Author's Note:
Welcome back to the 6th installment of "The Last Straw" series, or what has turned into the Ouran Soap Opera.
Drop a review – Dad and I would love to hear from you. I read every one of them to him. Makes his week.
Things start to pick up in this chapter, but this whole kidnapping is like a rollercoaster. Slow ups, fast downs, and razor-sharp turns. Hold on…
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xXx
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Date Posted: 9/24/2022
Trigger Warnings: Language, some violence
The Hard Truth - Chapter 3: Green Hair and Dead Eyes
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Evening, Personal Assistant Offices, Morinozuka Estate:
"The Haninozuka staff is going to take over dealing with the deliveries."
Honami-san flopped into a chair and let out a huge sigh. "Good. We've enough on our hands without dealing with the flowers and other things that have started coming in."
That we do.
Over the last hour or so, the volume of flowers and gifts arriving for Haruhi-sama has become overwhelming. Why anyone would read a random tweet and decide to send flowers or stuffed animals or even tampons I'll never know. To the public, her kidnapping is just a rumor.
"Aoi-san? Honami-san?" Yamamoto-san stuck his head in my office. "Takashi-sama just called me and caught me up. Anything I can do?"
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xXx
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Evening, Ootori Hospital:
"We're done for now."
He marched out of the room without a backwards glance. That's the third BOS interrogator that's been in so far. They keep switching and changing up the questions. Are they hoping to trip me up? Do they think I have anything to do with this?
"Igarashi-san," another came in and shut the door behind him, "let's try this again."
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"This could be anyone," Kono yelled at his guard, shaking the sketch in his face. "Did you even look at the driver before you were shot?"
"I did."
"Then act like it." He crumpled up the sketch and threw it on the floor. "Start again."
The sketch artist opened up his pad to a new sheet and picked up his pencil. "We'll start with the eyes this time."
Kono passed me on his way to the door. "Where's your cousin, Yasuchika-sama?"
"Still in Miwa's room. I don't think he's left it since the BOS officers arrived."
"As long as he doesn't kill him."
I stared at Kono and rolled that around in my mind. Takashi would never kill anyone. Not even in defense. "Miwa's safe in his hospital bed."
"From death, maybe. But he can still talk with broken bones."
I wisely held my tongue, but thought that if anyone would be breaking bones, it would be Kono. And I'd stand back and let him.
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Miwa has neither the courage nor the honor to even meet my eyes.
This is his fault. He was in the room with Haruhi when she was taken.
This is Eiji's fault. He built the protection team.
This is my fault. I knew about the letters, knew she wasn't safe, and decided to trust Eiji and Miwa anyway.
And now the girl I love is out there somewhere…and I can't help her.
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After two hours of questioning, I called a break and pulled everyone into the private lounge the hospital set aside for us. Fortunately, Yasuchika-sama got through to Takashi-sama and made him leave Miwa's room. I did not want to leave them alone together.
As the head of the BOS interrogation group, I took the lead. "Some new information, but nothing actionable."
Takashi-sama growled, and I chose to ignore it.
"The sketch is the best we're going to get."
"It could be any asshole in Japan under fifty and over fifteen." That's Kono, Shinobu-sama's detail head. He was out front when it happened and didn't see a thing. Didn't know it'd happened until he called for a report and got radio silence. He's managing his guilt well for now, running on anger.
"We'll run facial recognition against all men associated with any license plates we tagged from this afternoon. We could get lucky."
Yasuchika-sama snorted and continued to swipe away on his phone. A second-year in high school, he's the youngest here, and probably one of the scariest. His martial arts prowess and deadly calm are enough to make anyone a little nervous.
But I agree with him. Nothing about today has been lucky.
I held back my sigh and closed my notebook. "We can try again tomorrow after they've had some sleep. The doctor wants to keep them a while for observation anyway."
"Fuck this," Kono's chair scraped across the floor and hit the wall as he jumped up. "I'm going back to the Compound."
"Takashi," his cousin glanced at him, "I think we should go back as well."
"But Miwa…"
"Can't remember anything more right now and staring at him all night isn't going to help him."
He looked over at me, and the pleading in his eyes shocking.
"I'll stay with a couple officers. We'll try again at random times. Maybe waking them up from REM will help jog their memories."
"Hn." I could see the relief. Could anyone else?
The cousins left the room, and I told my men to get something to eat and meet back in an hour.
I'm sure Fujioka-sama doesn't remember, but I met her once while she was dating Ootori-sama. She leaves quite an impression. We will find her.
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xXx
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Night, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
Everything hurts…
"Owwww," I tried to scream when I jerked awake. I can't move.
Guns…
Miwa!
Shinobu!
Can't breathe…can't see…
Dizzy…
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xXx
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Night, Security Headquarters, Morinozuka Estate:
I headed for the security headquarters after sending Akira and Umeko to bed. Not sure he'll sleep, but she will.
After the two of us left the kids, she completely broke down. And no wonder, her daughter has been taken from her. Haruhi-chan's been such a breath of fresh air to both our estates, I've started thinking of her as my niece. I suppose she will be once she and Takashi are married.
Yorihisa came over and engulfed me in his arms as soon as I walked in. "Kumi, darling, you should be in bed. Your health…"
"I'm headed there next. I wanted to let you know I sent them both to bed after reassuring them you'd be covering security for the night."
"Thanks for that." He kissed my cheek, "You told them I'd let them know if we learned anything."
"Of course."
"Good," his hand stroked my face. "Are you staying in one of the guest rooms?"
"No. I'll go back to our estate, take a bath, and sleep in my own bed. The rest will be better that way."
He nodded at me with a half-smile. "Try to sleep through to the morning. I love you."
"I love you, too."
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xXx
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Monday, September 26:
Early, Early Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
Fucking great. I've pissed myself.
If those fuckers thought they could tie me to a chair and leave me for hours without that happening, then fuck them. Guess they'll have to clean it up.
Only problem is now I'm even colder.
And it smells in here.
Not sure how long I've been sitting here but haven't heard anything but me so far.
Tried calling out to Haruhi, but she's either still out or isn't here.
There's no way the syndicates don't know about this by now. I can picture Ritsu and Dad ripping my security apart. How the fuck did they let this happen? How the fuck did someone get past my guards?
There's going to be hell to pay when I get out of here.
Deep breath. Remember your training, Shinobu. Remember and be ready.
Mom and Dad are looking.
Ritsu's looking.
He'll find me, and then we'll kill every motherfucker here.
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Can't hold it…
I must have passed out. But now I really have to pee.
"Heeeeepppp!"
No one's coming.
"I hava pee!"
Panicking isn't working. I'm only making my wrists and ankles hurt more trying to get them loose.
Threatening letters. Must be because of the letters. But Takashi and Eiji never told me about them, so I don't know why.
When I get back, I'll make sure those two know to never keep anything from me again. I need to know why I'm in danger. It's my damn life!
And what good is all this crazy worrying over security if this happens? I'm tied to a chair wearing only panties and a bra. Clearly security didn't keep me safe.
Maybe if I only pee a little…That didn't work.
What do I do now?
This room must be small because the smell so strong.
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xXx
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Early, Early Morning, Twitter:
I know what I heard. The guard said "Fujioka's been taken." Then the girl said 'Haruhi's been kidnapped?' What else could it mean? #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats
They're denying it too much. Must be covering it up. #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats
HitachiinFashions EveryWoman HitachiinModel FujiokaHaruhi You aren't fooling anyone with your denials! Stop flooding the hashtags with stuff about the ball. Let us know what's going on! #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats
Twitter exploding with new hashtag #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped Our magazine has contacted all relevant PR departments and received back nothing but 'no comment' Will keep you updated. #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats [link to tabloid story on their website.]
And on, and on, and on…
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xXx
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Early, Early Morning Various Security Command Centers:
Himura:
"Take over," I snapped at the new guys coming in. "Everyone else, out! Shower and sleep. Be back here for breakfast at 7am."
Kono didn't budge. "That means you, too."
"I'm not leaving until she's back."
Been waiting for this. I got in his face and lowered my voice. No sense in any of the other guys hearing. "Get out. Feel guilty on your own time, but when you're in here, I need you at your best. And right now, you're so far away from your best, it's embarrassing."
"Hibino-sama…"
"I'm going too. We can't help her if we're dead on our feet, and you fucking know it."
He glared then finally turned to leave. When he didn't hear me coming after him, he turned around, "Hibino-sama, aren't you coming?"
"Gonna catch these guys up first."
Once he was gone, I gave the new ones their orders and headed for my office. I'll sleep there and shower in the locker room. I need to be here. He doesn't.
It's been twelve hours.
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Haninozuka:
"I'll be in my office. Wake me up if you get anything."
"Yes, Ishikawa-sama."
I collapsed on my sofa and guzzled a bottle of water. No more coffee until after breakfast. Need to clear my head.
But, of course, I couldn't sleep…
Doesn't make any sense. Some group of parents gets angry about personal hygiene and sex discussed in public, writes letters, and then escalates to kidnapping? And kidnapping from a public place with a full security detail from two families? One of them being a yakuza syndicate? And they kidnap the heir to that syndicate?
How? Who are these people?
Where did they get tranquilizer guns and the skills to use them?
There has to be something we're all missing. But without ransom demands, or any other contact, we're flying blind.
I've trained for this. Had outside training for this. Same as Oshiro. And I'm sure the yakuza train for it too.
Kidnappings are both a sprint and a marathon. At the beginning is the best chance you'll have to find them. Everyone needs laser focus and quick reflexes. If they aren't back within twenty-four hours, everyone needs to buckle down and keep that focus through the disappointment and long hours.
I'm never going to get to sleep. Every time I close my eyes, I see that sweet girl smiling at me. Whether she's made us cookies or asked about my day, she never forgets us. Never forgets any of the staff.
I've only met Shinobu-sama twice, but she seemed to have her head on straight. Not overly confrontational and has been a good friend to the rest of the group. She and Haruhi-sama have been becoming closer friends. I want her back as well.
I spoke with Fujii, the Kasanoda head, to make sure they knew we weren't dividing efforts, each wanting to find only one of them. This is a joint operation between all of us, and we all want both of them back.
Darn it, guess I'll check my email.
It's been twelve hours.
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Suoh:
Oshiro-san told all the uninvolved families to take a break, and he'd let us know if there was anything new.
I sent the day-shift home hours ago, but the night shift is on alert.
Haruhi-sama is responsible for the huge shift in the young master's temperament. Yes, Renge-sama has taken over, but she put him on the path. She woke him up and made him stop calling her his daughter. Made him figure out his feelings.
I have no doubt he would have repaired his relationship with his grandmother completely if she hadn't passed away.
This office might be off high alert, but an attack against one is an attack against all of us. Those kids are seen out together too often to take any other stance.
We'll get them back.
It's already been twelve hours.
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Hitachiin:
"I thought you checked it."
"No, you were going to."
"You said you would."
"I did no such thing."
"ENOUGH!" All eyes snapped to me. "This bickering is pointless. Whatever needs done, one of you do it. Now!"
They turned in their seats, and a whirlwind of typing started.
Hitachiin Fashions security is ready for a kidnapping. But we always prepared for a ransom demand. Nothing else made much sense for this family.
Aside from handing over records and providing backup, we haven't done much. Nothing for us to do, really. My techs have been on the phone and staring at their screens this whole time, helping with the license plates. Since the Haninozuka's were spearheading that initiative and we only suppled a couple of techs and paid our share, I never paid it much attention. Not like I could understand how they play with all that data. I just need the results, and so far…nothing.
I woke up a couple of guards snoring in chairs and sent them home. Told them I don't want to see them until after lunch.
Gotta watch the battle fatigue.
It's only been twelve hours.
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Black Onion Squad:
Nothing.
Not a damn thing.
It's been over twelve hours with no demands, no clues, nothing strong to follow up.
I finally had to kick Ootori-sama out of the command center because he was driving everyone crazy. Naturally, I didn't phrase it like that. Between Tachibana and me, we managed to convince him to go back to his apartment and wait for news. Tachibana sent a text saying he'd finally gone to bed after ten kilometers on the treadmill. His head will be clearer later today.
"I'll be back by breakfast," I called over my shoulder as I left the room. Maybe a few laps in the training pool and some sleep will help me too.
Twelve hours and nothing.
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Morinozuka:
Akira had to order Takashi to bed. Told him he didn't care what he did but didn't want to see him until after breakfast. My nephew is stubborn but is logical. He will do his best to sleep. He must be alert to find Haruhi-chan.
I was busy with other things in St. Louis, so I didn't spend much time with security. If the current officers here on loan from the other estates are a good representation, he chose wisely. Right now, there are six here, one of which is manning the location data. He can give us the location of any primary, primary detail head, estate detail head, and guard with his map and database. If only he knew where Haruhi-chan and Shinobu-san were.
Twelve hours. Hold on girls. We're coming.
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Blondie, Diamond, Thing 1, Thing 2, Cupcake, Bunny, Doc, Bashful, and Dancer are all sleeping. Most of them in the private theater and the Things in the game room after a long run in the gym.
Yen and Stretch came back from the hospital with no news, and their fathers sent them to bed. Yen's in his room, but without cameras in there, I don't know if he's asleep.
After being in his room for about twenty minutes, I saw Stretch leave and head down the hallway for Pixie's room. He stood outside for a minute or so then let himself in.
Flame is at the Himura Compound probably tearing it apart.
And, of course, Pixie and Killer are missing.
And I'm supposed to report to my boss on the status of the investigation. He wants to know how close they are to discovering him. But right now, I don't have a safe way to report. They took my cell, and all communications are being monitored for a ransom demand or other info.
I'm just going to keep my head down and wait for my chance. Got nothing to report anyway. They're going down the wrong path with those letters.
And twelve hours isn't that long.
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xXx
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Early, Early Morning, Haruhi's Room, Morinozuka Estate:
I closed the door and stood just inside her room. It fits her personality. The understated seating area with the same furniture as mine except in gray. The bookshelves filled to the brim. I smiled slightly at the stacks of books in front of them. She went crazy at that bookstore in New York. And with Karou's money, too.
She's collected several art pieces from Tamaki's gallery. The strangest one is the black and white photograph of an old woman on the street. I never did ask her about why she wanted that one. Now I may never get to.
"No!"
I jumped at the sound of my own voice, surprised at the volume.
We'll get her back. We'll find her. Nothing else is acceptable.
Suddenly, something rubbed across my leg. I looked down and saw, "Koko? How are you?" She must have come through the cat flap in the door. Picking her up, I started rubbing her behind the ears like I know she likes it. She started purring immediately.
Another touch on my leg. The white cat from the ball that adopted Haruhi. She hasn't named it yet.
And she WILL get the chance to.
I scooped her up too and headed for Haruhi's bed. When my head hit the pillow, I was surrounded by her scent. Cherry blossoms from her shampoo. Mint from her toothpaste. And something uniquely Haruhi.
Somehow the cats knew I needed them. They curled up on top of me, using me as a pillow.
"This is all my fault, but I'll get her back for us."
I fell asleep to purring and Haruhi's scent.
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xXx
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Early, Early Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
"Rise and shine, Bitch."
She jerked in her chair but didn't make a noise. Gross. She's pissed herself.
We dragged her out into the main warehouse where the boss was waiting for her and took off her gag.
"You stink."
"Fuck you." She tossed it out there like it was nothing. Like she was sitting around with friends. How is she not terrified? She can't see a thing. There could be dozens of us all with guns, and she's acting like she's ordering coffee.
"So, you're the little shit that's been fucking up my business."
"No idea what you're talking about, Dickhead."
Wrong answer…
The boss got right in her face so she could feel his breath, "No one knows where you are, little girl. I could do anything to you."
"You don't have the balls."
She'd shit herself if she could see his grin.
"Obviously, you need to spend some more time in the closet."
That's my cue. Gagged her, but not without her trying to bite me. "Cut it out, you crazy bitch," I growled with a slap across her face. Then we dragged her back to the closet.
No protests. No thrashing. Kinda creepy.
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xXx
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Early Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
I jerked awake when a door slammed open.
"Hey there, Sweet Thing. Bet you're thirsty."
"Heeep."
He practically ripped off my gag. "What was that?"
"Help. Let me go." It came out as a croak.
"Can't do that." A chill ran up my spine at the tone of his voice, and I shook in my chair. "Don't be scared, Baby. I won't hurt you."
I don't believe him.
Clearing my throat, I tried again, "Why are you doing this?"
"Because I can."
Something cold touched my lips. "Drink up. You'll need your strength."
Is it drugged?
"Drink!" He tipped the glass, and water spilled down my chin and onto my chest. I drank some before he could force me anymore. I'm so thirsty.
"White cotton suits you, but now that it's wet, I can see your tits."
When I felt a finger stroke up my arm, my skin started to crawl, and I flinched away.
"Don't be like that, Sweet Thing. I'll be gentle."
"Stop." I started to yell. "Stop! Don't touch me!"
"Quiet, Bitch." He slapped my face, but only hard enough to scare me. "You just sit here and wait for what's coming." He shoved the gag back in my mouth.
"I'll be back to get my payment for the water."
I heard the door close and sagged in the chair.
A thousand things that man could do to me ran through my mind, each worse than the last.
Takashi? You said I was safe. You and Eiji promised.
Where are you?
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xXx
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Morning, Security Conference Call:
Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "We've heard back from Quantico and a copy of their report has been posted to the shared drive."
Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Give us the highlights."
Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): I kept the disappointment out of my voice. No one's going to like this. "In their expert opinion, they don't believe the threats are credible. They don't meet their threshold to be taken seriously as imminent threats."
Harada (Hitachiin Head): "Even with threatening to carve up her face?
Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Even with the threats of violence. They said it sounds like melodramatics." I took another gulp of coffee.
Kawabata (Suoh Head): "So…"
Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "So, they don't think the group has her. They don't think the group, if it is a group, is anything to be concerned about."
Kawabata (Suoh Head): "Then what…"
Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "However, they are willing to concede that they aren't experts in Japanese culture and psychology. These threats wouldn't be credible in America but might be in Japan."
Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "So, we're back where we started. These letters and no other solid suspects."
Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "Correct."
Osakada (Houshakuji Head): "What do you think, Morimoto? Are they a credible threat?"
Morimoto (BOS Acting Head): "They were enough to worry me before I asked the FBI. I'm not sure their opinion changes mine."
Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "We're still only about seventeen hours in. Ransom is still a possibility. The Morinozuka bank, a Suoh bank, has arranged for any amount to be ready if needed.
"They will provide cash for any demand for Shinobu-sama as well."
Hibino (Himura Head): "With all due respect to the Suoh bank and the Morinozuka's, we're ready with our own cash."
Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Noted, but the offer is there if needed." When he didn't respond, I wrapped it up. "With no new suspects, we will continue to work the license plates and any leads from the van or the warehouse."
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xXx
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Morning, Phone Call from Suoh Yuzuru to Ouran Chairwoman:
Yuzuru: "Good morning, Watase-san. I hope your weekend went well." Got to keep a happy tone. Don't want to give her any reason to believe the Twitter rumors.
Watase: "I enjoyed it. Congratulations on the Ball." Why is he calling me? Our weekly meeting on Thursday went fine.
Yuzuru: "Thank you. The On Okuri Ball was an unprecedented success. Tamaki and his friends are ecstatic over the results." Too much? "Actually, that's the reason for my call. The event was so successful, there's more work needed to be done for the wrap-up than they anticipated."
Watase: "I'm glad to hear it was such a success."
Yuzuru: "They asked me to inform you that Fujioka, the Hitachiin twins, Houshakuji, Ito, Kasanoda, Himura, Morinozuka, and Haninozuka will be taking the next few days off to complete their duties as board members. I hope you understand." I doubt she'll believe this, but there's hope because she's not a member of a charity board.
Watase: They aren't coming to classes? Is this about that Twitter ting? "But their assignments?"
Yuzuru: "Please have their teachers email them their work and copy me. They've promised to keep up."
Watase: If they have the time to keep up, they should have the time to come to school, but if the rumors are true, they would be staying away. "Of course. I'll let their instructors know." Besides, he is my boss.
Yuzuru: "Thank you so much. Please let me know if they aren't turning in their assignments, and I'll follow up with them." That was easier than I thought, but she does work for me.
Watase: "Alright, Suoh-san. Let me know if there's anything else I can do."
Yuzuru: "I will. Have a good week, and we'll meet on Thursday as scheduled."
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xXx
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Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
Fuck. Here we go again.
This time I'll keep my temper. This time I'll keep quiet. This time I'll remember my training.
Those fuckers drug me out of the closet and across a huge floor. Warehouse?
"You stink."
Yeah, you would too, dipshit, if you were tied to a chair so long you couldn't hold it any longer and not only pissed yourself but shit yourself.
Just how long have I been here?
Suddenly, they dumped a bucket of cold water on me. Then another. Then another.
"That should help."
Probably just make it worse. Not like it all got washed away. Morons.
"Take the blindfold off."
I squinted and blinked. They have a fucking spotlight right in my face. Motherfucker made my eyes water.
Once my eyes adjusted as much as they would, I made about eight of them in the room with me. All in masks. How fucking original.
"You're going to tell me what I want to know."
Not with this gag in my mouth, dumbass. And not in this lifetime.
He pointed at one of the guys behind me.
Then I felt a knife sawing through my hair and gag.
My hair. He chopped off my fucking hair.
When we're done here, I'm going to cut a piece of him off for every hair he cut. Bastard.
"What do you know about my business?"
"You mean renting out maid's uniforms to perverts? Nothing." OK, not my best idea. Didn't stick with the training at all. Must be the hair.
And…got slapped across the face for it. Not worth it to be cute with him. Don't want to find out how much of that I can take without a damn good reason and my smart mouth isn't it.
"The girls, you bitch. How much do you know about the girls?"
"No idea what you're talking about."
Don't like that glare. I know what he's talking about, and he knows I know. He's not going to bring one of them out here, is he? Shit…don't know what I'd do if he did.
"Bring it in here."
It?
The far door opened with a squeal, and someone came through dragging something. Body? Fuck. Who?
Saw the head first. Neon green hair. Cut short.
My hacker.
.
She's good, but I knew the moment she recognized him. Not old enough to be hardened enough to keep that emotion off her face.
Guilt.
I can work with that.
"My boys had fun with him."
And they did. I had them keep his hair and eyes intact, but everything else is almost unrecognizable. Bones broken, hands missing. He made a satisfying squishy splat when they dumped him in front of her.
"Now what do you have to say?"
Her eyes tracked up slowly from him to my face. All emotion gone now.
"Do you know who I am? Who I'm engaged to?" I stood silent, waiting for her to finish. "You're already dead, you just don't know it yet."
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xXx
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Morning, Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:
"I don't understand, Honey-kun. If our guest rooms have windows, why can't we eat in the dining room. Those windows face the rear of the estate."
I squeezed Cho-chan's hand three times – I Love You – and smiled, "It's what Aunt Umeko is most comfortable with right now."
"Oh. Well then, we'll do what she wishes. I know she's worried sick about Haruhi."
"Thank you, Cho-chan."
That's when Takashi and Chika-chan walked in. Takashi's hand was bandaged from the stiches. Most of us jumped up from our seats, but Satoshi asked the question, "Any news?"
"No." Chika-chan sat down at the bar and grabbed a cup of coffee. "We're on our way to the security offices after breakfast."
"How's your hand, Mori-senpai?"
"Fine." He chose tea and started filling up his plate. I'm sure his hand hurts from the way he's cradling it, but I kept quiet.
.
How can he be so calm? My darling friend is out there somewhere, and no one knows where or if she's hurt.
And my fiancée drugged me last night to make me sleep.
I woke up groggy with a horrible taste in my mouth and couldn't figure out why I slept so hard. Renge-chan told me what she did. I haven't been that angry with her since she didn't want Kyoya to be my best man. She tried to explain. There's nothing I can do to help find Haruhi, so I needed to sleep to be sharp when I could do something.
That didn't calm me down much.
Took a long, hot shower and a lot of thinking to realize she's probably right and that Haruhi would want me to take care of myself.
Still, it's not right for her to drug me without my knowledge. We'll have a long talk after breakfast.
.
Everyone but Cho's eating. Honey's trying to coax her into trying his pancakes. She's had a scare but is logical. She'll eat when she's hungry.
"Akito," I smiled encouragingly at Yuki, "I feel so useless. What are we going to do today?"
They all focused in on our conversation. Guess because I'm the oldest here, they might follow my suggestion. "Study."
"What!" That must be Hikaru. Interesting how their maids packed identical clothes for them. Almost like they knew they'd find comfort in each other. "How the fuck can you study when Haruhi and Shinobu are out there?"
I took a deep breath and pulled out my doctor voice. "Is not studying going to help them?"
"There has to be something we can do."
"What?"
"Well…What about…" he stuttered to a halt.
"Exactly." I set my chopsticks down. I'm finished with my fish anyway. "What's Haruhi's nickname?"
Silence for a couple of beats before Kaoru spoke up, "Bookworm." He sighed heavily, "We call her bookworm."
"And glutton."
"I don't think that's what Akito-san was going for, Hika."
"Whatever."
"How angry would Haruhi be if she came back and found out we all could have kept up with our schoolwork, but chose instead to sit around and worry?"
"Well, shit."
I leaned back and sipped my tea and watched it sink in.
"We don't have our books."
"Or our computers."
Maybe I don't want to focus on adolescents in my practice. "You have assistants and maids back at your estates that can send them over."
"Security has my computer."
"And my phone."
And mine, but I knew why they were keeping them.
"You'll get them all back in the library after a security briefing." All heads swiveled to Chika, and I caught the look on Mori's face. He didn't know that.
Looks like they're going to tell us about the leak during that briefing. I have less time to get Yuki-chan ready than I thought.
.
"I hope everyone got some sleep last night." The smell of breakfast hit me as I walked into the room. I haven't eaten yet.
"Father, is everything alright? Is Maman well?"
I fought the urge to engulf him in an embrace. It could just as easily be him we're looking for.
"She's fine, Tamaki. She was still sleeping when I left." I set my briefcase down, took a plate, and chose eggs and bacon. The kitchen staff had thoughtfully prepared both a traditional Japanese breakfast along with several western dishes.
Most of them impatiently watched me take a seat and arrange my plate and silverware. "I spoke with Chairwoman Watase this morning regarding some of your absences from Ouran today."
"How did you explain them?" Chika asked. Always the most pragmatic.
"I told her that because of the ball's success, the On Okuri board needed more time than anticipated to handle the wrap-up."
"And she bought that?"
"She didn't have much of a choice, Kaoru. I am her boss."
The clink of utensils filled the silence. I took the chance to get a couple pastries.
"What about our assignments?"
"I'm glad you asked, Yuki-chan." Wiping the powdered sugar off my fingers, I checked my phone. No emails yet, but it's still early. "Watase-san asked your teachers to email them to you and copy me. I'll forward them to Morinozuka security for them to print for you."
"You won't need to forward them, Suoh-sama," Chika-kun spoke up. "We'll have a security briefing and get out electronics back after breakfast."
"Alright. As for those of you at Todi, remember finals are this week. It's your responsibility to talk to your professors."
"What about our tests, Father? We can't do them from here."
"That's up to Oshiro-san. I'm sure the security plans will be discussed at the next security briefing." Before he could say anything else, I glared at him, "You will be taking yours, Tamaki. No excuses."
"Yes, Father."
.
xXx
.
Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
Then the motherfucker started laughing at me. Full out laughing.
"You think I'd bring you here and not know who you are, Himura Shinobu? You think I care?"
"You should."
He put his masked face right up in mine. I want so bad to bite his nose off, but my training says no. Gotta wait for the opportunity, and this isn't it.
"No one's going to find you. And before we're done here, you're going to tell me everything I want to know."
"Go fuck yourself."
"No thanks," he turned and walked towards the door. "Keep an eye on him, will you? And consider your options."
They left the room, and I felt the heat kick on. Great. I'll warm up from that cold water, but he already smells terrible.
"I'm sorry," I whispered to him. "I didn't mean for this to happen, but I'll rip every one of their heads off for this."
.
xXx
.
Morning, Phone Calls to Parents:
Yuki: "How are you feeling?"
Fuyumi: "Fat and hungry. Don't worry about me. The Shido doctor is here and there's security everywhere."
Yuki: "That many?"
Fuyumi: "Kyoya's just being overly cautious. Sota is his heir after all."
Yuki: I hope she's not just trying to make me feel better. "Our teachers are sending our assignments. Can you arrange for my schoolbooks and laptop to be sent over?"
Fuyumi: "Sure. I'll transfer the call to your maid. You can tell her exactly what you need, and I'll send it over with a driver."
Yuki: "Thanks. Don't eat Sota's fish sticks."
Fuyumi: "What do you think I had for breakfast?"
.
Honey: "But Mother…"
Kumi: He can be so exasperating. "Mitsukuni, you are already a semester behind because you changed your major. You must take your finals."
Honey: "Haru-chan would understand."
Kumi: "No, she wouldn't, and you know it. Besides, Cho-chan needs you. You can escort her to her tests if you wish."
Honey: That's playing dirty. She knows I won't let her out of my sight. "Alright."
Kumi: "Don't pout, Mitsukuni. It's beneath the Haninozuka heir." When he didn't respond after a moment, I continued, "Do you want me to send your school things over or will you come and get them?"
Honey: "I'll come over. I want some different clothes too."
Kumi: "Try to stay positive. The best people in the country are looking for them."
Honey: "It's not easy."
Kumi: "I know, darling, but try."
.
xXx
.
Morning, Twitter:
Still no confirmation from anyone about #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped The #OnOkuri ball was just last night and she spoke with both PM and princess. Are they involved? #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats
[Reply to above tweet] Are you suggesting the PM or the princess had her kidnapped? How dumb are you. Dipshit! #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats
Maybe she's involved in something political? Something secret? #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats #OnOkrui
[Reply to above tweet] Hey! Dumbass! What would a 17 yo girl be involved in that's secret in the gov. #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats #OnOkrui
The PM's numbers have been dipping. Maybe this is all a publicity stunt? #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats #OnOkrui
And on and on and on…
.
xXx
.
Morning, Phone call between Yamamoto [Mori's personal assistant] and Egusa Megu [Ranka's Restaurant stage manager, Drag Queen extraordinaire]:
Egusa: "Finally! It took forever for security to give me your number." I'm sure it was the hundred calls, the screaming, and the crying. "Where is Haruhi! Her voice mail is full, and Twitter's gone apeshit!"
Yamamoto: "I can't comment on that at this time, Egusa-san." And security's going to get an earful for giving her my number.
Egusa: "Can't comment? Can't comment?"
Yamamoto: That pitch is so high, I'm not sure dogs can hear her.
Egusa: "You will comment to me, Yamamoto. I've known that girl since she was six years old. I personally taught her how to mend her clothes. You will tell me what is going on."
Yamamoto: "I can't do that, Egusa-san. I have no comment."
Egusa: "Put her on the phone now, Yamamoto. I need to hear her voice."
Yamamoto: "She's unavailable at this time."
Egusa: "Put Takashi-sama on the phone. He'll talk to me."
Yamamoto: Only if I want to lose my job. "He's unavailable at this time."
Egusa: "Then you damn well better tell him I called. I was one of her father's best friends, and I have to know what's going on." That sweet, sweet girl.
Yamamoto: "I'll pass on the message."
Egusa: Then it caught up with me. No comment? Can't get her or Takashi-sama on the phone? "Is she alright?" It came out as a whisper. I'm not sure I want an answer.
Yamamoto: I wish I could say something reassuring, but no one can right now. "I can't comment at this time."
Egusa: "Are they looking for her?"
Yamamoto: "I can't comment at this time."
Egusa: That poor girl. "Have Takashi-sama call me, please."
Yamamoto: "I'll pass on the message."
.
She was in tears at the end. 'No comment' to her friends only confirms the rumors. They can't get her or any of the others on the phone. What are they supposed to think?
I'll contact security to have them empty her voice mail. Maybe that will give the illusion she's listening to them.
.
xXx
.
Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
"SHIT!"
I cringed at the echo in the warehouse, but relaxed when no one came running.
Motherfucker. I know that voice. I remember who it is.
Bastard is dead. Oh, so fucking dead.
Doesn't surprise me one bit he's involved in this shit. Surprised I couldn't tell just by looking at him. Disgusting. Made my stomach roll the first time I met him.
When we exterminated Ronan.
How many ways can I come up with to kill him?
Gotta do something to pass the time.
1 – Big bullet
2 – Two bullets
3 -
.
xXx
.
Morning, Library, Morinozuka Estate:
"I don't like this idea."
"It's what your father wanted."
"Hn."
Takashi and I got a quick briefing after breakfast and headed for the library. Neither of us was surprised when everyone jumped to their feet and demanded information.
"Quiet," he snapped, stopping all noise. "Sit." I would have laughed at them all plopping back in their seats if things weren't what they are.
"We don't have any news about Haruhi or Shinobu-senpai." Several of them started yelling again, but I cut them off, "However, we do need to tell you about a current issue."
Why did I agree to do this?
Oh, right. Father and Uncle are busy. Takashi's in no condition to. And the security heads have more important things to do.
And I already told them they'd get their electronics back after this briefing.
"What, Chika!? Don't just stand there. Speak!" Hikaru-senpai. Has to be Hikaru-senpai. I had only paused long enough to take a breath.
"I realize this is asking too much of some of you," I tried not to glare at Tamaki-senpai and Hikaru-senpai, "but please be quiet and hold comments and questions until I'm done."
Renge-senpai nodded and put her arm around Tamaki-senpai. I know she knows about the leak. She nodded at me, letting me know she's ready.
Kaoru-senpai did nothing to be ready for his brother to lash out, but Satoshi got up and quietly headed over to stand behind him.
Here goes…
.
I know what Chika's going to tell everyone. Only one thing it could be. But I thought Father wanted to keep it from them.
Doesn't matter. I'm ready no matter what Hikaru-senpai does.
"The kidnapping has leaked to social media…"
"What?!"
Renge-senpai kept an iron grip on his arm and pulled him back in his chair. "Tamaki-kun, please let him finish."
"They don't know much, and it's still a rumor."
"How?" Kaoru-senpai asked.
Chika did a good job of not looking like he wanted to punch him. "If you all will be quiet, I'll get through this faster." He paused, but no one spoke. "I'll go into how in a minute. First, they only know about Haruhi. Shinobu-senpai's name is not out there. Second, they have no idea where or who. Third, it hasn't left Twitter yet except for a trashy entertainment website."
Somehow everyone stayed quiet, so he continued, "It leaked almost immediately when one of your guards gave you the code and brought you back here."
.
I watched Yuki at my side, waiting to see if she would realize it was her guard. So far, nothing.
"Who?" This time it was Kaoru. "What moronic guard said something in public? Don't tell me they're still employed, Chika."
"They aren't. In fact, they probably aren't even in Japan anymore."
"Good," he huffed.
Then Chika turned to Yuki, and I put my arm around her. "Yuki-senpai, I'm sorry, but it was Tani-san."
"But…" Her eyes unfocused as she remembered. "No…" And they filled with tears. "I said her name too." Two big tears ran down her face as she blinked. "It's my fault."
With everything going on in his life, with every reason to be furious, and with every reason not to provide any comfort, I'll be thankful to Mori forever for what he did next.
"This was not your fault, Yuki." He knelt down in front of her and took her hand. "Protocol is he should have never said her name. If he hadn't, you wouldn't have known it. You have nothing to blame yourself for, and Haruhi would agree. Your guard failed. It's entirely his fault."
"I'm so sorry."
"Please don't be. No one is blaming you. No one is upset with you. You are not responsible for this."
She turned and buried her head in my shoulder. I looked up over her head and whispered, "Thank you." He nodded back and stood up.
"Wait a minute." Tamaki shook off Renge's arm and stood up. "Let me get this straight." He glared at Chika. "My darling friend's kidnapping was leaked as soon as we were brought here, and we weren't told!?"
"Correct."
"Chika…"
"It was Oshiro-san's and my uncle's decision. If you have a problem with it, take it up with them."
"Tamaki-kun, please sit down. You aren't helping."
Oh, no. I can see him putting it together.
3…
2…
1…
"Why aren't you angry? Did you know about this, Renge-chan?"
"I did." Surprised me. I thought she'd lie.
"And you didn't tell me?"
"Correct."
We all waited for the explosion. But it didn't come.
"I'm not sure I know who you are anymore." And he simply left the room.
.
I need to step in before everyone loses it.
"I think we all need a break."
Chika opened his mouth, but I held my hand up. I assume there's a plan, or they wouldn't have told us about the leak, but tempers are too high right now for it to do any good.
"Let's all go blow off some steam and meet back here in an hour. We can figure out what to do about all this then."
"But Cho-senpai," I waived Chika off again.
"Agreed?"
"Fine." Satoshi stood up and headed for the door. "I'm going to the dojo."
"Hn," and Mori-senpai followed him.
When we started to hear the sounds of a piano echoing through the mansion, Renge stood and walked out without saying a word.
Akito picked up Yuki and left mumbling something about needing time alone.
That's when all of this finally caught up with Hikaru. "I need to beat the shit out of something."
Karou followed him out, calling back of his shoulder, "He means the heavy bag. We'll be in the gym."
That left Chika, Honey-kun, and me.
"Chika, I know PR has a plan or you wouldn't have said anything. Let them all come to terms, and you can go through it when they come back."
I could tell he'd already come to that conclusion. "Fine. I'm headed for the dojo."
When it was finally quiet, Honey-kun pulled me into his arms. "That was amazing, Cho-chan. You handled that so well."
"Thanks. I saw the explosion coming and did the only thing I could think of to defuse it."
We held each other for a few minutes, each drawing strength from the other. We'll make a good team, and I'll marry him no matter what Father says.
"Do you want to get some cake?"
Ever predictable. Though I'm not sure he wants any now. I think he's asking for my sake. "No. I think I'll go for a walk in the indoor garden."
"I'll join…"
"You should go to the dojo and work off some energy. Besides," I reached up and kissed him on the cheek, "I'm not sure Chika and Satoshi are enough to help Mori-senpai right now."
He kissed me back. "You're right, Cho-chan. I'll go give him a good fight."
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Twitter:
#FujiokaHaruhi Go Salon IDENTIFIED! Think they kidnapped her from there? #HatanoGoSalon #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats [Original pic of Haruhi at salon, pic of salon without her showing same background, pic of outside of salon]
[Reply to above tweet] Why would anyone kidnap anyone from a go salon? Wouldn't it be crawling with police now? Idiot #FujiokaHaruhiKidnapped #FujiokaHaruhi #HitachiinModel #EveryWoman #PettoChinmi #FujiokaThreats #HatanoGoSalon
And on and on and on and on
.
xXx
.
After School Starts, Ouran:
"With all due respect Chairwoman Watase, I have five students absent from my class and rumors that Fujioka-san has been kidnapped. What am I supposed to think?"
"Exactly what I told you. Suoh-sama explained that they need time to wrap up the charity ball, and you should email them their assignments and copy him." I feel a headache coming on. All the way down through my neck. "I'm sure the rumors are just that. Rumors."
She left in a huff, and I dug through my desk for some aspirin.
I'll need to make an announcement to the student body before the rumors run rampant through the halls. My students will not be responsible for adding to the mess on the Internet.
.
xXx
.
Students throughout Ouran:
"Disgusting little commoner. Who'd want to kidnap her?"
"Leverage over her friends?"
.
"Her voicemail's full."
"They all are."
.
"Renge's not responding to my texts. Something's wrong. She always does."
.
"You think they're all kidnapped?"
.
"Serves her right, thinking she's more than she is."
"You're just jealous."
"Of her being kidnapped?"
"Of her. You tried so hard to get those twins to look at you, and they only pay attention to her."
.
"I don't understand. If she's kidnapped, why are the rest of them not here?"
"Security."
"Security?"
"I forget your family isn't that elite. If they took her, they could take any of them."
"Oh."
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
47 – Hammers
48 – Rabid Dogs
Kasa! IF THEY HURT HER…
49 – Kasa's nail clippers
50 – Snakes
51 -
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Phone call between Chika and Shinohara (On Okuri CEO):
Chika: "I've been unable to track the hashtags for the ball and On Okuri today. How are they?"
Shinohara: "Still trending, but less than Saturday night, obviously. What's kept them up are the replies from various board member's PR representatives. They keep pivoting back to the ball when someone uses the hashtag to spread rumors about Fujioka-san."
Should I even ask if it's true? You'd think she'd make an appearance and shut everything down if it wasn't.
Chika: "Those rumors are unfortunate." I'm not even going to give him a 'no comment'. "But they've brought up something I'm considering. That's why I called."
I looked through the dojo window and saw Mitsukuni flip Takashi. They both need to work off some of this nervous energy we're all bottling up.
Shinohara: "What's that?"
Chika: "I think we should hire a permanent staff member to manage On Okuri's Public Relations and be our spokesperson. We'll keep the contracted PR firm, but we need someone with experience on the staff full time. They'll have the organization's best interests in mind."
Shinohara: "Interesting. A PR staff member is on my list of suggestions to discuss with the Board."
Chika: Good to know my ideas track with the professional's. "You don't need to bring it to the entire Board. I'm approving it right now."
Shinohara: "Excellent. I know just the headhunter to contact. They can have a list by this afternoon."
Chika: "I want to be involved. Have them copy me on the list, and we'll talk again when we get it."
Shinohara: "Alright. Call me after you've had time to review it."
Chika: "Thanks, Shinohara-san. And thank you again for all the hard work on the ball. It was a tremendous success."
I hung up and looked back inside in time to see Satoshi being tossed over Mitsukuni's shoulder. I need to get back in there. The three of us can take him on at once. We'll take that Alien down.
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Tea Room, Morinozuka Estate:
"I want her back."
I held Umeko tight as she cried on my shoulder. She's been so strong for the kids, but she doesn't have to be for me.
"I know. It will be alright. Just let it all out."
How has she remained so calm? If one of my sons was taken, I'd be tearing Tokyo apart to find him.
"She's my daughter, Kumi. I need her back."
My phone beeped, and I read the text from my husband. Then I turned on the news.
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Indoor Garden, Morinozuka Estate:
I just wanted some peace and quiet. I didn't realize I'd stumble across Haruhi-chan's shrine for her parents.
Obviously, I've never met her mother, but I did meet her father several times. He joined us at the diner on Wednesdays, and he was at a fashion shoot once. Quite a unique man. He genuinely cared about his daughter and wanted the best for her, not just what he thought was the best. He didn't care what the world thought of him. He was happy in his own skin. Something so few of us can claim to be.
I sat on the sofa in front of the koi pond and watched the fish swim in circles. It's easy to picture Haruhi here. A quiet corner of the garden, koi for company, being watched over by her parents. I peeked in the mini-fridge and found it stocked with her favorite tea. Grabbing a bottle, I wiped a tear off my cheek and took a big gulp.
Where is she? What is happening to her? And why?
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
"Anything?"
"Just sitting there." I don't want to second-guess the boss, but this bitch is holding out longer than we thought. "What next?"
"We'll let her sit there until after lunch." His grin was evil. "Then I've got a plan."
"And the other girl?"
"She's the plan. Leave her where she is for now. And," he glared at me, "Don't touch her too much."
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Security Headquarters, Himura Compound:
"It is our fault. We accept your punishment."
I watched those fucking security guys kneeling in front of Junto-san, their foreheads pressed to the floor. They were released from the hospital about an hour ago and came straight here.
I wonder if Junto-san would be angry if I beat them to death right now.
"Tell me," he growled at them, "why I shouldn't have you killed."
"We deserve it. We allowed the heir to be taken."
Junto-san seemed to be considering it, but I spoke up, "I want you dead. I could beat you to death right here with my bare hands. I could kill you slowly by a thousand cuts. I could make you beg me for death." One of them started trembling. Pathetic.
"But if anyone is going to kill you, it's Shinobu. When," I said it again harder, "When she's back, she'll decide what to do with you."
Junto-san stared at me and then them. "A fitting punishment. Until then," he turned his back on them, "you'll each be in one of our solitary cells waiting her return."
Then they were escorted out.
I hope their cells are as disgusting as ours are.
.
"Ritsu-sama, I deserve to join them."
I ran the detail. I was in charge. Me. Kono Kenji.
"Oh, fuck no," he spun and pointed at me. "You're not going anywhere until you clean up your fucking mess. You were responsible for her safety. You! And you will stay and help us find her. And when we do, you're at her mercy."
He turned back and addressed Junto-sama, "That work for you?"
"It's fitting."
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Hatano's Go Salon, Tokyo:
"Oh, shit."
A huge crowd of young girls and women surrounded the building. All of them had cell phones. They were all either taking selfies or pictures of the crowd. What they're hoping to accomplish, I don't know. It's not like Haruhi-sama's here now.
"The media's here."
Yes, they are. Mostly paparazzi taking pictures of the crowd for entertainment news, but I saw a camera from a local news station.
"Isn't that a photographer for the newspaper?"
Great.
"What are we going to do?"
I held back my exasperation. Endo-san's young and has been with Haruhi-sama less than a year. As the head of Morinozuka public relations, I'd been given full authority here by the head of the family and security.
"First, we get our security inside and help the owners clear the salon."
I reached for the door handle…here we go.
.
Suddenly, a group of at least a dozen men in suits forced their way through the crowd and into my salon. I saw another dozen or so pushing the crowd back and creating a path from door to the street. Are those police barricades?
What now?
I still don't understand what happened.
Today started out like any other Monday. We opened just after breakfast, the regulars came in and started their games, and my daughter served tea.
Then, out of nowhere, we were suddenly invaded by girls. They kept asking about Fujioka someone and didn't want to play. The crowd just kept getting bigger.
"Are you Hatano Atomu?" the clear leader asked as he gestured to his team to start clearing all the girls out. Looks like they're leaving my regulars alone.
"Yes. And you are?"
"Morinozuka security. We've come to help you with the crowd."
Great…Wait…What?
"Morinozuka security? Why are you here?"
"Is there a private office we could use?"
The other security men were politely escorting the girls from the store and behind the barriers. Are those news cameras?
"What is going on?"
"Please, Hatano-sama," he swept his hand in the direction of my office, "in private is best."
.
My father's going to kill me. This is all my fault.
How was I supposed to know those idiot fans would swarm the salon? Why would they think she's here now? It's not like she lives here.
"Kazue-san?"
I turned and found an older woman, maybe in her 50's, standing in the newly emptied salon. Her suit was not an 'Every Woman' suit, but one that cost ten times more. Her jewelry was real. She oozed power. The younger woman next to her looked vaguely familiar. She was wearing the 'Every Woman' model I'm currently saving for.
"Yes?" Over her shoulder I saw one of the security guys turn the lock and flip the sign to closed. "Hey, you can't close the salon."
"It's for the best, Kazue-san." Her tone was between businesswoman and mother. I didn't like it. "I think we should discuss your tweet."
My father's going to kill me.
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Personal Assistant Offices, Morinozuka Estate:
"Oh, no."
I walked into Aoi's office and held out my tablet. "Haruhi-sama has a therapy appointment today after classes. What do I do?"
She leaned back in her seat and tapped her lip with her pen. How can she be so calm?
"Cancel it with no explanation, then talk to Umeko-sama. She'll decide if anything else needs to be done."
"What else would need to be done?"
"They might want to inform her therapist so she can be ready when Haruhi-sama comes back. No matter what has happened to her, she'll need help."
That poor girl.
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Renge's Guest Room, Morinozuka Estate:
I only wallowed in self-pity for a few minutes at the koi pond before I got up to do something I could do.
I knocked and walked right in.
"Renge?"
She's staring out the window. Didn't acknowledge me.
I made some noise shutting the door. "Renge?"
She turned around, and I know I gasped. She's a mess. Hair in a bird's nest, puffy eyes, tear tracks down her cheeks, handkerchiefs in both hands.
"He hates me."
"Oh, Renge," I went over and put my hand on her arm, "I'm sure that's not true."
The resigned look on her face scared me. "He walked out on me, Cho. Walked out." Her eyes stared into mine, trying to make me understand. "And did you hear what he said? He said he didn't know who I was anymore."
Tears welled up and starting to run down her cheeks. "He doesn't know me anymore." I had to strain to hear her.
"Renge, I'm so sorry."
I pulled her close and stroked her hair.
"With everything that's going on, I've forgotten how close you are to Haruhi."
With that, she cried even harder.
"It must be torture to be strong for the rest of us when you're hurting so much inside."
"I want her back," she whimpered.
"I know. I do, too."
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Texts to the Group [emoji]:
Osamu [designee who gave her strawberries] to Haruhi: Haruhi? Please respond. Are you alright? Twitter is crazy, and you didn't come to class. You'd never miss just for an after-action report.
.
Friend to Yuki: Is it true? Are you in hiding? Respond!
.
Friend to Kasanoda: Hey, I know that little Fujioka's your friend, but why aren't you here? You avoiding the test? [eye roll]
.
Daniele [Italian swimmer] to Hikaru: My Japanese is terrible, but I follow your tags. Isn't Haruhi Fujioka that little girl we met in St. Louis? Is she alright?
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Mie [mother] to Cho: Please let me know you're ok. You're father's so angry. I think you should come home. Please call
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Koizumi Anzu [girl who's been trying to get to know Chika]: Chika-kun? It's me, Anzu. Is everything alright? Twitter is so strange right now. I'm here if you want to talk. [phone]
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Friend to Akito: Where are you? Weren't we supposed to meet at the library to go over our notes for the final?
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One of many of his dancing partners to Satoshi: Oh, Satoshi-kun. You must be so worried about your friend. I'm here for you, no matter what you need. [red heart]
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Member of study group to Honey: you left so quick yesterday. When can you reschedule?
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xXx
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Late Morning, Warehouse in Tokyo – nowhere near the docks:
62 – Pliers – can't believe I didn't think of that one before
63 – Starvation…staple his fucking lips shut
64 – Strangle him with Kasa's collar
65 – Skin the fucker alive
66 – Have Kasa bite his balls off
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xXx
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Author's Note:
Lots to keep track of…lots of spinning plates.
I wonder how different my writing process would be if I wrote the entire story before publishing? How much smoother would it be if I could go back and change things? Would I ever even finish without feedback from my readers? Guess we'll never know. But…not being able to change what's already been published really sucks sometimes. Hope we don't leave too many inconsistencies. I can't could how many times Dad and I have read through this.
So…both girls are awake and interacting with their kidnappers, but neither knows the other was taken. And we now know why. The trafficking. This is where I was always going with this. The letters are still an issue, but Dad and I always had the traffickers as the kidnappers. But when will the families and security figure it out?
Starting to see security's nerves getting frayed. Did you know that during the aftermath of 9-11 in NY, rescuers had to hide and let the dogs find them because they were getting depressed not finding any survivors? (I'm not getting into politics here – no way.) Just pointing out that no results can cause frustration and dulling of reactions. We're seeing that here.
And what about the security guard with the nicknames? Did you see that coming? I'd been leaving breadcrumbs since before the island, but they were very small.
Bu's angry at her security, as she should be. Haruhi feels betrayed. Think that works for both of them. Eiji, Miwa, and Kono all have a lot to answer for. What do you think should be done with them? I thought leaving Bu's guards' fates to her was perfect and just what Ritsu would suggest. I'm sure he'll hold her purse while she kills them.
And I cut off all Shinobu's hair. Remember it was long enough to sit on. Ritsu could probably beat someone bloody just for that.
Bu recognized the voice of the head guy and gave a hint where she met him. Any guesses? I've known it would be him since before I introduced his character. This trafficking and kidnapping have been in the outline since two stories ago. Dad and I are so excited to finally be getting to it.
Poor Yuki. I hope I did her justice when she found out. There's more in the next chapter about her dealing with it. She'll come through alright. I'm not that much of a monster.
And because I can't keep anything simple, the Go salon was identified. Her father should be furious.
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Next Chapter:
Miwa and his team back from the hospital…More from the Go salon…Tamaki and Renge have a heavy discussion…Security makes a decision…Twitter gets even weirder…Someone's secret is revealed…Hikaru accuses Chika…Yuki feels better…Haruhi learns something…and Kyoya stays sober.
See you in two weeks.
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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.
