Author's Note:
Welcome back to the 6th installment of "The Last Straw" series, or what has turned into the Ouran Soap Opera.
Hold on to your hats – this is a sexy one…
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xXx
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Date Posted: May 11, 2024
Trigger Warnings: Language, Smooching, and Implied Sexual Things
The Painful Truth - Chapter 37: Date Night
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Wednesday, November 16:
Afternoon, Japanese Politics Class, Todi:
"That's all for today, class. Don't forget the test in two weeks."
As I slipped my pineapple into my briefcase, one of my guards/classmates cleared his throat – the signal someone's approaching.
"Hey." I looked up and saw one of my classmates holding out his hand, "I'm Anthony Bennett."
Hmm. American name and accent, but his Japanese was perfect.
Then he noticed me staring at his hand and jerked it back and bowed slightly. "Sorry. I was born here but spent the last five years in the States." That explains the handshake and backwards name. "I was sick on Monday and noticed you not only record the lecture but take extensive notes. I was hoping I could get a copy."
Huh?
I don't think he knows who I am.
Everyone knows who I am.
He tilted his head, and I realized I've just been staring at him. I bowed back slightly, "Ootori Kyoya. I can email them to you."
"Great. Let me give you my email."
As he dug around in his pocket for a piece of paper, I gave him a onceover. Tall. Almost as tall as Mori-senpai. Brown, curly hair coming down to his collar. Brown eyes behind glasses with the brightest red frames I've ever seen on a guy.
Born in Japan, but obviously went to high school in America. Guess that's why he doesn't know me.
"Here," he handed me his card. At least he knows that much about Japanese customs. "Maybe we could get together and study sometime. This upcoming test is going to be a killer."
"Sure." It popped out before I could even think.
What the hell is wrong with me today?
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xXx
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After Classes, Mori/Honey Apartment:
"This fucking sucks. He's just sitting over there with the Boss like he isn't a complete dick."
"Shh. We talked about this. Remember you agreed to be civil or at least ignore him."
"That was before I knew that jerk was coming back to Wednesdays."
I quickly looked around to check no one else could hear the twins.
I knew Hikaru would take Kyoya-senpai coming back hard. And this is his first day back.
Maybe I could do something to help…
I walked over and came up behind them, putting an arm around each of their shoulders. "I know this is hard for you, Hikaru. As a thank you for your understanding and good behavior," I gave him a quick smile, "the three of us can stay after everyone leaves, and I'll play a game with you."
He perked up immediately. "Alright. How about a race."
Video games. I should have known. "Tell you what. I'll play a couple video games if you'll play darts after."
"Works for me." Then he kissed my cheek and lowered his voice, "Thanks, Haruhi."
"You're welcome." I ruffled his hair and went back to my English assignment.
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These numbers don't match. I think I calculated the interest wrong.
Accounting is so not my best subject.
I put my hands together and raised them above my head, hoping to ease the stiffness in my back. When I felt the pop, I sighed and glanced around the room.
Across our shared desk, Honey-kun is working hard on his laptop. With that look of high concentration, he's probably studying for his real estate and investment class. It's his least favorite. I'm not sure why his father waited so long to have him start learning the family business, but he's paying the price of having to cram it now. At least the bakeries aren't demanding as much of his attention as they did just a few short months ago.
Satoshi and Chika are huddled together at their shared table and whispering quietly. I saw them waving Hikaru over to ask a question. Must be working on their computer science. I wouldn't have the first clue how to write a program.
I think Tamaki and Renge are working on that Manga for the French host club that we caught her writing. She's already published the second volume, and I can't wait for the third to come out. They're going on safari in Africa instead of an island in French Polynesia.
I saw a flash of pink out of the corner of my eye and turned towards the door…
A little girl in pigtails was peeking into the room, and when she saw me, her eyes grew to saucers, and she turned and fled.
What's a toddler doing here?
I headed out of the library to find out what's going on and eventually found her in my guest room standing in front of the dollhouse Honey-kun got me.
"Hi."
She spun around and gaped at me with her mouth open in a huge 'O'. Then her lower lip started to quiver.
"It's alright." I slowly walked up to her and knelt down, "You didn't do anything wrong."
"Not mine," she pointed at the dollhouse, her eyes welling up with tears.
"No, it's mine, but you can play with it if you want. Please don't cry."
She looked between me and the dollhouse a couple of times like she didn't understand. "Where's your mommy?"
She babbled a whole bunch of noises, but I'm pretty sure I heard the word 'cake' in there. It's a word I'm very familiar with.
"Is she in the kitchen?" That got me a nod. I stood up and held out my hand, "How about we go find her?"
She took it and we headed for that part of the apartment. This can't be Tamoto-san's daughter. Honey and Mori's housekeeper is in her fifties. Maybe she has a daughter and granddaughter visiting?
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When Cho-chan hadn't come back after over twenty minutes, I got worried. She's only seen the grief counselor once and she seems to be doing better, but she's the love of my life. I'll always worry.
She wasn't in her guest room or its bathroom. Not in the lounge or the game room. Maybe she got hungry? I headed for the kitchen.
As I got closer, I could hear her voice. "Yumi-chan's just adorable, Otani-san. I'm so glad I got a chance to meet her." Then I heard two giggles, one Cho-chan and one most definitely not.
I slowly peeked around the doorway and smiled in wonder. My Cho-chan's sitting on the counter holding a little girl who couldn't be more than two years old. They're both licking a bowl. Is that cake batter?
"This is delicious, Otani-san. So much better than any strawberry cake I've tried to bake."
"Baking is a science, Cho-sama. It takes practice. But I'm sure Haninozuka-sama enjoys your cakes."
Another giggle. "He does. Especially when I feed them to him."
I saw Tamoto-san, our housekeeper, smile indulgently as she quickly turned from the stove. She must be getting ready for dinner to be delivered. Kyoya picked the place – steaks.
That's when Cho-chan spotted me. "Honey-kun!"
"There you are. I guess I was worried for no reason." Then I put on a pout, "Is there any batter left for me?"
That laugh I love called me over, and she handed me a spoon. "Before you dig in, allow me to introduce Eto Otani-san and her daughter Yumi-chan. They're Takashi's assistant's wife and daughter up visiting from their apartment."
"It's an honor to meet you Eto-san, Yumi-chan," I bowed my head slightly then laughed, "Takashi didn't mention Eto-san had such a cute wife and daughter."
"It gets better, Honey-kun." I tilted my head and Cho-chan smiled, "Otani-san is a professional pastry chef. She's just taking some time off until Yumi-chan goes to school."
"Yes," Otani-chan kissed her daughter's cheek, "she'll start kindergarten in April, and I'll start looking for a job hopefully close to the apartment."
I finally took a bite of the cake batter – absolutely amazing.
"Please consider applying at Bun Bun's!"
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The first bite of Kobe beef melted in my mouth. Leaning back, I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to relish both the taste and the smell. We usually have commoner or street food delivered. Guess this is one advantage to letting Ootori back into the group.
Haven't had shit this good since we moved to the new compound. The Shiraishi Syndicate doesn't have the funds for this kind of luxury right now, and I've overextended my personal funds loaning them to the Syndicate to get the repairs and remodel underway.
Besides, it looks good for the head to eat traditional with their men, and the compound came with an excellent ramen chef. It's not like Asshole and I've been eating bargain sushi.
"Fucking delicious," Ritsu groaned. He's been understanding about the cut to our luxuries. He deserves a reward. I'll have to find one of the crazy love hotel rooms for this weekend. We haven't tried that one with all the inflatable furniture. Or we could go back to the trampoline one. That's one of his favorites…
"So," Renge leveled a mock-glare at the twins and Satoshi, "looks like you all had fun at the arcade Monday night. It looked so good that Tamaki-kun and I are going to go this weekend."
Satoshi's face immediately lit up, "It was a blast. Bowling, pool, karaoke, batting cages, and soooo many video games."
"Did they have photobooths?"
Kaoru pulled something up on his phone and handed it to Cho, "Sure did. Sports, couples, and a bunch of others. They even had three that could hold up to eight people.
"Akito and I were thinking of going for our date night on Friday."
"That's a great idea," Tamaki started jumping in his seat. "We could go on a double date."
Cho handed Karou's phone to Honey. He swiped through a couple pictures then gave a huge smile, "Make it a triple date!"
"What about you and Ritsu?" Cho asked me.
"I think we'll pass." When Ritsu looked like he wanted to protest, I put my hand on his knee and slid it up. "We already have plans." He swallowed hard and nodded.
"Mori? Haruhi?"
It's really not their thing, so I wasn't surprised when they looked at each other and Mori shook his head. "I can come over to the estate for a movie on Friday."
"And maybe we could go swimming after."
"Hn."
Much more them.
When Tamaki turned to the twins, Hikaru waved him off, "We're going to Neon with Satoshi on Friday."
"Chika?"
"No."
"Kyoya?" he practically whined at him.
"No, Tamaki. I have a business dinner." Whether he does or not, it ended the discussion.
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I could understand Kyoya not wanting to go. It's a date night. I'm surprised Tamaki asked. I'm looking forward to a nice, relaxing evening of dinner, a movie, and some hot tub time with my boyfriend.
"Ooooo!" Everyone jumped at Tamaki's squeal.
"What, Tamaki-kun?"
"It's perfect. Arcade starts with 'A'!"
I looked around to make sure everyone else had no idea what he's talking about. "Yes, Tamaki. Arcade starts with 'A'. So what?"
He's bouncing in his seat. At least he's practically across the table from me. Renge can control him in. "I was looking up places the commoners go on dates in Tokyo and found the most wonderful idea."
Several of us groaned, but Renge looked interested.
"They call it alphabet dating! You go on dates in the order of the alphabet, and 'A' can be arcade!"
Immediately, Renge got just as excited as him. "What a fun idea. What about 'B'?"
"Bun Bun's!" Honey yelled. "It's perfect. We can go there after the arcade."
Akito and Yuki looked at each other, "We're in."
"Oooo!" he squealed again. "There are five couples here. We should have a contest to see who finishes the alphabet first!"
"No."
"But Mori…"
"He's right, Tamaki," I spoke up. "All of us have varying demands on our time. It wouldn't be fair. Plus," I reached over and took Takashi's hand, "I'm not sure I like the idea of forcing dates depending on the letter they start with."
"Auto racing!"
I looked over at our yakuza couple and saw them grinning at each other. "Great excuse to take the fellas to that new track."
"Definitely," she grinned at him. "Saturday." I guess they're in.
Looking back over at Tamaki, I sighed, "I guess we'll try, but only if the date happens to work with the letter." 'G' for Go will be easy.
"Alright, my darling friend, but I know you'll be swept up in the excitement as soon as the two of you start."
I doubt it, but whatever.
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So far, tonight hasn't been a complete disaster. Everyone but Tamaki, Yuki, and Akito have been practically ignoring me, so I've flown under the radar and got quite a bit of homework done. At least the food is decent. I can't believe they sometimes order street food.
"Kyoya, I'd like to ask a favor."
I turned to Haruhi and could feel the eyes of everyone at the table on me. She never asks for a favor. At least not formally like this.
"Now that the lawsuit is settled and Petto Chinmi can finally put all that mess behind us, I'd like the company to host a winter holiday celebration for the staff and their families."
"A good idea that will promote company loyalty and help moral." But what does this have to do with me?
"I'd like to rent out the Tropical Aqua Garden for a day assuming," she tilted her head and grinned, "you've solved the crocodile, snake, and insect issues."
Instantly, my mind was back there that day. Watching her in that ridiculous shorts and pullover, wondering what the swimsuit underneath looked like. Watching her interact with the others, especially Mori, might have been the beginning of my interest in her.
But that's over. Time to move on.
"That shouldn't be a problem. I'll email you my contact over there and let them know you are to be treated as an Ootori VIP. He'll arrange for the family discount." I offered, fully expecting her to turn me down. I figured the favor was getting a date during the winter holidays.
"Thanks. I appreciate it. Even with winning the settlement, we'll need the discount in order to afford it."
Over a dozen sets of eyes around the table grew huge and stared at her, but it was Kaoru who said what we were all thinking, "You're going to accept a discount from one of us?" The 'from Kyoya' was implied in his tone.
"Well," she shrugged, "if it was just for me, I wouldn't ask, but my employees really deserve it after the last six months. Besides," she glanced at me, "Kyoya owes me one."
I nearly choked at her casual referral to all that mess. "I owe you more than one," I mumbled.
"True," she smiled. "Maybe we'll make this an annual thing."
"We can do that."
At her casual teasing, I felt lighter. Maybe this really will work.
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I leaned over towards my gorgeous wife and whispered, "You should probably remind them about Sunday."
"Thanks, Asshole. I forgot." She tapped her waterglass with her spoon, and everyone quieted down. "Hopefully everyone remembers you're coming to dinner at my newest strip club Sunday night."
Nods and confirming comments all around.
"Good. I'm going to go over what I said when I issued the invitation, just so we're all on the same page. This is our gentlemen's supper club, Komorebi [Elegance]. It's membership only, my most elite, and the only one that has a restaurant. It's set up a little like Ranka's in that there's a stage with restaurant tables spreading out from it. There's also a dancefloor off to the side and private party rooms."
"Can't wait to check those out," Hikaru grinned.
"They won't be open Sunday. This is a test of the kitchens and stage show."
"Hell, yeah. Hot, naked women!"
Bu glared at him and growled, "Apparently, you didn't listen when I issued the invitation. Because we aren't officially open, our licenses aren't in effect. Plus, you and several others here are underage. The talent will be wearing modified costumes that cover what's necessary. They will not be stripping, just performing. You are, however, free to tip them."
Hikaru slumped in his chair, but Karou and Satoshi looked like they remembered.
"There won't be any booze either. The bars will be serving mocktails, so order whatever cocktail you want, and they'll make it without alcohol." She took a pull on her beer, and I watched her lift her head back and swallow. Damn, she's got a sexy throat. Makes me want to lean over and suck on it…
"This group isn't big enough to fill out the dining room and the bars, so I'm going to fill it up with security. Kono has already talked to your detail heads, and they are working out who's coming. Those that are eating are considered part of the test and off duty. Those on duty will be fed, but not at the tables."
"That's a great idea, Shinobu."
She shrugged at Haruhi, "Figured they could use a good meal, and I won't have to worry about them getting too rowdy even without the booze." She looked around and nodded, "I guess that's it. The dancefloor will be open after dinner, so we can have fun after that, but it is a school night, so I'm closing at midnight."
"It sounds like it will be…entertaining."
She grinned at Akito, "Let me know if you're interested in becoming a member after you check it out."
He blushed, but Yuki nodded, "We will."
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Late Evening…
After everyone else had left, I followed Haruhi and the twins to the game room. I know she wanted to have some one-on-one time with Hikaru, but I want to spend as much time with my girlfriend as possible, even if I'm just watching her lose at video games.
As I settled into one of the large recliners set up to watch, I marveled again at how she decorated this apartment. Yes, Cho and the decorator helped, but I can see her small touches everywhere. Knowing that Mitsukuni and I don't play video games but that the group would be spending lots of time here, she set up a modest area with four game chairs, a huge screen, and enough seating for at least six people to watch, one of which is an oversized recliner that I'm comfortable fitting into.
She'll make a wonderful wife and partner one day.
"Jeez, Haruhi. You suck."
"You can't be just figuring that out now."
"No, but the depths of your suckiness continue to amaze me," Hikaru grinned.
"One more," Karou called out and started another racing game. "You can't place dead last every time. There are nine other racers out there the computer is playing."
"I've never placed anything but last."
At least they're playing a stylized cartoon racing game. Because it doesn't look real, it doesn't bother her to pretend to drive a car. Plus, hers looks like a purple pig, not a race car.
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"I've had it," tossing down the controller, I stood up. "I just came in last seventeen times in a row. It's time for darts."
"Sure thing, Triplet. I guess if you let us kick your ass that much, we'll let you kick ours."
"Idiots," but I only laughed and headed across the room. When Cho and I picked everything out for this room, I splurged and got a high-end electronic dart game. It's so much easier when it keeps score for you.
"By the way, Kaoru?"
"Yeah?"
"I know I asked for a power suit for the settlement signing, but you've got to stop putting me in heels. They kill my feet."
"But you probably hardly walked in them. Just from the car to the meeting room and back."
"Doesn't mean they didn't hurt. Gave me a blister on my heel. I had to donate that pair after only wearing them once."
Hikaru just rolled his eyes, "You've got to learn how to walk in them. None of our models complain."
"It's their job," I shot back. "I'll wear the heels for the photo shoots, because it's my job, but not for Petto Chinmi. No more heels," I poked him in the chest.
"Damn," he rubbed the spot where I'd poked him. "Alright. No more heels."
"What a wimp," Hikaru mumbled.
Maybe there's a way I can prove my point.
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xXx
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Thursday, November 17:
Lunch, Music Room 3 Soundproof Room, Ouran:
"What the hell?"
I scrolled through the social calendar my assistant created for me in absolute shock.
"Honami-san's got to be kidding."
There are over a hundred different events on here just for the rest of November! Teas, museums, fund-raisers, fashion events…and the festivals. I had no idea there were so many festivals! She's got me double, triple, and even quadruple booked just in festivals!
And Inokuma-san isn't any better. I know he's supposed to be managing my public image, but he wants me to open a festival and 'suggested' three red-carpet-like events. At least he's kind enough to say that I just have to walk the carpet for the publicity then can leave early. But…
And Renge's just nuts if she thinks the entire group should be going to three society dinners even if they are for 'good causes.' We're students. No one has time for that.
Karou's flagged seven different fashion things that aren't even for his line. I'm exclusively his model. There's no way I'm going to other designers' fashion shows. He'd put me in heels for sure.
It's like some of them had no idea how many invitations they received until I suggested we put them all together and see if we should attend some together as the On Okuri Board.
I like Ritsu's idea. The Snow Bank Pay it Forward event at the Tokyo Snow Festival. They've set up a fake snow slope in Yoyogi Park with a rail – whatever that is – for the snowborders. They can try it and get tested along with anyone that comes to watch to see if they're a match for someone needing a bone marrow donation.
Chika's got two fund raisers flagged that we should go to as members of the On Okuri Board. That at least makes sense. And just two. A tea - yes, another tea – that he's suggesting the girls of the group go to and a museum event for the opening of a new samurai exhibit that he's suggesting the guys or couples go to. Takashi flagged that one as one the Morinozuka's support, so I was probably going to that one anyway. Umeko-obasan's been insisting I attend more and more of those types of events.
Like that tea. That's how this whole calendar thing got started to begin with.
Well, I'll do the museum thing, but not the tea. It's on a Thursday afternoon, and I have a big test on Friday. As for the festivals, the Yatsushiro Myoken Festival sounds interesting. The festival itself is a registered historical event. Maybe that one and an illumination event. There are so many as the winter holidays come closer.
I'm not doing any of the red-carpet things my agent wants me doing. I'm sure we'll all be caught on camera at Ranka's once or twice, and Tamaki will no doubt have at least two more huge artist shows before classes let out for the holidays. And I have that stupid mall fashion show for Kaoru.
That has to be enough.
This is ridiculous. I need to talk to Honami-san about which events go on this calendar to begin with.
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xXx
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After Classes, Main Conference Room, Petto Chinmi:
I can't believe I'm here. Me! At the ad meeting for Petto Chinmi. Because of my photos!
The Ootori lawyer found me my own lawyer that specializes in artistic property. He's here with me ready to build a contract depending on what pictures they want and how they're going to use them.
All because I was standing a meter and a half to the left of their photographer and got a slightly better angle.
"Alright, everyone. Let's go through the mockups and see what everyone thinks."
The lights dimmed, and the photoshoot director projected the first of what I later realized would be dozens and dozens of suggested ads. I was surprised how quickly Haruhi and her marketing manager eliminated some. She knows more about this than I thought she did. I figured she wasn't this hands-on.
"Not that one."
"May I ask why, Fujioka-sama? It's a great shot of the dog eating from your hand."
"I'm not sure," she leaned to the side and studied the photo for a moment. "There's something about my body angle that isn't inviting. Maybe I'm just remembering what I was thinking at the time, but I like many of the others so much better. If you like the dog in it so much, you can always crop me out."
"Alright. We'll use just the dog."
Several more came by, then an ad with my picture popped up. "That's mine," I mumbled, my heart racing. They'd turned it into a billboard!
"Correct, Ito-sama. This is the photo we originally saw of yours that we wanted. As you can see, it's perfect for a billboard. We're recommending Petto Chinmi secure the rights to your photo and that the ad is used both here in Tokyo and Nagano for web sales."
I nodded and turned to my lawyer. I couldn't speak past the lump in my throat. My picture on billboards!
"Are there additional photos my client took that you are interested in?"
"Three more," and he projected a slide with two pictures just of dogs. One was a closeup of a dog eating a snowball Cho threw for him. The other showed a dozen dogs skidding to a stop in front of the trainer, the show being sprayed in every direction. "We'll crop the trainer out like so…" He advanced to the next slide. There was the group spraying snow but instead of coming to a stop in front of the trainer, they were stopping in front of Haruhi who's holding a bag of treats.
"I love it," she laughed. "I didn't even have to get all snowy for that picture."
"The magic of photoshop," then the director advanced one more. Somehow, I managed to catch Haruhi just as she fell off the innertube with the dog tumbling after her.
She looked at the director and raised a brow, "I get the feeling you're focusing on all the shots where I look like a clutz."
"Well, when working with animals, you can't truly be sure what you're going to get no matter how hard you plan. Especially with amateurs." Her eyes grew a bit, and he quickly added, "Animal amateurs. When so many of the photos ended up showing you being tackled or basically being overtaken by the dogs, we decided to run with the theme. They are the best shots."
She looked around the room, ending up on her agent. He nodded, "They are good shots, and the depiction doesn't lesson your public image." I caught a quick eyeroll. I don't think she really cares about that.
"Whatever." She waived at the director for him to keep going.
He and my lawyer had a quick exchange and decided to finalize negotiations separately so the meeting could move along.
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And now we get to find out if the experiment worked.
I advanced to the next slide and a video of Fujioka-sama on cross-country skis started playing, dogs running by her side.
"What's this for?" she asked, her eyes never leaving the looping video.
I took a breath to start to explain, but her marketing director, Gorou-san, waived me off and spoke, "Web and app advertising are what's big. Petto Chinmi's been focusing on traditional ad space such as magazines, newspapers, buses, etc. Places for still photography. We need video to expand into new markets, especially with the revamped website. I asked the agency to take video during the shoot and create a couple looping ads for social media."
Fujioka-sama's eyes had been narrowing and getting harder as Gorou-san spoke. I'd been warned she didn't like surprises, but I didn't think she'd show this much open hostility.
Gorou-san finished with a hard swallow, "Right now, these are just a test to show you their potential."
Fujioka-sama turned to Tanaki-san. He nodded, "I approved them making three test ads. I figured it would be easier to discuss and determine their potential if we had the ads already created to study."
I could almost hear the 'you'd never approve of them, so I'm asking for forgiveness rather than permission' implied.
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Video.
Video ads.
Video ads of me.
Everywhere.
Great. Just freaking great.
Once Kaoru sees these, my resistance to video and TV at Every Woman will seem hollow.
Then I realized how quiet it was in the room. "Do they have sound?"
"Yes, Fujioka-sama," and he hit a key on his laptop.
"For the best nutrition your pet can have, remember Petto Chinmi…"
And then my laugh filled the room as the dog knocked me over into the snow.
Freaking great.
"That's just a sample. We can use a different voice actor and different dialogue, or you could do it…"
"Me? Talk on the internet?" I think I'd rather be eaten by the dogs.
Gorou-san gave me a sympathetic smile, "It's only a suggestion, but I think the older male voice works well."
"The videos are excellent exposure for both the brand and you, Fujioka-san," Inokuma-san spoke up.
I'm already all over the internet and Tokyo with various advertising. I'm already recognized almost everywhere I go. "How much would these up my profile?"
He turned to the director, "What are the current targets for these?"
"The best test is to replace certain still ads on the internet with these videos and see if there's a change in the clickthrough rate. If they prove to be more popular – which they most certainly will – we'll replace almost all still internet ads with these and branch out to new markets."
"Since they are initially replacing current ads, the increase in the profile will be negligible. Once they break into new markets, it will depend on many factors. But your profile is already significant, so it's not like these videos would increase it by much. Odds are, you'd get a few more fans showing up to events you're known to be going to."
I don't know him well enough to know if he's being completely honest or if he's trying to reassure me it won't be that bad, but it's something I should do. "When would you post the first set?"
"We've broken down the replacements into three waves and could do the first next weekend."
I suppose if they're just replacing current ads, then it can't make me that much more popular. Maybe there won't be much of a difference in clickthrough rates.
"Alright, but please remember to inform Morinozuka security about the new ads."
"We'll go through proper procedures, Fujioka-sama. Don't worry." He closed his presentation, and the lights came back up. "We'll have a full report for you on Tuesday with the approved ads, including those with Ito-sama's photos," he nodded towards Yuki and her lawyer. "It will have a full timeline for the launch of all ads and the cost breakdown."
"Sounds good. Thank you."
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xXx
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Night, Yuki's Room, Shido Estate:
I'm not sure…
Must have imagined it…
He was just helping me get the best angle for the photo.
But did he need to be so close?
Well, yeah, if he wanted to see the shot I got on my screen.
How else is he going to help me take better pictures?
But did he have to hold my hips like that?
We were on the rooftop, and it was a long way down, but there was a safety railing. I was never in any danger. Numata-san wouldn't have let me get that close to the edge if he thought I could fall.
I'm sure I'm making a big deal out of nothing. Jigoku-sensei is a professional. He's teaching me how to take great photos.
There's nothing personal about it.
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xXx
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Night, Phone call between Numata and Shimizu:
Numata (Yuki Detail Head): "I hope you don't mind me calling so late."
Shimizu (Renge Detail Head): "No. Is something wrong?"
Numata: "I'm not sure…"
Shimizu: Strange. We've barely spoken. What on earth could he want to talk to me about.
Numata: "As the only female detail head for any Group member, I need your unique perspective."
Shimizu: Female troubles? From Yuki-sama? "I'll do my best, but you have female officers on your detail."
Numata: "I need a head's perspective. Someone outside the situation. Someone who will give me the straight shit and not worry about their job."
Shimizu: "Alright. Spill."
Numata: "As you know, Yuki-sama's been taking photography lessons with a professional photographer, Jigoku Zaiaku-san."
Shimizu: "Yes."
Numata: "I believe he's being inappropriate with her."
Shimizu: "Inappropriate, how?"
Numata: "Until tonight, it was hard to put a finger on. He comes up behind her and looks over her shoulder at her camera. He's put his hand on the small of her back to guide her around for different shots. She never gave any indication she was bothered by it."
Shimizu: "But you were?"
Numata: "Enough to ask Tachibana to come to a lesson and give his opinion. Fortunately or unfortunately, he didn't do anything I was concerned about then, so Tachibana didn't see any issues."
Shimizu: "And tonight?"
Numata: "He took her to Tokyo Plaza Ginza Rooftop. Its 12th floor roof has good views of the surrounding streets and city. There's a pedestrian crossing below. Obviously, I checked it out before we went. It's a favorite for amateur photographers to play with all the neon and other lights after dark. They lean over the railing and take pictures straight down, experimenting with different lighting effects."
Shimizu: "OK."
Numata: "He was very hands-on. Holding her hips while she leaned over for the shots, leaning against her back while he looked over her shoulder. I can't say for sure because of the angle, but I swear at one point he was looking down her shirt."
Shimizu: Asshole. She's still a minor, I think. "What a pig."
Numata: "Yes."
Shimizu: "Did Yuki-sama seem upset?"
Numata: "She was quieter than normal on the drive home, but I can't say for sure it was because of his behavior."
Shimizu: "Well, you wanted my opinion. Here it is. The guy's an entitled jerk. Is there a way you could cook up an excuse to shoot him?"
Numata: "I wish." I very much wish.
Shimizu: "So, what do you want from me?"
Numata: "I'm not sure. Do I talk to Yuki-sama? Tell her about what I'm seeing and ask if she's alright? Do I get Tachibana back? I'm new enough to the dynamics of the group and Yuki-sama herself, to know to tread lightly. I don't want to jeopardize our working relationship."
After remembering his hand on her hips, I practically growled, "If I knew she was upset by it, I'd handle it. But I don't want to overstep."
Shimizu: "She's young. I'm sure you were briefed on her family dynamics before she moved into the Shido's."
Numata: "I was told some things, but I'm beginning to think I wasn't told everything."
Shimizu: "Tachibana may not have known everything, though I find that hard to believe. He might have thought you didn't need to know the entire history because she doesn't see her father anymore."
I leaned back on the sofa in my apartment and got comfortable. This will be awkward.
"What I think I know, I've surmised through observation and hints. I think her father hit her. Based on how she became engaged to Akito-sama, I know her father raised her to marry who he told her to. She was shocked when Ootori-sama told her she'd have a choice. She carries a lot of insecurities around with her."
Numata: "I've noticed. I know her father used her security as spies, and I've had to work hard to gain her trust. I'm not sure I have it yet. I don't want to ruin what I do have."
Shimizu: "She was pretty much raised to do as her father told her without question and then to do what her husband told her without question. She probably feels she must put up with whatever a male authority figure does to her."
Numata: "She absolutely does not have to fucking put up with that. She'll be a damn Ootori soon. Akito-sama loves her. It's all over his face and actions when he's around her. He'll never treat her like that."
Shimizu: "I know. They're a cute couple to watch."
Numata: "With her being married to a supportive Ootori who wants a partner, she'll have all the power in any dynamic."
Shimizu: "Again, I agree. She just needs to realize that." I thought for a second, then realized I know the perfect person for that job. "I have an idea…"
.
xXx
.
Friday, November 18:
Dinner, Main Lounge, Mori/Honey Apartment:
"This is such a fun idea, Honey-kun. I never would have thought of it. A picnic curled up in our pink beanbag."
"Anything for you, Cho-chan." I leaned forward and kissed the grain of rice off the corner of her mouth. "I figured since we're going to Bun Bun's for dessert and will probably snack at the arcade, that a small dinner is all we needed."
"It's perfect," and she popped another piece of sushi in her mouth. I smiled as I watched her cheeks puff up like a chipmunk.
I really need to figure out how to propose. I had such a great idea. It was so much fun, so cute, and I was going to do it in front of the entire group. But with Keiko-chan's death, it's not right. It needs to be romantic and amazing. And probably private.
A private dining room in an amazing restaurant? Here at the apartment when Takashi's not home? Maybe at the Haninozuka estate out in the gardens?
I've got the ring. It's not fair to make her wait, but I want her to be happy. She's a little better each day. I don't want her first thought to be who will she choose for her maid of honor.
That counseling session helped. Maybe after another couple of them.
.
I leaned back and rested my head on Honey-kun's chest. I could hear his heartbeat and feel his chest rise and fall as he breathed. It's relaxing and reassuring.
I want to do this every night. I want to spend every day and every night with him. We love each other. The contract is settled.
I wonder why he hasn't proposed.
The longer he waits for the proposal, the longer we have to wait to get married.
I know he has a ring. He hinted as much.
Is there something I can do to hurry him along?
.
One minute, she's resting against my chest, and we're both off in our own worlds thinking. The next minute, she's rolled over, laying on top of me, and kissing my throat.
"Cho-chan?" It came out as a strangled squeak.
Leaning back, she looked me in the eyes…
She's beautiful. Her lips a little puffy. Her eyes darker than normal.
"Kiss me, Honey-kun. I've missed being close to you."
We both moved towards each other until our lips met.
I love doing this.
I could do this forever.
.
xXx
.
Dinner, The Diner:
"So, it's loaded potato skins, beer-battered fish sandwich, the meatloaf, chicken and waffles, onion rings, a root beer, and a strawberry milk shake. Is that it?"
"And a stack of blueberry pancakes for dessert," Tamaki-kun added as we handed our menus back to Kisa-san. "I'm so happy you're working tonight."
She waived her arm around at the almost full restaurant, "Can't pass up working Friday night." Then with a quick smile and a wink, she headed for the kitchen.
"We can't possibly eat all that, Tamaki-kun. What were you thinking? And you didn't even like the meatloaf."
"I wanted to have some of all the things I liked when we used to come here, and that meatloaf was growing on me."
Sure, it was.
"This was a good idea." Looking around, I didn't see any press or Haruhi fans. "Now that we're not expected here, I suppose the group could show up every once in a while, if we didn't do it too often."
"Tonight was the perfect opportunity for us to come back since we're dressed for the arcade. I mean, the Suoh name has a lot of pull, but I don't think we could have gotten into one of our favorite restaurants dressed like this." He looked down at his designer t-shirt and jeans then over at my cropped sweater and miniskirt. Definitely not dressed for Michelan stars.
"This makes up for not eating commoner on Wednesday." I wasn't surprised Kyoya chose the luxury meal he did. He never liked much of anything that he considered 'commoner'.
Our drinks, onion rings, and potato skins arrived, and we started in on them. "We're going to be so full, we won't be able to eat anything at the arcade."
"They have food there?"
I didn't roll my eyes, but I was tempted. "Yes. Full snack bar. Traditional Japanese snacks and things like this," I popped an onion ring in my mouth. It's been a while since I ate something this greasy.
Yum.
I hope my face doesn't pay the price.
I glanced at his face and almost laughed at the pout. "Don't worry, Tamaki-kun. I'm sure the food is better here, but if you really want to try something there, we can." If we can't finish it, I'm sure someone on our details can.
That perked him up as he devoured another potato skin.
.
xXx
.
Dinner, Informal Dining Room, Ootori Estate:
"And I'm so behind in my reading. I hope you don't mind if we just study tomorrow."
"No, that's fine. I have a history report to work on." And a new chapter of my Kaname/Zero slash fan fiction to write. "Should I come over here?"
"That'd be best. All my reference books are here."
Poor Akito-kun. He's been studying so hard lately. And doing so many clinical hours at the teaching hospital. Maybe I could arrange for a couple of massage therapists to come by and give us a couple's massage in the afternoon tomorrow. He can't concentrate if he's tied up in knots.
Or maybe I could give him a massage…
"How's your dinner?"
"Excellent." One of the assistant Ootori chefs was in training as a ramen chef. "I wish he was planning on staying after his training is complete."
When Akito just raised a brow, I couldn't help blushing, "Since I'm going to be living here as your wife, I've been talking to all the servants. Because Kyoya isn't married and won't be living here, I'll be the lady of the house. It's my responsibility."
He set his chopsticks down. His worried look worries me. Did I do something wrong?
"Yuki-chan," he reached out and took my hand, "you're marrying an Ootori, not THE Ootori. You don't have to run this estate. Kyoya owns it. That's his job. That's why we have an excellent estate manager, butler, and housekeeper. After we're married, you'll be starting university. Concentrate on your studies, enjoy our early years of being married. Those are your responsibilities."
Oh. Does he think I can't manage a household. Father insisted I learn…
"Don't." I looked up, and he caught my eye. "I can see it on your face. Just because it isn't your responsibility, doesn't mean that you aren't able to do it. It just means that you don't have to. If we move out into our own place, you'd be in charge if it, and you'd do an excellent job."
"Are you sure?"
"Most definitely. I've never seen you not do an excellent job. Remember the On Okuri Ball and all you put into that. It was a tremendous success, and you played a pivotal role in that."
My face is so hot, I'm sure I'm blushing. "Thank you."
"I meant every word." He picked his chopsticks back up and started digging into his ramen.
.
xXx
.
Dinner, The Diner:
"The next month is going to be incredibly busy at the gallery. That huge play is being staged next weekend, there are seven shows including three coming from the United States. I'm hosting one of them as a full red carpet. Invitations are already delivered. I invited the entire group."
"I'm sure they'll be happy to come and support you."
"I must remember to tell Haruhi I ordered plenty of the shrimp puffs she likes," I smiled thinking about my darling glutton friend.
"When she and Mori get married, you'll have to make sure you give her the name of that caterer."
"Married? My darling friend is getting married? When? Why haven't they said anything? Did I miss the announcement in the society section?"
Suddenly, Renge-chan's fingers covered my lips. "Hush, Tamaki-kun. They aren't engaged…yet. You can tell they love each other just by watching them. I simply meant that an engagement is inevitable." Her hand dropped and she quickly kissed me. "But probably not for a few more years. Haruhi will probably want to graduate from law school before starting a family."
She's so different than I am. Than Renge-chan. Once we knew we wanted to be married, neither of us could wait. It's only five months until our wedding, and it seems like five years. I could never wait five actual years.
Commoners are strange.
.
xXx
.
After Dinner, East Wing, Ootori Estate:
"Yuuuuuki," I breathed as I tore my lips from hers.
But she just lunged and kissed me again.
What started as a tour of the remodel turned into testing out the new sofa in the lounge. It's quite comfortable.
A week from now, we'll be in our hotel room in Australia. She'll be eighteen. Her birth control will be effective. And I'll have her to myself for three days and the plane ride back.
She's lying on top of me, and when she wiggled, I gasped and moaned.
Does she know what she's doing to me?
Soft hands slid under my shirt, gliding up my stomach and chest, then her thumbs rubbed my nipples. I didn't even try to stop my hips from bucking.
"Ohhh," she gasped in surprise. Guess she can feel how much I want her right now.
Her lips left mine and kissed their way to my ear.
"I think I can help with that," she whispered as her hands changed direction.
Just one more week…
.
xXx
.
Late Dinner, Love Hotel:
We walked into the room, and I looked around, "What? No trampoline?"
"Easy, Boy. I thought something quiet and romantic would be nice for a change. It can't always be sex gymnastics."
"Why not?" I waggled my eyebrows and got smacked in the back of the head.
"Idiot." She dropped her bag and headed for the menus, "Besides, this place has the best food out of all of my hotels."
"Great. Fucking starving."
.
"Mmmmmmm, this ramen's pretty good."
"So's the Takoyaki," I said as soon as I swallowed a big bite. We ended up ordering a bit of everything and eating in the conversation pit – basically a big sofa set into a square in the floor. We have to climb in and out of it. Weird, but comfortable.
"You worried about Sunday?"
Sunday? Sunday? "You mean the restaurant test?" He nodded as he slurped. "Not really. When I started the remodels, I was only the heir. Now I'm an heir and a head. My managers are scared shitless of me. They won't fuck up."
"Yeah, with the new syndicate, you've got even more places to hide bodies."
"Fuckin' A." I grabbed a skewer of yakitori and bit in. This particular love hotel completely gutted and remodeled their kitchen and brought in an entirely new staff. What was here before was more of a 'fast food' menu that was borderline disgusting.
"So," I looked up from my food, "before we move on to the romantic sex gymnastics, is there anything we need to talk about?"
"Maybe," I finished my bite and half a beer. "Since it's only repairs in the apartments on the Compound, your company outsourced that to a regular construction company. They start next week. It just wasn't worth the money to do extensive green remodels." Besides, I don't have it. "They're using green materials, and we'll make green changes in the future as needed, but we need to get them done and my guys back on the Compound."
He'd been nodding along. "Yeah, Okazoe-san told me. It's no problem, Bu. I get it."
"I just want them back on the Compound so I can sell the apartments."
"Have you talked to Mori or Satoshi?"
"Wanted to fix them first."
"Might want to talk to them first. They remodel when they buy a new property. Putting your money in first might be a waste if they're just going to redo a bunch of shit."
Hadn't thought of that. "Alright. I'll catch them on Wednesday."
I watched as he lifted his ramen bowl to drink the rest of the broth. The cords in his throat stood out as a drop ran down his chin.
Lowering the bowl, he let out a very satisfied noise. "That was delicious." Then he lunged at me, rolling me on to my back and climbing over me. "But not as delicious as you."
.
xXx
.
Night, Private Theater, Morinozuka Estate:
We couldn't have been more than twenty minutes into the movie when I glanced at Haruhi to see if she was enjoying it.
She must have thought the exact same thing because she turned and caught my eye, "This is terrible."
"Hn."
It was supposed to be a romantic comedy about two lawyers but was unrealistic and not at all funny. The jokes were borderline disgusting, and there was no chemistry between the two leads.
"Let's go swimming."
"Sounds good."
.
Twenty minutes later, I come out of the dressing room wearing a deep purple bikini that the twins must have left for me. They also must have thrown out all my one pieces at the same time. I knew Kaoru messed with my clothes in my room, but I didn't think he'd switch out the suits I keep at the pool.
Jerk.
Although maybe I'm being too hasty.
I walked up to Takashi and gently closed his mouth. "You like?"
"Hn." He's blushing…
And looks damn good in his suit. Long, muscled legs. Broad shoulders. Narrow waist.
Now I think I'm blushing.
I grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the pool. "Race you to the other side," and I jumped in and started swimming. He passed me with his dive.
.
xXx
.
Night, Neon:
"There they are!"
"Oh, he's soooo hot."
The long, black limo pulled up to the door, and Morinozuka Satoshi and the Hitachiin twins climbed out. The yelling and squealing from the girls in line nearly blew out my ear drums. Forgot to put the plugs in that I usually wear when those guys show up.
"Hello ladies!" one of the twins called out and they both waved. Morinozuka was headed for a couple girls he recognized in the line. It's going to be a long night.
"Hey, Tadahiro. How's it going?"
"Fine, Hitachiin-sama." I can't tell them apart. Never really tried. "Any requests?" The manager has made it clear that if they see someone in the line they want in, we're to make it happen.
"How about you pick tonight?"
"Sure thing, Hitachiin-sama." Guess he doesn't want to make any of them mad by not picking them.
"We'll see you beautiful ladies inside," he called out as he waved and the three of them headed in. I've orders to never make anyone from that group wait. They bring in too much money.
.
xXx
.
Night, Love Hotel:
"I've got a surprise for you, Ritsu," she breathed in my ear as she pulled my shirt over my head.
"There's a trampoline in the next room?"
"Will you shut up about that fucking trampoline. We'll do that next time."
"Fine," he huffed. What a child sometimes. "So, what's the surprise."
"Well, first," I unbuttoned his jeans, "you need to be naked."
"Like it so far." His jeans and boxers joined his shirt on the floor. "Now what?"
"Next, you need to lie still and close your eyes."
I stood looking down at my incredibly hot husband lying naked on a heart-shaped bed and wondered if he'd like what I wanted to try. He's usually up for almost anything, but you never know.
"I'm waiting…"
"No peeking," and I slipped a blindfold over his eyes and licked a nipple and blew across it.
"Fuck… Bu…"
"Be still." Then came the handcuffs.
Click…
"What the fuck?"
Click…
"Now you're all mine, Mr. Himura. To do whatever I want."
"Fuck, yeah, Mrs. Kasanoda. All yours. Have fun."
And I did.
.
xXx
.
Night, Round 1 Stadium, DiverCity, Tokyo:
"Renge-chan, my darling, aren't you supposed to put your fingers in the holes?"
She wiggled her fingers at us and smiled, "I'm not ruining this manicure." Then she turned and rolled the bowling ball down the aisle using both hands. It went immediately into the gutter.
Honey was next. Not sure where he learned to throw a ball, but…, "STRIKE!" he yelled as he bounced back.
"That's so wonderful, Honey-kun!" Cho gave him a big kiss, and Renge told her not to fraternize with the enemy.
We're playing boys against the girls.
When it was Yuki-chan's turn, I couldn't pull my eyes off her ass. That ass that I'd been squeezing just an hour or so ago.
Her flirty look over her shoulder told me she knew exactly what I was thinking. Then she wiggled it a bit and rolled the ball. It made it down and knocked over a couple of pins.
Then she repeated the performance.
I was next and managed one pin. My posture must be off.
.
When it was all over, the boys won. Despite the three of us doing our best to distract them.
"You carried the game, Honey-kun. Seven strikes!" Cho bounced next to him, holding his arm. Great. Now he decides to watch her chest and blush.
Yuki leaned closer and whispered, "I tried, Renge. Akito barely hit anything."
"Same with Tamaki-kun," I whispered back. "It must be the martial arts training that lets him concentrate."
"I guess."
"What's next, my darling Renge-chan?"
"I'm not sure," I looked at the arcade map. There's so much to do here.
That's when Akito came up and pointed at Honey, "Batting cages. I want a chance to win my honor back."
"You got it, Akito-kun."
And Akito won two out of three.
.
xXx
.
Night, Pool Room, Morinozuka Estate:
Thirty minutes later, we're in the hot tub.
"Taka…," she moans as I stroke her back and nibble on her neck. She's all hot, slick skin and tempting noises. It's difficult to keep my hands in respectable places.
Her head turns, and our lips meet.
It's like an explosion in my head every time.
The woman I love is kissing me.
Slowly, her hands slide around my sides, the fingertips teasing under my waistband.
"Mmmmmm. Takashi, you feel so good," she mumbles into my mouth as her tongue glides across my lips.
She's kneeling across my lap, her knees on the bench on either side of me. Our chests are pressed against each other. There're only two small triangles of fabric separating them. The water's lapping at our shoulders. It's so hot in here.
Next thing I know, my fingers are tangled in the string holding her top on. I only have to pull to untie the bow…
"Haruhi…"
"Shhh…" Her lips cover mine again. What was I going to say?
Short fingernails dig into my sides as her grip tightens. Our chests separate as she pulls back. Then gentle lips trail down my chin, then my jaw, then my throat…
"Haruhi…"
I almost ask her to stop when she catches my eye, takes a deep breath, winks, then submerges her head.
I bit the inside of my cheek hard to keep from yelling when she started sucking on my nipple under the water.
.
Next thing I know, strong hands grasp my hips, lift me up and away, and practically toss me to the other side of the hot tub.
"What the hell?"
Takashi's leaning back, panting. His eyes are crazed. "We have to stop," he gasped. "We have to stop before we can't."
Shit.
We've never gone this far. Certainly not almost naked in a hot tub. And most definitely not in his parent's house with security cameras pointed at us.
That thought broke the mood, and a shiver went down my spine despite the hot water.
"You're right. I'm sorry."
"Never apologize for your feelings. Our feelings. How we make each other feel. But we must stop now."
I gave him a small smile and nodded. "Being wet and half naked isn't making this any easier. How about we change back into regular clothes and play a game of GO over dessert."
"Good idea."
.
xXx
.
Night, Round 1 Stadium, DiverCity, Tokyo:
"That can't be them. Why would they be here?"
"I'm telling you, that's Suoh Tamaki and his fiancée Houshakuji Renge. Japan's Diamond Couple!"
You could practically hear the capital letters.
No security issues so far. Yes, they'd been recognized, but the bowling lanes and the batting cages were set up in a way that gave them a little privacy. Now that they're out on the main floor, all that's gone.
"New post. With that, all their hashtags are going."
Great. At least the fans were keeping their distance and Fujioka-sama isn't here.
.
"Pool."
"Air Hockey."
"Table Tennis."
"Pool."
"How about Honey-kun and I go check out the photo booths while you play couple's table tennis. I'm terrible at that."
"Great idea, Cho-chan," and he took her hand and headed to the photo booths.
"We may never get them back," Tamaki sighed.
"Then Akito-kun and I will just have to beat you at table tennis." I leaned over to him and whispered, "Can you even play?"
"Oh, yeah. I'm not that bad."
It was a slaughter.
.
"There they are," Cho-chan pointed. "Let's join them. I like air hockey."
From the score, they'd just started. Three to one, Tama-chan and Renge-chan leading.
I won Cho-chan a couple of plushies at this weird claw game, and we took so many pictures. Then we edited the pictures adding flowers and hearts before posting. The responses are so much fun. They call us Japan's Pink Couple!
"Be warned, Honey-kun. I'm pretty good at this."
"Winner chooses the next date!"
My reaction time is so quick, I'd win every time, so I held back a little. I want her to choose our next date.
When she won, she gave me the best smile, "Looks like we're going to a puppy café!"
.
xXx
.
Night, Love Hotel:
"Lean back, let me…"
Bu squirted some shampoo into her hands and lathered them up, then they dove into my wet hair. "Ahhh." A salon might be girly, but having your naked wife wash your hair in the shower is hot as hell.
When she was done, I returned the favor. It's a lot easier with it short. "You going to grow it out again?"
"Not sure," she moaned as my hands slid down her neck to rub her shoulders. "It took forever and will probably look like shit for a year until it gets longer."
"Extensions?"
She tossed me a weird look over her shoulder, "Didn't know you knew what those were, Asshole."
"Hanging around the twins too much."
"Maybe. I could always have them taken out if it's too much of a pain in the ass."
I slid my hands down her sides to her hips and spun her around. Smashing my lips to hers, I picked her up and slammed her into the shower wall.
Slow and romantic has its charms, but it's time for wild and crazy.
.
xXx
.
Night, Neon:
"You're such a great dancer, Satoshi-kun."
Yeah, but you're not. She's not even paying attention to me.
I spun her out and back, and she barely stayed on her feet. She keeps searching the crowd. "Looking for your friends?"
Her head whipped back to face me, "No. Just looking."
"Hey! Miki!" A big guy came out of the crowd and up to us. "There you are!" He glared at me, "Who the fuck is this?"
Shit. Had she been watching for a boyfriend?
I let go and stepped back, holding up my hands, "I'm sorry. I didn't know she had a boyfriend." Still glaring. "I don't want any trouble. We were just dancing."
All of a sudden, it was like a light bulb went off over his head. "Morinozuka Satoshi?"
"Yes?"
He gave a shallow bow, "Congratulations on your silver medal. It was a fight of a lifetime."
"Thank you."
Now he's grinning at me like a loon. How'd we get here?
"Jun?"
He spun to look at her, and the glare he'd been giving me came back. "What were you doing dancing with him? Trying to make me jealous?"
"Well…"
"That's it," he shouted and stepped back from her. "I've had it with your shit, Miki. I can't take the mind games anymore. We're finished." Turning back to me, he waived at her, "You can have her if you want." Then he took off.
Her head swiveled between me and his retreating back. It ended on me, and she smiled like she won a treat.
Giving her a small bow, I told her to find another dancing partner. "I'm here for fun, not for drama or a girlfriend." Then I headed for the bar and bought a round of drinks for the girls waiting their turn to dance with me.
.
Holding my phone to get the video, I swayed on the edge of the floor. It was my turn to take the pictures while my friends got to dance with the twins.
Damn, they know how to dance. They'd pull a girl in close, grind and shimmy for a bit, then spin them out, switch, and keep going. And they're such strong leads, we don't have to be great dancers to have fun.
Last song, I was dancing, and I think it was Hikaru that whispered in my ear how hot I looked and then nibbled on my earlobe. It was the hottest thing, and my friend swears she got it on video.
I wonder if their mother will comment on the pictures this time.
.
xXx
.
Night, Game Room, Morinozuka Estate:
Plink…
I studied the board after his latest move, and almost sighed. The formations are sloppy and all over the place. Neither of us is at a high level in this game, but we're usually better than this.
But I can't stop thinking about what happened in the hot tub.
It's not fair to compare, but Kyoya's my only other experience with that, and it's difficult not to. With him, it was so urgent. Everything was new, every feeling, every touch. And he always wanted more. I sometimes felt like I was racing to keep up. Like he wouldn't give me time to get comfortable with what we were doing.
Takashi's different in almost every way. This time everything's new to him. He's enjoying discovering what all this feels like, and I'm the one going faster. And he's the one slamming on the breaks.
But he's also a completely different person than Kyoya. He'll never push. He'll always want what both of us want. No pressure.
And I feel so much more for him than I thought possible. Comfortable, safe, daring, all hot and bothered, and loving. Can't forget that one. There's a loving reverence he shows me that Kyoya never did.
If he hadn't stopped us, if there hadn't been security cameras…
We're not ready for that yet, but the idea doesn't scare me.
.
Plink…
Haruhi's white stone completely disintegrated my offensive. I didn't even see that possible counter.
Not surprised. I'm having a hard time concentrating on the game.
What did we almost do?
If we had been in the privacy of my apartment, in my bedroom, would I have been able to stop us? Would I have even wanted to?
She didn't sleep with Kyoya. She's hinted that much. But how far did they go? Further than what we did tonight, I think.
I want to marry her. I want her for life. She's said she wants me as a partner.
Morinozuka's and Haninozuka's are taught making love is a precious thing to be freely given after marriage.
Now that I've experienced a taste, can I wait? If we are going to get married, do we need to wait?
Doesn't matter.
We've only been dating a couple of months – and look at all that's happened in those months. We're not ready for that. We're not ready for more than tonight. We probably weren't ready for it.
I'll have to be more careful.
The last thing I want to do is ruin what I've wanted for so long.
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xXx
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Dessert, Bun Bun's Nearest the Arcade:
"Here you go, Sir. Please enjoy," the employee behind the counter handed me the tray with a bow.
I'd gotten several yummy treats including the two new menu items to surprise my Cho-chan. When we got in here, the guys escorted our dates to a table then came up to order. I went last since I offered to pay.
She was bouncing in her seat when I got there. "Yum, I just love your cake coffee, Honey-kun." She grabbed the mug and lifted it to her lips then burst out laughing. "There's an Usa-chan in my mug!"
"Do you like it? It's new. A marshmallow Usa-chan flavored like strawberries."
I watched her lift the bunny up from the cup with her spoon then bite the head off. "Delicious. It makes it strawberry cake coffee!"
Another success!
"What's that?" she pointed to the cake on the tray.
"It's new too. Aren't the kitties funny?" A small, round, two-layer cake with several marzipan kitties on top, climbing between the layers, standing up against it, and peeking out from under the bottom. All done in pastels to match the bakery theme.
"They're just adorable." She plucked one off the top and popped it in her mouth. "And tasty, too."
I looked at the others to make sure they were enjoying their treats.
Akito stuck with his standard cake coffee order, but Yuki-chan was eating the new crystal candy and making yummy noises. "It's delicious, Honey. And I love the way they embedded an Usa-chan into the center of each."
Tama-chan and Renge-chan were feeding each other bunny, kitty, puppy, and teddy bear shaped dango.
"This was a great idea, Honey." Tama-chan turned to Renge-chan and kissed her quickly. "That's 'A' and 'B'. What should we do for 'C'?
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xXx
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Night, Love Hotel:
We decided to go simple for dessert, so we ordered a dozen each of matcha, chocolate, and strawberry cream puffs.
"Lie down, Bu." I put my palm on her chest and eased her back. "I'm going to use you as the plate."
"Fine, you perv, just as long as you feed me."
I put a chocolate puff half in my mouth and leaned over for her to bite it. I pulled back chewing my half. "Tasty."
"They outsource the baked goods from a nearby bakery. Totally worth it."
"No shit," and I popped a strawberry one.
"Hey, don't forget me."
Reaching down, I chose a matcha one on her thigh and fed it to her.
Then her phone went off.
"Thought you said no phones."
"I thought we were done, and I need to be available in case something happens with the shipment we're moving tonight."
"Oh, OK." I didn't realize they were moving something tonight. She's got her business, I've got mine.
She checked it and got a weird look on her face…disappointment?
"What?"
"Look," and she held it up for me to see.
It's Honey's Twitter account with a picture of Akito and Yuki playing air hockey.
"Looks like fun. You wish we'd've gone?"
"Kinda." She grabbed the three puffs still on her breasts and sat up. "Once graduation happens, we'll be adults. We aren't going to university. We'll have jobs. You'll be the heir of the Kasanoda Syndicate full time, learning the parts you don't know yet, running parts of it. I'll be learning more about the Himura Syndicate and running the Shiraishi Syndicate full time. I'll be a boss, a head. I won't be able to use school as an excuse to see them anymore."
She bit into a chocolate puff with vengeance. "Do you know how hard it will be to justify going to a fucking arcade with our friends as the head of a syndicate?"
Finishing off my beer, I thought about what she said.
She's right. Once I'm running a division of the Kasanoda Syndicate and we don't see those guys every day, we won't be able to just go and hang at Neon or the arcade or even Mori and Honey's apartment.
"Yeah, the only real reason we'll have to spend time with them in On Okuri."
"Fuck," she stood up and started shaking the crumbs out of the sheets.
Did she eat the last puff?
"We're just going to have to spend as much time with them as we can while we can."
"Yeah. Starting with that art show next week for Tamaki."
She crawled under the sheet and looked at me, "Turn off the lights, Ritsu, and get in bed. I don't think we're done for the night."
Don't have to tell me twice.
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xXx
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Night, Neon:
"Oh, Satoshi, you're such a gentleman."
"Well, I want to make sure you make it to the train alright."
I don't usually stay until closing because it gets awkward with the girls either asking for my number or trying to follow me home, but tonight I couldn't stop dancing and before I knew it the lights came on.
I ended up buying a round of waters for the group I'd been flirting with and now we're walking to the train station, my limo slowly following. Even though it's a safe part of town, with me and my security detail here, I know nothing will happen to these girls.
"Good night," I called out and waived as they walked down the stairs to the station. "I'll be dancing again tomorrow night!"
"We'll be there!"
.
We each grabbed a beer when the limo door closed. It's only a month until our birthday anyway.
Karou leaned back, drank half, then sighed, "I miss sex."
That surprised me enough I choked on mine.
"I mean it, Hika. I know Satoshi's got this whole 'I'm just here to dance' thing going on, but would it really be such a big deal if I picked up a girl in there and brought her back to the limo for some fun?
"You could have had your pick tonight. They were all over us. Practically stripping us in their heads." It's not something I think about a lot, but the fact that Kaoru's had sex and I haven't is one of the biggest differences between us. At least in my head.
"You too, you know. They were panting over both of us. For some of them, it wouldn't have mattered which twin they got."
"And that doesn't bother you?"
"Not really." I gave him a look and he cleared his throat, "Ok, it would if it was real, but I'm just talking about a bit of fun. No strings."
"Well, it's not like it would hurt our reputation."
"We'd have to be careful." He opened the compartment under one of the arm rests and checked it. "We're fully stocked on condoms."
"Only because Kenzo and Seiichi are prepared."
"Yeah, they're prepared because Mom's paranoid."
I finished my beer and opened another. Would it really be that big of a deal to have my first time with some random girl in the back of the limo while it's parked in front of Neon?
The more I thought about it, the more I didn't like it. I want a bed and more time. And a shower after to play around in.
"If you really want to Little Brother, go ahead, but be careful and let me know so we'll bring two limos."
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xXx
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Author's Note:
Had a lot of fun in this chapter. I figured since they're all teens and 20's, that they'd be thinking about sex a lot during a date night.
I set up several things in this chapter that are coming up soon or in the next story. (This one is outlined to end with New Year's.)
I know alphabet dating doesn't work in Japanese – just go with it. I have all five couple's 26 dates in a chart, and you'll hear about most of them and I'll write a couple. It sounded like fun. I can totally picture the entire group staring at Tamaki after he shouted "Arcade starts with 'A'." He can be such a goof.
The part with Haruhi asking Kyoya about renting the park for her party is supposed to show you and the rest of the group just how much she's moved past their past. Dad said it was just what they needed to help everyone move on.
The strip club dinner will be next chapter – can't wait to write it. I'm going for funny with a couple of small incidents. We'll see.
So will the video ads up her profile? Since she doesn't think so, she's forgotten to tell everyone. What will they think when they see them? And how will she be able to resist Kaoru wanting her to do TV ads?
Had a lot of fun writing date night, even though I was writing almost up until posting. Just kept adding small scenes. I will say that writing Neon is getting repetitive, so I'm trying out a couple new ideas and POVs. Hope it's working.
They all have sex on the brain, but the biggest will they or won't they has to be Mori and Haruhi. We all know what's going to happen on Yuki's birthday trip, so their will they is a given. I'm on the fence about Haruhi/Mori. But if it does happen, it will be a while. They just finally got together. They're both right – they aren't ready yet.
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Next Chapter:
Yuki gets a lesson – and not just in photography…a strip club for dinner…Security inspections continue…Haruhi has an interview…And Yuki has a birthday!
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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.