Author's Note:
I'm back. Happy Easter!
I'm sorry it's been so long. Once I stopped, real life took a dive, and I've been crawling myself out of a deep, dark place ever since. But things are looking up, and I'm actually in the mood to write again, so here we are.
Enjoy!
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xXx
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Date Posted: March 30, 2024
Trigger Warnings: Language
The Painful Truth - Chapter 34: Skiing
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Friday, November 11:
Breakfast, Balcony, Haruhi's Room, Shido Ski Lodge:
"How was skiing?"
"How was Seoul?"
I let out a small chuckle at both of our attempts to keep the topic light. Not sure when we'll have our 'talk', but breakfast before I leave for a photoshoot isn't the right time.
Do I tell him about the Go salon? If he brings up security…
"I played at another Go salon. It was so relaxing."
He tensed a bit, but I'm not sure anyone else would have seen it. "Did you win?"
I tried not to look too relieved. "One game. The others were teaching games. I'm learning some new tricks."
"We'll have to play soon."
I took a bite of fish and looked out over the railing. It's truly beautiful here with the mountains and trees covered in snow. The paths around what I'd call a mansion but what they're calling a cabin are all cleared and dry. When I asked how the groundskeepers got them so clean with shovels, I was told they were heated.
Heated sidewalks…
I smiled and waved when Yuki walked by and snapped a picture. "Meet at the front door at 8:30!" I called down to her.
"Will do!"
Turning back to Takashi, I took a sip of tea, "She's been shadowing one of the ad agency's photographers. They keep quiet, but when I hear them, it sounds like she's getting good advice."
"Hn."
"How was skiing?"
"Fine. It feels good to be out in the fresh air doing something active."
He took a deep breath, "Haruhi…"
"I know, Takashi. I know we need to talk." I reached over and squeezed his hand, "How about tonight?"
"Tamaki has big plans for a surprise at a bonfire."
"After. We'll make time."
He gave me a small smile, "Thank you."
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xXx
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Morning, Main Lounge, Shido Ski Cabin:
"Are you sure, Cho-chan?" Honey-kun bit his lip and leaned closer, "Are your knees still bothering you?"
I tried a reassuring smile, but I don't think it worked, "They're fine. I'm just not really in the mood to ski this morning."
"OK," he tried to bounce back, "I can stay here with you. Maybe we could play the hippo game?"
"Well," I slouched a bit in my seat, "I was thinking about asking Haruhi if I could go with her today. Playing with some dogs sounds like fun."
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I pulled back from the door and leaned against the wall before they could see me.
Do I let Cho come to the shoot? Will it interfere with the schedule? We only have so much time and so many shots to get. And the money's tight.
"I think that's a great idea, Cho-chan. Have you talked to Haru-chan about it yet?"
"No…" There was a pause, and I could hear her sigh, "I don't want to intrude. It's her business."
"I'm sure she'd understand. You could stay with the trainers. They can't be using every dog in every shot. You wouldn't even have to be near the photographers."
That's true. We have several set, costume, and dog changes throughout the day. She wouldn't necessarily be in the way.
"Well…"
I peeked around the corner and saw the slight hopeful smile on her face. I can't say no to that. Not after everything she's been through.
I walked in and smiled, "I think it's a great idea."
"Haru-chan?"
"I couldn't help overhearing, and I think it'd be great if you came alone. We have several trainers and groups of dogs, so I know you'll have a couple to play with."
"Do you mean it?"
I haven't seen her eyes light up like that in a while. "Sure."
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xXx
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Morning, Security Check-ins and Radios:
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): "Kasanoda #1, report."
Kasanoda #1 (Head guard at Resort C): "No security risks reported. Ritsu-sama, Shinobu-sama, and the twins are on the half-pipe. Kasanoda security drills and guard vacations proceeding as planned."
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): Thing 1, Thing 2, Flame, and Killer on the half-pipe. "Has Fl…, I mean Ritsu-sama completed a 630 yet?"
Kasanoda #1 (Head Guard at Resort C): "Nope."
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): Bummer. I had him in the betting pool for doing it by today.
"Haninozuka #1, report."
Haninozuka #1 (Head Guard at Resort A – main resort): I'm sitting right next to this guy…
"No security risks."
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): "Confirmed."
Then I leaned over and whispered, "Thanks. Just wanted everyone else to hear that too."
He grunted and nodded back.
"Oura-san, report."
Oura (Satoshi's Detail Head): "Satoshi-sama and Chika-sama racing on the black slopes. No security issues. They haven't been recognized."
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): "Confirmed."
Dancer and Yen racing. I wonder if there's a bet going.
"Thompson-san, report."
Thompson (Haruhi's Detail Head): "No security issues. Photoshoot on schedule.
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): "Confirmed."
And what about Stretch and Cupcake? "Akatsuka-san, report."
Akatsuka (Honey's Detail Head): "Takashi-sama and Mitsukuni-sama have switched to red slopes. No security issues."
Interesting how these two used to be inseparable, but now they both look lost without their girlfriends. It's almost like they don't know what to talk about with each other anymore. It's been mostly business all morning.
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): "Confirmed."
"Shimizu-san, report."
Shimizu (Renge's Detail Head): "Renge-sama joined Tamaki-sama for his lessons. They're both on the easiest beginner's slope here."
I flipped to private, "Hey, Kuroi?"
…
Kurio: "Yeah?"
Shimizu: "I've got some crazy video. I'll upload it later. Suoh-sama can't ski to save his life. Too easily distracted."
Kurio: "How many times has he fallen so far?"
Shimizu: "I don't have the official count. Tabata, his head, has that, but I'm pretty sure we're in the 40s."
Kurio: "Shit. I had 38."
Shimizu: "Well, I have 65, so I'm still in the running."
Kurio: "65? His ass will be black and blue."
Shimizu: "Yeah. I've got the highest number. Figured it was worth a shot."
Kurio: "Anything else I should know?"
Shimizu: "Nope. Signing off."
…
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): That just leaves the Shadow King. Was at a loss for a nickname for him until I heard that that's what the group used to call him. There's a story there, but I'm not sure what it is. I am sure I'll never be important enough to be told.
"Tachibana-san, report."
Tachibana (Kyoya's Detail Head): "In Cabin library working. No security issues."
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): "Confirmed."
Well, that finishes the 10:00 am check in. Now just to wait around until something happens or 11:00…
Oura (Satoshi's Detail Head): "This is Oura. We have a guard down with injury. No security incident. Repeat…no security incident."
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): Shit. "What happened?"
Oura (Satoshi's Detail Head): "One of our follow guards fell. Looks like his knee. Medical on site already."
Kuroi (Logistical Tracking Guard): "Who?"
Oura (Satoshi's Detail Head): "Can't remember his name. He's one from the Suoh family, but not one of the regular detail. He said he knew how to ski…"
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xXx
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Morning, Petto Chinmi Photoshoot, Commoner Ski Resort:
"Where'd you take that?" I asked the little mousy girl that Fujioka-sama brought along again. She was showing me some pictures she'd taken recently. "That looks like Tokyo Bay."
"It is. It was a warehouse fire just a couple days ago. It was just luck that we were there to catch it."
"We?"
"Jigoku-san and I." Her whole face flamed red. I recognize that name. "He's giving me private photography lessons. We were supposed to be taking pictures of the pollution in the bay when the fire just happened."
"Damn. Did you try to sell that one? It's a great angle."
"Oh no," she shook her head, and her face got even redder if that's even possible. "It's not good enough for that. He sold some of his."
"Well, I think it's just as good as any I've seen in the paper."
"Really?"
"Yeah. Too bad it was a couple days ago. The papers wouldn't want it now, it's old news."
"Oh."
I may not be a nationally known environmental photographer, but I know a good picture when I see one. The papers would have totally bought that one. My bet is he didn't want to compete with his student.
"How are the lessons going?"
"Just great," her entire face lit up. "He's helped me pick out better equipment and showed me how he reviews his pictures and his digital organization process. It's been so incredible. I feel like I've learned so much in just a couple of lessons."
"Good, because I've heard he can be kind of a jerk."
"Really?" Her eyes grew huge as she stared at me, "He's never been anything but nice to me."
Wonder what she's paying him? It's gotta be huge for private lessons with that guy.
"This way, Fujioka-sama. We're all set up over here by the sleigh."
This time they have her dressed in a cute maroon snow suit and grouped with six huskies.
"Back to work."
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The sleigh was horse-drawn, and the photographers were riding in a jeep pacing it for the pictures. There wasn't room for me, so I thought I'd check on Cho.
"Ready? Fetch!" and she threw the ball waaay out into a snowbank and four…no five akitas took off running.
"What is that?"
"It's like a slingshot thing. There's no way I could throw that far without it."
She's laughing! And her cheeks are so rosy. I snapped a quick picture.
"Stop," she giggled and covered her face. "I didn't even do my hair this morning."
"Doesn't matter. You look so cute in that snowsuit."
We've all been so worried about her, but she almost looks like the old Cho all bundled up in pink with that silly grin waiting as the dogs come running back, the lead one with the ball. Coming over this morning was definitely a good idea.
"Wanna throw it for them?"
"Nope." I held up my camera, "Just keep going. I'll take pictures."
She must have tossed that ball a hundred times, and those dogs never wore out. I tried being artistic with the shots. Some of their feet as they churned up the snow. Their teeth holding the ball.
Who knows? There might be a good shot or two in there somewhere.
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I'd just finished a wardrobe change when someone knocked on the dressing room door, "Fujioka-sama?"
"Come in."
Gorou-san opened the door and held out her phone, "Tanaki-sama and Sato-san are on the phone for you."
Haruhi: "Good morning, Tanaki-san, Sato-san. Your timing's perfect. I'm waiting for the next set to be ready."
Tanaki (Associate Executive Director): "We have excellent news, Fujioka-sama. We just got off the phone with the Seoul lawyers. The factory owners have offered a new settlement."
Sato (Lawyer): "I'm emailing you a copy now, but the highlights are everything you were hoping for. Guess they saw the writing on the wall with the first conviction and are scrambling to keep from losing everything."
I went through the terms carefully. Court costs paid plus more for future court costs and more for our other economic losses. Loss of income costs for the dip in our profits when the story hit the news and damages done to our brand. And the biggest…punitive. They basically are giving us the factory.
Haruhi: "What about them taking responsibility?"
Sato (Lawyer): "They are willing to take responsibility up to a certain point with the wording to be worked out between the lawyers."
Haruhi: "What's the timeline?"
Sato (Lawyer): "They want it done as soon as possible, assuming it will only get worse for them."
Haruhi: I pulled up my calendar. "I can miss classes Monday, but only if it's worth going. That means that the language is hammered out and they come with a check. I'm only doing this if this is the end of it, and Petto Chinmi gets everything it deserves."
Sato (Lawyer): "I'll fly back today and start working with them. We should have everything worked out over the weekend and you'll just have to finalize it.
Haruhi: "Perfect. Thank you, Sato-san. Tanaki-san and I will fly in on Monday, sign the papers, and you can fly back with us. Security will insist on the Morinozuka jet. We won't be staying overnight."
Finally. We're going to get justice.
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xXx
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Late Morning, Library, Shido Ski Cabin:
"I'll be in Beijing sometime in late January to sign the completed merger contracts."
…
"Zaijian [Goodbye in Chinese]."
I hung up and leaned back in my chair.
Another coup for the Ootori Conglomeration. And yet another opportunity Yoshio squandered. It's lucky we were still in the black when I took over.
Of course, that was only because of all his illegal dealings. I'm just about out from under all of them and making money the old-fashioned way…by earning it.
I stood and crossed the room to pour another cup of coffee. There's too much proprietary information in here to call for a maid, so I had a carafe delivered when I started.
When I brought the cup back to the desk, I couldn't sit. I paced to the window, looked out at the grounds. Paced to the opposite side, looked out at the mountains.
Where is this nervous energy coming from? I'm an Ootori, dammit. I don't pace. I should be able to direct my laser focus on a project and not be distracted.
It's because I'm here with all of them.
It must be.
To a degree, I've always been the odd man out, but here it is the extreme. Hikaru won't even acknowledge my existence. Mori's barely polite. Honey seems resigned to my presence but isn't friendly. Kaoru's ignoring me for his brother's sake. I'm not sure how he'd be if Hikaru wasn't around. And Tamaki…he's the only one treating me like he did before, and it's even more awkward than being ignored.
The six of us started that host club. When we did, we were a team. Or as much of a team as the twins could be part of before they met Haruhi. The parties, the cosplays. We were in it together. We were in it to make it work.
And then Haruhi came and brought us all together in ways we never expected. She showed each of us a side of ourselves we didn't know we had.
She made us all better men.
Until I fucked it up.
Or maybe I'm still a work in progress. She said I'm not the person I was when I hurt her. She said I've grown past that.
There's a part of me that wants to be back with that group so badly I can't breathe sometimes. To be part of that team. To be friends with all of them. Chika, Satoshi, Cho, Shinobu, Ritsu, Yuki. All of them.
But I don't know how to make that happen.
My business approaches won't work. There's no negotiation, no hostile takeover. These are people, not businesses. Not rivals.
Maybe I moved back to Tokyo too soon.
If I hadn't, would Keiko still be alive?
"Fuck."
I sat back down and pulled the black folder out of my briefcase. Ten. I've narrowed down my possible brides to ten. I feel sorry for the winner…loser.
Shoving it back, I shook my head. I'll wait until Fuyumi's baby is born. If it's a girl, I'll get serious about an arranged marriage. Asking Sota-kun to be both the Ootori heir and the Shido heir is just too much. He's fine as a backup, but the Conglomerate needs some stability.
If it's a boy, he's my new heir.
Then maybe I'll start dating like a playboy.
Can you imagine what the upper crust of Japan would do if I started dating a different starlet every night? Was seen with actresses, models, and any other vapid blond I could find?
The stock would take such a hit…
Focusing back on my email, I saw a new one from Ono-san.
Shit. He wants to hold another winter ball fundraiser event because last year's was so successful.
It should have been my engagement party, but instead, someone leaked that I owned the Conglomeration and Haruhi threw my offer in my face.
But by all means, let's have another one.
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xXx
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Afternoon, Ski Slopes, Resort A:
"Honey-kun!"
"Cho-chan!"
And they skied right into each other and fell over.
"I feel like I'm reading a shojo manga," Satoshi whispered at me. I had to agree.
"Hey! Alien!" He looked over at me with a huge, goofy grin. "Help her up. You're blocking the lift." That got them scrambling. Takashi lifted them both up and set them on their feet.
"How'd you find us, Cho-chan?"
"Yeah, I thought you were watching Haruhi's photoshoot."
"The dogs were fun but," she blushed, "I missed you, Honey-kun." Then she kissed his cheek. "I asked security where you were."
"You made it just in time. We were just deciding the stakes for the race."
Those dogs must have helped, because she lined up down the hill and just before she pushed off, she shouted, "Last one down has to bake Honey-kun a cake!"
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xXx
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Afternoon, Ice skating Rink, Resort B:
This is ridiculous.
He hired the rink out for the afternoon and hired me as an instructor. Said his fiancée always wanted to learn to ice skate.
So, instead of listening to me, what are they doing…
"Tamaki-kun! Stop! That tickles!"
"I can't help it, my darling Renge-chan. Your little dress is so cute."
"You did an amazing job picking it out."
"Well," he lowered his voice, and I had to strain to hear, "Maman helped."
Could these two be any sickeningly sweeter?
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It really is a darling dress. Rose red with sequins, just like a real ice skater would wear.
I tried to spin and give him a view of my butt. And wound up on it.
"Renge-chan! Are you alright!"
I laughed at his wrinkled brow and pale face. "I'm fine. It's so different from roller skating," I mumbled as he helped me up.
Next thing I know, warm lips connected with mine, and I opened my mouth to run my tongue over them.
"Hmmmm…"
Not sure how much learning is going to happen, but who cares?
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xXx
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Afternoon, Bunny Slopes, Commoner Ski Resort (Not where the photoshoot is):
"That's four," Kenzo grumbled as he showed me his phone.
Fucking Twitter. "Well, we knew it would be bad when they suggested it."
"Still," and he almost growled when it chimed again. "Five."
"Now that they've been spotted and tagged, it will be a game for the fangirls. See who can find them now."
He rolled his eyes, and we both got ready to get off the lift. The twins were on the chairs in front of us, also on their phones. They better not be thinking about replying.
Kenzo and I've been their detail heads for over a decade. You think we'd be used to their antics. When they said they wanted to see how the commoners skied, we should have told them no. Didn't make us feel any better about the whole thing when we heard them plotting in the back of the limo about seeing if they could pick up some girls.
At least that just means some making out behind a tree or something and not them trying to bring them back to the Shido Cabin. That we wouldn't allow.
"Come on, you guys," Kaoru-sama waved at us. "Maybe we can find someone for you."
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"Let's do this slope again."
"Whatever." I followed Kaoru over to the lift and we hopped on the chairs.
"What's gotten into you? That one in the yellow was practically undressing you with her eyes."
"I guess." Then I looked over at him and huffed, "She didn't even know which one of us I am."
"So?"
"I don't know," I shrugged. "Guess I'm spoiled."
"Yeah, I get it. Not only can Haruhi always tell, but the rest of them are learning."
"Yeah, Shinobu gets it right almost all the time."
"So does Chika, but he doesn't let on."
"At least we know the Boss will never figure it out."
"Speaking of the Boss and sex…"
I choked on air, "We were not 'speaking of the Boss and sex'."
"I know, but I gotta ask. Do you think he'll get over himself and all that over romanticizing he does and actually be able to have sex on their wedding night?"
"I don't know why you care, but I'm not worried. Renge will take care of it. There's no way she'll stand for a quiet night."
Karou snorted, "Too true."
"And what about Honey and Cho? If there ever was a candidate for finally getting around to it by their tenth wedding anniversary, it'd be them."
"Remember the party at our place?"
"Yeah?"
"We'll just make sure there's a bucket of wedding cake frosting over the door of the honeymoon suite. Once it dumps on them as they walk in, they won't be able to keep their hands off each other."
"Perfect."
The lift was almost back to the top, so we got ready to glide off.
"How about we fake a fall this time down. I'm sure a couple of girls would love to ski over and see if we're alright."
"You're on, Little Brother. But we better make sure Kenzo and Seiichi know first, or they'll order a helicopter or some shit."
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xXx
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Afternoon, Twitter:
Random Account #1: Get over to the bunny slopes at #NaganoPeakResort the #HitachiinTwins are skiing with the regular people. And they are sooooo cute [picture of the twins, obviously posing]
Random Account #2: Look at me! I'm in a #HitachiinTwin sandwich [pick of girl in the middle with the twins on either side with their arms around her]
Random Account #3: Just one resort over, #FujiokaHaruhi is doing a photoshoot with lots of dogs! Must be for #PettoChinmi Aren't they cute? [pic of Haruhi in a sleigh with several huskies, jeep with photographer in the background.]
Response to Random Account #3: that was this morning. She's building snowmen with akitas now [pic of Haruhi trying to put a carrot on a snowman and the dogs trying to get it. Security guard in the foreground walking towards the poster]
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xXx
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Late Dinner, Bonfire, Shido Ski Cabin:
Knock…knock
No answer. I know Haruhi made it back. She can't think I won't check with security to make sure she got here safely. Can she?
She must already be down at the fire.
As I headed toward the stairs, I saw Chika's door open at the end of the hall and Haruhi step out. "I'm here whenever you want to talk. No matter what."
Then she hugged him.
She must not have realized I was there because she jumped a bit when she turned around and saw me. Then her face lit up and she smiled, "There you are. We were just headed down to the fire."
I quickly studied hers and Chika's faces. They didn't avoid my eyes. They didn't look flustered. Doesn't look like something's wrong.
"I'm headed that way myself."
I wonder what they were talking about.
.
"But Kyoya, you have to come. It's a bonfire!"
"I know what a bonfire is, Tamaki. Do you really think I'll be welcomed?"
"Yes."
I raised a brow and stared at him until he swallowed hard, "Yes, I do. At least by half."
"And do you make it a point of going places where only half the people want you there?"
"Now you're just being childish."
"This whole conversation is childish."
"Then end it and come to dinner. I have a surprise."
"You realize that makes it less appealing, right?"
Just then, Renge came up and threaded her arm through Tamaki's. "Come on." She glared at me, "Both of you." Then she lowered her voice, "You can't keep using work as an excuse and Cho and Yuki have no idea what happened. Besides, Haruhi wanted you on this trip."
She tugged Tamaki along, and I followed behind. I'll probably end up leaving early.
.
"This isn't really a bonfire, Tamaki-kun."
"It's not?"
"No, more like a campfire. Bonfires are huge. We wouldn't be able to sit around one and talk."
"Oh. Well then, this is much better."
"Definitely."
I looked around at my wonderful group of friends. My second family. Everyone's here! Even Kyoya!
The staff really did an excellent job setting up this fire. They dug out the pit and put comfy sofas all around it covered in fluffy blankets and pillows. We're all bundled up, but the fire really is keeping the cold at bay. Everyone's got a plate piled high. We went with easy to eat American picnic finger foods. Chika's on his third corndog already.
"Is everyone ready for the surprise?"
"Doubt if I ever will be, Boss, but lay it on us."
"Ah, Tamaki?"
"Yes, Ritsu?"
"I saw what it was and none of us are near drunk enough yet. Let's do it last."
"But…"
He held up his hand to stop me, "Trust me. It will be better that way."
"As long as you aren't just trying to get out of it."
"Oh no," he smiled. It's a scary smile. "I want to see everyone try."
"Alright, then what should we do now?"
Haruhi cleared her throat, "Actually…"
"Yes, my darling friend?"
"Well, I knew we'd be around a fire at some point on this trip, so I looked up some games on my flight from Seoul. I know we've played several, but I found a new one. 'Would you rather'."
"Never heard of it."
"I'm sure you'll be able to get into the spirit of it, Tamaki. It goes around the circle, with each person asking a question that everyone has to answer. The question starts "would you rather…" then you add something like have a knife when you need a spoon or a spoon when you need a knife."
One of the twins rolled his eyes, "That's pretty stupid, Haruhi."
"I know. It's an example. You can ask anything. When you answer, you don't have to explain why, but you can if you want."
"Lame," the other twin mumbled under his breath.
"Oh, I think I've got one," Yuki spoke up.
"Then we'll start with you." When the first twin growled again, Haruhi turned on him, "Don't be such a spoil sport, Hikaru. Let's go around once and if you hate it, you come up with something better."
"Truth or…"
"Not truth or dare."
"You're no fun, Haruhi."
"Whatever," and she waived Yuki on to start.
"Would you rather be bitten by a vampire or a werewolf?"
Cho turned and stared, "Where did you come up with that?"
Yuki's face turned pinker than the fire'd already made it. "Just came to me."
"So does that mean you'd be turned into a vampire or a werewolf?"
"I guess."
She turned to Shinobu on her left, and she smirked, "Well, since I'm already basically a feral animal for a week out of a month, I guess a werewolf wouldn't be that bad."
"Hey! Crazy chick! You're already bad enough."
"Watch it, Mr. Himura, or you'll be sleeping on the sofa."
"Guess I better say werewolf too, so we could terrorize the countryside together."
"Now you're thinking."
.
While they were going around the circle, everyone else choosing vampires – wimps – I pulled out my phone and Googled for some questions. Figured the best thing would be to find one I want to hear Ritsu's answer for, so I found a list for couples.
"Would you rather outlive your significant other or have them outlive you?"
"That's deep, Bu."
"Occupational hazard, Asshole. Answer the question."
He just put on a shit-eating grin and said, "I'll outlive you since I know you can't live a day without me."
"You're not going to take it seriously?"
"Nope. As you said, occupational hazard. I spend a lot of time trying not to think about what will happen if one of us dies."
His eyes looked faraway, and I realized he was thinking about the kidnapping. Shit.
"Fine. I'll give you a pass."
I looked around and saw the couples in the group looking at each other. Honey looked petrified, then I saw Cho's face. Keiko!
I'm a fucking idiot.
"OK, forget I said it. I'll come up with another." I looked down at the list and picked the next one without reading it first, "Would you rather date someone who likes to go out every night or someone who likes to stay home every night."
"Much better, Bu," he mumbled then spoke up, "Depends. We going out every night to a love hotel?"
"Just answer the question, Asshole."
"Stay in," he smirked and waggled his eyebrows.
Honey and Cho looked at each other and both said "Stay in."
The twins surprised none of us and chose going out. Haruhi and Mori picked staying in. So did Chika.
"Going out, of course. If they aren't down for Neon, then we're not dating," Satoshi grinned and ate another fried mushroom.
"Go out."
"Stay in."
"Oops, Boss. Who's Renge going out with if you're staying in?"
"You want to go out?"
"You want to stay in?"
"Well, we have a theater and a game room and the best chef. Why would we need to go out?"
"Well, I can stay in with you, Tamaki-kun."
He leaned over and kissed her, and Hikaru threw a napkin at them.
"Stay in," Kyoya mumbled and turned quickly to Yuki. She also said stay in.
"Your turn, Asshole."
"Fine." He grabbed my phone and scrolled up away from the couples' questions. "Would you rather lose your sense of smell or your sense of taste?"
.
Three really stupid questions later and it was my turn. "Would you rather keep playing this game or play truth or dare?"
"Hikaru!"
"I'm sorry, Haruhi, but this is stupid."
"Actually," Chika slowly met her eyes, "I have to agree, but," he continued quickly, "I don't want to play truth or dare."
I looked around the group and several looked like they agree with me.
"Fine," she huffed. "It's not like I really care. It was just a suggestion."
"So, if not truth or dare, what next?"
"I have a couple others."
"Pick the least stupid one," I suggested as I headed back for more food. Those mac and cheese balls were way better than they really should be.
"OK, how about two truths and a lie."
Satoshi perked up, "I know that one. You tell everyone three things about you. Two are the truth and one you made up, and they have to guess which one's the lie."
"Yup."
"OK," I sat back down and opened a beer, "I'll go first this time."
"Go ahead."
I must have stared at the fire for a minute or two and came up blank. "Shit. I can't think of anything."
.
Everyone laughed. Even me.
For brief moments, it's like nothing's changed. Like it's over a year ago and all that shit didn't happen.
"Well, fuck, Hikaru. If we're not drunk enough for Tamaki's surprise and you can't think of a game, what are we going to do?"
He hoisted his beer and drank half in one go, "Get drunk, I guess."
That's when Renge pulled out her tablet, "Got a better idea. Haruhi's and Shinobu's interview came out in that teen magazine today. Let's see how they treated them."
I'd already read it, and judging from the comments going around the fire, almost everyone else did too. I had been expecting a hatchet job on Shinobu, but they ended up glamorizing the yakuza connection instead. Guess Renge hadn't gotten to it yet.
"I saw it already," Shinobu waved it off. "Made me sound like some kind of hero or something."
"At least it's over," Haruhi mumbled as she looked over at Mori's phone. He'd pulled it up as well.
"Yeah, but you have that big interview coming up in their magazine next month."
"Don't remind me."
Kaoru perked up, "We should have a big PR meeting and make sure you have the talking points for Every Woman and the new models."
"Talk to my agent."
Renge looked up at Shinobu, "Did you see this footnote?"
"Yeah. They called wanting me to confirm it. I did under specific conditions. They honored them."
"What's it say?"
Renge cleared her throat and read out loud, "The Chiba Syndicate was surrendered to Himura Shinobu in reparations for the actions of the heir, Daiju. It has since been renamed the Shiraishi Syndicate with Himura Shinobu as its head, the first woman to ever lead a yakuza syndicate. The Shiraishi, Himura, and Kasanoda Syndicates have nothing to do with human trafficking and never will."
"Well said."
"Yeah. That last sentence was my condition. I wanted it clear that the three don't touch that shit."
Ritsu put his arm around her and pulled her tight, "You did good, Bu."
"Thanks."
Tamaki turned and waved a couple of maids over, "OK, everyone. Time for smores!"
"That's your surprise?"
"Nope, just dessert."
.
I miss Akito-kun.
Mori's over there feeding Haruhi burnt marshmallows. Honey's putting one halfway in his mouth and feeding Cho the other and getting a kiss every time. Tamaki and Renge are all cuddled up feeding each other smores that Satoshi is making for them. And I'm hoping the fire is covering my blush at what Ritsu is telling Shinobu he wants to do to her with the melted chocolate.
My birthday trip can't come soon enough.
I've got to do something to break up this love-fest. "Haruhi? Do you have any more games?"
Both twins groaned, but she nodded. "One more. I'm not sure it's any good."
"Hasn't stopped you yet."
"Oh, be quiet, Hikaru."
"What is it?"
"It's called 'Fortunately and Unfortunately'."
"Never heard of it."
"You go around in a circle and tell a story. The first person starts with 'fortunately'. Like 'fortunately I found a lottery ticket.' Then the next person has to start with unfortunately. So unfortunately, it was expired. And it goes on from there."
Hikaru smirked and turned to Haruhi on his left, "I'll start. Fortunately, there's beer at this campfire."
"Unfortunately," she reached over and took his bottle, "you aren't old enough to drink it."
"Fortunately," Mori smiled and took the bottle, "I am."
"Unfortunately," Chika grabbed it and poured out the little bit that was left, "the bottle spilt."
"Fortunately," Satoshi reached behind him and pulled out a new one, "there's always more beer."
"Unfortunately, I don't like beer," Renge smirked.
"Fortunately," Tamaki handed her a bottle of tea, "there are alternatives."
"Unfortunately, there's no sake," Kyoya looked down at his half-finished beer.
"Fortunately," I opened a can of milk tea, "I don't like sake."
"Unfortunately," Shinobu tossed her empty beer bottle behind her, "mine's empty."
"Fortunately," Ritsu pulled out a bottle, "I remembered to bring the sake."
"Unfortunately," Honey frowned, "all I want is a milkshake."
"Fortunately," Cho leaned over and kissed him, "my kisses are just as sweet."
"Unfortunately," Kaoru put on a huge pout, "Cho's kisses aren't for me."
"Fortunately, that's the end," Hikaru grinned.
Haruhi burst out laughing and the rest of us joined. "Guess that was a flop too."
Ritsu turned to Tamaki, "It's now or never. I'm getting tired."
"Really?"
"Yep. Get it out."
"Alright, everyone." Tamaki waived over a couple of groundkeepers who brought over a machine, a microphone, and two speakers. "Karaoke!"
.
xXx
.
Night, Mori's Room, Shido Ski Cabin:
And here we are again, sitting together, waiting for the other one to speak.
"This is a serious conversation, Takashi, but it isn't a bad one. OK?"
"Hn."
She sighed and leaned back into the sofa. "You've apologized for the driving incident and promised to not interfere with my security again." I nodded. "I've been thinking of ways to make that easier."
When I started to speak, she waived me off, "I don't want to forbid you from talking to Thompson-san or my team. That's ridiculous. However, you should keep out of any official meetings, like my weekly team meeting. And you shouldn't be part of their planning unless they come to you."
"I can do that." I already promised myself I would.
"I also was thinking about a code word."
"Code word?"
"Yes. Something that sounds benign, that I can use in general conversations to tell you I think you're either breaking my boundaries or getting close. Something that will give you a chance to stop and think about what you're doing before you go too far."
Interesting. "Like a warning?"
"Yes, but a kind warning created because I know this is difficult and you do really just want me to be safe even if it isn't your job." She said it with a gentle smile.
The idea has merit. Some things I do I do unconsciously, without even realizing I'm near that boundary. Until I learn, have more practice, this is a good way of her showing me without her getting angry. "Can you give me an example?"
"Well," she paused and tilted her head trying to think of one. A moment later, she started again, "You know I went to a couple of Go salons in Seoul, and I thank you for not saying anything. If you had said something like 'Are you sure you should have made such an unscheduled stop?', then I would have used the code word to let you know that my security is in charge of deciding if my requested stops are problematic or not."
"Or if I'd asked if Thompson-san had checked them first before you went in?"
"Yes. Pretty much any question about security procedures, especially after the fact."
"But sometimes it could be beneficial for us to discuss procedures either before or after for things we do together."
"True. We both just must remember that Thompson-san and Nagata-san are in charge."
I reached out and took her hands, "I want to do this, Haruhi. I want to make this work. I want to respect your wishes. But I also want you safe."
"That's why I'm suggesting this code word or phrase. It will help temper your instincts and show you where my concerns are."
"Do you know what word you want to use?"
Her head tilted to the side, "No. Everything I come up with sounds stupid like elephant or roses."
"How about Mexico or Mexican, like 'how about Mexican for dinner tonight'?"
"That should work. But," she narrowed her eyes and stared into mine, "If you do something again like what you did in that car, there will be no code word. You will have broken my trust beyond repair. Understand?"
I took a deep breath and thought about how I've loved her for years, how I never want to lose her, how she, my parents, and the security officers are right.
"I understand. I won't do anything like that again."
"Thank you, Takashi."
"You're welcome."
I love you.
.
About a half an hour later we were curled up together on the sofa, my head on his chest.
This is so perfect. Just the two of us here together.
We'd talked a little about a partnership and what it means to each of us, but decided to shelve that conversation until we had more experience in our relationship. We promised to point out examples as we lived them.
I told him about the photoshoot and the piggy dogs. How I had to run through the snow with a bag of treats to keep them from tackling me. Then, of course, they did because I was a lumbering walrus in snow boots. I think the ad agency has decided to do a shot like that for every season. The sleigh ride was fun. I could tell the dogs hadn't seen horses before.
He told me about skiing and his classes. His plans to expand the sporting goods stores into more rural areas as smaller stores and internet pickup sites. We talked about his new assistant Eto-san and his wife and toddler. I still haven't met them yet. Hopefully soon.
"So, your mother was talking to me about social events."
Is it my imagination, or could I hear the smile and the brow quirk?
"She mentioned that we both get hundreds of invitations a month to all kinds of crazy social things, but that I really should take a few of them seriously."
"She talked to you after that tea?"
"Yeah," I sighed and snuggled closer. "I really didn't want to go, but it wasn't that bad. No worse than a host club event."
"Going to more social events will raise your profile."
"I know."
"I don't want this to be the first time you use your code, but please remember to talk to Thompson-san about any of them first."
"It's a valid point. One I thought of already. But not code word worthy…yet."
"Then I'll stop while I'm ahead."
"How do I even know which ones I should consider?"
His chest rose and fell as he took a deep breath, then his hand came up and started combing through my hair. "You have a team to help with that. Start with Honami-san. If she isn't already, have her create a list or calendar with all the events you're invited to. Then she can share it with Eto-san, Aoi-san, Mother, your agent, the PR departments at Every Woman and Petto Chinmi, and security. Your agent and the PR departments can go through and flag any that look promising, and you can make the final decision. Once that's done, your assistant and security will be able to make arrangements."
"I guess that could work."
"I'll have Eto-san do the same with all of mine and share the calendar out. Any we're both invited to we can decide together. Or just one of us can go depending on what it is and how it works with our businesses."
"We better share them with the PR department at On Okuri too." I reached up and pinched the bridge of my nose, "Probably should get everyone else in the group to do the same. Depending on the function, we might want to present a united front as the On Okuri board."
"Now you're thinking like an elite Japanese businesswoman."
"Whatever."
I took a deep breath and relaxed as I inhaled his cologne. It's woodsy and fresh and so him. Leaning my head back, I realized I could just stretch a little and kiss his neck…
.
Scorching lips touched the underside of my jaw. Instant goo.
"Haruhi?"
"We're done talking."
.
xXx
.
Saturday, November 12:
Breakfast, Dining Room, Shido Ski Cabin:
"Yuki-chan! Uncle Kyoya!"
I just managed to put my coffee down before the small blur charging through the door barreled into me. "Sota-kun! What are you doing here?"
"We thought we'd join you for the day," Umeji smiled as he came in the room followed by…
"Akito-kun!" Yuki ran at him like a gazelle, and he pulled her tight in his arms.
"Miss me?"
"Definitely."
"I'm only here for a few hours, but I wanted to see you."
She looked up at him through her lashes, and I had to strain to hear her, "Kiss me." And he did.
Ignoring the twinge in my stomach, I turned back to Sota-kun, "Do you know how to ski?"
"Nope. Dad said I can go on an inner tube!"
.
xXx
.
Morning, Driving to Petto Chinmi Photoshoot, Commoner Ski Resort:
How embarrassing.
Not only did I forget to set my alarm, but I fell asleep in Takashi's room.
Sure, we were on his sofa. Yes, we still had all our clothes on. But when Thompson-san knocked looking for me it was still embarrassing.
I didn't even look at either of them as a ducked out the door and ran for my room to change. Good thing they're doing my hair and makeup, because I barely had time to dry off and toss on some sweats.
At least there will be catering at the shoot. This power bar isn't cutting it.
"You don't need to be embarrassed, Haruhi-sama."
I looked up at Thompson-san sitting across from me in the back of the limo. Yes…limo. The Shido cabin needed their SUVs for the skiing equipment, so I'm stuck in this monstrosity. He's in the back with me this morning instead of Ebisu to keep me from opening the door myself. It's still a habit I haven't broken.
I suppose I don't. It's not like he caught us in bed or something, although Takashi didn't have a shirt on. But I still felt my face heat up again. "I guess I'm more embarrassed about forgetting my alarm." I held up my phone, "I've already set it for tomorrow morning."
His lips curved into a small smile, and he took a breath to say something, but tilted his head and put his hand to his ear instead.
.
Radio Report:
Security on site: "There must be fifty people here with more gathering every minute."
Thompson: "Must have seen the social media yesterday and had the day off. It is the weekend."
Security on site: "At this rate, I'm not sure we can keep the sets closed."
Thompson: "I'm sure the resort doesn't want them there. We might have to get the local police involved."
Security on site: "I'll check with the resort security head. How far out are you?"
Thompson: "Ten minutes. We'll be coming in through the parking garage."
Security on site: "Acknowledged."
.
"How bad is it?" Her eyes were huge, and she kept spinning her ring.
"There's about fifty people hanging around the current setup."
"Fifty?" It came out as a gasp.
"Yes, and more arriving every minute."
I watched her lean back in her seat and stare at the roof. "I hate social media."
"Me, too."
That got a chuckle. "What do we do?"
"Morinozuka security will work with hotel security to keep them at bay. We'll bring in local police if we need to have them removed."
"Let me call Garou-san and see what she thinks."
.
xXx
.
Morning, Yuki's Room, Shido Ski Cabin:
"Are you sure you don't mind not skiing?"
I wasn't surprised when she told me she didn't enjoy skiing. Not everyone likes it. What concerned me was how worried she was to tell me.
"I'm sure." I pulled her closer and took her face in my hands, "Yuki-chan, it's no big deal if you don't like skiing. I don't expect you to enjoy everything I do, and," I kissed her quick on the lips, "it's not even on my list of favorite things to do."
"Really?"
"Really," and I kissed her again. This time lingering to enjoy myself.
.
When he pulled away and looked down at me, my face flamed red. One of the cards from that game passed through my mind. One of the tamer ones. One that I'd actually like to try.
"Are you alright?"
"Un huh," I nodded and turned away. I can't wait for my birthday trip. It's less than two weeks away.
I pulled away and headed for my laptop, "Do you want to see pictures of everyone skiing?"
"Your pictures? Definitely."
.
xXx
.
Morning, Easy Slope, Resort A:
For someone so athletic, Tamaki-kun really can't ski.
He'd fallen twice on our first run on the beginner slope.
"Renge-sama?" Shimizu, my detail head, waved me over, and I skied up to her. "Perhaps the innertubes? The Shido's and Kyoya-sama are headed over there."
"Whoops!" I looked over my shoulder and saw Tamaki-kun on his butt again.
"Great idea."
.
xXx
.
Morning, Innertube Slopes, Resort A:
"WEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeee!"
Damn, my son can scream.
"Hold on tight!" I called back as we barreled down the mountain on an innertube.
When we got to the bottom, Kyoya was waiting. "I wanna ride with Uncle Kyoya!" Sota started running around circling both of us. "Please!"
"Sure thing, Kiddo," Kyoya reached out and took his hand. "Let's go."
.
After over a dozen runs, Sota finally admitted he was cold.
Sitting around a table in the nearby café, I made sure he was focused on his hot cholate then turned to Umeji, "So why are you really here?"
Leaning back in his chair, he heaved a big sigh, "Had to get away from Fuyumi for a bit. She's really tired and achy, and Sota doesn't always understand she needs to rest. He also missed Yuki-chan and you. Bringing him here solves all of it."
"Is everything alright with the pregnancy?"
I must have let some worry show through in my eyes, because he gave me a reassuring smile, "It's fine. This is just how it is towards the end. Her doctor's satisfied, so there's nothing to worry about. Gotta remember, she's building a whole new human in there."
A whole new human.
A baby.
I watched a smile come over him as he thought about his growing child. The love on his face… Would I ever feel that?
Will my arranged wife want me involved in the pregnancy? Going to doctor's appointments? Hearing the heartbeat? In the delivery room?
A mug slamming on the table jerked me out of my head. "I'm done, Uncle Kyoya. Can we go on the innertubes again?"
"Of course."
.
xXx
.
Morning, Yuki's Room, Shido Ski Cabin:
"I didn't realize you were that close to the fire," I mumbled as Yuki-chan flipped through several photos.
"Telephoto lens." A couple more clicks then a picture came up showing the fire much further away. "This is with my regular lens. Numata-san kept me safe."
Good. That distance is much more reasonable. She shouldn't be putting herself in danger for pictures. That's just ridiculous.
"Do you know what you'll be doing for your next lesson?"
"Not yet. It's Tuesday afternoon. Jigoku-san will let me know where."
She flipped through more pictures of the fire before getting to the farmer's market. A much safer location.
As she talked about the hand study she did, I couldn't help my eyes from wandering from the pictures to her face. So bright and happy. A huge, genuine smile, her eyes sparkling. So glad the photographer offered her lessons. I've been so busy this semester, I didn't want her to feel neglected.
"Oh," my eyes tracked back to her laptop screen, "here are some of the dogs from yesterday. They were so cute…"
.
xXx
.
Morning, Innertube Slopes, Resort A:
After a few more runs on the innertube, I could tell Kyoya was reaching his limit, so I took over.
"Come on, Sota. Ride down a couple times with your dad."
"OK."
Something must really be wrong. Kyoya doesn't just look tired. He looks angry. It can't be at Sota.
Maybe it's something to do with the business?
.
If I hadn't fucked up, this could be me and Haruhi in a few years playing with our son.
If I hadn't left her unprotected, this could be me and Keiko in a few years playing with our son.
What if my future arranged wife turns my son against me?
What if neither of them want anything to do with me?
I'm such an idiot.
Not even twenty, and I've ruined my life.
.
xXx
.
Late Morning, Kasanoda Security Offices:
I might have agreed to this entire security review in theory, but it's a vastly fucking different thing when I've got outside security experts on my compound. Doesn't matter if I'm paying the bills. Doesn't matter if they signed Ootori's and my non-disclosure agreements. Doesn't matter if it's about my daughter-in-law's safety.
It just feels fucking weird.
At least they assigned Herbert-san as point. He used to work private security for a South African company. We all know that means private militia. He's got the grayest background of all the consultants.
I grabbed hold and ran the meeting with an iron fist. As the head of the biggest syndicate in Japan, it's what they're expecting anyway.
"You all have been designated 'clean' on this compound. That means there will be no discussion of our business in your presence. None of my people will answer any questions regarding our business. You're here to check over the compound for outside security risks. If something comes up and you feel you need to ask a business question, go directly to either Fujii or me. No one else is authorized to answer them."
"Understood, Kasanoda-sama," Herbert-san nodded. "Our responsibility here is to simply inspect for holes in security. Nothing more."
"Excellent," I gave him my signature glare, "then here shouldn't be any problems." Leaning back in my seat, I waived at my security head, "Fujii will run through the logistics."
"Thank you, Kasanoda-sama. You've all signed our additional NDA, so we can get started. I've assigned a senior guard to each of you to escort you through the compound. You are not permitted to touch any security equipment but can ask for it to be demonstrated. As Kasanoda-sama stated, any questions that pertain to our business must be brought to me for resolution. He or I will determine if you knowing the answer is necessary."
.
I listened to Fujii-san go on and on about how we were to comport ourselves while on the compound and was damn glad I was put in charge of this. None of the others would give them the respect they deserved during this inspection.
I only brought two others with me and picked them carefully. McKee's retired Irish Army special forces. He's got more of a follow orders than follow the law mentality, so he'll be fine. Brought Davis with me because of all the technology. She's former Homeland Security but swears she can compartmentalize and doesn't have a problem being here as long as they don't flaunt their business in front of us. Doesn't look like that's going to be a problem. They way they're talking, if we didn't know what they did, we might not be able to figure it out from this trip.
"Alright," Fujii-san projected a map of the compound up on the big screen, "let's get started."
Yeah, I'd reviewed the map already, but this one was less redacted.
It's the size of the Ootori, Suoh, and Hitachiin estates put together.
We're going to be here all day.
.
xXx
.
Early Afternoon, Hot Springs, Resort B:
Women's Baths:
"So, what do you think the newlyweds are up to?"
I slowly rolled my head to the side and barely opened one eye. Renge's entirely too chipper. "I think they're at that other resort with the good snowboarding."
When Honey-kun and I met up with Tamaki and Renge at the resort for lunch, I decided I'd had it for skiing today and joined her for a soak. We're in the women's section, and Tamaki somehow talked the twins into joining him in the men's so he wouldn't be alone. I think they just want to mess with him.
I never know what kind of shape my mind will be in from one minute to the next. Sometimes it's a dark place, and then there are moments where I can actually not think of Keiko. I hope the grief counseling will help.
"Do you have your dress picked out for tonight?"
"Hmm?" Dress?
"For the dance club?"
Oh, right. I forgot. Maybe on purpose.
"I only brought one. I may not go."
"It might do you good to get out and have some fun. They might have picture booths you and Honey haven't seen before."
Picture booths.
I let a small smile form. It just felt right. "Maybe."
.
There's a smile. This might be the best time for me to get her opinion.
"Can I tell you something?"
"Sure." She didn't move. Still leaning back on the edge of the pool, her face to the ceiling, her eyes closed.
"Tamaki and I are getting married in April…"
"I think the entirety of Japan knows that, Renge."
I held back a snort, "Let me finish, you goof." She waived her hand at me. "With all the craziness that's happened in the last year with Haruhi, his grandmother, and me finally graduating from Ouran, we're seriously thinking about moving to Paris for my first year of university."
That got a reaction. Her head jerked up, and her eyes went wide. "Paris, France?"
"The one and only. We both applied at the Sorbonne."
She stared at me for forever. Is she going to tell me it's a horrible idea?
Then a small smile formed. "I think it will do you both good. And it's not like you'll be gone the entire year. On Okuri and his art businesses will keep you coming back."
"Our friends will keep us coming back."
"Maybe we could all do Christmas in Paris next year. I've always wanted to see it."
"You're on."
.
Men's Baths:
"So why are we really here, Boss?"
"Yeah, it's not because you're afraid to soak by yourself, is it?"
"Very funny, you crazy doppelgangers." But there wasn't any malice in the insult. Looking through the steam across the pool at them, I realized we're actually closer friends than I ever thought. Can you believe it? Me close with those two perverts. "I just thought it'd be fun."
"Well, we were going to go back to the commoner resort we were at yesterday to pick up more girls, but being gazed at in complete adoration can get old."
"I'm sure…"
"But this will relax us for the dance club tonight. You got an outfit picked out, or do you need expert help?"
"My sweet Renge-chan picked mine out to match hers."
"Oh, then there's nothing to worry about."
Silence drifted through the room. Do I tell them? Maman said they'd understand.
"Renge and I are considering doing a year of university in Paris after the wedding."
Identical heads cocked to the side, "Way to go, Boss. Private time your whole first year of marriage."
"Yeah, an apartment to yourselves. Just think of all the dirty things the two of you can get up to."
"Make sure the piano is easy to clean."
"Perverts," I called out and splashed them. "Don't you dare talk about my darling Renge like that."
They looked at each other then back to me, then said in sync, "Whatever, pervert."
Then I'm sure it was Kaoru who continued, "But seriously, it sounds like a good idea. Being alone together for a year will give you a good foundation to build on."
"You won't," I swallowed, "you won't miss me?"
Identical cheshire grins.
"Nope. We're thinking about Italy for all of university, so we'll be close."
"Yeah, we can come up on the train and bug you anytime."
"And I'm sure all of us will be flying back to Japan a lot. It's only about a twelve-hour flight."
One of the main reasons I'm hesitant to go is Kyoya. He just moved back and is starting to come back to the group. With me gone, will that all go away? But I'm not the idiot everything thinks I am. I know not to bring that up with these two. Especially Hikaru.
"You don't think the rest of the group will feel abandoned?"
"Nah. You two in Paris, us in Italy, the yakuza couple not even going to university, Chika and Satoshi still in Ouran, Akito starting his residency, and the rest in Todi, but not all in the business school. Everyone's got their own thing going."
"My poor family," I wailed, realizing we were breaking up all over again.
"Hey," one of them splashed water in my face, "cut that out."
"Yeah, Boss. Families constantly spend time in smaller groups then come back together and see each other."
"After what we've all been through, there's nothing that's going to keep us apart for long."
"Really?"
"Yeah, really."
.
xXx
.
Late Afternoon, Halfpipe Chairlift, Resort C:
"I'm going to ask your opinion on something, Asshole, so try to contain yourself."
"Ha. Ha."
"What should I do about our fathers' spies in Shiraishi?"
"You really asking? You're the boss."
"Yeah. If it was just my father that put one in, I'd figure it out, but the Kasanoda Syndicate is involved too."
"You worried about what info they're reporting?"
I leaned back and scrubbed my hand through my hair. I hate it short. "Not really. They aren't in positions to really know too much about the business itself. It's more the principle of the thing. It's not like we have spies in their syndicates."
"You don't?"
I gave him my 'what the fuck' look, "Should I?"
"Well…why not? They're allies, but also competitors. Aren't you trying to get spies in other syndicates?"
Oh, we most certainly are, but I'm not going to tell him that. That's a boss thing. "Maybe."
"Same difference."
"Ritsu…"
"Look, either kick their spies out or put some of yours in theirs. Or better yet, do both. That will show them your serious."
"If it was anyone else, I'd kill the spies and leave them on their doorsteps."
"Yeah," he ran his hand down his face, "that won't work here."
Maybe I could…
"I got it. Remember when my fellas caught those color gang fuckers that bombed Haruhi's photoshoot?" I nodded. "We ziptied them and dropped them off at the nearest police station with a note."
I couldn't stop the smirk on my face. "Perfect. Wish I could see Dad's face when he sees his spies all trussed up on his doorstep."
"Spy."
"What?"
"Maybe only do one then feed bad info to the one that's left. When Junto-san says something, you can call him on it."
"Even better, but I'm kicking all the Kasanoda ones out."
"Works for me, Bu."
.
xXx
.
Late Afternoon, Black Diamond Run with Trees, Resort A:
After seeing Sota, Umeji, and Akito off, I'd headed for the library to catch up on emails. With several acquisitions on the horizon, I'd ended up working until mid-afternoon when Tachibana 'suggested' I get out for some fresh air.
Heavy.
I feel heavy.
Weighed down by decisions I'd made, choices I'd had no control over, and situations I couldn't turn to my advantage.
My eyes watered slightly as I lifted my goggles to get a better look at the slope. I hadn't been on this one before. Glade skiing. Lots of trees and fresh powder. Not popular.
Alone.
Again, I'm alone.
Pushing off the top, I headed for unmarked snow. The wind whipped my face, and for a fleeting moment, I felt a sense of freedom.
It didn't last.
I tried to concentrate on the trees but saw Haruhi's face instead. Her name echoing through my head. A constant reminder of just how wrong I can be when I always considered myself to be infallible. I made colossal mistakes in our relationship. Unforgivable actions.
Yes, she may be talking to me again, but our relationship will never be what it was. Our friendship will never be what it was. At best, we'll be friendly acquaintances.
And it's all my fault.
Powder sprayed as I whipped around another tree, speeding up, trying to find that fleeting feeling of freedom again.
But Keiko's face danced in front of me. What that motherfucker did…
It's not fair.
We were just starting to become good friends. Then I decided to move back to Japan and hire her for the Ootori satellite office.
Why didn't I put guards on her? Why did I think her personal guards were enough?
And that damn marriage contract on my desk. Her father offering her. If she'd been alive, I would have called her right away. I would have asked if it was what she wanted.
Swish
Swish
It's not fair.
I got rid of my father.
My life is supposed to be easier.
All of a sudden, I broke through the trees and into a clear patch. The wind hit my face, freezing my skin. I went lightheaded with the sun in my eyes.
It was like breaking free.
Faster.
I'll leave it all behind.
Faster.
My turns tightened as I slalomed through the clearing headed for the next section of trees.
This feeling…a rush of danger and adrenaline. The physical. The more I focused on the physical. Dodging trees, spraying powder. With each turn, with each jump I felt that freedom trying to come back.
Faster.
My mind got quieter and quieter. I couldn't hear Haruhi or Keiko anymore.
Faster.
Escape.
I'm outrunning them.
Faster.
I chased that feeling of freedom all the way down the slope.
And then I reached the bottom.
I stood there, panting and exhausted, my thoughts empty.
I looked back up the slope. Did I really come all that way? I don't remember the trip down. It was all a blur. A high. I escaped. It felt so good.
My face hurts.
I pulled off my glove and touched my cheek. My hand came back red.
Blood?
Must have been a branch.
But I don't remember.
"Kyoya-sama, what the hell was that?"
I turned towards Tachibana. He was just now catching up to me. His nostrils flaring, he practically growled, "Do you have any idea how dangerous what you just did is? What were you thinking?"
"I wasn't."
It just popped out, but I realized how true it was. "I wasn't thinking. I was free. For a split second, I was free."
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xXx
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Author's Note:
Getting deep into Kyoya's redemption arc here. Little bit of a cliffhanger, but I have the next chapter done already, so you'll get the consequences of his actions and even more.
Cho's doing better, and grief counseling will help. I won't be going into detail on her sessions. Just don't see the need.
I could not come up with a campfire game that I liked or could write, so I decided to write several failed ones. Ended up working out better. I figured your imaginations are better than what I could come up with for karaoke.
Not sure if the talk between Mori and Haruhi met expectations. I guess I made it easier on them than I could have because I'm tired of writing it. He won't be driving her for a while, and she'll use the code word a couple times, but I think we're more or less done with the security issues between the two of them. He's still on his learning curve but will be doing better. This doesn't mean she's not in danger anymore, just that the security conflicts between the two of them are better. One thing's for sure, I have no plans for him to do something like that stupid car thing again. He learned that lesson the hard way. Anyone catch the easter egg for the tv show Numb3rs?
Kyoya's run down the slope and a scene from the next chapter took a lot out of me. I've been going through a lot of shit in real life, and rereading those scenes makes me realize how much of me I put in them. I hope I did them justice.
BTW – the "S" on my laptop keyboard is dying, so if you see a typo with an s missing, that's why. I need to take it in, but don't want to be without it. If it gets worse, I'll suck it up and do it.
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Next Chapter:
More fun in the snow with the dogs…Kasanoda discovers a security test…Hikaru pries open his wallet at the dance club…the gang plays hocky…and Kyoya loses it.
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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.