Author's Note:

Welcome back to our regularly scheduled posting. We're happy you enjoyed your Christmas present last week.

Drop a review – Dad and I would love to hear from you. I read every one of them to him. Makes his week.

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xXx

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Date Posted: December 31, 2022

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Painful Truth - Chapter 11: Can't Sleep

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Wednesday, September 28 (Continued):

Early Morning, Twin's Room, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

Motherfucker!

Cold sweat.

And now I'm pacing the room.

I'm never fucking sleeping again. Ever.

Every time I close my eyes, I see Haruhi. Haruhi dead. Haruhi bloody. Haruhi with no hands. Haruhi in pieces.

I spun around when I heard rustling and squinted in the dark. Good. Looks like Kaoru's still asleep. Both of us don't need to be up.

"Hika?"

Shit.

"Yeah."

I watched a dark lump slowly sit up. "What's wrong?"

"Wrong?" I started pacing again. "What's wrong? You're asking me what's wrong?"

"Yes."

Fuck. I hate it when he's so calm.

"Bad dream."

"Think you can go back to sleep?"

"No way in hell," I choked out.

His phone's glow caught my eye. "It's four in the morning."

"So."

"So," he turned on the light and swung his legs out of bed, "let's order room service and play some video games."

"You're on."

.

xXx

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Early Morning, Cho and Renge's Room, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

"You don't think that's too big?"

"No. Now that Tamaki-kun's grandmother's gone, we can have the wedding we want. Ten is a good number for a bridal party."

"Oh, that's not that bad. I thought you meant ten bridesmaids, not five couples."

Renge shook her head and grinned at me. "I did mean ten bridesmaids."

"What?"

My face must have been priceless because she just laughed at me. "It takes five couples just to cover the host club. We have family and family friends we have to include for political reasons."

Haruhi and Mori. Honey-kun and me. The twins. Satoshi and Chika. I guess that is five. Shinobu and Ritsu can't be included.

"Who are the twins walking with?"

"Don't know yet. Don't know about Satoshi and Chika either. Probably either some cousins or friends from Ouran." She leaned back on the sofa and rested her head to the side. "Mori-senpai's walking with Keiko, so that's taken care of."

"Wait. He's not walking with Haruhi?"

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Dammit.

We haven't told anyone yet about Ootori being the best man. We were going to do it on a Wednesday when we got back from St. Louis, but with Todi finals and the ball, we haven't yet. Mori-senpai should really be told before anyone else.

"No. Tamaki's got a different best man."

"Oh. I guess that makes sense. He and Mori-senpai aren't that close."

Don't ask…don't ask…

I jumped a bit when someone knocked on the door. "Room service."

Perfect timing.

"I'll get it," Cho jumped up and headed for the door.

About half an hour ago, I rolled over in bed and saw her phone screen. She couldn't sleep so she was studying. Of course, after that I couldn't go back to sleep, so we'd been sitting around in fluffy robes talking about the wedding. It was as good a topic as anything to keep us from heading over and sitting outside Haruhi and Shinobu's room.

They need their sleep after everything that happened. Kidnapped, tortured…because it was torture even if no one's using that word, rescued, and then surgeries.

The relief that rushed through me when Ishikawa told us. It was like someone cut my strings. If they hadn't been found or their bodies were found…I don't think the group could have recovered from that.

"…ge?" I flinched back at the hand snapping in front of my face. "Earth to Renge?"

Took me a second to focus. "Kaoru?"

"Nope but thank you for playing the which one is Hikaru game."

"Damn. I thought I was getting better."

"You are, but we're wearing the same pajamas and our hair's a mess."

"What are you doing here?"

"I found them in the hallway," Cho said as she directed two room service carts into the lounge area. "They couldn't sleep either. When I opened the door, their food was being delivered too. I invited them to join us."

Oh. OK.

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xXx

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Early Morning, Kyoya's Room, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

"Fuck it."

I cringed as I hit submit for my economics homework. Not my best, but who am I kidding, really. I already own and run the Ootori Conglomeration. Getting a less than perfect grade on one homework set isn't going to hurt anything.

Besides, Yoshio isn't around to punish me. I made sure of that.

Pulling my black notebook closer, I started running my to do list.

Economics homework – done

Increase security for Yuki and Akito – done

It's really cute – yes, cute – how Akito called to tell me he'd increased security for Yuki. He's so stupid in love it would be disgusting if I didn't approve. Of course, I'd already increased it. And his. And Fuyumi's. And Sota's.

I will not allow what happened to Haru to happen to any one of the group. What's the point of owning a private police force if I can't keep my friends and family safe. And I will keep them safe even if they don't even know I'm doing it.

Call Kakurega re victims – done

Matsushita re hospital press release

Nishimori re basement

Shit.

"Tachibana!"

Probably shouldn't have yelled like that. He came skidding into the room on full alert.

"Sorry. Nothing's wrong."

Even exhausted, he's professional enough not to roll his eyes as he holstered his weapon.

"We're going to BOS headquarters. I want to check on the basement investigation."

"Do you want me to call Nishimori in?"

"No. I'll review the papers in the SKIF. He's supposed to be keeping a log for me."

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"Ogata Yoshitaka? Isn't he head of the emperor's security?"

"Yes, but he's retiring next week." I'd waited to brief Kyoya-sama on Ishikawa-san's plan for a security review because he was supposed to be doing his homework. Now that we're headed to BOS Headquarters, the limo ride was as good a time as any. "Ishikawa-san knew through his training contacts."

"Did you know?"

"Yes." I have my own contacts. They're probably better than Ishikawa-san's.

"What do you think?"

"It needs to be done, and he's the perfect choice. He knows more about elite security than probably anyone else in the country. If any of the group's families needed to hire a new security head, he'd top everyone's list even if they'd never get him. He's got a no-nonsense way of cutting through the infighting and fiefdoms and getting consensus."

"I agree."

"Morimoto-san suggested the BOS hire him and bill out to the rest of the group. He's doing a full shakeup of the BOS anyway, so it makes sense."

Kyoya-sama nodded slightly.

"I have your migraine meds right here." I shook the bottle. "The non-drowsy ones." Knowing he probably wouldn't sleep for hours. I'll try to get him to take a nap after breakfast. He'll sleep better once he checks in on Haruhi-sama.

"Fine." He swallowed a couple and tried to hand me back the water bottle.

"Drink it all. You need it if you're not going to sleep."

"Since when did you become my nursemaid?" But he did drink it.

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xXx

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Early Morning, Yuki and Akito's Room, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

I can't believe we did that.

Actually, I can't believe we didn't do it.

I looked down at the head of silky hair using my chest for a pillow and couldn't stop myself from running my fingers through it.

It's a good thing her birthday is coming in less than two months. I don't think we can wait much longer. Everything about us feels right. Our personalities work. I give her the protection, freedom, and support she needs, and she gives me the attention and love I never got and didn't realize I hunger for.

The trip to Australia will be amazing, and not just because we'll finally make love, but we'll have time to ourselves like we did in New Orleans and Yellowstone. Those were the best days and nights I've ever had in my life.

Last night was a surprise. At first, I thought she just wanted some physical comfort, but it turned desperate. It wasn't until we were on the brink before I realized we were both just trying to block out the last couple of days. Just wanting to do something that made us feel alive.

Fortunately, we ended up only going a little further than we'd gone at Yellowstone and finished each other off with our hands. She'd done that for me before, but I hadn't returned the favor yet. The look on her face as her first ever orgasm shot through her is something I'll hold in my heart forever.

Damn…listen to yourself, Akito. You've got it bad.

It was less than a minute after she practically passed out. I was right behind her.

Her shifting in her sleep and rubbing her leg down mine brought me back to reality. I turned slightly to see the alarm clock. Four thirty.

I hope Haruhi and Shinobu are getting some sleep. I didn't realize until I was a patient how hard it is to actually sleep in a hospital. The random noises, nurses coming in and out for vitals, uncomfortable bed, and unfamiliar smells. And I was in the VIP suite where they are. I can't imagine what a regular room is like.

Maybe every doctor and nurse should spend the night as a patient. We'd have more empathy that way. Maybe I'll suggest it to Kyoya.

Yuki snuggled up against me tighter, and I felt her breath ghost across my chest. Losing whatever sleep I'm going to lose is worth it if I can be this close to her.

But my mind drifted back to the girls in the hospital.

I saw Eiji, Haruhi's detail head, rolling around the hospital a couple times yesterday. Will he stay her detail head?

Yuki hasn't brought it up, so I haven't either, but I'm sure there's going to be a huge security shakeup soon. You don't kidnap two primaries, one a yakuza heir, without there being a security review. And if Haruhi and Shinobu can be gotten to, any of us can.

And what is Mori going to do now? I never did find out exactly what happened that caused their fight in St. Louis and Haruhi hiding in the hotel for the days leading up to his competition, but whatever it was specifically, it was about security in general. And now hers has been compromised.

Their relationship is so new. Will it survive what happened? Will there be another fight? Or will she be traumatized to the point she hides? No, I can't picture that. Her becoming more cautious, yes, but hiding? No. At least not for long. She's not someone who will let external circumstances rule her like that.

And Shinobu? I think I'm more worried about her. She's so tough and sees herself as untouchable. When someone like that is hit with a direct contradiction to their beliefs, they take it hard. Ritsu will be there for her, but he's not a professional. He won't necessarily see the signs.

I'll talk to him. And while I'm at it, maybe I can get him to admit they're married. At least, I think they are. Something's different about them since Vegas, and we all know what happens in Vegas.

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xXx

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Early Morning, Tamaki's Room, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

"OUCH!"

I hopped the rest of the way to the door and yanked it open. "Renge-chan?"

Instantly, her eyes tracked down to the foot I was holding. "What happened?"

"Huh?"

"Your foot? What happened?"

"Never mind my foot. Are you alright?"

I couldn't help but smile at her laugh. "I'm fine. I couldn't sleep so I came to check on you. Now," her hands landed on her hips, "what's wrong with your foot?"

"Stubbed my toe."

"Oh."

We stood there staring at each other. She broke the spell when she shifted from one foot to the other. "Are you going to invite me in?"

I looked down at my pajamas and felt my face flush hot. "I'm not dressed, and it's not proper." That's when I realized she was dressed. And looked so cute in casual jeans and a long-sleeved pullover.

"It's OK. I'll wait in the lounge while you get dressed."

She pushed past me, and I saw Shimizu-san, her detail head, behind her. "I'll act as chaperone, Suoh-sama, if that's alright with you."

"Thank you."

Once she shut the door, I headed for the shower. Maybe a hot one will help clear my head.

My poor, darling friend. To go through all that when she didn't have to. They wanted Shinobu, not Haruhi.

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These two are darling together. As difficult as his wild antics make guarding them sometimes, I do enjoy my job. I've guarded Renge-sama for years and worried about his influence when they started dating, but that's gone now. He treats her like the princess she is and never questions either Tabata-san or me about our security requests.

"It's beautiful," she mumbled from her place leaning against him while he played that electric piano for her.

I'm not sure I'd call it beautiful. More like haunting.

Though I shouldn't be surprised. The kidnapping has put all of us in either sad or angry places. Oh, sure, we were all relieved when they were rescued, but that didn't erase what happened. Two primaries were kidnapped.

I haven't seen Kono or Miwa since all this happened, and I assume I won't see either of them ever again.

I've been a PPD guard in one way or another for over twenty years, and I've never seen a group of guards more on edge. Ishikawa calling for a complete review is not just necessary, but critical.

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xXx

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Early Morning, Kasanoda Compound:

"This is ridiculous."

I tossed the covers off and climbed out of bed.

I know the young lord told me to get some sleep, but he has to realize I don't like leaving him at the hospital. I don't care if half of his detail is still there. I don't care if the place is flooded with BOS officers and hospital security, not to mention all the guards from the other families that have been pulled in to help.

He's my responsibility. Like it or not.

"Hey, Tetsuya. Where're you off to?"

Damn. I'm already in the garage.

Did I just shower and get dressed on autopilot?

"Hospital."

There must be a cot or something there I can sleep on.

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xXx

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Early Morning, Black Onion Squad [BOS] Headquarters:

"I've sent men to their homes. They'll be in cells within the hour."

I just sat there, my elbows on the conference table and my face in my hands. Seven. Seven Black Onion Squad officers were identified through DNA as having been in that basement room.

Seven.

And four still employed here.

"And the other three?"

"One's in Nagoya. I've got a team headed there. Another seems to have left the country after Yoshio's death was announced. They're trying to find him." I heard him sit down across from me. "We can't find the third yet."

"It's only been thirty minutes. I'm surprised we know all that we do."

When we got here, the DNA report was waiting on the table. Nishimori would have opened it first thing this morning and contacted me, but I beat him to it.

"We keep track of all past employees. The third slipped our nets."

"Another thing to review as we perform our audit."

"Yes, Sir."

I leaned back and finished my coffee. Shit my stomach. Need some antiacids. I'm too young for this shit.

"What did you think about Haru's statement?" We'd gone our separate ways in the suite as soon as we got there, so we didn't watch it together.

"She said what she needed to say."

I've known him too long to not know when he's holding something back. "And?"

"And her celebrity will increase by a factor of ten now. Her insistence she's not a victim, her publicly praising Himura-sama, her request to support Lighthouse and Kakurega. She's more of a media darling than ever."

"You think Eiji's up to it?"

"No."

"Neither do I."

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xXx

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Early Morning, Satoshi and Chika's Room, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

I came in from the balcony when I heard Chika's alarm go off.

He jumped and almost dropped his glasses when I asked, "What the hell are you setting an alarm for? It's five thirty in the morning!"

"Australian Markets open soon."

I decided not to smack him. It's not like his alarm woke me up or anything. "You're crazy. You haven't slept well in days, and you set an alarm?"

He only shrugged and headed for the bathroom.

He came back out a few minutes later slicking his hair back with wet hands. "What are you doing up?"

"Never got to sleep. Too much on my mind."

"Takashi?"

"Yeah." I flopped down on the bed. "I keep thinking about it. All of it. Can he live with it? How could he do it? And what will Haruhi think of him when she finds out?"

"I know, but you got to set it down. You can't solve it for him and worrying doesn't help anything."

"Easy for you to say."

"No, you idiot, it's not." I rolled over and looked at him. "I saw him do it. I'm the one that had to tell him he did it. If I can put it down, you can."

He's right. But when it comes down to it, Taka should have never been there. Haruhi should have never been there.

"Hey, Chika?"

"Hmm?"

"Just how much money do you have?"

He looked up and raised a brow, "You don't really want to know."

"Yeah, I do."

"More than you. Let's leave it at that."

"Fine," I huffed and rolled on my back to stare at the ceiling.

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I finished my market review and checked the news for the headlines I'm waiting for. A couple more clicks and, "Done."

He didn't move.

Idiot.

As much as we might want to, we can't carry this burden for Takashi.

"Let's go to the gym."

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xXx

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Early Morning, Haninozuka Dojo:

The sun was just peeking over the horizon when I slid open the dojo door. After our conference call last night, I headed straight for bed and managed several straight hours of sleep.

Didn't manage to sleep in at all though. Decades of habit woke me at five. Habit also brought me here.

Wasn't expecting to see Oshiro here. He usually practices on the Morinozuka estate.

When he finished his forms, I softly cleared my throat to make my presence known. "Good morning."

"Good morning, Ishikawa. I was hoping to catch you here."

That explains his presence. "Care for a match?"

The gleam in his eye was all the answer I needed.

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I tossed him a bottle of water then leaned forward, bracing my hands on my knees. "That was a good match." I'm embarrassed at how out of breath I am.

"It was." He drank half and dumped the rest on his head. "We can't let the young ones think they can beat us."

We both smiled knowing full well that any of the four young masters could indeed beat us. Takashi-sama and Mitsukuni-sama with only one hand.

"I wanted to talk about Ogata."

"I haven't mentioned him to Yorihisa-sama or Akira-sama. Perhaps we should hold off and discuss it all together."

"Excellent idea. They're meeting at the hospital for breakfast. We could join them."

"I need to review security protocols with our officers there and hospital security." He checked his watch. "If we get ready and leave soon, we'll make shift-change at six and can join them for breakfast."

"I'll want my own car. I'll meet you at the hospital."

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xXx

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Early Morning, Haninozuka Suite, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

"This little one does not want me to get any sleep."

I smiled and handed Kumi a wet washcloth for her forehead. I don't remember the morning sickness being this bad with either Mitsukuni or Chika.

Though I am realizing how much I missed with the boys. I'd just been named head of the family after Father got sick so young. She was already pregnant with Mitsukuni when Father died. I wish he could have met his grandsons. I know he would have been proud.

I jerked back to reality at the sound of another retch. It's a good thing we ate when we got back to the hotel. It's always harder to vomit nothing.

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I wish he'd stop hovering. All I want to do is lay down on the floor and hope the room stops spinning. I did not get this sick with the boys.

Does that mean this is a girl?

A daughter?

That would be so wonderful. A daughter to dress up and play with. One to take to teas. One to shop with. A daughter to carry on the strong, female role of the Haninozuka woman. One to share all my wisdom with and watch her raise a family of her own.

"Can I get you anything?"

"Is there ginger tea?"

"I'll check." He left the room, and I leaned back against the cool, tile wall. Finally.

I hate being sick.

"Will ginger ale work?"

I opened my eyes and saw a can hovering in front of my face. "Yes. Thanks."

A few sips later, and I did feel better. It's not like there's anything left to come up.

"Think you could eat something?"

Could I? "Maybe some dry toast or crackers."

"I'll order…"

"There should be some saltines in the bag my maid sent over."

"I'll get them."

"Wait," I pulled myself up, "I'll come out there. I'm not eating in the bathroom."

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xXx

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Early Morning, Phone Call between Kyoya and Morimoto:

Morimoto (BOS Head): I jerked up, instantly awake at my ringing cell phone. My wife just rolled over. Fortunately, she's a heavy sleeper.

"Yes, Kyoya-sama?"

Kyoya: "Tachibana briefed me on Ogata."

Morimoto (BOS Head): So, not an emergency. What time is it? Six am? Feels like I just went to sleep.

Kyoya: "I agree with your proposal. Meet me at the hospital at seven thirty for breakfast to discuss the details."

Morimoto (BOS Head): Not only not an emergency, but he doesn't need me for an hour and a half. Has he even slept yet?

Kyoya: "Morimoto?"

Morimoto (BOS Head): "I'm here, Kyoya-sama. I'll see you at seven-thirty."

I heard a door then voices. I think that's Tachibana.

Kyoya: "Sorry to wake you."

Morimoto (BOS Head): Yes. Tachibana. He's a good influence.

"No apology necessary. I'll see you at the hospital."

The line went dead.

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I hung up and glared at Tachibana. He just shrugged. "Not everyone is awake when you are, Kyoya-sama."

"I apologized, didn't I."

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I set an alarm for six-thirty and rolled over.

I'll need a vacation after this all settles down.

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xXx

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Early Morning, Akito and Yuki's Room, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

"Yuki-chan?"

Why can't…I…move!?

"Yuki-chan, you're having a nightmare. I'm right here. You're safe."

My eyes flew open as I gave one last hard push. "No!" First thing I saw were Akito's eyes. Gentle, strong eyes.

"We're in a hotel, remember? Next door to the hospital?"

Hospital. Haruhi and Shinobu. "Right."

I rolled over, threw the covers off, and stood up.

Cold.

Looking down, I realized I'm only in my panties.

Then last night flooded back.

And just like the lifeline I needed, Akito was behind me, wrapping a robe around my shoulders. "Don't be embarrassed. You're absolutely ravishing in the morning."

I turned to repay the compliment, and he kissed me. Hard.

When he pulled back, he tilted his head and asked, "Are you alright? I know we didn't plan on last night, and if you're uncomfortable…" He stopped talking the second my fingers touched his lips.

"I don't regret last night. Not at all. It was…" Amazing? Earth-shattering? Incredible? "More than I ever thought it could be. Thank you."

His tongue slipped out from between his lips and quickly licked my fingers. "No, thank you." A shiver shot up my back at his gruff tone.

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I kissed her again. Didn't even want to try to stop myself.

More than anything, I wanted to pull her back to bed and stay there for days. But logic won out, and I broke the kiss.

"I can't go back to sleep. That dream probably won't let me."

I didn't ask. If she wanted to, she'd tell me.

"Don't you have a final this morning?"

"Yes." And there better not be any damn press outside my classroom.

"Let's get dressed and hunt down some breakfast."

"It's six now. I think the private buffet opens at six-thirty."

She gave me a sad smile before heading for the bathroom. "How about a coffee shop somewhere around here. I don't feel like a lot of people yet."

Maybe I can have security clear one for us.

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xXx

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Early Morning, Parking Garage, Tokyo Main:

"You can return the van to the hospital pool. I'm out of this wheelchair this afternoon."

"Yes, Eiji-san."

At least I'm not in it as long as Haruhi-sama was after her car accident. I've gained a new appreciation for her frustrations.

I rolled onto the elevator and hit 'five' for the security offices. I'll be in time for shift change and be there for the security briefing. It beats tossing and turning back at my apartment.

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Oshiro sighed when we saw Eiji roll in. "I take it he isn't supposed to be here."

"Told him I don't want to see him until after breakfast."

"He seems surprised to see you here as well."

He snorted. "None of my officers should be surprised to find me anywhere."

"True." I watched him maneuver the wheelchair out of the way. "Has Haruhi-sama seen him yet?"

"No. I'm not looking forward to that discussion. He should not stay on her team, and I'm concerned she'll want him to stay."

Just then, the Tokyo Main security officer started his briefing…

"Good morning.

"It was a relatively quiet night, with only one major incident. At two-seventeen we had to close the emergency room for nineteen minutes. This was due to a security breech caused by reporters. Several posed as accident victims to gain access as patients. Those disguised as family members tried to slip away into the hospital proper.

"They were heading for the VIP patient rooms and were detained before reaching the elevators. All were arrested for filing false reports, trespassing, and anything else the police could determine.

"Once the hospital was searched and cleared, the emergency room was open to trauma again."

"Idiots," Oshiro mumbled. I had to agree. I'll confirm if any of our officers were involved and make sure they give the police any information they have.

"Aside from that, we've escorted out several members of the general public trying to get a glimpse of our VIPs. They never even got off the ground floor. Our switchboard, while dealing with fewer calls, has not calmed down much. Inquiries for gifts are being directed to Lighthouse, press questions are forwarded to Matsushita-san's office and staff, and any security or police issues are coming directly to me.

"Any questions?"

The room was quiet, and I was satisfied. Tokyo Main security officers are BOS trained, so they know what they're doing.

"Ishikawa-san, Oshiro-san," he nodded to us, "I want to thank you and your officers for the additional assistance."

We simply nodded back and allowed him to continue.

"As for today, we're expecting more of the same. Reporters and the general public trying to gain access to our VIPs. Be watchful of attempted bribery of hospital employees. If you see an employee accept a bribe, detain both the reporter and the employee and escort them to my offices. Any further action will be taken by hospital security and the police.

"Arriving gifts did slow down overnight, but it's unclear if it's because of Fujioka-sama's statement or being overnight. All gifts will continue to be screened by security, loaded into vans, and delivered to other hospitals to the trafficking victims. Morinozuka staff will continue to coordinate this process."

"That was Honami-san's idea, was it not?"

I nodded. "She's become quite an asset to Haruhi-sama."

"Indeed."

"That's it. Be diligent. The press is hungry for a story and Tokyo Main is their hunting ground.

"Dismissed."

.

I tried to avoid Oshiro-sama as I rolled out of the room, but he and Ishikawa-sama cut me off.

"Eiji, I didn't expect to see you here."

"I couldn't sleep, so I thought I'd come back and help. If nothing else, I can report back anything I see through the radio."

"Very well." They backed off and walked around me. "Stay away from Haruhi-sama's room."

Of course, I will. She's not ready for that discussion. She's probably not ready to even see me.

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xXx

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Early Morning, PR Representative's Suite, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

I stood in the doorway watching Endo-san shuffling papers back and forth across the desk she'd chosen as hers. We didn't talk about her new role in Haruhi-sama's PR now that she has an agent. By the time her statement was over and we watched the rest of the news, we were both too tired to think straight.

She tossed the stack of paper back on the desk and let out a huge sigh, clearly more frustrated than she was yesterday.

"Endo-san?"

She jumped and spun around. I honestly didn't think I'd scare her, or I wouldn't have done that. I remember being young and at the beginning of my career. Wanting to make a name for myself. Wanting to do a good job.

"Hara-san. Good morning."

"Good morning." I pulled up a chair to her desk and sat. "I like your suit." And I did. Just the right mix of navy and rust to be professional and represent the season. My Michael Kors was of better quality, but the Hitachiin line does not look cheap. That kid is doing a good job.

"Thank you." She sat too, although it's more like she plopped into her seat.

"We need to talk about how we move forward with Inokuma-san."

She squeezed her eyes shut and nodded, clearly expecting the worst.

"He and his staff will be taking over most of the day-to-day activities for her. Approving her social media posts, interviews, appearances, and photo shoots."

She sighed and slumped forward slightly. I forget just how young she is. She was an intern just two years ago.

"You'll continue to be her point of contact within the Morinozuka household and accompany her when she's representing the family. I expect Inokuma-san to assign a member of his staff to act as her escort for most of her public appearances."

"I don't see how my responsibilities will be anything more than part time."

"After this initial craziness is over, I'll be handing off whatever's still on my plate to you and only being involved when the parents are. I also want you to work closer with Honami-san. She handles Haruhi-sama's correspondence and gifts. You can help with that."

.

Still sounds like a demotion.

I may not have been perfect, but I was learning so much and now I feel like Hara-sama let Inokuma-san cut my legs out from under me.

"We don't know what's coming. Given the crimes the kidnappers were arrested for, Haruhi-sama and the rest of the Morinozuka's and Haninozuka's could become quite politically involved. Managing that will fall on us. Or we may need to become a wall in front of the families."

She reached out and rapped her knuckles on the desk. "No matter what, your job isn't in jeopardy. The responsibilities might change, but there will be plenty for you to do."

"Thank you."

"Now," she stood and headed for the phone, "let's order some breakfast and watch the overnight news wrap up. I want to be at the hospital ready for whatever's coming before the morning shows."

If they're anything like the social media I just checked, there's a lot of speculation about how Haruhi-sama was kidnapped when it was Himura-sama who was investigating. Rumors about how they were both sold. Rumors that Haruhi-sama's permanently disfigured. Her statement with half her face covered in bandages didn't do anything to calm that down.

She'll need to do interviews on TV and in newspapers and magazines. We need to kill these rumors yesterday.

I pulled up a blank email and had it half finished before I realized that's not my job anymore.

Dammit.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Gym, Kasanoda Compound:

"Ryuu-sama, I've heard from Dai."

"About fucking time." I gestured to the treadmill beside me for Fujii to join. I know Ritsu doesn't think I exercise enough, but he's so busy, he just doesn't see me do it. "When?"

"Eleven this morning. Neutral location."

"Make sure Junto and Hibino know. I'll tell Ritsu." I felt the anger start to build again and raised the incline. "When's he leaving the country?"

"This afternoon. They're leaving on his personal yacht."

"Good riddance."

Fujii only grunted and increased his running speed. After my knee injury last year, I don't run anymore. Just walk.

Junto's going to accept the syndicate on behalf of Shinobu-chan. I know Ritsu wants to do it, but we're keeping their marriage quiet for now. No one wants Arisa to find out, and I'd rather be in another country when she does.

"Are you meeting with Ritsu before his police interview?"

"Yes, Ryuu-sama. There isn't much for him to tell them. He won't be speaking to any of the investigation or the rescue planning. He'll confirm shooting Daikichi, but that's it."

"Good. The less said the better."

I'm curious to see how many of his men stay with Shinobu in charge. The news could influence them either way. Some will see her as a true boss going through the kidnapping and torture. Others will see her as a traitor for trying to take down their syndicate. Daiju doing it on his own won't matter.

Hopefully some that stay are good with security. Junto needs better men after Kono and his team.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Gym, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

"Ever thought about doing that for real?" I asked Satoshi as he worked the rowing machine. "Might not be bad cross-training."

"No. Too much focus on form and stroke length. I just wanted to try something new today. Works my thighs differently."

Turning back to my stair-stepper, I saw two redheads out on the sidewalk. "Looks like the twins are headed over to the hospital."

"Guess Hikaru-senpai thinks he might get to see Haruhi."

"Not if Aunt Umeko has anything to say about it. Haruhi needs her rest."

"She also needs her friends, Chika. I'm sure he's capable of sitting still and speaking softly for a few minutes."

My timer beeped and the stairs slowed for my cool down.

"Let's finish up, shower, and get over there for breakfast. I'd rather watch the news with the rest of them than in our hotel room."

"OK."

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Personal Assistant Suite, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

"That's a nice suit."

"Thanks. I think it's my favorite from the fall line." I straightened the brick red jacket over the black vest and matching shirt. I'd paired it with the long skirt with black stripes. I did a slow spin to show Aoi-san the back. "The kick pleats make is so easy to walk in."

Her suit is really sharp. Dark purple slacks and jacket with a black shirt and onyx jewelry. Hers is Dior not Every Woman, and I'm sure she paid for it herself. I'd be so afraid I'd spill something on it or sit in something.

I've managed to save a lot of money not having to buy my work clothes. Leave it to Haruhi-sama to think to include dressing me as part of her agreement with Hitachiin-sama.

"Are you ready for today?"

I picked up my briefcase and smiled, "As ready as I can be."

We both got a good night's sleep. I turned off the light and TV as soon as Haruhi-sama's statement was over, and the alarm only went off half an hour ago.

"Good. It will probably be even crazier today. Now that they're both finished with their surgeries and all the arrests have been made, the media will be digging for new information. Our job today is to be the wall between Umeko-sama and Haruhi-sama and the outside world."

We decided to eat breakfast at the hospital VIP buffet. Full breakfast service starts at six-thirty, just a few minutes from now.

"Let's head over. Once we eat and check in, we'll probably make a run to the estate for them."

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Haruhi's Guest Room, Tokyo Main:

I wasn't sure what woke me up until I heard the nurse mumbling under her breath. I couldn't make it out, but it didn't sound urgent. Must just be checking vitals.

Trying not to wake Akira, I slipped out of the bed, tossed on a robe, and tiptoed across the room.

"How cute…"

There's the nurse standing there with her hands on her hips staring at my son who's in the bed with Haruhi, curled up around her like a shield.

She must have heard me come up behind her. "He really shouldn't be in there."

Then she pointed across the room, "And that dog should definitely not be here."

"Dog?"

Sure enough, along with Shinobu-chan and Ritsu-kun, there's a dog in her bed. That must be Kasa.

"I'm sure seeing the dog was a great comfort to her."

"Yes, but it's not hygienic to have a dog in the hospital, especially the patient's bed."

I tend to agree and wouldn't suggest bringing Haruhi-chan's cats here, but she doesn't know the whole story. "Shinobu-chan and Haruhi-chan were getting the dog groomed when they were kidnapped."

"Oh," her hand flew to her mouth, "I had no idea. No wonder…"

"They'll probably send the dog back home this morning but knowing she's alright will help Shinobu-chan heal."

She fluttered around checking a few things then left.

I retrieved my cell phone and took pictures of Haruhi-chan and Takashi in bed. He probably shouldn't be curled up with her, but I didn't think I'd see her face so relaxed even in sleep.

If only I could keep her like that. Relaxed and safe.

"I worry about rumors," Akira whispered in my ear as he came up behind me and wrapped me in his arms. "We had him move off the estate and now this. The staff might not be discrete."

"I'll speak with him. I'm sure there's a reason other than romance."

I turned around with a grin when I heard his stomach growl. "Let's get dressed. The buffet is open."

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Parking Garage, Tokyo Main:

"I want the three of you to wander the hospital listening for rumors. If any of the staff are speaking out of turn, I need to know."

"Yes, Inokuma-sama."

"I'll be coordinating with Hara and Endo about a press release later this morning. We'll reiterate what Fujioka-sama said last night and have a doctor confirm she's recovering."

By this time, my assistants and I'd made it to the elevator, and I selected the top floor.

I must have time with Fujioka-sama today. Requests for interviews are in the hundreds, and her fans are out of control on social media. She needs to make another statement soon.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Shinobu's Guest Room, Tokyo Main:

Texts:

Ryuu: Meet with Dai 1100. Leaving country afternoon

Junto: Let's meet here for breakfast and discuss.

Ryuu: k. will bring Fujii

Junto: will contact Hibino

Ryuu: 0700?

Junto: k

.

"Who was that?" I'm normally a heavy sleeper but this isn't my bed and my baby's out there and might need me.

"Ryuu-san. We're meeting with Dai this morning for the handoff. We'll meet over breakfast to discuss a plan."

"When?"

"Half an hour."

"Might as well get up with you."

I tossed the covers off and headed for the shower before Junto could claim it.

.

I walked into Shinobu's room and saw her and Ritsu-kun curled up in her bed. With her dog.

Got to remember he's actually her husband, and I can't get mad, but I've got to get him out of there before Arissa sees them.

"Ritsu?" I nudged his shoulder, doing my best to not wake up my daughter. She probably needs more sleep than she's been getting.

He opened one eye and glared at me. "What?"

"Get out of that bed before Arissa sees you two. Join me for breakfast."

I watched him slowly crawl out from under the covers and wires. Kasa woke up and raised her head.

"Hey," he scratched behind her ears, "you stay with Bu, OK?"

That mutt must have understood him because she put her head back down on Shinobu's arm and closed her eyes.

"Crazy dog," he mumbled and headed for the door. "I'll catch a shower in one of the other guest rooms and meet you at the buffet."

"We're meeting your father there at seven."

He responded with a grunt.

.

As soon as Junto-san closed the door to his guest room, I climbed out of Haruhi's bed. I should get a shower too before Haruhi wakes up and the rest of the host club arrives.

I headed for the door but stopped when Mother opened the guest room door. "Mother?"

"Takashi. I'm glad you're awake before the day nurses come on duty. You really shouldn't be seen in Haruhi-chan's bed."

I shifted from one foot to the other. "She had a nightmare, and it was the only way I could calm her down."

"I figured. However, gossip will do neither of your reputations any good."

"Yes, Mother."

"Why don't you get changed and join your father and me for breakfast."

I nodded and continued out of the room and down the hall to a guest room Ootori provided, nodding to the two guards on the door as I left.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, VIP Private Buffet, Tokyo Main:

"I'll want you there in case there are legal issues."

"Of course, Junto-sama." I would have suggested it if he hadn't asked. Being a yakuza lawyer is never boring.

"Morning," Ryuu-sama said in his booming voice and pulled up a chair. He'd brought Fujii-san and Tetsuya-san, but they headed for the buffet.

"Good morning," I responded before taking another sip of my coffee. Junto-sama still looked mostly asleep as he finished his first cup.

Over the next few minutes, Ritsu-sama joined us with a plate piled high, and Ryuu-sama went and got his breakfast.

Hibino was the last to arrive. "I've had my breakfast." Didn't stop him from grabbing a large cup of coffee.

Ryuu-sama did most of the talking since he's the one that's been in contact with Dai.

"We're meeting at a neutral location at eleven this morning. He'll hand over the syndicate. He and his family are leaving the country this afternoon."

"Legit stuff too?"

"Yes. The apartments are in the syndicate's legal branch's name."

"Bu can't handle dealing with all that shit right away."

"We'll bring it back and talk to her about it this afternoon. We'll bring her lawyer along."

"That asshole?" Ritsu-sama banged his fist on the table. "After he withheld all that info, you're going to bring him in on this?"

Junto-sama squinted at him and spoke in his 'boss' voice, "Yes. He didn't know she'd been kidnapped, and as soon as he did, he told us everything. She'll need a lawyer there. He can take it all and start going through it while she's recovering."

"Whatever." He took a huge bite of grilled fish. I remember being his age and seeming to never be full no matter how much I ate.

"I'll let her know about the meeting before we go. Don't want to keep her out of it. Dai's handing off his entire syndicate to her."

Ritsu-sama snorted, "Good idea."

The conversation died down as some went for seconds. I leaned back and took in the unusual mix of people.

The Morinozuka's, along with their oldest, had invited Arissa-sama to join them. The mothers are sitting together on one side of the table. Arissa-sama looks lost, but Umeko-sama's just chatting away.

Ootori-sama and his detail head claimed one of the other large tables. Must be waiting on someone.

.

I can't believe I have to put up with that asshole, Ootori. I can't believe he's doing human things. First, he gets us a helicopter so I can follow Bu. Then the food. And then the hotel room.

If his guards had been there, would it have happened?

Shit.

Hikaru and Kaoru must have gotten here a while ago because they aren't eating. Just messing around on their tablets. Probably answering some of the hundreds of emails we've all gotten. I just deleted mine. Fuck everyone. If they're important, I'll talk to them in person.

The barista delivered another round to Yuki and Akito-san, and she gripped the cup like it was a lifeline. I heard her mumbling about crowded coffee shops when they walked in. Of course, they're fucking crowded. Every reporter in Tokyo must be around here.

"Ritsu?"

"Yeah, Pops?"

He leaned closer so no one else could hear, "You realize why it can't be you accepting the syndicate for Shinobu-chan, right?"

"Yeah." Can't let anyone else know we're married, so Junto-san's got to do it. "But it sucks."

"Maybe you shouldn't have gotten married then."

"No fucking way. Best decision of my life."

I hate that smirk. Like I've proven him right about something I'd been fighting against.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Haninozuka Suite, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

Kumi'd eaten a few crackers then fallen asleep on the sofa with me. I should have moved her back to bed, but she looked so comfortable lying there using my thigh as a pillow.

I'd been watching the news on mute, reading the captions.

CNN was running a special on human trafficking. Japan only declared human trafficking illegal in 2005? That doesn't seem right. Are the numbers really that high? Are there really that many different NOG's working against trafficking in Japan?

"Yorihisa?" Kumi mumbled as she rubbed her eyes. "What time is it?"

"Almost seven."

She sat up slowly and stood on wobbly legs. "I need some air."

I followed her out to the balcony bringing a fresh glass of ginger ale with me. Her stomach's probably still upset.

When I got out there, she was leaning over the rail slightly, looking down at the sidewalk. "What's wrong?"

"That's Tamaki-kun and Renge-chan headed for the hospital. Maybe we should go as well."

"Do you want to eat breakfast first?"

"No. Ootori-san said the buffet would be there until the girls were released. That's probably where they're going. We'll eat there."

"And Mitsukuni?" Our son stayed in our suite last night. "I know he was up late studying."

"I'll let him know we're going over. He's not mean to me in the morning."

While she woke him up, I confirmed our detail heads and teams were ready to escort us over. It's been a long time since I've been this security conscious.

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, Haninozuka Suite, Hotel Next to Tokyo Main:

I yanked the door open. "What?" And instantly regretted my harsh tone. "Cho-chan, I'm sorry. I didn't know it was you."

"It's alright, Honey-kun. I know you have challenges getting up in the morning."

"I'm only up this early because I have a final right after breakfast."

She came through the door as I backed up. That's when I noticed her dress. Pale pink with a puffy skirt and the cutest short sweater to match. "You're so cute."

"Thank you," she blushed. I love her so much.

If it had been her…I believe I could have killed her captors. Especially if they hurt her like they hurt Haru-chan and Shinobu-chan. And I don't think I would lose any sleep over it either.

"Honey-kun?"

"I'm sorry, Cho-chan. My mind wandered." I gave her my best smile and full attention. "What were you saying?"

"Why don't you get dressed and we'll head over to the hospital for breakfast. The buffet's open, and I think everyone else is already over there."

"Great idea!" and I headed for my room.

.

Sitting down to wait, I replied to a couple of texts from Renge and the twins wondering where I was. Silly. They know what Honey-kun is like in the morning.

Then I made the mistake of checking Haruhi's hashtags on Twitter.

Rumors. Nothing but rumors. Didn't any of these people watch her statement last night. They're still talking like she was trafficked, and Shinobu's responsible. Or that it's Shinobu's fault Haruhi was kidnapped.

But it was, wasn't it?

If they hadn't been together. If they weren't getting that dog groomed.

It could have been any of us. Or one of us could have been taken for ransom and Shinobu caught up in it.

Doesn't it boil down to security?

"I'm ready, Cho-chan!" Honey-kun bounced out of his room carrying his school bag for his accounting final.

He's so cute. And he'd protect me from anything. And I'll never be taken with him by my side.

I grabbed his hand and headed for the door. "Let's go. Yamada and Akatsuka are waiting for us at the elevator."

.

xXx

.

Early Morning, VIP Private Buffet, Tokyo Main:

Just as Yorihisa and I sat down, Sagawa-sensei and Tezuka-sensei came in. "Any news on the girls?"

"No change overnight, Kumi-sama."

"Thank you. Please don't let us keep you from your breakfast."

Sagawa-sensei leaned forward to whisper in my ear, "How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine. Don't worry. I rested well last night until the morning sickness kicked in."

"Let me know if it gets too bad, and I'll prescribe something."

.

The Morinozuka's and Haninozuka's are settled into their breakfast, and Umeko-sama's working to get Arissa-sama talking.

"Now's not the time to pull Yorihisa-sama and Akira-sama aside to discuss Ogata-san."

"No. Let's get breakfast and talk to them after."

Breakfast. Finally. I worked up quite the appetite in the dojo this morning.

I nodded to Teraughi, Numata, Yamada, Tabata, and Akatsuka. Their primaries are sitting around the room, and most of them will be leaving soon for university finals. With the BOS officers outside the door, I'm satisfied with the security for the room.

But I was satisfied with the security that Eiji set up and look what happened.

.

"Hurry up, Kaoru. I can't believe you wanted another breakfast."

"Calm down. Umeko-san and Mori-senpai are still eating. That means Haruhi's either still asleep or alone with Shinobu."

"So?" He started standing up, and I grabbed his arm.

"So, we don't want to disturb her. We'll wait for Umeko-san to leave and follow her back."

"Fine," and he sat down hard and folded his arms in front of him. "Whatever."

"Besides, the guards at the door wouldn't let us in when we got here. They'll probably keep us out until she goes back.

"Too bad they couldn't keep her safe in the pet store," he mumbled and stood up again. "I'm getting a doughnut. Want one?"

"No, thanks."

He's right. If they can keep people out of her hospital room, they should have been able to keep them out of a pet store.

.

"Morimoto."

"Kyoya-sama," I nodded to my boss as I joined him and Tachibana with my breakfast.

"Tachibana told me about hiring Ogata. Give me the details.

.

When Satoshi and I got here, I sent him on to the buffet telling him I needed to check in with security.

And I did.

Two BOS guards each were outside both Haruhi and Shinobu-senpai's rooms. There were guards at the elevator. Guards at the emergency stairs.

It still didn't seem like enough.

One of the guards on Haruhi's door recognized me from the warehouse yesterday and let me quickly check on her. She was alone and asleep. So was Shinobu-senpai. And her dog.

I asked for an overnight status and was told about the reporters in the emergency room, but that nothing happened on this floor. Both girls were quiet all night.

I know what happened with Haruhi and Ootori-san, so I don't think much of him as a person, but I approve of his guards. Even if Mitsukuni and I could take on an entire battalion together.

And now I'm sitting here trying to choke down breakfast.

My dreams are still haunting me. Haruhi dead. The rescue not coming fast enough and breaking in just as she was killed. Takashi running to her, holding her, and me just standing there. Not getting to tell her goodbye. Not getting to tell her how I feel, what she means to me. Not getting to talk to her again.

I woke up feeling like I was dying inside.

She's the ward of the Morinozuka's. She's friends with the Haninozuka's, Hitachiin's, Suoh's, Ootori's, Cho's, Houshakuji's, Kasanoda's, and Himura's. She should be untouchable.

But they got to her. Took her from a damn pet store.

And she disappeared for almost thirty-four hours.

The worst thirty-four hours in all our lives.

It should never have happened.

IT SHOULD NEVER HAVE HAPPENED!

Oshiro fired Miwa. I haven't seen Kono since the warehouse. But neither of them works in a vacuum. Both have supervisors and security heads over them.

How could a simple protection job go so horribly wrong?

I heard the door open and looked up to see Eiji roll into the room.

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

Lots and lots of questions about security. Now that the girls are done with surgery and on the road to recovery, everyone's starting to ask questions. Everyone's starting to second guess.

So, no one can sleep, and they all end up at the breakfast buffet…

And Eiji rolls in…

.

Next Chapter:

Something that's been brewing for days…and the aftermath…Dai hands off his syndicate…Haruhi gets some visitors…police come for interviews…another update on Yoshio's room…And Haruhi's agent gets his chance…

Plus, a little fluff…you've earned it.

.

Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Ouran High School Host Club. I also do not own, nor am I making any money from, the following: Olympics, Lego, any real restaurant, business, artist, food product, movie, game, location, or really anything else that exists. I do, however, own any original characters and the plot of this story.