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'

32. Chapter 32 - A Marathon?

Author's Note: Welcome back! Hope everyone is safe and well. Enjoy the next installment of our neverending story.

Disclaimer: Don't own it, never will.

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xXx

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Date Posted: 4/4/2020

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Next Phase - Chapter 32: A Marathon?

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Monday, March 21:

Host Club:

"Why are we meeting in the courtyard?"

"What do you think they've planned for us?"

The hosts haven't held the club outside since fall, and today is a beautiful day for it. I can hear several of the other girls speculating, but no one knows what we're going to be doing.

"Welcome! Ladies if you'll follow me, The Ouran High School Host Club has a huge surprise for you."

Tamaki-senpai led us down the courtyard, past the fountain, and towards the maze.

"Oh, how beautiful."

The breeze blew through the cherry tree branches, and the scent drew us in. An entirely new garden had been installed. Stone benches and lounges were softened with bright colored pillows, and tables had been set with tea and cakes.

"In honor of World Planting Day, the Ouran High School Host Club presents the school with this entertaining garden. Please enjoy."

"This is amazing."

"When did this happen?"

Kasanoda stepped up to escort his guests over to his section. "The gardeners put it in over the weekend. The Club decided that a permanent entertainment garden was needed. The stone tables, chairs, benches, and lounges will stay year-round and the cushions will be brought out when needed."

"The flower beds are so traditional. I love it!" one of us said, hands clasped together over her heart.

"Thank you, my princess," Kasanoda said, and kissed her knuckle. "It's my idea and design."

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It wasn't hard to talk Tamaki-senpai into the club sponsoring a garden. Just mention World Planting Day and how it will be a great setting for the chicks. I wanted to put in a koi pond for Haruhi, but the location wasn't the best for it and the gardeners thought maintenance would be too difficult. I think they're full of shit. We have one at the compound and our people know better than to complain about having work to do.

I thought about fish tanks for the club room and was going to bring it up this weekend. Won't work now that we're closing the club.

Not sure who's going to use this now either. Maybe the gardening club? Wonder if I could go back there now that I won't be in the Host Club anymore.

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xXx

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Ouran Library:

"I think we should set Haruhi-chan up with someone," Cho-senpai said.

Shit. That's a fucking terrible idea. After what that asshole Ootori did to her and her losing her father…

"Excellent idea. I've been trying to get Mori-senpai to ask her out since the masquerade ball," Keiko-senpai said, tossing her hair.

"Mori-senpai?" Yuki asked. "I thought you were trying to date him."

"Last fall, yes, but he's crushing on her something awful, and I want to help."

"Ah, I'm not sure that's a good idea," I broke in. I made sure I didn't sound like I knew something, but I want to protect her.

"Why not? She deserves to be happy."

"Damn right she does, but is she ready for it? She just lost her dad."

Renge, who also knows everything that happened, said, "Shinobu's right. Haruhi's going through a big change in her life. A boyfriend would only complicate it."

"But a boyfriend could make it easier," Keiko-senpai said.

By this time, Cho-senpai was way too excited. "So, besides Mori-senpai, who are the candidates?" She leaned forward and put her hands on the desk. "Does she like anyone? Does anyone like her?"

Yuki took a deep breath and blew it out, "Hikaru's mentioned a couple of guys. There's Osamu-san, one of her designees. I know he gave her some chocolate covered strawberries last year, and she was leaning on him at the last cosplay because of her heels."

"Yeah, he's cute."

"And nice."

"She also studies with a student from Todi. He helps her with her physics and she's his English tutor. She's studying with him today at the public library."

"Really? An older man?"

Bullshit. I've met that guy. He's not interested in her for anything other than friendship and English help. She's too young for him and he knows it.

I leaned back in my chair and waited to see if I needed to stop this.

"Yes. They met at the library. Isn't that romantic?"

"Ooooo."

Get a life. Haruhi's not going to go for him.

"There's one more," Yuki said. "She's been working with a dog breeder that she met at the bookstore. He's given her advise about strengthening and expanding her company and went with her to that dog show a couple weeks ago."

"He took her?"

"No. More like he tagged along. She went with representatives of the company and he showed them around."

"Oh."

"That must be the boy Honey-kun and I saw. Before Haruhi-chan came back to school after the accident, he brought some puppies over to cheer her up. I think he came over twice."

"That's him. He also took her out to dinner a week or two ago."

"Dinner? Like, as in a date?"

"Yeah, but it wasn't just dinner. They saw a movie too."

"Kaoru told me Haruhi didn't see it that way."

We all kinda looked at each other, and I finally said, "She's oblivious."

"Should we tell her?"

"And if we're wrong?"

"Are we?"

"Just because a guy wants to take her out, doesn't mean he wants in her pants," I said. "It's possible to be friends with a guy and not end up liplocked."

Keiko-senpai nodded, "Just look at me and Mori-senpai."

"And Hikaru and me," Yuki said.

Renge spoke up, "So, it's agreed. We leave it alone and see what develops on its own. If she needs to be clued in, I'll do it."

I backed her up. "Works for me. Can we get back to this history chapter?"

.

That was close. Haruhi doesn't want anything to do with guys right now. After that horrible marriage contract, trying to force her to the ball, and then kidnapping her, Ootori's ruined her for boys for a long time.

She doesn't trust herself to make good romantic decisions, and I don't blame her. Ootori was her first relationship and he crushed her…several times. She needs to find herself again before she even thinks about a guy.

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xXx

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Public Library:

"I think you mean 'shuddered here instead of 'shuttered'," Fujioka-san said, pointing to a line in my rewritten story. "You're trying to say the spaceship shook from the impact, right?"

"Yes."

"Then 'shuddered' is correct. 'Shuttered' means closing it up, like closing the shutters on a house."

"Oh," I said and corrected the paper. My English has improved so much since she started helping me.

She's changed out of her school uniform and was wearing a t-shirt and jeans. Regular clothes, not some of that fashion stuff she sometimes wears. She looks cute. Like a kid. Like a younger sister.

I think my mother has lost it. Fujioka-san is too young, too sweet, and just not my type anyway. Plus, she's mom's BOSS! I considered it like mom asked, but the answer is no. Just no. Considering it any longer just feels creepy.

"I've made some other minor corrections, mainly grammar. It's a good story."

"Thank you, Fujioka-san. I appreciate your help."

"No problem. Now it's your turn. Can you look over this problem set and lab report?"

"Sure."

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xXx

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Morinozuka SUV:

"Thanks for running by the bookstore, Eiji. I'm taking many more notes than I realized to have run out of notebooks and finished up the ink in some of my pens."

"No problem, Haruhi-sama."

We're on our way back to the estate and waiting at a red light. The car next to us is a small, red sportscar. Looks a little like Ranka-sama's.

CRASH!

I tried to tune out the chatter in my earpiece while assessing the damage. We're not hit.

The car next to us had been rear-ended and it was bad.

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"Dad?"

That's his car. His car. Someone just hit him.

Someone just hit my "DADDY!"

I can't breathe. Daddy. Don't leave me. I can't see.

Don't leave me.

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"Dad," I heard Haruhi-sama whisper from the back seat. She's so white, she's translucent. Her huge eyes were open impossibly wide.

Then she screamed, "DADDY!" and I watched her crumple to the seat.

I jumped in the back seat and checked her pulse. "She passed out. Get her home now!"

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I drove as fast as I could while keeping Haruhi-sama safe. Since I was assigned to her, I knew to be careful. I never went fast. Never took turns too hard. Never stopped or started fast. I knew she was nervous in a car. Of course, she was. Her father and two others died in an accident she was in.

I heard Eiji in the back talking to his security team. "Let the house know what happened and that we're coming in fast. The gate needs to be open when we get there. It's up to Morinozuka-sama if she want to call their doctor. She had a shock and passed out."

"…"

"It's clear who was at fault, but we'll send a copy of your dashcam video to the police station. You don't need to stay behind. Talk to the security office when you get back."

She's only lived at the estate for almost two months, but I feel like I've adopted her. The poor girl. To see that happen again.

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xXx

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Haruhi's Room, Morinozuka Estate:

"She fainted. She'll be fine."

"Thank you, Doctor."

Where am I? Doctor?

"DAD!" I bolted up out of the bed and realized my mistake. "Oh, my head." Holding it wasn't doing any good.

Umeko-san was in front of me in a flash, holding my shoulders and looking straight in my eyes. "Everything's fine, Haruhi-chan. You're fine. You're in your room."

I looked around and saw Akira-san, Mori-senpai, Satoshi, the doctor, and Eiji. Then I remembered. "Accident?"

"Yes, sweetheart. It's alright. Come and sit down again."

That's when I realized I wasn't wearing pants. Good thing this t-shirt is baggy. She steered me to my bed, and I climbed back in. As she tucked the covers around me the doctor started talking. "Haruhi-sama, you saw a car accident and panicked. The panic attack caused you to pass out."

"And my pants?"

Umeko-san smiled, "I took them off, along with your shoes. I was alone in the room when I did."

"Thanks."

"Haruhi-sama," the doctor got my attention, "have you been taking your anti-anxiety medication."

"Yes."

"Hmmm. I'll suggest to your doctor that a larger dose might be needed." He handed me a pill. "I suggest you eat a light meal, get ready for bed, and take this to help you sleep. It should hold off any nightmares you might get."

"But I have homework…"

"Is any of it due tomorrow?"

Is it? I finished that problem set at the library. "No."

"Then it can wait. Everything can wait on your health."

"Thank you, Doctor," Umeko-san said. "I'll take care of her."

.

"That wasn't as hard I thought."

"She's exhausted and the pill helped."

Now that Haruhi-chan had eaten as was asleep, the eight of us were in the lounge discussing what do to next. Akira and I never had a problem like this with the boys, so the doctor stayed to talk us through it. The four boys were here along with Eiji.

"She gets better and then something happens. It's so hard to watch," Mitsukuni said, tears running down his sweet face. "Poor Haru-chan. It isn't fair."

"Life's not fair, Mitsukuni. How you deal with it shows your character."

"Yes, Uncle."

"When I was at the dog show, there was a booth for therapy dogs. Maybe something like that will help. You all saw how she grabbed that stuffed dog Tamaki-senpai gave her. It's like a lifeline when she's scared or troubled."

"There's a big difference between a stuffed animal and a pet, Son. She has so much stress right now, do you really think adding the care of a dog on top of all that is a good idea?"

"I'm not sure. Maybe the benefits will outweigh the work."

The doctor cleared his throat, "A therapy dog could be useful, but she needs actual therapy first, and most probably a medicine adjustment. I recommend talking to her psychiatrist about the medication and getting a recommendation for a PTSD/grief counselor. They will assess her situation and know if a dog will be helpful."

"We will, Doctor. Thank you."

"Thunderstorms."

"Takashi?"

"There hasn't been a thunderstorm since she moved in. She's deathly afraid, and I'm concerned it will be even worse after the accident and shooting."

"Phobias are notoriously hard to treat. Until she's really ready to work through that, I suggest a soundproof room in the middle of the house somewhere."

"An excellent idea," Akira said, standing up and shaking the doctor's hand. "Thank you for your help. We'll act on your recommendations right away."

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I should have been in the car with her. I'm her protector and I let this happen. There is no excuse.

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xXx

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Tuesday, March 22:

Morinozuka Koi Pond:

I don't understand. For a second, I thought that was Dad in that car. I thought someone hit his car. He's already gone. Why would I think that was him?

"Daddy," I said, looking at his picture. It was blurry. I'm trying to hold back the tears. "I'm sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me."

I heard a soft knock and turned to see Umeko-san in the doorway. "Nothing's wrong with you, Haruhi-chan. What you're going through is perfectly normal."

She came and sat down next to me, and I sighed out a choked sob. Her arm instantly came around my shoulders.

We sat there for a few minutes before she broke the silence. "The doctor suggested having your medication adjusted and finding you a therapist."

Shinobu said I'd probably need that. It's time to admit she's right.

"How do we find one?"

"Oh, Sweetheart," she whispered, tightening her grip on me, "I'm so happy you want to try. I'll find someone. Just one question. Would you prefer a man or a woman?"

"It doesn't matter. Gender doesn't matter as long as they can help."

"I'll find someone. We'll get you through this."

I curled deeper into her arms. "Thank you, Umeko-san."

Things felt better than they had in a long time. I'll get through this.

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xXx

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Dining Hall, Ouran:

Here they come. Will they look at the poster first or will they just ask me?

"Here are some donations for Go-Go Run, Chika. What is it?"

I sighed. At least they got the name before asking.

"Let me," Satoshi said in my ear. "Princesses, Go-Go Run sponsors a marathon every year to provide funding to Tokyo area children's homes."

"A marathon? That's really long."

"Yep. It's called the YouMeWe marathon, and it's being held April 23. I'm going to train for it. Anyone else want to join me?"

"That's about 42 kilometers. I can't run that far."

"I might if I trained. I run a lot for the tennis team."

"Chika, Taka, and Mitsukuni are training with me as well. It would be wonderful to have you join us."

"Does it have to be a marathon?"

"They do have other options. You can also walk or run a 5k."

"I think I'll run the 5k," Kasanoda-senpai said.

"I'll race you," Shinobu-senpai said back, and they smirked at each other.

"Stakes?"

"We'll think of something," she winked at him, and the girls turned red and giggled. Girls are strange.

"I'd like to walk the 5k, if you think I can, Satoshi."

"I'm sure you can, Haruhi-senpai."

With that, Renge-senpai and several others said they'd join her. "But only if we get the chance to practice a couple times before."

Haruhi-senpai smiled and said, "I'd like that. I'm sure we can find several places to train."

It's good to see her smile after last night. Must have gotten a good night's sleep.

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xXx

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Dog Park:

"Thank you for bringing me here, Naoto-san."

I smirked and said, "Technically, Haruhi-san, you brought me here." That blush is cute. "But I don't mind."

"Thanks for understanding. I don't go anywhere without Eiji."

"Yes," I laughed, "You two are a package deal."

We were tossing the ball for the dogs I brought. They'd been getting stir crazy with the weather and needed to run.

"I like this dog park," she said. "There's something more welcoming about it than the other one I went to."

"Glad you like it. How are things at the office? You were there this afternoon, right?"

"Yes. Right now, we're working on taking the company private which involves a stock buy-back. Do you own any?"

"Actually," I said, and her head snapped around, "I do. Just a few."

"Oh. I was just kidding. I didn't think you would."

"Why not? It's a great company." I threw the ball again and said, "Selling them back is no problem. Let me know how."

"I'll check with my Finance Manager. We haven't done an individual buy yet, just off the market." She took out a book and scribbled some things down.

"I could just sell them back to the market."

"Let me check first. I'm still learning about all this."

"Sure."

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After running the dogs through the obstacle course, they had had it. They joined us in the café. We ate dinner and they drank water and had treats.

Merging pet spas with my stores is a good idea, but I wish the dog parks were more feasible. Maybe in the future.

"Not bad," Naoto-san said.

"Yes, they're tasty." Nothing beats Ritsu's noodles, but these are good. We'd both gotten some ramen and tea. Something simple. Simple's nice.

"Have you made all the arrangements for the national dog show?"

"Yes. We'll have a double booth, we're sponsoring the snack station, and, since it's in Tokyo, I'm having all the staff come through at some point to see what it's like."

"Everyone?" he asked, his eyebrows rising.

"Everyone. Even if they only stay a couple hours. I'm hoping it breathes new life into the company and brings everyone closer together."

"I like it."

I reached down and ran my fingers through one of the dog's fur. So soft. It's like the stress just dissolves out of my fingertips.

"What about you?" I asked as I sat back up and attacked my noodles.

"I'll have a booth and one of my top show dogs will be competing." He smiled and rubbed his chin, "I'll be busy but will stop by and see you when I can."

"I'd like that. It will be so hectic, it will be good to see a friendly face."

"Won't your friends be coming?"

"I'm sure they'll all wander in at some point, but probably not to stay. Tamaki-senpai and Shinobu are the only ones with dogs, and neither are show dogs."

My leg jerked when I felt a nudge. Looking down, those sweet eyes gazed back up at me, begging for attention.

"Looks they're all rested up."

"Yeah. Let's throw the ball a little more and then take them home."

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xXx

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Ootori Conglomerate CEO Public Office:

Report on Ootori Yuuichi:

Arrived Switzerland with no problems. Estate ready with staff.

Has toured the city both on foot (in main shopping center) and in car (driving himself).

Spent every night so far out at a different bar. Checking out local fetish clubs without drawing attention to himself.

Status: Benign.

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Good, Yuuichi. Now you just have to stay that way.

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xXx

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Gym, Morinozuka Estate:

After Haruhi finished up her physical therapy, she joined us on the treadmills.

"Did you enjoy your dinner, Haru-chan?"

"I did," she huffed. "We ran Naoto-san's dogs to exhaustion and had ramen in the café. It was a nice, simple evening."

Simple. Something she craves but can't have now that she's living with us. But why can't she have it? As her protector, I should be able to simplify her life.

Now that she's taking Petto Chinmi private, I won't be on the board anymore. Perhaps I can become an advisor of sorts and help relieve her burden at work.

"Would you like a dog, Haruhi-senpai? We could get you one."

To our surprise, she laughed. "No, thank you, Chika. Too much responsibility. They require too much attention and care, and I wouldn't be able to devote as much time as I'd wish to. I'm sure I'd end up feeling guilty. I already have enough on my plate. Being around Naoto-san's dogs is plenty. They wore me out tonight."

Mitsukuni, Satoshi, Chika, and I exchanged a look. The last thing we want to do it make her feel guilty. The therapy dog is not an option.

"Besides, I could always visit Tamaki-senpai or join Shinobu at a dog park."

"Were you serious today at lunch about doing the 5k?"

"Yes but walking it."

"You'll need to work up to 5k on the treadmill, Haru-chan."

"I will, Honey-senpai. I need to be in better shape. Walking 5k isn't supposed to be a problem."

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xXx

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Wednesday, March 23:

Lunch at the Diner:

I met Haruhi-sama at the diner she requested. It was a strange place with strange food, but it's close to Ouran. I'm relatively new to the Morinozuka legal team. I suppose babysitting their ward as her personal legal representative is paying my dues.

"Have you found out anything about Jarou-san's son, Okamoto-san?"

I pulled out a stack of paperwork and gave her a report. "I've managed to track Jarou-san's life back to when he left his family. His residences and the people he associated with."

Our food arrived. She'd ordered a club sandwich, and I played it safe with the grilled fish. At least is smelled good.

"Learning about his time before he 'came out' has been difficult, as his family is not cooperating. They not only kicked him out, but disowned him, and are not acknowledging he existed."

"I worried that would be the case. The funeral announcement I sent came back unopened."

"Yes. They only returned my first call and slammed the door in my face when I visited their house." I took a bite of the fish and was surprised at the tenderness.

"I'll continue to investigate his past. I've also put out requests to find any marriage certificate or birth certificate with his name as the father. So far, I've only heard back negative answers, but that eliminates locations."

"Thank you for your efforts. I appreciate you looking into this."

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Lunch on Wednesday is not our usual time for the diner. Rin, that cook who threatened her is here for this shift. Unfortunately, I assumed he didn't work Wednesdays at all. From now on, I'll get his weekly schedule.

He's been watching Haruhi-sama, but I stationed an officer in the kitchen to watch him cook and make sure he didn't do anything to their food. We've been giving each other evil glares since I moved my seat at the counter to block his view of her.

I'm calling in an undercover officer to pose as a customer and stay until the end of his shift. If he's as stupid as I think he is, he might say something about his intentions.

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xXx

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Host Club:

I walked into Music Room #3 and said, "Shit."

"I know. It's another girly cosplay."

"Hey," my buddy elbowed me, "doesn't matter the theme, just what Haruhi's wearing."

"True. I need some inspiration for tonight."

We'd walked into a forest. Trees, a brook, a meadow, and some stuffed forest animals. What the fuck? Is that a unicorn?

"Oh, look! It's 'The Last Unicorn'! I love this movie," some girl squealed. Like I couldn't have figured that out from the movie posters around the room.

"Welcome."

"Honey-senpai, you're so cute as the butterfly!"

Actually, he looked like an idiot. Blue tights and body suit with blue and black butterfly wings attached to his back. Why's he wearing a white scarf and sunglasses?

"Princesses, gentlemen, allow me to escort you through the movie." He walked over to the bridge and continued, "The movie begins here, in the unicorn's forest. As the butterfly, I send her on her quest to find the rest of the unicorns."

He spun around, flapping those stupid wings. I always saw him as a little kid, but that bodysuit shows all those muscles from his martial arts. Fuck, he's cut. Wish I looked like that, but I'm lazy as shit.

"Follow me to our next stop."

Not sure where Haruhi is, but she's not here so we all followed.

"Join Mommy Fortuna at her Midnight Carnival. Gaze into the wagons and see a Manticore, Satyr, the Midgard Serpent, and the harpy Celaeno," Chika said. At least I think that's him.

I started laughing and soon had my arms around my stomach to ease the pain. Poor fucking Chika. What is he supposed to be? He's wearing a green dress with, what are those, animal skulls on his belt, and a brown cloak that looks like it's been run over by horses. The best is that gray wig and tree stump on his head.

Why the fuck would he wear that? He can kick all their asses. Probably at the same time.

"Stop!" I choked out at my buddies who were poking me, trying to get me to stop laughing.

"Shut up or Chika's going to kick your ass."

.

Finally, that jerk stopped laughing at Chika. How does Haruhi-senpai stand those guys. I think he's adorable at Mommy Fortuna, but the animals in the cages are scary.

The whole movie was scary.

"My good ladies," Mori-senpai said, "Please forgive the rudeness of our audience. It is an honor you are here."

"Why, thank you Schmendrick. You are too kind."

He led me over to a set of chairs where tea and cakes were set out. Several of Chika's and Mori-senpai's designees followed, along with Honey-senpai's. He said he'd be coming back here after the tour.

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"Please follow me to the next scene," I said and scampered through some trees. "It's Captain Cully's camp site."

Hika-chan is Captain Cully and Satoshi is Molly Grue. They make a cute couple.

"Welcome to our campfire. Please join us for beggars stew," Satoshi said. It isn't stew, it's tea, and there are cookies shaped as forest trees.

Several ladies stayed, and we continued on.

.

"You've reached the end of the story. Welcome to King Haggard's castle. I'm Prince Lir," Tamaki-senpai said, taking off his hat and bowing to our guests.

"Allow me to introduce my father, King Haggard." Ritsu bowed. "And, of course, the beautiful Lady Amalthea."

That's my cue. I came out from behind the clock and curtseyed. The twins dressed me a glowing, light pink dress and a long, white wig with loose curls.

Wonderful. I'm being stared at by my designees. I will not miss this once we close.

"Please join us ladies and gentlemen. We have tea, sandwiches, and cakes for you." I waved my hand toward a dining table filled with cups and plates, and we all sat.

.

OK, so going through all that bullshit was worth seeing Haruhi in that dress. Off the shoulders and just above her really small tits, she's got great fucking skin.

Shit. That yakuza is giving me a death glare. Thought he was dating that yakuza girl.

.

That dick, staring at Haruhi that way. Am I going to school with a bunch of fucking horny stalkers? At least those two other guys are being respectful.

I'd never seen this movie before. No surprise. It's kinda a chick movie. When they showed me the drawing of King Haggard, I almost punched those twins into next week. He's the ugliest bastard I'd ever seen.

I ended up looking quite distinguished with a gray beard and hair that were closely trimmed. My costume didn't look like it was found at the bottom of a garbage pile and they tailored it to fit. Might have to wear this for Bu one day, minus the wig and beard.

Tamaki-senpai, as Prince Lir, looked royal, of course. He'd settle for nothing less. Chika's costume's the worst. It's horrible.

I'm going to have to watch this movie. The mural behind us has a fucking huge red bull on the beach with a crapton of unicorns in the surf. Was someone high when they wrote this?

"Would anyone like some wine?" Kaoru asked from the back of the sofa. He was dressed in black with a skeleton stitched on. The skull loved wine.

"Is everyone getting ready for finals?" Haruhi asked. She's trying to change the subject and stop them from looking at her chest, so I answered.

"Getting closer. Geometry's going to kick my ass, but I'll be ready for everything else."

The guests went on and on about their different subjects as Haruhi served up the tea. This is going to be a boring day.

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"Hikaru-senpai, that's an odd-looking tree," one of my designees said.

"Have you seen the movie?" She shook her head. "Well, in the movie, Captain Cully ties Schmendrick to that tree and when he uses his magic to get out, he ends up waking the tree up into a 'woman' and she basically goes crazy for him."

"How strange."

"The movie has some strange parts, but overall, it's so romantic," one of my other princesses gushed. "You'll have to see it."

"Don't worry. Everyone will receive a copy of the movie and a stuffed unicorn on the way out."

"How wonderful," she clapped her hands. "My niece and I can watch it together."

"Satoshi, are you ready for your competition this weekend?"

"I sure am. I've been doing extra training. This might be the weekend I beat Taka!"

"I'll be watching! We'll miss you at Neon."

"We'll have to go some night next week for sure!"

Satoshi's becoming Ouran's biggest player. Hanging out at Neon and other places with tons of girls. I started following his hashtag and there are dozens of pics posted every time he goes out.

Maybe I should join him one night. I could use a night of carefree dancing and maybe kissing someone in a dark corner. Everyone else has someone.

.

I can't take this stupid tree stump hat anymore, so I took it off and tossed it behind the cage with the harpy. "Better," I sighed.

"Definitely," one of my designees said. "You looked ridiculous. Besides, now that we all know who you're playing, you don't need it."

"Thanks." I raked my hands through my hair several times to get rid of the feeling of that hat and wig. I'm going to kill those twins.

"You both have a competition this weekend, right?"

"Yes. The kendo competition is in Frankfurt, and Brussels is hosting karate."

"And you'll both win," said a girl. She clasped her hands together and held them to her chest while her eyes sparkled. Girls are weird.

"Of course, we'll win. The three of us are going to the Olympics for sure."

"Hn."

"We'll be watching the live-stream."

Several of them nodded.

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xXx

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Meeting and Study Session:

The meeting was quick. We decided to not tell the girls about the club closing until much closer to the end of the school year. We didn't want it to leak.

Now, I'm taking notes while asking them for end of the year ball ideas.

"How about a spring ball?"

"Naoko, it is a spring ball," Kaoru-senpai said.

"Yes, but as the theme. All the girls could dress as their favorite flowers and the boys in dark green or something."

"Not sure about the guys, but I don't want to dress as a stupid flower."

"I think it will be fun, Shinobu. It doesn't have to be a costume of a flower, just your dress resembling it."

"Oh. That's not so bad."

"It's an amazing idea," Tamaki-senpai said, throwing his arms wide. "We'll decorate with flowers everywhere and ivy and topiaries and garden benches and…"

"And we can have candy shaped like flowers and cakes with hundreds of frosting flowers everywhere."

"That sounds delicious, Honey-kun," Cho-senpai smiled at Mitsukuni and he blushed. I wonder if my aunt and uncle have approached her parents for a marriage contract.

The ideas kept coming and I listed them under a couple different categories: Doable, Stupid, Expensive, and No Way. The 'No Way' section grew every time Tamaki-senpai opened his mouth, and the 'Expensive' section grew when Renge spoke. Fortunately, every idea Haruhi-senpai had went under the 'Doable' heading.

Finally, Kasanoda-senpai stopped the ideas by asking for help with his English. About time. I need to do my trigonometry.

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xXx

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Dinner at the Diner:

It's a good thing Haruhi agreed to the interview. Those fans went nuts when she came in. They called her spoiled and rich and were taking pictures. I'm sure those will show up on Twitter and Instagram.

Shit.

The Haninozuka's, Morinozuka's, and Haruhi are all gone this weekend. I need a meeting with all PR people, Hika, and Mom. We'll pick the interviewer and magazine, approve a list of questions, and draft some answers for Haruhi to edit. We'll have it all on Monday.

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xXx

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Thursday, March 24:

Early Morning, Morinozuka Estate Gym:

"Why are we doing this so early in the morning?" Haru-chan asked. She's grumpy. Probably not enough sleep. Aunt Umeko said she'd make her sleep this weekend.

"We're leaving today after school. Won't have time."

"Whatever."

Her physical therapist put her through her stretching, resistance exercises, then massaged her arm. She's using it more each day. She still should have had a pink cast.

.

Can't wait for this competition. I'm going to kick some serious butt.

"Is there anything specific I should pack that I probably didn't think of?" Haruhi-senpai asked.

Chika listed a few things. "You'll be going out for dinner at least once, so bring two nice things to wear. For the competitions, nice, casual clothes such as jeans and a blouse. Might want to pack a raincoat. Never know what it could do over there."

When did he become a fashion expert?

"Thanks, Chika. I'll add another dress, and that should be it. Do I need to worry about the weight of the suitcase?"

"Why would you worry about that?" Mitsukuni asked.

"There are weight limits for airplanes, aren't there?"

"Not private planes, Haruhi-senpai. Bring whatever you need."

"Thanks," she panted. Got to keep her on the treadmill.

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xXx

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Morinozuka Private Jet:

"Rich bastards," I mumbled. The plane is huge! There must be twenty windows on each side. Why in the world would they need something this big?

Then I remembered all the people in the three limos that were going. Mori-senpai, Satoshi, their parents, Honey-senpai, Chika, their parents, four security officers including Eiji, a couple of personal assistants, and all that luggage.

When we got on board, I realized there were two pilots and two fight attendants. It will be a full plane.

"Let's all find seats in the lounge or dining area," Umeko-san said. "Security and the crew will use the forward seating area, and we'll use the study in the rear for meetings or studying. Just because you five are going to Europe, doesn't mean you don't have to do your schoolwork."

I don't know about the boys, but I brought my schoolwork and some Petto Chinmi things that need to get done.

I chose the dining room and pulled out a business journal as soon as we sat down.

.

After a few hours of flying and dinner, I decided it was time to have a talk with Haruhi-chan. She's still at the dining table with Takashi. The other three boys are in the lounge or study.

"Haruhi-chan, may I speak with you?"

She closed her book and looked up at me, giving me her full attention. "Of course, Umeko-san."

"You know Honami-san?" I asked, gesturing to the maid.

Haruhi smiled, "Yes, I do. Honami-san does an excellent job keeping my room clean."

"She and I would like to talk to you about a proposal we have."

"Mother, would you like me to give you privacy," Takashi asked.

"No. You can stay."

"Hn."

I sighed, trying to decide how to start this conversation. I'd played it through several times and didn't think any of them would work. Haruhi-chan appreciates truth and getting to the point. I'll do that.

"Haruhi-chan, last weekend when Aoi and I went into your room to discuss bookcases, I saw your ToDo list on your desk."

Her face and neck flushed a deep, blotchy red, and she looked down at her hands on her lap. I knew that would embarrass her, but that's strong shame.

I put my arm around her and said, "You have nothing to be ashamed of, Sweetheart."

"There were some private things on that list. I'm sorry you saw it," she mumbled after she put her hands over her face.

"It could be considered a breach of your privacy, but I'm not sorry I saw it. Putting aside the personal things, which we won't discuss now or ever if you don't want to, there were things on that list that you don't need to be responsible for."

Her glassy eyes locked onto mine. "I don't understand."

"For instance, if you need socks, they can be ordered, or someone can be sent for them. The same for notebooks and pens." I squeezed her shoulder, trying to relax her. "You are a very busy person. You are almost a third-year in high school, you own your own company, you are now the face of Kaoru-kun's fashion line, and you have a necessary social life. Anything that can be done for you, should be."

"But…"

"You also need to stop doing things that others are responsible for," I broke in gently. "It's Honami-san's job to clean your room, not yours."

There's that blush again, though not as deep.

"I know it's a habit, but Honami-san is being paid for that work, not you."

She turned and said, "I apologize, Honami-san, if I've offended you. That was not my intention."

"No need to apologize, Haruhi-sama. You're a good person and very thoughtful, however I enjoy my work and would like to help you."

Haruhi-chan bowed her head and nodded. "I'll do my best to not clean my room," she smiled.

Now for the hard part.

"Now to our proposal. Honami-san and I have worked out an arrangement with her schedule that allows her to be a personal assistant to you part-time."

"Personal assistant? I don't need a personal assistant, Umeko-san. I appreciate the thought, but I can do my own work."

"I know you can, but why do it all when you don't have to? There are things you do that anyone can. If you let those go, you'll have time for the more important things. The things only you can do."

"I don't want to impose on Honami-san. She has her own responsibilities."

"It's not an imposition. I want to help you, Haruhi-sama. You don't know this, but I'm taking night secretarial classes. By assisting you, I could apply things I learn in class to real time situations."

"How is buying my socks going to help you?"

"Well, maybe not that, but I anticipate you'll find more for me to do as we go along."

I watched Haruhi-chan look over at Takashi who gave her a slight nod. We gave her time to think about it.

.

A personal assistant? I already have a personal lawyer, public relations person, financial manager, and security team. This is ridiculous. What on that list besides the socks and notebooks could she possibly do for me?

She can't do my homework or my Petto Chinmi things. Besides, I have an executive assistant at the office. I keep my own calendar. What is there for her to do?

"Haruhi-sama, when Umeko-sama read me some of the things on the list, there were a few things I noticed I could help with. I could address the grief card responses and do your shopping. I also could manage your closet and pick your clothes for the day. I know we'll find more."

I don't need…then I looked at Umeko-san's face. She did her best to hide it, but she was anxious. She was biting the inside of her cheek, and her foot was tapping.

How can I be grateful to the Morinozuka's if they keep giving me more things to be grateful for?

I stared out the window, watching the clouds go by. My first time in an airplane, and it's so strange. Not a normal trip at all.

I guess I'll be grateful by accepting things graciously. "Thank you, Umeko-san, Honami-san. I appreciate your offer and help. How do we start?"

Umeko-san's expression changed immediately. She grew a big smile and started talking with her hands.

"I'm so glad you agreed. Sometime on the flight, you two should sit down and talk about the best way to work together."

"Sounds good. Honami-san, do you mind if we wait a few hours? I need to finish this and maybe take a nap."

"Of course, Haruhi-sama. Whenever you're ready I'll be in the forward seating area."

"Thank you."

.

xXx

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Frankfurt, Five-Star Hotel, President's Suite:

"The President's Suite has four bedrooms, so you kids can take your pick. We'll have two security officers stationed in the suite at all times. They will answer the door."

"Yes, Father."

"There's still a few hours before breakfast. Try to take a nap."

I followed Satoshi and Haruhi up the stairs to the bedrooms. Haruhi selected the smallest. When I told her she didn't need to, she said, "Mori-senpai, you and Satoshi are competing and need your rest. Besides, I'm half your size. I'll fit in the smallest room better." She flashed me a smirk and shut her door.

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xXx

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Question:

Can anyone use the private messaging on their phone with the FF ap? I've got an android, and it's never worked. Recently, I stopped getting email notifications when I had a new PM, so I don't know to check on the computer. I only log into FF on my laptop once a week to post, so if I haven't responded to a PM, that's why.

Any ideas?

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Author's Note:

Another panic attack for Haruhi…but don't worry. She'll be getting the help she needs very soon. This is the final push for her.

Go-Go Run and the YouMeWe marathon are real charities in Japan. I made up the date and added the 5k. I wanted Haruhi to participate, and there's no way she'd run a marathon. This way some of the girls can join her.

Looks like the therapy dog is a no go. I'd seriously considered it, but Haruhi's right. If she didn't take care of it herself, she'd feel guilty passing that off to a maid or something. Plus, it was another character I'd be juggling, and they'd be in almost every scene with her. Naoto-san's dogs are there if she needs them.

Ideas for Jarou's son? I know where I'm going but might be able to incorporate some from you.

Sorry if the cosplay was a little weak. I'd just rewatched the movie and thought I'd give it a try.

So, about the final ball…I have no idea if I'm going with flower dresses or what. Theme ideas? Or special things to have there? For some reason, I'm just blocked for ideas.

A personal assistant for Haruhi seems to be needed, but I didn't want to have one committed to her full time. They'd never have enough to do and she'd be guilt-stricken not keeping them busy. This is the compromise I came up with.

The plane is real. It's a Boeing Business Jet II. I found one for sale on the JamesEdition website. Take a look – it's insane. A bed room, shower, etc. There are several out there with slightly different floorplans and amenities. I used the pictures from the sale posting to write the scenes on the plane. There's a slide show with 35 pics. Rich bastards.

Disclosure: I don't own or make any money from 'The Last Unicorn' or Boeing. I just pulled them into the story for fun.

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Next Chapter:

Karate and Kendo world cups. Haruhi goes shopping. And a BIG surprise!

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