Hey, so next chappie? Well, thank you all for the reviews! Sorry for not posting it up sooner… :P But, it's here on time, so, please enjoy! :D
Oh, and before I forget, when you see italics, it's a person's thoughts. When you see 'italics and only one quote' it's writing. With the "two quotes" and regular writing, it's just speaking. Just so you all know the complexity of it all… :D
DISCLAIMER: I do NOT own Ouran High School Host Club nor do I own its characters! They all belong to the wonderful Bisco Hatori! I only own this plot! I also do not own the song I'm With You by Avril Levigne!
I'm With You
~Chapter 3~
Haruhi felt claustrophobic with the way all these people are crowding around her, getting their orders finished for their 'Young Master'. She didn't know what the big deal was, for all of the workers here were very… enthusiastic about the on goings of right now. And with Tamaki throwing random compliments to how 'cute she looks when she's scared', she felt utterly frightened.
But, she let all the maids do their job, not complaining that they kept on fawning over her and telling her everything would be okay when it really won't. She, for the first time, feels as if she's actually wanted in this life; like these people actually want her around.
She felt a smile fighting its way to take its rightful place on her lips, but she fought the urge down. She still doesn't know these people that well, and she doesn't want to let her guard down anytime soon.
Soon enough, all the maids crowding around her dispersed one by one, going off to do their own, specific job. Haruhi couldn't help but sigh in relief. Thank goodness that they're gone!
Tamaki's eyes brightened up when he saw the cute, relieved expression that was (barely) shown on Haruhi's face. A bright smile lit up his expressions as a maid walked in with the school uniforms of the school Tamaki goes to: Ouran High School.
But then, he became confused. The maid was also holding a boy's uniform as well as the girl's one. But, Tamaki felt as if it all should be fine, for Hanako was the one to fetch them. Of course, she was the only one who had been able to 'talk' to Haruhi. But, he thought, why the boy's uniform?
Hanako laid the uniforms down on the bed in front of Haruhi. And as Haruhi looked at them, she seemed to like the girl's uniform less and less. She was never really one for really girly, frilly clothes. And the girl's uniform for the school seems really frilly. To her, the boy's uniform looks as if it's the better choice. Plus, if she acts like a boy, it'll be more likely that she won't be bothered or talked to. Yes, Haruhi feels as if she doesn't belong; but she doesn't really want to get to know people and believe in them because she thinks that they will just abandon her in the end.
So, she thought, if I dress up as a boy, people wouldn't really try to talk to me. I mean, who would want to talk to a mute, weird boy –or girl- like me?
To Tamaki's surprise, Haruhi pointed to the boy's uniform, as if she wanted to wear that instead. Instantly, he rushed to Hanako and Haruhi's side.
"Why don't you wear this?" Tamaki asked, picking up the girl's yellow dress and white collar uniform and holding it up to Haruhi.
Haruhi rose up her hands and shook her head. She really detests such things. It would be a burden to wear something like that every day.
Tamaki stared in awe at Haruhi's short locks that softly swished around her face as she shook her head. He didn't know why, but he felt as if he wanted to feel the silkiness beneath his fingertips. He frowned, mentally shaking the thought out of his head. What was he thinking?
"Do you really not like it?" Tamaki asked her, befuddled.
Haruhi picked up the writing pad and pencil that was perched carelessly on the bed. And then, she began to write, 'I don't really like frilly things.' She showed it to Tamaki and he got a questioning look on his face. Quickly, she wrote down, 'wouldn't it be easier if I were to dress up as a guy? People wouldn't really question me that much if I were."
To Tamaki, and Hanako, that really did not make any sense. Doesn't she want to be talked to? Tamaki questioned himself. Shouldn't she want to make friends and have a good school life?
Tamaki stopped himself from thinking any further and saw the discomfort making itself known in Haruhi's big brown (what he thought beautiful) eyes. Disbelief crossed his mind when he heard himself say, "Okay, whatever makes you comfortable."
Haruhi was shocked, though, she tried her best not to show it in her expression. What? She may not talk, but she has a really hard time hiding all her real emotions. But, jus this once, Haruhi gave Tamaki a small, thankful smile that seemed to light up her eyes.
Tamaki was breath taken from the sight. He didn't know why. He just… couldn't believe how beautiful that one little smile like that could actually be. And, he didn't even try to stop the smile that played on his lips.
Feeling a slight blush coming on, Haruhi quickly, but not startlingly, turned away from Tamaki before he could notice it. Tamaki frowned, feeling sad that Haruhi had turned away. Why, he did not know. He just… did.
The days in the Suoh 2nd mansion (in which she found out it wasn't the main mansion the same day she was enrolled in school) flew by quickly until it was Monday. Haruhi felt nervous. She didn't know if she'd be able to handle being in the school for spoilt rich kids. She prayed to her parents in heaven that things would run smoothly.
The morning of her first day of school, she woke up to the annoying beep of her alarm clock. Quickly turning it off, she made her way to the bathroom and started her morning routine. After brushing, flossing, and other things she needed to do, she got dressed into her uniform: a pair of black dress pants with a white button up collared shirt with a black tie and a sky blue blazer with the Ouran symbol on the left breast. She combed out her short, boy cut hair and slipped on her black dress shoes. Surprisingly, they were pretty comfortable. But what can you expect from a school full of rich people?
As Haruhi walked down the complexly located hallways, she couldn't help but muse to herself all of the time she spent in the mansion. She had, surprisingly, got used to all that had changed around her (but she did get lost once in a while). She indeed felt very blessed for all the help she got from the Suoh household and she was very happy that she got some new friends, but she couldn't help but think that she was being a terrible burden for all those around her.
True, she did help with the chores. True, she didn't ask for anything unless people asked what she had need and/or gave her something that she really did not want or need. True, she did not do anything to provoke anyone or did anything wrong. But, she can't help but wonder what her purpose here is. She doesn't know if she belongs. And really, that's the one thing that she wants:
To belong.
Her thoughts were cut off when she noticed she was at the dining room. Tamaki had bounded out of his chair and had crashed into her, squishing Haruhi into a tight hug.
"You look so cute Haruhi!" Tamaki cooed, spinning both he and Haruhi around.
Somehow, Tamaki had gotten to first name basis with Haruhi but she doesn't call him by his name. She doesn't talk. She writes down his name. And whenever she does, it's Tamaki-senpai. He doesn't know why she uses honorifics when he obviously doesn't. But, he's fine with whatever makes her comfortable.
Haruhi struggled to get out of Tamaki's death grip, noticeably loosing air. Noticing this, Tamaki let her go, spewing as many apologies that he knows. And after the show, they both sat down and had some breakfast.
All the while that this went on, maids and butlers were walking around them, doing their daily chores and duties. It is true that they were very much amused, but they didn't want to say anything to embarrass the two. But, they were pretty tempted.
The maids and butlers got used to the theatrics that Tamaki would put up whenever Haruhi was around. And they soon learned that Tamaki was very… protective of her.
Tamaki doesn't mind their observations. Haruhi doesn't either. And this is because Tamaki made a very big observation. Even though Haruhi is quiet, doesn't talk, and doesn't really want to show any emotion, she was completely and utterly infatuated with her. You could even call it an obsession. He desperately wants to know how Haruhi ticks; how she acts and how she sounds like. But, Haruhi continues with her wordless gestures, frustrating Tamaki to the bone. He wishes that he could get her to talk to him without a pencil and pen. He wishes that he will be able to open her up and get her to trust him with all her heart.
But, he knows that it's a terrible feat. It will be very difficult to do so. With all that she must have been through to run away (he found out from Haruhi, surprisingly), he doesn't know if she'll be able to trust again.
But I won't give up! Tamaki assures himself. I'll open up her heart again and give her someone to trust!
After a while of eating and Tamaki talking, the duo finished their breakfast. Tamaki handed Haruhi a school back and a map and schedule. He explained everything that she needed to know about the school rules, regulations, and so on as they made their way to the limo waiting outside of the front doors for them.
Tamaki, being the gentleman he is, opened the door for Haruhi and let her in first before he himself slid onto the plush, leather seat. Haruhi listened to Tamaki's rant of all she needs to know and she couldn't help but wonder just how many rules the school had. But, she still made sure that she would be able to remember and follow each one.
"You'll actually be inside of Hikaru and Kaoru's class" Tamaki muttered, smiling to Haruhi.
Haruhi gave him a questioning look, not having to write anything to let him know what she was thinking about.
"Oh, they're just some devilish twins that are in the Host Club with me."
Haruhi nodded. She remembered that Tamaki had told her about this 'host club' that Tamaki had started with his friends Kyoya Ootori. She knows that they entertain young ladies and all that stuff, but she didn't get to know any of the members for they didn't come over to Tamaki's place during the weekend.
"You'll meet them after school today!" Tamaki stated excitedly. "I'm sure they'll love you!"
Haruhi smiled a bit, looking out the window and nodding her head. She loved the way Tamaki was always so enthusiastic about the littlest things and how he loves to talk. Though, he does get sort of annoying whenever he uses his crazy theatrics on her.
As Haruhi watched the scenery pass by, Tamaki couldn't take his eyes off her. She wasn't the most feminine girl he knew (considering he knows a lot of girls), but she was still, indeed, cute. She had a boyish figure and with her hair cut, it was easy to mistake her for one. But, she was still very pretty; maybe even considered beautiful. And to Tamaki, she was the most beautiful girl he's ever laid eyes on.
As if she felt his gaze on her, Haruhi turned to look at Tamaki, giving her what he thinks is the 'cutest questioning look ever'.
Tamaki blushed, embarrassed to be caught staring, and looked away shyly. Haruhi let a small smile play on her lips before turning back to the window. The ride was quiet, surprisingly. Tamaki didn't know what was wrong with him. Usually, he would start a conversation in the quiet. And if it were as quiet as it was now, he would instantly start freaking out. He wasn't the 'quiet type'.
Amidst the silence, they reached the school, it's marble buildings glinting in the early morning sunlight. Haruhi stared at it in awe as she stepped out of the limousine. She couldn't believe her eyes. And as all eyes turned to her, she felt shy.
As soon as Tamaki stepped out of the limo, she hid behind his back. This action, to Tamaki, was super and utterly adorable. Spinning around, he pulled her into a tight hug, exclaiming, "You're so cute when you're embarrassed!"
Since her head was buried in Tamaki's silk covered chest, she was unable to see all the stares the two were attracting. But, she could definitely feel them. Haruhi pushed at Tamaki slightly and he got the message.
Albeit reluctantly, Tamaki let the young lady go. Haruhi fixed her blazer and once again, hid behind Tamaki as they walked up the stairs and into the front door.
"I'll take you to the office!" Tamaki said, nodding and gesturing hello to all those they past. "My Dad will be happy to see you."
Haruhi nodded slightly, not liking the attention that she got. She had no idea why she and Tamaki were attracting stares. Maybe it's because he's popular she thought.
It took a few minutes to find the head office, since this school is huge. And once they did, the office workers graciously greeted Tamaki. Haruhi knows that Tamaki is the heir of the Suoh line, but, before now, she didn't know that Mr. Suoh owns Ouran Academy.
Upon entering the office, Mr. Suoh walked out of his office and greeted Tamaki with, surprisingly, a noogie. He wrapped an arm around Tamaki's neck and used his fist on his other hand to rub Tamaki's head, messing up his hair.
Haruhi watched the scene unfold before her, amused. Tamaki, feeling very embarrassed because of this, tried his best to get out of his father's death grip. Somehow, he was able to get out. He fixed his hair and straightened out his clothes. Tamaki turned to Haruhi, blushing a bit.
"This," he started, "is my father. Father, this is Haruhi Fujioka. I'm sure the maids have told you about her."
Mr. Suoh looked at Haruhi and grinned. "You're such a lovely young lady! I am sure that you are very intelligent."
Mr. Suoh circled around Haruhi, making her feel as if she were a deer caught in a car's headlights. She didn't know what to do. So, she just fidgeted with her fingers and tried to not let her uneasiness get noticed. Then, Mr. Suoh turned to Tamaki.
"I like her. I give you permission to date her."
If Tamaki were drinking something, he would have spat it out. A deep blush coated his cheeks as he looked frantically from Haruhi to his father and back again.
"Wh-wha… Dad!" Tamaki couldn't create a coherent sentence because of the shock enveloping his mind.
"What?" Mr. Suoh asked. "What did I do wrong now?"
It was obvious to Haruhi that Mr. Suoh knew exactly what Tamaki was embarrassed about. It seems as if he likes to tease his son with a girl around. Haruhi couldn't stop the small giggle that escaped her lips, capturing the attention of all those inside the office.
Haruhi looked around, eyes wide. And then, she looked down, embarrassed all of the attention that she had.
Tamaki, happy as can be, brought her into a tight hug, exclaiming and cooing over her 'cute little laugh'. She noticed the amused stares of the workers as they watched the show that Tamaki and her put on, and Haruhi wished that she could just disappear into the shadows so that no one will be able to notice her.
Tamaki felt a tug on his sleeve and he looked down at the girl (dressed as a guy) in his arms. Noticing her embarrassment, he decided that he should put her out of her misery. He let her go and smiled widely down at her as she looked away.
When Tamaki heard her giggle, he thought that she sounded like the most adorable thing on Earth. Although, he was curious as to why her voice sounded so flawless even though she doesn't talk. She must have stopped talking not too long ago before I found her he thought.
"Ehem" Tamaki cleared his throat. "Anyways I think we should be going now. Bye."
Tamaki grabbed onto Haruhi's hand and dragged her out before anyone could comment on his actions. Once out, Tamaki sighed in relief. Turning to Haruhi, he shot her a small, apologetic smile.
"Sorry about that" he said. "My dad can be a little… weird."
Haruhi quickly took out her notepad and started to write something down. She turned the neat writing to Tamaki for him to read: 'he reminds me of you.'
Blushing, Tamaki changed the subject. "So, shall we get you acquainted with the rest of the school?"
Using his 'host club charm', Tamaki led Haruhi through the complicated halls of Ouran Academy, introducing her to all the people he knew as 'Haruhi Fujioka: the new, honor student of Ouran Academy's High School division'.
~Chapter 3 End~
So, was it good? Bad? Tell me what you think in a review! Oh, and I thank you all for the reviews that I have received! I really do appreciate them! And thanks for adding me to your alerts and/or faves! The thanks goes to…
sweetwithobsessions- isn't her music the best? :D
Snickers13- Oh, I'll find a way… ;P I'm glad you like this! I just love writing AU stories, you know?
noodle-freak- I'm glad you like! :D
bob-Haha! It's okay! I'm fine with the pestering and stuff! :D It's normal to be impatient for some things! :P
OoO-Ashee-OoO- hahaha! Yeah, somehow (only I know right now), Hanako can get some answers out of Haruhi… suspicious? Nah! :P I'm glad you like!
Eileena of Idreal- Yeah, it's bound to cause some trouble… I'm glad you like! :D
Zahchi- actually, that would be pretty funny! XD I'm glad that you like this story so much!
KageNoNeko- I loooooooooooove AU fics! :P
Rvg2151
DestinyAurora
HitachiinGirl1
I'm glad you all like this story so much! I feel so loved… sniff sniff… :D
Well, I'll catch you all on the next update, ne? :D
And don't forget to REVIEW! :P
~xXPaintingRealityXx logging off! :D