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.

16. Chapter 16 - Home

Author's Note:

Happy Saturday! For those of you in the US, remember to spring forward your clocks.

They're finally going home!

.

xXx

.

Date Posted: 3/11/2023

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Painful Truth - Chapter 16: Home

.

Saturday, October 1:

Breakfast, VIP Buffet, Tokyo Main:

"Please pass the salt," Oura mumbled. He's already on his third cup of coffee.

"How late was it when they finally left Neon?" I asked. I've been putting Haruhi-sama's new team together, so I was home at a decent hour.

One of the twin detail heads, I can never tell which, pried his eyes open and glared at me, "Three." The other one just groaned.

"Not as young as you used to be, are you?" I elbowed Oura in the ribs. He's been Satoshi-sama's detail head for almost two years. Since I'm his brother's head, I basically trained him even if he is almost five years older than me.

"No. But you just wait until Takashi-sama starts back at Todi. Between classes, all his businesses, the apartment, the estate, and spending time with Haruhi-sama, you'll be working hard too."

That's right. They haven't been told. "That's Yamaguchi's problem. I'm heading Haruhi-sama's detail until a new head can be named."

"Shit," the groaning twin guard whistled. "Don't envy you that."

"No kidding," his brother said after swallowing a large bite of pancakes. "You're gonna have everyone looking over your shoulder."

They're right. After all this, the only person who'll get more scrutiny is whoever takes over for Kono. But I'm ready for it.

.

As soon as I walked in, Akira-sama waived me over. I filled a plate and joined them.

"Good morning. Have the doctors been by yet?"

"No, you're in time."

Good. I know Fujioka-sama's being discharged today, and I want to be here for all the home care instructions. I won't have to treat her unless something goes wrong, but as the Morinozuka's personal doctor, I need to know what's going on with the health of everyone on the estate.

She and Takashi-sama are eating their breakfast at the next table, and she's getting better with her left hand. Her physical therapist should have her starting on strengthening and dexterity exercises soon. They won't want her doing any heavy lifting, but she'll need to keep it moving.

.

"Kyoya-senpai?"

Dammit. I've been with hospital security and thought I'd just quickly check on Haruhi, but I didn't think she'd see me.

"Join us for breakfast."

I refrained from asking if she was sure. When has she ever not been sure of her own mind. Besides, the more I keep asking for reassurance, the stranger this will all be.

"Alright. Thank you."

I'd only had toast and coffee so far, but now I'm awake enough to eat something more substantial so I headed for the buffet.

I could hear Hikaru from across the room. "Why you'd invite him, Haruhi?"

"Because he looked hungry." Her tone screamed at him to leave it alone.

"So. I'm sure he can find food somewhere else. He owns the damn place after all."

"Cut it out, Hika."

By this time, I'd selected my fish and returned to sit between Tamaki and Honey-senpai, across from the twins. As soon as I sat, Hikaru jumped up and headed for more food.

If this is his attitude now, just wait until he finds out I'm not going back to America.

.

I ran into Fujioka-sama's orthopedist outside the lounge door. "Are you letting her leave today?"

"Yes. What about Himura-sama?"

"Her second eye surgery was successful, so I'm discharging her today. I'll follow up at her home on Monday."

"You're going to a yakuza compound?"

"Yup." And I can't wait.

We walked in together, and I took a look around. Both sets of parents, both patients and their significant others, and what looks like the rest of their friends along with a bunch of security officers.

"Let's give them the good news."

.

I saw the doctors come in and tried not to tense up. I want out of here so badly, I'm dressed to walk out the door in jeans and a sweatshirt. Takashi laughed, but when I got odd looks from the rest of them, I kept quiet. I don't want to jinx it.

My orthopedist spoke first. "Fujioka-sama, you're cleared to leave this morning. Misawa-sensei and I will be by around eleven to go over your home care instructions and follow up information."

"Is that why you're wearing jeans?" Cho giggled. "I thought you were going to try to escape."

"That was the plan if I wasn't cleared to leave," I grumbled and stuffed another bite of grilled fish in my mouth. Delicious.

"You're cleared as well, Himura-sama. I'll be by later to brief your home nurse and to confirm our follow-up appointment."

"This morning, Doc. I'm not staying here a second after twelve."

He nodded with a silly smirk.

Guess I'm finally going back to the estate.

.

"Well," Renge sighed and pulled out her phone, "guess we all need to get checked out of the hotel now that we're sure they're leaving."

"Who are you texting, Renge-chan?"

"My assistant and maid. I'll just go home from here. They can go pack my things and bring them back to my estate."

"Good idea, my love. I'll have my maid meet me at the hotel. I want to pack up the musical equipment myself."

"Should we coordinate maids, Cho?"

"No, thanks. I think I'll pack my own things." Renge just shrugged and went back to her phone.

.

I can't take it anymore. Renge-chan's reached over twice now to stop my leg from bouncing.

I just have to tell them.

"Everyone! I have wonderful news."

"Better than Shinobu and me leaving the hospital?"

I looked across the table at my darling friend and tried not to wince at the long line of stitches down her face. "Maybe not that wonderful, Haruhi, but wonderful none the less."

"Out with it, Boss."

Before he could shield himself, I threw my arm around Kyoya's shoulders, "Kyoya's staying in Japan! He'll start Todi with the rest of us in three weeks." I smiled, ignoring his glare, "Isn't that terrific news?"

.

Idiot.

Damn idiot.

I didn't want them to find out that way. I've been trying to think of a way to tell them since last night but have come up blank.

I set my chopsticks down and scrutinized the room.

Renge isn't surprised. He must have told her last night, and she got her feelings out then. Chika just nodded at me and went back to his tablet. He won't be at Todi for a year and a half, so this news clearly doesn't bother him. Satoshi, on the other hand, had his palms flat on the table and was taking slow breaths. He's angry for Haruhi's sake. She'll cool him down.

But there will be no cooling Hikaru down. He stood up so fast his chair skidded out behind him and hit the wall. Without a word, he marched out the door. "I'll call you tonight, Haruhi," Kaoru said as he got up and followed his twin.

Honey-senpai picked up a doughnut and shoved it in his mouth. My guess is to keep from speaking his mind. Cho, who clearly hasn't been told any details, smiled at me. "Maybe we'll have a class or two in common, Kyoya."

"Perhaps."

Mori-senpai's his usual stoic self, but his eyes were tracking between Haruhi and me. She wasn't surprised at all. If anything, she looked like she won a bet with herself. "California was good for you, Senpai. I've seen the changes. It's time to end your self-imposed exile."

I let out the breath I didn't realize I was holding. She's the only one I was truly worried about. The rest will follow her lead. "Thank you, Haruhi."

Shinobu and Kasanoda both just turned back to their food. They weren't going on to university, so this news doesn't impact them. The likelihood of us running into each other is practically zero.

Akito and Yuki were the only other happy ones other than Tamaki. "This is great news, Kyoya-senpai. I know Sota will be thrilled, and we can have family dinner on Mondays again."

"I'll make sure to keep those nights open."

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

"You're wrinkling it, Asshole." I tried not to cringe as he stuffed the sweater into my bag. I need to keep my face as still as possible. "If you're just going to cram all my crap in the bag like that, why the hell did you insist on packing for me? My maid was already on her way when you turned her around."

He turned and pouted at me. "I wanted to pack for you."

"Then stop ruining everything."

Things weren't going much better on Haruhi's side of the room.

"Takashi, can you put that in the outside pocket, please?"

"Hn."

"And those pens should go in that blue pencil case, not the green one."

Why does she even have pens out if she can't write?

"Please don't…"

I turned in time to see her practically run over to the dresser and slam the drawer, but not before I saw some of that La Perla peeking out. "That's personal."

Mori must have seen it too because his face is dark red and he's staring at the floor. Poor guy.

"Just leave the bag on the dresser and I'll fill it."

"Hn," and he practically fled across the room.

"Hey, crazy chick, how many pairs of shoes do you need?"

"As many as I want."

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Twin's Room, Hotel next to Tokyo Main:

"You need to calm down."

"Are you shitting me? We just got rid of him and now he's staying? Are you telling me you don't give a shit?"

"Of course, I do, but Haruhi's the victim here, and she seems fine with it."

He threw his head back and screamed, "Motherfucker!" Then he turned to me and I took a step back at his glare. "Has everyone lost their fucking minds? That asshole leaked my medical records. I'm a victim too, dammit."

Shit. He's right.

"It doesn't matter that it was to that shitty tabloid. It doesn't matter that no one believed it. He did that to me. To me," he pointed at his heaving chest. "And don't forget Haruhi was going to marry that prick to keep it from happening."

He threw his arms up in the air and started pacing. "And she's letting it all go. Just like that," he snapped his fingers, "and that fuckface is forgiven."

I caught up to him and grabbed his upper arms, "First, he's not forgiven. She hasn't forgiven, and she hasn't forgotten. She's just let it go for her own peace of mind. That girl knows she can't let all that shit keep eating at her. But," I shook him a bit, "know this. They will never be close friends again. They'll probably never really be friends again. He fucked that up and has to live with it."

"No shit."

"Yeah, no shit." I stepped back to let him pace again if he wanted. "No one's asking you to forgive him. No one's asking you to forget what he did. No one's asking you to hangout with him. I think Haruhi would be satisfied with you not being openly hostile. She can live with everything else."

He flopped down face first on the bed, and I heard a muffled, "Shit."

"Yeah."

I tripped over some jeans as I headed for the bed too. Then I looked around the room.

Dirty clothes were all over the floor. I'm not sure if that's Hika's or my sock hanging from that lamp over there. The vanity was visible from this angle, and it was a disaster. Skin care products, razors, soap, and shampoo scattered all over the surface. And some spills we never wiped up.

"Hika?"

"Yeah?"

"How about we go shopping and let our maids pack all this up."

He lifted his head and looked around. "You're on."

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Akito and Yuki's Room, Hotel next to Tokyo Main:

She's sitting on the sofa in the living area just staring at the shirt she's holding. She's folded it three times and hasn't even started packing.

"You know, you don't have to do this. We can call our maids."

"I know," she sighed and leaned back. "It's just…"

I sat down and pulled her close, "I'm going to miss you too."

She lifted her face and kissed me gently. "Let's stay another night."

Her eyes gazed into mine, and it was obvious what she wanted. But I want to wait until her birthday.

"Probably not a good idea to tempt fate like that."

"But…"

"Yuki-chan," I took both her hands in mine and held her eyes, "waiting until you're eighteen is important. It gives you the choice as an adult. Knowing that you've chosen me, knowing that you've had plenty of time to decide is important to me."

I kissed her but pulled back before it got too heated. "It will be your first time. It will set the tone for the rest of our lives. I want it to be as special as possible. I want to take my time. I want to give you all the attention you deserve. Besides," I brushed her hair from her face, "I have that trip all planned. It will be perfect."

She thought about it for a moment the smiled, "Alright. The wait sounds worth it."

"Oh, it will be."

Nothing stopped us from kissing for a while before we packed up.

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

As soon as the doctors and nurses left, I approached my parents. "I'd like to move back home until Haruhi has recovered."

It was a long shot, and I could tell the answer right away from Mother's eyes. "That's not a good idea, Takashi. She's not bedridden. She's not an invalid. The reasons you moved out still hold true."

My shoulders slumped slightly, but I fought to keep my face impassive.

Father reached out and put his hand on my shoulder. "You can spend the days at home, but you need to be seen leaving in the early evening. I'm sure there will be press outside the gates until things quiet down."

"Yes, Father."

"Press?" Haruhi squeaked. "You mean they'll just be waiting outside for me?"

"Yes, Sweetheart," Mother went over and sat beside her on the sofa. "They've been camped out here at the hospital hoping to catch a glimpse of you. I'm sure some will move to the estate when you leave."

"But…that's crazy. They've never done that before."

"Actually," my parents looked at each other over her head, "they have."

"When?"

"It's been sporadic, but they tend to show up after your social media presence spikes."

"Oh." She started fidgeting with the bandages around her hand. "I guess I wasn't paying attention."

"Nor should you." Mother wrapped an arm around her. "The press is one of the reasons all our vehicles have tinted windows. They can't see in."

I'll have to remember to roll down my window so they can see me driving away in the evenings.

.

As soon as the last suitcase closed, I stood up and headed for the door. I'm so fucking sick of it here.

"Hey, Bu?"

"Yeah?" I turned as he came up behind me.

"Got you a present."

"Glasses?" I reached for the case.

"Just open it."

I flipped the lid and couldn't stop a girly squeal. There, in deep red velvet, was a pair of Cartier sunglasses.

"I had them custom made."

"Shit, Ritsu."

Big lenses, heavy tint. But it was the dragon that started on one side with his tail wrapped around the earpiece then over the top of the lenses and his head looking off the side of the other earpiece that did it for me. The diamonds and rubies didn't hurt either.

"They're perfect."

"Don't forget these," he pulled out a small jewelry box and lifted the lid. My engagement ring. And the wedding band we got in Vegas.

I asked him about my jewelry on the helicopter, and he told me the divers had found it all. But the fucking doctors wouldn't let me wear it in the hospital.

"I had all of it cleaned and all the settings checked, just to be sure." He lifted my hand, kissed my ring finger, then slid them on. That's when I noticed he's wearing his band.

"Thanks, Ritsu," and I gave him a deep kiss. Damn it's been too long.

He pulled away first. "Watch your blood pressure." Then he squeezed my ass. "You can thank me properly later."

"Damn right I will."

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Haninozuka Suite, Hotel next to Tokyo Main:

"Is everything alright, Mitsukuni? Yasuchika stopped by over an hour ago to tell us the girls were going home."

"Cho-chan and I took a walk. I needed to think, and she kept me company."

Kumi glanced at me then back to our son. "Would you like to talk about what's troubling you?"

He and his bunny slumped into a chair, and we sat down across from him. "Did Chika tell you Ootori is staying for good? That he's enrolling at Todi for the next semester."

Oh.

"No, he didn't." Kumi tilted her head, "Does Haruhi know?"

"Yes." He slumped further in his seat.

"And?"

"And she acts like she doesn't care."

"Well, she won't be at Todi for another semester, if she decides to go there at all. And if she does, she won't be in any of his classes. It's my understanding she'll be prelaw, not business."

"True."

"And you've had two semesters already, and this will be his first, so it's unlikely he'll be in your classes."

"I guess."

"Then what's the problem?"

.

I squeezed Usa-chan tighter, "I don't like him."

"After what he put Haruhi through, that's understandable. It's also something to put aside and not let it cloud your life."

My mind ran through the last week. The kidnapping, Haru-chan's injuries, Shinobu's injuries, social media, Takashi's embezzler, my new bakeries, the marriage contract…

I have enough going on without letting Ootori bother me.

"You're right, Mother," I jumped up and grabbed a cupcake from the minifridge. "Guess I'll pack."

She waived a hand in the direction of the room I've been using, "The maid's already taken care of it. Your things are going to your apartment."

"It will be so boring without Takashi there."

"Oh, he'll be there. At least at night." The corner of Father's mouth turned up, "He can't stay the night at the estate any more now than he could before for the same reasons."

Propriety.

But I think I've kissed Cho-chan more than he's kissed Haru-chan.

I shook my head. Doesn't matter. Only matters what social media says about it.

"Then I think I'll head to the dojo. I haven't had a good workout all week."

"Sounds good, Son."

.

xXx

.

Early Afternoon, Shinobu's Rooms, Himura Estate:

"You sure you want to do this now, Bu? We just got you settled."

"I've made my decision. It's time."

"You want me to go?"

"Yes. Thanks." Having him here for this undermines my authority and he knows it. That's why he offered before I asked.

"Anytime. This is Himura business." He grabbed his wallet and gun from my coffee table, "I'm heading home to pack," and left the room.

.

I knew she'd come home, but I didn't think she'd call for me so soon.

Honestly, I didn't think she'd call for me at all. Figured she'd just order my execution.

I've been standing in front of the door to her rooms for at least five minutes. I don't want to go in there. I don't want to face her anger and disappointment.

"Get in here!" I heard her shout through the door. I looked up at the camera. She must have been watching the feed.

I've been with her for almost a decade. Time to man up and face her.

The door swung open silently, and I stepped in. She's alone, sitting on the sofa with her head propped up on a pillow and her phone, tablet, and a bottle of soda sitting next to her with Kasa on her other side.

"Sit," she pointed to a chair across from her.

But I didn't sit. Instead I bowed before her on my knees, my forehead touching the carpet. "I apologize, Himura-sama. Your ordeal was entirely my fault. I failed you and the entire Himura Syndicate. I deserve yubizume [losing his little finger] and zetsuen [permanent expulsion]."

I stayed motionless, waiting for the inevitable dismissal.

It didn't come.

"Stand up, Kono."

I did slowly but kept my eyes on the floor.

"Face me."

I lifted my head and met her eyes.

"Yubizume and zetsuen. That's what you think you deserve?"

"Yes, Himura-sama."

"Well, that's not what I think you deserve."

Will she pull the trigger herself?

Then she heaved a sigh. "Sit." I sat on the very edge of the chair she indicated.

"Before I name your punishment, I have a question."

Question?

"It's been almost a week. I'm sure you've thought about it. What would you have done differently?"

She's asking me…

"Answer the question," she snapped.

"I have analyzed that day and my actions in the past. There are many things I'd do differently, starting with a permanent increase in the guards on your detail."

She nodded, and I continued. I told her everything I thought was a weakness and how I'd fix it. I gave her specific details about weapons, guard formations, new policies, and everything else I'd considered.

When I was done, she was still for quite a while thinking about what I said. Her fingers were running through Kasa's fur. I'm not sure she realizes she's doing it.

"I agree."

"Excuse me, Himura-sama."

"I agree with your assessment. I'd thought of several of those changes, and think your additional ones are needed as well."

"I will write a report for my replacement before my punishment." Which I'm expecting will be my death.

"I don't think we'll need that."

.

A line formed between his brows as his head tilted slightly.

Does he actually think I'm going to kill him? In my room? On this carpet? Without putting plastic down first? He knows he taught me better than that.

"The others that were there are gone. Zetsuen." I glanced down at my nails. Fuck I need a manicure. "But you? You've been with the Syndicate for almost fifteen years. We've invested a lot of time and money in you, Kono."

I saw hope flicker in his eyes, but he stomped down on it fast.

"This was an expensive lesson for both of us. We're not going to waste it."

"What does that mean?"

"It means," I hardened my glare, "you will stay in your position and implement all the changes you just told me about. It means you will build an entirely new team for me.

"It means we're starting fresh."

"What about your father? Hibino-sama? Ritsu-sama?" His eyes grew huge, and he slammed his mouth shut. Didn't want to say that out loud, did you?

"I do a thing called what I want." I paused for a beat. "They made it my decision, and I made it."

He slipped back to the floor and bowed again. "Thank you, Himura-sama. I won't let you down again."

"You better not because this is the only chance you get."

"Understood."

He's taking this too far. "Get up. We have a lot to talk about."

"Yes, Himura-sama." He pulled out his phone to take notes.

"Starting with that. Go back to Shinobu. You're making me feel like my mother."

"Yes, Shinobu-sama."

"I'm adding something to your list of changes. I want Ritsu's and my team training together. And we'll train with you once my eye heals."

"Done."

"And you're going to need to tour the Chiba compound…"

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Haruhi's Room, Morinozuka Estate:

"This lingerie is beautiful, Haruhi-sama."

I glanced at all the La Perla spread out over the bed and all I saw were yen signs. That one pair of black panties is 12,000 yen [~$120]. I looked them up. That's just a bit more than my old food budget for two weeks. Before I got Petto Chinmi and started modeling. Who spends that on something that can easily get blood stains on it? And those simple, white cotton ones…9,500 yen [~$95]!

"Haruhi-sama?"

"They are quite a luxury." I shook my head and turned back to my school books. "I guess just tuck them away somewhere. I'll save them for special occasions."

"Oh," Honami-san's hand covered her mouth, "I thought Umeko-sama told you."

I felt my eye twitch. "Tell me what?"

"Shinobu-sama suggested all your old lingerie be either thrown out or donated. This is all you have now."

I tossed my head back and stared at the ceiling but stopped myself from letting out a big yell in frustration. Why would Umeko-san agree to this?

One deep breath followed another until I could see straight again. "Fine. Guess I need to go shopping, because absolutely none of that is appropriate for the gym or heavy flow nights." I went over to the dresser and opened a drawer, only to find it empty, "My tank tops too?"

"Yes, Haruhi-sama."

"Then I'm not wearing bras for a while either." Not until I can snap them myself. I refuse to have someone help me get dressed.

.

Once Honami-san left, I knocked on Haruhi's door.

"Takashi?"

"May I come in?"

"Of course."

I left the door open all the way behind me and followed her back to her desk. "Did Renge give you all your assignments?"

"Yes. She even collected copies of everyone's notes, though I'm not sure why she included the twins'. I can barely read them."

"I had some of your classes two years ago, so I can help you if you want."

"No," she sighed and dropped into her desk chair. "So far, I understand what I've reviewed, I just can't write." She smiled up at me, "Thanks, though."

"I'm sure your teachers will be accommodating either with allowing you to take tests orally or a delay in your due dates."

"They shouldn't have to."

"But they will," I hooked my finger under her chin and lifted her face. "Accept help when you need it. You wouldn't expect any of your friends to manage without it, so why should you?"

.

That's when I realized his hair was wet, and I watched a drop fall from the tips and soak into his shirt. He looks good with wet hair. Disheveled and sexy.

"Did you take a shower?"

"I sparred with Mitsukuni for a bit."

"Good. You've been cooped up in the hospital for too long without some good exercise."

"Hn."

My heart sped up as he started leaning towards me. We haven't kissed…really kissed…since before. I tilted my head up and my lips parted.

Then the spell was broken by a knock on the door.

.

Crap.

Should have looked before I knocked. I'd be dead twice over if looks could kill.

"Haruhi-sama?" He stepped back and she waved me in. "I have your new laptop."

"New?" She rested her good hand on her hip, "Why do I need a new one?"

"We wanted to upgrade some of your software to be voice-activated and decided it was time for a full system upgrade while we were at it."

She pointed to her old one, "That's not even eight months old."

"True," I stepped in and swapped them out before she could protest, "but there have been security upgrades. All Morinozuka laptops are being upgraded."

I opened the new one and booted it up. "I ran a full cloud backup, so all your customizations and data are already here. It shouldn't seem too different." I showed her the dictation software and how to turn on the voice-activation shortcuts. Didn't take long. She picks things up quickly.

"If you have any questions or need additional adjustments, just let the tech office know. Our email is in your contacts."

"This is already linked up with Petto Chinmi's server?"

"Yes, and with Ouran as well."

.

When he finally left, Haruhi looked at me, then at the laptop, then back at me. She slowly walked over and reached her hand up to my face.

Hooking her hand around my neck, she pulled me down towards her.

"Where were we?"

.

His lips pressed against mine gently, and I leaned into the kiss. I've missed this, and there's no being romantic in a hospital.

I moaned as my sensitive nipples brushed against his chest. Even through both our shirts, I could feel the heat pouring off him. My stomach flipped and I moaned again.

"Haruhi…"

His hands slid down my arms and up my back, his fingertips skimming over my skin. Then one was in my hair, and he grabbed on.

"EEEppp!" He'd pulled on my stitches.

Instantly, he'd let go and backed away.

"I'm so sorry, Haruhi. I didn't mean to hurt you."

I followed and went straight back into his arms. "More surprised than hurt. My stitches were tugged a little. That's all."

"Maybe we should…"

I covered his mouth with my fingers. "Don't you dare finish that." I backed him towards a chair, and he sat then I climbed onto his lap. This time I started the kiss, and I wasn't as gentle as he had been.

"Haruhi…"

"Hush, Takashi." My hands stroked that hard chest. "Stop worrying."

.

xXx

.

Evening, Video Conference Call:

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): "The show starts at ten tomorrow morning, so you'll need to arrive at the studios at nine for makeup and wardrobe."

Kaoru: "Not necessarily." Jerk. "I'm having a suit delivered to Haruhi tomorrow morning. She'll wear that."

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): "Alright. She'll only need to change there then. We can arrive at nine-thirty."

Kaoru: "I had one of my Fall line suits done in navy leather for you, Shinobu, if you want it."

Shinobu: "Hell yeah. I was just going to wear that other suit you did, but I'm always up for new clothes."

Takemoto Hitomi (Shinobu's Agent): "Excellent. I'll be at the Himura compound at nine tomorrow morning. That should get us there in plenty of time."

Haruhi: "They know they have to be careful with my stitches, correct? No makeup?"

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): "They've been briefed. You'll be wearing bandages to protect the scar. They'll do makeup around them."

Haruhi: "Fine."

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): "The guests will be…"

I ran through the panel guests, explained the preapproved questions, and did some practice Q&A.

"You both will be great tomorrow. Nothing to worry about."

Imamura (On Okuri PR Head): "And you've confirmed my attending won't be a problem."

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): "Yes. You're expected."

Imamura (On Okuri PR Head): "Thank you, Inokuma-san."

With the check presentations coming next week and me not yet having met most of the On Okuri Board, I need to familiarize myself with the situation as much as possible.

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): "Anyone else planning on being there?"

Umeko: "Akira and I will be there as support. Takashi as well."

Shinobu: "Ritsu will be there but not my parents."

Inokuma (Haruhi's Agent): "Alright. I'll see you at the Morinozuka estate at 8:45, Fujioka-sama."

Haruhi: "I'll be ready."

.

We disconnected and I glanced over at Takashi.

I could see Umeko-san studying us out of the corner of my eye.

We didn't close the bedroom door, so she scared us half to death when she walked in and found us making out.

Not good.

"How about a game of Go before you leave?"

"Hn."

We played in the game room.

.

xXx

.

Night, Junto and Arisa's Room, Himura Compound:

I finally couldn't take it any longer and tossed my book onto the floor. The loud bang stopped Arisa in her tracks as she paced across the room.

"Will you come to bed? We have to get up early."

"How can you sleep at a time like this? Our baby is down the hall with that boy."

"Come here," I held my arms out and she finally climbed in bed and laid her head on my shoulder, "Why are you so upset? They were engaged. The contract was signed. I know you thought they were already sleeping together. Why are you calling him 'that boy'? What's actually wrong?"

She took a moment, and I felt a tear before she said, "I don't know. Everything happened so fast. First the kidnapping. I thought I'd lost her forever. My baby girl. And now she's back but not to be with us, but with him. I'm losing her." My shirt's slowly getting soaked. "I'm not ready for her to grow up."

"Hey," I pulled her tighter and kissed the top of her head, "she's not moving to the moon. The Chiba compound is only forty minutes away. You can visit. Besides, she's not moving there for a couple weeks anyway."

"Will she even want me there after the way I've treated her," she sniffed, and I pulled a handkerchief out of the nightstand.

"Yes, she will. Everyone's emotions are so raw right now. Things will calm down. She knows you just found out and need to get used to the idea."

More sniffing.

"How about a set night when we go over for dinner? We've all been so busy, you've only seen her at meals on weekdays recently anyway."

"I want them to come here for Sunday dinner."

"I'm sure we can talk them into that." I mopped her face with the handkerchief. "We can invite Ryuu-san too and make it a family dinner."

"Fine." I almost didn't hear the next part. "But I don't have to like it."

"No, just accept it. They were getting married anyway. It's just early."

.

xXx

.

Night, Kyoya's Apartment:

"I'm happy you called," she said as she dropped her coat and turned slowly. Naked and perfect, she walked towards me swaying her hips.

"Then you'll be even happier to know I'm moving back to Tokyo."

Her fingers reached the sides of my face and ran through my hair as she climbed onto my lap.

"I am happier."

"Bet I make it even better."

"How?"

I grabbed her around the waist, stood, spun, and fell on top of her on the bed.

"I'll show you."

.

xXx

.

Sunday, October 2:

Morning, TV Studio:

"You're all done, Fujioka-sama."

I opened my eyes and they took a second to focus on my face in the mirror. Subtle. Just the way I liked my makeup.

"Thanks."

I didn't want the bandages back on but understood why. Got to keep the stitches clean. It just felt so good to have them off.

I hopped down from the chair and headed for the main studio.

"Haruhi," Takashi smiled, "you look beautiful."

"Thanks."

That's when I heard heels clicking and mumbling. I turned to see Shinobu pacing with her hands on her stomach.

Ritsu looked over, and I don't remember seeing his eyes that worried before. I headed over and he whispered, "I can't get her to listen. She won't calm down."

"I got this."

.

Calm the fuck down, Shinobu. It's only a couple of old farts and Haruhi sitting around a table with you.

Yeah, and the entire fucking country watching.

What kind of a badass are you that you can't handle this?

"Hey," I spun around, and Haruhi was there. She grabbed my arm and pulled, "Come with me."

Two minutes later and we're in a lounge and she'd asked everyone to give us a minute.

"Look at me."

I did. They did a great job on her eyeliner.

"Breathe."

I did.

"Again."

And again.

"Now, stop it. You did a great thing. You saved those girls, and I know you'd do it again."

"Fucking A."

"And the press is the consequence. Deal with it."

"Fuck."

"No shit."

There she is, standing there in a professional dark green suit with her makeup on and her huge eyes. And she says 'shit'. I burst out laughing.

Then she smiled. "This interview can do a lot of good. You know that. You're increasing awareness and giving everyone a different perspective of the yakuza. It's a good thing."

"I guess."

She just huffed and rolled her eyes. "Let the moderator and other panel members do the talking, just like our agents said. We're window dressing."

"And you're OK with that?"

"Sure," she shrugged, "why not if it helps save more women and girls?"

"Point."

"Good. Let's get back out there before they storm the room." But before she could take a step, she let out a frustrated growl and bent over to adjust the strap on her shoe.

"Uh, Haruhi?"

"Mmm?"

"Why aren't you wearing a bra?"

She shot up straight and crossed her arms in front of her, "Is it that obvious?"

"Only when you bend over."

She looked at the door and lowered her voice, "I can't fasten the hooks with my hand. I thought I was flat enough it wouldn't matter."

"Just keep your jacket buttoned and don't bend over like that again. I got a great look up your shirt."

She turned bright red. "That's why…"

"Why what?"

And she got even redder. "Why Takashi kept turning away when I couldn't get my shoe on right."

Couldn't help it. I burst out laughing again. "As least he wasn't staring like Ritsu would have."

Then her eyes flashed, and I almost stepped back. "This wouldn't have happened if you hadn't 'suggested' to Umeko-san to get rid of my underwear. I had some of the tank top things that would have worked."

"Yeah, well, I told you you needed to get rid of all that plain white cotton crap."

She growled and headed for the door, but I stopped her, "Seriously, call Kaoru and have him get you some more of those tanks."

"I can get some myself. I was going to go shopping for more underwear anyway. None of that stuff is good for the gym or anything." She shifted from one foot to the other, "Seriously, what do you wear when you work out? You can't possibly wear that expensive silk stuff."

"Oh, shit. I didn't think they'd get rid of your sports bras and stuff."

"They did."

"I'll call Kaoru and get him to get some of that and those tanks for you."

"Thanks. At least that will keep me from having to wear all that expensive stuff."

I won't tell her that the tanks will come from La Perla and the sporty stuff will probably be just as expensive even if it comes from somewhere else. It will be a surprise.

.

I have no idea what Haruhi said, but my crazy wife was smiling when they came out of that room.

And now I'm sitting here with the agents and the Morinozuka's watching the panel.

"She's doing fine, Kasanoda-sama," her agent, Takemoto-san mumbled from the seat next to mine.

"They both are," Umeko-san said and took a sip of tea. "The panel members are being quite gracious with them."

Haruhi's agent just grunted and kept typing on his phone. Looks like he's on Twitter. Probably hyping up the hashtags.

So far, the experts were doing almost all of the talking. They asked Bu for the story of how she got into this in the first place, and she told them about the strip club and what she found. But not about how she got control of the club in the first place. That's private. After that, they've only asked random yes or no questions. Haruhi's hardly said anything.

"I want to thank our panel again for their time and expertise," the moderator wrapped up. "And to Himura Shinobu and Fujioka Haruhi, on behalf of the panel, this station, and the entire country, thank you for your tremendous personal sacrifice in uncovering the trafficking ring and saving the victims."

"That's our cue," Haruhi's agent said as he stood up. "They'll be free to leave as soon as they take the mics off."

.

"See, Shinobu. It wasn't as bad as you thought," Haruhi-chan laughed as we all walked up to them.

"You both did very well."

"Thank you, Akira-san."

"Would you like to go out for lunch?" I offered. Because the girls went through so much together, I'm trying to accept that their friendship will only get closer.

"No, thank you, Umeko-san." Ritsu-san put his arm around Shinobu-san, "I need to get her home. She needs to be as quiet as possible and keep her blood pressure down."

"Oh, of course." I turned to Haruhi-chan and could read the look on her face clearly. "We'll just head home then."

"Call me after your exam tomorrow night," Haruhi gave Shinobu a quick hug.

"You got it."

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Conference Call with Kyoya, US and JPN Staff:

Kyoya: "Thank you for coming into the office on your Sunday afternoon, Eric. I'll keep this brief."

Eric (US Assistant): I wasn't surprised he called. He rarely pays any attention to the day or time when he contacts me. Even when he's here in California, I've gotten calls as late as midnight. Good thing I spent that year in Japan and knew his reputation. Still jumped at the job. Huge stepping stone.

"Thank you, Ootori-sama."

Kyoya: "As you all know, I'm moving back to Japan. Running the Conglomeration demands more of my time than anticipated."

And Haruhi thinks I'm a better person.

And I miss that blond idiot.

"I'll be coming back to Stanford on the fifteenth to interview and hire more staff for the US offices. I was putting it off until midterms, and now we need to find a CEO to take my place."

Miyaji (Head of Ootori HR): "I received your email with the requirements, Ootori-sama. I'll be contacting the best headhunting offices in California tomorrow and get them started."

Kyoya: "Excellent."

I actually thought about hiring Keiko as CEO, but quickly dismissed that idea. She's not qualified. She'd be a good hire somewhere though. Someplace where her knowledge of both cultures can be utilized.

We discussed qualifications, numbers, and an organizational chart until I was satisfied the American firm would know what they were looking for.

"Morimoto? Where are we on the security handoff?"

Morimoto (BOS Head): "All BOS employees still in America will be coming back with you on the nineteenth except for the one I've designated to be my contact there. He'll coordinate with the US security firm we've hired. They'll take over all security for the offices. You'll bring your personal team with you when you travel there in the future."

Kyoya: "And the new department?"

Morimoto (BOS Head): "Miyaji-san and I have an appointment tomorrow to determine staffing. Your new Continuing Education Department should be up and running before the new semester at Todi starts. Those guards that were enrolled at Stanford are being enrolled here."

Kyoya: "Send Shinji the details for that meeting. I'll attend."

Morimoto (BOS Head): "Yes, Ootori-sama."

Shinji (JPN Assistant): The invite popped up in my email. "I've added it to your schedule, Ootori-sama. Tomorrow at three."

My life is actually going to be getting easier with him back in Japan. The time difference was killing me.

Kyoya: "We'll use the Ootori Conglomeration Continuing Education Department as the starting point. Adjustments will be made to accommodate security personnel."

Miyaji (Head of Ootori HR): "I've already started the changes, Ootori-sama."

And about time too. Yes, the Black Onion Squad is technically separate from the Ootori Conglomeration, but I've been pushing for this department for years, and Yoshio would never even consider it. His narrow view of what most of his security officers did caused stagnation. He really only cared about his personal team and his investigators.

Kyoya: "Good. I'll see you tomorrow." I double-checked the agenda. Looks like we're done.

"Eric, we'll talk more before I get there. Please have my personal things in the apartment packed. We'll keep it for visiting employees, and I'll use it when I'm there."

Eric (US Assistant): "Should I have your things shipped?"

Kyoya: "No. I don't need them right away. They can come back on the plane with me."

Eric (US Assistant): "I'll see to it."

Kyoya: "Then if there are no further questions, I'll end the meeting."

There were none.

.

Tachibana was hesitating at the door, so I waved him in.

"You're doing the right thing, Kyoya-sama."

"Moving back?"

"Yes. You needed to get some distance between you and what happened here, but it's time."

"What did you think about the news show?"

"Himura-sama did a good job explaining her involvement without saying too much."

"I was surprised she can be diplomatic when she needs to be." I finished my coffee and leaned back in my seat. "Her agent did well prepping her."

"Yes."

"I'm sure Haruhi was relieved she barely had to speak. Her agent would have explained she was there just to get people to watch."

I closed my eyes and relaxed into my chair. Didn't get much sleep last night. I heard Tachibana leave and close the door behind him.

.

xXx

.

Late Morning, Biggest Book Store in Tokyo:

"I'll just be a minute. Are you sure you don't mind?"

"Of course not, Sweetheart. Akira and I will come in as well."

"Thanks. I only need a few things, and since we were practically driving by…"

We climbed out of limo and followed her and Takashi in. She's so sweet worrying about us. Although, it's probably more of a symptom of her not feeling at home with us yet.

I'm still not sure why Takashi tried to talk her out of it. He should have realized he used the wrong approach. Even I know trying to convince Haruhi-chan that Honami-san can run her errands instead isn't the best argument. She's still learning how to best utilize her assistant. Besides, Haruhi-chan's been cooped up in that hospital for so long, getting out could do her some good.

I watched her head straight for the stationary section, Takashi and Nagata on her tail with Takashi's second, Yamaguchi, watching their backs. She said something about trying different pens for her left hand.

Akira and I strolled through the current best sellers on our way to the history section. I haven't been to a bookstore in ages.

.

I nodded once to Yamaguchi as he deployed my…his team. Today is our first outing with me as Haruhi-sama's head and him as Takashi-sama's acting head, and I'm finding it more difficult than I thought to focus solely on Haruhi-sama. I decided that staying within three meters of her at all times will keep my mind on her. When I'm guarding Takashi-sama, I'm usually on the periphery.

"Nagata, this is base. She's been tagged," I heard through my earpiece. That didn't take long. "Twitter. With the bookstore name and a geotagged picture."

"Send pic of account holder if you can."

Over the last couple of days, I've pulled guards from several other details along with a couple from the Haninozuka forces. Right now, I've got fifteen people just for Haruhi-sama. If tech can ID the account holder, they'll find them in the store.

My eyes quickly swept the stationary section. Most everyone is glancing at her, but there are a couple that I can't tell if they recognize her or if it's because of her security. I've got five guards in this section for her alone, along with two on Takashi-sama's team.

"I think this one will work," she held up a thick, heavy pen in her left hand. "It feels right."

"Hn."

Good. She seems oblivious to the attention.

.

When Umeko wandered towards the mystery section, I headed for politics.

Then, my ears caught the security guard's one-way conversation.

"Where?"

…

"How many?"

…

"Consider leaving through the back."

When it looked like it was over, I asked him what's going on.

"Haruhi-sama's been tagged in multiple Twitter accounts with geolocation. There are several young girls gathered in front of the store. Nagata reports most people have recognized her."

"I didn't think it would be this bad. Or happen so quickly."

"She's hit an entirely new level of fame, Akira-sama."

That's when I saw the newspapers.

.

"I'm done here. Just want to check the magazines before we leave." She dropped another pad of sticky-notes in the basket and started walking. "I hope your parents aren't bored."

"I'm sure they're not."

By this time, I'd definitely noticed all the attention we were getting. Both Yamaguchi and Nagata had sent me coded gestures indicating the issues. I also overheard one of the guards talking about Twitter.

"Oh, no."

She'd stopped so suddenly, I almost ran her over.

Then I saw the newspaper and magazine headlines.

FUJIOKA AND HIMURA RELEASED FROM HOSPITAL

OVER EIGHTY WOMEN AND GIRLS STILL HOSPITALIZED

COURT APPEARANCES STARTING THIS WEEK

And the pictures.

Haruhi wearing Karou's suits. In her Ouran uniform.

Haruhi being loaded into the helicopter. Haruhi from her press statement, her face bandaged, her skin so pale.

It hit me so hard, I almost yelled.

I hadn't really been paying attention to the news. Not the papers. Not the magazines. I barely watched any of it on TV. I was by her side in the hospital. I wasn't paying attention.

How did I not realize?

How did no one tell us? PR? Her agent? Her assistant?

We're all idiots.

"Takashi?"

My head jerked down at that tone. Terror.

We've drawn a crowd.

"That's her. I'm sure of it."

"Yeah, that's what she was wearing on TV an hour ago."

I heard her whisper my name again, "Takashi." Then she looked over at Nagata, panic clear in her eyes.

He stepped forward, put his arm around her, and started her moving.

"We're leaving, Haruhi-sama. The limo is out back."

When she looked over her shoulder and caught my eye, I finally unfroze. One of the guards took the basket, and I followed Haruhi.

"Your parents are ahead of us, Takashi-sama," Yamaguchi reported. "One of her team will stay behind to purchase her things."

Security closed ranks around us as we were led through the storeroom, out the back door, and into the limo.

.

Stupid.

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

Of course, there are stories and pictures and headlines and people recognizing me.

Can't breathe…

"Haruhi, look at me. Focus on my eyes."

Dark gray eyes widened when I found them.

"That's it. Focus." I felt him take my hands. "Now breathe with me…In…"

My breath shuddered as I tried to pull it in.

"Out…"

I blew out like a trumpet.

"Can't slow down…"

"Yes, you can. Focus." His hands squeezed mine. "In…

"Out…

"In…

"Out…

Slowly things faded until there were just eyes. Eyes wrinkled in the corners in worry.

"In…

"Out…"

Finally, the blood pounding in my ears faded, and I could hear him clearly.

"That's right. You're doing great. In…

"Out…"

And I finally found my voice. "All those pictures of me."

"It's alright. Just forget about them."

"Didn't realize. Didn't think."

"None of us did, Haruhi-chan." I looked over Takashi's shoulder and saw Umeko-san, tears in her eyes. "I'm so sorry."

.

That's when she burst into tears.

My son slowly pulled her on his lap and engulfed her in his arms.

"I'm here. You're safe."

How many times has he helped her with a panic attack like this? How many does she have that Umeko and I don't know about?

Umeko caught my eye, and I knew we were thinking the same thing.

As soon as she's ready, Haruhi-chan needs to go back to her therapist.

And we need to talk to her agent.

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

I've been working on Kyoya's rehabilitation for a while and it's easy for me to forget that Hikaru's a victim too, not just pissed for Haruhi's sake. Bringing him back will be a process, and you haven't heard the last of Hikaru dealing with it.

About Kono. When we outlined the kidnapping, we weren't sure what to do with him. It really wasn't until we'd decided about Eiji that we decided about Kono. We wanted to keep one of them. Wanted to have one of the girls decide they could stay. Kono made the most sense. But there will be big changes to her team and deployment, and she and Ritsu will start training with the teams. (Those scenes should be fun to write.) He's not completely off the hook, and you'll see him working hard to regain trust with certain people (Ritsu). You'll hear more about her reasoning as certain things come up. Hope it works for you.

Glossed over the news panel. What was said isn't necessary for the story. Having fun with the La Perla. Haruhi's too easy to poke fun at sometimes.

Debated about the bookstore. Is it realistic that they didn't think about the headlines? I think it worked. Hopefully, it's not too outside the believable.

.

Next Chapter:

Back to school for Haruhi and Ritsu…Haruhi gets more underwear…Ritsu sees the new compound…and Haruhi meets with her therapist.

.

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.