Author's Note:
Welcome back to another Saturday night edition of the Ouran Soap Opera. I'm starting to speed up through some days to move us through the timeline faster.
Enjoy…
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xXx
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Date Posted: July 1, 2023
Trigger Warnings: Language, and not even that much
The Painful Truth - Chapter 24: California Dreaming
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Saturday, October 15:
Lunch, Yoshida Naoto (Dog Breeder) Apartment:
"Hope you're hungry. This smells delicious."
"Definitely," I smiled and took the takeout bag from her left hand. "Thanks for picking it up on your way, but I would have been more than happy to cook."
"You're already cooking dinner." She followed me into the kitchen as two of her bodyguards took a quick look around. I've gotten used to them being around, but I didn't think they'd want to go through the apartment. They know me by now.
They both came into the kitchen, and she introduced us. "This is Nagata-san. He's heading my detail for now. And this is Ebisu-san. I believe you've met him before." I nodded in acknowledgement, and pleasantries were exchanged.
By now I'd pulled all the food out of the bags and realized she'd bought some for them as well. Before I could ask if they would be joining us, she gave one container to Ebisu-san, "Here you go. Enjoy."
"I will. Thank you, Haruhi-sama." He headed for the door, addressing Nagata-san on his way out, "I'll be in the car at the front door."
"Naoto-san, if it's alright with you, would it be possible for Nagata-san to stay in the apartment while I'm here?" She's blushing and staring at the floor, embarrassed to ask. Didn't occur to me that one of them would be staying, but I assume her security is at a much higher level than before.
"He's more than welcome, Haruhi-san."
"Thank you, Yoshida-san," he said as she handed him his meal. "I'll stay out of the way. I need to be near the door, but since the kitchen is right next to the entrance, I can wait in here."
"Please do whatever you need to, Nagata-san. You're welcome anywhere in the apartment."
He ended up eating at the counter in the kitchen while Haruhi-san and I ate in my small dining area in the living room. Neither of us could talk him into eating with us.
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It's strange to have security in here with me. Before…I swallowed hard, forcing the noodles down, before they would have waited outside, but now…
"It's alright, Haruhi-san. Please don't worry about it. I understand. Your security is always welcome right along with you."
"Thanks. We're all still developing new procedures, and there's going to be a full security review, so who knows what's coming next."
"Well," he took a sip of his beer (he offered me one, but I stuck with tea), "I'm sure you'd rather talk about something else." I nodded. "Anything specific?"
"Read any good books lately?"
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I listened to them discuss books, movies, puppies, and her classes while I kept an eye on the street below and an ear out for noises in the stairwell.
I brought three cars and seven guards plus me. The look she gave me was priceless, leaving no doubt she felt it was overkill. We got noodles for everyone when we picked up for their lunch. She's getting better at using her Morinozuka credit card. I remember the first time she used it. Takashi-sama took her to the bookstore and made her spend almost 30,000 yen and then pay for lunch. Things were a lot simpler then.
I deployed a car and three guards to the back entrance of the apartment building. Another car and two guards are in the parking garage under the building, and her SUV is out front with Ebisu and another guard. We aren't expecting any issues but will never not be prepared again.
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Mid-Afternoon…
"Checkmate."
"Damn," I fell back in my seat as she grinned at me over the chessboard. "I'd like to think I'm rusty, but you're really good."
"Nope, you're rusty. It's been a while since I've played."
We reset the pieces, and I asked what she wanted to do next.
"It's silly."
I watched her stroll over to the main window and look out at the street. It's not a great view. My parents wanted me to keep living at their home and breeding facility, but I wanted my own place. This was the best I could afford and still be close enough to the puppies for an emergency.
"I'm sure it's not."
"I want to go for a walk."
"That's no problem…"
"But it is. I want to go for a walk and have no one recognize me. To walk again through the crowds and no one give me a second glance." That's a sad smile. She plopped down in a chair and looked up at me with those huge eyes, "I miss it a lot."
There's got to be something we can do.
Then it hit me. "Be right back."
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Naoto-san disappeared back towards the bedroom in a flash. What could he be up to?
My days of walking around anonymously are long gone. First Kaoru's modeling, then Petto Chinmi, then On Okuri, and now with the kidnapping, I'm all over all the news. Everyone recognizes me.
I didn't hear him come back in the room. "What about this?" He held up a hat, jacket, and a pair of sweatpants. "You go as my little brother."
"What?"
"Piece of cake. We'll roll the pant legs or cut them if we have to. The jacket's too small for me. No idea why I still have it. And the hat will cover your hair. Add a mask and say it's for allergies and a pair of sunglasses, and no one will know it's you."
"I'm not sure…" But it's familiar. Ritsu and I went to the planetarium with his fellas with me dressed as a boy. And I passed for one for over a year at Ouran.
"Won't know until you try." He dumped all the clothes in my lap, "Change in the bathroom. I'll find a mask and sunglasses."
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Half an hour later…
"I can't believe it worked," she laughed as we came back into the apartment and dumped our loot out on the coffee table. We did a quick trial run down to the convenience store and bought a bunch of junk food for a movie. Wasn't sure it would work with five security guards pacing us, but it seemed to.
"Not sure it would if you were with your other friends. They're just as recognizable as you."
"True. But maybe if I want to go somewhere alone…"
"It's something we can consider, Haruhi-sama. We can discuss it at your security meeting tomorrow."
"Thanks, Nagata-san." She tossed him a candy bar. "You sure you don't want to watch the movie with us?"
"I'll wait in the kitchen. Watching the movie would be a distraction." And he disappeared through the door.
We chose a murder mystery and curled up on the couch.
Fifteen minutes later, she was asleep.
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xXx
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Late Afternoon, Ootori Private Jet, Headed for California:
"Have you decided on your classes, Kyoya?"
I looked up over my laptop at Cho. I didn't mind bringing her along, but I have so much to do, I hadn't planned on much talking. "Political Communication, Japanese Politics, Corporate Finance, Corporate Sustainability Strategies, and International Health Policies."
"Oh, looks like you won't be in any of my classes. I'm taking Portfolio Management, Accounting, Real Estate Management, Technical Writing, and Nutrition. Mori and Honey-kun are taking Portfolio Management with me."
"Real estate management?"
"Well," she reached up and started playing with her hair, "since Honey-kun and I are getting married, I thought I should know about the family business."
"Smart choice."
"Do you know what day your Political Communication is?"
"Monday, Wednesday, 2pm."
"Tamaki's in that class."
I'm not sure if that's a positive thing. We're just starting to repair our friendship.
"What about your Japanese Politics?"
"Monday, Wednesday, 1pm."
"Mori's in that one. Looks like you'll have study partners."
Mori-senpai? Or do I still call him Morinozuka-senpai? We haven't really spoken since Ranka's death. At least not anything of substance. I'm sure we'll end up sitting as far as possible from each other.
"Honey-kun took Corporate Finance last semester if you have any questions about that."
"I'll keep that in mind." And I'm sure I won't be discussing it with him.
Haruhi might have decided to move past our history, but I'm not sure the rest of them have. I'll keep my distance. It's the best thing to do.
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xXx
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Dinner, Yoshida Naoto (Dog Breeder) Apartment:
Naoto-kun met me at the door, "Shh. She fell asleep." I saw her all tucked in on his sofa, her breath blowing her bangs. Poor kid.
We headed for the kitchen where I knew Nagata-san was stationed. "Nagata-san."
"Naka-san," he nodded back. "Good to see you again."
"Good to see you, too. How's the new assignment?" I don't see PPD guards very often since I transferred off Haruhi-sama's detail when I started dating Naoto-kun, but everyone knows he's heading Haruhi-sama's PPD until a new head is named.
"Intense."
Couldn't help but chuckle, "I bet." They have me as a night guard for the estate. Boring. But I like it that way.
I turned to my boyfriend, "Can I help with dinner?"
"Sure. How about you chop the vegetables."
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As I watched them chop and prepare the steaks, I realized this was the first time I'd seen them together. They make a good couple. Quite a few of the more traditional security officers do not approve of 'alternate lifestyles', but they don't bother me. What do I care? Their relationship in no way impacts my life.
"Are you sure we can't cook for you and your team, Nagata-san?"
"Thank you, but no. There are eight of us and I don't want to impose." He doesn't live as tight as Haruhi-sama did, but I'm still not sure he could afford steaks for the team. Besides, we'd never request that of him. Our meals are our responsibility. "We ordered from the deli down the street that you recommended. Mine should be here soon."
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xXx
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Dinner, Ootori Private Jet, Headed for California:
Phone call between Keiko and Cho:
Keiko: "When do you think you'll get here?"
Cho: "Late tonight, so we can meet up tomorrow for breakfast."
Keiko: "And how's Haruhi doing?"
Cho: "Did you see the pictures from the show last night? The afterparty?"
Keiko: "Yes." They didn't really try to cover the long scar on her face. "Were they having problems with her makeup? That scar was easy to see."
Cho: "I think it wore off as the night went on. It was covered pretty well for the first red carpet."
Keiko: "Yeah, but wouldn't Kaoru's team use makeup that would stay? What kind of cheep crap were they using?"
Cho: "I think Haruhi kept touching it and it wore off. It was kinda patchy by the end of the after party."
Keiko: "Oh."
Cho: "But I wasn't talking about the scar. Did you see the pics of her and Mori? They're so cute together. Sitting on the stage and eating shrimp puffs or whatever."
Keiko: "Yeah, they're made for each other. It's about damn time, too."
Cho: "No kidding. I think we're all a little nervous that she backs off after what happened, but they looked good last night."
Keiko: "Well, last night was public. How's she really doing after all that? How's her hand."
Cho: "She said she's started writing again, but it's harder than she thought. I don't think she's sleeping either. She nods off but jerks awake like she's terrified."
Keiko: "What about Shinobu?"
Cho: "She's tough as nails. Ritsu's probably the only one that knows what she's really going through."
Keiko: "And they're married?"
Cho: "I know! Isn't that amazing! Two engagements and one marriage. I can't wait for Honey-kun to propose. Love is all over the place here." I paused for a beat, "What about you?"
Keiko: "No prospects."
Cho: "You're kidding."
Keiko: "Nope. I get asked out, but I'm not interested. No idea what I'm looking for but can't get serious anyway. My father's been talking about an arranged marriage more and more."
Cho: I peeked over my shoulder. Kyoya's got his headphones on and is typing away. I still lowered my voice, "What about Kyoya? I'm sure your father would approve. I thought the two of you were getting closer."
Keiko: "I thought we were too, but with classes and general craziness, it's hard to tell. Plus, he's moving back to Tokyo, so I won't see him anymore."
Cho: "But there's no way your father would say no to a marriage to the head of the Ootori family."
Keiko: "No, but I get the impression that Kyoya's not interested in anything serious. He's been playing the field."
Cho: "Do tell…"
Keiko: "Caught him coming out of one of my dormmate's rooms early one morning after a hookup. Said they were just having fun."
Cho: "Maybe you could have some fun with him before he leaves."
Keiko: "Nomura!"
Cho: "What? I bet he's great in bed."
…
Obviously, she has no idea I can hear her. I turned off the podcast so I could listen. I may not be a dick like Yoshio, but I'm not above a little eavesdropping.
And I am great in bed.
…
Keiko: "He does look like he would know what he's doing, but I want something more than just one night." Doesn't stop me from fantasizing though.
Cho: "Whatever." Honey-kun and I aren't crossing that line, so I really don't have anything to compare. "Are there any good dance clubs there?"
Keiko: "You want to go dancing?"
Cho: "Definitely. We can go out on the town. I want to see what's different in America. Maybe we can drag Kyoya along and the two of you can get closer."
Keiko: "Did you even bring anything to wear to a club?"
Cho: "No, but I really want to go shopping too while I'm there. Pleeeeeease…"
Keiko: I can't take that begging squeal of hers. "Fine. I still have classes, but we can shop and there is a club I've been wanting to try."
Cho: "Great. I'll talk Kyoya into it." I peeked at him again. Still has his earphones on. "What else can we do?"
Keiko: "You've got to try this pizza place…"
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Clubbing?
She wants me to go clubbing with them.
I listened to them talk about shopping, classes, and random other things for another half an hour before she hung up and came over to sit across from me.
"You aren't going to be busy every minute of every day while we're there, are you?"
"I'll be meeting with the president of the medical school, interviewing candidates for the remote office, taking care of some administrative issues with the school, and various other things."
"So, no. All that can't possibly keep you busy every minute for the next two and a half days."
"I suppose not."
"Great. Then you're coming with us to this pizza place Keiko talked about, and we're definitely going out dancing Monday night."
Then she sat there and pouted at me.
"I've had the pizza. It's good, but don't wait for my schedule."
"And dancing?"
"Monday isn't really the best night…"
"Yeah, but think about it. This is your last chance to be anonymous at a club. Everyone in Japan knows who you are, but not there. You can come out and have fun without it being on the front page of the gossip section."
It's not a terrible idea. I for sure can't go out and 'party' like a college student in Tokyo. Who knows what could happen to the stock prices.
"Besides, who knows when you'll get to see Keiko again. You need to take advantage of this trip while you can."
"I suppose you have a point."
I winced at her squeal. "Yeah! Then it's settled. I'll text Keiko."
Guess I know what I'm doing Monday night.
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xXx
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Dinner, Yoshida Naoto (Dog Breeder) Apartment:
They'd just left to set the table and wake Haruhi-sama up when her scream pierced the silence.
I drew my weapon and sprinted for the door.
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"Haruhi! It's OK. Take a deep breath," Naoto-kun called out, shaking her shoulder. He'd tried to be gentle waking her up.
But it wasn't him she was scared of.
"Keep him away!" she yelled, her finger trembling as she pointed at me. I'd been coming back down the hallway from the bathroom, and I guess she couldn't tell it was me. "NO!"
Nagata-san skidded to a halt by her side, his weapon drawn, but he pointed it down as soon as he saw it was me, the tension in his face quickly replaced by concern.
"It's Nobuo-san, Haruhi-sama. You're safe," he spoke softly, holstering his gun.
"But… I thought…" Her lips trembled, then she burst into tears.
Nagata-san reported in the radio for the rest of his team to stand down. "False alarm. Back to your stations."
The three of us stood there like fucking idiots and watched her cry.
.
Not him.
He doesn't have a knife.
It's Nobuo-san.
It's safe.
In…
Out…
In…
Out…
Fabric brushed my arm, and I grabbed the handkerchief someone offered. I mopped my face but didn't look up.
In…
Out…
In…
Out…
I heard the guys talking quietly.
"The hallway's dark. She must not have realized it's me."
"What can we do? Should we call someone?"
"Has she been like this since it happened?"
Then Nagata-san took charge, "Let's give her a few minutes. Unfortunately, this isn't the first panic attack I've witnessed."
"Shit."
"I'll get a wet cloth," and I heard footsteps leaving.
In…
Out…
I thought it was him. I thought for sure he'd come back with his knife to finish. I thought he was going to kill me.
"Haruhi-sama?"
I shook my head and curled up tighter. I can't look them in the eyes.
Footsteps coming back and a cold, wet cloth was draped around my neck. "Deep breaths. You're safe."
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We tried not to crowd her, but the room isn't that big. I sat down at the dining table wanting to put as much distance as possible between us but still letting her know where I was. I hadn't seen her in months and had no idea she was reacting like this. Rumors around the estate didn't indicate anything like this.
Naoto-kun took a seat on the floor in front of her while Nagata-san sat on the sofa next to her. Guess he's helped her through one of these before.
The sobs were tapering off leaving just sniffles. He tried again for her attention, "Haruhi-sama?"
She kept her face in the handkerchief, "I'm sorry for all this."
"No need to apologize. We understand."
"Yeah, Haruhi-san. You're in a strange place and were disoriented from your nap. No worries."
She took several deep breaths then raised her head, "Thanks. I'm sorry."
"I'm sorry I scared you," I said then cringed at the way she jumped at my voice. Her eyes quickly scanned the room before finding me at the table. "Sorry." I tried to give her an understanding grin. Not sure it worked.
Nagata-san handed her a bottle of water. "Small sips." She nodded and took a couple.
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A few minutes later, Haruhi-sama'd disappeared into their bathroom to wash her face. Once the door shut, I knew I'd get questions from them.
"The hallway isn't that dark. She must have still been mostly asleep."
"She looked peaceful when I went to wake her up."
"How many panic attacks is she having?"
"Is she getting any help?"
"Are you sure we shouldn't call anyone?"
"Should we skip dinner, and you take her home?"
I held up a hand to stop them. "This is at least the fourth I've witnessed. Each is different, some milder. I can't comment on her medical details, but she does have professional help. No, we don't need to call anyone. It would only embarrass her more."
"And I'm hungry, so I don't want to skip dinner."
We all turned to see her headed for the table. She'd not only washed her face, but clearly dunked her head under the faucet.
"I feel better now. I'm sorry about that."
"No apologies necessary."
"Just glad you're hungry."
"I am." She pulled out a chair and sat. "The steaks smell amazing."
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I tried to forget it happened and enjoy dinner.
It would have been easier if they weren't all looking at me like I'm crazy.
Am I? Am I going insane?
I'm not sleeping well. The nightmares are getting worse.
I want to tell them to relax. That I'm not going to freak out again. But I don't think that'd have the result I want.
"Tell me something funny the puppies have done recently."
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xXx
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Late Evening, Group Chat [Emoji]:
Hikaru: bored…what's everyone up to?
Ritsu: watching stupid movie with the wife
Shinobu: You picked it, asshole
Ritsu: Doesn't mean it's not stupid
Yuki: With Akito-kun, Tamaki, Renge at gallery watching play. Intermission just started
Shinobu: Any good?
Yuki: I'm enjoying it
Cho: Still on the plane. Another couple hours
Honey: Cho-chan! I miss you!
Cho: Miss you too!
Hikaru: when are you proposing?
Honey: it's a surprise [diamond ring]
Cho: Can't wait.
Kaoru: home studio designing spring line
Cho: pastels? You need more pink
Kaoru: maybe…
Chika: At dojo with Mitsukuni/Takashi/Satoshi Can't really talk
Haruhi: studying…trying to write
Renge: don't overdo. I'll still take notes for you
Hikaru: Me too
Kaoru: not sure our notes are worth anything Hika
Renge: Play going so well. There's a huge show on thurs. you'll all have to come
Shinobu: artist?
Renge: amazing photographer we found in LA. Edgy. Perfect for a young crowd
Hikaru: we'll be there
Cho: I'll be back. Count Honey-kun and me in.
Yuki: Akito-kun and I will be too
Karou: [thumbs up]
Haruhi: red carpet?
Tamaki: definitely. Huge debut for this artist. Want to give him a big splash
Shinobu: can Ritsu and I come in the back?
Tamaki: of course
Haruhi: what about me?
Tamaki: You can too, my darling friend.
Kaoru: you should walk the carpet. The more you let them see you now the quicker they'll start leaving you alone
Haruhi: you really think they'll ever leave me alone?
Karou: talk to your agent. See what he thinks. You should too, Shinobu
Shinobu: Fuck
Karou: it's why you hired him
Haruhi: Fine. But Takashi's escorting me if I do it
Mori: my pleasure
Chika: being called back to mat. 4 of us are done.
Hikaru: [hand waving]
Yuki: There's the bell. Back to the play. Phone going silent
Cho: Bye!
Karou: back to the drawing board…
Haruhi: Good night
Shinobu: [hand waving]
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xXx
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Sunday, October 16:
Brunch, Dining Room, Morinozuka Estate:
"This was just delivered for you, Haruhi-sama. Security cleared it."
Their butler set the huge box wrapped in gold paper at the seat next to me. The seat Takashi sits in when he's here. He wanted a workout this morning, so I won't see him until later.
I saw the navy-blue card edged in gold. "Hitachiin." Lifting the lid I saw dozens of fashion magazines, newspapers, flyers, and photos of billboards and other ads. "It's the 'Every Woman' ads."
How had I managed to forget?
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Akira and I shared a glance. We'd gotten a briefing yesterday about the ads. Magazines, newspapers, billboards, internet, taxies, subways. But not busses. Petto Chinmi advertises there.
She dropped the lid back on and looked over at us, "Do your PR people need these?"
"I'm sure they got the same box."
She took a deep breath and blew it out. "I'm not sure why Kaoru insists on sending me copies. I put on a suit and smiled. I don't need copies." Then she choaked back a sob, "Dad would have loved opening this box."
Should we make a bigger deal of it? I assumed she didn't want us to since we're guardians and not parents. Plus, she doesn't want the attention.
"I'll pick a few of my favorite and show Mom and Dad."
She leafed through the photos and practically growled, "I'm on the side of a building again."
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xXx
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Late Morning, Ootori Apartment, Stanford, CA:
The apartment looks strange with all my personal things packed. Mostly photos and books. I had pictures of everyone from the host club and some of the more memorable cosplays on the walls.
This was my private sanctuary while I was here. I didn't entertain. I didn't have anyone over to study. I didn't bring girls here. My US personal assistant, Eric, and my security and maids were the only people to see the inside of this place.
I did a lot of soul searching here. I like to think I shed the last of Yoshio here. The last of his influences. The last of his mindset. The last of his demands.
Ootori Kyoya found himself here. Shit, that sounds ridiculous. But true.
I decided I was going to be a better man, a better person here. I'll never have her back, but I decided I'd become someone Haru could love. Someone she could want to spend her life with. Because if she could want me, someone else as wonderful as her could want me too.
Not that I'll ever find that person, but I will be a better husband to my selected wife. I'll be a good father. My children will not celebrate my death.
Being a good father and a successful businessman are not mutually exclusive. It took me too long to realize that.
"Ootori-sama?"
I looked up from my coffee to find Eric hovering in the doorway. "Come in. Sit. Help yourself to coffee."
He did. Takes it with way too much cream.
"Thank you for packing up the apartment."
"No problem. All the crates and boxes are staged at the airport to be loaded on your plane for the return trip."
"And the Black Onion Squad officers returning are ready as well."
"Yes. Their belongings are with yours."
I nodded and finished my coffee. He offered to pour me another cup, but I shook my head. I'm actually awake on my own now because of jetlag and don't want to be jittery.
"Is everything taken care of at the university?"
"Yes. You've been withdrawn from all your classes. Records will indicate you withdrew for personal reasons. No black marks. Same for all guards that were taking classes."
"Excellent." I crossed a couple things off my list. "Then there's no reason for me to go to the campus."
"None."
"Well," I leaned back and looked him up and down, "that just leaves you."
.
Me? What about me?
He hasn't said anything about me moving to Japan, so I assumed I'm losing my job.
"I'll be hiring several positions for the US office, and I'm offering you the position of US/Japan Liaison. You'll work directly with the CEO and division heads to keep me informed and make sure what's being done here supports our interests in Japan."
Damn…
"You'll be busy at first, but I anticipate the hours not being more than your current position."
"Twenty to thirty a week?"
"Yes. Your benefit package won't change except to add an additional week of vacation."
Three weeks of vacation? And I've never seen better health care insurance.
"You'll be able to continue your education with these hours and schedule around your classes."
I wasn't sure he remembered. I'm working on an MBA specializing in Risk Management and Insurance. I swallowed hard and cleared my throat, "Thank you, Ootori-sama. I'm very interested."
"Excellent. I'm meeting with the headhunter and my lawyer this afternoon, and we'll finalize your contract then. I'll also want your input in our new hires."
"I'm honored by your confidence in me."
"You've earned it."
.
xXx
.
Afternoon, Keiko's Dorm, Stanford, CA:
"It's so small."
I hid my smirk. I'm the one that wanted the college experience and decided to live in the dorms. I know Father could have gotten me out of it, but it's been a lot of fun.
"Where do you keep all your clothes?"
"In the closet…" I pointed and Cho rolled the door aside.
"Where are the rest?"
"That's it."
She turned and stared, "You're kidding. There can't be more than twenty pairs of shoes here."
"It's not like I have a lot of places to wear things. Class, study, meals. That's about it."
"Well," she flopped down next to me on my bed, "I couldn't do it. And this bed," she bounced a couple of times, "it's so small. Where am I going to sleep?"
"What?"
"I know I spent last night at Kyoya's apartment, but I wanted to stay here with you the rest of the time. I really miss you."
"We'll get you a blowup."
"A what?"
After I explained the concept and she called to have her things delivered, we headed out to shop.
.
xXx
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Evening, Security Offices, Morinozuka Estate:
"Thank you for coming, Haruhi-sama."
"Of course, Oshiro-san. Anything to help security."
With everything that's happened and her increased profile, Akira-sama, Nagata, and I decided to start a weekly security meeting. We'd had meetings before, but they were more ad hoc. "This will be a standard, weekly meeting from now on. The time on Sunday will be adjusted as needed based on your schedule."
"I usually don't have a lot planned for Sundays, just getting ready for the next week, so it shouldn't be a problem."
"Pardon me for being late."
"Takashi? I didn't know you were going to be here."
"I want to help your security in any way possible."
She sighed slightly, "Fine."
With the arrival of Takashi-sama, everyone is here, and I introduced Akira-sama, Takashi-sama, Haruhi-sama, and Nagata to Ogata-san. "Ogata-san is here to observe our meeting in conjunction with his security review."
We all sat down, and I pulled out my agenda. Akira-sama broke in before I started, "I'm not sure I'll be needed every week, but I wanted to be here for the first meeting."
"I'll copy you on the agenda each week, and you can determine if your presence is necessary." I looked around the table, and everyone was ready. "Now, first is the upcoming trip to Seoul. Haruhi-sama, can you give us an overview?"
"We'll leave Tuesday, November 1, taking the Haninozuka jet to Seoul. The purpose is to be in court for the opening arguments of the first criminal trial regarding my pet food factory. Tanaki-san, my Assistant Executive Director, and two other staff members are going with."
"Why the Haninozuka jet?"
"Chika's got a board meeting in Seoul on the second. Since he was flying anyway, it made sense to join him rather than paying for commercial airfare." She flipped a few pages in her notebook, "The trial starts the second. I was planning on returning that evening, but this is a perfect opportunity to tour my new factory."
Takashi-sama's head jerked toward her, staring at her.
"So, I'll tour on the third. My lawyer will tour with me. The rest of my staff will return with Chika the evening of the second, and I'll fly commercial back after our tour."
"You can't fly commercial."
Her eyes flashed and her jaw set. "That's up to Nagata-san and Oshiro-san." She turned to Nagata-san, "Will it be a problem?"
I'll give him credit. He didn't wilt under Takashi-sama's glare.
"I'll do some research, but it should be fine. We'll be taking along your standard team. That means six on the plane with you."
"Good. Let me know what you need from me. I'll make sure my assistant copies you on all the arrangements."
"Will you be staying in the Morinozuka apartment?"
She turned to Akira-sama, "You have an apartment in Seoul?"
"Yes. I use it for business several times a year. It has five bedrooms, so there's enough space for you and your staff."
"We've already made hotel reservations, and I'm not sure Petto Chinmi can afford…"
"We wouldn't charge you, Haruhi-chan. You're family."
.
Family.
It sounds so strange, but so good.
Can I let them do this?
"I haven't been informed, but I'm sure Yasuchika will be staying there while he's at his board meeting. That's why we bought it, for family members to use when they go over for business."
I could feel Takashi practically vibrating next to me, wanting to tell me to do it. Why is he even here? I thought we fixed this in St. Louis.
"Alright. Thank you, Akira-ojisan. I appreciate it."
"I'll contact the property manager and have it ready for you."
Oshiro-san cleared his throat to bring our attention back to him. "If we're done discussing Seoul, we can move on." I nodded, and he continued, "Haruhi-sama, I know you weren't told about these before, and it caused problems." He gestured to his assistant, and she handed each of us a piece of paper. "Another letter has come in from that parent's group."
I skimmed it quickly…
…disgusting girl…
…need to keep quiet about private things…
…give interview retracting everything you've said…
…you won't like the consequences if you make us angry…
"As you can see, it's more of the same threats."
"Gentlemen, I really must say that after dealing with human traffickers, I find this to be almost a joke."
.
How can she say that?
How can she not take these threats seriously? It's her life they are talking about. Threatening.
Then I studied her eyes. Those beautifully expressive eyes I've loved for years. There's fear there. Fear and avoidance. She's playing it off. A quick glance and I knew Father sees it too.
"Any new leads?"
"No, Akira-sama. It was delivered in the same manner as the others. No prints. We sent a copy to the FBI but aren't expecting a change in their assessment."
"This will be something my team looks into," Ogata-san said, staring at the paper. "Fresh eyes will help."
"Thank you."
"Do you need anything from me, Oshiro-san?"
"No, thank you, Haruhi-sama. We just wanted to keep you informed."
"And I appreciate it."
She pushed the paper across the table back to him. "What's next?"
We discussed her week. Other than the gallery opening we're all going to on Thursday, there was nothing but her usual schedule.
"If we're done, I have something I'd like to bring up." Oshiro-san gestured for her to continue. "Yesterday, Naoto-san and I took a walk in his neighborhood."
"You what?" I couldn't help it. It just popped out.
"Naoto-san and I took a walk down to the convenience store and back. But the best part was no one recognized me. I wore a disguise!"
Nagata described what she wore and how security went with them without drawing attention to her. "It worked well but wouldn't if she was with members of the group. They're all too recognizable."
"But think," she turned to Father with a huge smile, "if I dressed as a boy with a wig or glasses or a mask or whatever, I could go to the bookstore. I could go out again alone."
"Alone?" That got me another glare.
"Alone with security, obviously."
.
I smiled at her. She only wants to go out and not be mobbed. How can I deny her that?
"I don't see why that couldn't be tested."
"Thank you, Akira-ojisan. Thank you." She's practically bouncing in her seat. "I'll talk to Hikaru about the disguise. He'll help me. It will be perfect. No one will ever recognize me, and I'll be able to go out again."
Nagata and Oshiro-san discussed some of the finer points but ended the meeting before they got too technical.
.
I waited until we were back in the main part of the house. I didn't want to talk to him about this where others could hear.
I grabbed his arm and pulled him into the soundproof room.
"Takashi, you have to stop. Either you let security do their job, or you become my security. But I'll remind you, there's a rule against security dating their primaries."
"I just want you safe."
"And if you think I don't want to be safe, you don't know me at all."
He reached out and took my face in his hands, "I know you want to be safe. But I also know you don't know about security and what you should and should not do."
I stepped back, and his arms fell to his side. "That's what Nagata and Oshiro-san are for. That's what Ogata-san is doing here." I crossed my arms in front of my chest, "I repeat, let security do their job or this will not work."
.
"Haruhi," I stepped forward to touch her, but she stepped back again. "Haruhi, if I had to choose between knowing you are safe and dating you with the chance you'll be taken from me again, I'd choose to know you are safe."
"Then you're an idiot," and she turned and headed for the door.
I lunged and grabbed her arm, "Wait. Please. Don't leave."
She spun and started pounding on my chest, "Idiot! Life is full of risks. No one is completely safe." I flinched as the tears started. "Don't you dare stand there and say you'd rather we break up and you take over my security. Don't you dare."
"But…"
"I mean it, Takashi. Do you really think I'm that much safer with one more person around me? Will one more person make that much of a difference?" She grabbed my arms and stared at me. I watched as two tears rolled down her cheeks. "If one more person will make me safe, then add another to my team, but don't leave me."
Her voice dropped to a whisper, "Don't you dare leave me."
What am I doing? I've loved this girl for years, and I'm turning her away. Telling her being with her isn't the most important thing in my life when it is. When it most definitely is.
Then it hit me. Hit me right between the eyes and drove me to my knees. I reached out and wrapped my arms around her. We're practically face to face.
"I'm sorry. I really am an idiot."
I held her tight, her head on my shoulder, and waited.
And waited.
"Don't do that again."
"I won't."
"I mean it, Takashi. We're both passionate people, so arguments are inevitable, but we can't keep having the same one."
"I won't. I won't come to your security meetings anymore."
She pulled back and looked into my eyes. "You mean it?"
"Yes."
"Thank you."
I slowly leaned forward and touched my lips to hers.
.
xXx
.
Evening, Keiko's Dorm, Stanford, CA:
"What were you thinking, buying all that stuff?"
"We had to get something to wear tomorrow night at the club."
"Nomura," I huffed and pulled a soda out of my minifridge, "I'm not going to change outfits every hour. I only needed one dress, not five."
"But now you have choices."
"Whatever."
She bought so much stuff we had to send most of it to Kyoya's apartment.
"Hand me that orange chicken."
I passed her the carton. After all that crazy shopping, we decided to order in and hang out in sweats. Wasn't hard to convince her after I told her that's what American college kids do. May not be true, but it worked. And she just had to try American Chinese food.
"So, give me the scoop on the marriage contract. I'm dying here."
"I know, but hearing it all in person will be so much better…"
.
For the next hour I told her all about the negotiations, our get-a-way, and how I used chocolate frosting and my mother's bad timing to kickstart the whole thing.
"So, when's he going to propose?"
"No idea. He wants it to be a complete surprise." Not sure I like that, but I'll let him do it his way. And if he takes too long, I'll propose to him.
"What about you? Dating anyone?"
"Like I told you on the phone, no."
"I was hoping you were kidding."
"I'm not. Father's talking more and more about a contract."
"Doesn't mean you can't have fun."
"I'm going dancing with you tomorrow, aren't I?"
"Yeah, but you'll have to go back to his place if I'm staying here."
"Nomura!" and she hit me on the forehead with a dumpling.
"Just kidding," I wiped the sauce off and pouted. "Damn."
She was quiet for a bit, and my mind wandered. She and Kyoya would be perfect for each other. And she's learning enough about the business world to not be stuck just making babies.
"Hey," she snapped her fingers, "how about we call Abby and see if she wants to join us at the club?"
"Great idea. She can bring her girlfriend."
.
xXx
.
Monday, October 17:
Morning, Ootori Conglomeration CA Offices:
Holy shit, he's handsome!
So tall and mysterious.
"And this is my assistant, Caroline. She'll be taking notes and tracking the paperwork."
I snapped out of my daydream when my boss introduced me. Mr. Ootori's American assistant brought coffee and I set up my workstation. I didn't come to the meeting yesterday. Too bad.
.
I'd come in early to get things situated. Good thing I did. The headhunter didn't tell us he was bringing his assistant, so I put her at my workstation and quickly set up another.
This is most definitely the most people we've ever had in our offices. Between the headhunter and his staff, the HR firm contracted by us, lawyers, security, and Ootori-sama and me, there's over twenty-five and that's before the candidates get here.
I'll be doing double duty as his assistant and the liaison until the new CEO hires his own assistant. That job description's been posted, and interviews start Thursday.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the goal of today is to hire the following positions for the Ootori Conglomeration's American Offices: CEO, Marketing Director, PR Director, Director of Acquisitions, and Director of Risk Assessment.
"We'll start with the CEO. Once they're selected, they'll stay for the rest of the interviews and their input will be taken into consideration."
.
Once I decided to not return to California and hired the headhunting agency, I knew I only wanted to be here for one round of interviews. That's why I spent so much time on Zoom the last two weeks weeding out candidates to get to the very few I felt could do the job. Today is about gut instinct and how I think they'll gel as a team.
"Bring in our first candidate please."
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Marketing Class, Stanford, CA:
"There's the bell. Class dismissed. See you Wednesday."
It's so different than my classes at Todi. And the English. I knew mine wasn't that strong after our trip for the Olympics, but I didn't understand about a third of what the instructor said.
"What'd you think?"
"I think my English isn't as good as I thought it was."
"I know. It's been practically a trial by fire since I got here, but the more you force yourself to do it, the faster it happens."
"Yeah, you're practically fluent."
"I watch a lot of TV with Japanese subtitles. It helps."
"Who's your friend, Keiko?"
I stared over her shoulder at the guy that just joined us. Tall. As tall as Mori but with broader shoulders. Blond hair cut short, blue eyes.
She smiled up at him, "Hi Josh. This is Nomura. She's visiting from Tokyo and wanted to see one of my classes. Nomura, this is Josh. We're partners for a marketing project that's due soon."
He held out his hand, "Nice to meet you." We shook and he smiled, (nice dimples), "Maybe you could talk your friend into going out with me."
My eyes flicked to her, and she playfully smacked him on the arm, "I've told you, I'm too busy with classes to date anyone."
"Yeah, well maybe after this project…"
Keiko just laughed, as we all headed out of the classroom and down the hall. "We're headed for lunch. I know you have another class, so I'll see you on Wednesday."
"See you then," and he walked off the opposite way we headed.
I turned to her and raised an eyebrow. "Now don't get started on him. I'm really not interested. He's been asking since we met. I think he's just fascinated because I'm foreign. He'll get over it. Besides," she laughed, "it's kinda cute."
"Whatever."
.
xXx
.
Lunch, Student Hangout, Stanford, CA:
"Oooo, it smells so good."
"I know. It's the best pizza in town. We're lucky we got here early enough for a table. They get a crazy lunch rush."
"Keiko! Haven't seen you in three whole days. Have you finally given up on finding sushi and decided pizza is the far superior food?"
"Hi, John." My favorite waiter stood at our table, huge smile and ready menus. "I keep trying, but there's no good sushi in Stanford. But even if I did find some, I'm not sure it'd beat this place."
Nomura's sitting across from me, her mouth open slightly. I never flirted with anyone like this in Japan. I was known. I had a family reputation to uphold. Here I'm anonymous.
"And who's this lovely lady?"
"This is Nomura. She's visiting from Japan, and I had to bring her here."
They exchanged as few pleasantries while I watched. He's flirting just as hard with her as me. Took me a while to realize it's what waiters do here. Better tips.
"Need a menu?"
"Nope. Hangover special."
"You got it."
When he left, Nomura couldn't take in any longer. "Does everyone flirt like that with you? How are you not going out with a different one every night?"
"I think the heavy flirting is an American thing. John does it for the tips. I've been here at closing a couple of times and seen his girlfriend pick him up."
"Oh." Then she leaned forward and asked, "What's the hangover special?"
.
xXx
.
After Classes, Therapist's Office:
"I like your ring." I saw it last week but didn't have the opportunity to mention it. Last week was heavy.
"Thanks. Takashi got it for me. In fact," she reached into her purse and pulled out a keychain and her phone, "they all got me some kind of fidget thing." She showed me the phone case and a couple of others. "I like the ring best."
"Are they helping?" I've always noticed her fidgeting, but it's been so much worse since the kidnapping. I was going to recommend something, but her friends beat me to it.
"I guess," she sighed. "I don't think I'm doing it any less, but just now with the ring. I haven't had to send anything back to Kaoru since I got it because I picked the seam loose."
"Good. The purpose isn't to stop the picking, but just make it less destructive. It may be a habit you never break, and that's ok."
I checked my notes from last week. "Are you sleeping any better?" It doesn't look like she is.
"Not really. Wednesday," she blushed, "I fell asleep on the sofa in Takashi's apartment. He let me sleep through the night there. He held me. I didn't have nightmares."
"But you have them otherwise?"
"Yes."
.
But I'm not telling her about freaking out at Naoto-san's apartment. If talking about it helped, I would've stopped having nightmares about the car accident within a week or so rather than them going on for months and months.
I still sometimes have them.
But now they're all mixed together. The knife guy laughing about how he killed Dad and I was next. Waking up in the hospital after the accident and seeing those traffickers there.
"Have you considered something to help you sleep?"
"I've tried one a couple of times. They always make me feel fuzzy the next day."
"They may not all make you feel that way. Perhaps you could discuss it with your doctor."
"I might if it gets bad enough."
Fortunately, she changed the subject. "How was the fashion show?"
.
xXx
.
Night, Dance Club, San Francisco, CA:
I'm sitting here in the VIP section of what is supposed to be one of the hottest dance clubs in San Francisco. They stamped my hand to indicate my age. How undignified.
Keiko surprised me when she said Abby was coming…and bringing her girlfriend. I wonder if Johnathan knows. I thought for sure he brought her along for that board meeting to try to put us together.
Anyway, Abby and Kristin are out on the dance floor and really should be arrested. They're all over each other. I think the American, or maybe it's just male, fascination with two women together is what's keeping them from being bounced.
"Kyoya?" My head jerked, and I focused on Keiko's hand snapping in front of my face. "Wanna dance?"
Do I? I really don't even want to be here. But this will be my last chance to be at a dance club and not be recognized. "Sure." I didn't miss Cho's smirk as we headed to the floor.
.
Now if I can just get them together. They're perfect for each other. What a dreamy power couple.
"Excuse me. Would you like to dance?" He's cute. And it's just dancing. I don't think Honey-kun could mind.
.
Hours later we all decided to call it a night.
I saw Cho and Keiko to their car to go back to her dorm. Abby and Kristin Ubered home. And I headed out thinking it wasn't a total disaster.
.
xXx
.
Tuesday, October 18:
Early Morning, Random Apartment, San Francisco, CA:
Buzz…Buzz…Buzz
I shut off my phone alarm, but not quick enough. "Are you leaving?"
"Yes. I have several things to do before my flight this afternoon."
She rolled over, her blond hair spread all of the pillow, "Want breakfast?"
"No." I gave her a quick kiss, "Thanks for last night. Go back to sleep."
"Don't thank me. It was amazing. I should be thanking you."
I gathered my clothes and met Tachibana at her apartment door.
See, I am good in bed.
.
xXx
.
Lunch, Five-Star Restaurant, San Francisco, CA:
"And then she woke up thinking we'd missed the flight," I elbowed Nomura in the ribs, "Like Kyoya'd leave us."
"Never," he said with a smirk.
"Well, I got nervous waking up somewhere strange," she huffed, then took a huge bite of lasagna. The chef here is quite good.
"We didn't really talk much last night. Did you hire all your positions?"
"Yes. I'd done extensive pre-interviews, so it was down to just three for each. Once I selected the CEO, the rest went quickly. He helped select the others."
"Anyone I know?"
"William Campbell." I shook my head. "He's well known in American health care."
"Makes sense."
By this time, Nomura'd managed to swallow. "I'm sure you've gotten dozens of marriage contract offers, Kyoya. Have you selected any?"
The look he gave her…so cold. "Hundreds. And no."
"Well, Keiko's father has started looking…"
"Nomura!" I'm sure I'm an ugly shade of red. "Sorry, Kyoya. Ignore her."
"Is your father looking?"
"He is, but I'm not sure I want an arranged marriage." I resisted the urge to play with my food. "I haven't told him this." I glanced at Nomura. "I haven't told anyone, but I like America. I think I want to stay."
Nomura's eyes grew huge, "Really?"
"Yes." I tried to slow down, but the words just spilled out, "I mean, my brother's the heir. Father doesn't need me for the business. He was talking about giving me a position, but I'm sure he'd rather me be married. I could carve my own path here."
"Interesting."
.
I had thought of hiring her to head our US office, but she wasn't qualified. But a lower position?
"What area of business interests you the most?"
She reached up and started playing with a curl of hair, "Advertising. I may not have taken many classes yet, but I've narrowed it down. I think I'd be good at it."
"How about some practical experience?"
"Like what?"
"I just hired a Marketing Director. How about you manage the advertising department under him."
Her face drained of color. What is it about some of the women I know? They should be confident. They were raised to be. Fucking society and their double standards.
"I'm not sure I'm qualified. I mean, I don't want you to hire me just because…"
"We're friends?" She nodded. "Don't worry about that. I own and run the Ootori Conglomeration, and no one gets hired that can't pull their weight. I demand the best, after all."
"If you're sure…"
"Definitely." He looked at his watch, "We can delay takeoff for an hour and make it up in flight. Let me take you over to the office and introduce you to your new boss."
Her eyes lit up, and she smiled a smile I'm certainly going to miss. "Thanks, Kyoya."
.
xXx
.
After Classes, Petto Chinmi:
I met her and Nagata-san at the door and instantly knew she isn't doing much better than last week. She's tired.
"Good afternoon, Goto-san. How are things here?"
"Just fine, Fujioka-sama."
"I'll be in my office for about an hour then the conference room for the department heads meeting." I nodded and followed. Nagata headed for the company security office to check on things there.
.
I found her sitting behind her desk, awkwardly typing because of her hand. She looked up and smiled at me over her laptop, "Ready?"
"Yes, Fujioka-sama."
She collected her notebook and that pen I gave her for her birthday, and we headed for the conference room.
"How's the physical therapy going?"
"Slowly, but I'm able to read my handwriting easier, though," she grinned, "I wouldn't expect anyone else to be able to."
We took our seats, and I handed her a copy of the agenda. She glanced at it quickly, "First up, where are we on the gachapon toys?"
"The ad agency has several ideas and will bring them up at your winter ad meeting on Friday."
"Friday?" She brought up her calendar on her phone, "Oh. There it is." Did she forget? "Excellent. Gorou-san, please make sure your entire department is there. We'll be kicking around several new ideas."
"Of course, Fujioka-sama."
"Next, any more data on the reactions to the new ads?"
.
After Gorou-san went through the weekly sales data, she brought up online sales again. "I worry that we're falling behind with such a basic store."
Money. That's why I haven't moved on it yet. I was ready to start a full revamp of the site right before we found out about the factory's crimes. Since then, I've had to watch every yen even with Chika's loans.
"Let's put a pin in that until after the settlement. We'll need that money to hire on a design team and expand the warehouse, assuming the sales justify it."
"But we don't know how long that will be."
"No." It could be weeks, months, or years. If they'd just offer me a settlement that I could live with. "In the meantime, start collecting ideas. We need something to set us apart from the larger chains and all-in-one sites."
I know she's unhappy about my decision, but we really don't have an option short of taking out another loan. She took a few notes then looked back up.
"Next, the trial."
My assistant spoke up first, "I've found a hotel for us all, Fujioka-sama. It's close to the courthouse without being overly expensive."
"Actually, I found a way to save us considerable amounts of money." My accounting director perked up. "Haninozuka Yasuchika will be flying to Seoul on the evening of the first to attend a board meeting on the second. He's asked if we want to join him on the Haninozuka private jet."
"When is he returning?"
"The night of the second, so it makes sense to take him up on his offer. He's not asking for any reimbursement since the plane was going anyway."
"Excellent."
"And I've been offered the Morinozuka apartment in Seoul for our accommodations at no charge." I looked over at Sato-san, "You'll be there until we leave, but will move to your hotel for the rest of the trial."
"An apartment?"
I turned to Imai-san, "Yes. It has five bedrooms, so the four of us and Chika. You can cancel our hotel reservations and adjust Sato-san's."
"What about your security?"
"They have their own accommodations both in the apartment and in another in the building."
I let them be excited for a bit. A private jet and luxury apartment are things they don't experience every day, after all.
"I also think this is the perfect time to inspect the new factory, so I'll be staying through the third, touring it then, and coming back that night on a commercial flight."
"Do you want me to stay for the tour?" Tanaki-san looked worried.
"I'll be fine, but if Sato-san can break away from the trial for the tour, that'd be great. You and Imai-san can fly back with Chika."
Once all that was settled, and Imai-san updated her notes for which reservations to adjust, I looked at the next agenda item.
"Oh, no." My face started burning, "I forgot to discuss the baked goods with Honey."
How could I forget?
Although I'm not sure why I'm surprised. I've been forgetting things. Like that art history quiz today. And the housekeeper had to track me down last night when I forgot about my physical therapy.
"It's fine," Tanaki-san said gently. "You see him tomorrow night, right?"
"Yes. I'll talk to him then." I slowly wrote a note to myself. That's part of the problem. I can't take notes like I could before. My to do list consists of one-word scribbles that half the time I can't figure out.
And I'm so tired.
.
xXx
.
Evening, Fancy Pants Golf Range, Tokyo:
"Are you sure you don't want to try, Yuki-chan?"
"I'm sure." There's no way I want to try swinging a golf club around and embarrass myself. Akito-kun has told me several times that having our own interests is fine, so right now I'm deciding to not learn to golf. "Maybe another time." I'm just here to watch and eat.
"You and I could learn together, Yuki," Tamaki pleaded with me, but I shook my head and ate my noodles.
"Stakes?" Ritsu took a couple practice swings.
"But…"
"It's alright, Tamaki-kun. We won't include you in the betting." Renge looks so cute in a short skirt and visor, all in small black and white checks. Tamaki, however, looks ridiculous in short pants and long, white socks.
"Loser pays."
"Lame," Ritsu grumbled, but got ready to hit his ball.
.
How did I let Renge-chan talk me into this? I feel like an idiot.
"Now stand with your feet apart. Hold the club like this," I watched her demonstrate, "then slowly bring it back then swing and hit the ball."
I missed.
"Keep your eye on the ball, Tamaki," Akito-kun called from his seat over by Yuki. Wish I was over there eating ramen and just watching.
I slowly brought the club back above my head, kept my eye on the ball, then swung it down…
"I hit it!" I yelled, then accidentally let go and the club went flying too. Fortunately, it just fell about a meter behind me.
"You probably need some lessons," Ritsu grinned at me.
.
Yuki-chan cleared her throat and read from the screen, "Par for the eighteen holes you played was 78. Akito-kun won with 82, followed by Ritsu with 89. Renge came in third with 97…"
"It's because these aren't my clubs."
"And Tamaki took forth with 164 before he stopped playing on the fourteenth hole."
"Guess I'll sign up for lessons."
.
xXx
.
Author's Note:
Not sure how many of you remember, but Haruhi's tried a disguise before. She only used it once or twice when she went to check out Jarou-san's son at the arcade. Guess it didn't stick. (Or, more likely, I forgot about it and due to the serial nature of this publication, it's hard to reintegrate it. Just go with it.)
All these nightmares about the knife guy and her not being able to sleep are building to a purpose. We'll get there next chapter.
Had to put that in there about Kyoya being great in bed. Some might think he'd be selfish, but my read is that he's got too high of an opinion about himself to not take care of his partner and be damn good at it. Anyway…my fantasy of him being 30 years older. Also had to give him one last walk of shame (not that I think it's shameful, it's just what it's called). He can't go home with random college girls at Todi.
Ended up scrapping several scenes I had planned in California because it was just too much about him hiring people that we'll never talk about again. Still a lot from CA. Oh, well.
The security meetings will be a weekly thing for Haruhi. Just her and not the boys because of her profile. I won't write each one, only when it's important, but thought I'd do the first one because of what I did with Mori. Yes, he will be getting over this overprotectiveness soon. Ogata's review and recommendations will help with all that. Plus her new head. Dad and I are still developing the results of the review and welcome suggestions. Should her new head be male or female? Younger or older? American (because of celebrity experience) or Japanese or something else? Let us know what you think.
Went back two stories to make sure I used the right name for the pizza waiter. She took Kyoya there once. No idea what the hangover special is. Leaving it to your imagination.
Not sure if you remember when the guys went to the sports complex in St. Louis. Akito, Ritsu, Akira, and Yorihisa were all good golfers and told Tamaki he really needs to learn to play because lots of business is done on the golf course. That's where that last scene comes from.
.
Next Chapter:
Honey and Haruhi talk puppy cupcakes…the security review officially starts…Haruhi wants to play GO…Yuki meets a new man…Hikaru settles things with Kyoya…Haruhi learns an important fact…and makes a big decision…
.
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.
