The Painful Truth

by MollyMuffinHead

Sequel to 'The Challenges Ahead'. After the Olympic Games and the Charity Ball, each of the group learns a painful truth they must face. Life will be harder than they ever thought. From kidnapping, to wedding contracts, to losing touch with reality, everyone is in for a bumpy ride. Rated for Language and Smooching and Violence.

12. Chapter 12 - Match to a Flame

Author's Note:

Welcome back to the 6th installment of "The Last Straw" series, or what has turned into the Ouran Soap Opera.

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

Been building to this chapter for a while. Hope I did it justice…

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xXx

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Date Posted: January 14, 2023

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Painful Truth - Chapter 12: Match To a Flame

.

Wednesday, September 28 (Continued):

Morning, VIP Private Buffet, Tokyo Main:

I carefully balanced my plate of grilled fish and a third cup of coffee as I wound my way through the tables back to mine. Cho-sama's got another final this morning, so I want to be fueled up and ready.

She and Mitsukuni-sama are sitting over by his parents, and they look tired. I'm pretty sure Mitsukuni-sama was up late studying for his final. Akatsuka and I will drive them over to the university together and both teams will work to manage the press and other students. Good thing university security will already have the campus shut down from the press. We'll only be dealing with them driving in and out.

"Yamada?"

I looked over at Tabata at the next table. He's drinking juice. How can he get by without coffee? "Yes?"

"Tamaki-sama has a final this morning too. Can he ride in your limo?"

"Sure. You can add his team's cars to the motorcade." They'll need to come too. All three of their finals are in different buildings. "Akatsuka's down in the parking garage getting the cars ready."

"Thanks. I'll text him."

I finished off my fish and leaned back in my seat. This security shakeup will be interesting. I have a couple ideas. I hope Ogata-sama will be open to hearing them.

"How could you let this happen?"

My eyes tracked to the front of the room, and I saw Yasuchika-sama standing, glaring at Eiji who'd just rolled in.

I think he asked the question we all want an answer to.

.

The PR group's sitting at the large table near the entrance, so I'd looked up as Eiji-san's wheelchair entering the room caught my attention, and I heard Yasuchika-sama's question.

It's a question all PR heads and spokespeople have been dodging for the last day or so. Fortunately, as the BOS PR head, I've only had to answer questions regarding the rescue, not how this whole mess started in the first place.

"There were two details there, Yakuza and Morinozuka. I wasn't."

Wrong answer. Junto-sama was at the next table, and I heard him growl.

It was like someone struck a match and tossed it at a gas leak.

"You told me you had her covered." The Morinozuka heir was on his feet, fists clenched at his sides. "I trusted you. I put her life in your hands."

His father reached out and tried to pull him back into his seat. Didn't work.

"And you told me you had her covered," his younger brother yelled at him from his table two rows away. "You told me she was safe. Taka, you told me you took care of it." His arms swung around, taking in the whole room. "Look where she is now!"

"Satoshi," Akira-sama barked, "sit down. You're out of line. This was not your brother's fault."

"You're right," Takashi-sama mumbled from his place next to his father. "I did tell you that."

Satoshi-sama sat down hard in his chair, crossing his arms in front of his chest. The older two slowly sat down.

Things were quiet again when Eiji-san spoke up. "If I had been there, this wouldn't have happened." He slammed his fist on the armrest of the wheelchair, "But I'm stuck in this stupid chair thanks to Koko."

"So, it is your fault," the angry twin yelled across the room.

Just as Renge-sama said, "You're going to blame the cat for this?" Her tone was sarcastic and full of anger. Eiji-san shrunk back from it.

Several murmurs of agreement filled the room. Not sure if they were agreeing that it was Eiji-san's fault or the cat's.

I jumped when Morimoto-sama's chair scraped against the floor as he stood up. "This was a security breakdown throughout. It must be investigated."

"Easy for you to say," Fujii-san yelled from the table next to me. "None of your people were in it."

"None of yours either," was Morimoto-sama's response.

They both stood there glaring at each other until Haninozuka-sama spoke up. "Didn't a group of guards from each of the families take a PPD course from the BOS?"

I saw the four detail heads present nod quietly. I don't blame them for not saying anything. I wouldn't want to get in the middle of this either. Eiji-san, however, did answer, "My entire team did before the Olympics."

"Sounds like your people don't know what they're doing, Ootori."

Ootori-sama glared back at Ryuu-sama. "I'd watch my mouth if I were you." It's almost surreal seeing a teen face down the biggest yakuza boss in Japan. But we are talking about Ootori-sama. He's been named one of the top five richest men in Japan. Ryuu-sama didn't make that list.

"He does bring up a point, Ootori-sama." Ishikawa frowned from the next table over, "Just how good are your instructors?"

.

I felt Numata bristle next to me, and I found offence as well. We're both Ootori BOS guards and have worked our way up to detail heads. Akito-sama's never even been close to danger.

Except when he was shot.

Shit.

"There's nothing wrong with the course," Morimoto-sama shot back. "Perhaps your guards weren't taking it seriously."

Oshiro-sama threw his napkin down on the table, his face red with rage. "How dare you."

Ishikawa-sama turned and pointed at Numata, "There must be something wrong with your training. He's the third detail head Yuki-sama's had in six months."

I guess Tachibana-san was trying to protect his boss. He looked over at Junto-sama from across the room. "Your guards also failed, so it wasn't the instruction."

That's when Hibino-sama stood, spilling his coffee as he jostled the table. "My guards are under arrest for their fuck up."

"And we fired Miwa," Eiji said, glaring at Tachibana.

But Hibino-sama couldn't let that go. "And yet, Eiji, you're still here."

You could have heard a pin drop.

The other detail heads and guards I've talked to all wonder why Eiji's still around. I heard that Oshiro-sama's going to let Haruhi-sama decide if he should stay. That's inappropriate. She's not qualified to make that decision.

He turned and took a breath, but we never heard what he was going to say.

"ENOUGH!" Ishikawa-sama roared. "It happened. We need to know how."

That's when what had to be Hikaru-sama stood up and yelled across the room, "This is all your fault, Ootori!"

Everyone's head swiveled towards Ootori-sama and his table. I'll give him credit, he only raised an eyebrow and flashed his glasses.

"If you hadn't given Haruhi that dog company she would never have been at the groomers. It's all your fault."

Wait. What?

Ootori-sama simply blinked slowly and gave a small sigh.

"Hikaru," Ritsu-sama stood, "I know we both hate Ootori, but that's just stupid."

I saw many people nodding around the room and a few whispers asking why they would both hate Ootori-sama, including Yuki-sama asking Akito-sama.

"Do you know why they hate him?" Numata whispered next to me.

"No idea." I shrugged, "Must be from before Akito-sama became part of the group."

"You're not making any sense, so sit down and be quiet." Ritsu-sama sat down again, "You're not helping."

I watched Ootori-sama for any reaction to the announcement that people in the room hated him. None. I guess he's used to it.

The other twin had been following the conversation like a tennis match. He finally shrugged and pulled Hikaru-sama down into his seat. I couldn't hear what he said, but I'm a decent lip-reader. 'What the fuck, Hika?' The angry one just shook his head and pouted.

.

When I signed on to be Yuki-sama's detail head, it didn't sink in that the entire group consisted of teenagers. It's like being in a soap opera. I might be too old for this shit.

Apparently, Yasuchika-sama wasn't done. "Haruhi would have taken her security more seriously if she'd been told about the letters. I never approved of keeping that from her."

"The BOS also recommended telling her," Morimoto-sama said before finishing off his coffee and reaching for the carafe to pour another.

Oshiro-sama didn't take the insult to his decision well. "It wasn't the letters that caused the kidnapping. The decision to tell her or not is irrelevant."

"It was a security decision," Eiji glared at Yasuchika-sama. "I'm her detail head. I decide what's best for her. She's my responsibility," he pointed at his chest. "Haruhi-sama's too sensitive to be shown those letters. I was protecting her from the ugliness out there."

From the next table over, I saw Ishikawa-sama lean closer to Oshiro-sama. "I told you he was getting too close to her."

Oshiro-sama nodded. "Yes. He is."

That loud-mouth twin wasn't done either. "It's all my fault," he wailed. "I sat in that mansion playing fucking video games and eating and doing nothing." He threw his arms out, "We all did nothing. We all just sat there!"

Satoshi-sama turned in his chair to face him. "It was the right thing to do."

"No, it wasn't"

"Yes, it was." He rolled his eyes. "We aren't the experts. We would have only been in the way."

The twin's voice just got louder. "We could have done something."

"No, we couldn't."

"Yes, we could."

"No, we couldn't." Now they're both yelling.

"Yes, we…"

Suddenly, a high-pitched whistle split the room. We all turned to stare at Renge-sama as she lowered her fingers from her mouth. She matched their volume, "Shut up!" then lowered her voice several notches, "this isn't helping."

"He started it."

"Hika…"

"Whatever," and he plopped back down in his seat.

Satoshi-sama sat down slowly, not taking his eyes off the twins.

.

I thought things might be calming down when my primary opened his mouth. "It wouldn't have been so bad if Yuki hadn't leaked it to the media."

I shook my head. Tamaki-sama never did know when to keep quiet.

"I'm so sorry," Yuki-sama cried. She reached for some napkins and hid her face in them.

Akito-sama came around from his side of the table, sat next to her, and pulled her face to his chest. "Yuki didn't leak it. Her security did." Tamaki-sama shrank back from his glare. "And it being leaked has nothing to do with the kidnapping itself."

"It didn't start it, but she sure made a mess of it."

Akito-sama's glare turned icy. "You didn't hear me, Karou. It was her security, not Yuki-chan."

By this time, she was practically sobbing though he was doing his best to calm her down. He'd pulled her onto his lap and was rubbing her back. "It's alright, Yuki. It's not your fault. Nothing is your fault."

I completely agree. She's one of the few completely innocent people in the room.

"Yet another security fuckup."

"Satoshi," his mother gasped, "watch your language."

"But it is, mother. Another in a very long list."

I'd been watching Haruhi-sama's PR agent off and on. He's been getting redder and redder, trying to find the right time to break in. "If you all had told me what was going on, I could have been out in front of all this mess." Guess he couldn't wait any longer. "But I was excluded from everything just because I'm new to the dynamic and put a few noses out of joint by being brought in."

"What does it matter," Hara-san signed. "The media was going to find out anyway and we're dealing with it. At least we know how it got started."

"Why couldn't you control it? Where were your sources?" Tamaki-sama again. I think Renge-sama's enjoying this too much to stop him.

"Control Twitter? Control the internet?" Hara-san tossed her head back and threw her arms up. "Sure. I can control the internet. It's easy." She turned her attention towards Takashi-sama. "The real problem happened when Yamamoto told his husband, and he turned around and sold the rescue and trafficking to the media."

Well, that got everyone's attention.

"Are you shitting me?"

"Where is he?"

"Yamamoto's gay?" Leave it to Tamaki-sama to miss the point.

Takashi-sama cleared his throat. "Yamamoto was my fault, and although it doesn't solve the problem, he and his husband have been dealt with."

"What does that mean, 'dealt with'," Hibino-sama asked.

"Terminated."

"Didn't think you had it in you."

Ryuu-sama rolled his eyes, "He means fired."

"Oh."

"It doesn't matter," Akira-sama shook his head, "the leak had nothing to do with the kidnapping."

"Maybe not," her agent spoke up again, "but it's making the aftermath a whole lot harder."

.

That's when the girl dressed in pink leaned closer to the little blond boy and said, "This is crazy. Can you stop this before it goes too far."

"It will be alright, Cho-chan. It needs to happen. We need to clear the air so we can all move forward. But don't worry," he took her hand and squeezed it, "if things get really bad, there's plenty of security here. We can stop it."

"I hope so. They're all so angry. It would be easy for someone to say something horrible."

She's right. As a lawyer, that's what I'm usually hoping for. Someone getting so angry they say something incredibly stupid. But that's probably not something I should wish for here. We've got two yakuza heads in the room, my boss and Ryuu-sama. Plus, their heads of security. Plus, a lot of other guards. I know some of them are armed. We don't need this to spiral out of control.

"If they hadn't been getting the dog washed, Haruhi would never have been kidnapped." I'm not sure that one twin knows how to keep his mouth shut. He'd be a perfect witness to tear apart on the stand.

"Oh, so by that logic, it's my fault because I gave Bu the fucking dog?"

"First the cat, and now you're blaming the dog?" That's Renge-sama, one of the few names I know. She's got a level head on her.

"Shut up!" Ryuu-sama yelled. Then he pointed directly at Oshiro-san. "Why were you so focused on the letters for so long? It was obvious it wasn't because of them."

Oshiro-san went red, and his forehead creased. He turned on Hibino-san, "Why didn't Kono say anything sooner?"

"Kono didn't know. She didn't tell him."

Ryuu-sama wasn't done. "Why the fuck didn't your lawyer tell you what she was up to, Junto?"

"She hired him directly after turning eighteen. He couldn't tell me."

"Bullshit."

All the cups and glasses on our table clattered when Ritsu-sama slammed his fists down. "It doesn't fucking matter about the fucking lawyer. Bu met with that hacker in private twice with Kono outside the fucking door, and he doesn't even think to say anything until after you talk to her lawyer."

"Why didn't you know, Ritsu-senpai?" the youngest Morinozuka asked. "You're her fiancé."

The Haninozuka mother surprised me when she spoke up. Must have surprised everyone else too because the room fell silent. "This was a yakuza issue. Should our families be associated with yours? Haruhi wouldn't have been there otherwise."

The little blond boy turned on her, "Now you're telling us who we can't be friends with?"

"I only have your best interests at heart."

"I'm an adult, Mother. I'm the heir."

Bullshit. That little kid is the Haninozuka heir?

"I know what my best interests are."

"He's right, Mother." It was quiet, but it cut through the room like a knife. I thought that kid with the glasses was the heir. So, he's younger?

.

Aoi and I just looked at each other in shock. This entire morning has been one blow after another. Yamamoto was responsible for the leak? And he was fired? No wonder I haven't seen him since yesterday.

I never thought the Haninozuka boys would speak to their mother like that. Kumi-sama has a point. Should all these families really be involved with the yakuza?

I jerked back to the present at Umeko-sama's voice. "How could you raise your daughter to think she could take on something like that on her own?" She was glaring at Arisa-sama, Shinobu-sama's mother.

With more dignity than expected, she sat up straight, pushed her shoulders back, and managed to look down her nose at Umeko-sama. "She was raised a yakuza heir, not a yakuza wife. And I'm proud of her and why she did what she did."

"Ryuu-sama. Junto-sama." That's Ootori-sama's detail head. Tachibana, I think. "You called all yakuza heads and every one of them denied knowing anything. Is that reasonable?" He tapped his fingers on the table. "Those brothels were all over Tokyo."

The two yakuza heads looked at each other. "We have a problem."

"We'll discuss it later."

"Sounds like a big problem," Akito-sama said. Yuki-sama has finally stopped crying and is watching the conversation with red-rimmed eyes.

"And we will address it, but not now." With that tone, it isn't hard to realize why he's the head of the biggest yakuza in Japan.

"It's your fault," Umeko-sama pointed at Junto-sama. I heard Aoi gasp quietly next to me. "You should have known what your daughter is up to. I know everything Haruhi does."

"I don't keep track of every little thing Shinobu does. She's eighteen."

"Maybe you should, because it's her fault."

.

"She's right," I said as Haruhi and I walked into the room, me limping and holding on to her left shoulder. "It is all my fault."

And the room went absolutely silent.

Their yelling woke both of us up. Me first. I've always been a light sleeper when I'm not in my own bed. We decided to put a stop to this before it got out of hand.

If only I had my gun.

Almost everyone stood up as soon as they realized we'd walked in.

"I don't regret what I went through. I'd do it again a dozen times over for those women and girls. But," I turned to look at the tiny girl next to me, "I don't know if Haruhi will ever forgive me."

Her strong, decisive voice filled the silence. "I already have."

And with that one sentence, she showed the entire room what an amazing person she is. Loyal. Understanding. Brave. And pure.

We don't deserve her.

"Haruhi?"

She looked over at Mori-senpai and gave him a small smile. Probably the best she can do with those bandages on her face.

Then she swept the rest of the room. "Don't you all have school?"

"We're taking the week off." Hikaru started walking towards her. "We want to spend it with you."

"Oh, hell no." I took a step closer to him and stared him down. "We need some quiet around here. And that means you all need to go back to Ouran and Todi."

"Does that mean me, you crazy chick?"

I managed to stop my eye roll. "No, Asshole. You stay."

Then Haruhi demonstrated why she's not only the glue that holds us all together, but the one we all listen to. "But the rest of you need to go to school." They all stared at her. "Now!"

That got them moving.

"Alright, everyone," Renge clapped her hands, "text your maids and have your uniforms delivered to the hotel. Let's all get back there and get changed."

We stepped away from the door to let them out, but Renge stopped and quietly asked Haruhi, "Are you going to be OK?"

It took her a second. She looked around the room at all the kids in the group, at the parents, at the guards, then back at Renge. "Yes, I think I am."

Once they were all out the door, I was swept off my feet. Literally.

"Come on, you crazy chick. You shouldn't be walking."

I looked over his shoulder and saw Mori-senpai helping Haruhi with her IV stand to follow us.

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xXx

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Morning, Heading back to Hotel next to Tokyo Main:

Four different protection teams flanked us as we walked back to the hotel. Some guards had gone ahead to clear the walkway between the second floors of each. Our detail heads insisted we use it this time. It's for the best. Without Tamaki-kun here, I feel a little exposed.

I just finished texting my maid when Satoshi asked, "Were you serious blaming Ootori because he gave her Petto Chinmi?"

"No," Hikaru ran his hands through his hair. How does he manage to make it look that good messed up? "Not really. I mean, sure, they wouldn't have been grooming the dog, but they could have been anywhere together."

He started stomping. "Jerk just makes me so mad sometimes I want to rip his face off."

Two months ago, I would have agreed. But he's going to be Tamaki-kun's best man. They're best friends. If Haruhi can let go enough for that, I decided to try as well. It hasn't been easy.

"You're just frustrated because there was nothing we could do."

"Damn straight, little brother. I just wish…"

"Stop." I might not be able to kill this stupid idea of his, but I can try. "We're all students. None of us has the right training. We did what we were supposed to do. Sit back, stay safe, and let the professionals do their jobs."

.

"Whatever."

But I know she's right. Doesn't stop me from wishing I did more. I'll call the doc after classes today. He can make my thoughts make sense.

"Yuki-senpai?" She didn't answer, but Satoshi went on anyway. "None of this is your fault."

"He's right." Renge reached out to touch her arm, and I saw her tremble. "I love Tamaki-kun more than anything, but we all know he can be an idiot sometimes. Whether he meant it or not, he was wrong. Completely wrong."

"Yeah," Kaoru shook his head, "I was wrong too. Guess I'm as big an idiot as the boss."

"Only sometimes," Renge grinned at him. "But yes, this time you were."

"Thank you for saying that." Yuki's voice was soft but didn't shake. "But I did say her name loud enough for some of the people in the park to hear."

"So what?" By now, Renge had her arm around her. "No matter how you see it. No matter what anyone says, it was Tani's fault. And he was fired for it."

"Good riddance."

"Yeah, but he's not the only one that fucked up." I could feel the anger coming back and let it. "You heard that head of the BOS. Security breakdown," I huffed. "Administrative speak for clusterfuck."

We stepped out of the elevator and Satoshi fished his keycard out of his pocket. "We're going to see some major changes in security in the next few weeks and months. There's no way Ishikawa, Oshiro, and all the rest of them will let it be."

"What about Eiji?"

Good question, little brother. And one that I've been asking myself over and over.

"I'm not sure," Renge said as she opened her door. "Haruhi didn't even look at him just now."

"He might not have been there, but he's in charge of her detail." Satoshi stepped into his room. "I'm interested to see what happens." And the door closed behind him.

.

Once Hika and I were alone in our room, he started yelling. "Can you believe Haruhi forgave Shinobu? Just like that," he snapped his fingers. "I'm not even sure she apologized to her."

"It's Haruhi. What do you expect?"

"Anger. We've all seen her get really pissed. I know she's capable. How is she not angry!? She wasn't even part of all that shit."

"All that shit, is precisely why she forgave her."

"What the fuck are you talking about?" He sat down on the bed and glared at me.

"Think, Hika. Why were they taken in the first place?" When he just sat there, I plowed on. "Shinobu was taking down a human trafficking ring. Once Haruhi found out why, I'm sure she supported her one hundred percent. She would have been proud to."

"Fuck." He flopped back on the bed and stared at the ceiling. "You're right."

"Yeah."

That's when our maids arrived with our uniforms.

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xXx

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Morning, Limo on the way to Todi:

Honey-kun's head was in his textbook. I think he's more worried about his accounting test than he needs to be.

So, I decided to tackle Tamaki.

"You realize it isn't actually Yuki's fault, right?" He looked at me with his clueless eyes. "And no one can control the internet, right?"

"But my darling friend was taken, and it was Shinobu's fault."

I chose to ignore him blaming Shinobu. I mean, she just admitted it was her fault.

"Which has nothing to do with the media."

I saw the wheels turning faster.

"Tamaki, we, individually and as a group, have been dealing with the media for years. It's a runaway train. Always has been. Always will be. You know that."

His head fell forward into his hands. "I guess. It's just so frustrating what they're saying about her."

Here's where I land my final point. "Don't you own a newspaper?" He looked up, gleam in his eyes. "Change the narrative."

.

xXx

.

Phone call between Akito and Fuyumi:

Fuyumi: "Everything alright?"

Akito: "That's my line, but yes, everything is fine. Nothing new on their health status except they're both up and moving around which is a good thing." I took another drink from my water bottle. Had to switch from coffee. "How are you and the baby?"

Fuyumi: "We're fine. Sota's fine." He can't fool me. "What's really wrong?"

Akito: "It's Yuki-chan."

Fuyumi: "What happened?"

Akito: "There was a big fight this morning. Everyone was in the buffet room, and it was like someone lit a fire. Some of the things definitely needed to be said, and it's better to get it all out sooner rather than later. But Tamaki blamed Yuki-chan for the leak and making the whole thing a big mess."

Maybe I should switch back to coffee.

"She cried, Fuyumi. He made Yuki-chan cry."

Fuyumi: "Akito, she's exhausted. You all are. Her emotions are raw and at the surface. Anyone would have been set off by that accusation."

Akito: She's right. I know she is. As an almost doctor, I know she is. But this is Yuki-chan.

"Haruhi sent them all back to Ouran. She and Shinobu want some peace and quiet."

Fuyumi: "Good idea. How can they recuperate with that crazy group there all the time?"

Akito: "I didn't want Yuki-chan to go. Not yet. Ouran's going to be insane with all the students crowding them, asking about it."

Fuyumi: "She'll be fine. Numata's there with her. He'll keep them under control."

Akito: "Yeah. And Renge said she'd stick close to her."

Fuyumi: "Then you're worrying over nothing." I looked over at the clock on the wall. "Don't you have a test."

Akito: "We're pulling up to the building now. Got to go."

Fuyumi: "Good luck."

.

xXx

.

Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

I followed Ritsu and Shinobu back to her bed. As soon as she was tucked in, she looked up at me through her lashes. Don't think I've ever seen her shy before.

"You really forgive me?"

"Of course. Shit happens." That got a snort from Ritsu and a quiet gasp from Takashi. You'd think with the language the rest of them use, they wouldn't be surprised when I use a word or two. "And, you were doing what was right."

"Thanks."

I nodded and reached for her arm. "Are we going to be OK?"

"Yeah. Sure."

"No," I looked her eye to eye and tried to show her how serious I am. "Are we going to be alright?"

She turned her hand over, laced our fingers, and heaved a big sigh, "We're going to work on it. We'll get there."

I nodded again. "Better answer."

.

xXx

.

Morning, VIP Private Buffet Room, Tokyo Main:

"I really should go with the Young Lord."

"Sit," Ryuu-sama barked and pointed to a chair. "He's a big boy, Tetsuya. Plus, there are four guards on their door, more on the elevator, and Morinozuka-san is in the room with them. Nothing's going to happen."

I took my seat and stared into my coffee. I feel out of place here with nothing to do.

"There," Junto-sama set down his phone. "I texted her lawyer. He'll meet us there when we meet Dai."

"Good. You're her father, but she's eighteen. I think you should have him hand it over to the lawyer as her representative. Not you."

Ryuu-sama has a point, but it took several minutes for Junto-sama to agree. "Fine. Presents her more as the boss rather than the heir. Good first impression."

"Now that that's decided, anyone have any ideas how no one knew what Daiju was up to?"

.

xXx

.

Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

So quiet.

Once I got Haruhi back in bed, she dozed off, so I sat down next to her and pulled out my phone.

But I can't concentrate on these emails.

I studied the girl that means more to me than anything else in this world. Bandages on her face. Bruises where the bandages don't cover. Hand wrapped.

I want to hide her away forever. Never let her out of my sight. Never worry again about her safety because she's where no one can get to her.

And I had to find out I don't know everything she's doing and everywhere she goes through social media when that Go salon was identified. The way Hara-san handled it, I don't believe she'd only been there once like she said when the picture was first posted.

She lied to me. How can I protect her when she keeps things from me.

"I need to use the restroom." Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Ritsu help Shinobu out of bed and start slowly across the room.

How can Haruhi forgive her just like that?

I blinked several times when I realized I'd been staring at her, and my eyes had gone dry.

Why would I even ask that question?

Haruhi forgives her friends. Just look at how she's treating Ootori. How she forgave the twins and Tamaki after they dislocated her shoulder.

She does set new boundaries after forgiving someone. Like with Kaoru and her new agent. But the likelihood of her being kidnapped with Shinobu again is zero, so she'll probably just forgive her outright.

And want to help finish taking down the trafficking ring.

And that's where I draw the line. She will not be allowed to participate in anything else having to do with trafficking. Too risky.

Too risky for my best friend. Too risky for my girlfriend.

.

xXx

.

Moring, VIP Private Buffet Room, Tokyo Main:

I called the rest of the security heads over to our table at the request of Kyoya-sama. He wanted to hear everyone's take on the security review. And since the BOS is hiring Ogata-san, he'll probably be reporting to me.

Since he had specific concerns, Kyoya-sama ran the meeting.

"When are you meeting with Ogata-san?"

"Oshiro and I have an appointment Tuesday afternoon."

"I want to be there. If the BOS is going to be the official hiring organization, I want him to know that from the start."

"That's no problem," Ishikawa said, "but don't you need to return to Stanford?"

Kyoya-sama started tapping his fingers on the table. "I'm taking my classes remotely until this situation is stable."

"In that case, we should start a list of issues that most concern us for the meeting." Ishikawa pulled out his phone and stylus.

"I agree. First on my list is Eiji." Those fingers tapping are starting to bother me. He's never edgy. "He's too close to Haruhi. And he put together an inferior team."

"He won't be an issue next week. We're dealing with him before then."

"Dealing how?"

"Unknown right now."

I broke in before it turned into an argument. "More concerning is Kono not speaking up. He was at the pet store too."

Hibino assured us he'd be handled this week too.

"Anything that won't be handled before the meeting?"

"How about how none of the yakuza knew what Daiju was doing?"

.

xXx

.

Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

As soon as Ritsu closed the bathroom door and I was alone, I lost it.

Those last two raids too late. Twenty-nine girls dead because I got careless. Because I only had one hacker on the project. Because my security failed.

Can't cry. Too much pressure in my head. I'll fuck up my eye.

But the tears keep coming.

Twenty-nine girls.

.

xXx

.

Morning, VIP Private Buffet Room, Tokyo Main:

When Arisa-san left to join Junto-san, without even a word, we invited Kumi and Yorihisa over to our table.

I suppose I was hard on her and Junto-san, but we were talking about my daughter…ward. I'd do anything to protect Haruhi-chan.

"That was tense," Kumi said as she sat down. No coffee for her with the pregnancy. Boba milk tea which I assume is herbal.

"Yes, it was." Akira studied my face for a moment. "Did you get it all out?"

Did I? I think I still want another couple rounds with them. It is their daughter's fault this happened. "No."

"You're going to have to let it go." He leaned forward. "With what the two girls went through together, they'll probably become even closer."

"I'm not sure how I feel about that."

"I agree," Kumi mumbled around her straw. "I'm still not convinced the group should be associating with yakuza at all, no matter what my boys say."

"Mitsukuni is my heir. We have to trust him to make the right decisions for the family."

"To a certain extent," she huffed.

"No," Yorihisa set his chopsticks down, "you either trust our son or you don't. He's twenty years old and talking about marriage. He's not a child anymore, no matter his size."

"Besides," I jumped in, "the group is linked through On Okuri. We can't ask them to walk away from that. It's too important to them."

Kumi glared at me, "It's still that girl's fault Haruhi-chan was kidnapped."

"I'm not disputing that, but if Haruhi-chan can forgive her, we have to at least be civil to her and her parents."

.

xXx

.

Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

Shit.

She's been crying. My badass wife was crying in the bathroom.

I'll ignore it. She wouldn't want to talk about it in front of Mori-senpai and maybe not even Haruhi.

Once I got her back in bed, I went to the window to give her some time to calm down. Guess maybe I'm getting better at reading chicks.

Nah, just her.

I'd glanced over at Haruhi when I helped Bu into bed. Mori-senpai's hovering. Like, really hovering. He better not fuck it up again. Haruhi's a good person, but you don't want to make the same mistake with her more than once.

Some clouds moved slowly past the window. That one looks like a gun.

The hacker. Bu hired him without knowing anything about him but an email address. No names. She even set up his bank account for him, though she said she mostly paid him in cash.

I know she feels like shit about him. Was that why she was crying?

Got to find out who he is.

Guess I'll suck it up and ask Ootori for help.

Fuck.

.

xXx

.

Morning, PR Offices, Tokyo Main:

"Ready for this?"

"Definitely." I lead the way from the offices to the press conference. This will be Hara-san's last appearance at one. Endo-san isn't here. Matsushita, the Hospital PR head will stand next to me, but I'll be answering the questions.

It's time the press knew who was in charge.

"Good morning. I'm Fujioka Haruhi's agent, Inokuma Yozo."

Lots of hands shot up, but I ignored them.

"Fujioka-san and Himura-san are both doing well after a good night's rest. They again ask for privacy as they recover from their injuries and ordeal.

"They also request that instead of gifts, please donate to Lighthouse or Kakurega. The trafficking victims need your help.

"I'll again refer you to Deputy Superintendent, Tokyo Metro, Yokota Yasauaki for any questions regarding the rescue, arrests, and raids.

"Any and all future questions and requests of Fujioka-san should be made through my office.

"Thank you."

There. Now they know who's in charge.

"I'll take your questions now."

.

xXx

.

Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

I know Takashi thinks I'm asleep, and I shouldn't hide from him like this, but my mind is a loud place right now. I need some time to think.

But that's the problem. All I've been doing since I woke up in the hospital is think.

I heard quite a bit of that fight. Not sure who whistled, but that's what woke me up. By the time Shinobu and I made it to the door to listen, they were arguing about the letters. I didn't realize Chika wanted me to know.

Sometimes it seems he understands me best out of the group. That I need the truth, no matter what, rather than comforting words. I need to face what's coming rather than let others deal with it for me. That I'm proud of what I've accomplished and am still fighting against being pulled into the coldness of the rich bastard world.

I'm not surprised they were all throwing around blame like a hot potato. But blame doesn't help anything. Responsibility and accountability do. We need to know how it happened, who was responsible, and fix the problem.

One hundred and sixty-one girls. I'm proud to be a part of that, even if all I did was sit in a chair and get stabbed.

I don't want to go through that again though.

So, security needs to figure out how it happened, who was responsible for what, and make sure it never happens again.

That means Eiji.

He was there, right inside the doorway.

I couldn't even look at him.

What happens next?

.

xXx

.

Morning, Various Rooms, Tokyo Main:

"No, Daikichi didn't shoot me. Daiju did."

"But Daikichi-san had the gun."

"He tried to stop Daiju from shooting me and the bullet missed." The detective's eyes flashed to my hip. "He was aiming for my head." He nodded. "Anyway, Daiju's shot didn't kill me, so Daikichi picked up the gun and Daiju headed over to Haruhi."

"And that's when Kasanoda-sama came in and shot Daikichi-san?"

"Yes. That dickhead was holding the gun, so Ritsu thought he shot me."

"Perfectly reasonable assumption. Whether he shot you or not, he was holding a gun, so Kasanoda-sama's shooting was justified."

"Damn straight."

"Alright," he looked at both of us, our mothers…yeah, I've started thinking about Umeko-san as Haruhi's mother…and our lawyers, "just one last question. Did either of you see or hear anything that could indicate other locations or fill in any details about the trafficking network."

"No," Haruhi slowly shook her head. "They didn't say anything in front of me about that. And I was blindfolded until I was put in that room, so I didn't see anything but that."

"Yeah. Same here."

"Then, thank you for your time, Fujioka-sama, Himura-sama." He stood and bowed. Damn. A police detective bowing to me. Did hell just freeze over?

He and the lawyers exchanged cards, he bowed to Umeko-san and Mom, and left.

"That was easier than I thought it would be," Haruhi breathed out a huge sigh.

"Told you."

"The interview was a necessary step in their investigation, Fujioka-sama," her lawyer said as he packed up his briefcase. "But we knew it'd be perfunctory."

"Thank you, Okamoto-san. I appreciate you coming."

"No problem. It's always best to have a lawyer with you when talking to the police, just to be safe."

Once they were gone, Umeko-san tried to bribe Haruhi with strawberries. She hasn't eaten much.

.

"I shot him four times as I ran past. No one shoots my fiancée and lives."

"It was a justified shooting, Kasanoda-sama. No question."

"Thank you," I said before Kasanoda-sama could say something flippant. I've been his lawyer for a while, and I can read the signs. His temper could flare at any moment.

"And you can't tell us anything more about this ring?"

"No. Bu didn't give me any details." We agreed we wouldn't tell the detective he didn't know about her efforts at all. They don't need to know that. The rumors the two of them aren't as close as they seem could hurt both syndicates.

"Then I have everything I need for my report."

He stood up, and I handed him my card. "If there's anything else, please contact Kasanoda-sama through me."

"Of course."

.

"Thank you, Haninozuka-sama. We appreciate your cooperation during this interview."

"You're welcome."

The detective left the room, and I slumped back in my seat.

"He didn't ask about Daiju."

"And you handled that well, Yasuchika."

We decided to only discuss Daiju's death if asked directly. Strange he didn't ask. Who else knew Takashi killed him?

.

"And you knew nothing about this ring until it was discovered that they were the kidnappers."

"Correct."

"And you followed the first wave of Black Onion Squad officers into the warehouse with your primary objective being the safety of Fujioka-sama?"

"Correct."

Here it comes. They'll ask, and I'll have to admit I killed that man.

Wait. He's closing his notebook. And standing.

"I appreciate your time, Morinozuka-sama. I think I have everything I need, but I'll contact your lawyer if I have additional questions."

With a quick bow, he was out the door.

What just happened?

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

"Oh, you poor thing. Does it hurt?"

At least she didn't ask me how I'm doing. "Not as much as it did."

"Well," Manami-san looked around the VIP patient room, "I'm sure you'll be better in no time with such topflight care."

We weren't expecting the Katayama's visit. (I refuse to call them my grandparents.) Downstairs security called up for approval when they arrived. I figured it would be best to get it over with. Any future visits will need preapproval from me through Umeko-san or Honami.

So, here we are.

"I'm so sorry this happened to you." Her glare across the room at Shinobu was pure hatred.

"Yes," Daisaku-san mumbled. "Most unfortunate."

I stood up to the entire country for Shinobu on that TV statement, I sure can do it with these two.

"Shinobu's pursuit to take apart that trafficking ring was honorable. I'm proud I was able to help in whatever small way I might have."

I'm not sure what Shinobu's reaction was. I can't see much with one eye covered.

"Still, Haruhi-chan, you're in the public eye so much, and this will only make it worse. I do hope you are planning to stop modeling and making statements to the press."

"Though it was a good statement," he mumbled again.

"Stop modeling? I hadn't thought about it."

"I just assumed you would with your face and everything."

.

Haruhi reached up to touch her bandages.

Fuck, yeah, I'm listening in. I didn't know she had grandparents. Wonder why they didn't get custody after Ranka died. I'll get the story out of her when they leave.

"One of Tokyo's best plastic surgeons worked on my face. It should be a thin scar. Hardly noticeable."

"Backing away from your fame," he said it like the word was poison, "is necessary. This could all happen again if your security couldn't keep you safe."

Always back to security. I need to talk to Hibino and Kono.

"If I stop living my life, they've won."

"They who?"

"The kidnappers. The media." She shrugged. "Anyone really. I have to be true to myself."

"But…"

"I'm not sure what, if anything, I'll change after this, but whatever it is, it will be my decision."

Damn. They did not like that. Her grandmother looks like she just ate a lemon, and his face turned red. I could almost picture cartoon smoke coming out of his ears.

"But surely your security will insist…"

Umeko-san cut her off, "Morinozuka security will assure her safety, but Haruhi-chan will be involved in all decisions."

Haruhi shot her a grateful look as she politely, but firmly ended the visit.

"I believe it's time for Haruhi-chan's medication and then she needs her rest. Thank you so much for coming all this way to visit."

They both stood. "We'll be back tomorrow, Dear."

"Oh, please, don't go out of your way for me. I'm sure you took time off of work today to come and visit. I don't want you to have to do that again."

"It was our pleasure."

"Yes, but maybe it's best to wait until I'm back at the Morinozuka's and we can schedule something in the evening in a week or two."

"Thank sounds like a wonderful idea," Umeko-san said as she escorted them to the door. She's the perfect high-society woman. Manipulating people with so much sugar they don't even realize it. I could learn a lot from her. Mom's not good at that.

.

I closed the door behind me and stood looking at Haruhi-chan in that big bed.

She still calls the estate the 'Morinozuka's' not home.

What can we do to change that?

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Neutral Location:

"Dai."

"Ryuu-sama. Junto-sama. Thank you for this opportunity."

"Just don't fuck it up."

"I have no intention to." And I don't. I'd be an idiot to cross either of them. All the syndicates in Tokyo would come down on me, and neither I nor my family would live longer than an hour.

"I've announced this change in leadership to the entire syndicate. As we discussed, all members can leave without prejudice if they don't cause trouble."

"As long as they realize taking any syndicate property with them is causing trouble."

"They do, Ryuu-sama. I made sure of it."

"Good. Because you don't want to piss Bu off," Ritsu-sama grinned. "When she's mad, even the fucking demons run for cover."

I've heard she's even more cutthroat than her father…except for this trafficking crusade.

"This is Tamura-san, my second." He stepped forward and bowed. "He'll be assisting in the transition and knows everything about the businesses."

"You and I will be working closely, Tamura-san." Her lawyer handed over his card. "Especially until she's recovered from her injuries."

"My honor, Miyagawa-sama."

"What are your plans after we're finished with the transition?"

"I'm not sure. I'll see you through then discuss it with Himura-sama."

Ryuu-sama's booming voice made me jump. "What's in the boxes, Dai?"

"Top-level management documents. Lists of businesses, real estate, employees, etc. Enough to get you started. The rest is in the main office. Tamura-san will show you."

"I think it's time you left, Dai." Junto-sama had his hand in his coat. Would he really shoot me here?

I'm not waiting to find out. Why tempt fate?

I turned around and headed for my car, trying not to break into a run.

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, SCIF, Black Onion Squad [BOS] Headquarters:

I closed the folder and let it drop on the table. No human remains in the incinerator in that basement.

My legs sagged in relief, and I practically collapsed in my chair.

Finally, some good news coming out of all Yoshio's shit.

Nishimori sat quietly sipping his tea. He's done an exemplary job handling what amounts to years of depravity.

"What about the DVDs?" I hated asking him to do that, but I couldn't face it myself.

He swallowed hard and cleared his throat, "Done. Screenshot of each woman. As suspected, many were in multiple videos."

"How many?"

"How many different women?" I nodded. "Eighty-six."

I wish he was alive so I could kill him again. And again.

.

And now for the bad news. As if what I just said wasn't bad enough.

"Twenty-seven remain unidentified."

The color drained from his face, and I felt Tachibana come to alert behind me. White paint has more color.

"Twenty-seven."

It wasn't a question, so I waited for him to process. His eyes closed, and I could tell he was counting his breaths. It's easy to forget he's only nineteen.

"Facial recognition on all of them. Start with Ootori employees and branch out from there. Morimoto has police contacts. We should be able to run against driver's licenses for the country as a last resort."

"I'll start today."

"Only one tech. Someone from the database team. Someone we trust."

"Yes, Kyoya-sama."

"Update on the seven employees identified by DNA?"

I pushed another folder across the table. "The four that were still employees are in cells downstairs along with the one from Nagoya. The one that left the country has been tracked to Australia. Still nothing on the seventh."

He flipped through the pages, reading the backgrounds on all of them.

I'll never be able to unsee those videos. Never. Even watching them just enough for a screenshot and with no audio, it was horrible.

I had a hard time even looking at my wife after that.

"Nishimori?" I looked up from my tea. "I want you to contact this number," he handed me a card. Ootori Psychological Services? "Find a therapist you can work with. Cost doesn't matter, it will be covered. You've seen more than anyone, and there's no way your mental health hasn't been affected."

I stared at the card for a few moments, trying not to let my eyes tear up. How did he know? Although with what we've all seen, how could he not.

"When you pick one, report the name back to Morimoto." I started to protest, not knowing if they'd report what was said, and he held up his hand. "We only need the name. They'll need to sign an NDA in addition to doctor-patient confidentiality. They'll need to pass a level five background check too. No one will ever ask what's discussed in your sessions."

"Level five? I've never heard of a level five." I thought there were only three.

"It's the highest level." Then he smirked, "You passed it."

No wonder I've got his trust. "Thank you, Kyoya-sama."

"You're a valuable member of Ootori Enterprises, and we take care of our own."

He stood and headed for the door. "Tachibana and I are going down to the cells. Call that number now."

And I did.

.

I flipped the switch, and the speaker went live in all five cells.

"You are here because of the basement.

"You will stay here until I say so."

I flipped it off and left the building.

.

xXx

.

Lunch, Group Text (without Haruhi and Shinobu):

Tamaki: Final went fine. Back at hospital with Honey-senpai and Cho eating lunch. How was Ouran?

Renge: Nightmare every1 asking ? Teachers tried to stop it extra security def needed

Satoshi: same in our class. Chika got a great glare to shut them up

Karou: I just kept asking 'what kidnapping' worked

Satoshi: tried being nice but everyone just stupid

Yuki: very glad for extra security no one would leave us alone

Akito: Numata did a good job?

Yuki: Yes. Felt safe. How was your final?

Akito: Did fine. Glad it's over. Another after lunch

Yuki: Are you eating?

Akito: Yes. Med School café.

Honey: Are you all in the dining hall?

Renge: no no way we were trying that. In Host Club room.

Cho: Good idea.

Chika: any news on Haruhi or Shinobu-senpai?

Cho: nothing new will stop by before heading out to next exam.

Renge: let us know if they need anything

Cho: will do

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Parking Garage, Tokyo Main:

I stopped him before he even got out of the car.

"Eiji, go home."

"But the cast is off. I'm in the walking boot now. I can help."

"Go home."

"But…"

"She wouldn't even look at you this morning."

His whole body slumped. "I know."

"Go home. I'm going to arrange a meeting tomorrow to discuss her team and if it needs restructuring."

"You agreed she'd get to decide if I'll continue to be on it."

"And she will." And I hope she decides against it. "I'll let you know the time."

"Thank you, Oshiro-sama."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

"There she is!"

"Our princess!"

And just like that, the room was filled with drag queens.

Umeko-san warned me they were coming. She thought Haruhi could use a fun visit after the fight, her grandparents…which I still don't have the story on…and the police interview.

She was right. Haruhi's face lit up when they walked in.

"Oh, Darling, that color does nothing for your complexion."

"We brought you some flowers to brighten up your room!" And did they. That's a huge vase full of sunflowers. "And don't worry, we also donated to Lighthouse."

"Thank you so much."

"Now, I'm sure you want to hear all the gossip so…"

And they spilled. Who's dating who. Which waiters stay after their shift to party in the disco. The crazy things they see the people do on the dance floor.

Not one word about the kidnapping or her injuries. Just what she needed. Me, too, I guess.

"Oooo, and the biggest thing that's going on is Dylan."

"Dylan? You mean Takashi's assistant's husband? The kitchen manager?"

"Oh, yes, girl. You won't believe this."

"He was fired."

"Embezzlement."

"And I heard he sold information on the kidnapping and rescue to the media."

SMACK…

"Hey," she rubbed the back of her head, "what was that for?"

"We weren't going to mention what she's been through."

"Kinda hard to talk about him without talking about that."

I don't think I've met Dylan, but I've met Yamamoto. He must have told his husband. He better not have been part of that.

"It's alright." She looked around at all their worried faces, and they slowly relaxed. "What about Yamamoto-san?"

"Oh, child, he had no idea. Can you imagine? Your husband selling your employer's secrets and stealing their money and you don't know."

"I heard they were forced to move out of their apartment."

And, of course, that's when Mori-senpai walked back in.

"Ladies." If that isn't a warning tone, I don't know what is.

I could tell Haruhi wanted to ask him, but not in front of this group of gossipers.

"Anyway…we have to tell you about the new show we're choreographing for the winter."

"And a special one just for New Year's."

.

As soon as they left, I asked Takashi if it was true.

"I'm sorry you had to find out that way." He sat down took my hand. "Yes, it's true."

"So, that dickhead told the media about the rescue and that this all was about trafficking?"

"Yes. He sold the information to multiple media outlets."

"Motherfucker," Shinobu mumbled under her breath. I had to agree.

"And the embezzlement?"

"He's been placing orders that aren't real and paying himself for them."

"How long?"

"Almost since he was hired."

"What's going to happen to them?"

"He's been arrested. Yamamoto was fired. They were removed from their apartment."

"Well, then," I gave him a small smile, "that's it then." He just frowned at me. "It happened. It's too late to do anything except deal with the consequences and move on. And," I leaned forward and stared into his eyes, "it's not your fault, so stop thinking that."

"Haruhi…"

"No. It's not. Besides, if it wasn't him, it would have been someone else. How many people knew about what was going on? If you count all the police and Kyoya-senpai's guards, it had to be over a hundred. It would have been leaked no matter what."

"She's right, Mori-senpai. Get over yourself."

He shut his eyes for a moment then looked at me. "Alright."

"Good. Now how about some pizza?" Shinobu looked over at us with a huge grin.

.

xXx

.

Late Afternoon, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

When I got there, Haruhi-sama was sitting in one of the guest chairs with her feet up. If she's feeling that much better, maybe I can talk her into giving another statement.

"Tokyo Main PR and I just issued another press release."

Damn, she can show a lot of fear in just one eye.

"No new info. Just letting everyone know you both are still recovering and to keep donating to Lighthouse and Kakurega."

She relaxed back into her chair, "Thank you, Inokuma-san."

I sat down and pulled out my tablet. "However, we do need to talk about your future appearances. My office has received hundreds of requests for interviews, talk show appearances, photo ops, product deals, and anything else you can think of. From hard core news shows, to fluff magazines, to the bottom-feeding tabloids."

"I'm not doing any of that."

Umeko-sama nodded in agreement, but I pressed on, "I think that's a mistake, Haruhi-sama, and let me tell you why." I started ticking off on my fingers. "First, if you don't make some kind of appearance, they'll never leave you alone. Second, the rumors run from almost correct to absolutely insane. You can clear those up. Third, you can tell your story and push the focus onto the problem of trafficking and off you."

"I don't want to." She sounded seventeen there. Almost a whine, but not. She looks exhausted.

"I'm sure you don't. But you should think about it."

"What do you suggest she do?"

I leaned back to address both of them. "Pick one from each category. One hard news show to talk about trafficking. Be part of a panel, not the only guest. One teen magazine. Let them know you're alright. That you were proud to help bring this down. And what they can do. One NGO. Do an interview with Lighthouse or Kakurega. Use your fame there to drive up donations."

"And that's it?"

"For now. You'll have to do some fashion interviews once you decide if you'll continue modeling or not. But you'll do those with Hitachiin-san, and he'll do most of the talking."

She gently leaned her head back and closed her eye. "I'll think about it."

"Good. You should do the news one this weekend for the Sunday shows."

"We're not even sure she'll be out of the hospital by then."

"If she is, she should do it."

"What about Shinobu?" And we all looked across the room.

.

Shit.

Should have headed for the bathroom as soon as I saw her agent come in.

"What about me? I'm yakuza. No one wants me on their show."

"On the contrary," he got up and walked over to Mom and me, "I've received almost as many requests for you."

"You? Why are you getting them?"

"Because you don't have an agent, Himura-sama." Oh, that grin is scary. "You need one."

"Me? An agent?"

"Actually, Shinobu, your father and I were going to discuss this with you. You do need one."

"Mother!"

"With your permission, I'd like to help with that."

I looked over at Mom, then I realized he means me. "I'm not doing any of that stuff."

"You make more sense doing it than me," Haruhi called across the room with a smirk. Traitor.

Now they're all staring at me. Where's Asshole when I need him? He could drive them all off with one glare. Or his gun.

"Hey, Bu?" Speak of the devil.

He looked around the room and turned to leave. "Oh, no. Get your ass back in here."

"What?"

"They think I need an agent."

"You do."

"Fuck."

"Yeah."

I glared over at Inokuma-san. "Find me one that has worked with yakuza before."

"I'll have someone for you to meet tomorrow."

.

xXx

.

Late Afternoon, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

"I'm sorry I wasn't able to bring some puppies."

"It's alright," she sighed. "Thank you for coming. It's good to see you."

"It's only a quick visit. I'm sure you need your rest."

I came without checking first. That her security wouldn't let me in didn't even cross my mind. I should be more used to her lifestyle by now.

"Here," I handed her an envelope. "I donated in your name."

May not know her lifestyle well, but I know her enough to know not to show up with a gift. She'd see it as a waste of money.

"Thank you. I'm sure the victims will need it."

Isn't she a victim too? Maybe not of trafficking but look at her. Her face is covered in bandages and her hand is wrapped up. She's wincing in pain every time she moves it. Well, I'm not going to argue the point. It'd just make her mad.

"I sent an email with some links to our puppy videos. We started a TikTok account to increase business."

"I don't have an account."

"You can join and never post or comment. There's some fun stuff out there."

"Maybe…" But I could tell she probably wouldn't. She has enough going on.

"When you get out of here, you've got an open invitation to come and see the puppies anytime. Also, dinner and a movie when you're ready."

She huffed out a small laugh, "We'd be hounded from the moment we stepped out of the car. But you can come to the Morinozuka's for dinner," she looked over at Morinozuka-sama, "if that's alright."

"Of course, it is, Sweetheart. It's your home too." She smiled at me. "We also have a private theater."

What a lifestyle. "Perfect. I'll bring the popcorn."

.

xXx

.

Late Afternoon, Shinobu's Guest Room, Tokyo Main:

"They were into all this shit?"

"Yes, Himura-sama."

What the fuck am I going to do with all this?

Boxes. Miyagawa-san said Dai gave him boxes. And this is just the first folder.

"That's a top summary of their businesses. There are summaries for membership, bank accounts, real estate…"

"Stop." I can't get my head around this. There's too much.

"How much do you know about all this, Tamura-san?" At least Dai gave us his second.

"I'm familiar with the entire syndicate."

I can't do this right now.

I can't see out of my right eye. I've been shot. I can't get those women and girls out of my mind. Sooner or later, I'm going to have to face homework and Ouran again. I've got to figure out what the fuck I'm going to do about Kono. They want me to get a fucking agent. There's a dead hacker and no one knows his name.

And it's all my fault.

And to top it all off, I shit myself. In front of people.

And now I've got to take over the Chiba Syndicate.

I'm just one fucking person, dammit.

They're still waiting for me to decide something.

Alright, Shinobu, be that big, bad, yakuza badass you know you are…

I cleared my throat, "Empty all the bank accounts and start new ones. Put me, Dad, and you Miyagawa as the only ones that can access them."

Gotta lock down the money as fast as possible.

"Get a full accounting of the legit stuff. Taxes, liabilities, assets. Everything. I need to decide whether to sell or not."

My lawyer's pen's flying across his notepad, and I took another drink of water. I'd really like a beer.

Maybe Ritsu can sneak one in when he brings Kasa tonight.

"Separate out the other businesses by type. Drugs, weapons, protection, whatever. I'll be dumping all the drug parts, so get that ready."

Can't believe I convinced Dad not to be in this meeting, but now I wish he was here. No. It would ruin my reputation.

"Get a list and background on all employees and figure out who stayed and why. Those that think they'll get off easy with a woman as their head are in for a big surprise. And those that left, did they take shit with them? Are they going to start some shit?"

I turned to Tamura, "Anyone you've wanted to get rid of, go over why with Miyagawa. If it makes sense, get rid of them."

"And by get rid of, you mean…"

"Do what needs to be done. Fire them, relocate them, or something more permanent if needed." Sometimes a permanent solution is necessary.

"Anything else?"

"Whatever else you think needs to be done to help me make decisions."

"By when?"

"Shit. I have no idea when I'll get out of here." Or when I'll be able to think straight. "Tuesday."

.

xXx

.

Late Afternoon, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

"Haruhi? Osamu-san's here. Would you like to see him before the rest of the group gets here for dinner?"

"Sure." Why not? It's not like I'm getting any sleep around here.

As Umeko-san went back to the door, Takashi double-checked. "He can come back if you'd rather rest."

"No. It's fine." Maybe I'll sleep better tonight if I'm worn out.

"Haruhi, I'm glad you're doing well after your surgeries."

"Thank you."

"I brought you a gift."

.

I opened the box I was holding to show her the chocolate-covered strawberries. "Don't worry. I didn't purchase them. My pastry chef made them."

"They look delicious." Her eyes brightened. I knew they were a favorite of hers. That's why I gave them to her a year ago.

"I also donated to Kakurega in your name. I hope that's appropriate."

She took a strawberry and held it in her good hand. "Yes. That's fine. I know it will be put to good use. The victims need all the help they can get."

"I'm sure they do." What else can I say? This situation was not covered in my etiquette classes.

Mori-senpai glanced at me, and I could see him trying to tell me to let it go.

But what else do I talk about?

.

I can tell Haruhi's getting more and more uncomfortable. She's been playing with that strawberry so much the chocolate has melted all over her fingers.

"Haruhi." I handed her a napkin.

"Oh. I'm so sorry, Osamu. I've ruined your strawberry."

Are those tears?

"It's fine, Haruhi. I'm sure it tastes good, melted chocolate or not."

She brought it to her lips and took a big bite. "Yum. Very good."

"Our pastry chef is French. He only makes the best."

Then we heard a voice echoing down the hallway. "Where's my darling friend?"

"Quiet, Boss. This is a hospital."

"You be quiet you crazy twin. I haven't seen my friend since this morning."

"Looks like the Host Club is going to invade your visit, Osamu."

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

OK, so that fight has been planned since we planned the kidnapping. Dad and I knew they'd need to vent, blame each other, and let it all out. You should have seen the outlines and diagrams it took to get the bouncing around right. I had a layout of the room and everyone's seat assigned so I wouldn't say someone was sitting next to someone and then say they were across the room. It made it easier to picture the tennis match that was the argument.

We also thought we couldn't have such a big event without a little humor. Leave it to Hikaru and Tamaki. Hikaru blaming Kyoya for giving her the company was one of the first parts we thought of. I can picture Kyoya just sitting there, blinking slowly so clearly. I mean, what the hell do you say to something so nutty?

Not sure if you caught it, but until we got to Shinobu, all POVs were 'extras' that didn't say anything. I didn't want to write the thoughts of some of the speakers but not others. That's what the aftermath was for. I tried really hard to make it obvious who was who. Hopefully I did.

Yes, I know I'm making Mori overprotective again. Do you really think he wouldn't be? It's only been a couple of days even if we're in Chapter 12. There will be discussions. There will be disagreements. There will not be a huge fight between the two of them. I don't have it in me to go down that road again. They're two of the more mature ones, and they won't be sucked into a fight and a rift. But security will be a touchy subject for everyone for a while. Though I don't intend to go into a lot of details after they're out of the hospital.

There's a plan behind the police not asking about who shot Daiju, but you'll have to wait. No, Mori's not going to get into any trouble. This isn't that story.

As for the aftermath of Yoshio's room, it will start to fade. The two missing employees will not become anything more than minor characters. It's time Kyoya got some closure on all that shit.

Shinobu will get an agent, and she and Haruhi will do some news stuff. The level of involvement they and the rest of the group have with trafficking is still up for some debate between Dad and me. We want to pull it back. It's not the point of the story. After they're out of the hospital, they all need to get back to their lives. But we keep thinking of great ideas they could do. I'm thinking we'll just leave those as ideas and leave the group doing what they do best…donating money.

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Next Chapter:

The group has dinner…the hacker is identified…Haruhi and Chika have a deep discussion…Hikaru is reassured…Bu's recovery has a setback…and a secret is revealed…

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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.