A.N/ HI! Thank you to all the readers! I love your support! I have a lot of personal stuff going on right now but I won't let it get me down! Thank you to Farrafelpies, Chibisensei110787 and browneis27 for your awesome reviews! Big thank you for Chibisensei110787 for all your reviews they cheer me up! The mystery kisser is revealed so please read and enjoy!
Chapter 16
There was no where else I could focus my attention. All my focus was on him. Him alone. His gaze was deep and sensuous. Amber eyes were full of raw emotion. They seemed to glimmer more radiately from the mellow glow of the fire.
Slowly, the distance between us was closing. All I could hear was the sound of my quickly pounding heart. How should I feel? Scared? Happy? Shocked? All the thoughts in my mind were racing at once.
" Close your eyes." HIs soothing voice whispered.
I shut them tightly and out of insecurity, I moved my hand to grasp the fabric of his shirt tightly. To my surprise Kaoru pulled my waist so I was closely pressed against his chest.
In surprise, I sharply gasped. That was the moment when he captured my lips. Unlike, the kiss in the dark, this was different. It was more meaningful. The guard I always tried to keep up around him crumbled away as I finally gave into my desires. I almost flinched as he suddenly placed his hand on my cheek and automatically, I leaned into the welcoming warmth of his touch.
He parted his lips and drew away. Sweetly, he placed a short yet lingering kiss on my forehead. He let out a long sigh and barely looked flustered. Meanwhile, I was trying to recover from the suddenness of the situation. I let out short shaky breathes. My grip loosened. Then when he looked at me, I immediately turn away trying to hide my embarrassed face by trying to curl up tightly in a ball. I wasn't this affected by my first kiss!
" Don't worry I won't go any further." He said faintly.
Softly, he grasped my right hand with his and stroked the back of my hand with his thumb in a circular motion. Relaxed, I rest my head against his chest and closed my eyes as I focused on the brisk thumps of his heartbeat. The security of his arms make me feel that nothing can disturb us. Just for tonight, I won't think about Nanami's order. For one night only, will I let myself be this close to Kaoru.
" You better not fall asleep on me." He causally joked.
" ...Of course I won't." However, my voice betrayed me as it was quiet and clearly groggy.
" Of course you won't." He chuckled. His voice sounded fond and sarcastic at the same time.
Yet again, he decided to surprise me by moving me from the log, up into his arms.
" What on earth are you doing?!" I almost shouted, alarmed.
" What does it look like? I'm carrying you. You better be quiet if you don't want the others to wake up."
" Put me down!"
" You know it would be easier for you if you stopped fighting. What should you say?"
I sighed and reluctantly said, " Please will you put me down."
" That's better."
Finally, my feet touch the ground, much to my relief. Just when I thought I could breathe a sigh of relief, Kaoru leans down to my level. He isn't going to kiss me again, is he?! Stunned, I remain in the same position as he edged closer towards me. Lightly, his lips brushed against my burning cheek, before he pressed his lips firmly against my skin. He drew away and smirked at my perplexed state.
" I-I thought you... you said you weren't going to do anything else!" My words stumbled out as I turned a very bright shade of red. I hope my face isn't obvious in the dark!
" I said I wasn't going any further." He stated. " And, besides I like it when you blush. You're cute when you're blushing."
" Stop teasing me!" I pleaded with him. Honestly, I don't know how much more I can take. My love should remain unrequited.
For some reason, his once cheerful expression had changed into a more genuine, sincere expression.
" What if I wasn't joking?" All traces of playfulness had faded from his voice.
My breath had been caught in my throat. What does he mean?
" Kaoru, what are you both doing up? I couldn't sleep when I realised you weren't there." A voice asked.
We both turned towards the person to see it was Hikaru. He yawned as he scratched the back of his head in a sleepy state. His eyes widened when his gaze was fixed on me.
" Hazel. What were you doing with Kaoru?" He wondered.
" I just woke up and he was at the fire and then we just..." For a brief moment the image of our kiss flashed in my mind and I felt my cheeks turning rosy.
Luckily, Kaoru intercepted. " We were talking. I told her about the time where you held me after I had a bad dream."
Dumbfounded, I glance at him and he looked bashful. Don't tell me they are doing that routine right now?
" You were so cute when you woke up. Especially, when you were complaining and wouldn't let go of me."
" Hikaru don't embarrass me!"
Hikaru scooped Kaoru into his arms, their faces were in close proximity with each other.
" But I love to see your blushing face every time I do something to you."
" Hikaru don't say such things in front of the others."
" What if I were to kiss you right now? Should we let Hazel see how you look when you're all hot and bothered?" He asked seductively.
Right on cue, they look at me and smirk. There role play seemed to have the effect they wanted, as I was left red faced and nose bleeding. Hurriedly, I covered my face with my hands.
" You know it's bad if you have too many nose bleeds." Hikaru stated.
I glared at him as I spoke in a sarcastic tone, " I wonder who's fault that is."
" It's not our fault we are so desirable. After all, two twins are better than one."
" What ever you say." I shrugged him off.
" Where are you going?" Kaoru asked.
" I going to clean up. I can't stain my pillow with blood. Goodnight, guys."
" Night." They both replied.
Finally, I manage to retreat to the tranquility of the tent. After clearing myself, of the red substance, I lay down on the comfort of my sleeping bag. No matter how tired I felt, my thoughts continued to spin around my mind. Why on earth did he kiss me? Why couldn't I ask him?
Damn! Why do I have to be so hopeless? I should just be able to ask him but what prevents me from asking? He isn't the type of guy who would kiss someone without a reason. Does this mean he likes me?
At the thought, I blush and clutch my pillow to my face. There's no way he could like me that way! What would he even like about me? I'm a girl who acts as a servant to pay back a long standing debt that I can't escape from. Besides, it's my debt I need to cope on my own. Love should be the last thing on my mind. Next time, I shouldn't let my guard down.
During most of the times I have left my guard down, I have been kissed unexpectedly. With my gut instinct, I have a strong feeling that Kaoru wasn't the one who kissed me in the dark. The feelings that came across with those kisses were entirely different. So does it mean Kaoru wasn't the one who kissed me in the dark? Why are there so many questions and with very few answers?
This continuous argument is played out in my mind until the early hours of the morning. Unable to sleep, I give up and decide make the preparations for breakfast. Before, I start I decide to make myself more presentable. I definitely don't want a repeat of yesterday's incident. Considering that Mori had collected a lot of sticks last night, that meant I had even less work to do. However, I wasn't alone for long as Haruhi emerged.
" Wow, you're early this morning, Haruhi." I commented as I was pick my equipment out of my bag.
" I'm usually an early riser and I thought you could use some help." Haruhi offered with a smile.
" Thanks. I appreciate it." I smiled back.
She seated herself on my right hand side, helping me organise all the different ingredients from distinctive spices to numerous warm coloured jars that contain honey and syrup.I was fully focused on the job at hand until Haruhi suddenly spoke.
" So what were you doing with Kaoru last night?" She question in a curious tone.
Instantly, I gave myself away as I dropped the metal pan which presently had been in my hand.
" We talked about things...It was because we had argued earlier in the day and we both wanted to apologise that's all!"
" That's not all from the conversation I overheard last night." She smiled.
Then I immediately turned a brighter shade of red.
" Hold on! Could it be that you like Kaoru?" Haruhi questioned sounding slightly pleased.
" I might as well admit it. Kyoya-senpai, Honey-senpai and Mori-senpai already figured it out too."
" So nearly the whole club knows. Have you thought about confessing to him?" Haruhi asked straightforwardly as her eyes locked with mine unwavering.
" The funny thing is that Honey-senpai asked the same thing when he found out. But things are complicated."
One thing for sure is that considering last night, the situation has got a whole lot more complicated.
" If you're worried it's because of your social standing, Kaoru wouldn't care about anything like that."
" I know but that's only one problem. Honestly, if that was the only thing that was stopping me I would go right ahead and tell him everything. Things aren't as simple as I would like them to be."
" If it's as complicated as you say it is, it's best to break down each problem one by one. That way you could finally find a way to freely do what you want." She advised in a serious tone.
" Thanks Haruhi. I think I know just where to start." I smile with new found determination.
I'll get no where unless I'm straightforward. Asking them face to face is the only way. I just need to find a good opportunity.
Our conversation comes to a close as Tamaki awoke from his slumber and greeted us with a refreshing smile.
" Good morning!" He greeted in a relaxed tone.
" Morning, senpai! How's your ankle?" Haruhi wondered.
" It isn't as painful. Oh! You're already preparing breakfast! Can I help?" Tamaki asked eagerly.
" It's kind of boring this morning. All I have left that is for breakfast is porridge and I was planning to save the rice for later on."
Optimistically, Tamaki spoke, " No matter. We have to make do with what we have got."
" All you have to do is out the oats in the pan, pour in some water and salt and boil it for four to five minutes." I instructed.
" It seems simple enough." He said eagerly as he rolled the sleeve of his shirt up to his elbow. " Let's get started!"
From the corner of our watchful eyes, me and Haruhi were observing Tamaki to make sure no careless incidents occur.
" Hey Haruhi, is this enough water?" He wondered as he held the jug of the transparent substance.
" Yeah, you just need to add it in slowly and mix it as you pour the water in." She directed him and he smiled.
Excitedly, he squealed, " It's so great to be cooking with my daughters!"
" I'm glad you feel that way." I commented happily and my smile fell as soon as I spotted Kaoru. Immediately, I decide to take action. " I'll be back in a moment. Haruhi, please can you watch Tamaki with the food?"
" Yeah. I always I have a first aid kit ready." She reassured me.
As soon as I got the all clear, I almost ran over towards him. Once I had been sighted by him, his lips lifted to form his usual mischievous smirk.
" Hey Kaoru! I have something I need to ask!" I declared in determination.
" What is it?" He asked curiously. His straightforward, interrogating gaze caused me to flush slightly and feel anxious.
" Well... It's about last night, why did you k-"
" Hey Kaoru, I already said I was sorry about kicking you last night. Don't just wander off like that." Interrupted Hikaru, who clearly didn't realise the serious conversation he interrupted.
Kaoru focused his gaze on his twin and spoke," Don't worry about it. I'm not bothered as long as it doesn't happen again."
Next he pivoted to face me again and spoke in a reassuring tone, " Sorry about that. What were you saying?"
" Umm..." Of all the times, Hikaru had to arrive now! I shouldn't let it hold me back I need answers!
" Last night, were you serious about..."
" Breakfast is ready!" Shouted Tamaki as he beamed at his hard work.
Trust Tamaki to say something at the most crucial moment! I heaved a sigh of frustration. That earned me a sceptical look from both twins.
Fed up, I reply, " Never mind, I'll ask later."
Tamaki looked immensely proud of himself as he shared the bowls of porridge out to everyone. Honey, Kyoya and Mori were already seated on the chairs awaiting to see how
good a cook their King is. Helpfully, Haruhi passed out the bowls one by one, as she took great care in trying not to spill anything.
At the same time, everyone took a bite of the mixture. To Tamaki's horror, we all grimanced at the mouth drying taste of porridge. Both of the twins mirrored each other's expression as they coughed and spluttered from the abhorrent taste. Honey's face scrunched up and kicked his legs as he struggled to swallow the mixture.
" Spit it out Mitsukuni. The porridge is bad for you." Mori informed him with slight worry in his voice.
Tamaki looked disheartened as he heard Mori's words.
Hesitant, Tamaki asked, " What's... wrong?"
" Senpai, did you add extra salt when I wasn't looking?" Haruhi asked with a matter of fact tone.
Right on cue, Tamaki flinched as he reluctantly faced Haruhi.
"You did. Didn't you?" Accused Haruhi.
Immediately, Tamaki waved his hands and started awkwardly clap as he said, " Well I thought if I added the whole container it would taste better?"
" You added the whole container?!" Everyone spoke at the same time.
" Tamaki, if you add a a lot of salt to something it isn't good for anyone. Don't be so careless." Kyoya lectured.
As soon as Kyoya said that, Tamaki shrunk into depression, dwelling on the bad comments.
"Don't feel bad. Next time, just be more careful with the salt content." In an attempt to comfort him, I place my hand on his shoulder.
" Alright! I will try to make it again!" He declared with new found energy.
" Don't bother. We don't want to be poisoned again." The twins interrupted before the blond could get carried away.
" I would like to see the two of you try and cook." Tamaki pointed at them.
" Of course, we can cook." Kaoru answered.
" Anyone can cook anything that basic without that much trouble." Hikaru added in an attempt to provoke Tamaki.
" It was only one mistake!" Tamaki defended himself.
" Fine. Let's have a battle to see who can cook the best food." Both of the twins challenged the competitive blond.
" I'm sorry to cut your challenge short and it's not that I mind you having these challenges but think about our limited supplies." Kyoya informed them.
" Kyoya-senpai's right. I'd rather me or Haruhi cooked; today is the last day we are here and we have to make sure, we at least have enough food for the rest of the day." I agreed.
" Haz-chan! I have a lot of cake with me! I still have ten cakes left. But I don't have many flavours left. We can share it out!" Honey offered kindly.
" Thanks Honey-senpai. I guess we will be have cake for breakfast."
A cheer came from the cute host and he skipped off to his tent to grab some of the remaining cake.
" I have chocolate, strawberry and lemon!" He announced joyfully.
Soon, the cake was shared out and of course Honey had the most cake. Fortunately , I had managed to reserve a couple of slices for Nanami before Honey could demolish any more cake. Unusually, Nanami came to camp early. Since she had arrived the hosts began to talk about what they wanted to do for the rest of the day.
" It's our last day! We should do something fun!" Honey spoke.
" We can't do much since Tamaki is injured." Kyoya reminded us.
" Why don't we do something relaxing? You've all been running around a lot." Nanami suggested.
" I know. Why don't we go up to where the waterfall is? You can swim if you want and the water can be relaxing since it's really warm." I offered.
" Yeah! Sounds good! Does everyone agree?" Tamaki agreed.
" Yeah!" Honey and the twins punched their fists into the air.
" I don't see any problem with that." Kyoya added. Mori simply smiled in agreement.
" I brought a swim suit just in case something like this happened. Now I get to put it to use!" Nanami said happily.
" That settles it! The host club are going swimming!" The king declared.
" Well maybe not you senpai." Haruhi concluded.
Everyone set off to gather their belongings from their tents. Just as I had checked my stuff several times and I walked out of the tent, I was stopped by a pair of doppelgängers.
" SO what swimsuit are you wearing?" They asked with slight curiosity.
" If you're that bothered. Here." Once I showed them the only swim suit I owned.
Their faces looked impassive as they laid eyes on it.
" A school swimsuit. Really?" Hikaru spoke with a dissatisfied tone.
" It's so bland and it isn't flattering at all." Kaoru commented in a judging tone.
" Judge all you want but I don't go swimming often. In fact I have been since my second year of middle school and I haven't needed to go shopping for another. If it fits fine, then there's nothing wrong with it. Besides I don't have the money to go out and buy a trendy swimsuit."
Then, Hikaru rested his arm over my should as he spoke, " See. This is when we come in handy."
Kaoru copied him and rested his arm across me the other way.
" Luckily for you, we brought one of our mother's latest designs with us just in case, something like this happened."
Both of them pulled out the top and bottom of a very revealing swim suit.
Horrified, I inquired, " Why a bikini?!"
" Well, for a start it's more flattering." Kaoru stated.
" The bright colour will look good on your pale skin." Hikaru complimented.
Profusely, I blush and snatch the bikini out of their hands.
" Thanks." I spoke quietly before I wandered back inside the tent.
Quickly, I put on the swim suit and cover up in the least revealing clothes I could find that included a ridiculously large hoodie. It's not like I have to swim.. I'll just be well prepare with the bikini.
Finally, I resurface out of the tent to see everyone was already stood waiting for me.
" Sorry, I took so long."
" It's ok. Hey, Haz-chan are you going to go swimming as well?" Honey beamed.
" That's part of the plan. So let's get going!"
In a good amount of time, we made it to the river where we had been catching fireflies a couple of nights ago. Eager to get stuck in Honey ran to the riverside slashing the water freely. Shortly after, he was followed by the twins we were ready to go against each other in a battle involving water pistols. Kyoya was still helping Tamaki along and preventing him from trying to join in so he didn't injure himself to a greater extent. Mori smiled as he watched Honey and went to join him as Honey waved happily the gentle giant. Meanwhile, me, Haruhi and Nanami were left behind, watching the hosts from afar.
With a swift tap on the shoulder, I turned my attention to Nanami as she pointed to the river.
" Hey Hazel, come on let go in the water." She said.
" I think I'm going to wait a while. I'm not quite ready to swim yet, Tokinawa-sama." I responded.
I definitely don't want to reveal that bikini. I've never shown off that much skin before! Before I knew it, a burst of water soaked me from head to toe. Unamused, I look for the culprit to see the twins grinning wickedly with their guns resting against their shoulders.
" What are you being shy for?" Kaoru interrogated.
" We brought you that bikini. The least you could do is show us what it looks like." Hikaru spoke in a dissatisfied tone.
" And if you don't take off your clothes now..." Evil glints appeared in their amber eyes and their arms were reaching out towards me. "... we'll be the ones taking them off for you."
Fearing for my safety, I shouted while sprinting away," There's no way I'm letting that happen!"
" Wow, who knew she could run so fast?" Hikaru commented sounding impressed.
" Anyway, let's catch her!" Kaoru suggested.
Desperately, I called out," Help me!"
" Hey they're chasing Haz-chan!" Honey pointed out.
" Don't harass my daughter! Haruhi help her!" Tamaki yelled.
" You guys should quit it! Leave her alone if she doesn't want to show the bikini!" Haruhi scolded the twins harshly.
Suddenly, Honey giggled and decided, "It looks fun! I'll join in!"
" Not you too!" I cried.
In an attempt to get away from the three pursuers, I ran near where Tamaki and Kyoya were situated I stormed through, Kyoya quickly lifted the pile of books he had brought with him.
" Honestly, I don't mind you playing games. Just don't come near here." He spoke causally.
" Sorry! Please help me, Mori-senpai!"
His instinct to protect others kicked in and he ran powerfully and immediately blocked my chasers. I glance and slowed down in a paced jog before stopping a safe distance away from a wave of relief, I calmed down and panted heavily.
" Thanks! I owe you!"
Triumphantly, I grin. Victory is mine! Then, a couple of hands clamped down on my shoulder. At first I was frozen. Hesitantly, I turned my head. My smile fell when I spotted a pair of smirks. The twins had me in their grasp!
" So we meet again." They spoke in a sinister fashion.
As I felt intimidated, I gulped and laughed awkwardly.
" So let's start by taking this baggy jumper off." Hikaru spoke as he moved his hands towards the bottom of the item of clothing.
Immediately, I clasped my hands over his to prevent him from moving it any further.
" Don't stop us now. We are just getting started." He said annoyed.
" I promise you'll see it! Just let me do it myself!" I protested.
" How do we know you're not lying?" Kaoru smirked as he teased me.
My cheeks went rosy as I spoke, " You'll see the bikini. Honest! This is way too embarrassing already! I'd rather take my own clothes off! Thank you!"
Once Hikaru's grip had loosened, I took the opportunity to go into the forest. Reluctantly I start to take off the clothes. Luckily, Haruhi was nearby and I called her over.
" Please can you pass me a towel?"
" Yeah sure." Calmly, she walked over to the pile of towels and came back without being noticed.
" Thank you. You're a life saver!" I said gratefully as I wrapped the towel making sure it masked most of my body.
Cautiously, I look out for the twins and wander over to Tamaki and Kyoya, holding my neatly folded clothes.
" Oh Hazel! I'm glad to see that you're no longer being chased by those shady twins! But why are you wearing that towel?" The host club king commented.
" I just want to keep my skin covered."
" It wouldn't have anything to do with the fact the twins want to see you in a swimsuit, would it?" Kyoya spoke knowingly.
As I faced him, his glasses glinted in the sharp sunlight hiding his eyes. Then my worse fears were confirmed as the twins spotted me and merrily wandered over.
" Now that's cheating!" They complained.
" I only said I was taking off my clothes!" I defended.
Simultaneously, they walked up to me and looked at me directly in the eyes.
" But you promised that you would show it to us. Now you can't go back on a promise."
There was no way I was going to win.I shut my eyes not wanting to see their expressions. Unwillingly, I started to undo the tight wrapping of the towel and I let it drop to the floor. A couple of gasps came from the twins.
" Woah... it looks better than I originally thought!" Hikaru sounded amazed.
" You look great." Kaoru sounded proud.
The violet coloured bikini was now on display to the host club. It was decorated with delicate bows either side of the bottoms. On the top half, it had a knot in the middle and the straps were a halter neck which were tied together in a tight bow.
" Now that you're wearing a swim suit you should go swimming with me and Takashi!" Honey offered excitedly.
" I think I'm going to sit out..."
" We'll accept your offer Honey-senpai!" Surprisingly, Nanami announced.
" Great! Let's play!" Beamed Honey.
As Honey took off ahead and dragged Mori along, me and Nanami trailed behind. Her face turned from a joyful smile to a more business-like expression.
" It's important to keep the hosts happy. The Tokinawa needs good links to important people so we can't afford to mess around like your little display earlier. Do you understand Hazel?" She instructed seriously.
" I understand Tokinawa-sama." I spoke in a professional tone.
Every interaction with her seems like a business deal. I know she has responsibilities as a heiress but I wonder if she can ever truly enjoy interacting with people with ulterior motives. Somehow I sympathise for her. It must be tough being in that position. Even when I was the heiress to my parents' architecture company, I was never expect to show such dedication. My parents just wanted me to enjoy my life with as few burdens as possible. However, I don't have time for that. My debt needs to be repaid.
" Come on Haz-chan! Stop spacing out and have fun!" Honey called to snap me out of my trance.
" Alright! I'll be right over!"
The four of us started to have water fights slashing each other. Hitting the water with as much force as possible. Nanami backed off slightly in fear of ruining her hair. When I least expected it, Honey cleverly managed to sneak onto Mori without me knowing and threw himself off Mori, hitting the water with great impact which sent colossal drops of water in multiple directions. From the shock, I coughed and laughed as I brushed the dripping wet strands of hair off my face.
" That was a lot of fun! I'm thirsty! Do you ladies want a drink?" Honey offered.
" No thank you, Honey-senpai." Nanami politely decline.
" I'm fine, thank you." I replied.
" 'kay. I'll be getting a drink for myself and Takashi. See you in a moment." Honey waved as he climbed onto Mori shoulders and they wandered out of the water.
As I watched them go, a surprise splash successfully hit me. I tuned to see Nanami smiling.
" It's been a while since we played around like this. We should make the most of this." Nanami suggested and prepared to hit me, however I managed to counter with another wave.
" Don't think I'll go easy on you!" I challenged her.
" I don't expect you to. I'll definitely be the victor. I always am!" She said confidently.
At moments like this, you could see the more carefree side of her and that was a rare sight. We continued to move and try and dodge. However, we didn't realise how carried away we were. As I paused for a moment, I came to the realisation that we were too far away from the river side. The current was more vigorous and strong. The further we travelled the worse it got.
" Tokinawa-sama! We need to get back now!" Franticly, I yelled.
She turned around and started tread in the water. " Hazel you worry too much!"
Seemingly she ignored my warning and continued forward. Then horror displayed itself on her face as the tide swept her into its watery grasp. Fear rose through me as I called out to her but she didn't surface.
Despite my short, panicky breaths I managed to take a single deep breath as I instinctively dived into the depths of the river. I kicked as quickly as I could been I didn't seem to close the distance between us. Further and further, she kept sinking. Her limbs were motionless. It was clear on her face she was trying to keep the last gasp of air inside. I continued to glide through the water. Finally, I managed to reach out to her limp hand.
Tightly, I gripped her around her slender waist. My heart raced and refused to calm down. Her weight seemed to drag me down as once again I was fighting against the current. Blindly the sunlight shot through the water's surface making it had to see where the end was. A dark silhouette started to block the sun's ray and moved at a swift speed towards us. Desperately, I kicked trying to move but I was running out of energy.
Fortunately, it turned out the silhouette was Hikaru! His eyes were wide with anxiousness and fear. As he reached us, I pathetically shoved Nanami in his arms. I point to the surface and he nodded. Quickly, with powerful strokes he was away. I followed him until...
A pain shot through my leg. Muscles locked. My leg refused to move. In surprise, I opened my mouth. Then I clasped my hands over it. Air bubbles rushed to the surface. Where is Hikaru? I tossed my head side to side but no one was in sight. I need help and fast!
I moved my hands to the cramped muscle and tried to stretch it but it only hurt more. My air supply was limited. And it was running out. My vision clouded. The situation seemed hopeless.
No matter what I won't give up! Despite the harrowing pain, I forced myself to move. The distance between me and surface seemed never ending and impossible. Suddenly, I was grabbed from behind. Angst coursed through me. Instantly I started to squirm. But I seemed to be moving towards the top. For a moment, I stopped and saw a determined look on the auburn haired boy's face.
Kaoru.
All kinds of emotion took over at the sight of him. Security. Relief. Peace. As soon as we hit the surface I gasped and started to uncontrollably cough and wheeze. My chest heaved heavily. Deep breaths came from Kaoru as he pushed forward against the river. Weakly, I clutch his arm.
The time seemed to blur around me. My body no longer felt the water. A shiver ran up my spine and I shook along with it. My feet didn't touch the ground as my legs were hooked over Kaoru's arm and my back was propped up with the other arm. Finally, my heart seemed at ease and exhaustion seemed to take over.
" Put a towel on the ground!" Kaoru shouted with a worry in his voice.
Next, I was lying on the towel. My limbs felt heavy.
" Are you hurt anywhere?" He demanded.
" Leg cramp." I spoke quietly.
Large hands grabbed my leg and stretched it into a more comfortable position. I glance to see Mori holding it in place.
" Don't worry Haz-chan! Takashi is used to dealing with stuff like this in his kendo practice!" Honey tried to remain positive.
I smiled at him and tried to concentrate on my breathing.
" What were you thinking?1" Kaoru asked in a pressing tone.
" I had to save Tokinawa-sama... It was my fault we were so careless."
I averted my gaze, out of fear as I knew I had disappointed him.
" You should have called for help. You can't always manage things on your own like you usually do." He lectured.
" It's my duty to help her. But not only that, she is a friend and friends help each other in need." I said firmly.
Suddenly, Hikaru raised his voice," Aren't we your friends too?! Why are you so careless?"
Slightly, hurt from his words, I timidly speak," I don't mean to be. It's not like I wanted all this to happen and I paid for it."
" What he's trying saying is that you should depend on us more. Everyone in the host club looks out for you." Kaoru spoke more softly.
" I'm sorry. But it isn't that easy for me. I'm not used to having so many people around me who know so much about me."
" Is your leg better?" Mori interrupted.
" Yeah, thanks Mori senpai."
" No problem." Politely, he smiled.
Then, to my surprise, I left the flatness of the ground and ended up in a pair of arms. Once again, the orange haired menace had picked me up.
" Why are you picking me up?" I asked straightforward.
" Anyone can tell you've used a lot of energy and are completely exhausted." Kaoru spoke.
" How's Nanami?"
" She's alright. Like you she just needs rest."
" How's Hazel? I heard she nearly drowned." Tamaki shouted panicking. Kyoya and Haruhi trailed behind them.
" She's fine, Boss. If anything, you're not helping shouting like that." Hikaru commented cooly.
" I'm glad you're alright." Haruhi said sounding relieved.
" You should sleep now since you haven't slept so well for the past two nights." Kaoru suggested.
Since I barely had enough energy to argue, I chose not to complain. The warmth of his body was comforting and straight away I drifted in to slumber.
The next time I opened my eyes, it was already sunset and the sound of the crackling fire was the first to greet me from my slumber. I shifted and realised I was covered in a blanket. Slowly, I stirred and started to stretch as I opened my eyes. As I lifted myself from my lying down position, I saw that I was being greeted by several smiles of relief.
" Haz-can, you're awake!" Declared Honey first.
" You've slept for way too long." Complained Hikaru.
" We were beginning to think you'd sleep the whole night through." Commented Kaoru playfully.
" Give her a break, guys. She just woke up." Scolded Haruhi.
" I'm sorry to interrupt the reunion but I need to see how she is feeling." Kyoya spoke in a matter of fact tone.
" Do you mean that she could have forgotten all of us?!" Tamaki panicked.
" No you idiot. She doesn't have amnesia. She hasn't hit her head on anything." He replied slightly annoyed. " How are you feeling?"
" I'm fine. I feel well rested. How's Tokinawa-sama?" I spoke hoarsely.
Kyoya pushed his glasses up slightly as he spoke," You should ask her yourself. She is currently sitting behind you."
Awkwardly, I turned my head and saw her wit her feet resting against a log and her azure eyes focus on me as she looked up from her magazine. Her blond hair was no longer damp and was tied back messily.
" It's nothing serious. You looked worse than I did and honestly, I'm glad I don't have to find another servant." Then she directed her attention back to the folded back magazine.
" I'm glad you're well, Tokinawa-sama." She hummed and proceeded to turn the page.
" Since it's our last night we should do something fun!" Suggested Honey.
" Don't do anything extreme." Instructed Haruhi.
" I know. We should tell ghost stories using the flashlight." Hikaru answered and spookily held the flashlight under his face enhancing the creepy look on his face.
" We shouldn't do anything creepy especially with you two shady twins. We should do something less scary." Tamaki objected passionately.
" Are you a scaredy cat?" Both Hikaru and Kaoru whispered into Tamaki's ears.
" Not at all! We should play truth or dare that game should be harmless enough." The host club king announced.
Instantly, both the twins and Honey agreed and everyone else seemed to go along with the flow. Somehow I became automatically involved in the game and Nanami chose to sit out and still read the articles. We all sat in a circle with a bottle lay on its side in the centre. Mori put his hand on the bottle and gave it a good spin. Tensely, we all stare at the object to see the all important first victim would be.
As the bottle finally paused, it chose its victim, who turned out to be Tamaki.
" So what will it be boss? Truth or dare?" The twins spoke with mischievous grins.
" I will choose truth! I'm sure you will all want to know how I manage to be beautiful both inside and out. Ask any question you like." Tamaki announced in a radiant style.
Honey was quick to suggest a question. " Tama-chan do you love Haru-chan?"
Numerous gasps filled the air while Tamaki remain strangely composed despite the nature of the question.
" Of course I love Haruhi! A father always loves his daughter!"
The rest of the host club pulled dismayed expression except from Haruhi who look relieved.
" We shouldn't really be surprised Tamaki is oblivious to his own feelings." Kyoya stated.
" We should rephrase the question." Added Hikaru.
" Are you in love with Haruhi?" Kaoru wondered.
Tamaki's bright expression crumbled away and he looked slightly uncomfortable.
" Well, a father can't be in love with his daughter. Daddies have to be very protective of their little girls." He concluded.
Hikaru spoke as he rested his head in his hands." It's official..."
"... he's hopeless." Kaoru finished.
" Well, Tama-chan is Tama-chan. I don't think he will realise anything soon." Honey seemed a little disheartened and Mori hummed in response.
" Let's chose the next victim!" The twins said.
Once again the bottle spun and it landed on the host club's shadow king.
" I'm going to choose truth." He spoke with no hesitation.
" Aww, don't be boring Kyoya-senpai!" The twins moaned.
" If I chose dare I imagine you would make me do something humiliating. There is definitely no way I would allow myself to be put into such a compromising situation." He reasoned fully.
Instantly, I came up with a question. " I'm curious exactly how many of those notebooks do you own?"
" Well, probably around 30 notebooks."
" What do you write in them all?" Haruhi asked curiously.
" All kinds of data including the host club's clients, profits and the current state of many business owned by the parents of Ouran students."
Sneakily, the twins smirked as they asked, " Are you hiding any secrets?"
" I thought we were playing truth or dare. It feels like I'm more under an interrogation. I don't have any secrets I'm willing to share but I'm willing to reveal that my notebooks contain all kinds of information."
At that exact moment his glasses glinted evilly and he narrowed his gaze at me knowingly. Still holding his gaze, I moved to spin the bottle. As it spun Honey offered me, several pieces of pocky which I took gratefully as I hadn't had any food. Surprisingly, it landed in the middle of the twins.
Displeased, Hikaru asked," What should we do now? Shouldn't only one of us do the truth or dare?"
" I don't mind doing as a pair. Besides it will make thing more interesting." His twin commented.
" Alright. We chose dare. It's about time we had some fun around here." Devilishly, Hikaru smiled.
Kyoya shared a sinister smirk as he spoke, " Fine. I dare you to see which one of you can charm Hazel the best. She must decide the winner."
Immediately, I glared at him and he discreetly give me a knowing look, then focused his attention on the twins. How dare he? Is he trying to get me to react to Kaoru?
" We work best as a pair." Complained Hikaru.
" Hang on, things are getting interesting. We should see what kind of response we get." Kaoru said.
" This could be a test to see your individual host charms. Let's see if we can develop your acts! Who knows maybe we can offer something new when we get back to the club room!" Tamaki fully agreed.
It was obvious I wasn't going to get any help from the others. Since the host club king makes all the final decision their was no point of arguing. While silently seething, I munched on the pocky snapping the chocolate stick in half.
" Do you like chocolate? Maybe we should share it together? After all who doesn't like sweets." Hikaru spoke smoothly.
Gently, he trailed the pocky along the line of my lip before placing it in my mouth. Bewildered all I could do is Kaoru tilted my head so I had to l directly look into his disappointed eyes.
He moaned wistfully, " Hey, that isn't fair. You can't let him have all the fun. You should be kinder and share with me instead!"
Then, he placed his lips at the end of the stick and took small bites of the chocolate and slowly edged closer to my face. The look in his eyes was incredibly intense and all I could do was turned a very vibrant shade of red. Once he was to close for comfort, I moved to snap the stick and let it drop onto the floor.
" Aww. You dropped it. Don't worry there's plenty more where that came from." Hikaru said seductively as he held another in his mouth and tried to place it near my lips.
Immediately Kaoru pulled me away from his brother " I'm sure your lips still taste like chocolate, but I bet your lips taste even sweeter just like the night..."
" AHHH!" I screamed and pulled away. Then I felt the world turn upside down and pain shot through my head. " Ow!"
" I guess we were slightly too charming for her." Kaoru giggled.
" I knew girls fell for us but we've never had a girl literally fall for us." Hikaru joked.
" Very funny. Now can someone please help me up." I spoke in a unamused tone with a scarlet face.
Honey and Mori hoisted me off the ground by grabbing each arm. I nod in gratitude.
" So who won?" Questioned Haruhi.
" I'd like to say neither of them since I fell over in the process."
" Come on. We need a winner." Demanded Hikaru.
Without a second thought, I said," Honey and Mori should be the winners after all they were kind enough to help me up."
" Hey that isn't fair!" Both of them whined.
" Argue about it later. Let's just play the game." Haruhi interrupted as she wanted to keep things calm.
" Fine." They caved in.
Somehow, I narrowly escaped anymore embarrassment. If I named Kaoru the winner I think I would be revealing my feelings a little.
" Seriously! Is this game rigged?" A voice shouted.
Immediately, I snapped out of my little world and see the bottle firmly pointing in Hikaru's direction.
" Fine. I guess I don't have a choice. I'll choose truth this time." He accepted as he sounded annoyed.
Quickly, I spoke," I have a question!"
" Go ahead ask away." He said nonchalantly.
All heads turned to my direction. Their eyes burning with curiosity.
Hesitantly, I added, " I need to ask it privately."
He raised an eyebrow skeptically, but said, " I don't have a problem with that."
I breathed a sigh of relief and lead the way. Hikaru trailed behind walking casually. I stopped once I felt I was comfortable distance away from the group.
" So what are you being so serious for?" He asked not fazed by my seriousness.
Currently, I still face away from him, gathering the courage to ask the question plaguing my mind since the day it happened. In determination, I clench my fists and turn around.
" Oh, do you want to confess to me or something like that?" He casually joked around,
Bluntly, I get straight to the point." Be serious for once. I took you out here to get answers."
HIs facial expression darkened slightly and worry was visible in his eyes.
" What so important that you dragged me out here? If you're going to take ages we may as well head back."
" Remember to tell the truth. No matter what I ask." I remained him.
" Come on everyone knows you tell the truth when you choose it. Quit stalling already, I'm sure the other will want us back."
Shakily, I take a breath and begin to explain," On the day, we were at Kyoya's house. There was a black out. During the black out, someone kissed me. I know it was either you or Kaoru. I have proof. Now tell me. Were you the person who kissed me?"
" You're asking a question like that. Does it even matter who.."
My temper flared and I raised my voice," Don't you dare avoid the question! You have no idea how much I am going through!"
" Please just tell me." I begged.
His face turned from shock to shame. Instantly, he avoid my unwavering gaze and cowered away. " It was me."
At that moment it felt like their was another break in my reality. Why me? There was no way I can admit my feelings to Kaoru now his brother is involved. There is no way I am breaking up their relationship for my own selfish desires. But at the same time my heart
shattered at the thought.
" Tell me... why? Why did you do it?" I demanded weakly.
" It's because I..."