, into the castle proper where there was a huge crystal ball and seating.
Hikaru stood to greet us wearing an all-black suit and top hat. He'd painted his face green and was wearing green gloves to match. A slightly smoking broomstick completed his look.
I felt sorry for Chika, dressed as one of the warlock's monkeys.
"Welcome, ladies. Would you like to join us for tea and cookies?"
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Haruhi-senpai continued through. It's about time. Tamaki-senpai has to be in here somewhere.
"Follow me through the poppy fields to the Emerald City. Who wants to meet the Wizard of Oz?"
I looked at the group that was left, and all the girls were Tamaki-senpai's designees with me. He must be the Wizard!
The gates of the Emerald City were open and there was Oz himself with his arms wide. "Ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the Emerald City!"
There were purple, orange, yellow, and red statues of horses, an amazing table set with tea service using green china, and beautiful chairs and loveseats for us.
"Dorothy, my darling. I have something for you."
Tamaki-senpai brought out a large dog out from behind a curtain. "Here's Toto."
"Thank you, Mr. Oz." She took the leash handed to her and led the guys out of the gates.
"Gentlemen, if you'll follow me, we'll be going to my Aunt and Uncle's farm."
I watched her walk slowly away, clutching to the guy so she didn't break her leg.
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At last, we're at my station, and I can sit down. Osamu-san led me over to a sofa and then sat down next to me.
"Gentlemen, who would like tea and cookies?"
"I've never seen this movie," one of them said, while looking it up on his phone, "but I've read the book. The first one anyway. L. Frank Baum wrote 13 sequels, and after his death, Ruth Plumly Thompson wrote 21 more."
"I had no idea. I've only seen the movie," I said, picking up a cookie shaped like an emerald and taking a bite.
"I saw it during a vacation in America. They play in on their TV all the time."
I let my mind fade as I listened to them basically entertain themselves. Antoinette had joined us on the sofa, laying down between Osamu-san and me. It wasn't long before my fingers started playing with her fur while I fed her small pieces of my cookie.
"Haruhi?"
I looked up and smiled, "Yes, Osamu-san?"
"I thought you did well on your history presentation today."
"Thanks. I hope it was good enough. I didn't spend as much time as I should have on it. Things are so busy."
"I know. I can't believe the school year is almost over and we'll be third-years. It's going by so fast."
I nodded. In some ways it's been an express ride downhill and in other ways, I feel like I've been walking through tar. And next year's classes will be even harder.
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"Honey-senpai, may I have a lollypop?"
He's so cute, dressed in pink shorts, pink and white plaid shirt, and his hair styled in outrageous curls.
"I only have the one big lollypop for Dorothy, but we have cake! It's way better!" He handed out cake and tea, and then ate three pieces himself.
One of Kaoru's designees said, "It's a different host arrangement than usual."
"We decided to match characters to host personalities, then group by the characters rather than the hosts."
"I think it's great," Honey-senpai said. "This way I get to meet all you wonderful new ladies."
"Kaoru, how's Haruhi doing with her new fame?"
"She hates it," he said and slumped a little in his chair. "Now she's got her own PR person and lawyer and feeling even more uncertain. I don't know what to do."
"Simple. Overexpose her."
"What!"
We all looked at her strangely. I don't know anything about the fashion business, but that does not sound right.
"Calm down," she said. "I'm not talking about skin. I'm talking about interviews and public appearances. Once the shiny newness is gone, her fans will settle down."
I suppose that could work. I guess.
"Do you think that's a good idea, Kao-chan?" Honey-senpai asked. He'd nodded at me to show he wasn't sure either.
"I'm not sure, Honey-senpai."
"Talk to your PR department. Sounds like she needs an agent too. When my uncle debuted in his first movie, the press and fans were insane. Once he did a couple interviews and signed some autographs, things calmed down for him. Of course, they will never go back to how it was for her before the ads came out."
Kaoru leaned back and turned his head. From that position, I think he can just barely see Haruhi. "I'll talk to some people. I got her into this. The least I can do is make it less horrible."
"That's the spirit, Kao-chan. Have a piece of cake!"
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"Tamaki-kun, what is this…stuff?"
"That's Jell-O, my princess. We have grape, lemon, orange, and cherry flavors today, all in these beautiful, antique dessert cups."
"But what is it?"
"Haruhi assures me it is a commoner delicacy they eat for dessert. It's made from colored crystals and hot water." I held up a box to show them the mix. "You mix the crystals and the hot water then allow it to cool."
I took a spoonful and offered it to my closest princess. "Have a taste."
"It's a little rubbery but does taste like lemons."
"When Satoshi was researching for this cosplay idea, he found some interesting facts about how the movie was made. They used these crystals to make the horse different colors for the Emerald City scene. They had to shoot the scene fast, because the horses kept trying to lick off the Jell-O."
"Oh, that's why it's here today."
"Yes, Princess, but isn't it fun to try commoner things for no reason?"
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"Kasanoda-kun, you are so cuddly as the lion."
"Thank you. This costume is actually comfortable, but the real one was definitely not." I pulled out a picture of the original costume. "It was made from real lion pelts, both the skin and fur, and was so heavy and hot, the actor had to take it off between takes."
"How revolting."
"I agree. To kill a lion just for the costume."
"I meant to have to wear it."
"Oh. I suppose that's revolting as well."
These chicks. So weird.
"Mori-senpai?" Good, at least they're switching to him.
"Hn?"
"You're dashing as the Tin Man. So shiny."
What else is she going to say? He's so hard? I think I'd spit my drink if one of them said that.
"And Satoshi," one of the said. She got up and plopped into his lap. Damn. "You're so soft." And she poked him in the belly, which had been stuffed with straw.
He leaned up and whispered in her ear, "Not everywhere."
"Kasanoda-kun!"
I'd swallowed wrong and was trying to keep my tea from coming out of my nose. Fuck!
And that jerk, Satoshi, just winked at me. He better be glad Mori-senpai didn't hear that.
Once I caught my breath, I managed to tell the girls I was alright. Mori-senpai handed me a napkin. Guess he's used to doing that for Honey-senpai.
"Have you seen the movie, Satoshi?" she asked, still perched on his lap. Is she hoping to find something 'harder'?
"No, but I did find out that the actor playing the scarecrow, Ray Bolger, had to wear face prosthetics for the mask. You know how sometimes when you sleep, you get marks on your face from wrinkles in the sheets."
A few of them nodded.
"He had marks from the mask for over a year before they wore off."
"Oh no. How horrible."
"Yes. That's revolting."
Not more than killing and wearing a lion, but that's chicks for you.
"Mori-senpai, would you like a cookie? This one looks like your oil can."
"Thank you," he said and took the cookie. "Let me show you something. Hand me the oil can over there."
I knew what was coming and braced myself for squealing. I thought this part was actually kinda cool.
He poured oil all over his cookie and ate it.
"Oh, Mori-senpai! Why did you do that?"
"That's revolting." Maybe I could teach her some new insults.
"It's chocolate syrup. They used it in the movie for the Tin Man's tears."
Once they realized that, the oil can was passed around and the syrup was poured all over all the cookies.
Glad I don't have to clean all this mess up.
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"Oh, Wicked Hikaru! I can't wait for next school year so I can wear the uniform you designed."
"I can't wait to see all you amazing girls in it. There are no other schools in Japan that can claim a uniform designed by the famous Hitachiin Label."
"Where did you find this huge crystal ball? I want one for my room."
"You'll have to ask the Scarecrow. Satoshi always organizes the cosplays."
I have no idea where my cousin got that thing, but I do know I want to skin those twins alive. A flying monkey? What were they thinking? I guess it could be worse. I could be a munchkin like the Alien, or they might have tried to dress me as a purple horse. Not that I would have let them. Still, this is revolting, as I heard one of the girls with Satoshi say.
.
We broke up the groups early so everyone could visit all the areas. Those crazy chicks were taking selfies with each of the hosts, the colored horses, in the poppy fields, everywhere. I don't have an Instagram account, but Bu does. It's anonymous and she only posts pics of her dog, but she follows all these other chicks to see what they're up to.
"Oh, Haruhi, I have to get a picture with you and Toto."
"Did you know this is Tamaki-senpai's dog, Antoinette?"
"Really? She's so cute!"
Then there were the three that had to sit on the lion's lap for a picture. Bu's going to just love that. Fuck.
"Satoshi, can you sprinkle some straw in my hair for our picture?"
"Tamaki-senpai, can we get a group picture with you of all of us eating that Jell-O stuff?"
And on. And on. And on.
Chicks…
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xXx
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Author's Note:
Standard disclaimer: I do not own, nor do I make any money from the following: Ouran High School Host Club, The Wizard of Oz, Jell-O, or the Olympics.
Taking Petto Chinmi Private…Basically, I want the company to be smaller, more focused, and it shouldn't be a publicly traded company anyway. That's just the way the girl Kyoya took if from had it set up. Now that they've decided to do this, I won't hit you over the head with details. But we do need to worry if Kyoya owns some of those stocks. All stocks must be bought back, or their owners made part owner of the company, based on their stock percentage. That will be fun.
What do you think of Tamaki's grandmother's decision? Was it really going to be anything else? I could have had her deny it to him and then they'd go through this whole big thing about getting married without the Suoh backing, but that's not the story I want to write. Dad came up with the compromise idea, and I came up with him moving into mansion #1. Hope it works for you all. Tamaki/Renge is my 'fairy tale' couple.
Yes, March 14 is Pi day…3.14
About Tuesday lunch…Haruhi got rather short with them all about her bentos. Remember, she's running on not a lot of sleep, still grieving her father, working too hard, and adjusting to her new lifestyle. It's only been a month or so since she moved home. Besides, I don't know about you all, but if I had to put up with those idiots for extended periods of time without real breaks, I'd be short with them too sometimes.
And I got Haruhi on a treadmill. Now if I could only get my fat ass on one.
Totally enjoyed 'The Wizard of Oz' cosplay. I know a couple of you have suggested other anime or mangas, but if I haven't used them, I'm not familiar enough to do them justice. All the facts about the movie are real – at least according to the internet. After reading some of that shit, I'm surprised the movie ever got made.
(1) This is a reference to the "Humans are Space Australians" topics I see all over Tumbler. If any of you have written those – thanks. I laugh at and totally enjoy all of them, especially the 'stabby' ones. I don't own any of them.
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Next Chapter:
The Host Club discusses their trip, camping, and other things, then goes out to dinner.
And a big date night on Thursday!
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