* Edited and re-uploaded 04-28-10 * I apologize for any mistakes that remain.
Ouran High School Host Club belongs to Hatori Bisco
Support the mangaka and purchase the manga as it becomes available.
These events occur after chapter 76 of the manga. If you have not read chapter 77 or the prior chapters contains spoilers.
-Moments of Peace-
Haruhi woke with a headache a dull throb that started at the base of her skull and wrapped itself around the right side of her head digging into her temple. She had not slept well her rest broken by vague feelings of anxiety. The light feeling she had when the twins dropped her off had evaporated. She hoped there would not be any theatrics from Tamaki and the twins today. She stopped her shuffle toward the door and returned to sit on her bed. There would not be any theatrics from Tamaki today or tomorrow. Softly the tears traced down her face. She cried not because she could not be with Tamaki but because she realized in one of those bittersweet insights that while she missed him, she could go on and be happy. She cried because she had lost the innocent belief that her first love would be the love to stand by her side for all her days. She cried because knowing those things her heart still hurt and she mourned the loss what could have been.
-XXXXXXX-
Kyouya woke reaching for something. The sensation of petals slipping through his fingers lingering after the dream faded from his memory. He glared at his clock the alarm would ring in a few minutes. The room was dark, cool, the quiet comforting. He reached out silencing the alarms before they rent the quiet. Cradling his head in his arms he allowed his mind to awaken; reviewing his plans for the day.
-XXXXXXX-
Hikaru woke to the impact of his once warm body hitting the cold floor. He glared at his brother who stood over him fully dressed and grinning. Oh, this was defiantly war. Their home woke to the crashes and yells of the two gleefully pummeling each other.
-XXXXXXX-
Honey and Mori greeted the dawn together. Mori sitting cross-legged holding his pets sweat damping his skin from their morning work out. Honey lay sprawled on his back popping small chocolate sweets in his mouth watching the colors paint across the sky.
-XXXXXXX-
Tamaki did not awaken. He mumbled something about not feeling well and dismissed the maid sent to rouse him. His head resting on the keys of his computer the screen filled with reports he sank into a deeper sleep.
Kaoru and Hikaru were waiting for Haruhi at the gates when she arrived each slinging an arm about her shoulders. Her melancholy mood having ended once her tears dried she smiled at the boys before ducking out from under their arms.
"You two look like you have already been up to no good," her eyes narrowing as she took in their cheshire grins.
"Kaoru started it," Hikaru informed her affecting a pompous tone.
Kaoru gave a quick run and turn so he was standing in front of the two. He preformed an english style bow, "I also finished it."
Hikaru lunged for his brother who tauntingly ran ahead, "Sorry Haruhi but I can't let him get away with this," he told her as he ran after Kaoru.
She rolled her eyes, "What are they talking about?"
A stern looking Kyouya who had been standing at the school entrance halted the twins' headlong dash, "Don't you think it would be best to down play your buffoonery for now."
The two were unmoved by Kyouya's lecture, "Sorry," they chimed unrepentant.
"Good morning, senpai" Haruhi greeted Kyouya when she joined the three.
"Haruhi," he said pushing up his glasses, "it is a bit absurd not to drop the honorific when we have spent the night together."
"What," Kaoru cried laying a restraining hand on his brother's arm.
"If you don't want them to cause trouble you shouldn't bait them," Haruhi told Kyouya annoyed. Really, they could all be so childish at times, she thought. "And you two stop being idiots. You know he slept on the couch your memories can't be so faulty that you forgot since yesterday."
The three managed to look somewhat contrite and Haruhi stomped into the school her expression that of a mother with unruly toddlers.
"Ah, Haruhi I did want to tell you that I will pick you up from your class at the end of the day," Kyouya said before she had taken more than a few steps.
"Why are you taking her home," Hikaru asked curious rather than territorial.
"I'm helping her study for the university entrance exams," Kyouya wondered if he should print up a flier to hand out he was getting tired of repeating himself.
The first bell sounded abruptly ending the conversation. The twins took off at a run grabbing Haruhi as they ran past, "We're late, we're late for a very important date," they chanted down the hall.
Kyouya frowned glancing at his watch then the school entrance. He pulled out his phone.
Several rings later a drowsy sounding Tamaki answered, "Hello."
Sighing, "Tamaki how did you know to answer the phone?"
"Are you all right, Kyouya? Aren't you supposed to answer the phone when someone calls?"
Kyouya gritted his teeth, "Tamaki the phone should be on silent. How did you know I called?"
"Oh that well after the meeting with my father yesterday I purchased the most amazing watch it can be synchronized with a phone to pulse when I receive a call. It is designed to allow a businessman to know when he has received a call without disrupting him," he explained sounding brighter.
"You sound like an ad, but, that is neither here nor there. Are you coming to class?" Kyouya asked.
"Of course… what time is it?"
"Try looking at your watch."
"I'll be right there," he shouted. Before Tamaki disconnected Kyouya could hear what sounded like a chair toppling over.
Sighing he replaced his phone and leisurely entered the school. There were days he thought fate in a moment of whimsy had really designated him mother to this unruly bunch.
-XXXXXXX-
The day had been remarkably free of theatrics Haruhi reflected as she slid her papers into her bag. Hikaru and Kaoru's teasing was standard fare and had become such an expected part of her day it would have felt odd if it were absent. While she had felt a moment of sadness on seeing Tamaki at lunch, the distance was becoming less painful. Considering her childish tears in the morning the day had gone better than she had expected. Seeing Kyouya waiting for her outside the classroom caused a brief frown but she shrugged it away he said he would pick her up and he was one to keep his word.
Kyouya had been watching for her to leave the twins flanking her like over protective brothers, he smirked at the last, well not exactly like brothers. He pushed himself from the wall he had been leaning against and disengaged himself from the small group of girls who had surrounded him.
"Senpai, it isn't necessary to wait for me," Haruhi told him as he began walking along side them.
"Really, Haruhi all of us would prefer it if you would just call us by our names," his voice scolding.
"That's fine but if you are going to insist on taking me home you will have to go grocery shopping with me," she said aggravated at his tone she was not a child to be spoken down to.
He just shrugged. The twins grinned at each other over Haruhi's head. Their shared thought that if the two most arrogant people in their group did not kill one another by the end of the week it would be a miracle.
"You know the two of you are both so arrogant I don't see how you will be able to work together with out a mediator," Kaoru reflected.
Haruhi gave him a confused look, "I'm not arrogant."
The twins laughed so hard tears came to their eyes. Kyouya even chuckled as her expression changed from confusion to anger.
Hikaru held up a placating hand, "You are arrogant you just don't realize it," he pointed at Kyouya, "He knows he is arrogant. He's like some super villain," he leaned closer as though imparting a secret, "I think he has inhuman powers."
Kyouya thumped Hikaru on the head, "I am not a super villain."
"I would like to point out he did not deny having powers," Hikaru said ducking away before he could be hit a second time.
"What my idiot brother started to explain is that you are arrogant. You look down on us all the time. You are annoyed when we get excited about things you think are ordinary even though for us they are new. The stuff you do like going to the grocery store aren't things we ever got to do before. We have been isolated from most people in our experiences and you look down on our enthusiasm with out giving a thought as to the why. That is arrogant. Both you and Kyouya at times treat the rest of us like children," Kaoru said ticking each point off with a finger stopping when he saw Haruhi's face go from angry to shamed.
Haruhi opened her mouth to argue but snapped it shut as his words sank in, "I'm sorry," she cried distressed, "how can you stand me?"
Kyouya glared at the two brothers, "What they are forgetting to mention is we are all arrogant and arrogance it not necessarily a bad trait. It took a certain level of arrogance to contemplate attending this school and still more to do so. It takes arrogance to choose to go into politics and arrogance to succeed, which you will. We all have our faults," this said with another black look at the twins who now looked abashed, "and as far as yours go they are on the small side so stop being melodramatic."
Haruhi gave Kyouya an exasperated look, "You stink at cheering people up."
"It worked," he said complacently.
Haruhi shook her head amused, Hikaru and Kaoru snickered. They had reached the line of vehicles waiting to pick up students. The twins waved their good-byes hurrying to their waiting car. Kyouya touched Haruhi's elbow and nodded toward his own vehicle Tachibana, Haruhi was pleased she remembered his name, waiting next to the door.
"I still need to go to the store," she told him entering the car.
"Tell Tachibana where to go."
-XXXXXXX-
"What are we purchasing?" he asked as they entered the store.
She pulled out the list she had written the night before and handed it to him. He looked it over and wrote down a few additional items, "I will pay." He told her with a note finality.
"You don't need to do that," she said arguing even if she knew it was useless. She would not just give into him without putting up some resistance.
He gave her a speculative look, "Then I'll pay half. What is your budget?"
"About ¥6800," she told him waiting for a snide comment about the amount.
He just nodded, "Ok, what is the criteria you use to choose your purchases?"
She reached for a cart giving a small jump of surprise when he took it from her, "Well if I had to narrow it down I'd say it is the best product at a price that will still allow me to get everything on my list."
"Our budget is ¥13635 how will that affect your choices?"
"Not much there isn't really anything else we need. Even if you eat with us every night if I purchase much more it would go bad before we used it all."
"I meant would you purchase different products."
"Oh, no unless there was something specific you wanted," she said tapping her chin thoughtfully, "What about Tachibana and the others?"
"They have their own arrangements for meals," he told her pausing in front of a display of fruits.
"That makes things easier," she answered selecting a few pieces.
Shopping with Kyouya was very different from prior experiences. He questioned her in detail about each of her purchases. Wanting to know why she chose one item over another. He seemed genuinely curious and she found herself explaining with little prompting.
Finally she asked, "Kyouya why are you asking all these questions?"
He looked down at her, "I realized after being stranded at the mall by those idiots if you had not come along I would have been unable to take care of myself. That level of ignorance about common things is unacceptable. I don't need to know everything about your lifestyle but I should know how to shop for myself."
She nodded, "Well if you come with me a few more times you will be fine on your own. I think however, I'm not very necessary if you wanted to know how to do something you are the type who would figure it out."
"This is more convenient," he responded.
She looked over her list mentally tallying up the items, they had money left. She scrutinized the young man who had diligently followed her through the store, "Kyouya" her voice soft, "how is your back?"
"I am fine," he told her neutrally studying the list over her shoulder.
"Ok, there are a few things I want to get before we check out."
He nodded and followed her down another isle. She picked out bandages and various first aid items, "You don't need to worry about me. This is unnecessary; I am capable of caring for myself."
"When we get to my house I'll change your bandages. You should learn to depend on your friends. It's not a weakness you know," she said simply.
"How do you do it?" he asked.
"What?"
"Strip away all our pretences with a few words. More to the point why do you do it?"
"Don't say things like that. There is a lot I don't see or understand. Don't make me sound wise when I am grasping at straws in the dark like everyone else."
"Haruhi, you are not like everyone else. Do not belittle yourself and you have yet to answer the question."
"I don't know how to answer it," she said in a puzzled tone.
"It's not important I guess. You are as always an interesting person Fujioka Haruhi," Kyouya told her his voice lower than normal.
Haruhi stared at him but his face was closed she couldn't interpret the underlying meaning of his words. In the dark of her mind, a pinprick of light appeared where there had been none. A light so inconspicuous its presence would be unnoticed for some time to come.
They passed the rest of the shopping in semi-silence exchanging only a few words the atmosphere relaxed despite the absence of conversation.
-XXXXXXX-
Standing in front of Haruhi's door his hands gripping the handles of the shopping bags he inhaled deeply. The air had the fresh dampness that comes with spring. She opened the door and walked inside, Kyouya found himself hesitating to cross the threshold. The step it would take weighing upon him with significance. He stared at his feet his mind filled with the image of several paths stretching before him into an impenetrable fog. A chill breeze snaked about him, he felt lost unable to move.
Noticing he had not followed Haruhi turned cocking her head a smile tracing her lips, "Kyouya are you coming?"
His head jerked up her voice a welcome guide, his eyes locked onto hers, "Yes," his confidence restored, the moment faded from his consciousness.
While Haruhi put away the groceries, he pulled out his laptop beginning his work. Wordlessly she laid out the fresh bandages, a bowl of warm water pungent with the smell of antiseptic and clean cloths.
Adjusting his glasses, he turned his back to her removing his jacket and shirt. He was amused to realize he felt no awkwardness at the situation. Of course, he thought, it would be foolish if he did considering he had already spent a quality amount of time in her presence half clothed. He remained motionless allowing no sound to escape while she worked.
Her voice contemplative, "I think after tomorrow we can leave them uncovered. We should pick up an ointment for scaring to be on the safe side though."
"I'm not particularly concerned about scars, but, it would be annoying to have to take them into account every time I undressed."
Her voice amused, "I didn't think you were in the habit of stripping in front of many people."
"Hmmph, I am not an exhibitionist. I would rather no one else know about this," his voice was flat.
"Kyouya, you won't be able or rather shouldn't keep such significant events from those close to you. You should plan to tell at least one other person. After you are married you will need to tell your wife if for no other reason than so she can better support you."
"I think you were not listening the other day. My wife will not be of someone of my own choosing. I will not require nor do I wish for support in that sense from a business partner. Before you pity this unknown woman I will give her all the courtesy befitting her position as my wife."
"You will treat her then in the same manner you did your clients in the club. I feel sorry for her, but, I don't know who she will be so for now I'm saddened hearing you say you won't trust the person you are to spend your life with," even though she knew he would hate it she could not keep the pity from her voice.
"You are overly trusting," he growled angrily.
"I don't trust everyone so that is an unfair statement you're just angry and lashing out like a child," she told him unruffled.
"Really, you are alone with a half naked man. This is not the safest of situations and you say you are not to trusting," his anger not appeased by her condescending statement. He would not be pitied.
Through her hands applying the final bandage, he felt her shrug, "You would not hurt me in that way."
He was unsurprised by her comment they both knew it had been an empty threat. However, he found her wording curious, "Meaning I would hurt you some other way?"
Haruhi rested her hands on her knees, she didn't want to move until this conversation was finished, "It is unavoidable everyone will hurt a person they are close to. Knowing how someone won't hurt you says a lot about the person."
"I'm not sure if I should be flattered or offended. Do you see me as sexless," the last spoken without prior thought. Immediately he wished he could take the words back was his ego so fragile he needed to fish for compliments.
"No, I know you will not intentionally hurt me. I know I can trust you with my person," she said with the same assurance of a person predicting the sun would rise again.
"Are you sure you are not giving me too much credit? I'm not that virtuous," he questioned regret lowering his speech.
"Maybe I am making you uncomfortable telling you how much trust I have in you," her voice softening as she spoke, "If you want me to say I think you are a corrupt or selfish person at heart I will. If it will help you feel more comfortable I will lie."
He shook his head, "It's not that. I think you may be giving me a greater amount of trust than I have earned."
Sighing, she gently placed her hands on his shoulders, resting her forehead on the base of his neck. So soft he would have thought he imagined her words had it not been for her breath against his skin as she spoke, "I don't give you any greater trust than what you have given me."
He reached up a hand to clasp one of hers. They remained motionless soothed by the knowledge of this trust. Silently she broke their contact. While he buttoned his shirt, he could hear her moving about the kitchen. Intending to finish his work while she prepared dinner, he pulled out a textbook this however was not to be.
Haruhi reached down taking the book from him tossing it onto the far side of the table, "Get up you are going to learn to cook," she told him her hands on her hips a determined look on her face.
"Why would I need to know how to cook?" he questioned.
"You are the one who said you didn't want to be ignorant about how to take care of yourself. If you can't feed yourself, it won't matter how skilled you are at shopping you will still starve. I am going to teach you to cook and clean. In other words, I will teach you to be independent. You are helping me with my studies I think this is a fair trade," her tone imperious.
"I believe I also said that I don't need to know everything about your lifestyle," he smirked.
"I suppose such common skills may be beyond you. After all you are descended from nobility it is a surprise you are able to dress yourself," she told him condescendingly as she headed back to the kitchen.
He climbed to his feet if Haruhi had been watching she may have been concerned for her safety at that moment. Kyouya stalked after her his movements not those of a small-pampered housecat living with a false sense of superiority he advanced in the manner of one of the great predatory cats whose absolute command of their territory had been questioned.
She may not have seen him but she could feel him approaching. The primitive part of her brain that remembered when humans were not the top of the food chain pushing her into action, she grabbed a towel laying on the counter and threw it at his face, "Start by drying those dishes," her voice more composed than she was feeling.
Kyouya's chuckle was a sound she could feel vibrating against her bones, "As you command my sovereign."
Haruhi let out a breath she had not been aware she had been holding and felt a pleased smile form she had bearded the proverbial lion and survived.
Kyouya could see her expression from the corner of his eye. He would allow her to believe this was her victory but she had given him the means to win this little competition. If they were battling with the teaching of skills to survive then he had the perfect pawn in his sister to win this match.
The tension that had fairly crackled in the air receded. Haruhi leaving off the superior attitude she had used to taunt Kyouya into doing as she wished smiled, "Do you know anything when it come to cooking?"
"I can prepare tea," he told her gleefully imagining her chagrin when she realized the trap he was preparing for her.
"Then I'll start by telling you how to wash rice," handing him a large bowl with rice measured out for dinner.
Kyouya found himself enjoying being Haruhi's pupil. His amused smile never leaving his face he observed the change in her once she relaxed. She was smiling more readily than he had seen in a long time, "You are enjoying this," he noted.
Stopping her directions on properly slicing the vegetables for the soup, she nodded. A mischievous look in her eye, "How can I not? I am looking forward to teaching you the joys of cleaning a toilet."
"That will not happen."
"Oh, so you can dirty it but you are above cleaning it?"
"Yes."
"We'll see," she said laughing.
Dinner progressed peacefully despite Kyouya cursing a burned hand causing another trill of laughter from Haruhi. Clean up done they settled down to work. Each quickly completed their class work the task unchallenging for either. While she worked on an advanced mathematics test, he began the work assigned by his father. He had immersed himself in the reports when he became aware that Haruhi had set aside her own studies to read over his shoulder.
"Did you need help with something?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.
"No," she said continuing to read.
"It's rude to read over someone's shoulder especially if what is being read does not pertain to you," there was no annoyance in his voice he was merely making an observation.
"I know but you're irritated by something you're reading and it's distracting so I wanted to see what it was," she answered shifting so she could read more easily.
He slid his glasses up using the momentary pause to decide how to proceed, "I have been asked to read through these project proposals, summarize them and make recommendations on whether to implement any of them. Another person will then review my work and report the quality to my father. My father wishes to test my abilities. He tested my eldest brother in this manner before he began working alongside him. He now uses this to measure mine and Akito's suitability for given tasks."
She nodded, "I assumed it was something along those lines," she sat back down apparently satisfied. "I can follow about sixty percent of that," she said pointing to the report he held. "Learning the materials that will be part of the entrance exam is important but so is gaining practical knowledge such as how to understand what is not written or glossed over in a proposal. I think in politics and business there will be people pushing their own agendas. I will need to be able to look at something and determine what is beneficial for the people and what is not."
He set down the papers he was holding and reached into his bag. Pulling out a thick folder he separated the contents into two unequal stacks handing Haruhi the larger, "Here read this and do just that. I have already finished working on this one so when you are done I will look over your observations. Just don't lose focus and neglect your studies. Tomorrow I will bring a practice entrance exam to see what areas we should focus on. If you are interested we can expand your lessons to include those things, you would be taught if you were the heir of a wealthy family. I am not belittling you or your father but you will be at a disadvantage when you first start out if you do not have this knowledge."
Her eyes narrowed as she studied him. She could almost make out the outline of some plot, "What would that entail?"
"Well for one, more of this," indicating the reports, "When I am assigned a task by my father you will work on the same task alongside myself. You will be party to sensitive information but I believe you can be trusted."
"What else," she asked now thoroughly suspicious.
He smirked inwardly she walked into his trap with no bait needed, "I'll need to speak to my sister there are things I will not be able to teach you. You may wish to be judged on your abilities alone but that is naive. People who do not know you have no choice but to judge you by how you present yourself. Fuyumi can show you what you will need to know as a woman in the public eye," seeing Haruhi open her mouth in protest he held up a hand, "Do not doubt for a minute that your gender will affect your success. It can be either a hindrance or an asset. I do not mean you should sell yourself proverbially or otherwise. As a female in a male dominated field, you will need to have all the skills of a man and those of a woman. Is this still the path you want to take? You will have to work harder and longer than your male counter parts to achieve the same goals."
Haruhi felt her ire raise she had walked right into this, damn him. Why did everyone seem to be so determined to force her to knowledge her gender? Each word clipped, "I am not so naïve that I am unaware of all of that. I will not be deterred by something like this; however, I refuse to become some hothouse flower."
His face serious Kyouya gave her the assurance she wanted, "I will not nor will Fuyumi attempt to make you into someone you are not. She will help you to refine the elegance you already posses. Is that acceptable?"
"Before I answer tell me why you are doing this?" she asked piercing him with her gaze.
He gave her the truth, "I don't know. Vanity I suppose. I want to have a part in your success."
She cocked her head a puzzled smile on her face, "You are an interesting person Ootori Kyouya. I accept on one condition you must agree to my lessons."
He gave her his smile in turn glancing at the clock he began gathering up his things, "Read the report I expect a review completed by tomorrow. I will also arrange things with my sister. I'll be picking you up from class from now on so be prepared."
He paused looking back at her before exiting the apartment, "I accept your condition."
Once she was sure, he was out of earshot Haruhi double over in laughter. He may not have realized it but he had just agreed to clean the toilet.
-XXXXXXX-
Reaching his car, he looked at the two men waiting, "Hotta, I would like you to remain here until Ranka-san returns from work. Please be discrete if you are capable of such."
The older man nodded exiting the vehicle.
Satisfied that all had been ordered Kyouya called his sister, "Fuyumi, I have a favor to ask…"
-XXXXXXX-
Tamaki rubbed his face with one hand leaning back in his chair. His eyes felt raw from hours spent reading on the computer. He locked his fingers behind his head contemplating his next move. If anyone who knew him had seen his face at this time, he would have been unrecognizable. The seriousness of his expression more suited to Kyouya or Haruhi. He slid the phone Kyouya had given him from his pocket flipping it open only to stare at the glowing screen for several long minutes. He knew if he made this move there would be no going back. He could not afford to go forward with this unless he was fully committed.
"Hikaru," he asked when the elder of the twins answered his call, "are the two of you bored?"
"Tono," Hikaru said surprised switching the phone to speaker so Kaoru could listen, "what did you have in mind?"
-XXXXXXX-
The days passed Haruhi and Kyouya settled into a routine that while not always peaceful as they disagreed mostly about cleaning lessons it was comfortable. Hikaru and Kaoru began leaving quickly after school Haruhi felt sure they were involved in something but as yet she had not figured out what and they were not letting any hints slip. Honey and Mori came to visit her and Kyouya a few times and while those nights were not as productive, they were a welcome break from the intensity of their work. Tamaki exhibited no outward signs anyone could point to but the club members observed a subtle if undefined change in him.
-XXXXXXX-
The cherry blossoms fell leaving the hope of fruit to mature in their place.
-XXXXXXX-
"Haruhi," Kyouya said breaking the quiet of the trip to her apartment, "if you are available my sister would like to meet you Saturday evening."
"Um," she felt a nervous flutter in her stomach, "I don't have anything planned the twins are wrapped up in something and haven't demanded my attention this weekend."
"They are helping Tamaki. I don't know the details as he has asked me to remain uninvolved unless asked," he explained.
"Why wouldn't he want your help?"
"Likely it is because my father is involved in the events playing out with his family. He doesn't want me to be in a position that would force me to choose between my loyalties," Kyouya marveled at the changes he was seeing in his foolish friend. It was as if Tamaki were stepping out of the fairytale world he had created and rather than being overwhelmed by the harshness of reality he was being honed by it.
"What is he planning?" she wondered.
Kyouya looked at her from the corner of his eye, "As I said I don't know the details but I believe like you he is no longer willing to be a pawn. I think he is planning to force his acceptance as the Souh heir, a coup so to speak."
Haruhi faced Kyouya astonishment in her eyes, "I never considered he would take that path. You will let him know I'll help any way I can?"
"I will tell him," Kyouya told her ignoring the uncomfortable flash of feeling her expression incited.
She sighed and leaned back in the seat closing her eyes, "We can't go back to the way we were," she held up her hand spreading her fingers, "I wonder if our paths will keep taking us further from each other?"
Kyouya leaned toward her placing his palm against hers matching the splay of his fingers to hers, "Our paths may separate but see how easy it is to still touch each other."
She blushed slightly at the unexpected contact dropping her hand, "About meeting your sister…"
Kyouya sat back, "I was planning to introduce the two of you Saturday evening. She comes over once a month to have dinner with each of us individually," he shook his head amused; "it is my evening with her this weekend. She seems to think if she left my father, Akito, and myself to our own devises for an extend period of time we will fall into barbarism."
Haruhi gave a weak smile at the image, "More likely she is afraid of the nefarious plots that would be implemented by the three of you with out an ethical influence to counter weight your tendencies."
"Haruhi, do you truly think I am so corrupt," he protested an amused glint in his eye.
"No, I don't think you are corrupt but the capability to cross that line is there. As for your brother, I can't say," her voice thick with disdain, "Your father is another story."
"You're being rather rude," he pointed out.
"Sorry, you're right," she said genuinely regretting her words.
"It's alright but consider this my father may be ruthless but he does not compromise when it comes to protecting the company's interest and that of our employees. He takes the responsibility of providing for their needs seriously. He has ensured that all of us are aware of our duty to our employees in all our decisions. As a result, we have the strongest loyalty among our subordinates of any company. In turn, our employees perform to a higher standard. It is a give and take," even if he did not know why he wanted Haruhi to understand some of what motivated his father.
She faced him her gaze unflinching, "I can respect some of his actions when put in that context, however, I will not forget or forgive all of them."
Kyouya turned away uncertain how to respond he changed the subject, "What are we making for dinner?"
Haruhi relaxed against the seat once more a mischievous smile forming, "I was planning to order in. Do you have a preference?"
"Not particularly but this seems a bit out of character. I thought you were intent on teaching me to cook."
"Not just to cook," she smiled, "I have been teaching you other household chores and tonight's task will undoubtedly be onerous."
Kyouya's eyes narrowed, "Why is that?"
"Because you are stubborn and you will have to wrestle your pride to complete it."
"I will not clean a toilet," something more than irritation and less than anger in his voice.
"Not just the toilet, the whole bathroom," a self-satisfied smirk on her face, "I have acquiesced to your instructions up to and including changing my appearance and habits. You, as I recall agreed to me teaching you as well or are you going to go back on your word?"
He stared at her open mouthed how the hell did this happen? He had been out maneuvered, "I do not go back on my word but I am not about to let this go gracefully. This round is yours but I will win the next."
"I'm looking forward to it," she said as she hopped out of the car and sprinted toward her apartment.
Kyouya shook his head and turned to the two men sitting unnaturally still in the front seat, "Not a word."
They nodded. He chose to ignore what sounded like laughter coming from behind him as he followed Haruhi into her home.
-XXXXXXX-
Kyouya stood in the middle of the small bathroom distaste clear on his face. He had changed from his school uniform to clothes he had brought from home. He had begun keeping a few spare outfits at Haruhi's anticipating the need for casual clothes with her lessons.
She smiled brightly handing him a spray can of cleaner and a rag, "Relax you won't be permanently damaged by doing this. If you can get through this with little fuss I'll give you a treat of your choice," she held up a finger, "with in reason that is."
He couldn't help but smirk, "I see you have learned to put limits on those types of statements."
She shrugged exasperated, "Between the twins and Tamaki I had to."
She took a bottle of toilet bowl cleaner and squirted the unnaturally green liquid along the inside of the bowl, "Let this sit while we clean the rest of the room. It's best to save this for last." Taking the spray can from him; she stepped into the tub and began spraying the foaming cleaner along the walls.
When she climbed onto the edge of the tub, balancing on her toes one arm braced against the wall to reach higher Kyouya shook his head. He encircled her waist with his hands lifting her from the tub and placing her so her feet were once more firmly touching the floor, "I thought I was supposed to be learning to do this? Besides I think my life would be forfeit if you split your head open while I just stood here and watched," he held a hand out for the cleaner.
Confusion and embarrassment evident she handed him the can, "I'm not going to fall. I do this all the time."
Stepping into the tub Kyouya began spraying where she had left off, "You are not the most graceful person. I would prefer you not rely on your questionable abilities while I am present at least."
"You can be pretty insulting," she grumbled closing the lid on the toilet so she could sit. If he was going to be an ass she would let him clean the rest on his own.
"Yes."
She felt a childish urge to make a face at his back instead, she crossed her arms and glared, "Wipe everything down when you're done and then rinse the whole tub with water."
He simply nodded. After a few minutes, the novelty of watching him work wore thin. She got up and knelt outside of the tub to begin wiping the cleaner that had run into the tub off.
Knocking interrupted their work and Haruhi jumped up to answer the door pausing in her rush to grab money from her wallet. Kyouya who had followed behind ignored her and answered the door pulling out his wallet as the delivery boy smiled an automatic greeting,
"How much do I owe you?" he questioned.
"I got this," she protested coming to stand next to him money in hand.
"If you were serious about giving me a treat of my choice then I would like to treat you to something without an argument from you for once," he told her handing a small handful of bills to the delivery boy who had handed over the sacks of food.
"Thank you," she said unable to come up with anything else that would not lead to an argument or sound ungrateful.
"You're welcome," he said giving her a small-satisfied smile as he walked past.
Dinner and cleaning completed the two as had become their custom began their class work.
"Kyouya, I won't be able to study with you tomorrow," she told him softly looking past his shoulder.
He glanced at the wall behind him seeing only a calendar he gave her a questioning look, "That is fine if you like I can still give you a ride home."
"No, I have to go somewhere after school," not meaning to be mysterious but she was reluctant to talk about her plans.
He let the silence stretch before answering, "Ok, I won't wait for you."
The evening ended with Kyouya suggesting materials for her to review on her own. She nodded her acknowledgment and continued working while he let himself out. As he had each night since he began coming to her home he instructed Hotta to remain behind until Ranka came home chuckling a bit imagining her annoyance if she ever found out.
-XXXXXXX-
Haruhi walked up the steps to her apartment her head bowed. Absent-mindedly she adjusted her glasses. She had not felt ambitious enough that morning to don her contacts. She had tried to shake the uncomfortable weight of her emotions from her mind on the walk home but with each step, they seemed to settle more firmly about her. Wrapped up in her tear-laced thoughts she didn't notice her door had been unlocked when she entered what should have been an empty home.
She gave a yelp of surprise raising an arm to swing at the figure that appeared in front of her. Kyouya quickly grasped her wrist his voice calming, "It's me."
"K-Kyouya," she stuttered.
He let go of her arm looking down at her amused, "Come on, I expected you home half an hour ago we will need to hurry." With that said, he walked around her toward the door.
"I told you I couldn't study with you today," she said bewildered making no move to follow.
He ignored her turning around long enough to grab the back of her collar and pull her to the door.
She twisted angrily shoving his arm away, "What the hell has gotten into you," she demanded.
Sighing he adjusted his glasses facing her, "We are going someplace obviously and before you ask you will need to wait and see. You can either come peacefully or I will have Tachibana carry you."
She gaped at him, "That's kidnapping."
"Fine," he walked out of the apartment calling over the railing, "Tachibana can you come up here?"
Haruhi's eyes got large, "You wouldn't."
He looked at her.
She sagged, "You would. Fine you win. Let's go."
He smirked, "I did tell you that I would win the next round. I promise however this will not be as unpleasant as say cleaning a bathroom."
She eyed him suspiciously, as she followed him down the steps, "You were bluffing," she accused.
"Of course," he said shrugging, "but since you believed I would carry through with my threat it is as effective as if I were to force you to accompany me. Your misconception of what I was willing to do to get my way made you easy to manipulate."
"You and Tamaki are a like in that you both make simple things much more dramatic and elaborate than necessary," her voice icy, "Though you seem to take delight in being as intimidating as possible when you go about it."
He gave a small laugh and ran a hand through his hair, "I suppose his flair for theatrics has rubbed off on me," he said motioning for her to enter the car before him.
The tense atmosphere of the car caused Kyouya to shift uncomfortably; he suspected he had carried things to far.
"I'm sorry," he said breaking the silence that was a wedge between them.
"You could have just asked," she grumbled not willing to be pacified.
"I could say I was trying to teach you a lesson on how your misconceptions can be easily used to trick you," his voice dull.
Haruhi gave a disbelieving snort continuing to stare out the window.
After a while, she began to recognize where they were going, "Kyouya are we going to your home?"
"Yes," he answered casually, "I don't believe you have ever seen the gardens we keep. I thought this would be a nice change from our usual routine."
"I told you I couldn't study tonight, I didn't want a ride home because I had plans what gives you the right to come into my home and imperialistically order me to accompany you? Couldn't you just leave me alone for one night? I don't want to go on some stupid outing I want to go home," she yelled at him. Frustrated she had to clasp her hands together to fight the urge to strangle her normally sane friend.
His eyes widened in surprise at her outburst, "Haruhi, I'm sorry. I didn't think you should be alone tonight. Knowing you if I had offered to come over you would have refused. I know this is a hard day for you and your father. He has his work to distract him but you were planning on spending the evening alone."
Kyouya reached across the seat slipping her glasses from her face. He leaned back taking a cloth from his pocket to clean the lenses. His voice low his concern unfeigned, "When you cry your glasses become spotted from your tears."
When he handed her glasses back she mumbled her thanks.
As they exited the vehicle Haruhi sighed, "I'm sorry I yelled but next time you want to do something considerate try not being an ass, it makes the gesture more effective."
"I'll keep that in mind," he led the way into the mansion nodding greetings to the servants they passed.
Closing the door to his rooms behind them, he turned to Haruhi.
"I will have our dinner served here," he told her placing a call to the kitchen staff, "While we wait would you please accompany me through the gardens?"
"Yes, I think that would be nice," her voice matching his. She wondered at the two of them they bickered endlessly. However, she reflected their arguments were mostly for amusement. Maybe they were no better than the twins the thought bringing a giggle.
"Something humorous?" he questioned.
"I was just thinking we are not that different from Hikaru and Kaoru the way we argue"
He smirked, "Don't share that thought with them or we will lose all creditability."
"My lips are sealed. I'd be in more trouble than you anyway they would still be afraid of you."
"So," he asked as he held the door leading to the garden open for her, "am I forgiven."
Haruhi took a few steps outside before stopping, awe freezing her thoughts, "It's beautiful," the only words she managed to utter as she slowly stepped onto the path.
He felt a wistful smile cross his face, "I am told my mother designed this."
"I've never heard you talk about your mother," she said tentatively. She allowed her fingers to brush against the plants that dipped onto the path as though in greeting as they passed.
"There isn't much to say. I was three when she died so I don't have any memories of her. Fuyumi used to tell me stories when I was little but I was never able to relate them to a real person," he spoke looking at Haruhi's wondering face as she gazed about the garden the fading pink light giving her an ethereal look. The air cooling with the fading light he stopped brushing his fingertips against her arm, "I want to show you something. Will you trust me enough to close your eyes? It's just a few steps away."
In answer, she closed her eyes. He reached down entwining his fingers with her's gently pulling her closer he guided her from the path pushing aside the plants that grew so thick they formed a natural wall.
True to his word a few feet from the path, they stopped despite having her eyes closed Haruhi could feel the openness of the area. Her face felt flushed and she was grateful for the dim light of dusk being led by Kyouya felt more intimate than the simple act entailed.
He led her to a small stone bench his fingers softly pushing down on her shoulders until she sat the seat still warm from the sun. He stepped back from her wanting to see her face clearly, "Ok, you can open your eyes."
Haruhi opened her eyes looking past Kyouya to the scene before her, "Is this real," she whispered.
He felt a tightness in his chest loosen. He had never brought another person to this part of the garden, it was his sanctuary. He had sat in her place long into the night debating whether to bring her. He did not have any personal memories of his mother but she had left a living reminder of herself in the garden she had designed. He had found this spot during one of his many ramblings as a child. He still remembered how he thought he had found a secret world.
"It's real," he answered turning to face the setting sun. The last glow of the sun colored half the pond centered in the clearing. Contrasting the orange glow of the water the other half of the pond was cloaked in darkness. Rather than being ominous, it felt warm like velvet drawn against the body. Rounded stones were scattered along the edge of the water appearing to glow in the darkening night.
"In the summer the air is thick with the perfume of the flowers, at night…," He stopped he lacked the words to describe a place that seemed untouched by the corruption of the world.
"She must have been an amazing person to have designed this," Haruhi told him.
"I like to think she was," he answered sitting down on the grass leaning against the bench he closed his eyes, "What was your mother like?"
Haruhi slid from the bench her defenses crumbling at his simple question. She wrapped her arms around her legs choking tears filling her eyes, "I loved her. She was perfect and everything I wanted to be. I know it's been eleven years but I can't stop wishing she was here."
He wrapped his arms around her pulling her against his chest, "It's alright to cry Haruhi. There is no one here but us, you don't have to be strong for me, you are allowed to mourn. I'll be your strength this time so it is ok."
-XXXXXXX-
It was fully dark before they returned to his rooms. Dinner had been laid out while they were outside. Haruhi suspected someone must have been keeping watch for them, as it was still warm. She felt drained emotionally and physically. While Kyouya disappeared into the other room she laid down on the couch to worn to eat. When her returned he found her asleep, smiling he covered her with a blanket and knelt at the table to eat.
It was late when she woke blinking in confusion at her unfamiliar surroundings. She sat up to see Kyouya head propped up by one hand the other flipping the pages of a report muttering to himself about idiots.
He looked up, "If you're hungry there are sandwiches. The soup has already been taken away."
"Umm, what time is it?" she asked.
"Almost mid-night don't worry I called Ranka-san and told him we were studying late. He informed me I was to return you in the same condition you were in when you left the house this morning and said to tell you he loved you and not to work to hard," he couldn't keep the amusement from his voice.
She groaned in embarrassment, "I'll take a sandwich but I should go home soon."
He nodded in agreement handing her the plastic wrapped food, "Let me finish this report and I'll take you."
"How did you know about to today and my mom?"
"You were looking at the calendar when you told me you weren't available today. It didn't take much effort to figure out it was the anniversary of her death," he explained while jotting notes onto a pad of paper next to him.
"Thank you."
Kyouya looked up from his work frowning. He quickly waded up a piece of paper and threw it at her head, "Stop that there is nothing to thank me for."
In answer, Haruhi hit him in the side of the face with a pillow. He glared at her reaching for the fallen missile as he stood up. Twenty minutes later after much breathless laughter, they exited the mansion the mood considerably happier than when they entered.
-XXXXXXX-
It was early Saturday evening when Kyouya walked into the Fujioka apartment. Haruhi raised an eyebrow when he entered without knocking but her father grinned and motioned for Kyouya to join him at the table.
"How are you doing," Ranka asked handing Kyouya a cup of tea.
"Much better than when we last spoke," he answered sipping the steaming drink.
"I'm glad to hear that but don't tell me the two of you are planning to study tonight. To much work is as bad as too little," Ranka told the young man kneeling across from him.
"No, tonight I invited Haruhi to have dinner with my sister and myself. It seems my sister would like to meet the person I have been spending so much time with," he told Ranka his voice nonchalant.
Ranka eyed Kyouya the internal father sirens going off. He frowned into his cup, he was the one who had proposed Kyouya spending more time at their house and with Haruhi but he was still a teenage boy. He turned to look at his dear sweet daughter what if… his thoughts halted. Haruhi was dressed in an oversized t-shirt and jeans, "You aren't going out dressed like that," he complained automatically.
Kyouya grinned Ranka's thoughts had been easy to read, "It's just a casual dinner she can wear whatever is comfortable."
"Dad there is nothing wrong with what I am wearing," Haruhi told him annoyed.
"But you don't even look cute," he whined getting up with the intention of forcing her to change.
Kyouya stood up sensing a family argument brewing, "Ranka-san its fine. I would rather she be herself than put on an act just to suit others views. Haruhi if you're ready we should be going."
Relief evident Haruhi nodded giving her speechless father a quick kiss on the cheek before following Kyouya out the door.
Ranka plopped ungracefully onto the floor a stunned expression on his face. "Damn," he cursed himself, "I am an idiot. But at least I am not as big of an idiot as they are."
-XXXXXXX-
Fuyumi took one look at Haruhi and wrapped her in a hug.
Letting the startled girl go Fuyumi stepped back holding onto Haruhi's hands she gave her an appraising look then turned to her brother, "Well I suppose I can see how someone not really looking at her could mistake her for a guy. She isn't going to be able to pull off the act much longer though," her expression serious she met Haruhi's eyes, "The people who see you often haven't noticed because the changes have been happening over a long period of time but you are not boyish in any way but your dress."
"Umm, I don't really care if people know I am a girl or not," Haruhi told the pretty woman standing in front of her.
"That may be but if you don't do something soon they will find out and things could become ugly," Fuyumi explained looking at both Haruhi and Kyouya.
Kyouya gave a nod of acknowledgement.
Haruhi frowned pulling her hands from Fuyumi, "I get it already I'm not that dense. I wouldn't care if it were only me who would be affected but I don't want to see my friends hurt. I'm just not sure what to do. At this point I don't think showing up one day in the girl's uniform is the best solution."
Fuyumi smiled, "If you're half as smart as he says you are you'll think of something."
Haruhi reached up to rub the back of her neck not sure what to make of Kyouya's sister.
The meal passed pleasantly. Haruhi half way through concluded that Fuyumi despite the strong resemblance could not really be an Ootori. She was open and kind in a manner few people were capable of and Haruhi couldn't help but like her.
Kyouya spent the majority of the meal with a self-congratulatory smirk and the rest wondering at the wisdom of introducing the two. They both seemed to take a personal delight in poking fun at him.
"I'll pick you up tomorrow at ten. We can go shopping and then have lunch," Fuyumi told Haruhi as she was leaving.
Unable to disappoint the other woman she nodded her acceptance.
-XXXXXXX-
Haruhi took one look at the store Fuyumi was leading her into and dug her heels into the floor
"Fuyumi-san," she hissed under her breath, "I can't afford anything in there."
Fuyumi gave her a puzzled look, "I know but won't you please let me spoil you. I always wanted a younger sister," she begged giving Haruhi a pair of pleading puppy eyes that would put Tamaki to shame.
Haruhi shored up her internal defenses at the look, "No, I don't think that would be appropriate. You just met me and …" Haruhi's voice trailed off seeing a calculating look behind Fuyumi's innocent expression, "I'm going to lose this argument aren't I," she ended.
Fuyumi gave a wide-eyed blink then grinned, "Yes, but if you give in gracefully now I will tell you embarrassing stories about Kyouya while we shop."
"They had better be blackmail worthy," Haruhi said caving.
Fuyumi grinned wickedly, "I have pictures."
Haruhi looked into the store and took a deep breath marching into the shop with the finality of a person marching into battle.
Fuyumi giggled at the look, "I promise it won't be that bad."
An hour later, they broke for lunch. Fuyumi having induced Haruhi into wearing one of outfits she had purchased they were seated in one of the many restaurants that dotted the shopping center.
Haruhi not willing to admit it to anyone else was having fun. The clothes Fuyumi had picked out were comfortable and nothing like the frilly girlish dresses, everyone else forced upon her. She had exchanged the pink sundress and sweater her father had insisted she wear for a pair of tan leather boots, jeans, a silky dark green tank top, and a brown corduroy jacket. It was one of the few times she felt she was wearing her own clothes and not playing dress up. The sacks at their feet contained a few other outfits along the same line. Fuyumi had explained to Haruhi that it wasn't necessary for her to dress like a doll on display to be feminine she only needed to find styles that suited both her personality and her figure.
While they waited for their food, Fuyumi continued her instruction, "Watch the people in here especially the women."
Obligingly Haruhi began observing the other patrons interactions.
"The women here are mostly the wives and daughters of elite businessmen. You can learn a lot about the relationships of different companies by watching how they relate to one another. There is a hierarchy that is observed, a woman of lower social standing will approach a higher placed woman to offer a greeting not the other way around at times this can supersede normal tokens of respect given to some one of greater age," she explained sipping her drink.
"You didn't greet anyone when we entered," Haruhi pointed out.
"I am married to Shido Ren and I am an Ootori there are not many women who out rank me. They are also trying to determine who you are before they approach. Don't worry most will leave us alone unless they have specific business with me," Fuyumi told her.
"Shido-kun," a masculine voice called across the restaurant.
Fuyumi frowned but turned to give the man approaching their table a polite smile, "Watch everything you say around this man," she whispered to Haruhi without moving her lips.
Haruhi sat up straighter watching the man give Fuyumi a shallow bow in greeting. He was attractive his features European, his dark hair stylishly cut, and he was as tall as Mori though she noted he seemed to have more muscle mass but not to excess. Judging by the reactions of the other women, he was well liked. She wondered if she would have been more impressed if she had not spent so much time with the host club and seen similar reactions from the other boys' clients. She smiled to herself remembering that she had also been the recipient of the same reactions as well.
"My dear I missed you and your husband last weekend I hope nothing was wrong," he said solicitously.
Haruhi fought the urge to roll her eyes.
"No, Edwards-san we were previously engaged," Fuyumi answered.
He looked at Haruhi and she felt her distaste increase as his gaze roamed over her body like he was shopping, "Please introduce me to your lovely companion."
"Fujioka-chan this is Edwards Simon. His company specializes in overseas transports. Edwards-san this is Fujioka Haruhi. She is a close friend of my younger brother Kyouya. They attend Ouran High School together," Fuyumi's voice was firm she had seen his face when he looked at Haruhi.
He didn't hide his disappointment at Fuyumi's words but he quickly recovered giving her a brilliant smile its effect wasted on Haruhi who had seen Tamaki and the others produce better, "It is always a pleasure to meet such a delicate young flower. I hope I will see you many more times over the next few years," he said leaning closer to Haruhi only to step back abruptly when the waiter arrived with their food, "Ah, I see your meal is here. I will leave you to dine in peace. I hope to see both of you in the near future."
He walked away after giving Haruhi another quick look.
Once the waiter departed the angry words Haruhi had been holding back escaped, "What an ass."
Fuyumi nodded, "He is a notorious playboy, but, he is relatively harmless. I'll mention to Kyouya and Ren that we ran into him incase there was something going on besides him wanting to make you his next toy."
Haruhi choked on her food, "His toy?"
"You are his type if a bit young. Though I made a point of dropping Kyouya's name in connection with your own I am not sure it will be enough to keep him from making a pass at you if the opportunity arises," seeing Haruhi's blushing face she cocked her head.
"Haruhi, you really are unaware of the affect you can have on the men around you," she frowned concerned, "Being humble is all well and good but for your own safety you need to develop an awareness of these things before you get hurt."
Haruhi glared at her food, "I am not a child," she said feeling childish for uttering the words.
"That is exactly the problem. You are very pretty when you don't try to hide yourself in the background and as you get older you will become more so. I can see why Kyouya thought to introduce us. Being a woman is not a bad thing and neither is it weak," she sighed, "Never mind for now let's enjoy the rest of our day. I promised Kyouya we would stop by before I take you home."
-XXXXXXX-
Fuyumi and Haruhi walked into Kyouya's rooms to be greeted by the smiling faces of the host club. Kyouya smiled in response to Haruhi's surprised and wary expression. Fuyumi who had been party to his plan stepped forward greeting each of them.
That apparently being the signal Honey, Mori, and the twins surrounded Haruhi exclaiming over how cute she looked everyone except Mori who just nodded and said, "Ah," at appropriate points in Honey's dialog.
Kyouya stood a little back from the group his arms crossed light glinting off his glasses. After a few minutes, he cleared his throat causing the attention to shift to him, "Haruhi, I believe there is someone else who would like to speak to you," he said with a look to her right.
She turned to see a familiar face watching her shyly from across the room. The others stepped back as she half-ran to embrace the blond young man.
"Tamaki," she breathed holding onto him with as much strength as he had ever her.
Tenderly he wrapped one arm around her, his other hand pressing her head against his chest; he bent his head to inhale the scent of her hair. "Haruhi," he whispered his voice choked with emotion.
Kyouya ushered the others from the room. He closed the door behind him leaving the two alone.
Haruhi stepped back from Tamaki though he still held one of her hands, "I have missed you."
His smile sad he led her to the couch. Seated he took her other hand before answering, "I've missed you as well," tears filling his eyes, "It hurt every time I saw you and couldn't speak to you," he reached up to stroke the side of her face, "couldn't touch you."
She closed her eyes at his touch her chest tightening painfully with grief, "What about your grandmother?"
Tamaki let his hand slip away from her face wrapping around her hand again, "Kyouya told you I am planning to force my acceptance as heir."
She nodded.
"I have to move quickly if I want to counter both my father and grandmother's plans. I don't have everything set up but you have made it easier," he told her his words obscure.
"What do you mean?"
"When you decided to no longer be in a position where others can use," he gave a small nod indicating her clothes, "your appearance as a boy and threat of revealing our deception has been one of the things they have held over me."
"I'm sorry," she said looking down.
"Don't be. I wouldn't trade any of it and really the rest of us are at greater fault than you," he told her raising her face with a soft touch. "You're very beautiful," he told her sadness in his voice, "I can never ask for enough forgiveness for hurting you."
Haruhi touched his face her fingertips brushing away the tears on his cheeks, "Silly man you cry too easily. There is nothing to forgive."
"I love you, Haruhi," he whispered
"I love you as well," she answered.
-XXXXXXX-
Tamaki stepped out of the room unsurprised to see Kyouya leaning against the wall.
The dark meeting the light in the center of the hallway.
Tamaki reached out to grip Kyouya's shoulder as he walked past heading toward the sounds of the others' voices.
Kyouya watched Tamaki walk away before walking through the partially open door. Haruhi was starring out the window her legs curled under her. She turned to look at him when she heard the click of the door closing.
"Haruhi, are you ok?" he asked hesitatingly.
"Yes, I believe I am," she answered turning back to the window.
He crossed the room to stand by her. When he didn't say anything she looked at him, "It's ok to ask."
"If you already know what I am going to ask why don't you just answer?" he questioned.
She gave him a faint smile.
Sighing he sat down, "What happened?"
"What you expected," she answered.
He waited for her to continue.
"This is the second time someone as told me they love me but not enough to be with me. If this keeps happening I may develop a complex," she joked half-heartedly.
"What," Kyouya exclaimed this was not what he had predicted.
"It really is ok," she told him calmly, "I realized I do love Tamaki but I don't feel for him the way my parents did for one another."
"I'm not sure I understand," he admitted.
Haruhi stood pulling Kyouya up with her, "That's ok too. Come on everyone is waiting."
Author's Note:
Long. I knew this would be a long chapter but I did not anticipate how long it would take to write. Please, please I really would like feedback.
I know this was a slower chapter made more so by it's length. The next few will be faster paced but due to the intricacies of the plot that is developing they may be delayed in coming out.
Special note Unknown male voice is down with the flu and banned from my place until no longer disease ridden. I am sure he will have a lot to say next time.