The Place Where We Belong

Katekyo Hitman Reborn! Fanfiction

Female Tsuna


Summary: Reborn's opinion of Sawada Iemitsu is that the man is a complete fool. Everyone knows this. Reborn should have known better than to take Iemitsu's words in face value. But he didn't think he would fuck up this bad. In which Iemitsu's child is not a dame middle schooler but an adult woman with a life of her own. They really, really need to check the inside of Iemitsu's head.


Disclaimer: I do not own KHR

Warnings: Lots of OCs, grammar mistakes, typo.


CHAPTER 10: Surprises


"I said it before and I'll say it again. How did this become your life, Setsuna-chan?"

"Iemitsu."

Teacher and student are doing warmups together at the barre. Setsuna want to show Masumi-sensei her routines so far and song selections. Reborn was with them just earlier. He left to visit his favourite coffee shop in the area.

"First Gokudera-kun, and then Flames, and Reborn's ex who coincidentally is also Gokudera-kun's sister showed up. What's next?"

"Please don't say anything more, Sensei," Setsuna grimaced. "I have this feeling that you'll jinx it."

Masumi-sensei closes her mouth. "Hm… Good call, Setsuna-chan." She changed the topic. "How is Lambo-chan? I heard he tried to help you and his… Ah, teenage self got hurt?"

It was a bizarre experience to explain the Ten Year Bazooka to the elderlies. Reborn vouched that it's the truth. So are the the Disciplinary Committee members who were present during the commotion.

Setsuna grimaced some more. "Yes, he did… And I have absolutely no idea if Teenage Lambo is cured."

"I hope he is well," Masumi-sensei said softly. "What do you have in mind with the child?"

"Hm?"

"Lambo-chan. He entered this country illegally, didn't he? That makes him an alien… And leaving him behind with your mother is…," She didn't finish.

The figure skater is silent for a moment. "I'm working on it at the moment, Sensei. I'm saving money so Lambo can move in with me… I don't know what sort of arrangement Iemitsu had with the Lambo's Famiglia, but it's safe to say that Lambo can't back out of it. He's stuck with me. It's worse for him because he has no idea. There will be a lot of paperwork to be dealt with in the future."

Masumi-sensei frown. "You mean… You want to adopt him?"

"In the future," Setsuna confirmed. "Lambo's biological family pretty much abandoned him. It's either living in the streets or orphanage. But Lambo still retain the mafia mindset, on top of children's short sightedness. He won't make it. Maybe someone else would adopt him but I don't think it will happen anytime soon."

"Why must you take responsibility, Setsuna-chan? First Gokudera-kun and then Lambo. There is no guarantee there won't be more. Are you going to adopt all of them? I don't think you can balance between a single parent and an athlete. Moreover, people will notice," The ballerina shakes her head. "What if it's a ploy to get you into the mafia? Make you too attached to the kids and you have no choice to join the underbelly to keep them safe."

"It's a possibility," Setsuna acknowledge her point. "But I'm already related to the strongest and the biggest of them all. Can't get any deeper than that."

Masumi-sensei observe her. "Are you sure it's not because the kids remind you of your past self?"

Setsuna lowered her leg. "What do you mean by that, Sensei?"

"These children have similar circumstances as you. Different, but have enough similarities to make you relate to them. You won't be able to ignore them, even if you tried. You picked them up and become their replacement parental figure. Even to your detriment."

"That's right," Setsuna answered. Masumi-sensei blinked. She half expect her student to deny it. "Lambo and Gokudera-kun need a parental figure in their lives. My mother think of the former as amusement or something to pass the time with. Almost like… Like a pet," She grimaced at her own words. "Gokudera-kun has been treated badly by adults for most of his life. They are at the age that they need someone to care for them. That's also why I don't accept them as my Guardians. No mother want to see their children in danger after all."

"Already referring yourself as a mother now, Setsuna-chan?"

"What can I say? Maybe in the future they'll call me Mother Goose," They chuckled at that. When it died down, Setsuna looked at her ballet instructor somberly. "When I was little, not much older than Lambo now, I wished Kaa-san is a bit more like Hana-chan's and Kyouko-chan's parents." Even though she was really young, Setsuna can already tell that Nana is not quite there. "I felt awful to compare Kaa-san with theirs… But I can't help it. Kaa-san is… Too different compared to the other moms. Not good different. And the other kids still have their fathers. I really wanted that. Someone to take care of me. Someone I can trust. Someone who understand me. And I guess, someone who give me their undivided attention. Someone who I don't have to share with. For a time, I wanted that person to be you, Sensei. But you have so many students to take care of, especially Kyoko-chan."

Masumi-sensei didn't say anything. She just listens.

"And then Tou-san came along," Setsuna said softly. "He changed my life for the better. I want to do the same for others. Everyone deserve that. I want to be there for Gokudera-kun and Lambo, like how Tou-san was there for me."

"What if it's too much for you?"

"I will be okay," Setsuna smiled. "I got you, Tou-san, Kyouko-chan, Hana-chan, Tsuyoshi-jii and everyone else. I'm not alone. And I knew better now."

"I'm still worried."

"I know," Setsuna's gaze softened. "I'm worried too."

The room fell silent, until Masumi-sensei break it. "That's enough warm up. Now, what about those choreographies?"

It wasn't the most subtle attempt to change the topic but Setsuna take it anyway. "As you know, my theme for this year is Dream. I want the two programmes to contrast each other. The short program will be about childhood. Childhood dreams, if you will. The free program is about adulthood. I narrowed down the songs already." She hand over her Mp3 player to Masumi. "The costumes will be contrasting as well. My costume for the free program should be something mature. Something a grown up would wear… I'm thinking a little black dress."

"Your theme is a bit similar to Metamorphosis. Be careful," Masumi-sensei said as she look over the playlist. "Which one do you like the most?"

"Clara's Solo from the Nutcracker for the short program and Journey's Don't Stop Believing for the free program," Setsuna grinned sheepishly. "And yes, I was a teensy tiny bit inspired from Glee."

"I think those two are solid choices," Masumi-sensei smiled. "Tell me more."

"I want the short program, Childhood, to be based on ballet… Since ballet is the beginning of everything. I wouldn't met you or my best friends if it weren't for ballet. And the Nutcracker is my favourite. What can I say?" She grinned. "Also… Back then, Kyouko-chan, Hana-chan and I would peek whenever the senior students are practising. We wanted to be able to do everything you guys do. To wear pointe shoes. To be able to jump that high. That flexibility… That moment you danced in front of us for the first time? Simply magical." Setsuna smiled at the memory. "And every year, new kids come in. Like the kids before them, they will secretly watch the seniors. Each wanting to be like that when they're older. That is a dream."

Kyouko was driven near tears when she discovered the younger ones have been secretly watching her dance. Like Setsuna, Kyouko was having an internal battle at the time. To continue dancing or give it up altogether. Her family has money but they hesitate to send her off to a dancing school. It doesn't have to be Tokyo. It can be the one in Osaka or Nagoya. Kyouko has good grades. She can get scholarship. Kyouko is a good dancer. The best in their generation. In Namimori that is. Dancers from bigger cities, with better facilities, more spotlight and harsher competitions, they are intimidating. Kyouko was able to get a glimpse on them in real life when the girls went to Tokyo. Suffice to say, she was cowed.

Masumi-sensei told her not to worry about her competition. Kyouko has the determination, skills and talent. Why does it matter that she came from a small town like Namimori. But Kyouko remain indecisive. To be fair, she was a teenager at the time.

Setsuna was looking for Masumi-sensei so she can look at her choreography, when she found a handful of girls crowding in front of the door. When she joined them, it was then she saw her best friend. It was an afternoon like many others. Kyouko retreated to the training hall for senior students. She danced the Odette solo and coda from Swan Lake Act 2, her favourite pieces. The room glowed orange from the sunlight coming through the window. There was no music. Only Kyouko and her shadow.

It felt like deja vu. Only the roles are switched. Kyouko is like Masumi-sensei for these little girls.

They are the push Kyouko needed for her to pursue her dream.

"There will be thousands of little kids watching me skate. I want this program to be the push they needed to chase after their own dreams. It goes for the teenagers and grown ups too," Setsuna paused. "What do you think?"

Masumi-sensei smiled. "I think it's wonderful."


The days passed by and it's Sunday again. Nothing major happened during the week. They had three more Dying Will Flame training sessions. Setsuna would be left sore and exhausted afterwards but that's nothing new. The kids are throwing themselves to study, since end of terms exam is coming. Gokudera is not bothered. It was clear that his intelligence is well above his peers. Setsuna and Tou-san had a meeting with a sponsor just two days ago, and a photoshoot just the day before. All in all, it's been a productive week. Almost peaceful even.

Knowing Reborn and the mafia, it won't last long.

The two of them are on their way to the Sawada residence, as usual. Reborn is walking on the fences, as usual.

What is unusual this time, is that there is a girl standing in front of Reborn. Right on top of the fences.

"H-hello," the girl greeted him, blushing. Setsuna eyes her wobbling legs.

"Ciaossu," Reborn looked nonplussed.

"My name is Miura Haru," She introduced herself. Haru appears to be around her kids' age…

"I know you. You live in that house, right?" Reborn pointed to a house next to them. Haru smiled wider and nodded.

"Would you be my friend?" Haru asked shyly.

"Sure."

"Ha-hieek!"

Did this girl just swooned?!

Haru lost her balance from all the excitement but she managed to land on her feet. "Wo-hoo!" She throw up her arms in the air.

…This girl… Does she have a crush on Reborn? That reaction of hers is not normal.

"Um…" Haru looked at Reborn again. "I know it's sudden… But can you hug me like this?" She wrap her arms around herself.

...even Reborn looked puzzled at that.

"Don't touch me so easily," Reborn pull out his gun. "Because I'm a hitman."

Haru's jaw dropped.

Next thing she know, Setsuna is dodging Haru's hand.

"What are you-"

"You meanie! What are you teaching him?" Haru glared at her.

"You-"

Haru didn't give her a chance to even finish. "Babies are angels with pure white heart!"

"Reborn is not a baby!" Setsuna snapped at the younger girl. "He may look like that but he's not!"

"You're lying!" Haru move to grab her shirt but Setsuna dodged just in time. "Why would you make up such a lie about your sibling?"

"We're not siblings."

"Liar! I saw the two of you walking together every Sunday!"

"No, we're not," Reborn supported her.

Haru looked at her aghast. "You kidnapped someone else's baby?!"

What is this girl saying?! "How did you come up with that conclusion?" Setsuna stare at her incredulously.

The younger girl ignored her. "You dare corrupt someone else's baby?!"

"Not listen here-"

Haru gasped out loud. "Aren't you that famous figure skater? Sawada Setsuna?"

"Yes, I am her. But that's not the issue here."

"I can't believe Nagi-chan would admire someone like you!" Haru shouted in disbelief. What? Nagi-? "Someone who turn babies evil!"

"Miura-san!" Setsuna snapped at her. "Reborn. Is. Not. A Baby," She said the words slowly. "We have our own circumstances, which is none of your business. How do you even know Reborn's name anyway?"

"I heard it from the neighbours."

Neighbours? Oh. It must be Nana. Word travel fast around these parts.

"Look, Miura-san," Setsuna looked at her patiently. "You can't impose your beliefs on others. It's rude. And throwing punches at someone without giving them a chance to explain themselves is problematic."

"Babies are angelic beings with pure hearts!" Haru glared at her. "Just because you're a famous skater doesn't mean you can get away with it!"

"...Get away with what?"

"Corrupting babies with your rotten heart!"

"This again? You're like a broken record. Miura-san, Reborn is not a baby. He looks like one, but he's not. Have you ever heard of systemic hypoplasia? It's a case of underdevelopment. Reborn is basically a man whose body never grow. He is much older than me."

"Hahi?"

They both turn to Reborn. "I'm a hitman." That is all he have to say, neither denying or confirming it.

"You evil…" Haru's glare worsen. "Listen! You shall not see Reborn-chan anymore! You're a bad influence! You wouldn't even let him act his age!"

"That' not possible," Reborn said calmly. "I have a job to train Setsuna. I cannot be separated from her till then."

Once again, Setsuna dodged Haru's fist. "I can't believe the lies you fed him! You even restricted Reborn's freedom!"

Just how thick is this girl?!

"Haru!" Someone from inside the house called out for her.

"Coming!" Hari shouted back. She give Setsuna one last glare, and a smile at Reborn, before heading inside.

"...What the fuck just happened?"


"Reborn, must you introduce yourself as a hitman everytime we meet someone new?"

"Yes."

Setsuna massaged her temple. "I don't know which one is worse. You pretending to be my relative or the truth. It's a pain to explain both."

"I'll say stick to the truth. Less lies to remember."

"You just like seeing me struggling."

"It is amusing to watch."

"Cazzo!"

"You're learning."


Gokudera's idea of a relaxing Sunday is a mug of coffee in one hand and occult magazine on the other. That or catching up with Setsuna-hime's fandom from his laptop. He would have a few tabs open at the same time. He also would chat with his fellow fans, though he speak more to Nagi. Somewhere along the way, their conversation deviate from Setsuna-hime and turn to occult. It turns out that Nagi likes horror movies. One evening they had a lengthy discussion about Japanese ghosts and other mythical creatures. Sometimes she would ask him about studying. Gokudera is always happy to lend her a hand.

This Sunday, Gokudera promised to tutor Nagi. Exams is coming soon. He already know the entire material like the back of his hand, so Gokudera can kick back and relax. The same cannot be said with others however. Baseball Idiot approached him a few days ago asking him to tutor him. He promised him sushi in exchange for his time. Gokudera would never turn down free food. He is saving money to buy a new fan at the moment. Summer in Japan is brutal.

"You're late, Octopus Head!"

...It still doesn't explain why Turf Top is here, at the family restaurant where Gokudera agree to meet up with Nagi and Baseball Idiot.

"What are you doing here?" Gokudera take his seat next to Nagi.

"I heard from Yamamoto! You're going to tutor him and Kudou! I want in!"

Gokudera glared at his classmate. To his credit, Baseball Idiot looked apologetic. "You're a third year!" He direct his glare to the boxer.

"You're the only one I can count on to teach me!"

"Why should I teach you!"

"I'm desperate here!" It's true. There is a hint of panic in his voice. The fire in his eyes is somewhat dimmed. "I need to pass these exams! My homeroom teacher said that I might not graduate with my current grades! I want to graduate!" He paled at the possibility. "I'm bad at studying! I need someone to teach me! No one in my grade is willing to to tutor me! You're my last hope!" Ryohei slammed his forehead to the table.

A concerned waiter approach their table. "Is everything okay here?"

"We're fine. We're fine…," Gokudera half heartedly glare at his upperclassman.

"Maa, Gokudera. Why don't you give senpai a hand?" Yamamoto pat Ryohei on the shoulder. "He had a rough month. More than half of the boxing club quit."

"What happened?" Nagi asked.

"After I talked to my sister, I realised that my behaviour had been inexcusable. I dragged many people to join the boxing club… against their will," Ryohei don't bother to lift up his head. "I just want to show them how great boxing is…"

There was no boxing club when Ryohei entered Namimori Middle School, so he form one. During his first year, he was the only member. He was given an unused storeroom but that was it. Ryohei has to clean up everything, bought the equipment with his own money and train by himself. It wasn't until he won a number of competition did the school agreed to set up fund for the boxing club and a ring. By the end of the year, Ryohei has an actual clubroom. On the spring of his second year, Ryohei was so eager to add more members to the roster he chased after so many first years. First, he watched the other sports clubs for promising students. Second, he approached them and badgered them to join. Third, he pretty much drag them to the clubroom so he can let them discover boxing with their own body. Not many first years stayed but Ryohei is just so happy that he is no longer alone. He did the same thing this year too.

But after talking to Kyoko-nee, Ryohei wonder how many of them that truly like boxing. So he called for a club meeting. He gave them a sincere apology for his forceful way. When he asked how many of them like boxing, there was hesitation. One by one, his juniors speak up. None of them liked boxing, save for a select few. When Ryohei asked them why they never speak up about it, their answer pained him.

"Because we're afraid that you will get angry and beat us up."

Is that how everyone think of him? That Ryohei will punch everything when he doesn't get his way. But what really get him is the way they looked at him.

Fear

His juniors are truly EXTREME afraid of him. They really believe he would EXTREME hurt them. Ryohei would never. Sure, he will be disappointed but he won't hurt them! Then again, he dragged them to the boxing club and yelled at them non-stop until they sign the club forms… Him resorting to violence when he didn't get his way doesn't sound surprising.

Ryohei is not that kind of person. He is neither a bully or a thug. Those are the people who bugged his big sister in middle school. He just…

They all looked at Ryohei as if he sprout two heads when he told them he won't get EXTREME angry if they quit. He didn't yell at them. He apologized for his behavior. Ryohei wish them luck and promise to back them up if they want to join other clubs. It's a bit late to join or change club at this point of the year… But he can't help but feel responsible. He had dragged these kids away from doing the things they love.

He really was Un-EXTREME all this time.

"I want to change," said Ryohei. "I have been so Un-Extreme all this time. I have hurt people. I never meant to, but I did. My sister even told me I acted like Sawada Iemitsu."

'Oh, shit,' Gokudera looked at Nagi and Yamamoto. That bad, huh?

"I don't want to hurt people. I want to be better. I want to make Kyouko-nee and Setsuna-nee proud. I need to make amends of my mistakes. I need to graduate," Ryohei looked up. His expression desperate. "Please."

Green eyes softened. It's not like Gokudera can't understand his feeling… "What's in it for me? Baseball Idiot here will treat me sushi in return."

"What about Kudou?" Ryohei glanced at the girl.

"She is much less annoying compared to you two."

Ryohei's volume dropped. He looked at Gokudera intensely. "I'll lend you home videos of Setsuna-nee when she begun ballet and skating."

Gokudera paused. That is a tempting offer. Pictures of Setsuna-hime when she was younger is incredibly hard to find. The only ones who have this kind of documentation are Coach Maeda and Setsuna-hime herself. Even Nagi and Yamamoto look alert.

"Deal," Gokudera grunted after a few moment passed. Turf Top brightened in miliseconds. "Pull out your textbook. Tell me which subject you have problems with."

Nagi take out her science textbook… While Baseball Idiot and Turf Top pull out their textbook for every subject. Nagi stares at them.

Gokudera's blood boil at the sight. "You idiots!"

This is not how he envisioned his Sunday will be.


Lambo is wearing the cow print suit. Again.

Nana had bought him new clothes and shoes but it appears Lambo refuse to part with his trademark suit. She has to try to persuade him to at least go to bed in proper pajamas. Her mother also bought Lambo new toys, per Setsuna's suggestion. Setsuna keep him company while Reborn is downstairs doing who-knows-what. They take refuge in her childhood bedroom.

"Wheeee!" Lambo raised his toy car up high. "Woooo!" And it descend sharply… "BAM!" And crash right into the building blocks. "Take that! And that! Bow before the great Lambo-sama! Gyahahaha!"

...boys…

"Lambo, be careful with the car. A true Italian man take good care of his car, no?" Setsuna pick up the fallen toy blocks.

"It's fine! It's not a Mercedes!" Lambo wave it off.

"But Mama chose that one, didn't she?"

Lambo froze. "Mama did…" After that he play with it more gently.

"Say, Lambo?"

"Mm?" He look up to her.

"Why did you go after Bianchi?"

"Bianchi?"

"The girl with the bad smelling food? The one who went after me last week?"

Lambo's eyes widened in realisation. "Oh! That's because it's a lord's job to protect his subjects! Like a boss taking care of everyone in his territory! Lambo has to protect Tsu-nee and Mama!" He place his tiny fist over his heart.

'Oh Lambo…' Setsuna pull him to her lap. "It supposed to be the other way around. It's my job to protect you. You shouldn't have to risk your life for my sake."

"But you're Famiglia," Lambo frowned in confusion. "Famiglia take care of each other."

"...You think of me as your family?"

"Yeah!" Lambo answered happily. "Mama is Lambo's mama! Tsu-nee is Lambo's sorella!"

Lambo already think of her like that? That really touched her. But Setsuna must keep her focus. "That's really sweet, Lambo. I think of you as my fratello too," Lambo grinned. "And it's also my job as the older one to take care of you. You don't have to come to my rescue every time."

Lambo frowned. "Am I annoying you?"

Setsuna's heart skipped a beat. "Where did you get that impression, Lambo?"

"Sometimes… When Boss and the others didn't know Lambo is there… They would talk about Lambo. They called me annoying. Annoying kids are bad kids. Bad kids are weak. And weak kids are not…," His lips tremble.

"I don't care about strengths, Lambo. I care about you," Setsuna cupped his cheeks. "Even if you didn't become a boss. Or failed to kill Reborn… It doesn't matter to me. I will still love you."

Lambo is silent for a moment before he look up to her. "But what if something happened to you when I'm not there to protect you?"

"Lambo, do you know why Reborn is here?"

"To tutor you?"

"That's right. That means I will learn more about the mafia. That includes how to fight and Flames. I have a lot to catch up on, but I won't be a sitting duck. I also have many people supporting me. And I support them back. That's how I will survive. Because I'm not alone."

"Like Guardians?"

Setsuna smiled. "Not quite like the Guardians mafia have in mind… These people are my friends and family. You don't necessarily need Guardians to survive. But having someone you can trust to watch your back is great," She hugged him closer. "Thank you for having my back that day, Lambo." She nuzzled to his hair. "And you are not annoying. Loud, yes, but not annoying."

Lambo hugged her back.

"Do promise me one thing."

"Anything!"

"Tell a grown up first before you're going to attack someone, okay? So we can coordinate with you. Make the mission much smoother." She doubt that Nana will take Lambo seriously... Or that she will contact her immediately... Maybe Setsuna should give Lambo another adult's number?

Lambo's eyes widened in understanding. "Report to mission control! Got it! Of course the great Lambo-san can do that!"


Setsuna

Wtf

Hana

Okay, if you start the convo with that, it's got to be bad.

Kyouko

Are you okay?

Setsuna

I'm fine

Reborn has an admirer

Hana

Okay, that's a good reason for a 'Wtf'

Continue

Setsuna

Her name is Miura Haru. I think she is Nagi-chan's upperclassman. She stopped us when we're on our way to visit Kaa-san. She asked Reborn if they could be friends… The girl actually climbed the fence to talk to him. And she practically swooned when Reborn said yes. She also got strangely excited when she asked him to hug her…

Kyouko

What an odd girl

Hana

Weird doesn't even cut it anymore, K

Setsuna

Reborn being Reborn, told her that he's a hitman. Next thing I know, Miura tried to hit me.

Hana

Why would she?!

Setsuna

Because according to her, I'll corrupt him with my rotten heart. Miura is very set with her belief that babies are angels with pure white heart. She accused me of teaching Reborn strange things.

Hana

If only she knew...

Kyoko

You did try to explain to her, right?

Setsuna

I did. She still won't believe me. Tried to hit me again.

Hana

I swear all admirers of Reborn have some screw loose.

Setsuna

Look, I'm tired of talking about the mafia/Reborn induced craziness in my life. Can we talk about something else?

Hana

Sure

Kyouko

The barista from the cafe across the ballet studio asked me out.

Setsuna

Oooh

Hana

Details! Is he cute? Did you say yes?

Kyouko

Setsuna

Mmmmm yes

He can put whip cream on me any day

Hana

I'll lick the whip cream off his body

Kyouko

Down, girls

We're going out this weekend

He won't say where, just told me to dress casual

Hana

You better consult to us first before you decide what to wear

Kyouko

Of course

What about you guys?

Hana

This rich kid from my class asked me out. Invited me to go clubbing with him.

Since he will be the one paying and I do need some time off, I accepted

Then I beat his ass on the dance floor under 5 minutes

Guy thought he's all the berries

In reality, he is just another monkey

Sets?

Setsuna

There's nothing going on

Hana

Not even a phone call from someone or something?

Setsuna

There are no male students in my university. And no one invited me to another mixer since last time.

Kyouko

Ah, yes

All the guys there wanted to talk to you and ignored the rest of the girls

Hana

Still, absolutely nothing?

Come on

You have so many hunks in your contact list

And don't you even think for one second I given up about the Olympics

Gurl I knew you get some while you were there

Tell us whooooo

Setsuna

(:

Kyouko

You must have flirted with someone

Setsuna

Sorry girls

What happened in the village, stays in the village


Midori Middle School is manageable. As long as Nagi keep her head down and be polite to everyone, she won't get into any drama. She thought that an all girls school will be much less chaotic, since there are no boys to stir up troubles. Oh how wrong she was. The drama can be unbelievable at times. There are times other people approached her because of who her mother is, but other than that, school is fine. Nagi likes her classmates and they like her back. She is also cordial with a few upperclassmen. For her, that is more than enough.

So it come as a surprise to Nagi when Miura Haru approached her with such hard expression on her face.

"Nagi-chan, can we talk? In private?" She sound to be on edge.

"Yes," Nagi readily agree. She like Miura-senpai. She is a bit of an oddball but really nice. She also know lots about pastries and fashion. Her senior had gave her tips about her costume in the past.

Miura-senpai led her to the back of the school building. "What's wrong, senpai?" Nagi asked.

To her bewilderment, Miura-senpai pulled her to a tight hug. "I'm so sorry!"

"Um?"

"To have such awful woman to be your senior, it must be hard for you, Nagi-chan!"

"Ano-"

"I understand if you can't say anything, Nagi-chan. Fame and all that. First Nagi-chan and now Reborn-chan! That awful woman! Don't worry! Haru will take care of it!"

"Senpai!" Nagi didn't mean to snap but Miura-senpai is not making any sense right now. And did she just say Reborn?! "What's going on?"

Miura-senpai loosen her hold on her. "Sawada Setsuna. She's horrible. She corrupted a sweet baby like Reborn-chan. She must have treated you horribly too, Nagi-chan. Haru will liberate both of you!"

Nagi hesitated. Coach Maeda had given her a lengthy lecture about the importance of keeping the whole mafia issue under wraps. How Miura-senpai found out about Reborn, she has no clue. But for her to call Setsuna-senpai horrible…? The dark haired girl steeled herself. "You misunderstood, Senpai."

"Hahi?" Miura-senpai blinked.

"I don't know what's going on… But Setsuna-senpai is a good person. And she is not corrupting Reborn-san. He is not a baby. Setsuna-senpai and Coach Maeda made that pretty clear. Reborn-san has a condition."

Miura-senpai let go of her. "Does that mean… Reborn-chan really is a hitman?! The real deal?!"

Nagi swallowed. "I-I can't say anything about that."

"So it's true?!"

"Uh…," Nagi just look down on her feet.

"I-I need to think about this. Thank you for coming with me, Nagi-chan. I… I'm just gonna go."

Nagi waited until Miura-senpai is out of sight before she take out her phone. She need to tell Coach Maeda. And Setsuna-senpai. Miura-senpai is nice but she is headstrong. Who knows what she will do? Nagi can't wait for a disaster to happen. She need to prevent it. Damage control is important.

Kazuki rubbed his temple. There is so much to do and the worst has yet to arrive. On Sunday he and Nagako revised a training plan for the staffs at the rink. After Bianchi infiltrated the place, it made him realise how weak the security is against the mafia. He will train the staff himself. As least his wife is there to keep an eye on Setsuna and Reborn when they train.

The novice and junior competitions are coming up. His children and grandchildren will be coming home this summer. There are discussions of Susumu and his family moving back to their home since he finished his Masters degree in Germany. They need to talk to the sponsors later this week. There are functions he and Nagako need to attend. These people never truly live down his retirement. How he gave up the family business and pass it along to his children to… Become a coach? How unusual. These people knew better than to say it to his face of course. Kazuki like to remind the world every now and then that he is a Maeda and a Hibari. He still serve the Hibari family to this day and let me tell you, it's not a walk in the park.

The last thing he need is another interruption.

Yesterday Nagi told him over the phone call that an upperclassman of hers from school has views about Setsuna. She is afraid that her senior might do something drastic. Setsuna confirmed his worry when she told him about her encounter with said girl last Sunday.

Fucking Reborn

That man has been a thorn on his side ever since he step foot in this town. He's also pretty sure Reborn built a hideout somewhere in the his territory. Sadly, there is nothing Kazuki can do to drive him out. Setsuna's life is at stake here. Reborn stays.

(And fuck Iemitsu)

Setsuna is still at the ballet studio. Kazuki wait patiently for what kind of choreography she come up with this time. He hope she pick something classical this time… Kazuki don't know if he can handle another sexy routine. This is the 21st century, yes, but he doesn't like men looking at his protege funny.

There is a knock on his door.

"Um…," A nervous staff poke his head in. "Coach, there's a… situation? I guess? At the entrance."

"Elaborate."

The staff flinched under his hard stare. "There's this girl… We think it's a girl. She is wearing a full set of armor… And just stood there. She said she's looking for Sawada-san. We told her that she's not here yet. The girl said she won't leave until she meet Sawada-san. She is adamant about that."

He has a feeling he know who it is. "Go back to your task. I'll handle it myself."

The staff's eyes widened and he stiffly nodded.

Kazuki went outside. There is a short figure wearing a full set of samurai armour, save for the helmet. They wear a motorcycle helmet instead. They have a hockey stick for a weapon.

"Miura Haru," He called out.

"Hahi?" Ah, so it really is her. She fumbled over the helmet for a bit before she manage to pull it off. "Who are you?"

"I am the one in charge of this place and coach to all the figure skaters here. What business do you have here?"

The girl straightened her spine. "I'm here to see Sawada Setsuna. I need to settle something with her."

"You didn't book any appointment with her and you're clearly not here to skate. Leave the premise immediately."

The girl is visibly unnerved by him but she steeled her gaze. This one got guts. Stupid, but gutsy. "I'm afraid I can't do that, Coach-san. This is important."

Kazuki give the girl a look over. It's obvious the girl didn't rest at all, judging from the bags under her eyes. And she wear such heavy armour under this heat? It's only a matter of time before she collapse. "And what is so important about this matter that it drive you to go this length?"

"It's about protecting pure, angelic souls such as Reborn-chan," The girl answered. "But if Reborn-chan is really a hitman, then Sawada Setsuna must be strong. If she can prove her strength, I will respect Reborn-chan's wishes and say no more about the matter."

Kazuki stared at the girl. She went from 'stupid' to 'delusional'. "It's time for you to leave," He declared.

"Haru is not leaving!"

"And I'm not asking."

Miura Haru glared at him. Kazuki narrowed his eyes.

"Senpai!" Nagi rush out from the building. She just finished changing when she overheard the staff talking about a weird girl in armour having a showdown with Coach Maeda outside. "Senpai! What are you doing here?"

Miura Haru's form lose a fraction of tension. "Nagi-chan…"

"Why are you doing this?" Nagi asked.

"I did this for Reborn-chan's sake… I was awake all night thinking about what he said. If he really is a hitman, that he can take care of himself… But I don't know what to believe! Is Reborn-chan really not a baby? But he's just so… Cute! Babies are supposed to be angels on Earth that we supposed to protect!"

"OH MY GOD!"

They all turn around to see Setsuna and Reborn standing there. Setsuna is pinching the bridge of her nose. "For the last time, Reborn. Is. Not. A. Baby!"

"I'm a hitman," Reborn added.

"You're not helping!" Setsuna put up her hands.

"Sawada Setsuna!" Miura Haru put her helmet back on. "Please have a match with me!"

Before she can say anything, the younger girl swing around her hockey stick. "Achooe!"

Setsuna dodged the attack. The younger girl fell to the ground. She didn't move.

"Miura-san?" Setsuna kneel next to her prone form. No response. "...she passed out?"


When Haru open her eyes, she is no longer outside. She is lying down on a bed. The blanket cover her lower half. There is a damp, cool cloth over her forehead. "Hahi…? Where am I?"

"Senpai?" Nagi's face came to view. "You're awake," She let out a sigh of relief.

"...Where am I?" Haru sit up.

"We're in the infirmary right now. You collapsed from heatstroke. Setsuna-senpai carried you inside."

"She did?" A weird feeling start to prickle inside her. Is this… Guilt?

"You were running around in those heavy suit under this heat," Coach Maeda has come over to her bedside. "That was incredibly stupid of you."

Chastened, Haru look down on her lap.

"How are you feeling?" Haru looked to her left to see Setsuna and Reborn sitting down on the plastic chairs. "You were unconscious for a while now."

"I'm still a little bit dizzy," Haru answered truthfully. "But I do feel better now."

"I'm glad," Setsuna smiled softly.

"...I'm sorry…," Haru looked down on her lap again.

"Do you still want to have that match with me?" The figure skater asked patiently.

"N-No… I was wrong. About you. You still carried me inside when I have been nothing but horrible to you. I'm sorry… And thank you." Haru give her a hesitant smile. Setsuna smiled back.

"As long as you learn your lessons now."

"Y-yes..." She is not angry? Truly? Haru had attacked her and Sawada Setsuna just forgave her like that? 'What a nice person…'

"We've contacted your parents. They will pick you up," Coach Maeda bring back her attention.

"O-oh… Thank you."

"We also have filled them in with the reason of your visit. Your father is keenly interested with what you have to say for yourself."

Haru's eyes widened in horror. "You told my parents?!"

"They are your parents," Coach Maeda said as if it's the most natural thing in the world. Yes, they are her parents but-! "They will be the one who will decide what your punishment will be. They obviously have been lax with your upbringing in the past. Today's events should make them reflect on themselves."

Haru would jump off the bed if she weren't feeling so weak right now. "My parents are good people!"

"Good people do not equate good parenting," said the elderly man blandly. You should not look far for an example. Take the Hibaris. While they are not evil, they are not the nicest people to be around with either. How they raise one Hibari Kyouya would raise several eyebrows, if not outright alarm. Sawada Nana have zero malice in her bones but she is not exactly one would call a good mother. "Miura Haru, your behaviour toward Setsuna is disgusting. You didn't take Reborn's word seriously, despite your claims that you care for him. You butt your nose in matters that are frankly none of your business. So yes, I'm questioning what sort of upbringing you had until now." Coach Maeda said coldly.

"I-I-" Haru can't think of a comeback.

"Nagi has spoken to me on your behalf. She vouched for your characters. I am still very much convinced but she tried so hard to defend you. So I will not ban you from the rink. But one more slip up…," He left the sentence hanging.

Haru swallowed. "Haru understand. Thank you, Nagi-chan." Her underclassman smiled shyly.

The door swing open. A staff entered the room, followed by a middle aged man wearing glasses. "Haru!"

Haru's chocolate eyes widened. "O-Otou-san!"

"Haru, I'm glad that you're okay but," Her father's eyes sharpened. "What in the world were you thinking?"

Haru whimpered.


"That was eventful," Reborn commented as they enter the supermarket.

"Ugh, don't even, Reborn. You were partially at fault here," Setsuna grab a basket.

"That was all Haru," He already scanned the aisles. "I'm craving cauliflowers for tonight."

Setsuna turn to the vegetables aisle. "You better bring cash with you today. I can't believe you threatened to shoot the barista when he didn't believe you own a credit card." That as a couple of weeks ago. Thank goodness a staff from the rink was at the same cafe and offered to pay instead.

"Sometimes my patience for idiocy can run thin. Especially when I have yet to have caffeine," They got in front of the cauliflowers. Reborn pick two up and study them, before dumping the one on the right into the basket.

"We are not obligated to fold to your worldview," Setsuna shot back.

Reborn ignored her, "Tomatoes."

"You're lucky we're in public space or I'll curse at you," Setsuna grab a plastic bag for the tomatoes. She could curse in French instead but it's the principle of the thing. "You know what? After the kind of day I had, I deserve to treat myself. We're having ice cream tonight."

"Sure, but first, dinner."

They get the rest of the ingredients they will need for tonight's dinner and tomorrow's meal. Setsuna make a quick stop at the hair care aisle to get her shampoo. Now they can go get her ice cream.

They went to the frozen food aisle. Popsicles, ice cream tubs, ice cream bars, mochi, cakes… There are so many to choose from. She should buy some for Gokudera. He is not much of a sweet tooth. Then again, Setsuna never see him eat any sort of sweets before. She should go for safe flavours like vanilla…

Setsuna bumped her shoulder to another shop goer. "Oh! Sorry!"

"No! No! I'm sorry!" The woman she bumped into apologized back. She has shoulder length auburn hair. Something about her seems familiar. Setsuna squints at her for a split seconds before her eyes widened in recognition.

"Shouka-chan?!"

"Wha- Setsuna-senpai!"

It really is her! Irie Shouka! Setsuna worked with her at McDonald's for two years in high school. Shouka is a year younger than her. She was saving money to go abroad. Some friendships are born from cleaning puke together, such as the one between her and Shouka. They also bond over music.

"Oh my God! It's been so long! You look so good, Shouka-chan!" Setsuna hold her hands. Reborn stay silent, wanting to see where this is going.

Shouka smiled. "I know! I'm sorry I didn't keep in touch! Things have been so hectic..."

"I'm sorry too. I'm also at fault here," Setsuna grinned sheepishly. "And you wear contacts now! Wow! You look so different! So mature!" Her praise got the younger woman to blush. "When did you return to Japan?"

"We got here two days ago, Setsuna-senpai."

"We?"

"Shouka!"

The two women looked up to see a tall man heading their way. He has long blond hair tied to a low ponytail. He is carrying a lot of marshmallow with him. When he got closer, Setsuna find herself staring to a pair of brilliant purple eyes.

Shouka smiled at the man before turning to Setsuna. "Setsuna-senpai, this is my boyfriend, Gabriel Gesso."


:DDDDDDDDD

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope this year will be kinder, softer and make much more damn sense to us

Haru don't listen to others well. She is quick to jump to assumptions, resort to hitting people when they don't agree with her beliefs, and crossed Tsuna's personal boundaries many times. And no one ever call out on her behaviour, save for Gokudera (not that it do much). I do believe that Haru is a good person, just misguided.

Considering Ryohei's insistence to get Tsuna to join the boxing club, who to say Tsuna is not the first to get treated like that? The boxing club doesn't seem to be a lot of members, as shown in the manga. How many managed to get away from him, I wonder?

This fan fiction is also posted in AO3

Thank you for reading

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