Author's Note:
Welcome back to the 6th installment of "The Last Straw" series, or what has turned into the Ouran Soap Opera.
Was able to Zoom with Dad from Morocco and read this one to him. It'd been a while since the connection was good enough for that. Best part is we were able to talk future plot for almost an hour. Some wild rides are coming soon.
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xXx
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Date Posted: April 8, 2023
Trigger Warnings: Language
The Painful Truth - Chapter 18: The Cemetery
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Tuesday, October 4:
Morning Before Classes, Sports Complex, Ouran:
Can't believe this.
I thought it was a joke when that intern said that a yakuza heir owned a company that retrofitted buildings green.
And now I'm here at Ouran High School. THE Ouran High School. Getting a tour from the scariest looking kid I've ever seen and the head of the damn Suoh family!
"The building produces all its own electricity both through the solar panels and the turbines in the pipes. It's carbon neutral and acts as a carbon sink for the surrounding buildings as well…"
Not bad.
"All water is filtered, purified, and reused throughout the building and the landscaping. Rainwater is…"
This is just what we want if the price is right.
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I let Okazoe, my CEO, do all the talking while I kept my eyes on the suit.
It's two years out of style. Only reason I know that is I had one like that and when I wore it a few months ago, the twins yelled at me. Of course, mine was designer and his is off the rack. It's in good shape. Must not wear it that often.
He told Okazoe that he didn't give a shit that I'm yakuza. So far, seems like he meant it.
His company just bought a rundown shopping complex in an area that's trying to attract kids and their money. And kids care about the environment, so he's here to see what Gurinraifu can do for them. I wonder if Honey-sen…Honey should open a bakery there?
I told Chairwoman Watase about the tour. Shocked the shit out of me when Suoh-san showed up. He might be a little weird, but he's smart enough to know he's giving me a lot more respectability by being here than I was getting just from having the tour at Ouran.
"Your design takes quite a bit into account, Kasanoda-san."
"Thanks. Okazoe-san and Maehata-san are the best."
"What would the process be if we wished to hire your company?"
"I'll let Okazoe-san answer that. She knows the logistics in and out." And there's no way I want to try to figure out all that fucking paperwork. That's why I don't run the company.
As she ran him through the contract, Suoh-san joined me. "I hope you don't mind that I joined you this morning, Kasanoda-san."
Like I'd object. "It was my honor, Suoh-san."
"I checked the financials, and the building is performing better than your initial estimates."
I'd seen them too. I know my designer lowballed a little, but it's doing better than our original projections.
"I'm considering a substantial landscaping project for the grounds surrounding the elementary school. Their equipment needs updating and the water costs are way too high. Interested?"
Took a lot for me not to react like an idiot. "Gurinraifu's up to the task."
"I'm sure it is. Ouran will obviously be a paying customer."
Good. We did the sports complex for cost, but it was a one-time thing.
By this time, our group had made it to the parking lot, and I needed to get back to my customer. "Thank you, Suoh-san."
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xXx
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Morning, KidZania, Tokyo:
"Look, Uncle Kyoya. I'm driving a bus!"
This place is crazy. I'll have to bring my wife and kids as soon as we can get reservations. Shido security isn't going to get instant access like the head of the Ootori family did.
"I see, Sota-kun. Don't forget to use your turn signal."
Not only do they have what's basically a kid sized town here, but the cars, busses, and taxies run on rails and actually move around.
"You get that picture?" Sota-sama's detail head asked me. I nodded.
Fuyumi-sama added me to the detail today just to take pictures and videos. I've already texted her a couple. The last one I sent shows the head of the Ootori Conglomeration wearing jeans and riding a kid-sized bus.
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xXx
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Lunch, Dining Hall, Ouran High School:
"Your face looks better in person." I looked up just in time to see Ritsu flush deep red. "Sorry. That came out wrong."
"It's alright," she sighed and turned back to her grilled fish. Still not eating that much. "That picture from the hospital was terrible."
"Have they caught who did it?"
Haruhi just shrugged.
"Satoshi?"
I looked over at Chika, "What?"
"Are you ready for that chemistry quiz?"
"We have a quiz?" Shit.
Chika rolled his eyes, "It's on the syllabus."
I started digging in my bag but couldn't find the right book.
"Here," he handed me his notes. "Just don't get soy sauce on them."
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"Did the doctor give you anything for the scarring?" If he did, I wonder if it could help me with the scar on my knee from roller skating. I tried to catch Tamaki-kun, and we both fell over. It didn't need stitches, but there is a faint line.
Haruhi pulled a jar out of her bag and handed it over. "I'm supposed to use it after I wash my face morning and night and throughout the day." She tucked some hair behind her ear. It's longer than it's been in a while. "He gave me a cleanser and moisturizer too. Said I'm supposed to stop using soap."
Crash
The table went silent at Hikaru's silverware dropping on his plate.
"Soap?"
"Soap?"
"What do you mean, soap?"
She crossed her arms in front of her. "Soap. I'm sure you rich bastards know what soap is."
"Haruhi," Ritsu leaned forward, "even I know you don't use soap on your face. It dries your skin."
"What do you use?"
"I'm not sure what it's called. Some cream shit my maid gets me."
"Are you saying you've been using soap on your face?" Kaoru stared at her. "Where are you getting this soap?"
"Would you all relax. It's not like hand soap or anything. It's face soap."
That's when the conversation seemed to catch up with Satoshi, and he pulled his head out of his chemistry notes. "You use a cream to wash your face? It doesn't lather?"
"I know you aren't shaving on a regular basis yet, Satoshi, but you've got to start taking care of your face…"
I let Ritsu handle it and focused back on Haruhi. Kaoru's practically yelling at her now. "How have you been taking off all your makeup from your photo shoots? What brands are you using?"
I reached over and grabbed his wrist, "Calm down. Let me handle it." I turned back and asked her, "Didn't you read the email Shinobu sent out about her skin care routine?"
"No."
Of course, she didn't. "Sounds like we need a spa day."
"No."
"Yes," I nodded. "We can try out all kinds of different products and find the ones you like best. How about Saturday?"
"No." Haruhi stared at her lunch, not looking at the rest of us. "I don't want to. What if it's like the bookstore?"
Bookstore…we'd all seen the social media posts. Don't blame her one bit. It is probably too soon for public appearances. She's getting enough crowding here at Ouran.
But…
"Oh, I know," I snapped my fingers. "How about we have them come to one of our houses on Sunday?"
Haruhi just shrugged.
"Yuki, how about the Shido's? I'm sure Fuyumi could do with some pampering."
"Great idea. I'll text her." She pulled out her phone and started tapping away.
"Are we…"
"…invited?"
"Nope. Girls' day." I held up a hand to shut them up before they could get started. "I'll make sure she gets the right products."
"Fine," Kaoru huffed.
"Don't forget to invite Bu."
"I'll text her now."
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xXx
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Lunch, KidZania, Tokyo:
I'm eating a fast-food hamburger made by my nephew at a kid's playland.
Never, in a million years did I ever think I'd be doing something like this.
And I'm having so much fun.
Too bad Kyoya's missing this, but he had to leave for a meeting. As busy as he is, we're lucky we got him for the morning.
"What do you want to try after lunch, Sota-kun?"
"Can I try being a doctor like you, Uncle Akito?"
"Sure. There's a bunch of different things to try. Dentist, ambulance driver, there's even an ultrasound machine you can try."
"That's what they use to see my baby brother or sister."
"That's right." I flipped through the map, "There's also an OR where you can try laparoscopic surgery."
"Laparo…what?"
"Surgery with cameras and tools on the ends of controllers. They go into the body through tiny holes, and you perform the operation by watching a screen."
"Like a video game?"
"A little."
"Have you ever done a lapscopic operation?"
"I've observed one."
"Then we can do it together."
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xXx
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Afternoon, Ogata Residence, Tokyo:
Ishikawa-san performed formal introductions, tea was offered, and we all sat.
Along with the rest of Japan, I'd kept up with the news about the Himura and Fujioka kidnappings and the police taking down the trafficking ring. Although because of my connections in the government and police departments, I knew much more than the general public.
I wasn't that surprised when Ishikawa-san reached out and requested the meeting.
As I studied the four men in front of me, I formed some preliminary opinions.
Oshiro-san and I have been introduced before but only in passing. He's been in the business for decades and knows what he's doing. Nothing is absolutely secure, but I'm sure he's been blaming himself for what happened.
I've never met Morimoto-san before. I'm almost positive this is the first time we've even been in the same room. I knew his predecessor but haven't seen or heard anything about him in months. It's like he dropped off the face of the earth. The Ootori private police force has always been a sticking point for me. Never understood why they needed it. Family security, yes. Conglomeration security, yes. But to call it a private police force and arm them as such, no.
And then there's the current head of the Ootori family, Ootori Kyoya. Nineteen and already made a name for himself with some interesting business decisions. The stock price has gone up almost thirty percent since he took over. Now he's sitting across from me wearing one of the most expensive suits I've seen, and since I met regularly with the emperor, that's saying something.
Well, let's get this started. "You all have some security issues."
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Not surprised Ogata-san got right to the point. It's not hard to figure out why the four of us would want this meeting.
"Yes, we do."
He nodded.
"The Haninozuka's, Morinozuka's, Ootori's, Suoh's, Hitachiin's, Kasanoda's, Himura's, and Houshakuji's would like to hire you through the Black Onion Squad to perform an extensive analysis of our security and make recommendations for changes."
I went on to describe the scope of the audit and some of the issues we're facing. Oshiro, Morimoto, and Kyoya-sama all adding their input as I went along. It took almost an hour.
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After Ishikawa-san laid it all out for Ogata-san, he sat back and was quiet for several minutes.
I'd been taught from an early age to not fidget, to not show impatience. But I really want to check my phone and see what pictures Akito's sent. Never thought I'd enjoy watching Sota pretend to be an airplane pilot or a fireman.
Will I do that kind of thing with my kids?
Yes, I will. And I hope I find a wife that will want to as well. We might not ever be anything more than friends, if that, but I want us to both be involved in our children's lives.
Ogata-san cleared his throat, "What is your timeline?"
"There are pressing issues…"
When Ishikawa-san was finished, Ogata-san nodded, "I think your families would be best served by an extensive team." He leaned forward and folded his hands on his desk. "As you all know, I've retired from the emperor's security, however, I'm not ready to spend my days in full retirement. I was unsure what I wanted to do next, but this meeting has clarified it for me."
He waited a beat then continued, "With my extensive experience and contacts around the world, a security consulting firm will be my next career."
Excellent idea. And the price just went up.
"I know people through the American Secret Service, Israeli military, British Royal Guard, and freelancers with celebrity experience that I can bring on board."
And it went up again. But it will be worth it.
"Give me a week to put together the beginnings of a consulting firm, and we'll meet again to go over contracts and timeline."
"Excellent idea, Ogata-san." And we expected nothing less.
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xXx
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After Classes, Petto Chinmi Offices:
"The security cameras have all been upgraded in the last six months," Goto-san pointed them out. "Their live video also feeds into Morinozuka Security."
"24/7?"
"Yes, Nagata-san."
Interesting. Usually, businesses owned by the Morinozuka's only send their video streams when a family member is there.
"We started monitoring it the day of the kidnapping and decided to not stop, though now it's only monitored live when she's here."
After Goto-san and I escorted Haruhi-sama to her office, I left a member of her team with her so he could give me a tour. I've been here with Takashi-sama, but always waited with the car, so I've never seen the inside. I also haven't been here since before the Olympics.
"The fence is new." I was surprised to see it when we drove up.
"It was installed while she was in St. Louis. Eiji-san and Kato-san decided to enclose the building and parking lot. The gate is open during office hours. It has a camera that takes pictures and alerts me via app every time a car goes in or out."
He pulled out his phone and showed me the monitoring system. "Now that she's back, we could keep the gate closed when she's in the office. Each employee has a code to get in and a record is kept of every entry and exit, and I'd approve any non-employees such as deliveries. I've gotten to know the regulars."
"Fortunately, there are no schools in the area. It's almost all businesses and small restaurants. I think we can wait and see what happens when she starts to spend more time here."
We finished our walk of the perimeter and headed inside to meet up with Kato-san.
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"I think that's it for now, Imai-san."
"Thank you, Fujioka-sama. I'll make sure those updated reports are emailed to you by lunch tomorrow."
She gathered her notes and closed the door behind her.
And now I'm alone in my office.
It feels strange to be here. Off somehow. Like everything's been moved three centimeters to the left.
It also doesn't feel as important as before.
I guess once you've been kidnapped and stabbed, budget meetings don't hold the same level of criticality.
Leaning back in my seat, I swiveled my chair to face my whiteboard wall. Our five-year plan is going well. Then my eyes caught the pictures for the grooming salons.
And I was right there…
Watching Kasa being brushed…
My head jerking to the door when two men in masks came through…
Seeing one shoot Shinobu and her fall down…
Then the gun being turned on me…
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"Fujioka-sama?" I tapped on her door before opening and walking in. "Are you ready for Sato-san and me?"
She didn't move from staring at the wall opposite the door.
I cleared my throat and tried again, "Fujioka-sama?" Nothing.
I walked around her desk and into her line of vision. She still didn't move.
Her eyes were huge, and I've never seen skin so pale. It was so slight, I barely noticed her trembling. She'd wrapped her arms around herself, and I could see her pulse in her throat. It was beating so fast…
I dropped to my knee, wanting to not stand over her. "Fujioka-sama? Are you alright?"
Her eyes slowly tracked to mine. Then blinked, releasing two tears.
Her voice was so small, it hurt. "Tanaki-san?"
"Yes." I wanted to reach out, to comfort somehow, but knew better. Don't crowd a frightened animal, and that's what she looks like. "You're in your office at Petto Chinmi. You're safe."
It took a moment before she drew in a huge, shuddering breath and released it slowly. Her hands dropped to her lap as she gradually relaxed. I stood and backed away.
"Perhaps we should wait…"
"No," she snapped, then blushed. In a calmer, softer voice, she tried again, "No. I'm alright."
She was anything but. However, I understand the wish to push through. The wish to do normal things.
She turned away from the wall and sat square behind her desk. With a deep breath, she found a strong voice, "Please sit, Tanaki-san, Sato-san. Tell be about the lawsuit."
"Well, Fujioka-sama, the first trial is set to start November second…"
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When she and her assistant director walked in, we all stood and bowed. "Thank you for making time for this, Fujioka-sama. Are you sure you feel well enough to proceed?"
"Yes," she nodded. "I'm curious about the ads, and we can't afford to delay the campaign."
"Alright. Take a look," I waved my hand at all the easels in the room, "and let us know what you think."
Just like last time, she stood and studied each one, making comments on sticky notes and pressing them gently to the ad before moving to the next one. I could read some of them from where I stood and agreed for the most part.
My agency did a good job.
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I'd already looked at them all while we were waiting for her, so I took the time to make sure my assistant knew her marching orders.
"Get the publication records from Gorou-san and keep track of where all the ads are being distributed. I don't remember any being slated for a billboard like the 'Every Woman' ads but find a couple that are in photogenic settings and have portfolio shots taken. I'll see if I can talk her into standing in front of them for a couple of pictures."
"Yes, Inokuma-sama."
I've been her agent for about three weeks, and already she's raised the profile of my agency more than I could have imagined. I basically took her on because I'd be pissing off that Hitachiin twin, but it's turned into a much larger responsibility. Good thing I negotiated several billing streams. She doesn't make enough for a percentage to cover what I'm having to do.
"This is for "Dog's Life?"
I looked up to see her standing in front of a sandcastle ad. She and three dogs leaping in the air, centimeters from crashing into it.
"Yes. We negotiated a one-and-a-half-page spread. The other half page is the continuation of the cover story."
"Excellent placement," she smiled. The first real one I've seen since the ball.
She sat down at the head of the table, and the ad agency guy started going through the mockups one by one.
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xXx
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Evening, Shinobu's Private Office, Himura Estate:
Thought about it all day. Ended up deciding I wanted Ritsu to hear everything. Who knows, he might have a brilliant idea. He said he'd be quiet until it was just us after the meeting.
Tamura got me a laptop with access to everything in the Chiba Syndicate, and I've been going through it yesterday and today.
Yes, in short sessions, just like that doc said.
"Alright, let's get started. I have a long list of shit to go through, and we can't take all night."
The four of us (me, Ritsu, Miyagawa, and Tamura) sat down at my conference table and stared at all the papers I'd printed and stacked. What a fucking nightmare.
"First," I picked up the list of employees broken down into syndicate and legit, "who left, who stayed that needs to go, who'd you get rid of, and who's worth keeping?"
That took almost an hour to get through the printout.
"So, for the Syndicate side, you'll visit each establishment or office for an inspection and get loyalty oaths and non-disclosure statements," Miyagawa checked something off his list. "And for the legitimate business side, I'll handle any issues and get them sold except for the apartments. You'll check with Morinozuka Takashi-sama to see if he'd like to purchase them for his business."
"Yep." Random luck does work sometimes. He's the lawyer the firm assigned to me, and we work well together.
I glared at Tamura, "You sure you took care of the ones that needed it?"
"Yes, and you don't want details."
"Not as long as it can't come back at me, you, or anyone else in the Syndicate."
"It can't."
"Good." And I marked that off my list.
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xXx
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Evening, SUV Headed to Morinozuka's from Petto Chinmi:
The SUV was quiet for the ride back to the Morinozuka estate.
My mind is spinning. I don't think I could take any more.
I approved all the ads. That agency is perfect for us. Small enough to really listen to what I want and creative enough to come up with some amazing shots. Those pictures of me and the dogs in the tunnel trying to keep away from the sprinklers are precious. I picked a new autograph card from them. About flipped when Gorou-san suggested we have five thousand printed.
Five thousand autographs.
We ended up choosing four other shots from the park and the beach and doing a thousand of each. I'll be signing my name so often, I'll be autographing things in my sleep.
I'd started to remind her to coordinate with Kaoru's ad department to make sure we weren't targeting the same places or publications, but she'd already done that. She made a big mistake during the annual dog show but has been exemplary since.
"Ouch," I winced and looked down at my hands. "Great." I'd picked at the bandages on my right hand and pulled the stiches. I can't wait for them to come out. I'll have to rebandage it when I get back.
It's a relief to have an agent now. Someone to look at the entire picture and make sure what I'm doing at Petto Chinmi isn't hurting Every Woman or vis versa. Inokuma-san watches all the moving parts and his assistant, Kawai, handles all my statements. I don't have to approve what Karou's people want to say on my social media anymore. Why did I wait so long?
…Guess I'm becoming a rich bastard after all. But they'll never get me to say it.
Turning to the window, I laid my head against the seat and watched the traffic go by.
Dad, what would you say if you were here right now?
Oh, no. Dad!
"What's the date?"
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xXx
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Evening, Shinobu's Private Office, Himura Estate:
"Next," I reached for another printout, "are the Syndicate businesses." They ran guns, did protection, and had lots of casinos, mostly cards, with loan sharks. "Some of these are shit performers. We got rid of the guys that weren't pulling their weight. The question becomes can they be turned around with new people."
It took another hour to decide to retool the protection, close a couple of casinos, and restructure the guns like my syndicate does. The protection was being run by fucking morons and had potential. The neighborhoods around the two casinos were changing to middle class residential and they just weren't getting the business they used to. And the guns were a no brainer. The Himura's have been running guns for generations. We know what we're doing.
"That just leaves the pornography."
Yep, porn.
The records referred to everything in code. The guns, casinos, and protection were fucking obvious: party favors, real estate, and insurance. But 'stuffed animals' just didn't scream porn to me. Guess I've been hanging around Honey-senpai too much.
"Right now, it's being smuggled in and distributed through different pickup spots throughout Tokyo."
This decision was obvious after what Haruhi and I just went through. "I don't want to see it. I don't want to know what type it is. Destroy it all. We're out of that business."
"Yes, Himura-sama," Tamura nodded.
"And if I find out you didn't get rid of every last piece either physical or digital, no one will ever find the body."
"Yes, Himura-sama."
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xXx
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Evening, SUV Headed to Cemetery from Petto Chinmi:
"I can't believe I didn't remember."
She'd left the divider down after asking us to take her to the cemetery. I was on the phone with security headquarters notifying them of the change and getting another team there to meet us.
But I could still hear her…
"What kind of a daughter doesn't remember her father on the anniversary of his death?"
It's been eight months. With everything that's happened, it slipped our minds too. Eiji would have remembered, but he's out of town visiting his parents. Dammit.
"I'm coming Dad. I'm coming." I could hear the tears in her voice.
I focused back on the phone when the tech guy said, "The traffic camera's picked up several plates from known media throughout the day, but the webcam on the grave marker shows only a couple of people that appear to be visiting other graves."
"ETA for the second team?"
"Twenty minutes."
"We'll be there in ten, but we'll slow down. Text me updates. Call if anything important happens."
"Yes, Nagata-san."
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xXx
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Evening, Shinobu's Private Office, Himura Estate:
I could tell Bu was getting tired. But this is her meeting, and I couldn't just open my big mouth and end it. So, I slipped her a note.
Wrap it up. You need to rest.
She gave me a quick nod and turned back to the guys. "Next is the compound."
Guess she can't just end the meeting after I give her a note, or she'll look like she's taking orders from me.
"You're in this discussion, Ritsu, since you'll be living there too."
"OK."
"From what I could see on the video, parts are practically falling down."
"Video?" Tamura'd gone a little pale. Not sure why he's worried. I don't remember him doing something he wouldn't want her to see or hear, but I wasn't with them the whole time.
"Yeah. Kono was wearing a camera and mic."
"Oh."
"Ritsu and I want to move in by the first weekend in November. I wanted it to be sooner, but it's going to take that long to convince me the security is good enough."
"And we gotta get all that ugly shit out of the main house," I mumbled.
"That too."
"The head steward is solid. As soon as you're cleared, I think you and I should go over to meet with him and get a tour of the house. He'll line up the staff that wants to stay and they'll give their oaths. Then you'll know what positions need to be filled and get ideas for the remodel."
"Shit," Bu slammed her pen down on the table, "I was going to call Renge about a decorator. I don't know shit about that, and she's redoing the second Suoh mansion for them after the wedding." She ran a hand through that short hair and picked up the pen, "I'll talk to her tomorrow at lunch. Who knows? Maybe the others will have some ideas."
"That works."
"As for the rest of the compound, I need a tour and to decide how much I'm going to run directly out of it, how many need to live on it, and what my goals are."
"How about Saturday if you're cleared by the doc."
Her eyes narrowed, and she growled, "If I'm not cleared by then, I'm killing him."
No way I'm going to argue with that.
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xXx
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Evening, Cemetery, Tokyo:
"Is that her?"
I rolled my eyes, "Probably not. That's an SUV, not a limo. This is a waste of time."
"It's the anniversary of her father's death. If it was my dad, I'd be here."
"Even if you'd just been released from the hospital after being kidnapped?" Why did I let her talk me into standing out here in the cold. And hiding behind the gatehouse? "Forget it. Let's just go."
Then she gasped and grabbed my arm, "It is her…"
Sure enough, Fujioka Haruhi practically jumped out of an SUV with what had to be her security coming after her. She headed straight to the marker.
"She doesn't even have flowers…"
And that's when all hell broke loose.
.
I was in the security car that trails her SUV, so we were just pulling up when we saw her climb out of the car on her own and take off down the sidewalk, Nagata jogging to keep up.
And that's when people spilled out of several of the cars in the lot and others came out from behind different grave markers. Two teenage girls even popped out from behind the gatehouse.
"Fujioka!"
"Haruhi! It is you!"
"How are you doing?"
"Are you recovering?"
"Fucking press…" the guard behind me growled under his breath. I agreed.
We started moving them back, creating a clear path for Haruhi-sama to come back to her SUV.
.
"Fujioka!"
I stopped dead, staring at the reporter who just appeared in my path.
"How are your injuries? What's it like going back to school after what you went through?"
"What?" What's happening?
Then there were more. At least a dozen girls running towards me.
Over the woman's shoulder, I could see the marker…Mom, Dad, and Jarou's marker. Everything on the edges went black. The marker was all I could see.
"Haruhi-sama?"
I felt an arm around my shoulders. Then I was staring at the sidewalk, being led somewhere.
"Let's get you back to the estate. The SUV's right here."
The door was already open, and I climbed inside. Someone helped me. My feet felt like lead.
I burst into tears as soon as the door closed.
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xXx
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Evening, Twitter:
Random Account 1: #FujiokaHaruhi visiting father's grave #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi [picture of her getting out of SUV]
Trashy Tabloid: Breaking news: on Anniversary of father's death, #FujiokaHaruhi visits cemetery [picture of her walking towards marker]
Random Account 2: I saw her! I saw #FujiokaHaruhi in person! [picture of her walking]
Response to Trashy Tabloid: vultures! Leave the girl alone!
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xXx
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Evening, Mori/Honey Apartment:
"Excuse me, Takashi-sama?"
I paused the movie and focused on Yamaguchi, my acting detail head. "Yes?"
"Haruhi-sama stopped by the cemetery on her way back from Petto Chinmi and was ambushed by fans and press."
I grabbed the tablet he held out and skimmed her hashtag on Twitter.
"It's already on TikTok as well."
Mitsukuni grabbed my arm and pulled me up from the sofa. "Go home. Go help Haru-chan."
I was already at the front door before Yamaguchi caught up.
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xXx
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Evening, Twin's Room, Hitachiin Estate:
I was sitting at my desk trying to work on my history project when Hika burst in, "Motherfucker! Are you seeing this?"
"What?"
"Twitter! TikTok! It's fucking everywhere!"
I pulled up my account and felt my stomach drop. "Oh, shit."
"Yeah."
"What do we do?"
"I don't know about you, little brother, but I'm going to tell these fuckers exactly what I think of them…"
He put his phone on the tripod and started recording…
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xXx
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Evening, Morinozuka Estate:
Akira and I were waiting at the garage entrance when her SUV pulled in.
Nagata got out, but Haruhi-chan's door stayed shut. She usually opens it.
I waved him off and opened it myself. "Haruhi-chan?"
She just sat there. Her right hand around her waist. Her face in her left hand. I could hear her sobbing.
I turned to the men, "I've got this," and climbed into the car, pulling the door shut behind me.
"I forgot," she whimpered. "I forgot the date. I forgot Dad."
"Oh, Sweetheart," I put my arm around her, and she turned into my shoulder, "with everything that's been happening, I'm sure he understands." No sense in trying to talk her out of believing she forgot. She did. There's no denying it. But she doesn't need to feel bad about it.
"I missed last month because of St. Louis."
"And I know Ranka understood. He would have wanted you to be there to cheer your friends on and enjoy yourself."
"I know, but then I forgot this month."
By this time, I started running my fingers through her hair, trying to get her to calm down. She's practically in hysterics. "Try to picture him, Haruhi-chan. Picture Ranka. Now can you imagine that he wouldn't understand? Not even a little?"
The car was quiet except for her hitched breathing as she started to calm a bit.
"No…"
"Of course, not. Parents understand."
.
Takashi's car squealed into the garage and left a small skid mark as it stopped. He jumped out of the car and saw me. "Where is she?"
"Relax," I put my hand on his shoulder. "She's in her car. Your mother got in to talk to her."
"She hasn't even gotten out?"
"Let your mother handle it for now. I'm sure they'll both be out soon."
His chest rose and fell with rapid breaths as he stared at the SUV. "How could security let this happen?"
I looked over at Nagata, still standing between us and the car, "A question I'd like the answer to as well."
"Haruhi-sama remembered the date and asked us to drive her to the cemetery. I called in to security requesting a second team to meet us there. Tech reported an increase in known press license plates throughout the day, but the webcam didn't show any people to be concerned about."
Takashi slowly swiveled to face him, "Adjustments clearly need to be made."
Nagata swallowed hard, "Yes, Takashi-sama."
"Why did you even let her out of the car? Didn't you see them when you pulled up?"
"Most were sitting in their cars or hiding behind markers, so no, we didn't see them. As for her getting out of the car, she opened the door and jumped out as soon as the SUV stopped."
I heard Takashi struggle to calm his breathing, so I spoke up before he could. "I think it's best if you keep the indoor locks on in her car. That will keep her from opening the door herself and stepping out before you're ready for her." I looked back at the car, picturing that small girl in there. "She's been allowed to open her own doors for too long. It didn't matter at first when she wasn't as well known, but it matters now."
Nagata nodded, "Yes, Akira-sama."
"You can always unlock them when you're in a place where opening her own door in appropriate like this garage or the estate of a group member."
We all spun towards the car when we heard the door open. Umeko climbed out but Takashi was there like lightning to help Haruhi-chan out.
Their eyes locked. His narrow and full of concern. Hers red-rimmed and glassy. "Can we go to the koi pond? I want to sit with Dad's picture."
"Hn."
He put his arm around her and led her into the house.
.
xXx
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Evening, Phone call between Tamaki and Renge:
Tamaki: "How dare they ambush my darling friend at the cemetery. The cemetery!"
Renge: "Security got her out. I spoke with my head and got the details. The reporters and fans were hiding there. Security didn't see them when they arrived."
Tamaki: "That's no excuse. Those horrible people shouldn't have been there to begin with. How could the cemetery let them in?"
Renge: "It's a public cemetery. A commoner one. There isn't a gate or someone to check who's coming and going."
Tamaki: "They have commoner cemeteries?"
Renge: I had to bite my tongue to keep from snapping. Sometimes he doesn't think before he speaks. I took a deep breath for patience. "Yes, they do. Where else would commoners be buried?"
Tamaki: "Oh."
Renge: "Tamaki-kun…"
Tamaki: "We should go over and visit. She needs her friends for support."
Renge: I'm sure the last thing she needs is a bunch of us showing up at her door. "It's getting late, and we have school tomorrow. Umeko-san and Takashi are there for her. She probably needs a quiet night more than anything."
Tamaki: "You're right, but I feel I should send her something…"
Renge: I probably won't be able to talk him into not sending anything. "How about some strawberries to be delivered for breakfast?"
Tamaki: "Perfect. Thanks, Renge-chan. I love you so much."
Renge: "I love you, too." You crazy man.
.
xXx
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Late Evening, Koi Pond, Morinozuka Estate:
When another tear landed on her father's picture, I slowly held out my handkerchief. She ignored it, so I set it on my thigh for when she was ready.
She's shrugged off my arm, so I'm just sitting here next to her. I feel awkward, like I'm not sure if she really wants me here. She's so independent, and her grief has been so private.
Would she rather Mother be here?
Another quiet sob tore at my heart. Should I stay? Should I go?
I slowly slid forward on the sofa, preparing to stand, and her left hand flashed out and grabbed my sleeve. "Don't go."
I slid back and waited.
.
xXx
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Social Media:
Random Twitter Account: #FujiokaHaruhi without stitches…horrible scar [pic from cemetery]
Reply to above: Shut up. After what she went through, she's lucky to be alive
.
Random Twitter Account: Every single one of you should be ashamed of yourselves. #FujiokaHaruhi is a hero for what she went through.
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xXx
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Evening, Akira's Private Office, Morinozuka Estate:
Akira exploded as soon as he shut the door behind us, "Unacceptable!"
"I agree," I mumbled, sitting down out of the way of his pacing. Perhaps it's best we didn't have a daughter before now. He never lost his temper like this at anything having to do with the boys.
"How dare they lay in wait at a cemetery." He spun and waived his arms in the air, "A cemetery!"
I let him rant and pace for a few minutes then broke in, "What can we do? It's a public cemetery."
"She can't go back without security doing a sweep first. No more unscheduled visits."
"She'll hate that, but she'll understand."
I watched him fume a bit more then I could almost see the lightbulb over his head. "What if we bring the ashes here?"
"What?"
"Her father? What if we bring them here?"
Was not expecting that. It would solve the problem but…
"It's not just Ranka. It's his boyfriend and her mother too. You want to bring the entire marker and all three sets of remains onto the estate?"
"It's not the worst idea."
"I don't think she'd let us, and we could never do it without her approval."
He slumped down on the sofa next to me, "We can ask her." He laced his fingers with mine.
"When?"
"Not now. It's too raw."
"But while there's enough time before the next anniversary."
"Friday?"
"She has that fashion shoot."
"Saturday morning before that sleepover?" He'd pulled out his phone to check her calendar. "Is she even going?"
"I'm not sure. She's been so closed off, and this is going to make it worse."
"Then we'll see how she's doing Saturday after breakfast."
.
xXx
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Late Evening, Koi Pond:
I caught the picture when it slipped out of her hands before it could crash to the floor. She'd been nodding off, and I was ready.
"Haruhi?"
She'd finally cried herself to sleep.
I texted Mother to meet us in Haruhi's room so she could help her to bed, then I slowly, carefully lifted her in my arms and headed upstairs.
I dropped her off, gently kissing her forehead. When Mother came in, I went straight to the security offices.
.
When Takashi-sama stormed in, I braced myself the best I could. I'd been expecting him to find me after Haruhi-sama settled down.
"Explain," he snapped, and I went through what happened.
"What changes are being made?"
"I've written a full report along with my recommendations. I agree with your father. Her locks will be engaged so she can't open the door herself. After today, I'm sure she realizes she should wait. The locks will remind her when she needs it."
"Hn."
"There will be no more unscheduled visits to the cemetery. We'll also expand our webcam coverage."
"No more unscheduled visits anywhere." His eyes caught and held mine. I suppressed the shiver that cold look gave me. I've been his detail head for years, but I forgot just how intimidating he can be.
"Alright. I'll let her know." She'll hate it. "I hope she doesn't try to fight me on it."
"I'll speak with her."
"With all due respect, Takashi-sama, perhaps you should let me be the bad guy this time."
He turned it over for a moment then nodded. "Thank you."
"You're welcome."
.
xXx
.
Late Evening, Group (minus Haruhi) Text [Emoji]:
Renge: Has anyone spoken with Haruhi? Mori?
Honey: Takashi went home to be with her. I haven't heard anything
Satoshi: I don't think he's left yet
Cho: Are you all reading twitter?
Hikaru: Yes. Assholes. Vultures. Ghouls.
Renge: Saw your Tiktok. Not sure yelling at them and calling them names is going to help
Hikaru: Yeah, but it made me feel better.
Satoshi: And you're prob only one can get away with it.
Hikaru: damn right
Yuki: How horrible. Can we do anything?
Renge: Yes. I spoke with my PR. They're drafting a statement condemning what those people did and reminding everyone what she's been through then asking everyone to give her space
Renge: Suggest it's signed by all of us and sent out through all our family's PR departments. We need to show a united front.
Karou: Anyone see what her agent's posted?
Yuki: No. What?
Kaoru: Basically what Renge just said. Stronger language than you prob want
Renge: I'll make sure my people see it. They'll send him a copy as fyi
Ritsu: include our PR firms too
Renge: of course
Mori: She's asleep.
Hikaru: How is she? What did she say? What happened?
Mori: It was an unscheduled visit. They were waiting. She didn't wait for security to do a sweep. Just left the car on her own.
Mori: She didn't say much.
Renge: Security's making changes, right?
Mori: Y
Renge: OK. Everyone hold off on posting anything. Once the release is ready, I'll let everyone know. You can all retweet, repost, whatever. And no more rants on TikTok
Hikaru: They deserved it.
Renge: True, but it only gets them fired up
Hikaru: fine
Chika: Make sure On Okuri's PR gets a copy. And Petto Chinmi
Renge: K
Kaoru: And Every woman
Renge: K
Renge: And don't mention it tomorrow at school
Mori: she won't be there. Board mtg with me.
Renge: Good. Try to talk her out of coming back even if you end early. She needs the day.
Mori: will try
Chika: Don't forget…check presentations tomorrow. This will not be mentioned and questions about it will be ignored.
Shinobu: Can't forget You're making me give a fucking speech
Tamaki: Are we still on for dinner and studying at Mori and Honey's?
Honey: Yes! We're having some of Haru-chan's favorites
Renge: alright it's late. See you all tomorrow
Yuki: good night
Satoshi: [waving hand]
Hikaru: night
.
xXx
.
Night, Shinobu's Rooms, Himura Estate:
"Do I combine all this new shit into the Himura Syndicate? Does it make me look weak to turn it over to Dad?"
She's lying on her back, hands behind her head, staring at the ceiling with her uncovered eye. At least she's wearing sleep pants and a t-shirt. We agreed no skimpy clothes until she's cleared for some fun activities.
Can't tell if she's thinking out loud or actually wants me to answer.
"They're all going to swear loyalty to me not him."
I'm laying on my side, with my hand above her head, running my fingers through her short hair. Red tips were a good idea. Makes her look like she's on fire.
"And we're going to be living on the compound."
We went through our assignments earlier. Fucking biology.
"Maybe I could run it as a branch of Dad's?"
My eyes started to close, and I jerked awake.
"If I keep it, do I rename it? Does our kid inherit all three?"
Her hand shook me awake, "Hey, Asshole? Am I boring you?"
"Nope."
"What do you think?"
"You really want my advice?"
"Yes, but I'll deny it later."
I barked out a laugh and thought for a minute. "You can't combine it with the Himura Syndicate. Dai gave it to you. You earned it. They're swearing loyalty to you, not your dad."
"And?"
"And you'll have to rename it. But not Himura. Can't have two."
"Then what?"
"How about an old family name? Like your grandmother's maiden name or some shit."
"That works. I'll dig one up I like." She rolled over to face me, "And our kid gets all three?"
"Who said we're only having one kid?"
"Don't get ahead of yourself, Asshole. We're still in high school."
"I know," I leaned forward and kissed her gently. "I figure we have a few years before the kids start coming."
"Read my mind." Then she smirked, "I could save this one for our daughter."
"Sounds good."
.
xXx
.
Night, Koi Pond, Morinozuka Estate:
Dear Mom and Dad,
Don't worry if you can't read this. I can't either. Stupid left hand.
I'm sorry I couldn't visit you today. So much has happened, I don't even know where to start…
…and they were waiting for me at the cemetery.
What's the matter with people that they would even think to do that?
I'll come and visit as soon as security will let me.
I love you.
Your Haruhi
.
I know I worried Takashi by being so quiet, but I just don't have words right now.
Everything's so muddled, and the world's gone crazy.
I tossed another handful of food in and watched the fish feed.
The cats followed me down here. I hope they don't jump in.
.
xXx
.
.
xXx
.
Author's Note:
Sorry if the cemetery came out of nowhere. There is a plan…
KidZania is a real place and looks like a total blast. I'd take my nieces and nephew if we lived near one. Just picture Kyoya in a kid-sized bus, his knees up to his chest, and actually enjoying himself.
Not only did Dad laugh at the soap part, but he said, "I don't even use soap on my face," though I think he means he doesn't use the bar of Ivory in the shower.
I did the setup for the Ogata security consultation but won't be diving into it too much. Just don't want to do all the research to make the upgrades believable. If you think of something they should change/add let me know. We'll probably check in with them randomly as they recommend things that I'll have to discuss, such as Haruhi's new team lead. I'm not planning on Mori's team lead Nagata to stay her lead. She needs someone with celebrity experience. Maybe someone with Hollywood experience.
Hope you aren't getting sick of Haruhi having problems. It's only been 8 months since Ranka died and Kyoya kidnapped her, then she's been in two shootings (Ritsu's noodle place with Ronin and the baseball stadium), the bombing, and then the kidnapping. She's dealing with some serious PTSD. She'll get worse before she gets better, but I hope to not focus too much on it. Almost everyone gets a 'painful truth' in this story and the rest are coming up soon.
Now that I've done the background, there won't be much 'nuts and bolts' of Bu's new syndicate. I'll touch on it every so often. There will be some fun and fluff with the redecorating. I figured her solutions were totally her. Anyone have a name suggestion?
So…Hika's on TikTok. I'm late to that party. Just started watching way too much of it a few months ago. Figured I'd start incorporating it since Instagram and Twitter seem to be dying for the kids out there. Don't bother looking up my account. I haven't posted any videos. I'm just watching and learning.
Should they move Ranka, Kotoko, and Jarou? Dad and I haven't decided yet.
BTW – any spelling/grammar errors in the texting and tweets is deliberate.
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Next Chapter:
More cemetery fall out…Mori's Board meeting…update on Yoshio's basement…the Check presentations…Lots of fluff…and we find out about the leak at the hospital.
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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.