* 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.
-Stolen Kiss-
Thursday dawned happily and Haruhi woke reluctantly. Her eyes felt gritty and whether it was absurd or not she found the cheerful morning light mocking. She knew she was being foolish when the breeze coming through her open window caused her to slam it closed. This was going to be a long day she thought as she hurried to calm her father who had rushed into the room to defend his "helpless daughter" from an evil fiend.
-XXXXXXX-
There was the crack of breaking plastic as Kyouya threw the last of the three alarm clocks he had installed next to his bed to insure he awoke however reluctantly on time to start his day. He had spent all but the last few hours of the prior night creating semi-fictitious companies under the twins' names. Accepting that he would not fall back to sleep even if he were given the option, he dragged himself from his bed and into the bathroom.
-XXXXXXX-
Tamaki greeted the morning by leaning precariously out his window calling cheerful greetings to the two snarling dogs waiting below. Grinning he reached into the pocket of his robe tossing a bit of cake he had hidden in his pocket the night before to each dog. He chuckled and shut the window after witnessing the dogs' leap up to catch their treats. If only he could be sure, they would not do the same to him if he were to climb down from the window.
-XXXXXXX-
Hikaru gazed at his sleeping brother the light from the window lending a golden glow to Kaoru's face. With a maniacal grin, he upended a bucket of ice water onto his brother. The resulting bedlam served as a familiar wake up call for the rest of the household.
-XXXXXXX-
Honey stretched a pleased smile on his face as he snuggled himself once more into the bed, slipping his arm around the waist of his still dozing companion.
-XXXXXXX-
Mori slid his phone into his pocket his face devoid of expression as he contemplated the latest news he had received. With a small grunt of acceptance, he began his morning workout in solitude.
-XXXXXXX-
The twins exchanged worried glances over Haruhi's head. Hikaru reached across the aisle to poke her with the pointed end of his pencil causing her to jerk upward in her seat her eyes franticly scanning the room.
Not seeing a disapproving teacher looming over her she turned to glare at the offending twin, "What," she hissed under her breath.
"You were sleeping," Hikaru told her in a placating tone.
Her eyes narrowed, "I was not sleeping," she huffed childishly.
Kaoru leaned across the way to tap her on her shoulder, "You were drooling. Are you ok?"
Haruhi glanced down at the sleeve of her jacket confirming there was indeed a suspicious damp spot. She felt her face redden, "I'm fine. I just haven't had much sleep the last few nights. We've been up until almost dawn for the last three days setting up the companies. We're done now so it shouldn't be so bad after this," she explained smothering a yawn behind her hand.
"Why don't you go to the nurse's office?" Kaoru suggested keeping an eye on the teacher who had been giving them an odd look.
She shook her head in denial, "I can't afford to miss class."
Hikaru snorted, "Hmmph, like being here is doing you so much good. You know we can take notes for you. Go lay down before you pass out again."
"No, I'm fine. It's almost lunch I'll make it until then. If it makes you feel better, I'll take a nap then. You guys will wake me up right," she questioned giving them a contrived smile.
Hikaru gave her a wide-eyed look but nodded reluctantly. She was in worse shape than they initially thought if she was acting like this. It was almost as bad as Mori's personality change when he was tired.
-XXXXXXX-
The brothers escorted a sulky Haruhi to the nurse's office once class released for lunch then went in search of Tamaki and Kyouya.
They found the two surrounded by Tamaki's customary entourage of fawning girls. Kaoru groaned he did not feel like wading through the girls and it would only get worse if more of the former club members were together. Hikaru pulled his phone from his pocket and tapped out message to Kyouya before giving a jerk of his head for his brother to follow.
Kaoru unlocked the door to the third music room while Hikaru kept watch. The two were comfortably sprawled on their customary couch when Tamaki and Kyouya entered a few minutes later.
"How did you get the key?" Kyouya asked curiously.
"What key," Hikaru smirked.
"I picked the lock," Kaoru explained glancing at the clock lunch was half over.
"You two are very wicked," Tamaki scolded looking around the room his expression vaguely longing.
"What did you need," Kyouya asked adjusting his glasses.
"Haruhi is in the nurse's office, she fell asleep in class," Kaoru explained, "She needs to go home and sleep but she won't listen to us."
Hikaru sulked a little at his brother's words but didn't argue.
Tamaki shook his head, "There's not much I can do. She listens to the two of you better than she ever did me to begin with and now …." He left the rest unsaid.
Hikaru ignored Tamaki. He knew the person they needed to talk to was not their club's figurehead but the shadow king, "You look like shit," he told Kyouya rudely.
Kyouya raised an eyebrow at the remark, "You have a point I assume."
Hikaru stood up walking past the two seniors, "You know what you need to do. Both of you go get some rest."
Kaoru his eyes wide with surprise jumped up to follow his brother from the room, "Tell her we'll take notes for her and we'll see her tomorrow."
Tamaki gave Kyouya a mock salute and linked his arm through Kaoru's the two rushing to grapple Hikaru from behind causing him to yell incoherently and chase after them as they rapidly disappeared down the hall.
Kyouya with a sigh and a roll of his eyes closed the door behind him heading to the nurse's office.
-XXXXXXX-
With a soft knock, he opened the door, the nurse looking up from her desk to give him a bright smile.
"May I help you?" she asked.
"I'm here to escort Fujioka Haruhi home," he told her adjusting his glasses.
The petite woman gave him a small smile, "Your name?"
"Ootori Kyouya."
She nodded and walked behind a curtain. He could hear the low murmur of voices then the nurse returned giving Kyouya an amused smile, "Fujioka-kun will be with you momentarily. Will you need an excuse for class?"
"If it is not too much trouble," he told her gracing her with a smile he never used in the presence of his friends.
He was unsurprised to see the woman's eyes widen minutely or the faint coloring of her skin. He was well aware of the effect of his smile on older women. One such had told him it was a smile that would tempt a saint to sin, he hated it. It left a foul taste in his mouth and sour feeling in his stomach however, there were times it was useful. The sound of the curtain being pushed aside caused him to quickly vanish the smile from his face not wanting Haruhi to see it.
Haruhi's brows creased together as she looked from Kyouya to the nurse who had turned away. She shrugged and walked over to Kyouya her voice low so not to carry, "The twins I assume."
He gave her slight nod, "Is there anything we need to do before we leave?" he asked the nurse.
"No, I will inform your teachers," she gave Kyouya speculative look her eyes drifting over him, "if you should need anything I am always here to help."
Haruhi's face twisted into a look of disgust and she maneuvered herself between the two. The woman's expression overly similar to that of the man she had met with Fuyumi. Kyouya gave her small grateful smile recognizing that Haruhi was attempting to shield him from the look the nurse had given him.
Upon entering Haruhi's apartment Kyouya didn't bother to do more than slip his shoes and jacket off before grabbing a spare blanket and stretching out on the couch.
Haruhi said nothing heading to her room. She allowed herself to fall forward onto her bed. The blankets uncharacteristically still twisted and bunched from the night before. Her head hurt and she admitted that if both her and Kyouya had been defeated by Hikaru and Kaoru they needed sleep. She flung an arm out setting her alarm for few hours from now. They still needed to go shopping for the ingredients for tonight's meal.
"Haruhi, why are you home from school, are you sick, hurt?" her father's concerned voice questioned as he poked his head into her room.
"To tired to think," she mumbled into her pillow sleep rapidly pulling her.
Ranka nodded his head shutting the door to her room as he crept down the short hall. He gave an amused snort spotting Kyouya lying on the couch already deeply asleep. He wasn't surprised to discover the two exhausted; they had been staying up later than him and rising much earlier to attend school. Kyouya had spent the a couple of nights on their couch and Ranka was considering purchasing a futon for him to use, at least then there wouldn't be a temptation to sleep elsewhere in the apartment. He shrugged and went to shower before work.
-XXXXXXX-
The dinner guests were kneeling around the table watching in wide-eyed silence the pre-dinner comedy being preformed in the kitchen.
Honey and Fuyumi had been watching open mouthed for several minutes when Mori reached across and gently pushed their chins upward, "It isn't good to sit like that. A bug could fly in."
The two looked at Mori then one another before what decorum they had previously possessed dissolved into undignified giggles.
Kyouya and Haruhi who had been bickering about how to prepare the meal stopped to give the two odd looks.
"What is so amusing?" Kyouya questioned his sister.
Fuyumi took in his offended expression and laughed harder.
Haruhi and Kyouya exchanged amused looks before continuing their argument regarding carrots.
"There is no need to add carrots," Kyouya argued reaching for the bag Haruhi was holding.
She gave him a mock glare pulling the bag out of his reach. She suspected the real reason he didn't want the carrots added was that he didn't like them and refused to admit it, "This is the recipe I used before and you liked it just fine with the carrots."
He matched her glare enjoying himself thoroughly. Their arguments while cooking or cleaning had become a matter of routine and they had slipped into the familiar pattern forgetting they were not alone, "There are already sweet potatoes and gobo if you add the carrots it will be too sweet."
Grinning Haruhi whispered, "I think we better stop now or those two are going to hurt themselves," looking at Honey and Fuyumi who were shaking with laughter.
"I'll make you a deal," she said speaking normally, "if you will admit the real reason you don't want the carrots I won't add them. If you can't do that then in they go."
"Fine, I don't like carrots in Tonjiru," Kyouya told her his voice sounding resigned.
Smiling Haruhi handed him the carrots.
Waiting until the others were occupied by their own conversation Kyouya leaned close to Haruhi, "Even in a mock argument you had to win," he murmured.
Her voice soft, "Of course."
"You do realize that there will be payback," he threatened quietly.
"Yeah, that's worked out so well for you in the past," Haruhi answered with a smirk.
"You won't hold the advantage forever," his voice a low caress.
Haruhi shivered, a faint flush forming on her neck as his words sparked a vivid memory of dancing, "We'll see," she said with false bravado.
They had come to an unspoken agreement neither mentioned what had occurred while they had danced in Kyouya's rooms neither did they discuss continuing to practicie. Haruhi had no idea what would happen when they danced again but she was aware enough to know she was looking forward to it.
The evening passed in pleasant conversation. Fuyumi and Haruhi poking fun at Kyouya, in turn Kyouya teased his sister and Haruhi, Mori surprisingly joined in coming to Kyouya's aid, and Honey teased everyone.
-XXXXXXX-
Tamaki looked over to the grinning Honey who was bouncing in his seat, "Thank you for helping me get out of there."
"It was fun," Honey told his younger friend, "I told you that your Grandmother wouldn't be able to deny an invitation from my family. Our families have several shared business contracts it would be impolitic."
Tamaki gave the smaller man a wide grin, "I just realized if I were not destined to take over the Souh Company with my dashing good looks I could have become a world famous spy."
Kaoru took a pillow from one of the couches scattered about the room and threw it at Tamaki's head, "Who ever heard of a famous spy."
"He would be the world famous bumbling spy," Hikaru told his brother.
"When will Kyouya and Haruhi arrive?" Mori asked.
Hikaru gave a catlike stretch, "They will wait until everyone else has arrived then make a grand entrance."
"Do you think this will work, Tama-chan?" Honey asked worriedly.
"How can it not," was his answer.
-XXXXXXX-
"Nervous," Kyouya asked Haruhi outside the closed doors.
"Would you believe me if I said no," she responded fiddling with the bracelet on her left wrist. Her dress was simple its purple color so dark to be almost black. A single teardrop pearl on a gold chain rested just below her throat, the square neck of dress giving a modest elegance to the garment, a matching silk shawl draped loosely across her arms to offset the thin straps of the dress. She turned to face him the bottom edge of the dress swishing lightly against her knees.
He gave her his customary smirk, "No," he said reaching down to separate her fingers from the delicate charms she was rubbing between her fingers. For the last ten minutes, he had watched as she pinched a charm between thumb and forefinger rubbing the back of the charm a few times with her thumb then dropping it and repeating the ritual with the next.
"If you continue to rub the charms like that you will wear away the portraits. They will be pleased to see you finally wearing it but if it is ruined because of nerves, it will hurt their feelings… especially that idiot. It would be best if we could avoid any of his dramatic displays of emotion today," he continued, settling her hand on his arm so he escort her into the room.
She took a deep breath slowly releasing the air, drawing herself up she looked at Kyouya, "I'm ready."
He gave her a nod not questioning her words; pushing open the door he guided her into the room.
"Kyo-chan, Haru-chan, you finally made it," Honey yelled across the room.
As planned, all eyes turned toward the two who had entered. There were a few minutes of tense silence broken by a very confused sounding Takeshi Kuze, "What's wrong with everyone?"
Kanan Mitsuyama gave him an exasperated look, "Don't think there is something a bit different about Haruhi-kun?"
His forehead creased in thought, "Um, not really."
Kanan looked at Haruhi and Kyouya who had not moved more than a few steps into the room then back to Kuze, "Are you sure you don't notice anything different like maybe Haruhi is a girl?"
Kuze began to squirm under her glare, "But wasn't she always a girl?" he asked.
At those words, bedlam broke out everyone speaking at once. Renge had run up and attempted to pull Haruhi from Kyouya's side squealing in what everyone assumed was delight but her words were so jumbled no one could understand anything she said. Kyouya had locked his hand over Haruhi's refusing to allow Renge to separate them. He felt the soft pressure of Haruhi's fingers tightening on his arm in thanks.
Honey with Kanazuki Reiko on his left and Mori his right hurried over to the three.
Reiko gave Haruhi a sympathetic smile, "Well," she said amused, "that has to be one of the more dramatic entrances."
Honey grinned up at Kyouya, "Come on lets have some cake."
Kanan was giving Kuze an astounded look, "You knew she was a girl," she cried incredulously.
Kuze was beginning to look panicked, "Well, yeah. I mean ummm… a… she looks like a girl and all."
Kanan flung an arm back pointing at Haruhi, "She has dressed like a boy up until now."
Kuze was sweating and tugged at the collar of his shirt, "I thought it was strange she was dressed like a boy but since she was friends with him," this said with a glare at Kyouya, "I figured it was some scheme of his."
Kasugazaki Kanako came to Kuze's rescue, "I knew she was girl also."
This led to a show of hands from people who had already been aware of Haruhi's gender. Kasanoda Ritsu without elaborating explained he found out by accident. Nekozawa Umehito said something about being unable to obscure the truth from his dark arts but the twins mocked him until he admitted to having seen Haruhi dressed as a girl. Kurakano Momoka said she didn't know before but was not surprised find out Haruhi was a girl since it explained some of the Host Club's more eccentric actions. She added that most of the female student body would be happy to hear she was a girl since it would do a lot to relieve them of the growing fear that the entire club was gay.
Haninozuka Yasuchika didn't comment directly but since he was yelling at his older brother for irresponsible behavior, it was assumed he had not known.
Morinozuka Satoshi was to busy yelling at Chika for being disrespectful to say anything one way or another.
Kazukiyo Soga had stood gaping at the whole scene until Momoka closed his mouth with an annoyed flick of her hand, "How did you know Kanako-kun?" he asked puzzled.
Kanako's face turned almost violet, "W… well … I … figured it our when we … ah … you know."
Soga and a few others gave her blank looks, "When we kissed," she said refusing to meet anyone's eye.
Hikaru and Kaoru stopped in their taunting of Umehito exchanging looks of shared delight rushing over to flank Kanako, "Sooo, there is a difference between the lips of a guy and a girl." Hikaru whispered close to the poor girl's ear.
"That would mean you have kissed both," Kaoru cooed in the other.
The unfortunate girl's eyes were beginning to look panicked until Tamaki came to her rescue beating both twins about their heads screaming at them about churlish behavior.
Kyouya and Haruhi in the mean time had worked their way across the room chatting about inconsequential things with Reiko, outwardly behaving as though this were an everyday occurrence.
Haruhi released Kyouya's arm choosing to stand on her own, "Excuse me," she said addressing the room.
The twins and Tamaki halted their antics straightening, serious once more. Honey silenced Chika with a firm look, Kazukiyo and Mori following suit.
Feeling the room's attention shift to her Haruhi bowed, "I'm sorry for deceiving you."
"Why did you?" Soga asked.
Tamaki walked forward to stand next to Haruhi, "It started as a misunderstanding. We assumed by the way she was dressed that Haruhi was a boy."
"I didn't care if people thought I was a boy or a girl so I didn't say anything," Haruhi explained.
Hikaru standing with his brother to one side of the room spoke next, "When everyone realized the truth we had already convinced her to join the Host Club."
Kaoru nodded, "We didn't want her to quit so…"
Kyouya moved so he was standing to next to Tamaki, "So we persuaded her to pretend to be a boy."
Honey addressed the room next, "We didn't think about the consequences of making Haruhi pretend to be a boy. We just wanted to keep our friend close to us."
Haruhi gave Honey a small smile, "Please don't blame them. I choose to pretend to be a boy. I am sorry for lying to all of you."
The normally silent Mori startled the guests by speaking up, "It was not any one person's fault. By the time we realized the position we had put ourselves in it was no longer simply a case of Haruhi showing up one day in a dress."
Kuze glared at Kyouya, "What is your scheme Ootori? What do you want from us?"
Kanan rested a hand on Kuze arm, "You want our help in ending the charade, correct?"
"Like I'd help him," Kuze snarled.
Renge let out a squeal of delight running up to Haruhi and swinging her around in an embrace that did more to threaten Haruhi's continued health than any prior event, "This is amazing. After having been forced to live a lie Haruhi is reaching out in desperate plea to her friends to save her from the deception that threatens to leave her a broken spirit."
Tamaki and Kyouya quickly separated the two. Renge's eyes were glazed over in ecstasy and she gave little notice to Tamaki who had a firm grip on her arms. Kyouya held one of Haruhi's arms as she bent partially over coughing in an effort to catch her breath.
"That's not exactly it," she wheezed.
Ritsu appeared at Haruhi's side taking her free hand kneeling down so he could look up into her eyes. "Whatever you need I will do," he declared passionately.
"How do you want our help? Since it is obvious that is why you asked us here," Jonochi Ayame questioned breaking her silence for the first time.
Tamaki gave Ayame a luminous smile earning him an eye roll and blush, "While we enjoy spending time with such lovely flowers," he said turning his smile upon the other women, "and good friends," he continued giving Ritsu and the others a toned down smile, "we do need your help in ending the illusion surrounding Haruhi's identity."
Honey having moved to stand next to Reiko, "Please help us convince the rest of the school to accept Haruhi as a girl. If they don't or there is too much of a commotion made she could be forced to leave Ouran."
"Seeing through illusions and dispelling them is something I have experience in doing," Umehito said, "I'll help since I had a hand in this by my silence."
The grinning twins gave him simultaneous slaps on the shoulders in appreciation.
Kanan with a glare at Kuze, "We'll help as well but I hope your plan consists of more than showing up at school this fall in a dress."
Kuze briefly looked as though he was going to protest but after significant look from Kanan he gave a reluctant nod of agreement.
Soga drew himself up this was something he was not afraid of, "What is the plan?"
Momoka gave Haruhi an encouraging smile.
"The plan is I will attend the parties held this summer with Kyouya. I am hoping that when the rumors start you will be willing to help others to view the situation in a positive light," Haruhi explained unaware that she was once more holding Kyouya's hand.
Satoshi gave Haruhi a gallant bow, "We would be honored to help a lady," he said elbowing Chika in the side.
Chika glared at his cousin, "Yeah, I'll help."
Honey clapped his hands, "Now that all the unpleasantness is over lets have cake."
-XXXXXXX-
Haruhi gave a tired sigh flopping onto the couch in Kyouya's rooms. Kyouya was absentmindedly browsing the cd's on his shelf while removing his tie and undoing the cuffs of his shirt.
"Anything you'd like to listen to?" he asked Haruhi.
"Doesn't matter as long as I don't need to move and it isn't loud," she answered rubbing her temples.
He gave a short nod the first notes of Moonlight Sonata following him as he sat down next to her, "You did good today," he told her resting his head on the back of the couch his eyes closing.
"Hmmm," she responded continuing to rub her forehead.
"We've done what we can," he said getting up to retrieve his laptop.
Haruhi cracked an eye open, "Are you seriously going to do work tonight."
"The European markets will be closing in a few hours. We can't afford to miss any opportunities," he said adjusting his glasses.
Haruhi gave heavy sigh, "Did you bring my computer?"
He pointed to the bag on the floor next to her. She suppressed a groan setting up the computer Hikaru had given her the day after the meeting at Kyouya's.
The soft click of computer keys the only conversation between the two for some hours.
A notice flashed onto Haruhi's screen informing her the LSE would be closing in fifteen minutes. Yawning she covered her mouth glancing at the clock on her computer it was almost 1:30 in the morning. Kyouya's gaze was fixated on his screen his fingers rapidly moving over the keys as he researched and followed the information displayed.
"Kyouya aren't you done?" she asked concerned.
"No, the American markets won't be closing for a little over three hours."
"We don't have any companies set up for purchasing from the NYSE," she said puzzled.
"Hmm, true. I have personal investments within that market," he explained resting his chin on his closed fist.
"Kyouya it's late it is time to get some sleep."
"I'm fine I do this frequently. If you'd like I can have Hotta or Aijima take you home."
"Kyouya, look at me," her voice firm.
He looked up blinking several times as his eyes attempted to focus on something other than the computer, "What is it?"
"Its time to sleep, we have been working non-stop for the last two weeks. It is time to take a break," she told him letting the weariness show in her voice.
"Haruhi, I will not allow myself to miss any opportunities because I am weak," he explained unaware of how his words sounded or what they revealed. He had turned back to his computer before he finished speaking losing himself in his work once more.
Haruhi closed her eyes, he pushed himself to go beyond perfect in his goal of meeting and exceeding the standards set by his father. She stood up walking to Kyouya who gave no indication of being aware she had moved. Gently she reached down resting her fingers on his wrist, "Come on we are going," she said softly.
He frowned confused, "What?"
"Call Hotta to take us to my apartment, Aijima had today off," she explained patiently.
"If you insist I can escort you home though I would think after all these months it wouldn't be necessary," he said adjusting his glasses.
"It is common courtesy," she scolded lightly, "However that is not my point. You are staying over."
Now Kyouya looked annoyed, "Why, would I?"
Haruhi tugged at his wrist pulling him upward, "Because if you don't I can't be sure you sleep. Tomorrow… no this evening we are attending the party for your brother-in-law's company if I have to do this the least you could do is be rested enough to be an enjoyable companion."
He glared at the young woman before him. She met his look without flinching. She wasn't going to back down he thought and this was not a fight worth having, "Alright lets go."
-XXXXXXX-
Haruhi gave him a sleepy smile as they walked into her apartment, "If you look in that closet I believe my father left you something," she told him with a lazy wave of her hand, "I'll see you in the morning."
Kyouya watched her disappear down the hall waiting until he heard the click of her door closing. The closet revealed a neatly folded futon and bedding. He shook his head chuckling, he wondered if he would ever fully understand the thoughts of these two.
-XXXXXXX-
Fuyumi arrived at Haruhi's door at exactly eleven o'clock. Ranka was still sleeping having stumbled into the apartment around five that morning. Kyouya had heard Haruhi moving around earlier and then the sound of the shower running. He had flung an arm across his eyes in an effort to gain a few more minutes of sleep. He knew from experience that Haruhi was immune to his demonic glare and after she had started laughing the last time, he gave it up. Therefore, the polite raping on the door elicited only a groan as he stumbled to answer the door expecting anyone but his sister on the other side.
"Oh," was Fuyumi's surprised squeak at her brother's face.
Kyouya started to growl at her until the full realization of how the situation appeared hit him. Instead, his face went through a curious metamorphous shifting from annoyed, to embarrassed, to defensive, back to embarrassed and settling somewhere between defensive and arrogant.
Fuyumi watched this all occur in a matter of seconds then started giggling before dissolving into tearful laughter.
Kyouya glared at her, "What are you doing here?"
Still giggling she wiped the tears from her eyes with the back of a hand, "I am taking Haruhi out to get ready for the party tonight."
Kyouya stepped back from the door allowing his sister to enter. She had been in the apartment previously when she had picked Haruhi up for shopping trips and lunch on the weekend and she was fairly certain that on those previous visits there had not been a bed in the living room. She glanced at Kyouya from the corner of her eye watching him squirm uncomfortably as he obviously tried to figure out what to do. She felt another fit of laughter threaten, "Well now what have you been up to," she said giving him a sly look.
"Nothing like you are insinuating," he told her coldly, folding his bedding before tucking everything back into the closet.
She was surprised to find that he had slept overnight at Haruhi's, but this was nothing compared to the shock of seeing him carefully stow his things away, or watching how familiarly he moved about the space.
"Would you like some tea," he asked going into the kitchen.
"Yes, thank you," she answered watching him unerringly move about the room.
After setting water to boil, he ignored his sister to head down the hall and knocking against the closed bathroom door. He heard the water shut off.
"Yes," Haruhi called through the door.
"Fuyumi is here," he told her neutrally.
"Sorry I didn't realize how late it was. Tell her I'll be right out."
Kyouya gave the door an icy glare. Apparently, she was expecting his sister and hadn't thought to say something to him before he found himself feeling like a child caught with their hand in the cookie jar.
He was still glaring when he placed the cup of tea in front of Fuyumi. Kneeling across from her, he drank his own in silence.
Fuyumi was used to her brother's moods and let him stew finding his annoyance and embarrassment amusing.
When Haruhi appeared some minutes later wearing a button-down blouse and jeans she found the siblings sitting in silence Fuyumi with a smile and Kyouya scowling.
"Did I miss something?" she asked.
Fuyumi gave her a sweet smile, "No dear. My darling little brother was just a bit surprised to see me and he tends to pout when ever something unexpected happens."
Haruhi gave a brief shrug, "True," she agreed.
"I am not pouting," he snapped at his sister, "and what do you mean true," he snapped at Haruhi.
Heading into the kitchen to get herself a cup of tea she answered over her shoulder, "Because even the great Ootori Kyouya is not above childish behavior from time to time."
Fuyumi gave an inelegant snort attempting to cover a laugh earning her a glare from her brother.
"The two you of are like some hellish combination of Tamaki and the twins," he mumbled.
Haruhi smiled patting him condescendingly on the head as she walked past to sit near Fuyumi.
"Where are we going," she asked.
Fuyumi smirked at Kyouya's frustrated expression, "I was going to take you to pick up your dress and then we have appointments at my favorite salon to have our hair and makeup done," she gave Haruhi a considering look, "Your debut this evening will be stunning." She turned to Kyouya, "I am glad you're here, I'll leave Haruhi in your care once we're done. I'll need to arrive early to oversee the final touches and greet guests"
Kyouya nodded, he and Haruhi had discussed their plans for the evening, they would leave from the Ootori mansion after his father and Akito had departed. Kyouya wanted their entrance to be separate from his father's. Keeping Haruhi from being included in one of his father's schemes was part of the delicate balance he was maintaining. He was not ashamed to be escorting the young woman the contrary being the case but he ran the risk of sparking his father's interest in her a thought that left him feeling ill.
Fuyumi frowned remembering something, "Have you practiced dancing?" she asked Haruhi.
Haruhi barely hid her blush at the question and was absurdly grateful when Kyouya saved her from answering.
"She has and there will be no difficulties," he told his sister pushing up his glasses.
Fuyumi tapped her bottom lip thoughtfully, "I wish we had time for you to dance with people other than my brother. Each person dances a little differently and you will find yourself needing to adjust accordingly."
"That won't be necessary," he informed her.
Haruhi shot him an annoyed look, "I am sure it will be fine after all I have danced with multiple partners during club activities I doubt this will be much different."
"Kyouya, have you told father that you will be attending with a partner this evening?" Fuyumi asked cautiously.
"Of course," he said surprised she would ask, "If I suddenly appeared with Haruhi there would be problems. I told him several days ago."
"How did he take it?" she asked curiously.
"He told me to do as I wished," Kyouya said frowning slightly as he remembered his father's words.
"I wonder what he has in mind," Fuyumi whispered to herself.
Haruhi looked at Kyouya, "I didn't know you spoke to your father."
He shrugged, "I spoke to both of our fathers. I told my father I would be escorting you to the parties during the break so he would not make other plans. I spoke to Ranka-san as to do other wise would be disrespectful."
"Well that explains all the teary eyed; My baby is growing up so fast, and Oh, mother soon she will leave us; comments he has been making. Really if your going to do something like that tell me ahead of time," she told him dryly.
"I thought you knew," Kyouya said taking their cups to the kitchen.
Fuyumi looked at her watch, "We don't have much time so we should be going."
Haruhi frowned looking at the clock, "I thought the party didn't start until seven its not quite noon."
Fuyumi stood laughing, "My dear you have no idea."
With those cryptic words, she led them from the apartment.
-XXXXXXX-
Fuyumi was right Haruhi had no idea. Kyouya had told them he had work to do at home and asked Fuyumi to drop Haruhi off when they were done. Haruhi had not given it much thought but as she stood for the final fitting of the dress trying to ignore the hungry growls of her stomach she suspected he had been lying and was seeking to save himself from this purgatory. Fuyumi whose own fitting had been completed the day before was sitting on a plush chair sipping tea and nibbling a cookie. Outwardly, she seemed oblivious to Haruhi's impatience but Haruhi had caught a familiar glint behind her smile and realized Fuyumi was having just a bit too much fun.
The woman who for the last hour had clucked over the dress and by default Haruhi gave a final grunt, "Shido-sama, I will have the dress ready by 4 o'clock. Will you be picking it up or shall I have it delivered?" she asked deferentially.
Fuyumi looked upward considering, "I will have it picked up."
She gave Fuyumi a small bow and dismissed Haruhi to change. Haruhi hurried into the changing room. When she emerged, Fuyumi was chatting with another customer. Haruhi was reaching for a cookie when Fuyumi called her name.
Sighing and with a look of longing toward the treats she followed the cheerful woman toward her next torment.
The salon was in reality a spa and she was grateful to find Fuyumi had arranged for them to have lunch prior to the next stage of their preparations.
Over lunch, she related what had occurred during the farewell party and couldn't help but laugh alongside Fuyumi while retelling the various reactions. Fuyumi found Renge's behavior of particular amusement recalling the commotion the girl had caused the prior year for Kyouya.
"Haruhi you said you had a comb you planned to wear this evening," Fuyumi asked, "may I see it?"
In answer she reached into her purse pulling out an object wrapped in a linen handkerchief, "My father gave it to me the other day. He said it belonged to my mother."
Fuyumi unwrapped the cloth and gave her a tender smile, "It's lovely," she said handing it back.
Haruhi studied the small comb, made from pewter the soft metal was formed into the shape a cherry blossom, traces of gold accentuating the design. She knew the comb had been one of those small treasures her father had kept in cherished remembrance of her mother that he gave it to her meant as much as the memento itself, "Thank you. Not just for the complement. Thank you for doing all of this," she said softly not sure how to properly express herself.
"Don't be silly, dear," Fuyumi answered, "I told you I always wanted a little sister and Kyouya refused to wear a dress after his forth birthday so I have a lot of years to make up for."
Haruhi grinned at the image of a young Kyouya in a dress.
Fuyumi's answering smile was delighted, "I have pictures."
Haruhi shook her head, "He must really love you."
"I have an infectious charm that just makes people want to give in to me," Fuyumi told her with wink.
Haruhi laughed but privately she thought Fuyumi was more manipulative than Kyouya could ever hope to be.
-XXXXXXX-
A young maid had escorted Haruhi to Kyouya's rooms and remained hovering while she read the hastily written note Kyouya had left explaining that he would be with her once he finished getting ready, that her outfit had been laid out in his room and the maid had been instructed to assist her.
Haruhi gave a silent sigh and set the note down, "Will you help me do up the back of the dress," she asked politely.
"I will assist you in any way you require, Fujioka-sama," the young woman answered with a shallow bow.
Haruhi's eyes widened at the honorific but she made no comment it was not the first time she had been addressed as such by the Ootori servants though she still found it surprising.
Haruhi headed upstairs to Kyouya's room stopping when she noticed the maid following, "Umm, please wait here. I'll call you when I need help," she told her.
The young woman gave a small nod and returned to wait at the base of the steps.
Once in Kyouya's room Haruhi rolled her eyes upward and sat down on the edge of the bed allowing herself a few minutes of silence. She looked to her right where her dress had been carefully laid. She had not taken the time to really admire the dress she had picked from the many Fuyumi had shown her the week before. Tentatively she ran her fingertips over the fabric made from silk shantung. It felt cool, smooth, yet when she closed her eyes, she could feel the variances in the threads giving it a texture closer to that of the touch of a hand than the feel of water frequently attributed to silk. Its silvery color muted instead of a metallic shine.
She undressed stowing her clothes in her bag taking the dress in her arms she stepped into pulling it upward. With one hand holding it in place, she opened the door the call the maid to help her finish dressing.
The young woman efficiently slipped each of the many hooks that would hold the sleeveless dress in place into the loops, the result was the fabric blended together to appear seamless, fitted to her figure. Haruhi remained still as she felt her draw the wrapped bodice around her waist and fasten it so two ribbons of cloth hung like a train nearly the full length of the skirt.
The dress secured Haruhi slipped her feet into her shoes, the straps dyed to match the dress the heels low enough to avoid discomfort. She turned and faced the maid the hem of the skirt ending just below her knees, "How do I look?" she asked.
The young woman seemed taken aback to asked her opinion, "You are very pretty, Fujioka-sama."
"Thank you for your help. Is Kyouya waiting?"
"You are welcome and he had not arrived before I came to assist you," she answered politely.
Haruhi gave a nod, "I should head down to wait then."
"Do you require anything else?"
"Umm, sorry, no, you can go if you need to," Haruhi said not comfortable dismissing the servants. She had felt pretentious on the few occasions she had been in the position to do so.
-XXXXXXX-
Kyouya hesitated outside his room remembering how Haruhi had looked the prior evening wondering if he was a masochist.
Walking into his room his eyes immediately searching for the girl who had come to dominate so many of his thoughts, finding her standing with her back to the door looking at the books lining one of his shelves.
She turned to him with a smile. Her short hair had been pulled back in such a way to give the illusion that it may tumble loose from the comb at any moment, wavy tendrils framing her face. Her lips and checks given only the lightest touches of color highlighting the darker shades applied to her eyes drawing attention to their warm depths.
"Yeah, I'm a masochist," he mumbled to himself.
"What did you say?" Haruhi asked her brows creasing together.
"Nothing, you are …." He hesitated over the words he wanted to say, but regardless of anything he may have done, he had never lied to Haruhi, "You are beautiful. Are you comfortable?"
She smiled, "Fuyumi and I spent an entire afternoon trying on different dresses, and this was the one I picked. She asked my opinion on everything and deferred to my wishes so yes I am comfortable. I don't feel like a child dressed up against their will if that is what you are asking."
"It is," he said walking up to her.
Slowly he reached out to take her hand and place it on his arm as he had several times before. She felt a faint tremor in his touch and wondered at the cause, "Are you ok?"
Kyouya's expression turned self-mocking, "Yes, I just realized how little I understood anything."
She frowned, "You don't sound ok."
He leaned down until his eyes were level with hers, so close their breath mingled with his words, "I am happy and I would like us to enjoy this night. You are the one who said we needed a break."
She swallowed and closed her eyes taking a slow breath the scent that was uniquely Kyouya's filling her senses, "Then we should be going. Fuyumi will be furious if we are late."
He gave a low chuckle leading her from the room.
-XXXXXXX-
"Congratulations, it was quite a triumph for your company to oversee this project, then to negotiate and maintain the cooperation of so many competing businesses to see it through to its completion is a testament to your diplomatic skills," Kyouya told his brother-in-law.
Ren smiled, "Kyouya always so formal," he turned to Haruhi, "You must be Fujioka Haruhi about whom I have been hearing so much from my wife these past few weeks."
Haruhi gave him a polite smile, "I am. Thank you for inviting me this evening."
Ren's smile grew, "I should be thanking you if half the stories Fuyumi has told me are true you are a wonderfully humanizing influence on this young man."
Kyouya growled half-heartedly, "You are as bad as Fuyumi."
Fuyumi who had been smirking through the exchange lightly hit Kyouya and her husband on the head, "Play nice you two."
The two turned similar smiles of feigned innocence to her and Haruhi was vividly reminded of the twins.
Fuyumi gave a short trill of laughter before shooing Kyouya and Haruhi away so they could greet their other guests.
Kyouya guided Haruhi through the room stopping occasionally to greet guests or they were halted to be greeted. They met a few Ouran students with their families and as predicted, nothing was openly said regarding Haruhi's appearance. She noticed Soga and Momoka circulating the room drawing some of their classmates' aside for whispered conversations. The twins had ambushed them earlier and Haruhi had braced herself for an onslaught that never came. Rather than their normal teasing, they had given her shallow bows each bestowing a polite kiss on her check. She had been left feeling flustered by their compliments and actions. The last time she had spotted them they appeared to be flirting outrageously with an older matron who laughingly scolded them. At Kyouya's whispered words, she turned to see Tamaki arrive with his father. Shortly after arriving, he casually passed near them and Haruhi heard his low voiced compliment on her appearance and acknowledgment of Kyouya.
Taking the glass of wine Kyouya proffered, "There are more people from school here than I expected," she observed.
"You shouldn't be surprised; the number companies at this level are limited. Ouran is the grooming ground for the majority of Japan's elite families so we will be seeing many of the same faces regardless of the person who is hosting the party. Through intricacies of business contracts many of the families whose children attend Ouran have some relation to one another. If this were not the case our plan to slowly reveal your identity would be pointless," he answered taking a drink of his wine.
Haruhi nodded taking a sip from her glass. Her eyes widened a pleased smile on her face. The initial taste had been a bit sour and tart however it was unexpectedly replaced by a sweet fruity flavor.
"It appears you like this wine," he stated.
"It is not what I expected but not unpleasant."
"Be careful it is stronger than you might think. The first time I had wine at a party I came close to embarrassing myself," he told her.
"What happened?" she asked curiously taking a second drink.
"The wife of one of my father's business associates noticed I had become inebriated and helped me to leave the room before anyone else became aware of the situation," he answered turning to scan the room.
Haruhi frowned she thought she had seen an unhappy shadow cross his features, "How old were you?"
Setting his glass down he took hers as well placing them on a tray carried by one of the circulating servants, "Twelve. Would you like to dance?"
"Yes," she answered allowing him to change the subject.
Hikaru found Tamaki alone resting his arms on the rail of a balcony overlooking the room.
He followed Tamaki's gaze, he was watching Kyouya and Haruhi move across the dance floor. They look good together Hikaru thought.
With a nudge of his arm, he handed Tamaki an open bottle of wine he had purloined. Tamaki took a drink directly from the bottle and handed it back.
Hikaru took his own drink before breaking the silence, "In terms of our world those two will rule over all of us."
Tamaki nodded, "True, though Kyouya would have regardless at least with her he will be a benevolent monarch."
Giving a short laugh, he took drink and handed the bottle back to Tamaki, "We never really stood a chance."
Tamaki didn't say anything and for several minutes they watched the scene below passing the bottle back and forth, "Its better this way," Tamaki said finally.
"Yeah," slinging his arm around Tamaki's shoulders he pulled him from the balcony, "Let's find Kaoru and get out of here. We'll drink until the night is full on pink elephants."
Laughing Tamaki followed him in search of the missing brother.
The party was finally coming to an end; Kyouya had told her they could say their goodbyes shortly. Carefully drying her hands Haruhi walked out of the bathroom enjoying the quiet offered by the empty hall. She slowly made her way back toward the party pausing frequently to study the artwork displayed on the walls.
She her eyes were focused on a mural as she was walking when she collided with a solid presence. Strong hands lightly catching her shoulders to prevent her fall.
"I'm sorry," she apologized, noticing the scent of alcohol mixed with an expensive men's cologne.
"No, the fault is mine," a familiar sounding voice answered, "Fujioka Haruhi, correct."
Haruhi looked up as she attempted to step back quickly hiding her irritation upon recognizing the man before her, "Yes, I met you while I was dinning with Fuyumi-kun," she answered feeling a flash of concern when he didn't remove his hands from her shoulders instead sliding them down to rest on her upper arms, "Excuse me I should be going I am keeping people waiting."
"Edwards Simon," he told her ignoring her polite attempt to end their conversation, "You are one of the most lovely flowers I have seen in many years," his voice lower, seductive despite the slight slur.
No longer caring if she was rude Haruhi began to jerk free at the same time he pulled her to him, his lips pressing against hers.
Shocked she froze then instinct took over, she reached out a hand to wrapping her fingers around the top edge of his pants, her fingers slipping inside. She felt the slight stiffing of his muscles and the increased pressure of his mouth on hers. In response, her hand gripping his pants jerked him toward her while with all the strength of her fury she drove the heel of her free hand into his shoulder. The conflicting forces drove Simon's mouth from her knocking him to the floor.
Having grown concerned at her delay in returning Kyouya appeared at the end of the hall in time to witness Simon's fall to the ground. His face becoming cold he strode forward noting the fallen man's immediate apology to Haruhi.
"Is everything alright?" he asked Haruhi his voice filled with barley-controlled anger.
Haruhi schooled her features into something benign, "Yes, there was just a small misunderstanding," she told Kyouya taking his arm.
Kyouya's eyes narrowed as he recalled everything he knew about the man before him. He could easily guess what had occurred but he allowed Haruhi to lead him from the hall. By the time, they rejoined the party Haruhi appeared to have dismissed the incident and Kyouya asked no further questions instead keeping Haruhi close to him the remainder of the evening.
-XXXXXXX-
Simon Edwards was sitting at his desk his head clutched between his hands, 'Damn,' he thought it had been years since he had experienced a hangover of this magnitude.
The shrill ring of the phone caused him to wince, "Hello," he groaned into the phone to miserable to care how he sounded, listening to the voice on the other end for a few minutes.
"Repeat that," he shouted, rising from his chair all concern over a hangover forgotten.
"Sir, Customs is refusing to allow Esmeralda's Dawn to unload. They say there are discrepancies with the paperwork. They are threatening to hold it in dock until it has been inspected. If they make good on their threat it could be a week before we can release the cargo for shipment."
"I am aware of the consequences. Find out what the hell happened. I am on my way to clear this up. If this is due to your negligence I will make up the profits from you pay," Simon snarled.
"I understand sir."
He slammed the phone down and stormed from his office.
The lobby was nearly devoid of people as he exited the elevator.
"Edwards-san, what a pleasure to run into you again," a voice called.
Simon turned to see a dark haired young man approach, the light glinting off his glasses. Simon's glare increased, where had he seen this boy before … abruptly the memory forced its way into his consciousness. 'No,' he thought in denial, 'this kid couldn't possibly be connected to the issues with the ship.' However, he waited for the boy and his companion to approach.
"Ootori Kyouya isn't it," Simon said, "I am acquainted with Shido Ren and your sister."
"Indeed, I will be sure to tell them we met when I speak to them next," Kyouya replied coolly.
"Pardon the question but shouldn't you be in school," Simon's voice barely containing his impatience. He did not have time for this.
"No, I am currently on break. I had an issue that needed cleared up," Kyouya answered in the same cool tones as before.
Simon's stomach clenched and he had to resist the urge to curse vehemently, "Nothing serious I hope."
"No, it was merely a small misunderstanding. I wished to ensure it was resolved personally before it became more serious."
Simon ground his teeth together, "You seem to be a capable young man I am sure you were able to clear it up."
"I hope you are right," Kyouya answered, "but I am keeping you from your business. Have a good afternoon," with a small nod of his head Kyouya walked away followed by his silent companion.
Simon rushed to the pier where his ship was docked unsurprised to find all previous issues had mysteriously resolved themselves while he was en-route.
That evening a tumbler of an amber colored liquid in his hand Simon stared at the lights of the city. He had met only one other person who wielded their power so ruthlessly and effectively. 'It will be interesting to see what will happen when they meet,' he thought as he emptied his glass.
Author's Notes:
Skip to the end to find out the details of a contest related to this story.
Sorry everyone for the delay in this chapter coming out, but flunking out of college would be very bad so I figured I should concentrate on my classes for a while. Don't worry I'm really not that poor of a student.
Ok I am going to explain something's that were mentioned in this chapter.
The time frame this story is based on is the 2010 calendar and began in April, the start of a new school year in Japan. As of the last scene with Simon, it is now July 27th (Simon was working even though it was Sunday). Summer break began on July 20th (I hope that is the correct date), the Farewell i.e. Let's enlist other people's help Party was held on Friday July 23rd, the party for Ren's company occurred on the 24th.
When Simon asked Kyouya if he should be in school, Simon knew that there was not school on Sundays but he was being rude.
Keeping those dates in mind Kyouya and Haruhi have spent almost four months in nearly constant company with one another. Ok, not an extremely important detail over all, just something I noticed while figuring out all the dates.
Yes, the dates are important because if you remember they have until the Souh Company's annual board meeting on September 13th to have their plan for Tamaki becoming the Souh heir completed.
The time difference between regions are as follows:
A) London is nine hours behind Tokyo (Ouran is located in Bunkyo one of the 23 special wards of Tokyo. Yeah, Google). The LSE (London Stock Exchange) opens at 8am and closes at 4:30pm. Therefore, in Tokyo it would be 5pm when the LSE opens and 1:30am when it closes.
B) New York is thirteen hours behind Tokyo from March through November and fourteen hours behind the rest of the year (Japan does not have daylight savings). The NYSE (New York Stock Exchange) opens at 9:30am EST and closes at 4pm EST. In Tokyo, it would be 10:30pm or 11:30pm depending on the time of year when the NYSE opens and 5am or 6am when it closes.
C) The Nikkei 225 index (one of indices used to track the Tokyo Stock Exchange) opens at 9am until 11am when it closes briefly and reopens at 12:30pm and closes for the day at 3pm
I chose the LSE and NYSE for no reason other than I am more familiar with them than any of the others. Not that that knowledge will play a big part in this story.
I don't know if anyone will notice this but when Simon was first introduced I made a mistake and had typed his last name as Edward, it is Edwards. His full name is Simon Nicholas Edwards.
Amv's of note for this chapter: "Dengeki Daisy – You and I" by schoolgirlxanime
"Fai's Vampire Heart" by sadied
Ok, here are the details on the contest I mentioned earlier. The prize is that the winner will get is to have any story related question(s) answered or something else within reason.
Please submit via the reviews or PM a character name. Here is the pertinent information for the character he is American of European descent (yes, I am aware that there are large number of ethnic groups of European descent but I will not narrow it any further), because it can make a difference this person in their late twenties, and it should be a strong name. You can submit only a first name or both a first name and a surname. If you had a specific reason for choosing a name please include the reason but it's not required.
That's it for now. Please review…. Positive and negative comments are welcome I just want to know what people think while reading this.
A huge congratulations to Unknown Male Voice for making the Dean's List (again) for the 2009 school year and no I still won't pay you for the tutoring ;)
Goodnight… er… rather good-morning. Damn, it's almost 4am.