Author's Note:

Surprise! Thought I'd give you a chapter for Christmas!

How about giving us a review as a present?

And a huge thank you to those who've reviewed. Although I think momstable and beancounter22765 have both hacked my outline. Be careful or you'll end up on Santa's naughty list for next year.

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xXx

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Date Posted: 12/24/2022

Trigger Warnings: Language

The Painful Truth - Chapter 10: The Statement

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Tuesday, September 27 (Continued):

Late Afternoon, Haruhi's Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

Pain.

My whole arm hurts.

"Haruhi?"

That voice. That soft, quiet voice.

"Takashi?"

When I opened my eyes, he was there. Dark circles under his eyes. Forehead puckered. I felt him squeeze my hand.

"You're in the hospital. You're safe."

"What happened?"

"What do you remember?"

What did I remember?

He squeezed my hand tighter as the beeping sped up.

"You're safe now. Nothing can happen to you here."

"I remember the warehouse. The knife. Then you. You running in. You…"

"I was there. The medics came and got you in the helicopter. Do you remember the helicopter?"

Did I? "No."

"You've had two operations. One for your face and the other for your hand."

That's when I saw how tight his eyes were. How ridged his posture was, though he was doing a good job of hiding it.

"They went fine, Sweetheart." I glanced to my right and saw Umeko-san. She looked as tired and worried as Takashi. "Now that you're awake, the doctor will walk you through what happened."

"Fujioka-san, I'm Oinuma Makiko. I operated on your hand. We successfully removed the knife…"

Her voice muffled. My hand? It's wrapped up in so many bandages, I can only see the tips of my fingers.

"It's throbbing."

I must have interrupted her. When I looked over, she was frowning. "We'll get you another dose of pain meds." She signaled the nurse. "As I was saying, the knife didn't sever any tendons and only slightly nicked one of the metacarpals. Infection is our primary worry right now. The wound was exposed to unsanitary conditions."

The room started spinning as my face went hot. Unsanitary? I messed myself like a baby.

"It's alright, Sweetheart. The nurses cleaned you up."

How did she know?

"Right now, I see no reason why you shouldn't regain most if not all of the use of your hand. We'll know for sure in a day or two when physical therapy does an assessment."

I might not be able to use my hand?

Umeko-san brushed my bangs off my forehead, and I finally noticed the bandages. "My face?"

"The plastic surgeon closed the cut. There should only be a faint scar."

"Well," the doctor smiled at me, "I'll check in on you in a couple of hours. You're cleared for a light dinner."

That's when my stomach growled loud enough for the entire room to hear.

"How about some broth?" Umeko-san held up a mug. "We'll heat it up in the microwave."

There's a microwave in my hospital room? Rich bastards.

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xXx

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Late Afternoon, Medical School:

"I want the medical school campus closed to the press. Get campus security on it now. This is ridiculous."

What's the point of being an Ootori if I can't protect myself and my grades.

"I want to know how they got my finals schedule. Who leaked it. I want them fired."

I spun away from Teraughi and the press and headed in for my final.

"Hey, Ootori-san. Isn't your fiancée friends with that Fujioka-san?"

"I saw you on the news going into the hospital. You aren't treating them, are you?"

They stepped back at my glare. I learned from the best – Yoshio.

I tore through that final like it was nothing. Good thing I can concentrate better when I'm furious.

.

I held the limo door open for Akito-sama, and he climbed in. "Join me back here."

That's different.

We were well away from the campus before he spoke. "Thank you for getting rid of the press."

"You're welcome, Akito-sama. They will be kept away during all your finals."

He nodded and continued to stare out the window. He's angry and trying not to take it out on me. Hence the formality.

With a big sigh, he pulled a bottle of water out of the minifridge and downed half of it in one go.

"Ouran's going to be a nightmare for Yuki. She can't handle all the press. Or all the crazy students."

I agree. Even with Numata as her head, she'll still be exposed.

"Double her team. And I want a guard on her inside the school."

"I'm not sure we can…"

"Oh, yes. We can. Haruhi had her own there for a while. Yuki didn't know why, but she did. And if a ward of the Morinozuka's can, then the fiancée of an Ootori sure as hell can."

"I'll talk to their security."

"No," he pulled out his phone, "I'll call Suoh Yuzuru. The entire group is going to be harassed. He needs to protect them."

.

xXx

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

"There better either be pizza or testicles in there, Asshole."

"You just got out of recovery, Shinobu. Your stomach isn't up to that."

"I think I'm a better judge of what my stomach can handle than anyone else right now, Mother." I rolled my head to the side to glare at Ritsu. "Balls or pizza?"

"There's a pizza, but are you sure you want to eat it? Think about all that pressure in your head if you throw up."

Fuck. He's right.

I'm not going through that fucking surgery again because I had to have double pepperoni.

They finally rolled me into the room and started hooking me up to all the machines. I hate that damn beeping.

Wait.

"Where's Haruhi?"

I must have been shaking my head because Mom grabbed the sides and tried to hold me still. "Don't move so much. You don't want to undo what they just did."

"Yeah, Bu. They'll put that brace on your head again if you move too much."

"Where's Haruhi?"

Damn beeping. Getting faster.

"Calm down."

"No, I will not calm down. Where is she!"

Ritsu got up in my face but kept his voice down, "She's next door. Right through that wall," he pointed to my right.

"I want her in here. I need to see her. I need to know she's alright."

I was prepared to go through what we went through. I'd had the training. She didn't. Her hand. Her face. I have to see her. I have to know.

"Shinobu," Mom started in that tone I hate, the one that she uses when she thinks I'm still a little girl and not the badass I am, "she's next door. You can see her tomorrow after you both have a good night's sleep."

"Fuck that. I need to see her. Now!"

Mom's just shaking her head. Ritsu's just standing there.

"HARUHI!"

"Shinobu!"

"HARUHI!"

"What is all this noise?" I saw some nurse run in the door. "This is a hospital. You must be quiet."

"Then either get Fujioka in this room or move me to hers, because I'm not going to shut up until I see her."

Stupid nurse just looked around the room.

"HARUHI!"

She came up and grabbed my shoulder. "Give me five minutes."

"You have three."

And she ran out the door.

.

"What is all the noise?" Morinozuka-sama asked me when I dashed in. "Is someone yelling for Haruhi?"

"Yes. Himura-san is demanding to see her."

"Shinobu?" I turned to the bed. Good. She's awake.

"Yes. She wants to know you're alright."

She started to sit up. "I can go to her room. It's fine."

"No."

"NO!"

"Don't move!"

I ignored all the family. "Fujioka-sama, please don't get up."

"But she can't walk with her hip, right?"

"That wall," I pointed to her left, "is removeable. I came to get your permission to open it so you two could share a room."

A slow smile spread across the unbandaged side of her face. "Yes, please."

.

The nurse came back right as Bu was counting down the last ten seconds. We had to turn the bed slightly so she could see the clock.

"Where is she?"

"Himura-sama, please calm down." She should get a bonus for being patient with my crazy wife. "That wall, she pointed to her right, is removable. I just got permission from Fujioka-sama and the Morinozuka's to open it. Facilities is on their way."

"Good."

Maybe she'll let the nurse live.

.

As soon as the first panel of the wall opened, I started yelling again, "Haruhi! You there? I can't see with this fucking eyepatch."

"I'm right here, Shinobu. Wait till they get the wall down and I'm sure they can turn your bed a bit."

Ritsu was already shoving it.

Then she came into view.

Face bandaged, covering her eye; hand wrapped up so much it looked like a club.

But alive. And smiling. OK, not her full smile, but half her face was covered.

"Hey."

"Hey."

"You OK?"

"Better now that I can see you." I laughed at myself, "Even if it's only with one eye."

"Looks like we've got two good eyes between us."

Ritsu groaned. "Bad pun, Haruhi."

She just smiled at him.

"What'd the doc say about your hand?"

"Didn't hit anything important. With physical therapy, I should be able to use it like normal." Her smile faded. "What about your hip?"

"Nothing important. I'll be up and around in a day or two."

The rooms got quiet. Just the beeping. Not in sync. That's going to make me fucking nuts.

"Umeko-san was just about to heat up some broth for me. Want some?"

"Sure," I sighed. "Guess it's better than testicles."

"What?"

The whole group over there was staring. "Never mind. Inside joke."

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xXx

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Evening News:

All around Tokyo, people settled down to watch the evening news…

Girls' patient room

"You've just seen a clip from this morning's press conference with Tokyo Metro's Deputy Superintendent Yokota Yasauaki. To recap, ten locations were raided early this morning resulting in almost two hundred arrests and the rescue of one hundred and thirty-two women and girls from human traffickers…"

.

I'd watched Arisa and Junto all day. Neither of them, especially Arisa, were OK with what Shinobu-chan did. Junto's still angry.

I walked up behind them on their sofa and leaned down to whisper, "All of those girls are alive right now. Because of her."

We all looked over at her bed, where her good eye was glued to the TV.

"Remember that. She risked her life for those girls. You raised the right kind of heir."

Arissa couldn't hold back the tears, but Junto turned to me and nodded. "Thanks Ryuu." He looked back at her. "We're angry. But we need to remember to be proud."

.

Tokyo Main, office commandeered by Kyoya

"Tokyo Main is closed to the press. We've been told both girls have undergone two operations each, all of which were a success…"

.

"They're both settled in their room. They insisted on the wall between them being opened."

I nodded and continued typing. This paper is due tomorrow, and apparently the Ootori name isn't good enough to get me an extension with this particular professor.

Maybe I should have him fired.

"All the Black Onion Squad officers that participated in the raid of the warehouse have finished their debriefs with the police and are now off-duty. The police will let Morimoto know if they need any follow-ups."

"Fine. I'll talk to him later this week about bonuses. They earned them."

I saw Tachibana nod out of my peripheral vision and finished the last sentence. I'll read it over once then email it. With the time difference, I'll just make the deadline.

"All the rescued women and girls are receiving treatment. A few didn't need to be admitted and have been released into the care of Kakurega [Safe House]."

I jerked my head up to look at him. "Kakurega? I thought Lighthouse was taking care of them."

"Once they've been rescued, Kakurega takes over. They see to their recovery."

"Even while they're still in the hospital?"

He nodded.

"I'll call their director tomorrow and make sure the hospitals are giving them everything they need."

I hit send and closed my laptop.

"Let's go next door to the hotel and have dinner. I think their restaurant is acceptable."

"Thank you, Kyoya-sama."

"For what?"

"For not making me make you eat."

I just smirked at him and walked out of the office I'd commandeered.

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Girls' Patient Room

"You're watching footage from early this morning showing Fujioka Haruhi and Himura Shinobu being wheeled out of a warehouse in the Kabukicho District after being rescued from human traffickers.

"They're currently being treated at Tokyo Main. We have no details on their injuries…"

.

And you won't get them if I have my way.

"Umeko-san?" She said it so quietly, I almost didn't hear her. She'd dozed off. Guess the TV woke her up.

My fingers paused running through her hair. "Yes, Sweetheart?"

"Where is everyone?"

"Most of your friends are eating dinner. They wanted to let you sleep."

"Could I have some water, please?"

Takashi picked up the glass on her nightstand. "Here, Haruhi."

.

She's so small in that hospital bed.

I'd asked her if she wanted to talk about what happened, but she refused. I think she needs to, but in a way I'm glad she doesn't want to yet. I'm not sure I'm ready to face everything I saw.

When we ran into that warehouse and I saw that knife. And her face. I think my heart stopped.

Even after Chika told me what happened, I don't remember Daiju. It's all a blur except Haruhi.

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Private Room, Hotel Restaurant

"In fashion news, Every Woman suits are flying off the shelves…"

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This is not how I wanted the line to be successful. People are such ghouls.

"They were selling well before this shit, Kaoru. Let it go."

How does he know?

"Because you're my little brother."

"Will you cut it out with that little brother shit!"

"Nope."

He dove back into his steak, but I'd lost my appetite.

I saw the bandages on her face. Will she even want to model again? Will that scar always be the first thing everyone sees?

We need to select a couple secondary models and start featuring them heavily in the ads. Not as replacements, but as backups. Maybe we could do an open call and look for women who've never modeled. Single mothers?

I'll email Suwa-san and Shiojiri-san. As director of advertising and our head photographer, they'll know how to make it happen.

.

"I really think we should, Tamaki-kun. Just for an hour or so."

"Won't that be rude?"

"No. Everyone, including the artist, will understand if we leave early to come back to the hospital. But you worked hard to get him to show at the gallery, we really should be there."

I don't like it. It feels so wrong to go about my regular business while my darling friend is in the hospital. It's been less than a day since her rescue, and I only got to see her for just a minute.

She was so tired.

"What suit do you want? I'll text your maid."

"The Charcoal gray with a black shirt and tie."

"Tamaki-kun." I jumped when Renge-chan's hand touched mine. "They aren't dead. The doctors say they'll be fine. How about some color?"

I tried to smile back, but I know it was a sad one. "How about you pick for me. Something that matches your dress."

"Alright."

She leaned over and kissed my cheek. "I love you."

"I love you, too."

.

Double Yuki's team – check

Call Suoh-san about Ouran security – check. Extra security will be with the group and patrol the halls to keep them from being swarmed. Any of the group that wish it, can have a personal guard. Numata confirmed for Yuki.

Keep press away from the rest of my finals – check. Campus security's handling

Call Fuyumi - check. She's fine. Baby's fine. Her security's tightened against the press

I'm pretty sure Kyoya had already thought of everything when I called and told him what I'd done. He had the good grace to not laugh at my overprotectiveness.

"Akito-kun?" Yuki'd finished her dinner and was watching me tap away on my tablet. "Is everything alright?"

I tried to give her a reassuring smile. Judging from her raised eyebrow, it didn't work. "I'm confirming some new security procedures because of the press." I tried the smile again. "I've doubled your detail."

She took it better than I thought. "Because of the press, right? Not because you think I'm in danger."

"Correct. I just don't want them bothering you."

"I don't want that either. Thank you."

I went back to my tablet, and she picked up her teacup.

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Girls' Patient Room

"Of course, Himura Shinobu denies involvement in the trafficking, but what was she really doing?"

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What was I doing? What was I doing!?

Saving those girls. That's what I was fucking doing.

There must be some way to clear all this shit up. I will not be talked about like that.

.

"Hey, Crazy Chick."

She glanced over with her good eye, and I rubbed her arm up and down. "Fuck them and what they think. You saved those girls. You know it. I know it. That's all that matters."

"Not to me."

.

Lighthouse offices

"We are currently unsure of yakuza involvement. The police will neither confirm nor deny. The only thing they will say is that Himura Shinobu was working to end the trafficking ring, and the Himura syndicate was not involved in any way…"

.

The director tossed her pen on the table and groaned.

She'd called this meeting of the Lighthouse management staff, and we're all sitting here watching the news.

"Looks like we're going to have to work with her after all."

And as the head of PR, she means me.

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Private Room, Hotel Restaurant

It's a good thing I only have one final tomorrow. I'm not sure I passed today's, I was so worried about Cho-chan.

When she told me about her conversations with her father and brother, it took every bit of my self-control not to explode. How dare Daizo-san think I'd ever put his daughter, the love of my life, in danger. I thought I'd proven myself to him, or at least was well on the way.

And now he questions her safety?

My fork hit my plate, and I took a deep breath.

Haru-chan and Shinobu-chan were taken. We can't deny that. Their teams were there, deployed around the store. It should never have happened.

Maybe Daizo-san has a point.

When things calm down a bit, there needs to be a full debrief and detailed after-action report. We all need to know exactly where security broke down and who needs to be retrained and who needs to be replaced.

"Honey-kun?" I looked down at her hand squeezing mine. "We need to get our parents together and the six of us have it out. This all needs to be settled soon before someone says or does something they can't take back."

"How about Thursday night for dinner?"

"We could do it here."

"Here?"

"Yes. I don't want to go back to the Morinozuka's tonight. I think we should all move into the hotel until Haruhi and Shinobu can go home."

"That's a great idea, Cho-chan!"

I stood up and got everyone's attention. "Let's all move in here until they go home. Security's already got the hospital locked down and are watching the hotel anyway."

"Great idea, Honey-senpai." Renge-chan reached for her phone, "I'll text my assistant. She can book the rooms. How many do we need?"

.

Private Waiting Room, Tokyo Main

"Fujioka Haruhi, the face of the Every Woman line, has yet to make a statement. There's speculation she's disfigured and won't be able to continue modeling…"

.

"It needs to be short and simple. She's not going to kill all the rumors with a three-minute statement."

"And I think she needs to tell everyone she's going to continue to model." Akabane-san waived at the TV. "You just heard what I did. They think she's been disfigured."

"She has." I reached up and started rubbing my temples. I have neither the time nor the patience for this woman right now. "There's no way we can deny it if we put her on camera. Half her face is covered in bandages."

"She can still tell them she'll continue modeling."

"No, she can't."

When it was obvious she wasn't going to let it go, Hara-san stepped in. "He's right. She can't confirm she'll stay the face of the line until we know she will, and right now, we don't know."

"Listen. I'm her agent. I've spoken with her guardians. She's not ready to confirm or deny anything having to do with Every Woman or Petto Chinmi. She only needs to speak on camera to show everyone she's not dead. Thank them all for the well-wishes. That's it."

Endo-san was doodling on her notepad. She hasn't spoken with me since that conference call where I told her she wasn't Haruhi-sama's point person anymore. Guess I really put her nose out of joint. Oh well, she's an adult. She'll bounce back or she won't stay in this business for long.

Hara-san finished another cup of coffee. "Her therapist still has to sign off on her even giving a statement."

"They're talking right after the news is over."

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Guest Room attached to Haruhi's Patient Room

"Now that we're getting a clearer picture of events, one must wonder how kidnappers were able to take both a Morinozuka ward and a yakuza heir right under their security team's noses…"

.

"Eiji, turn that damn thing off." I did and dropped the remote on the table. "And close the door."

I rolled over to close the door, but not before taking one last look at Haruhi-sama.

Once I'd closed it, he frowned at me, "Go home. Get some sleep." He scrubbed his hands through his hair. He's exhausted despite the nap he had. "I'm not sure when Haruhi-sama will be ready to discuss changes to her security team, but you need to be ready."

"But…"

"Don't. I know what you're going to say, and you aren't needed here tonight. The hospital is flooded with hospital security, Black Onion Squad officers, guards from all the different group PPD details, Morinozuka, and Haninozuka guards. Plus, Takashi-sama's sitting right next to her. You are not needed."

I stared at the cast on my foot.

Oshiro's right.

Even if I was the only one here, I couldn't protect her like this.

"When does that thing come off?"

"Tomorrow afternoon. I'll be out of the wheelchair and in a walking boot."

"Fine. Go home. Get some sleep."

I nodded and pulled out my phone to text for a ride.

.

Girls' Patient Room

"No matter what happened, they are both facing a long road of recovery."

"That was Okazaki Yuji, one of Japan's foremost experts on the mental health of kidnapping victims."

.

I held back a snort and watched Haruhi. The report made her uncomfortable. That might be a good thing. I couldn't see Shinobu-san well from this angle.

I attended one of Okazaki's seminars a year ago. He may be right about a hard recovery, but I wouldn't let him near either of these girls. His methods are outdated, and he most definitely can't relate to young girls.

Her agent and some of the PR people want to talk to her about a statement, and I insisted on talking to her first, in private. She's not ready to unpack everything that happened. It may be a week or two before she truly opens up with me about all that. But I want to assess her mental state before they insist on a statement. If she's not ready for that, I'll let Umeko-sama know.

.

My footsteps echoed in the empty hallway, and I stopped in front of some floor to ceiling windows at the end.

Since they were born, I've protected the boys. Taught them about the world while doing my best to keep them out of the ugliness of it. I had no idea a daughter would be so different. Wanting to hide her away. Keep her from everyone and everything.

I imagine if Umeko and I had a daughter, I'd feel the same way about her as I do about Haruhi-chan.

How are we going to get her through this? What's best? Help her face everything? Protect her from the world? She's too independent for that. Even with this trauma, I don't see her hiding. Or at least not for long.

The cold glass felt good as I leaned my forehead against it. Umeko and I need to go to bed soon. We just need to see her through her statement for the news.

But whatever happens, however we adjust to this, it must be her choice. If she's not in control, she won't be comfortable with the arrangements. Umeko and I, security, even Takashi can suggest, but not order, not insist. It must be her choice.

I'm so tired.

.

Other Yakuza Syndicates

"The events of the last twenty-four hours leave many wondering just how involved are the yakuza in human trafficking. How prevalent is it in our city? Who are the customers for this disgusting service?

"Throughout the coming days, weeks, and months multiple police investigations will be sparked from the evidence gathered, and many investigative journalists will start probes through their own contacts…"

.

"Fucking great. Daiju and his unchecked greed have put us all in the crosshairs."

.

"We need to get rid of our girls quickly and quietly before someone leaks our operation."

"Sell them or kill them?"

"I think we have time to get them out of the country. Call our contact in Nagoya."

.

"We may run guns, drugs, and counterfeit art, but my mother would have skinned me alive if I trafficked."

"Yes, Sir."

"Looks like it's a race. Which syndicates that don't traffic will be the first to inform on those that do."

"Should I prepare a drop for our police contact?"

"No. I need to talk to our lawyer first."

.

"But your son would never…"

"I'm sure that's what Dai thought." I shot my head of security a death glare. "Now find out what my son's up to."

.

"Dai called earlier today. He's giving his entire fucking syndicate to that Himura girl."

"You're shitting me."

"Wish I was. And we can't do a damn thing about it, or we'll look like assholes."

"Even the legit stuff? The apartments?"

"Yeah. If the syndicate owns it, she's getting it. Junto and Ryuu let him take his personal wealth. Guess they believed him that Daiju was doing it on his own."

"Shit. We were going to move on his territory next month."

"Cancel everything. We'll start a war that everyone will have to join if we do that."

.

"And I said I want his detail tripled."

"Don't you think that's a little much?"

"No. Because until we do a complete evaluation of our security and figure out how a bunch of reject yakuza muscle kidnapped an heir, I don't consider my heir safe."

"Yes, Sir."

.

xXx

.

Evening, Guest Room Attached to Haruhi's Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

"How are you feeling?"

"Much better now that I'm moving around." It was awkward with my hand all wrapped up and an IV, but I stretched as much as I could before sitting down. So far, they'd only let me out of bed for the bathroom.

I'm not sure what Inoue-sensei wants to talk about, but I can't do a full therapy session right now. I don't even want to think about what happened yet.

She crossed her legs and balanced her notebook on her knee. "This is just a quick check-in. Umeko-sama wanted us to touch base and see if there's anything you want to discuss, and I wanted to do it privately."

I made my voice as firm as possible, "Not yet."

"Alright. There's plenty of time for that later. It may take a week or more before you want to talk to me about what happened."

Good. "Does that mean we're done here?"

The side of her mouth turned up into a half smile. I should have known better.

"Your agent, Inokuma-san, wants you to give a statement."

Took me a second to find my voice. "A statement? Like to the press?"

"Yes. You haven't seen social media since all this started, but there are dozens of crazy rumors out there, one claims Shinobu-chan was involved in the trafficking, one even claiming you're dead and the Morinozuka's are covering it up."

"That's ridiculous."

"Definitely. Inokuma-san thinks most of them can be dispelled with a quick, on camera statement by you."

I touched the bandages on my face gently with my left hand. "Looking like this?"

"It might be best if you discussed the details with him, Hara-san, Endo-san, and Akabane-san. I'm here to assess your mental state to make it in the first place."

"I'm tired, angry, scared, frustrated, anxious, hungry, and worried. Does that help?"

That got me another smile. "None of those are unexpected."

"Am I doing this live?"

"No. They're going to tape it for the nightly news. It will be your agent's staff, not a news camera and reporter."

"Where?"

"Your patient room, but not in your bed. They want you in a chair."

"What do you think?"

"I think you should consider the effect a statement will have. It will end some rumors and lesson the pressure on the group, your families, and your staff." She closed her notebook and leaned forward. "I also think you can use it to do some good."

"Like what?"

"They've kept your room clear, but you've received hundreds of flower bouquets, stuffed animals, candies, and various other gifts. You could ask the public to donate to Lighthouse instead."

Hundreds…what a waste.

"I need to talk to Shinobu first."

.

Haruhi slowly walked across the room and climbed back into her bed. They had to lower it all the way and bring in steps. She couldn't use either arm to lever herself in.

"They want me to make a statement to the press."

"Figured."

"Do you want to make one with me?"

I just stared at her, pissed off that the eyebrow I could raise by itself is covered with bandages. But she was waiting for an answer. Guess she's serious. "Fuck, no."

That got me snorts from my family, gasps from hers, and she just smiled with the half of her face I could see.

"But you can tell them I'm fine."

.

xXx

.

Evening, Haruhi Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

They had me in a chair with some art hanging behind me. The cameraman couldn't make the lighting work with me in front of the windows.

"No."

"But…"

"No," I practically barked at the makeup person. "I'm in a hospital with bandages all over. You can't hide that with concealer."

"Maybe just a little color on your cheeks, Sweetheart."

"Yeah, Haruhi. You don't want everyone to think you're dead and being used as a hand puppet, do you?"

I smirked at Shinobu, "You're just jealous they let me take a shower." And what an ordeal it was. My arm wrapped up in plastic. Me sitting on a stool while two nurses used hand sprayers so my face and hair wouldn't get wet.

Still completely worth it after being as dirty as I was. No amount of sponge baths could have ever convinced me I was clean.

"Damn straight."

"Stop complaining, Shinobu. They said you could have one in the morning."

"Not sure what difference a couple hours are going to do, Mom, but whatever."

But I'd heard the doctor. They didn't want her getting too hot and increasing the pressure in her head. Maked sense to me.

"Now, Fujioka-sama, if you'll look into the camera and read the screen."

.

…Statement recorded…

.

"That wasn't so bad, was it?"

Haruhi-chan just rolled her eye and walked slowly to the bed. Takashi and I helped her in, and he tucked the covers around her.

"You did well, Haruhi. It will help."

"Thanks, Takashi."

She was asleep within seconds.

"Thank you, Umeko-san, for allowing her to make the statement."

Her agent has a lot to learn about her if he thinks I allowed it. I followed Haruhi-chan's lead and would have stood in front of her like a wall if she didn't want to do it.

"I'm just glad it will do some good."

"It will. If nothing else, it will slow the parade of gifts."

"I hope so." Her assistant's so busy with all that mess we had to bring two additional staff from the estate to help. "Speaking of which," I looked around the room and didn't see Aoi, "I need to find my assistant. Hara-san, could you come with. Please excuse us."

I found Aoi, Honami, and several other staff members in the room down the hall that Kyoya-san set up for them.

Honami gave me a big smile when I walked in. "We solved the gift problem, Umeko-sama."

"Excellent." I poured a cup of tea and sat in the chair next to her desk. "How?"

"We brought over two vans from the estate. Once the flowers, candy, or whatever is cleared they are packed up in a van. Once a van is full, it takes all of that to the rescued girls in the other hospitals.

"That's perfect."

"We're keeping track of who sent a gift, when a full name is given, for the thank you cards."

"How many cards?"

"About seventy so far."

"Use the ones with her signature printed in them and enclose a small, autographed photo," Hara-san suggested. "She doesn't need to be involved."

Honami nodded, but I could tell she was a little offended. I'm sure she was going to do just that. She's come a long way in just six months.

I gave everyone the option to leave for the night, then made my way back to Haruhi-chan's room.

.

xXx

.

Evening, Yamamoto Apartment, Tokyo:

As they led Dylan out in handcuffs, I could do nothing but stand there watching, blinking back tears.

Embezzlement?

From Ranka's?

Millions of yen?

"I told you he wasn't good enough for you."

I turned away from the door towards my mother. She's wrapped up in blankets and propped up on the sofa. Her health's only gotten worse since Dylan and I moved out. I closed the door behind me and walked towards her. "What do I do now?"

"What do you want to do, Daichi?"

"I'm not sure what I can do. Our marriage isn't recognized here in Japan. I don't have spousal rights. They said I won't get to see him after he's processed."

"Do you know where the money he stole is?"

"It's not in the joint account. That I'm sure of."

"Then I suggest you empty it and open an account just in your name. You don't really want to help him pay for a lawyer, do you?"

"Mother, you are talking about my husband, not some guy I met last week."

"And I'm telling you to be a realist. Do you want to stay married to him after what he did?"

Do I?

We said, 'for better or for worse'. This is worse.

But I didn't think he would become a criminal.

Wait.

Is this why he was fired from his last job in the US?

"No. I suppose I don't."

"Can you get a divorce from here?"

"I have no idea." I dropped down next to her and hung my head. "What a mess."

When I felt her arm around me, I leaned towards her. Mother always knows what to do.

"First thing in the morning, you go to the bank. Then you pack up all his things and we'll figure out somewhere to store them. And check them for the money while you're at it." Her fingers combed through my hair, slowly relaxing me. "Then you can look for a new job."

"JOB!" I jerked up and stared at her. "I'm screwed. Takashi-sama will make sure I never work in Japan again."

.

xXx

.

Evening, Twitter:

(Gallery account) Tonight #NaguchiGallery is honored to present #CarlJames and his sculptures incorporated into minimalist furniture [link to gallery website, Carl James' website]

(News account) #SuohTamaki and #HoushakujiRenge Japan's #GoldenCouple at #NoguchiGallery [pics of them walking the carpet]

(Random account) #GoldenCouple so amazing. #SouhTamaki so handsome in blue suit and green shirt. Matches #HoushakujiRenge dress perfectly [pics of the couple, closeup of her ring]

(News account) #SuohTamaki #HoushakujiRenge at #NaguchiGallery Glad #FujiokaHaruhi is safe and recovering at #TokyoMain [video of statement Tamaki gave in front of gallery]

(Random account – retweet of above) #SuohTamaki didn't even mention #HimuraShinobu I thought they were friends. Maybe she's more involved with the #FujiokaKidnapping than the news is saying

(News account) photographers from #trashytabloid being escorted out of #NoguchiGallery Posed as customers. [pics]

(Show attendee account) Check out this art at #NoguchiGallery #CarlJames is a genius [pics of furniture/art]

(Different show attendee account) #SuohTamaki and #HoushakujiRenge only stayed half an hour. Said they needed to be back to hospital. Bummed. Wanted to meet them

.

xXx

.

Late Evening, Group text/Hotel next to Tokyo Main:

Renge: We're all checked in next door.

Shinobu: You didn't go home?

Renge: No Decided to stay here in hotel. Closer to you 2

Hikaru: maid just dropped off our stuff. Will be over in a few

Shinobu: NO

Ritsu: Haruhi sleeping. Bu tired. Come tomorrow

Tamaki: But I want to see my darling friend

Mori: No. Get some sleep. See you in the morning

.

"I can't believe they don't want us to visit. Mori-senpai's there. Why can't we go?"

I rolled my eyes, but only because my back was to him. "Hika, did you hear what you just said? Mori-senpai's there because they're dating. He's quiet. That's why."

"But…"

"Think about it. She's been kidnapped, stabbed, rescued, had two operations, and had a press statement filmed. Ritsu said she's asleep. We can see her tomorrow."

"This sucks." He grabbed his toiletry bag, "I'm taking a shower."

Is this his regular selfishness or is he backsliding?

I'll get him to call his doctor tomorrow.

.

When Yuki suggested we get a room together, I thought she just didn't want to be alone.

Now we're under the covers and she's practically naked.

My toes curled while I held myself back, her tongue licking my neck and chest.

"Hhhmmmmmm."

Was that me or her?

I shivered when her hands came around my back and slid down under my sleep pants. When she started kneading my ass, I couldn't stop my hips from bucking.

"Yuki…"

"Kiss me."

I slid my hands up the back of her nightshirt, pulled her to me, and kissed her hard.

.

"Thanks for rooming with me, Cho."

"It was a good idea. With everything going on, I didn't want to be alone, and it's not proper to share a room with Honey-kun."

"Or Tamaki-kun. That's a line we aren't crossing until after the wedding."

She tilted her head and gave me a weird smile. "Then what are those birth control pills in the bathroom for?"

My entire face flushed, and I looked down at my hands. I've worried my nails so much in the last two days, I need another manicure.

"Just in case."

"Just in case?"

"Yes. We were getting really close on the island, so I got the prescription. Because of the circumstances of his birth, he's got strong objections to premarital sex. But hormones and love can make people do stupid things, so I wanted to be ready. If we do cross that line, there will be no children."

She crawled under the covers of her bed and plugged in her phone. "I think you're being smart. Never know what could happen."

"What about you and Honey-senpai?"

Now it's her turn to blush. "We're a long way from that. Except for two times, we don't even kiss with tongues."

Didn't think so. Then again, those two could shock us all and be the first couple to get pregnant – on purpose, of course.

"We love each other and want to spend forever together, but that means more than…sex." The last word was practically a mumble. "There's plenty of time for that."

"Should I turn out the light?" There's no way I can sleep, but she's already curled up.

"No. I'm going to read on my phone for a while. Every time I close my eyes, I see Haruhi and Shinobu in their hospital beds."

"OK. There's a new anime I want to watch. I'll use my earphones."

.

I watched my fingers dance across the keyboard. Long fingers gently stroking the keys, coaxing out a sad melody.

Having my maid bring my keyboard to the hotel was a good idea. Music has always soothed me. I'd play for Maman to help her feel better. I'd play for me when I was lonely.

But now everything I play is sad.

I wish Renge-chan was here, but it's not appropriate for us to share a room until after we're married.

.

Why won't these numbers add up? I set up the spreadsheet right. Just like the instructor showed us in class. I'll never be a good accountant. I just need to know enough to read a budget and understand my accountants.

I wish Takashi was here. He'd see my mistake instantly.

I miss him. We used to spend all our time together, but when I started dating Cho-chan, we drifted apart. Then he took the semester off to train, and no one but Satoshi and Chika-chan saw much of him.

And now he's dating Haru-chan. After what she went through, she'll need him with her a lot.

There it is! That formula is wrong. Now they add up. I think I'm ready for my final tomorrow.

Mother and Father agree that Thursday night is a good time to speak with the Cho's about the contract. Cho-chan thinks she can get married without her parent's approval, but she wouldn't be happy.

Father and I will fix it.

Or, more likely, our mothers will.

.

"Put down the phone, Chika. It's after nine. Nothing's open."

He rolled over in his bed, facing away from me. "New York is opening in two hours. I'm getting my trading orders ready."

Just how much money does he have?

"I heard you talking to Father and Taka earlier."

"So?"

"So…did Taka really kill that man?"

He spun back and glared at me. "You weren't supposed to hear that."

"Obviously, but I did. I think Mother did too."

"Shit."

"Yeah."

It was quiet for a while. Just when I thought he wasn't going to say anything, he cleared his throat, "He didn't even know he did it."

"That's the scary part."

"No." He turned off his phone and sat up, "You weren't there. We'd been on edge for so long. Our springs tight for so long. When the Black Onion Squad officers stormed in with us right after and we saw her…it was like a dream. It didn't feel real. There was blood. And the smell. I don't know how long that body'd been there…"

"Body?"

"I'll get there." His eyes were haunted. I didn't interrupt him again. "Daiju was standing between Takashi and Haruhi. I don't think he realized he was a person, just something keeping him from her. I can understand him killing him that way more than if he planned it or knew what he was doing at the time. It was protective instinct, pure and simple."

"Yeah. I guess that makes sense."

"You can't tell him you know. You have to wait for him to tell you."

"And if he never does?"

"Then he never does."

Damn. "What about the police? Do they know?"

"We haven't been debriefed, but I'll tell them tomorrow during my interview. I can't not tell them."

"He won't get in trouble, will he?"

"No. Don't even think it. Self-defense for sure."

"Good. Now, what body?"

.

xXx

.

Night, Security Debrief Conference Call:

Morimoto (BOS Head): "…and that wraps up my summary of the rescue and what the police and I have done throughout the day. A full after-action report will be completed within forty-eight hours. If there's anything any of you want included, email my assistant in the next twenty-four.

"The police will debrief Takashi-sama, Chika-sama, Ritsu-sama, Haruhi-sama, and Shinobu-sama tomorrow morning at the hospital. Parents and security have been informed."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Thanks, Morimoto." I looked at everyone in the room with me and on the Zoom call. Over thirty counting all family heads, all group detail heads, various seconds, techs, and guards that were at the warehouse. It's a huge group.

"I know we all are exhausted, but we're not all together like this very often. I want to talk about overhauling how we all think about security for the group."

Lots of mumbling, but finally…

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "What do you mean by overhaul, and how involved do you see the syndicates?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): Figured he'd be first. "By overhaul, I mean just that. We had some bumps in St. Louis, but Sunday there were failures at the basic level which allowed four guards to be overtaken and two primaries to be kidnapped. Everything we do and how we do it should be on the table.

"As for the syndicates, I realize you have concerns we don't, but as long as Ritsu-sama and Shinobu-sama are with the group, you're involved and should be fully integrated into security."

Hibino (Himura Head): "As long as you realize there are certain things we can't discuss or change."

Morimoto (BOS Head): "As long as you're keeping them from us or not changing for a damn good reason."

Kawabata (Suoh Head): "We need to talk about numbers. And better trackers. And better training. And…"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Exactly. All that needs to be reviewed. Like I said, everything we do and how we do it needs to be scrutinized.

"Because of that, I think we need an outside consultant to do it. Someone who doesn't have a personal stake, doesn't have their career tied up in this, doesn't have the personal relationships we do with the families that might be clouding our judgement."

Osakada (Houshakuji Japan Head): "Who? Is there anyone any of us trusts enough to show them our entire operation? We're talking a lot of exposure here."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Ogata Yoshitaka."

Harada (Hitachiin Head): "He's the head of the emperor's security. He doesn't have time for us."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "I know him professionally. He hasn't announced it yet, but because of our connections training government troops, I know he's retiring next week. It's perfect timing."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "If he's retiring, what makes you think he'll want another job."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "I think he's retiring because he's bored, not because he's ready to stop working. His youngest is still in high school."

Kondo (Ootori Head): "An outside review is a good idea. We're all too used to the way we do things. We need a shakeup."

Oshiro (Morinozuka Head): "Agreed. Ishikawa, can you approach him and gauge his interest?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "I can. I'll tell him he can hire his own team, but it needs to include consultants from US Secret Service, Israeli military, British Royal Guard, and some with celebrity experience. They'll need to do a full review of everything we do: PPD, estate security, electronic security, social media monitoring. Everything.

Morimoto (BOS Head): "After issues with both Ryuzo and Tani, Kyoya-sama has ordered a full review of all BOS officers. I suggest the BOS hires Ogata-san and his team and bills out your shares. This gives them not only a point-person but a base of operations."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "Excellent." And I won't be the point person. It's time someone else steps up, and I respect Morimoto. "Let's talk after this, and we'll meet with him together."

Hibino (Himura Head): "And how do the syndicates integrate with this team?"

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "We're hiring the team for their expertise. Let's let them work it out with you and Fujii-san. Discussing it now could be a waste of time."

Fujii (Kasanoda Head): "Agreed."

Ishikawa (Haninozuka Head): "It's almost ten, and I know some of us need to watch the nightly news. Anything else?"

I answered the random concerns and ended the call.

.

xXx

.

Night, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

The smell of double pepperoni filled the room as we all sat down to watch the nightly news. Shinobu might have finally gotten her deep-dish, but I'm sticking with bland soup. I can drink from a mug with one hand, plus every time I look at my other hand, my stomach rolls.

"We here at channel five are honored to present an exclusive statement from Fujioka Haruhi. Here it is…"

"Hello."

I look almost dead. Maybe I should have let them use some makeup.

"Himura Shinobu and I would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of well-wishes. They mean a great deal as we move forward in our recovery."

She growled when I used her name. Glad they were right when they said it couldn't be heard on the recording.

"We also want to thank the Tokyo Metro Police and the Black Onion Squad for their tireless efforts in finding and rescuing us. Without a doubt, we wouldn't be here if not for them."

OK, that sounded corny.

"There are a lot of rumors out there on social media. We'd like to address a couple.

"We were not trafficked. We were victims of a kidnapping, nothing more. The true victims are the 161 women and girls discovered during police raids today and the 120 women and girls discovered in raids previous. Please don't forget them."

There, dammit. I will not let their sacrifice be belittled by my 'fame'.

"And Himura Shinobu has never been involved in human trafficking, either personally or through the Himura Syndicate. She's responsible for the discovery and rescue of all those women and girls. Her efforts brought down this trafficking ring and were nothing short of heroic."

Here's where they had to cut while we argued about it. She didn't like the word 'heroic', arguing anyone in their right mind would have done what she did. Needless to say, I won.

"And I'm honored to call her my friend.

"We also want to thank everyone for the flowers and other gifts. We appreciate every single one of them. However, we both believe the true victims need your support much more than we do. We'd like to encourage you to instead donate to either Lighthouse or Kakurega, both of which are helping the rescued women and girls.

"We also ask for private time with our families as we recover.

"Thank you."

Guess it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

.

Junto-san turned the TV off, and Haruhi slumped back on her bed. I don't think any of us, except Takashi, knew how nervous she was. I assumed recording the statement would be the hardest part.

I reached up and brushed her bangs from her face. "You did well, Sweetheart. It was perfect."

"Hn." My son of few words.

"Didn't have to keep using my name," Shinobu-san grumbled. "Now I'm fucking famous."

"I've always wanted to date a celebrity, you crazy chick."

"Shut up, Asshole."

Akira cleared his throat, "Some of you know this, but for those of you that don't, the police will be here tomorrow morning to take everyone's statements."

I felt her tense under my hand, and Takashi started gently rubbing her arm.

"It's perfunctory. No one is in any trouble. They just need to know what happened so they can file all charges."

"Who's being interviewed?"

"Haruhi, Shinobu-san, Takashi, Chika, and Ritsu-san. They want to speak to the boys individually. Yorihisa will be in the room with Chika since he's underage. I've convinced them to interview you girls together. Umeko and I will be here since Haruhi-chan's underage. Everyone will have a lawyer present as a precaution."

"Lawyer? I didn't do anything wrong?"

"Of course not, Sweetheart. We're just being safe, that's all."

.

Knew they'd be interviewing us soon. Maybe it will be with more fucking respect than when they interviewed me after that strip club.

I looked over at Haruhi and saw her picking at her blanket, Umeko running her fingers through her hair, and Mori-senpai rubbing her arm. She looks…crowded.

Mom and Dad are exhausted. I don't remember ever seeing Mom's hair look that bad. Well, maybe after my brother was shot but not since.

Ryuu doesn't look much better. Ritsu said he managed a nap at some point today.

"OK," I clapped my hands, "time for bed." That got their attention. "You parents need to get some sleep. You're dead on your feet. And you two," I pointed at Ritsu and Mori-senpai, "need to get out of here for a while. Haruhi and I need some girl time."

And time to breathe without everyone staring at us.

"Shinobu…"

"I mean it, Mom," but I said it gently. "We're fine. The operations are over. Nothing's going to happen between now and morning. Please get some sleep."

She stood up and kissed my forehead. That doesn't help my reputation as a badass, but I'll let it go for now. She did almost lose her other child.

"Alright, but your father and I are sleeping in your guest room. Have the nurse wake us up if you need us."

"Sure." Though I can't think what I'd need them for.

"Akira and I will be staying in your guestroom, Haruhi-chan. The same goes. Wake us if you need us."

"I will. Thank you, Umeko-san."

"Well, I'm going back to the compound," Ryuu-san said as he stood and gathered his stuff. "I'll be back in the morning. Let your maid know if you need anything, Ritsu, and I'll bring it."

"Thanks, Pops."

Then it was just the four of us.

"Hey. I wasn't kidding. The two of you get the hell out."

"I'm staying, you crazy chick."

"I didn't say you couldn't come back but get out for an hour or so."

Mori-senpai glanced and Haruhi, and she nodded.

Ritsu stood up and scrubbed his hands through his hair, "Whatever." He headed for the door, calling over his shoulder, "Come on, Mori-senpai. Let's leave so they can talk about us."

Mori-senpai simply rolled his eyes, gave Haruhi one last look, and followed.

.

xXx

.

Night, Kasanoda SUV:

"Relax, Mori-senpai. They've had people all around all day. I'm sure they just need some time alone."

"Hn."

I was surprised when Ritsu hit the elevator button for the parking garage. "Let's go get those girls a surprise."

"What?"

"You'll see."

We climbed into his SUV. "Himura Compound, through the back." Then he turned to me, "Don't worry. No one can see in these windows, and the back entrance is covered. You won't be spotted."

After Haruhi's interview clarifying Shinobu's role in the rescue, I think our families will be less concerned with our affiliations with both the Kasanoda's and the Himura's, but I kept that to myself. I don't want to speak out of turn.

The drive itself was almost thirty minutes, both of us lost in our own thoughts.

.

We left the compound and headed for the restaurant. I'd called in an order of noodles for Haruhi. She hasn't eaten anything but soup.

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Mori-senpai asked, pointing to our tag-along.

"Who's going to stop me? Ootori?"

He leaned back in his seat and rubbed his temples. We've both carried a shit ton of stress these last couple of days.

"They're going to be fine. Bu's definitely a badass, but so's Haruhi, in her own way."

"Hn."

A few minutes later, he sat up straighter and looked at me. "You two are good for each other."

I'm sure I have a stupid grin on my face. "We are." I waited a beat, "So are you and Haruhi."

"You don't have feelings for her anymore?"

"Nope," I shook my head, "it was a crush, that's it."

"Hn."

I couldn't help it. I've wanted to tell someone in the group for weeks, but who was I going to tell, Hikaru?

"Wanna know a secret?" That got me a raised eyebrow. "We're married."

"What?" Guess he can be surprised.

"Yep. Got married in Vegas. And no," I gave him a glare, "she's not pregnant."

"I didn't think she was."

The car was silent except for the wheels on the pavement until, "Are you happy?"

"Fuck, yeah. Best decision I've ever made. Things are solid with us. There's so much shit coming in the next year or so with both of us taking over parts of our syndicates and now with Bu getting the Chiba syndicate and my legit businesses taking off, we'll both be so busy. Getting married makes us partners and gives us one less thing up in the air."

"Then, I'm happy for you."

"Thanks. Don't tell anyone. We're not sure when we'll announce it or if we'll just have the wedding her mother's planning for the summer."

He just nodded and leaned back again.

.

xXx

.

Night, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

"So how are you really doing?"

I rolled my head to the left so I could see her better. "I'll answer that if you will."

"Sure. You first."

How am I doing?

"My hand hurts. It's throbbing. I don't want to, but I guess I'll have to ask for more pain meds. I don't think I'll sleep without it."

"Yeah…I didn't mean physically, and you know it."

I pulled in a deep breath and blew it out. "How do I put this?"

"Any damn way you want. It's only me here."

"OK." I looked down at my right hand. "Every time I close my eyes, I see the knife in my hand. It's like I can still feel it. I can still hear myself scream when he stabbed me."

"Makes sense."

"Really?"

"Yeah. It's not like you get stabbed every day. It was traumatic. It was horrific. You're allowed to not be alright. Shit…it wasn't even two days ago. Give yourself a break."

"What about you?"

She closed her eye. I saw a tear.

"Shinobu?"

"I see green hair and dead eyes. It's my fault that hacker's dead, and I don't even know his name."

It's not her fault.

"Did you put a gun to his head?"

"What? No!"

"Then he chose to help you."

"I offered him a lot of fucking money."

"It's still his choice, no matter why he made it."

"Doesn't make me feel better."

"Why should it? Like you said, it hasn't even been two days."

The room went quiet for a long time. I'm glad they turned off the beeping.

"I bet Kyoya-senpai could figure out who he was."

"Ootori? You want me to ask him after everything he did to you?"

.

I heard her gasp. Shit. She wasn't supposed to know I know about all that shit.

"Ritsu told you?"

Time to face the music. "Yeah, but don't be mad at him. He wanted one of the girls to know everything in case you needed help when the guys weren't around."

"Renge knows."

"Yeah, but she's not carrying a gun."

She gave me a small smile. "I'm not angry. Just don't think it was necessary."

"Well, I'm glad it wasn't, but it's better to be ready for anything."

"Yeah." She's going to unravel that blanket if she's not careful. "But we're putting it behind us. And I think he can help you."

"I'll ask Ritsu. He can ask Ootori. I'm not going to."

Another small smile.

"I'm just glad it's over."

If I could smack her upside the head, I would. "Haruhi, you realize it isn't right?"

She took a deep breath and held it so long I thought she'd pass out. "Guess it was too much to hope for."

"Yeah."

"So, what happens next?"

"No idea, but we've got Ritsu and Mori-senpai, not to mention my parents and the Morinozuka's to stand in front of us if we need them."

.

xXx

.

Night, Guest Room attached to Haruhi's Patient Room:

"I wish I could hear what they're saying."

"It's probably better you don't, Umeko. Whatever they're talking about, they need it to be between them. They went through something traumatic together. They'll need each other to get through it."

"Yes, you're right. Just look at how Shinobu-san insisted on the rooms being connected."

He gave me a quick smile, "Insisted is one way to put it."

"So, what happens next?"

"We get her well. We get her home. And we protect her."

"It's not that simple."

He kissed my forehead. "We have enough money and power to make it that simple."

.

xXx

.

Night, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

I heard Ritsu's boots coming down the hall, so I wasn't surprised when the boys opened the door.

"Got a visitor for you." And he pulled something from behind his back.

"Kasa!" I reached out, "Come to mama."

.

I watched that dog try to lick my crazy wife's face off and knew I did the right thing.

"Who's mama's little girl? Who's mama's good girl."

She better not talk to our kid like that.

"Ritsu got you some noodles," I heard Mori-senpai's soft voice when Bu stopped talking and let that dog lick her face again.

"Thanks, but I'm not really hungry."

"I'll put them in the refrigerator for tomorrow."

"Thank you."

She's going to have to eat more than soup soon. She's already so thin she could blow away.

"Did you two have your girl time?"

"Yeah. Thanks for disappearing."

"No problem. Gave me a chance to get the mutt." I gave her a dopy grin. That tail wagging and her smile was just what I needed.

"Someone groomed her."

"Yeah. Your maid knew you wouldn't want to send her out, so she did it."

.

When Takashi came back from the little kitchenette, he sat down and laced his fingers with my left hand.

"How are you feeling?"

I'm so sick of that question.

"Can you ask the nurse for more pain meds. My hand's throbbing, and I don't think I can get to sleep."

"Of course," he squeezed my hand and pushed the call button.

.

"How long can she stay?" I gave Kasa another hug.

"Figured I'd send her back in the morning with your mom's maid. She's bringing some more clothes for your parents."

"That works."

She reached out, grabbed my pants by the waistband, and pulled me close. "Where are you spending the night?"

"Right here with you, crazy wife."

That's when the nurse came in with Haruhi's medication.

"You can't have a dog in here! He needs to be removed immediately."

Ritsu gave her a death glare, and I leaned back to enjoy the fun.

"First, Kasa's a she, if you can't tell from the stupid pink sweater. Second, she's staying. Look how happy the patient is." Good thing he didn't call me his wife. "Third, if you don't shut up about her, I'll call Ootori Kyoya, and he'll fire you."

OK, that was harsh. The poor thing went pale and almost collapsed.

"Yes, Sir."

She scurred over, gave Haruhi her pills, and practically ran out of the room.

"Thanks." I smirked at him, "Now get in here with me."

.

Two hours ago, I would have thought it completely inappropriate for Ritsu to crawl into Shinobu's hospital bed, but knowing they're married…

"Takashi?" Her voice is slurred. The meds must be kicking in.

"Yes?"

"I'm going to sleep now."

"Good. Close your eyes. I'm right here watching over you."

She didn't last ten more seconds.

I turned when I heard snoring and realized it was the dog.

.

xXx

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Wednesday September 28:

Early, Early Morning, Girls' Patient Room, Tokyo Main:

What do I tell the police?

I still don't remember killing Daiju.

Will they believe that?

What if the media finds out? I assume my statement is public record.

What will Haruhi think? Will it scare her away from me?

"Uuudhhhhhh."

My head jerked up. She's starting to thrash in her sleep.

"Noooooo."

Instantly, I'm running my fingers through her hair. "It's alright. I'm here. You're safe."

"Stooop."

I know she doesn't mean me, but hearing that hurts a little. "Don't worry, Haruhi. I'm here. It's Takashi. You're safe."

At least she hasn't woken up Mother and Father, and I could still hear the dog snoring on the other side of the room.

"Please…"

Inappropriate or not, I carefully climbed in her bed and wrapped myself around her the best I could with the IV and bandages.

I pulled her head to my chest.

"Shhhh. You're safe. I'm here." She turned into me, and I ran my hand up and down her back. "Focus on my heartbeat. You're safe."

Her eye opened and focused on me. "Takashi?"

"Shhh. I'm here. I won't let anything happen to you."

"Thankssss," she mumbled as she fell back asleep.

.

xXx

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Author's Note:

Lots going on in this chapter…

Akito sure is cute when he goes all 'Ootori', isn't he?

Writing Shinobu in a panic was harder than I thought. She knows she drug Haruhi into this and is desperate to know she's alright. I think that came through both when they opened the room up and later when the girls were on their own. The question we'll see being played out is just how much guilt can Bu carry.

Writing the evening news and bouncing around locations, people, and newscasts was a challenge, but one I'm glad I took. I think it worked out showing the variation in the news being broadcast, the different people listening, and their reactions. Looks like Lighthouse realizes they might just have to give Bu a seat at the table if she wants it. Will she?

And Dylan's embezzlement is out, and he's taken away in cuffs. Not sure just how much more of that couple you'll see. Probably next to none. Just updates here and there. They were never pivotal. Just needed them so I could get the leak out. Hope none of you were too attached.

Didn't want to write yet another art gallery scene, so did it through Twitter. I think it worked.

After everything that's happened, a security shakeup is needed. I won't be going into it with great detail. Just enough to show how it's affecting the primaries. And yes, I got 'Ogata' from Hikaru No Go. I've been binging its fanfics lately. Wish more people wrote for it.

Haruhi's press statement was dry and boring. Just like I thought she'd want it. We also figured there's no way she'd do it without insisting on three things. First, that she and Bu were not trafficking victims and that those women and girls were the 'true' victims. Second, that Bu was in no way a part of it and that she was actually the hero. And third, that she and Bu are friends. Haruhi's a class act.

And Ritsu told Mori that he's married. Can you just picture what would happen if he told Hikaru? With Bu and Haruhi getting closer, we figured Mori and Ritsu would as well. Haven't decided if Mori will talk to Ritsu about killing Daiju. Still up in the air. Opinions?

Writing the scene between the girls after everyone was gone was almost as cathartic for me as it was for them. Getting to talk about what's bothering them and hearing the other say it's fine if you're still upset. There's a lot of healing that will need to happen and they'll be doing a chunk of it together.

And I couldn't resist bringing in the dog. Of course, Kasa needs to visit. And my dog (Grendel the Pitbull) snores like a chainsaw, so I thought it'd be cute if Kasa did too. Good thing I'm a heavy sleeper.

.

Next Chapter:

No one can sleep. So, what do they do?

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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.