Author's Note:

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

If you're new to this soap opera, go back to the first story – "The Last Straw". Otherwise, none of this will make any sense. Give it a chance. The first story is a little rough, but I get better as I go along.

Warning: You all know how the last story ended. This one will be darker than the others but will keep its T rating. I'm treading a line between a PG-13 movie and a "Criminal Minds" episode. Violence will not be written in gory detail but will be written as it happens. Non-con will be kept to the level of previous stories. There will also be lots of language, just like the other stories. That doesn't mean there won't be enough fluff to give all of you cavities.

As with all the other stories, individual warnings for each chapter.

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

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xXx

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Date Posted: August 27, 2022

Trigger Warnings: Language, Some Violence

The Hard Truth - Chapter 1: Who's Been Kidnapped?

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Sunday, September 25:

Mid-Afternoon, Tokyo Harbor somewhere:

I watched as the van flew off the end of the dock and took forever to hit the water. It sunk like a stone in less than a second.

"Nooooo!"

Kono jumped out as our car skidded to a stop. He was in the water before I could open my door.

"REPORT!" Oshiro-sama's voice came out of the radio in a roar.

"Van went off the dock and into the water. Kono went in after it." I looked down but couldn't see far in the dark water. "I'm going in after him."

"No." I stood in the salty spray, smelling the ocean, waiting for my orders. No one disobeys Oshiro-sama. "Backup should be pulling up now. Let them. You're in charge of the scene."

Just what every random driver employed by the Morinozuka's wants. To be in charge of a huge security fuckup.

"Confirmed." I looked over my shoulder at the cars pulling up. I had to lock my knees to not slump over.

.

Haruhi-sama's driver pointed to the end of the dock as we dashed past him, hitting the water as Kono surfaced.

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"KONO!"

"Motherfucker!" I shook my head to clear the hair off my face. "Nothing. No one's down there."

"What?"

"You heard me. No one."

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:

"Two?" I looked back and forth between the cars. "Why the fuck are there two?"

"Two's better than one, isn't it boss?"

Fucking idiots.

What am I going to do with the other one? Leverage?

"Zip-tie and duct tape them to chairs. Blindfolds and gags. Put that one in the closet over there," I pointed across the huge room, "and the other in a closet on the other side of the building."

I turned and left the room but not before I saw them 'handling' them more than necessary.

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Tokyo Harbor somewhere:

"Nothing down there but this," Kono tossed a black ball of fabric up on the dock. "It's Shinobu-sama's miniskirt." Next was a green mess. "Haruhi-sama's shirt."

"They stripped them?"

The others started to surface. "No bodies."

I relayed all this to Oshiro-sama. "Keep checking. We'll send some divers."

"Cancel them," Hibino-sama's voice came through the radio. "Ours are closer."

The Himura syndicate has divers?

"Kono, come back once they get there."

"Confirmed."

I watched him go under again.

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Mid-Afternoon, Security Conference Call:

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "We need to bring all the other group security heads onto the call."

Junto (Shinobu's Father): "I'll call Ryuu personally. He and Fujii will come to my compound."

Hibino (Himura Head): "Fine. Send the alert."

Alert message sent to all group security headquarters, requesting security heads join the call. They reported in as they arrived. Once they were on…

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Haruhi-sama and Shinobu-sama have been kidnapped. They were taken at 2:24 pm, thirty-two minutes ago, from the Petto Chinmi store closest to the Himura compound."

Fortunately, security heads know not to interrupt.

"Slick job. Came in as delivery van, tranked the guards in the alley then all in the store. Both girls gone. Kono and Haruhi-sama's driver, the only ones guarding the front and therefore not tranked, called it in. We activated the tracker in Haruhi-sama's shoes, and they followed.

"There was a period of approximately 14 minutes before we had them in sight. The van headed for a smaller set of warehouses and docks in a rundown part of Ota City. Kono and the driver got there in time to see the van drive off the end of the dock."

Unknown: "Shit."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Kono jumped in after. No bodies found."

Hibino (Himura Head): "I have divers on the way. Not expecting to find anything but need a thorough search. They'll also get the van out." I cleared my throat. This is the part that makes me see red. "They found their clothes. Divers will let us know immediately if they find anything else."

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "Kono?"

Hibino (Himura Head): "Will return here after divers arrive."

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "I assume you recorded the tracker in the van. Let's see their route. Maybe that will tell us something."

Kondo (Ootori Head): As we watched the screen, I asked, "And the pet store?"

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "We've taken control of that scene. Medics and forensics have arrived."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "Bring the tranked guards to the Ootori hospital closest to the Morinozuka estate. We can guarantee anonymity and have the space for questioning." If they were my guards, I'd hold them in chains until they woke up and then start an extremely difficult interrogation, but I know Oshiro doesn't have the stomach for that.

Hibino (Himura Head): "I want my guards on my compound."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Kondo's got a point. If they were all together, we'd get the story faster."

Hibino (Himura Head): "Fine. Separate rooms. I don't want them to have time to get their story straight before we talk to them."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "Agreed." And exactly what I was going to do anyway.

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "Right there. Why did they stop so long right there?"

Unknown: "Red light?"

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "I'm sending a team out there right now."

Hibino (Himura Head): "Me too."

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Ootori Private Plane over the Pacific Ocean:

I hung up, reached forward, and pressed the intercom, "Turn the plane around. Fastest possible speed to Tokyo."

"Yes, Ootori-sama."

"Kyoya?"

Johnathan, Abby, and Keiko were all staring at me. "There's a security emergency. I'll have a plane standing by to take you back to California when we land. I apologize, but it can't be avoided."

With that, I headed for my private office to join the conference call.

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Security Conference Call:

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "Which one were they after? It's unlikely they wanted them both for the same thing."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Unless it's the beginning of a group attack."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "It's a risk we can't take. Everyone call their codes and get the primaries to this estate. We'll protect them here."

Each head passed the order to their team.

Kyoya joins call

Kyoya: "What the hell's going on? Please tell me you've got the rest of them on lockdown."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "Yes, Kyoya-sama. We've all just called the extraction code." And before he could interrupt, "BOS officers are also on the way to the Shido estate to lock it down."

Kyoya: "Good."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Suggest each of you send surveillance teams to your extraction point. We need to know if there's evidence the other primaries are in danger."

Kyoya: "Feed the location info to Morimoto at the BOS. Our teams can take that responsibility."

Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Agreed. We're ready to mobilize."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Confirmed." I took a deep breath, "As soon as all the primaries have been extracted, we need to inform the parents."

Unknown: "Shit."

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Dorm Lounge, Todi:

"Mitsukuni-sama. Code Red."

I nodded to Akatsuka-san and turned to my study group, "I apologize, but I need to go. I'll email you later. Maybe we can reschedule."

I left quickly, Akatsuka-san following.

.

"What the hell was that?"

"All of a sudden he started acting like an adult."

"Weird."

"What do you think happened?"

"No idea."

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Once Mitsukuni-sama was safely in the limo, I climbed in after him. "Electronics." He handed his phone and laptop over, and I powered them down.

"Who?"

"Fujioka and Himura."

"Where?"

"Morinozuka estate within thirty."

The hard look in his eyes caused many hardened veterans to flinch. The driver increased his speed.

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Noguchi Gallery:

"A raise?"

"Yes, Suoh-sama."

It was then I realized I've been taking advantage of Sukuno-san's experience and history with the gallery. A quick look and I saw a blotchy blush and one of Kaoru's suits. She's been invaluable.

"A raise is an excellent idea, Sukuno-san." Her smile said it all. "Will 40% work?"

Her throat strained as she swallowed hard. It's quite a jump, but we can afford it. And she's worth it.

"Yes, Suoh-sama. That is quite generous."

"You haven't received a pay increase since I took over. Negligence on my part. I'll contact our HR firm and take care of it right away."

"Thank you, Suoh-sama."

That's when the door opened, and my detail head, Tabata-san came in. "Tamaki-sama, we have a code yellow. I need you to come with me."

"Yellow?" I know I should know what that means. Something familiar…

"Sir, please come with me."

.

He's usually much more reactive than this. I took a closer look at his face…eyes narrowed, brow furrowed. Of course, he doesn't remember what the code means.

"Please gather your things and come with me now." I turned to his assistant, "He'll contact you later and schedule a time to continue your meeting."

"Yellow?"

"I'll explain in the car, Sir."

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Library, Medical School:

How can they not have a copy? They can't all be checked out. I'll just order one. It will be a good reference anyway. Besides…

"Akito-sama."

"Yes, Teraughi?"

"We have a code yellow. You need to come with me."

Yellow. Security emergency with someone in the group.

"Yuki?" Would she be yellow or red? She's practically family.

"No, Sir."

I grabbed my stuff and followed him out to the car, still shoving papers and books in my bag.

Who?

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Commoner Shopping Mall:

Kenzo and I were holding back the fan girls when the code came through our earbuds. I flashed him a look and got a return nod. He'll stay with the girls, and I'll inform the twins.

.

Seiichi practically grabbed my arm and pulled me away from the selfie some fan was taking with me.

"What the hell? That better not get posted and tagged."

"We have a security emergency."

Oh. Is that all. "Another fucking test?" There were more than twenty girls hanging around. "Ignore it. Can't disappoint them."

I ripped my arm out of his grasp and headed back. Only got two steps. "It's a code yellow. It's not a test."

"Well, shit. Why didn't you say so?"

I dropped the clothes in my hand and grabbed Kaoru. "Thanks so much for all your support my lovely ladies."

"Hika?"

"Yellow. Drop your shit. Let's go."

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Russia Sushi, Ikebukuro:

"She was lighter than a feather on her feet. A perfect dance partner."

"The pictures were so romantic."

Romantic? The Princess? She's a lot older than me.

"After the dance, she asked me to introduce her to the various charities. Gracious. There's no better word to describe her interactions. Genuinely interested."

That's when Oura caught my eye. He came up to the table and leaned down to my ear, "Red."

Shit.

One of the glasses spilled over when I stood up. Red. Family.

"Ladies, thank you so much for your interest in my evening and your company today. However, I lost track of time and have a family event I'm late for. Please finish your meals. I'll make sure the waiter knows to keep the food coming for a while."

By this time, the waiter had come over. "Sir?"

"I must leave, but please keep serving these lovely ladies another 70,000 yen [~$700] of your delicious food." That should be enough.

Oura wouldn't answer my questions until we were in the limo, and my electronics were powered down.

"Haruhi-sama and Shinobu-sama."

I don't think I broke the intercom button, "Faster!"

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Outdoor Pool, Houshakuji Estate:

"I changed the entire flower order after she passed."

"What did Tamaki say?"

"He doesn't know. He doesn't really care about the details as long as I'm happy."

Cho finally got off the float and into the water. Thought she was going to eat her weight in ice cream. "What about your marriage contract?"

"Mother says it won't be long before I can review it."

She turned around and swum toward the edge, but not before I saw the blush. "What?"

"What?"

"There's something weird about it. What?"

She pushed off the side and came closer to me. "You can't tell anyone."

"Of course, I won't."

"There's a geisha clause."

Then my security head ruined it. "Renge-sama, we have a code yellow. Both you and Cho-sama need to come with me right away. We're meeting at the Morinozuka estate."

"Yellow?" Cho looked confused. It's easy to forget her family isn't at our level.

I pushed her towards the edge. "Security emergency with someone in the group. Let's go."

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Ball Venue, Tokyo:

"Those are all my questions, Haninozuka-sama. The event went quite well from a logistical standpoint. Only the usual hiccups. None of the attendees noticed."

"A couple noticed the cat."

"True, however those that did thought it was either cute or lucky." He cocked his head to the side, "We haven't located it today."

"And you won't. It made its way into one of the board member's cars last night and adopted her."

"Well then, a successful night for all involved."

"Yes. The On Okuri board is quite pleased."

I'd finally gotten away from the venue manager when Koba-san walked up to me. "Red."

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One of the advantages of guarding Yasuchika-sama is he doesn't ask questions at inappropriate times.

With a quick nod, he followed us out to the car, ripping the door open before one of us could reach the handle.

"Who?"

"Fujioka and Himura."

"Two?"

"Yes, Sir. Kidnapped." He leaned back and stared at the ceiling. "Sir, I need your electronics."

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Commoner's Park, Tokyo:

I got the code in my earbud and headed towards the park bench. I think she's asleep.

"Yuki-sama," I gently touched her shoulder.

"AAaahhh!" Her scream gathered the attention of everyone in the park. "What? Tani-san, you scared me."

"I apologize. We have a security code yellow. Fujioka's been kidnapped."

"Haruhi!" Her camera crashed to the ground as she jumped up.

"We need to leave now." I grabbed the camera. "Get your bag and come with me."

But she just stood there. "Haruhi's been kidnapped." By this time, the entire park was staring at us.

I gently took her elbow and guided her to the limo.

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Meditation Room, Mori's and Honey's Apartment:

There was a knock on the door. "Takashi-sama?"

My eyes opened and focused on Nagata-san, my detail head. Paler than normal. Slightly out of breath.

"Code Red. We're gathering at your estate."

I beat him to the car.

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xXx

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Mid-Afternoon, Security Conference Call:

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Check your monitors. This is a stream from the location where the van stopped. Only thing of interest in the area is this warehouse. It's been cleared."

Stream shows inside of warehouse.

Kondo (Ootori Head): "What's that?"

Camera pans back and focuses

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "That's one of Haruhi-sama's socks."

Unknown: "Shit."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Cut the chatter unless you have something helpful to say." I focused back on the sock. "Now we know where the switch happened."

Camera continues to sweep the warehouse

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Tracks in the dust. At least one car."

Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Looks too blurred to identify, but we'll send a team."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Confirmed."

Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Will also start a sweep of traffic cameras in the area to identify the car or cars."

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "You can do that?"

Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Yes and without alerting the police that we're searching."

I pulled up a different screen. Good. "Surveillance teams are starting to report back. No evidence any of the other group members were being watched."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "With that information, it's time to discuss which girl was the primary target and why. Ideas?"

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Those letters. Fujioka-sama was asked about them on the red-carpet last night."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "Himura-sama's a yakuza heir. More likely she was primary target."

Hibino (Himura Head): "No current threats. She's not into anything on her own that's syndicate business. She's working on the legal business side."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "Even without a current threat, still more likely she was primary target."

Hibino (Himura Head): "Fujii and I will explore that through our channels, but it doesn't feel like a yakuza kidnapping."

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "More bad news…There's a hashtag."

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xXx

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Afternoon, Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:

"Ladies, if you could take a seat, we're waiting for the rest before we explain what's going on."

Umeko-san and Kumi-san were putting up a brave front, but I could tell they were worried. Especially Umeko-san.

I couldn't get any information out of my security detail. Shimizu just took our phones and told us where we were going. To be fair, she might not have actually known anything, but I'm finding out now.

I took a guess. "Haruhi?"

Umeko-san's head whipped towards me so fast I flinched. "We'll discuss that when everyone else arrives, Renge-chan."

Cho's eyes were huge, her face almost white. Based on what I've seen so far, I can reassure her some. I kept my voice low, not wanting to upset our hosts.

"We're here and Umeko-san is worried considerably more than she's letting on, so this must involve Haruhi. We're not being taken to a hospital, so she's not hurt." Cho reached out and grabbed my hand. "We'll have to wait, but I trust them both to keep us as informed as we need to be."

"Haruhi?" I had to strain to hear her.

I put my arm around her and hugged her close. "We'll know more soon."

There's something more going on here. We're in the game room not a lounge. No windows here. They want us all together for our safety.

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"Renge-chan's too smart for her own good."

I know her better than Kumi does. "She needs to be. As a Suoh, she'll need to read a room as soon as she enters, assess who needs what, and take care of it. Look," I nodded towards the girls, "she's already calmed Cho-chan down."

That's when the Hitachiin twins burst into the room.

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"What's going on! Our security wouldn't tell us shit."

Kumi-san went pale, and her gasp wasn't quiet. Guess I am my brother's keeper today. "Calm down, Hika. They'll tell us." I dragged him over to a sofa across from Renge and Cho-senpai. "And watch your language. We aren't at home." I had to push him into the seat.

"Kenzo said yellow. That's a group member." Eyes narrowed, he glared at Umeko-san. I mirrored his look. "Who?"

"When everyone is here, we'll explain everything."

"But…"

"Hikaru," we turned to Renge, "please calm down. Pace if you must but stop asking questions. It won't get you information any sooner."

"Do you know what's going on?"

She shook her head, "No more than you do, Kaoru."

Hikaru started pacing, and I joined him.

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xXx

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Twitter:

#FujiokaHaruhi kidnapped? Just overheard some security guard and one of her friends. Do you think it's true? #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi

#FujiokaHaruhi the model kidnapped! #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped! [forwarding above tweet]

#FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped – Hey OP! Pic or it didn't happen

They made it to the car before I could get one, but I know what I heard. #FujiokaHaruhi #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #HitachiinModel #Everywoman #PettoChinmi

.

xXx

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Afternoon, Security Conference Call:

Junto (Shinobu's Father): "What the absolute fuck! Which of your security detail heads is so fucking stupid they'd be overheard!

Ryuu (Ritsu's Father): "And what the fuck were they doing saying that in public in the first place?"

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Obviously happened in public. Therefore, could only be the twins, Yuki-sama, Tamaki-sama, Akito-sama, or Satoshi-sama. Our security will debrief all security heads immediately. They all need to be caught up anyway."

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "We'll have to pull in our PR departments and spokespeople too."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Only after we know how this leaked."

Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Agreed."

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xXx

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Afternoon, Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:

Umeko's right. Renge-chan is handling this so well. I'm so glad she arrived first.

She didn't need to say anything to Yasuchika-kun when he walked in.

"Mother," he said with a nod, then assessed the room, sat in a chair, and waited. Martial arts teaches patience and discipline. We'll need every bit of that when Takashi arrives.

A blond blur went by, scooping Renge-chan up in a bone-crushing hug. "I was so worried about you. They wouldn't tell me anything in the car. Just took my phone and said we were coming here."

"Relax, Tamaki-kun. I'm fine." She kissed him gently then stared in his eyes. "You were told yellow, correct?"

"Yellow."

"That's a group member. If it was me, it would have been red. We're considered family since we're engaged."

"But who?"

"Umeko-san and Kumi-san will tell us when everyone is here."

That's when he realized he and Renge-chan weren't the only two in the room. "My apologizes, Umeko-san, Kumi-san. I didn't see you." Amazing how the Suoh training kicks in during a crisis.

"Perfectly understandable, Tamaki-kun." Umeko gestured to the sofa where Renge-chan had been sitting and where Cho-chan still was. "Please take a seat. We're waiting on just a few more."

"Haruhi's been kidnapped!"

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xXx

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Ootori Private Plane, Over the Pacific:

I hit mute and growled at Tachibana, "Yuki's on that list. Talk to her head before they do. Clear him or kill him."

He raised a brow at me.

"Clear him or stuff him in a cell."

"And Akito-sama?"

"His guard's been with him so long. I'm not worried about him."

He nodded, and I turned back to the call in time to hear the traffic camera report.

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xXx

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Afternoon, Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:

"Haruhi?" Tamaki-senpai's head came up from Renge's shoulder. Idiot still hasn't processed what's going on.

"What!" I couldn't stop Hika from grabbing Yuki, but Chika could. Hika was screaming at Yuki as Chika pulled him away. "What are you saying? Haruhi! Where is she? How do you know?"

"Sit, Hikaru-senpai, or I'll tie you to the chair."

"Get the fuck off me, Chika. It's Haruhi! It's my triplet!"

"Hika," I sat on him after Chika pushed him into the sofa. "Sit still, and they'll tell us."

Chika held him down by his shoulders and nodded to me.

"They fucking better."

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Mother stepped up and put her arm around her, "Why would you think that, Yuki-chan?"

"Security said…" She clearly doesn't realize what a breach that was. Her guard is a BOS officer. He won't be working in Japan much longer.

"We're waiting for everyone to arrive before we explain what's going on. How about you sit down and have a cup of tea."

"But what about Haruhi?"

"Yeah, what about Haruhi?" I squeezed Hikaru-senpai's shoulders until he winced.

"Everyone else will be here any minute and we'll explain."

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xXx

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Afternoon, Security Conference Call:

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "All group members have arrived at estate. Suggest everyone contact the parents."

Parents contacted and briefed by their security heads and start to join the call as they make their way to their respective security headquarters.

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "All your children are safe at the Morinozuka estate. Once they've been briefed on the events, you're cleared to talk to them. Plan for them to be here for at least two days. Send over things they'll need."

Houshakuji Reyard (Renge's father joining from France): "Are any of them targets? Is my daughter a target?"

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Unknown. Surveillance teams dispatched to investigate extraction points have reported back with no evidence anyone was being watched."

They aren't going to like this. "Parents, we request that you hold yourselves off the conversation. Please let your respective heads catch you up and let them ask the questions."

I heard the twins mother start to speak before her security head hit mute.

.

xXx

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Afternoon, Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:

Mitsukuni, Akito-san, and Satoshi were the next to arrive. Where is my older son? He should be here by now.

Akito-san went straight to Yuki-chan and held her tight. She'd already been crying but burst into sobs when he pulled her onto his lap. "It's Haruhi, but no one will say anything. I don't know what's going on. I don't understand."

"I know. It will be alright. They'll tell us soon." He mopped her face with his handkerchief. "You're safe. I'm safe. We need to be strong for whatever is happening."

"Cho-chan!" Mitsukuni scooped her up in his arms. "It will be alright. I promise."

Satoshi stood near the door, arms crossed and staring at me. My younger son needs to learn more control. "Don't make promises you can't keep, Mitsukuni." I don't think my nephew heard him.

"Will someone tell me what the hell is going on!"

Mitsukuni joined Chika in keeping Hikaru-kun in his seat. Short of gagging him, there's not much to be done about the yelling.

"Mother." Takashi stood in the doorway.

"About time, bro. Now we can find out what's going on."

"What about Ritsu and Shinobu? They aren't here yet."

Renge-chan's answer to Cho-chan's question was half right. "They can't be seen at this estate. I'm sure they're safe in their compounds."

"Mother." So much emotion straining in his voice. "Nagata told me to come here first. I need to go to security."

"You will sit," I pointed to an empty sofa. "You as well, Satoshi."

Akira took in the room as he walked through the door. "Sit Takashi. Now." His looks sent everyone still standing scurrying for a seat.

"I'll make this as quick as I can." He checked his watch, "Approximately sixty minutes ago, Haruhi-chan and Shinobu-san were kidnapped from the Petto Chinmi store closest to the Himura estate."

The room went crazy.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Security Conference Call:

Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "No traffic cameras pointed directly at the warehouse. Are documenting and following up all vehicles in the area from an hour before the van arrives to present. All vehicles parked in the area are also being investigated."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "We need a list of all stolen vehicles within the last two weeks. Can you get that without causing waves, Morimoto? I want to keep this away from our police contact for as long as possible."

Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Yes. The fewer that know about this the better. With social media already buzzing, we need plausible deniability for as long as possible."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:

"If you are not immediately silent, I will hold you here in this room with no information until I see fit to come back."

Instant quiet. Good. Hikaru-kun slammed his mouth shut so fast, he bit his tongue and winced hard.

I must pull back my anger. None of these kids are at fault.

"No more interruptions. Am I clear?"

Nods all around.

"Reasons and those responsible are as yet unknown. We have no information about their whereabouts or physical condition. We have no ransom demands."

Satoshi's face turned red as he stopped himself from speaking.

"You were all brought here because we weren't sure they were the only targets. However, surveillance teams at your extraction points report nothing suspicious.

"Our current operating theory is Haruhi-chan was taken by a group opposed to her public opinions regarding personal issues."

"Condoms, tampons, and sex," Umeko supplied. I nodded in thanks.

"And Shinobu-san was taken as leverage against her."

"But…"

My glare shut Tamaki-kun down.

"We will be keeping you here for the foreseeable future as a precaution. Your parents have been notified, and you may speak with them after I'm done here."

My phone chimed, the text requesting me back at security.

"I'll be sending one of my officers down to go through the details with you and answer any questions.

"Know that you are safe here, and we are doing everything possible to bring them back."

I gave Umeko's arm a reassuring squeeze and headed for the door.

"Father," I paused and turned to Takashi, "I'm coming with you."

Mitsukuni stood and said, "Me too."

Then Satoshi, then Chika. Before everyone could demand I held up my hand for silence again. "Takashi and Mitsukuni come with me. Chika, Satoshi, you are needed here."

"I want my phone back." That must be Hikaru.

"No. All electronic devices are being held in a Faraday box and will be checked for security issues."

.

As my husband and the boys…no, they're men…left the room, the maids started bringing in a buffet and stocking the bar with both cold and hot non-alcoholic drinks.

Kumi did the announcement. "Please keep calm. There's plenty to eat and drink if anyone wants to. There are several house phones in this room and adjacent ones if you wish to call your parents. Dial nine for an outside line.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Security Headquarters, Morinozuka Estate:

I can't breathe. I can't hear anything. The blood's pounding in my ears.

Haruhi and I are finally together. After everything that's happened. This isn't real. It can't be.

"There's more, Uncle. What is it?"

"Sit down, and I'll catch you up."

Mitsukuni led me to a chair and made me sit.

My Haruhi. What has happened to you?

.

xXx

.

Afternoon: Parent Phone Calls:

Hitachiin:

Yuzuha: "Are you boys alright?"

Hikaru: "Alright? You want to know if we're alright? No, Mother. We're not fucking alright. Haruhi's gone and no one knows a damn thing!"

Karou: "Hika, calm down. Your anger isn't helping things."

Hikaru: "Well, it's sure as shit isn't hurting things."

Yuzuha: "It's upsetting the rest of your friends. All of you are trying to hold on, and you aren't helping them." Why did he have to get my fiery personality without any of my control? "Now take a breath and focus on what you can do."

Hikaru: "I can't do shit. They took our phones. We're locked in the game room."

Yuzuha: "You can keep calm and be ready. Support your friends. I'm sure Takashi's going crazy over there."

Hikaru: "He's with security. He's finding out stuff."

Karou: "Aside from locking him up, do you really think anyone could stop him?"

Hikaru: "Whatever."

Yuzuha: "The maids are packing your bags. Call them if there's something specific you want. Stay out of security's way. And Hikaru?"

Hikaru: "Yeah?"

Yuzuha: "Do you need a sedative?"

Hikaru: "No!"

Kaoru: "Yes."

Yuzuha: With that I hung up.

.

Houshakuji:

Reynard: "How are you holding up?"

Renge: "Fine. I've got to be strong for Tamaki-kun and others that can't be. I'm sure I'll fall apart later."

Reynard: "Don't dismiss taking care of yourself."

Renge: "I won't."

Reynard: "Don't leave the Morinozuka estate until you've discussed it with me. Even if they say it's safe, I want to talk to you first."

Renge: "Alright."

Reynard: "No one's going to tell either of us we can't call each other, so you keep me up to date on the kids, and I'll let you know what I'm learning on my end."

Renge: "They haven't told us much."

Reynard: "Here's what I know so far…"

He tells her about the tranquilizers, van, dock, clothes, warehouse, Twitter, and the letters.

Reynard: "Keep all that to yourself. You need to know to help the others, but they don't necessarily need to know."

Renge: "No kidding. Hikaru and Tamaki-kun would completely lose it if they knew all that." There's no way I'm telling anyone any of that. Maybe Akito, but only because he's a doctor and knows how to keep his head on straight. "Thanks for telling me."

Reynard: "You're welcome. I love you, Renge. Let me know if you need anything."

Renge: "I will. I love you too."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Security Conference Room, Morinozuka Estate:

Finally. They're finally letting me do something productive. If I wasn't in this damn wheelchair, I'd be kicking everyone's ass. How dare they let Haruhi-sama be kidnapped. I'm going to kill Miwa. He was in the room with her. He's got no excuse.

That's it…I'm never leaving her alone again. Every time she's out there without me, something horrible happens.

And now I have to brief the detail heads and find out which one of these idiots leaked the kidnapping and put Haruhi-sama in even more danger.

"I'll go through the events up until now. No interrupting. I'll answer questions when I'm done."

"Sure, Eiji."

"OK."

Several more nodded.

I took a deep breath and started.

.

As I listened to Eiji's briefing, I also reviewed what happened when I pulled Tamaki-sama out of the gallery.

Flashback…

"Yellow?"

"Wait until we're in the limo. I'll explain." I reach out my hand, "I need your phone."

He handed it over without a comment.

"Do you have any other electronics with you?"

"Electronics?"

Damn, he's out of it. But I'd rather have this Tamaki-sama than the one who jumps around and hides in corners. Haruhi-sama and Renge-sama have been a good influence.

"Laptop? Tablet? Another phone?"

"Noooo. That's it."

The limo door shut behind us. "Yellow is a security emergency for one of the group. We're going to the Morinozuka estate for more information."

"Who?"

"I wasn't told."

"Renge-chan?"

"I wasn't told." Guess I'll give him this, "If it was her, it would be a Red, meaning it's one of your family."

"I want to see her. I want to see her with my own eyes."

"We're almost there."

…End Flashback.

Clearly, I didn't leak it.

.

"At this moment, we don't believe any of your primaries are in danger. There's been no evidence of them being watched or a suspicious presence at the extraction points. They'll stay here for now as a precaution and to keep their communications with the outside world at a minimum."

Eiji's eyes flicked to all of us. Hard as steel. His anger's completely justified. If one of them had compromised Mitsukuni-sama, I'd be out for blood too.

"Questions?"

Shimizu, Renge-sama's head, had the first one. "What's the status of the tranked guards at the pet store?"

"They've been taken to an Ootori hospital and haven't regained consciousness yet. As soon as this is over, I'm headed there."

That's going to be an ugly interrogation. I wonder if he wants help.

"Still no communication?"

Why ask a question that's already been answered? I thought we were all professionals here. Guess I'll give the twins a break. They aren't Morinozuka or Haninozuka trained.

"None. All phone lines are prepared for a trace should they call in."

If no one else is going to ask the obvious, I will. "All our primaries are here for the foreseeable future. What can we do to help?"

"Oshiro-san will be assigning duties to everyone soon. Probably when this meeting breaks up."

"What's the working theory of what they'd want Haruhi-sama for if not ransom?"

"If it is the group writing the letters, we're watching for a forced social media post taking back the things she's said regarding sex and tampons."

"Nothing like that on the hashtag?"

"No. Still amateur hour on that."

He punched a button, and the screen behind him lit up with a tweet.

"Speaking of…which one of you idiots is responsible for this?"

.

No one looks guilty. Either they don't know they're the cause of the leak, which makes them a bigger idiot than I thought, or they're a good actor.

"Renge-sama, Takashi-sama, and Cho-sama weren't informed in public, so it didn't come from them."

I started with the most obvious, Kenzo and Seiichi, the twins' guards. I glared at them, "Walk us through how you informed your primaries and what happened."

"…And that's when the limo door closed. We couldn't answer any of their questions because we didn't know who or that it was a kidnapping."

"Fine. Tabata?" Tamaki-sama's detail head is my next suspect.

"He couldn't remember what 'Yellow' meant, and I didn't explain until the limo door was closed. I didn't know who or what happened until we arrived here, so I couldn't answer his questions."

"I told Akito-sama we had a code yellow, and he needed to come with me. He asked if it was Yuki-sama. I told him no. That's it until he arrived here."

Not surprised. Ootori's and doctors know how to wait for information until it's needed.

Koba spoke up next. "Yasuchika was given the code but didn't ask a question until the limo door was closed. There wasn't anyone within hearing distance when I have him the code."

I'm not even going to bother with Akatsuka-san. Mitsukuni would never make that mistake.

"Ah…Eiji-san?"

"Yes, Tani?" Here is comes. He was my most likely, but I wanted him to sweat while I ran through the others.

"I believe Yuki-sama's responsible. When I informed her that Fujioka-sama was kidnapped, she did raise her voice when she replied."

"You are blaming your primary?" Teraughi asked. As Akito-sama's head and a BOS officer, I let him continue. "You broke Ootori and Black Onion Squad protocol by not only telling your primary what was going on, but telling them in public, and you're blaming her?"

"Well…"

"You've said enough. Sit there and be quiet."

I cleared my throat, and Tani had the self-preservation to flinch at my glare. "This meeting is adjourned. Tani, you will remain."

As they filed out, I heard several comments.

"Hikaru-sama doesn't need to know any details. Don't want to peel him off the ceiling."

"Tamaki-sama doesn't need to know either."

"Yasuchika-sama and Satoshi-sama probably should be told. Takashi-sama and Mitsukuni-sama will have already been briefed."

Teraughi threw me a glance over his shoulder. I could tell he wanted to stay, but he's not Tani's superior and won't be involved in what happens to him.

Once the door closed, I turned to the man who had endangered my Haruhi-sama. "We need to have a conversation with Kondo-san, Morimoto-san, and Ootori-sama."

He swallowed hard and nodded.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Parent Phone Calls:

Cho:

Daizo (Father): "I knew allowing you to become involved with Haninozuka Mitsukuni was a mistake. Look what he's involved you in."

Cho: "But, Father, it isn't his fault. We're all friends with Haruhi and Shinobu."

Daizo: "To think that my daughter could be entangled with a yakuza syndicate. And not just one, but two!"

Cho: "It isn't like that. We're friends. We have nothing to do with their business."

Daizo: "I'll be speaking with Yorihisa to demand you are returned to our estate. I no longer trust you with those people."

Cho: Honey-kun! My marriage contract! "But father, we're getting married."

Daizo: "The contract isn't signed." Nomura, I know this will hurt you, but it has gone on long enough. "You'll be home within the hour."

Cho: It's my life, not his. I'm eighteen. "No, I will not. I'm safest here with Honey-kun."

Daizo: "Nomura!"

Cho: "I've made my decision." And I hung up.

Then Renge and Yuki were beside me, holding me up with their support.

.

Ootori:

Kyoya: "Fuyumi and Sota are fine. The Black Onion Squad had tripled their guard. I believe it is unnecessary, but with them guarded, we can both worry about other things."

Akito: "Thanks for that. Yuki needs my full attention now."

Kyoya: "You can call my private cell anytime. Keep me informed."

Akito: "As long as you let me know what's going on. If I know beforehand what's coming, I can help them deal with it."

Kyoya: "Fine. I'll speak with you later."

Akito: "Kyoya, you'll find her. I know you will."

Kyoya: "Of course, I will. And those that took her will regret it for the rest of their very short lives."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Security Conference Call:

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "We're in agreement about the letters."

Kondo (Ootori Head): No, we're not, but he's not listening to me anymore. We'll investigate other avenues on our own.

Kawabata (Suoh Head): "Agreed, but not hearing from them doesn't make sense."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "It's been less than three hours."

Kawabata (Suoh Head): "Feels like days already."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Does anyone have anything to add about the letters that we haven't heard yet?"

Kyoya: "The BOS will send copies to their contact at the American FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit. They can give us a fresh profile."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "That would be appreciated. We've been staring at the same facts for too long. We need a new perspective."

Lengthy discussion about letters, motives, and threat level to Haruhi while they have her.

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Enough. We can only chew old food for so long." And I need some fresh air to clear my head. "Since the group is here, from now on I want to run this like St. Louis. I know your people well and some of them would be helpful here. I'll post a list to the shared chat. Please send them over."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Security Headquarters, Himura Compound:

Junto hit mute and glared at me. "You don't really think someone kidnapped my daughter as leverage over Fujioka-san because she said something about sex on Twitter, do you?"

"Unless they didn't know who she is. Her face isn't that known."

"It was all over the news last night, same as your son's." He scrubbed his hands through his hair. "They walked the fucking red carpet for fuck's sake."

He's right. It just doesn't make sense. The whole kidnapping Haruhi-chan because she said 'condoms' and 'tampons' on Twitter thing doesn't make sense. "OK. Say you're right. Then what's Shinobu-chan into?"

"Nothing specific to the Syndicate, but she is the heir. Could be for any reason out there. Someone's pissed at me, at the Syndicate, at the yakuza in general. Could be a rival. One that doesn't like our joining our syndicates. Could be trying to get at Ritsu-kun. Could be fucking anything."

I drained my coffee and poured another. "Then let's get our guys working our side. We don't need to tell the rest of them. When they finally figure out that it isn't those damn letters, we'll have a head start."

"Best idea I've heard so far."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Parent Phone Calls:

Suoh:

Anne-Sophie: "It's such a relief to hear your voice, Rene. I've been so worried."

Tamaki: "I'm safe here, Maman. Please don't worry. You must take care of your health." She can't relapse. I couldn't take that. Not after I just got her back.

Yuzuru: "Concentrate on your friends, Tamaki. I'll take care of your mother."

Tamaki: "What is being done, Father? No one is telling us anything. My darling friend Haruhi is out there somewhere, and nothing is being done."

Yuzuru: It's a good thing Renge-chan's there to keep him in check. Otherwise, he would drive the Morinozuka's insane. "I assure you, Tamaki, that everything that can be done is being done. Just because they aren't telling you, doesn't mean they aren't on top of this."

Tamaki: "But Haruhi! Haruhi's been kidnapped!" How can anyone be calm at a time like this? "I need to be out there looking for her."

Yuzuru: "NO!" Silence on the other end. Good. "That will only give security more to worry about and take their time away from their investigation. You stay put on that estate, Tamaki. I mean it."

Tamaki: "Yes, father." I'll talk to Renge-chan. She'll understand.

Anne-Sophie: "Your maid is packing a bag. Do you need anything special sent over?"

Tamaki: "No, thank you, Maman. I'm sure whatever she packs will be fine."

Yuzuru: "Be strong, Son. Let the professionals do their jobs. They'll find her and Shinobu-san too."

Tamaki: Shinobu? Darn. I'm so focused on Haruhi, I forgot she's missing too. I wonder how Ritsu's doing.

Yuzuru: "Tamaki, tell me you'll stay there and not interfere with security."

Tamaki: "Yes, Father. I'll stay here and not interfere."

Anne-Sophie: "Take care of Renge-chan. She needs your strength now."

Tamaki: "I will, Maman. Don't worry."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Petto Chinmi Store:

"Is everyone finished processing the scene?" My forensics team all nodded. "Find anything?"

"Nothing probative yet."

"No."

"Need to do some tests back at the lab."

"Then let's close up here and get back. Oshiro-san needs a final report right away."

Aside from some tread marks and the darts they used, the kidnappers didn't leave anything behind. They were in and out quickly, following a tight plan.

I want to give Oshiro-san something, but I just can't.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Security Conference Call (Eiji/Tani/Tachibana):

Tachibana: "Kondo-san and Morimoto-san are unable to break away from current security discussions. Kyoya-sama asked me to stand in for them." I know what's coming, and Tani better be glad I'm on a plane and he's at the Morinozuka estate.

Eiji: "I'll let Tani tell you what happened." I leaned back and gave him a shit-eating grin. He didn't know I'd throw him to the wolves so completely. Doesn't know me at all.

Tani: With Eiji sitting here, there's no way to soften this. "I received the code yellow along with who and what had happened. I approached Yuki-sama and told her the code and that Fujioka-sama'd been kidnapped…"

Tachibana: "Wait." He did what? "Am I hearing this right? You approached your primary and gave her the code, which is protocol, but then you also disclosed who and what had happened?"

Tani: "Yes, Tachibana-sama."

Tachibana: "You didn't mention Himura-sama?"

Tani: "No, Sir. Yuki-sama doesn't know her as well."

Tachibana: Damn glad I'm not in the same room. It wouldn't be fair to ask Kyoya-sama to cover up a murder when he's already going through so much. "Was your voice loud enough to announce this to the entire park?"

Tani: "No, Sir. However, Yuki-sama's reply was loud enough for some to hear." I heard something that could have been teeth grinding. "After that, I escorted her straight to the waiting limo and to the Morinozuka estate."

Eiji: "He's glossing over some important parts." Tachibana and Kyoya-sama need to know everything. I want this bastard eviscerated.

Tachibana: "There's more?"

Eiji: "He tried to blame his primary." Tani went completely white and started breathing faster. Not going to catch him if the idiot passes out.

Tachibana: "Is this true, Tani?"

Tani: "Yes, Sir." Can't hide it. Eiji was there. So was everyone else. Teraughi too.

Tachibana: "I'll be right back." I hit mute and went to brief Kyoya-sama.

…

Kyoya: "Tani, you're fired. You'll never work in Japan again."

Tani: "Yes, Sir."

Kyoya: "Shut up. Not another word." Fucking idiot. "I'm about two hours from landing. If you're still in Japan when I touch down, being out of a job will be the least of your worries."

.

After Kyoya-sama disconnected, Tani just sat there, gulping like a fish. "You'll need to call for a taxi and meet them outside the front gate. No one on this estate will help you."

Still silent.

"Kyoya-sama's serious. Unless you want to end up disappearing into a BOS detainment cell, I'd get moving if I were you."

I rolled out of the room leaving him sitting there in shock. I briefed security, telling them to leave him alone. His life is in his hands now.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Ootori Private Plane, Over the Pacific:

"Get me Morimoto on the phone. I don't care who he's talking to or what he's doing."

I sat down and seriously contemplated a drink.

No. That won't help Haru.

Tachibana nodded at the phone, letting me know Morimoto's on speaker.

"Morimoto, enough of this shit. We need a full review of every employee of the BOS and Ootori security. Yuki's had two incompetent guards. She's going to be an Ootori for fuck's sake. You have full authority to fire or demote anyone who needs it.

"And find the most grizzled, tough, no-shit taking veteran for Yuki's detail head and make sure Tachibana approves him. If he's not fit to run my detail, he's not fit for Yuki's."

"Yes, Sir."

"Get to it."

I punched the disconnect button and thought about that drink again but rejoined the main call instead. Didn't stop me from my fourth cup of coffee.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Tokyo Docks:

"That's it." I dumped out my diver's bag onto the tarp laid out on the dock. "Shinobu-sama's jewelry and both of their clothes, minus undergarments and one of Fujioka-sama's socks." Their purses had been left at the pet store.

A member of her detail compared the jewelry to pictures. "That's all she was wearing. I'll take it back to the Compound and clean it up."

We all turned to watch the van being lifted out of the water. A couple fish flopped around before falling back.

What a cluster-fuck.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Morinozuka SUV, headed from the Docks back to Estate:

"Takashi?"

Knuckles white, hands shaking, he's gripping Haru-chan's wet clothes so tight. But his face is absolutely expressionless.

"Takashi?"

He hasn't said a word since we left for the docks, and now we're on our way back to the estate.

We were all shocked at how he violently tore her clothes from the diver's hands. He's holding on like they're the only thing he has left of her.

"Takashi?"

His eyes tracked from the wet clothes in his lap up to mine. It took a moment for them to focus. "Hn?"

"We will find them. We will find her. She will be alright."

As he turned back to her t-shirt and jeans, his expression cracked enough for a tear to land on them.

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Security Headquarters, Himura Compound:

Hanging up, I turned to Ryuu, "Divers are done at the docks. No bodies. They found all Shinobu's jewelry and both of their clothes minus their underwear."

One of my guards pulled the pen out of my hand before I could snap it. They have my baby somewhere sitting in her underwear.

I will be calm. I will get her back. And then all hell will break lose. No one will be safe from me.

"I'm calling Tetsuya. It's time to get Ritsu here and tell him what's going on."

"How much muscle will you need to hold him down?"

"None. I'll handle him."

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Twitter:

My brother's a police officer. He says there's no report of any kidnapping #FujiokaHaruhi #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi

Yeah, but does he have access to all reports? #FujiokaHaruhi #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi

MorinozukaTakashi HitachiinKaoru HitachiinFashions FujiokaHaruhi – Any truth to the rumors Fujioka Haruhi's been kidnapped? #FujiokaHaruhi #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi

Maybe those threatening letters that reporter asked her about last night? #FujiokaThreats #FujiokaHaruhi #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi

And on…

.

xXx

.

Afternoon, Kasanoda SUV headed for Himura Compound:

"What did Pops say again?"

"Only for me to bring you to the Himura Compound after your current inspection was complete. The rest could wait."

"Why's he at the Himura Compound? That doesn't make sense. Junto-san usually comes over to ours."

I didn't sigh. I didn't roll my eyes. "He said to bring you there to meet him. That's all I know. It's probably some wedding stuff, and you need to meet with both Shinobu-sama's parents."

"Wedding stuff that couldn't wait until I was done inspecting our weapon inventories?"

"Young Lord, we're men. Why would we know how important wedding stuff is?"

"This would be a whole lot easier if we told them we're already married."

"I think that's one of your worst ideas ever."

.

"What the fuck are we doing in their gym, Pops? What's going on?"

"Shut up and look at me." Once I had his full attention, I plunged ahead. "Shinobu-chan and Haruhi-chan were kidnapped this afternoon from the Petto Chinmi store where they were having Kasa groomed."

"What?" He shook his head, trying to clear it.

"Shinobu-chan and Haruhi-chan were kidnapped…"

.

xXx

.

Author's Note:

Welcome back!

This is a complicated one. Took Dad and me months to get the outline and first few chapters written. So many spinning plates. So many different people. So much we wanted to include. Keeping the timeline and flow straight involved several charts and graphs.

Some interesting theories from you either in the reviews of the last chapter of the last story or in PMs. You know they got both of them…but who and why?

Slight change to my usual. Updates will be every other Saturday instead of every week. (Lots of new things going on in my life. And by the end of the last story, I was writing right up until posting. That's not a recipe for quality.) I promise you won't die of anticipation.

.

Next Chapter:

More reactions from the kids. More social media. PR heads get involved. The guards are questioned. Does Renge do something unforgiveable? And one of the girls wakes up.

.

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.