A/N: It's with mixed emotions that I announce that this is officially the final chapter for The Secretary. There will be an epilogue following this, and maaaybe an extra treat after that. So, yes… it is ending at last. I'll save my sob story for the epilogue, because you don't need to read that just yet.

Thank you for your support so far, and I hope you'll like where your favorite secretary and boss end up! (spoiler alert: in bed)

Chapter 19: His Everything, Not His Secretary

Two months later, Yuuki finally graduated from university. The weeks leading up to her graduation had been stressful with all her exams and moving in with Kaname, but somehow it'd all worked out. Moving in wasn't that hard since all her stuff was almost permanently at his place, but it was still a big step for the two. Shizuka had handed over all the material, and Kou was being treated.

With the threat of Shizuka gone, Yuuki was free to focus on her exams. Late nights were spent at his place as she worked on her assignments and studied. More than often, Kaname would find her face planted on the table among scattered notes as she slumbered away, exhaustion having caught up with her. He'd carry her to their bedroom and tuck her in, being careful to make sure that when she woke up in the morning she wouldn't feel disoriented by leaving a note. He supported her quietly and left her alone to work for the most of the time, despite his ever-present need to be with her.

Time passed quickly, and soon Yuuki had completed every exam and officially graduated. He attended the ceremony along with Kaien, Juuri, Haruka, Yori and Hanabusa, smiling proudly as he watched the principal hand over her diploma.

To celebrate the occasion, Kaname decided to host a small party for her at his mansion. Everyone was here; her father, his parents, Yori and Hanabusa, Ichijou, Sara, and some other acquaintances of both him and Yuuki.

Everyone was here except for the star of the evening.

"Come on, Yuuki… pick up," he mumbled as the phone next to his ear beeped. This was his fifth time calling her. He knew she would be late since she was supposed to attend a graduation party with her class, but as the guests gathered in the livingroom and time went on, he grew nervous.

The slam of the front door alerted him. Quickly he ended the call and jogged over to the entrance, finding her by the door.

"There you are…" He sighed in relief.

She was currently bent over as she tried taking off her shoes, but at the sound of his voice her head snapped up, her hair billowing around her. She straightened and stumbled slightly. She was wearing a tight red dress that revealed her shoulders and décolleté, with some fabric on her arms.

Combined with her tousled hair and light make-up, she made his mouth water. She simply looked breath taking.

And…

"Oh no…" He whispered, registering the lost look in her eyes.

Drunk.

"You're drunk again, aren't you?" He whispered quietly, watching as she stretched a hand up and grinned.

"Haaaaaaaaaaai!"

Kaname pinched the bridge of his nose, his stress levels increasing rapidly. "I told you not to drink too much… everyone is here, Yuuki! They're waiting for you!"

"Reeeally?" Her eyes sparkled as she stumbled forward. "Let's go say hiiii!"

He grabbed her arms as she was about to stumble past him. "Absolutely not. This is a big night for you and everyone in that room, and I'm not letting you walk out there all drunk."

Her eyes darkened as she swayed, biting her lips. "Oooohh… where are you taking me? If you know what I mean…" She tried winking, though it came more out like a spasm.

He couldn't help but laugh as he began steering her discreetly out of the room. "Is this the part where you begin molesting me again?"

"Maaaaaybe," she giggled. "You're so sexy and toned and… it's been a while," she slurred, halting and turning around, her fingers fumbling with the buttons of his shirt. "Because of my studies… I had to neglect you. So I think you should… punish me."

He swallowed audibly, looking around frantically. She was right. She had been denying him the pleasure of her body the past few weeks. Sure, she'd allowed him to help her stress down a few times, but as she grew more frantic and stressed out, she'd shut him out completely.

And now she was drunk, wearing a ridiculously sexy dress, and asking him to punish her.

If I thought this night would be a big challenge before…

"All right," he grabbed her arms and shoved her into the bathroom, locking the door.

"Oooohh-! Yes, yes! You shexy bastard!" Yuuki yelled, jumping up on the counter clumsily. "C'mere," she slurred, beckoning him with her finger.

"No," he said, eyeing her legs as she crossed them, gulping as he trailed up to the end of her dress. "I mean… yes, god damn it, yes… No! No, no! Stop tempting me!"

He'd survived three years of sexual frustration when he was her boss. Three long and torturous years that pushed his self-control to its limits constantly.

He could get through this.

She licked her lips as she eyed him, desire swirling in her eyes. She reached behind herself and unzipped her dress a few inches, the sound of the zipper making his eyes widen. He watched in the reflection of the mirror behind her as the dress unveiled her back and the hook of her red bra, gulping at the thought of the entire dress coming undone.

I can't get through this. I can't get through this. Goodness, I can't.

"Come on, you big, bad CEO," Yuuki taunted, giggling at his lost expression.

"You seem awfully coherent all of a sudden…" He narrowed his eyes on her gleeful expression.

"Mmh, maybe because I only had one glass of wine?" She pursed her lips.

His mouth opened in horror. All this time she'd been playing him!?

Yuuki laughed out loud. "Gotcha! Oh, haha, you should see your face!"

He sighed in relief, his nerves calming as he took in the information.

"You think I'd show up drunk again when we have guests? Nuh uh!" She shook her head. "My college days are over. I'm staying sober for the rest of my life, so don't you worry."

Kaname breathed another sigh of relief, unable to properly answer her as his mind plotted and calculated.

"Hey…" Yuuki trailed off, reaching out and pulling him by his tie so he ended up directly in front of her. She uncrossed her legs so he could stand in between them, reaching up with her hand to caress his cheek. "Is everything all right? You seem awfully stressed out for a simple dinner…"

"Tonight's special," he said, "since… it's your graduation party. I wanted everything to be perfect for you. Also, I wanted you to be able to remember it," he said sternly, earning a giggle from her.

"I'm sorry," she grinned, "I couldn't help it. It was the perfect opportunity so I had to grab it."

"Yeah, yeah…" he sighed tiredly.

She pouted. "Awh, don't be like that," she reached up and kissed him softly. "I'm sure what you've planned will be perfect. I'm happy as long as I get to spend time with you. I missed you in the past weeks, even if I saw you everyday… I got so caught up in my exams."

He brushed her cheek tenderly. "That's all right, Yuuki. All your hard work paid off in the end. Besides, I plan on having you make up for all those times you neglected me when I was in need. Like your fake drunk-self suggested, I think punishment is in place…" He trailed off.

She licked her lips and reached up to his lips, grabbing his right hand and placing it at her back where her dress was unzipped. "Mmh, how about we start right now?" She trailed off huskily as she bit his lower lip.

He wanted to die on the spot.

He groaned into their kiss, his hands stroking the soft skin of her back that was left exposed from her dress opening. She urged him on, leaning into his touch as she kissed him deeply, her tongue massaging his. It was all too much; her scent, her touch, her body… he was drowning in desire on the spot, his willpower slipping.

"Mmh, no…" He said in-between kisses. "We have guests, Yuuki. We can't–"

"Since when did that ever stop you?" She whined, continuing kissing down his neck. "Don't you remember that time at the prime minister's gala when we snuck off and did–"

"I do remember that mind-blowing incident, yes," he said, retracting from her, "and I plan on re-enacting it with you soon enough, but right now, Horny Yuuki, we need to calm down. Tonight is a big night."

She pouted. "But I want you…"

He groaned. "Don't say that. You know I can't resist…"

"Then don't…" She trailed off, reaching for his belt-buckle.

He stopped her hands. "Please, Yuuki. Tonight is important. This… will come later, I promise."

She huffed and removed her hands, reaching behind herself to zip her dress. "It's not that important," she blew her hair out of her face in annoyance, "I've already graduated. And therefore I should be allowed to celebrate the way I want to."

As if I don't want to celebrate that way either. But you don't understand how important this night is to me…

"After the guests leave, I'll be all yours," he promised, kissing the top of her head after she'd jumped down from the counter.

"Whatever," she huffed, straightening her dress.

He grabbed her arm and spun her around, planting a kiss on her lips as he dipped her down. She gasped by the sudden movement, narrowing her eyes as he grinned at her.

"I love you," he said.

"Whatever," she hissed, escaping his embrace as she straightened.

She unlocked the door and stepped outside, waiting as Kaname came after her.

"And where did the two of you go?" Juuri said, her eyes narrowing on the couple. Her eyes lit up as she smiled brightly. "Were you making a baby for me?"

Yuuki gasped, blushing madly at the suggestion. Kaname clenched her hand and brought it up to his mouth and kissed it. "All in due time, Mother. She just graduated, so let's focus on that for the time being, yes?"

Juuri huffed as she pouted. "Fine. But now that she's out of school, and the two of you are living together, it's time to start talking about the fu–"

"It's time to enjoy the delicious food and drinks we've prepared for the evening," Kaname said, releasing Yuuki's hand and steering Juuri towards the dinner-table where everyone were gathered.

It didn't take much to distract Juuri from her baby talk as she spotted Haruka. "Haruukaaaa!" She squealed, running over to him and hugging him tightly. "I missed you!"

"That was quick," Yuuki commented as Kaname grabbed her hand, watching Haruka and Juuri embrace each other passionately. "I thought they arrived together…?"

"They did," Kaname quipped.

"But she's acting like she hasn't seen him in days…?"

"She always does that. Haven't you noticed yet? They can't stand being apart for more than 10 minutes. She literally only went to the bathroom."

Yuuki giggled and leaned into him. "They're so sweet."

"More like annoying," he said, launching an arm around her shoulder and guiding her to the table and pulling out her seat.

"Ugh, finally!" Hanabusa said. "What took you so long? I was starting to think Yuuki was shitfaced again like the last time."

When Kaien's eyebrows rose, Yuuki shot him a quick look. "Uhh, what? I would never do that, uh huh…"

"Never, huh? I seem to remember you molesting Kaname and talking about goldfish– auch!" Hanabusa's cheeks turned red as he turned quickly towards Yori who'd stomped on his foot. The warning look in her eyes made him shut up immediately.

"Molest Kaname, you say?" Juuri inquired, her eyes narrowing on the two.

Yuuki took a big gulp of her water as she kept her eyes on the table, her cheeks heating up.

"Listen, Yuuki, my dearest daughter-in-law," Juuri said, "there's absolutely nothing wrong with you molesting my son. Molest away. His body is yours," she waved her hands in the air. "Right, Kaname?"

Kaname could only sigh in response. His mother's babyfever was getting out of hand.

"So, if you want all of us to leave right now so you two can celebrate," she made a jerking motion with her hands, "that's totally fine. I'll get everyone out in two sec-"

"Juuri, dear," Haruka cooed, slapping a hand over Juuri's mouth. "Let's not do this tonight, hm? Tonight we're celebrating Yuuki graduating, so let's focus on that."

Juuri mumbled frantically against his hand, her voice coming out as strange sounds.

Haruka nodded in understanding. "I understand, dear, but please be patient." He released his hand from her mouth slowly, watching as she huffed.

"Ohh, you look reeeally cute right now!" He gushed.

Juuri winked at him, which only made Haruka swoon further. Kaname rolled his eyes at the sight of his strange parents, leaning over to whisper in Yuuki's ear.

"Promise me we won't end up like that."

Yuuki gasped. "What? But they're adorable!"

"They're annoying," Kaname hissed.

"Then how do you wanna end up? Angry and barely speaking to each other because of years of bitterness stemming from our non-existent sex-life?"

Kaname quieted next to her as his eyes widened. "No…"

"Exactly! So stop being so cynical and bitter and… and embrace your inner romantic!"

"I'll get started on that as soon as possible, Yuuki," he said softly, brushing her cheek as he gazed into his eyes. She was caught by his eyes and how they seemed to shine with an unusual glint. The more she thought of it, the weirder he seemed that night. First his rejection of her suggestion to catch up in the bathroom, then the odd looks and commentary… what was he hiding?

She didn't get to question him before he turned away and cleared his voice. "Everyone, I've invited you here today to celebrate Yuuki's graduation. Feel free to eat up and enjoy yourselves."

And with that, everyone began to eat while light chatter flowed around the table. Hanabusa kept boasting about his progress at work, which only made Kaname roll his eyes quietly. Yori told everyone about her experiences as a journalist, relaying the story of how Kageyama almost got fired because he wrote an article about goldfishes and bears trying to take over the world. The editor had yelled at him in front of the entire staff while he clumsily tried to explain the story, claiming that he'd been hacked. The editor – red with rage – had refused to hear him out and sent him home for the day without pay as punishment for his errors.

As everyone laughed and wiped their tears, Yuuki had leaned over and whispered in Kaname's ear that it was actually she who had written the article, as a way of getting back at Kasumi for writing about her. Uncharacteristically, he'd thrown his head back and laughed loudly, startling her and everyone around them. He'd wiped a single tear, placing his hand on her thigh.

"I just have a really hilarious, witty, and insanely creative girlfriend, that's all," he explained, still grinning. "Bears and goldfishes…"

"Speaking of bears… I saw our nr. 1 bear-hater is dating his agent?" Hanabusa said, raising his eyebrows.

"Zero and Maria? Yeah," Yuuki chuckled, taking a sip of her wine. "It was a small price to pay for getting Maria to help me, but… I'm pretty great at matchmaking, if I do say so myself."

"I heard he's taking her on a bear-hunting trip in the mountains," Kaname said, turning towards Yuuki. "Sounds romantic. Should I take you on a trip as well?"

Yuuki shook her head furiously. "Hell no."

"Zero Kiryuu?" Juuri chirped. Yuuki nodded in response.

"As in your ex-boyfriend? As in the guy you tried to date while you still had feelings for Kaname who, at the time, was head over heels for you? As in the guy that could have potentially given you chlamydia?"

"T-that was never a possibility and…" Yuuki sunk in her seat. "We all make mistakes…"

"Certainly!" Juuri said, giving Yuuki a pointed look. "But, luckily we come to our senses and confess our love to the rich, super-handsome, intelligent and sophisticated CEO that's been in love with you since the moment he met you."

Yuuki blushed and smiled, "Yes, thank goodness." She turned towards Kaname and kissed his cheek, a warm look in her eyes as he smiled at her. "We all make mistakes. And fix them."

"And have lots of babies afterwards to make up for the heartache you caused said CEO's mother for your blindness," Juuri cut in. "In fact, babies as soon as possibl–"

"Yeah, yeah," Yuuki waved her hand, "I told you we'll get to that part one day. Don't worry. I'm not leaving Kaname's side anytime soon, if not ever."

"I certainly hope so," Kaname quipped, tapping her nose before giving her a kiss.

"Ugh! I hope he doesn't give Maria chlamydia as well," Juuri's face scrunched in disgust as she shook her head. "Kids these days!"

"Kiryuu has chlamydia!?" Hanabusa yelled, spitting out his drink.

"It was never confirmed," Yori muttered, eyeing Yuuki. "But we do have a credible source in the room with us now, so…"

Yuuki blushed furiously as all eyes turned on her. "L-like I said, that was never a p-possibility…"

"Meaning…?" Yori inquired.

Kaname watched like a hawk as Yuuki squirmed in her seat. Though it was a long time ago, he could still remember the jealousy he'd felt over Zero and Yuuki dating while she was his secretary. The ever-present hatred that arose whenever Zero was mentioned burned in his veins as he anxiously awaited Yuuki's answer.

Of course, they'd been dating so… it would be normal to… but… I can't stand the thought of her with another man. And with him, of all people! That brat of a manchild! Tattoed imbec-

"Why is everyone always putting me on the spot!?" Yuuki groaned. "Kaname dated Shizuka Hio! Shizuka 'psycho blooming princess' Hio! Why isn't anyone giving him a hard time!?"

"Oh, dear, I assure you we gave him a hard time when he was dating that virus," Juuri said, nearly slicing Kaname in half with her sharp stare.

Kaname gulped, remembering the shitstorm that went down while he'd dated Shizuka. Juuri had certainly not approved of her, and while Haruka hadn't been as vocal about his displeasure as Juuri, it was still apparent that he wasn't all too pleased with his choice. Of course, at the time, he'd been a little bit too rebellious and blinded by love to listen to his parents. The relationship had put a strain on his relationship with his parents, which had been hard to bear since he'd always been close to them. When Shizuka broke his heart, Juuri couldn't resist telling him that she'd "told him so" while she stroked his back and made sure he ate.

"Didn't we all agree that we all make mistakes?" Kaname quipped, clearing his throat. "Mine came back to bite me in the ass, but… her betrayal led me to the love of my life, so I'm not too bothered."

"Awh, honey," Yuuki said, stroking his cheek.

He clenched her hand, his smile a tad too wide. "You're not off the hook," he warned.

Yuuki swore under her breath. "Fine! Nothing happened! I only let him kiss me and… and we never got around to date properly because my boss was stalking me! Happy!?"

"Elated," Juuri quipped, rubbing her hands together. "Ah, you saved yourself for Kaname!" She exclaimed, earning another heavy blush from Yuuki. "How romantic!"

Kaname breathed a quiet sigh of relief next to Yuuki. Knowing that the silverette never made it past second base made him want to slap his chest and roar out in pride.

Suck it, Kiryuu. Who's the man now!? Me!

He cleared his throat and raised his voice. "Well, I think we've spoken enough about my ex-rival…" He grasped Yuuki's hand.

"Yuuki…"

She eyed him speculatively as she turned properly in her seat, reading his intentions.

Her eyes widened when she realized what he was about to do.

"I said no gifts!" She whined, having figured out what he was planning.

"And I'm older than you, so I have trouble hearing," he quipped.

"Kaname…" She trailed off, smiling nervously. "I swear, if it's an airplane or something ridiculous like that…"

He stilled, glancing around the table at the people who were watching them. "That's… not something I'd do..."

"Kaname!" She gasped. "You did not–"

"Just ignore the airplane that's standing in the backyard, Yuuki," Ichijou said amicably from the other side of the table. "It's just standing there because they ran out of parking lots at the airport. It happens."

Yuuki stilled, her wide eyes flickering between the two men, her mouth hanging open. "You're playing me," she deduced eventually, narrowing her eyes.

"Hehe! Sometimes you are really easy to fool," Ichijou laughed, shooting her a grin. "We couldn't resist, Yuuki."

Yuuki sighed in relief, her hand above her heart as she breathed out. "Can you blame me?" She nudged Kaname's side. "This one here tried to give me a two-week trip to New York for Christmas once! A whole trip! And not to mention the ridiculously expensive jewelry I've had to fend off so many times over the years… I wouldn't be surprised if he purchased a spaceship for our anniversary!"

"Actually, Yuuki, our anniversary is today…" Kaname trailed off, reaching inside of his suit-jacket. "Though I'll definitely keep the spaceship in mind for the next one, this time around I went for something a little more simple…"

He fished out an envelope and handed it over to her. She accepted it nervously, glancing at him.

"Now that you mention it, you're right… today is the anniversary of our first meeting. And also the day we found back to each other. I… guess I forgot it in the midst of my exams–" she gasped as she scanned the contents of the envelope.

"You said that you wanted to go away to somewhere warm when the whole Shizuka deal was over, so…" He trailed off, unable to fight off his smile as he watched her eyes widen comically.

"One week in Singapore, and then one week in the Maldives… Kaname!" She gasped, launching her arms around him. "You're insane!"

He rubbed her back as he laughed. "I suppose that's your way of thanking me."

Yuuki giggled. "Thank you, my beloved goldfish," she said, pulling away from his embrace so she could kiss him sweetly. "I can't believe you remembered that…"

"Goldfish…?" Kaien trailed off as he frowned.

"It's a long story," Yuuki chuckled. "You remember Kouhei? Well, Kaname is my new Kouhei. If he explodes I'll be really sad…"

Kaien tipped his glasses. "Uh… I see."

"My son!" Juuri exclaimed. "We've raised such a wonderful boy, Haruka! He must've taken some lessons on romance from you, my dear!" She gushed.

"That was very thoughtful of you, Kaname," Haruka said. "I'm sorry we didn't get you anything except for the flowers, Yuuki. We weren't sure what you wanted…"

"That's all right," Yuuki grinned, wrapping her arms around Kaname's shoulders and placing a big kiss on his cheek. "I have everything I want right here."

Kaname turned his head so he was facing her and kissed her in response, smiling as he did so. Yuuki nuzzled her nose against his as she smiled goofily.

"It's perfect!" Juuri exclaimed. "Did you know that tropical climates makes it easier to conceive? If I'm not mistaken, your father and I made you in a hotelroom in Paris!" She gushed, clenching Haruka's hand and smiling at Kaname, who at the moment was losing all colour from his face. "It's not a tropical climate exactly, but it's different from Japan so… The tropical climate will help a lot! So I think you should use the opportunity to–"

Kaname groaned as Yuuki giggled, watching as Haruka once again slapped a hand over Juuri's mouth.

"My love," he cooed, "we've already gone over this. Give them some space."

Juuri grumbled into his hand, her brows furrowing as she eyed him.

"Ehem!"

Everyone's attention snapped over at the end of the table, finding Sara Shirabuki on her feet. She held a glass of champagne in her hand as she cleared her throat. Azure eyes glanced around the table hesitantly, some of her usual arrogance replaced with a tinge of nervousness.

"I'd like to announce something as well…" She trailed off, watching as all eyes turned on her.

"I'm engaged."

"Congratulations," Yuuki said as the others joined in. "Who is he?"

"He's… Someone I've been in love with for a long time," she said nervously. "We met a few years back, and at first we didn't really hit it off but then… one night, we had a moment and… I discovered that there was more to him and… well, ever since then I've been having conflicting emotions. But now, we're getting married."

After receiving a round of cheers and applause, Sara sat down quietly and smiled to herself. She could feel Ichijou's green eyes on her, his gaze imploring her to explain.

She turned as discreetly as possible and gazed at him, her blue eyes twinkling

"It's you, by the way…" She whispered.

"Huh?" Ichijou's green eyes widened.

"My fiancée… It's you. I hope you don't mind…"

"I am?" He questioned, trying his best to keep his voice low.

"Yeah…" She said hesitantly, measuring his reaction.

Ichijou blinked a few times, before a grin claimed his pink lips. "O-okay…"

"Yeah?" Sara breathed, her eyes lighting up.

"Yeah," he nodded, smiling warmly at her.

Sara blushed and smiled, tucking a stray hair behind her ear shyly.

"The two of you…? When…?" Kaname trailed off, having watched their interaction.

"Just now," Ichijou shrugged before pausing. "Or, erm… Well actually, we uh… slept together a while back. And ever since we've… been on and off and uh… now we're engaged!"

Kaname tried his best not to grimace as the image of Sara and Ichijou appeared in his mind. He blinked as he paused, connecting the dots in his mind. "Wait a minute…" He said, his eyes narrowing upon Sara. "That's your prize, isn't it? For helping me when you pretended to be my fiancée?"

Sara nodded slyly, swirling her wine around. "Yes. What I wanted from you was your blessing. Ichijou means a lot to me, and at that time, we'd just started seeing each other but I was certain he was the one for me. When you asked me for a favor, I figured that was my opportunity to win your approval."

"'My price can't be measured'", Kaname repeated her previous words, a smirk grazing his lips. "Well, you were right. Take care of my bestfriend, will you? Looking at the two of you now… you seem like the perfect fit."

"Really?" Sara said excitedly.

You both have a touch of madness. Ichijou with his drinking, and Sara with her… personality.

"Oh, absolutely," Kaname nodded exaggeratingly, watching as Ichijou's face lit up. "Congratulations, I'm happy for you."

The night went on; Juuri, Haruka and Kaien excused themselves early, while Yori, Hanabusa, Sara and Ichijou stayed for a while. Ichijou and Yuuki repeated their dance contest as music boomed from Kaname's expensive stereo speakers, while Hanabusa and Yori slow-danced. Kaname grinned as he watched Yuuki sway to the music and clumsily mouth the words whenever someone was rapping in the song, finding her absolutely adorable and stunning. His eyes were glued on her the entire night, memorizing every detail about her and committing it to memory. Her joy made his joy increase and he was all too happy to leave her with Ichijou.

Eventually, the guests cleared out one by one, and the two of them were left alone. As Kaname waved off Hanabusa and Yori, Yuuki began cleaning the living groom, carrying plates towards the kitchen.

He watched her work silently, admiring her as she diligently cleaned and hummed to herself, unaware of his presence. She was still wearing her expensive tight-fitting designer-dress, her hair bouncing down her back whenever she moved.

It was so Yuuki. Dressed impeccably, looking like a million dollars… yet still finding the time to clean and do normal things, not too scared to get her hands dirty.

She could've been someone else in that dress; she looked like someone else in that dress, but he knew the real her. Someone might've mistaken her for some trophy wife, but there was more to her than that, and that's what he adored. Actually, she was a two-in-one; she was humble, sweet, caring and everything he looked for in a woman – and she was terrifyingly gorgeous. He absolutely loved parading her around on his arm, enjoying the way people complimented them and commented on how perfectly they fit together, his pride soaring. After clearing things up with Shizuka, Kaname had begun taking her out to important functions and galas – not as his secretary, but as his girlfriend, as a way of slowly integrating her into his public life again. She kept a low profile for the most of the time, but people had begun speculating on her background.

They won't ask for long… He thought, silencing his scattered thoughts.

He helped her clean, and soon enough they were finished. They relaxed against the kitchen counter while Yuuki leaned her head on his shoulder.

"Thank you for today," Yuuki said. "It was really wonderful."

"My pleasure," he replied, launching an arm around her shoulder so she could rest against his side. "I wanted to make this night special for you."

"It was." She glanced up and smiled, reaching up on her tip-toes to kiss him. "Thank you."

"Now…" She trailed off huskily, fingering the buttons of his shirt. "How about we celebrate on our own?"

He swallowed heavily in response, immediately entranced by her allure. "I don't see why not…" He trailed off, eyeing his watch as she reached up and kissed his neck.

"Oh no," he gasped all of a sudden.

"What is it?" Yuuki said worriedly, retreating from his neck.

"The Murakami deal… I just remembered that I forgot to sign those papers before Seiren delivers them tomorrow… They're at the office," his eyes widened.

Yuuki sighed, exasperated. "Seriously? Ugh… I can't even hug you tonight without being interrupted. The universe doesn't want to me to feel pleasure!"

Kaname chuckled at her frustration. "I'm sure the universe will grant you endless bouts of pleasure after we've retrieved the papers at my office. I can feel it. In my p-"

"-Pants?" Yuuki rolled her eyes as he grinned. "You can't be perverted towards me anymore. I'm immune. I've out-perverted you. Give up, already."

"We'll see about that," Kaname winked, grabbing her hand and the car-keys. "I'll have you know – I wasn't perverted before I met you. I was normal. But then, when you became my secretary, and my crush on you escalated, I had to find a way to flirt with you without being too obvious. So I'd make some suggestions, and you'd blush and stutter. I became addicted to making you embarrassed, so I grew bolder. The best one was when I said that you were going to sleep over at my place after our first charity event together, and you said "sleep with you!?". Gah, adorable! So innocent and cute!"

Yuuki rolled her eyes, feeling the same old blush creep up her cheeks. "Oh my god… you made me suffer through constant mortification just because you were into me and couldn't do anything about it? Unfair!"

Kaname laughed as he pulled her to the hallway. "All is fair in love and war. Or should it be 'love and lust'? Secretly you liked it."

"D-did not!"

"Uh huh," he chuckled, "very convincing. And when we actually got together… well, I already had the habit of acting suggestive towards you – why change it when you were my girl? You're so cute when you get flustered…"

"I can take a s-sexual innuendo without getting f-flustered. I'm a grown woman!"

"How hard can you take it?" Kaname said, halting in front of her and turning, his voice dropping an octave.

Yuuki gasped, her cheeks stark red. "I-I'm going home! Bye!"

"You are home," Kaname reminded, pinching her red cheek.

"Whatever!" Yuuki yelled, turning her head. She eyed their linked hands and scowled at him, giving him the stink eye. "Who said I'm coming with you!?" She demanded.

He grabbed her hand and brought to his lips, placing a soft kiss on it. "The universe, Yuuki. It speaks to me. It wants me to make sweet, sweet love to you after we swing by my office."

Yuuki giggled despite herself, letting him tug her out of the mansion. "Idiot boss…"

"Sexy soulmate," he retaliated, earning a snort and a laugh from her.

Yuuki followed Kaname into his darkened office, stepping towards the huge glass windows as Kaname located the papers on the desk.

She sighed to herself, her eyes taking in the glimmering view of Tokyo in front of her. It was so beautiful at night; alive and thriving with life, billboards and flashing lights lighting up the city from the ground to the tallest building. She could see the Tokyo tower in the distance, a reminder of the fact that she'd never went up there before. She'd have to ask Kaname someday to take her up there on a date. No doubt he would rent the entire tower for her even if she as much as mentioned the tower…

She'd like that actually; the two of them, high above ground and watching the world below them. Like a king and queen, standing strongly together. She wouldn't mind that at all.

Her ears zoned out everything as her thoughts spun around in her mind. Her eyes remained locked on her favorite view, reminiscing about all the previous times she'd stood in her spot.

She was oblivious about the nervous man behind her and the racing heart in his chest.

"Yuuki…"

"Hmm?" She hummed, keeping her eyes on the view, too distracted to fully comprehend the quiver in his voice.

"Years ago, you walked into this very office and changed my life. From the moment I met you, I was completely enamored with you; head over heels crazy in love to the point where I did anything in my power to keep you close. Through three amazing years you stayed next to me, and I learned that my love for you was beyond simple attraction. Our chemistry was present from day one, and as our relationship progressed, I found in you the ultimate partner. My other half – my soulmate. The only one who could understand me the way no one else can. Every day, I fell harder and harder for you. Anything could set me off; be it a beautiful smile from you and your cute dimples, or you remembering to pack cough medicine for me whenever I felt sick and was about to leave for a business trip. You knew me better than I knew myself, and as I got to know you, I realized that there was more to you than what meets the eye. You are complex. You are difficult. You are stubborn. But you are also the most loveable creature in the world; you are kind, intelligent, warm, funny, sophisticated and ridiculously sexy. You are dangerously beautiful in every way. You deserve all the love and the happiness in the world, and I hope you will let me be the one that brings you that. I want to love you for the rest of my life; I want to make you happy and smile; I want to wake up and see you next to me every morning. So, Yuuki…"

It only took her a few seconds to realize that the words tumbling out of his lips were going to change her life. Her back stiffened as she listened to his words of love, her heart racing as she understood where he was going. Slowly she'd turned, finding him on one knee on the floor as he gazed up at her. In his hand he held a black box, which he opened as he paused. The black box opened, revealing a beautiful diamond ring. It sparkled wonderfully in the moonlight; no doubt being worth an insane amount of money, yet she didn't care. She was too lost in the vulnerability and tenderness in his eyes.

"Marry me already."

His voice shook as he chuckled nervously; nerves making his fingers tremble slightly. His heart was beating so fast to the point where it faintly hurt. The excitement made him jittery and nervous; this moment would define the rest of his life. This moment that he'd been waiting for, ever since she walked into his office.

"Kaname…" Yuuki breathed, her eyes glistening as she stared at him, her mouth open. Tears gathered in her eyes as she clamped a hand on her mouth, her emotions getting the best of her. Kaname swallowed at her action, unsure of how to interpret it.

She began nodding as tears fell down her cheeks. His eyes widened as he registered her movement. Was she saying…?

"Yes! Yes, Kaname! A thousand times yes!" She gasped, collapsing in front of him as she launched her arms around his shoulders, hugging him tightly as she sobbed. He hugged her back instantly, rubbing her back softly as he chuckled.

"I didn't know proposing to you would make you cry, Yuuki…"

"Happy tears!" She yelled, causing him to wince. She gathered herself and pulled back slightly to look at him. "Very happy tears, dummy…"

He blinked, unable to fully grasp the reality of the situation.

She'd said yes.

Yes.

"I love you," he breathed. "So, so, much. I love you. Thank you for accepting my proposal… Yuuki, oh…" He trailed off, overwhelmed as relief filled his being and replaced all his former anxiety and nervousness.

"I love you too, Kaname. There's nothing else I want more in this world than being your wife. I'm never letting you go now, you know that right? The moment you put that ring on my finger, you won't be able to get rid of me. I'll stick to you like second skin and you'll never be able to shake me off. Understand!?"

"Then let's get that ring on your finger," he said softly, taking out the ring and holding out his hand. He watched as she put her hand above his, smiling nervously as he slid the ring slowly up her ring finger. Once it was on, he leaned back, his eyes shifting between the ring on her finger and the wondrous expression on her face.

"Perfect," he whispered. "The look on your face as you gaze upon my ring on your finger, Yuuki… you've never been more beautiful to me."

Yuuki giggled and sniffled, happiness rushing through her system like a tidal wave, sending her flying in every direction. She felt like crying and laughing; like dancing and laying down on the ground forever. She was everywhere at once, but it didn't really matter.

This was a dream come true.

"To think, years ago I stepped into this office and looked for a job… And now I'm here again, getting engaged to the love of my life. How is that even possible? How'd I get so lucky?"

"Life is strange," Kaname said softly, tucking a stray hair behind her ear. "But oh so wonderful sometimes."

"Wonderful is the right word," Yuuki said, reaching over and kissing him tenderly as she filtered her fingers through his hair. He grasped her tightly in his arms, showering her with kisses as he felt her wet tears on his face.

There was so much love and tenderness in him right now that he felt like he was exploding. A few years ago he'd been laying on this very floor, complaining to Ichijou how he'd hired a new secretary after falling in love with her.

In this very room, he'd met her for the first time. Shared laughs with her. Watched her cry over her father, hugged her in comfort. He'd almost kissed her for the first time here; and after he confessed to her, this had been the place where they'd had their worst confrontations.

Their first kiss had been in the rain, outside his home when she came to him. Their first night together had been spent in his sheets; sheets she would abandon for eight months before coming back to him and healing his soul as she confessed her love to him.

In this office he'd taken her after she surprised him. In this office they'd faced Shizuka and won her over.

And right now, in this office, the circle was being completed by him placing a ring on her finger, finally able to call her his for the rest of his life.

She was no longer his secretary, and no longer his girlfriend. Now she was his future wife – the one who he would share his life with.

They kissed and touched, unable to get enough of each other as they laid down on the floor, him on top of her.

As they parted for air, Yuuki's glistening eyes stared up at him lovingly as she cradled his face in her hands. "I love you so much," she whispered. "My love, my everything… thank you for being patient for so long and waiting for me. Thank you for always being there for me even when I was too stupid to see you… I love you."

"All those years ago, on Christmas Eve, I promised you that I would always be there for you…" He trailed off as his thumb traced her lower lip. "I did it then as your friend and as the man that was secretly in love with you. And I'm going to keep that promise now as your future husband. I love you. I've loved you from the moment I saw you, and I'll love you for the rest of my life, Yuuki."

She sobbed, reaching up and kissing him. "If you love me, why are you making me cry so damn much?"

"So I can wipe your tears, darling," he chuckled, brushing them away. He paused as he frowned. "Actually, you know what? I wish I could go back in time."

"Why?" She inquired gently.

"So I could high-five my past-self and say that all my frustrations and waiting will come to fruition. That I'm gonna get the girl. And make sweet, sweet love to her as much as I want."

Yuuki laughed heartily and sighed. "You idiot boss."

"It's not boss anymore," he reminded, tapping her nose.

"You idiot future husband of mine," Yuuki said softly.

"That's more like it, little goldfish."

Their lips met in another heated kiss, the two of them illuminated by the soft glow of the moonlight outside. They sighed in relief, finally being able to look towards their future together.

"I love you, I love you, I love you," came her whisper in the darkness of the room.

His whispered confession met hers as the two melted in yet another kiss.

Boss, secretary… friend, hesitant companion; rivals to lovers – these were just titles that'd been holding them back for so many years. None of that mattered now; the love and the strong bond between them overrode any obstacle in their path, paving the way to their future.

There were so many titles in the world, but as they looked at each other, they realized that none of them mattered. She was his everything, as he was to her – and that's all that mattered.

Despite the protests of society, and the notions of social class, they stuck together and fought for the one thing that bound them together.

Love.

Unconditional, mind-blowing, life-changing, pure and honest love – which could not be denied nor subdued.

True love.

A/N: Thanks for reading. Reviews are veeeery much appreciated.

Just a quick comment on the Ichijou and Sara scene; perhaps some of you recognize it, but it's a nod to one of my favorite movies - Notting Hill. It's when Will's kinda crazy sister announces she's engaged and everyone cheers for her, and afterwards she leans over to Spike, who's Will's eccentric roomie, and says that it's actually him that's her fiancée. And he's like 'ok'. Basically, I thought it was perfect for Ichjijou and Sara.

Rena: Ohh, I'm so glad you liked it! Hopefully this was worth the wait and made you happy as well. I'm sad about you relating to yume's christmas moment :( Hopefully it's not as messed up as these two lovers' situation.. I hope this cheers you up, dear! 3