Falling in Love with the Kitty

by AnimeWriterFreak

Kyo didn't want to go to Ouran Academy. She was perfectly fine at Kaibara with Tohru and, dare she admit it, Yuki. She meets the Host Club, and unfortunately, they don't forget about her that easily. Fem!Kyo. Kyo/Hani

11. Chapter 11

Summer. It was finally here. A semester at Ouran was finally completed. Although Kyo had come in the middle of the semester, it felt like a lifetime ago that she was at Kaibara with Tohru and the others; so much has occurred since then. New friendships and new bonds were created, and Kyo couldn't help but feel her heart expand with happiness. It seemed the longer she was away from the other zodiac members, the more at peace she felt.

Her mind dwelled on that last thought. Unintentional or not, Akito had granted her the chance to be happy. Was there an ulterior motive to have her be at Ouran? Was Akito toying with her by giving her a taste of freedom before condemning her to. . .that place?

"–yo?. . .Kyo?"

Her steps faltered, pausing in the middle of the road. She blinked at Tohru, who was tilting her head curiously. They were both on their way to Kazuma's house, her old home. He had invited her to come over for lunch, and requested she bring Tohru along. This was probably his way of apologizing to them both about that night, but to be honest, Kyo had forgiven him that very next day. Yes that night had almost broken her, drove her back into that same dark place she was mentally in a year ago. . .but because of what he did, she and Tohru have gotten closer. And so did she and Mitsukuni.

"What?" She resumed her walk, passing Tohru.

Tohru hurried to catch up with her, gently looping her arm through Kyo's. "I was saying how excited I am to go over to Shishou's home."

"Don't get too excited." Kyo grumbled, leaning into her touch. "He just invited us for lunch, it might be boring."

Tohru considered that. "Maybe, but even so, I would have fun being with you two." A minute passed before she spoke again. "Kyo. . .What ended up happening after you went to confront Haninozuka-san? You came back happier. I think Yuki noticed too."

Kyo scowled briefly at the reminder of the Rat. ". . .Is it that obvious?"

"Only a little. You don't fight as much with Yuki anymore. You also don't frown as often as before." Tohru smiled. "I like seeing you like this."

She let out a low hum and didn't answer. She knew the cause was the shift in their relationship. As close as she was to Tohru, she still wanted to keep her and Mitsukuni's relationship developments between them for a little while longer.

Walking up the small walkway to the house, Kyo tested the doorknob, proving her personal theory that Kazuma hadn't broken the terrible habit of locking the doors. She kicked off her shoes in the doorway. "Shishou! We're here." She called out. There was no response.

"Kyo-kun? There's a strange smell. . ." Tohru pointed out hesitantly.

Kyo sniffed the air. She gasped, rushing toward the kitchen and coming to find Kazuma in front of a burning pot, reading a book. "Shishou! Really? What did you burn this time?!"

"Eh?" Kazuma's head snapped up. "Oh no, I can't believe I got distracted again. . ." But he made no move to turn off the stove.

"The pot! The fish is burnt!" Kyo was flustered as she turned the stove off, staring down at the charred fish. "Shishou, what the fuck!"

"I'm sorry Kyo, this book was just so interesting I got engrossed in it." He held it up to her. "It's Shigure's new book!"

"Burn it." She hissed. She grabbed the pan handle to toss the fish in the trash, placing the pan in the sink to let it soak. Maybe it could be saved.

Kazuma put his book away and ushered her to the living room, where he at least managed to have tea ready. "I'll wash the dishes later, don't worry."

She sighed as she sat down, grabbing her tea cup. "Shishou, you've got to be more careful. I'm not here anymore to make sure you're not burning anything."

Kazuma laughed dismissively. "Kyo, you don't have to worry. I actually am doing fine. I did raise you on my own, remember?"

"And that's when I started to supervise your cooking." She grumbled softly. Frequent nights of being served slightly burnt meals came to mind.

"How are you, Tohru?" He ignored the jab, giving Tohru his attention. "It's been a while."

"Oh, I'm doing well! You really did cut your hair, Shishou. It was so nice and long. . ." His long hair was gone, chopped off to just below his ears. Kyo frowned, why did he cut it?

"I thought a change was needed." Kazuma chuckled. "It's disappointing that I ruined lunch. It's almost the afternoon and I have nothing to offer you."

Tohru shook her head, rising from her seat. "No, it's okay! If you'd like, I can make lunch?"

Kyo scoffed. "No Tohru, you're a guest, you can't cook here too–"

"That would be lovely, thank you." Kazuma accepted with no shame.

"Oh, come on!" She groaned, face palming.

Tohru made her way into the kitchen, taking stock of what was there. Kyo trailed after, witnessing the empty cabinets being displayed. She shot Kazuma a look. She knew he was still settling in after being away for so long, but shouldn't he have a little something in his cabinets?

"Ah-ha! Found something!" Tohru turned around, holding up a small box. "I think a curry dish would be fine."

"Great! I can help you make it–"

"No way." Kyo rebuffed, pushing Kazuma toward the door. "You'll just get distracted and burn something again! I'll help her."

"It's okay Shishou, Kyo knows how to cook really good meals. She sometimes helps me in the kitchen!"

Kyo blushed, mortified as Kazuma cast a look at her in disbelief. "Really?"

"Okay, bye! Get out of here Shishou!" She gave a giant shove to ensure he was out of the kitchen before heading back to Tohru. She snatched the curry box out of her hands, huffing as she read the directions.

"You don't have to be embarrassed, Kyo, cooking is a good skill to have." Tohru reached into her pockets to retrieve her ribbons to put her hair up. She offered them to Kyo who took them without complaint.

"Yeah, but he knows I don't like to cook if I can avoid it." She mumbled.

Tohru giggled. "Have you ever thought about growing out your hair?"

She hummed, reaching up with her free hand to touch the ends of her hair. It had grown just to her shoulders. "I don't know. . .maybe. I used to have it really long before I cut it last year."

"I didn't know you had long hair! I would have loved to see it. Why did you cut it?" Tohru was almost pouting, taking the ribbons from her to finish off her ponytail.

"I. . ." The memory of last year surfaced, allowing her to recall the painful three months she suffered in the mountains. She was a mess, unable to bring herself to eat, sleep, or care for herself. An empty shell. If it weren't for Kazuma, she probably would have died. When she finally was well enough, she chopped off her hair due to the matted tangled mess it had become. "It got annoying. I don't know if I want it long again."

"I think it would look beautiful. You know, my mom's hair was a similar shade to yours? When I was little, she had beautiful long hair before she cut it a few years back." Tohru, looked down at her hands with a fond smile.

She stayed silent, trying to ignore the painful lump in her throat.

"Kyo, Tohru, I'm sorry but I have to step out." Kazuma stepped back into the kitchen.

Kyo frowned. "You're going out? Why?"

"I have someone I have to see urgently." He answered. "I shouldn't be too long. I'll probably come back by the time you finish the curry."

She couldn't think of anyone who would request Kazuma's presence this urgently. Unless it was Akito? But what would there need to be talked about. . .Her?

"Shishou. . .is everything alright?" She asked, holding his gaze.

Kazuma only smiled, patting her head. "No one to worry about. I should be back shortly, I know you get scared I'm gone."

"What are you talking about?!"

"You used to cry when I was gone for too long."

"Yeah, when I was a kid!" Kyo gave a light punch to Kazuma's stomach, pouting as he blocked it and laughed in her face. Managing to kick him out finally, she turned back to see Kunimitsu, Kazuma's assistant and helper, talking to Tohru about her childhood fear of the stain on the kitchen wall. She raised her leg, kicking him off balance from his crouch. "Stop talking about that stupid stain! I'm not afraid of it anymore."

"Agh!" He got up, backing away. "Alright, alright, I can see when I'm not welcome anymore."

Kyo rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. All these men are such gossipers.

"So I guess even you cried about scary things as a kid, huh?" Tohru touched the stain on the wall, tracing the face she could see. "It is kinda scary. . .if you're afraid now. . ."

"I'm not!" Kyo flushed, giving Tohru a small shove. "Come on, let's start cooking."

---

"We're almost done planning the school trip! I hope we can go to the ocean." Tohru clasped her hands together. "I haven't been to the ocean since I was a little girl."

They had finished the curry about an hour ago, but there had been no sign of Kazuma returning. Kyo was annoyed at that, but they decided to have tea while they waited.

"So you know how to swim?"

"Nope! But as long as I learn how to breathe then I'll be okay!"

"Ah? How's that going to work? I'm pretty sure you need to learn how to swim too." Kyo let out a sharp laugh. "Maybe you should stick to staying on the sand and building sandcastles."

"Kyo-kun~!" Tohru whined. "I'll show you I can swim!"

Sensing a presence, Kyo glanced at the doorway. "Shishou, you're back." She grinned. "We waited a long time, you know."

He was leaning against the doorway, watching them both. "I'm back." He murmured.

"Welcome back!" Tohru piped up.

They stood to greet him properly. Kyo stared at Kazuma, pursing her lips. "Is everything alright now?"

"Hn. They just had a lot of annoying complaints. I won't let them act as they please." He assured her, gently patting her head.

Kyo chewed on her lip, concerned with the look he was giving her. "Shishou? What is it?" She tried again.

"Nothing. How about that curry? Is it ready yet?"

"Of course it's ready! We were waiting for you this whole time." She scowled.

"Let's eat then!"

---

A week into the summer break, it had rained. Her energy had been depleted the second the rain started, and she chose to spend the day in her room, withering away. She had been napping on and off, when her door opened, and Momiji entered.

"Kyo? Are you feeling alright?"

She gave a grunt, poking her head out from the blanket she was wound up in. "I'm not in the mood Momiji, leave me alone."

"Oh. . .I understand. . ."

That was easier than she expected. She was sure he would have annoyed her anyways–

"We're going to the summer villa tomorrow so start packing!" He shouted.

She sat up instantly, face flushed with anger. "I see you're so understanding!" She snarled. There was no indication he was leaving so she stood up, carrying the blanket with her. His words registered a few moments later. "Wait, what? The summer villa?"

" Ja! "

"Don't 'ja' me, there you go making plans without telling anyone." Her fist came down on Momiji's head, making him cry out.

He clutched his head, but tilted his head up at her. "Does this mean you're going?" She said nothing, crossing to the other side of the room. "Kyo, you have to go!"

"Save your breath."

"Aw, but it will be so fun with everyone there! Tohru will be so lonely if you don't go! Kyo! Hey!"

"Chill out!" She turned back to him. "I never said I wasn't going. . .I'm really tired so just leave me alone so I can pack."

Momiji blinked at her, before his face softened, a smile pulling at his lips. "You've changed Kyo. . .You're more calm."

She stared persistently at her dresser as she knelt down to pick out items. "I don't think so."

"You have. It's because of those boys, right?" He kneeled beside her.

"Get those stupid thoughts out of your head."

"It's okay, I think that all of us deserve to have bonds with other people." The earnest tone in his voice made her look over to him. He wasn't staring at her, but at the floor, a sad smile painting his face. "I think they're good for you, you should do whatever you can to stay by their side. You're the only one out of all us that has that chance."

"That. . ." He had no idea how wrong he was. She was the one who had the least chance.

The sound of glass shattering had them jolting. They glanced at each other before rushing out the door, following the sound to Tohru's room. She and Yuki were both staring at the branches that were trying to make their way into the room.

"Tohru, are you okay?" Momiji gasped, hurrying to her side.

"T-the-the glass!" Tohru stuttered, her skin a new shade of white.

"It's okay, calm down. You're not hurt, are you?" Kyo's eyes fell to Tohru's arms, where she was clutching a small tattered cap. A child's cap. That. . .

"Begone wind! Leave Tohru alone!" Momiji yelled, raising his arms to the window.

"As if the wind is going to stop because you asked!" Kyo scoffed, pushing Momiji to the side.

"Miss Honda, it's better if you step out of the room so we can clean up." Yuki advised her. Kyo's eyes were drawn to him, watching him in contemplation. If Tohru had that hat, then Yuki. . . "Are you going to keep staring like an idiot, or are you going to help, you stupid cat?"

The familiar hatred in Kyo sprang to life and she glared at Yuki. She held her tongue, turning around to walk out the room to retrieve tape and a tarp. She took over the task to patch the hole, having experience from her first meeting with Tohru. With all three of them helping out, by the time that Tohru returned from telling Shigure, they were already finished.

"Thank you, everyone." Tohru was now calmer after the incident, the color back in her face. "The wind's gone down too!"

Kyo crossed her arms. "Hey, I don't think you should sleep here tonight."

"It's okay! This is just like when you made a hole in the roof!" She assured her. "I slept just fine during that time."

"Kyo, you made a hole in the roof?! You're so impolite!" Momiji scolded.

She grit her teeth. "And aren't you just the most polite angel?"

After that small scare, the main focus was packing for the trip tomorrow. It was last minute, but they managed to get everything packed by morning. Shigure had to stay behind for some reason and although Haru was the only one who had any driving lessons, he didn't have his license. Momiji had thought of everything however, and had set up a driver to take them.

By the time they arrived and headed to the water, it was well into the afternoon. Kyo was sitting in the warm sand with Hatsuharu and Yuki, watching Momiji and Tohru play in the water. The others were wearing swimwear, but Kyo knew she wasn't getting in the water. She kept on her cargo pants and wore an open button down, a bikini top the only swimwear she was willing to have on.

"You know, I was really sure that sensei was going to come." Haru murmured, stretching his arms.

"He's still coming, he just needs to finish his work." Yuki reminded him. "But why were you so sure?"

"Because there's no way he was going to miss Tohru in a swimsuit."

"Don't be a fucking pig!" "Stop saying that!"

Haru wasn't fazed, only shrugging it off. "I'm just an adolescent boy, I can't help it."

"Adolescent, my ass!" Kyo pounced on him, bringing him into a headlock to give him a nasty head noogie. He let it happen, bending under her strength.

Momiji caught their attention with his shouts, pointing next to him. "Look at Tohru! She's swimming so fast!"

He wasn't wrong; Tohru was actually moving through the water at a rapid pace. The only issue was, this idiot was probably holding her breath like she'd mentioned before. She rolled her eyes, letting Haru go to fetch an inner tube. She stepped into the ocean shivering at the cold temperature. Making it out to the giant boulder Tohry was headed to, she climbed it, making it on time for Tohru to burst out of the water, gasping for air as she clutched the boulder.

"I told you you should learn how to swim first." Kyo scolded.

"Kyo!" Tohru was out of breath, panting harshly. "Y-you saw that. . .was it bad?"

"Criminal."

"I'll swim again for you to see!" Tohru looked like she was seconds from passing out, but still pivoted, ready to swim again.

"No!" Kyo shouted, exasperated. "You're going to get eaten up by the waves." She jumped into the water, raising the inner tube to capture Tohru inside of it. Hooking her hand through one side, she dragged her away. "Momiji! Come show her how to breathe!"

"Okay~!"

A giggle caught Kyo's attention. She looked over her shoulder to the girl, scowling. "What are you laughing about?"

"It's fun!" Tohru exclaimed. "Sorry for making you come in. . .I know you don't like the water."

Kyo's eyes softened. Gripping the inner tube, she gave it a harsh tug, sending Tohru spinning. She laughed as Tohru made a noise, holding onto the tube tightly. Momiji swam over, whining to be tossed around too. Rolling her eyes, she indulged the two of them by playing with them, accepting her fate of being in the water already.

She called it quits when Momiji sent a large wave of water toward her, getting her hair wet. She waddled back to the shore, her pants feeling heavy from the weight of the water. Yuki passed her on his way to the ocean, and Hatsuharu looked up at her.

"Not swimming anymore?"

"I didn't want to swim in the first place." She grumbled. She let out a shout as Haru grabbed her wrist, dragging her back to the water. "What the fuck!"

"Let's have a competition!" He demanded, waddling through waves.

"Let me go! You're going to kill me!" She cried out, trying to wriggle out of his grip. He only changed positions, hooking his arm around her waist. She stumbled against the quick pace, almost falling if Hatsuharu wasn't holding her so tightly. She struggled even harder, the water splashing around them.

"Yuki~ Do you want to compete too? Kyo will definitely join if you do." He called out, ignoring her.

"No I won't! I'm not that naive!" Kyo argued, crossing her arms.

Yuki hummed. "I might as well–"

"Alright Rat boy! I'll crush you like a bug!" Kyo cackled, escaping Haru's grip to take off her shirt and flinging it behind her.. "I'll win! I must win!"

---

An exhale escaped Kyo, staring out from her window to glare at the night sky. She was lying in her bed, sulking from the race she had lost with Yuki. The damn Rat had beaten her so easily, he was hardly out of breath even with the asthma he had.

She hated him.

She had exclaimed that she wanted to go to sleep early, and while she knew they would believe she was angry and sulking (which she was), she had just wanted a break from everyone. This was going to be the first time that she was going to be around the other Zodiacs for days. The only other instance where she was around them had to be when the majority of them trained with Kazuma. But it was a weekly thing at best. It was also where she and Haru first met and became friends.

Now with the others coming, she couldn't help but wonder how it would be. Would all the Zodiacs gather? Would they all get along?

She rolled onto her stomach, releasing a huff of laughter. Maybe it was time to sleep if she was actually hoping this vacation would change things.

---

It was the incessant ringing that brought Kyo out of sleep. The only light source was coming from her flip phone, illuminating her room. Sleep was calling her name, tempting her to bask in the warmth. But the ringing wouldn't stop. She let out a groan, sitting up and resting her weight on her calves. The tiny screen blinked with Tamaki's contact, making her roll her eyes. She glanced at the window, squinting at the pink sky. Of course it would be Tamaki to call this early. Digging her thumb nail into the side of the phone, she flicked the screen open.

"Motherfucker!" She ripped the phone away, blinking at the small phone. That wasn't her who cursed. She brought the phone back to her ear, listening to the spew of words spilling out of Tamaki's mouth.

"Whoa, calm down M'lord!" Hikaru's voice crackled. A conference call?

"I've been calling Haruhi since the break started and she isn't answering!" Tamaki yelled out. "Something must be wrong, she's been kidnapped!"

"Tamaki, you're being dramatic." Kyo rolled her eyes.

"No, you're not being dramatic enough! This is your best friend Kyo! You should be worried for her as a woman!"

"Fuck off, we all know Haruhi is the most independent person out of all of us, there's no way she would get let her guard down and get kidnapped."

"Well, we did kidnap her when we went to the waterpark. . ." Kaoru pointed out.

Oh, right. "Yeah she's been kidnapped."

"See! See! Kyoya, we need to get your men ready for a manhunt. There's no way she would have left on her own–unless they couldn't pay rent and she was sold into slave labor!–"

"Okay, I really doubt Haruhi was sold–" "What if she and her dad witnessed a crime and had to go into witness protection!" "What if the yakuza is after her!"

"Right. . .Sorry to interrupt your delusions, but Haruhi is in Karuizawa." Kyoya cut in.

Silence rang out.

"Haruhi went bankrupt, fled by night, and was abducted to Karuizawa?!" Tamaki gasped.

"Oh my God. . ." Kyo breathed out. "Bye, you guys are idiots."

"Wait, Kyo! We need to go to Karuizawa! I'll get my helicopter ready and pick you guys up within the hour."

She pinched her nose bridge. "As much as I would love to see how this plays out, I can't. I'm out of town for the week."

"What!"

"I didn't know you left town, Kyon. . ." Mitsukuni spoke up.

She bit her lip. "It was a last minute trip to our summer villa; we just got here yesterday. Look, I'm still tired so I'm hanging up. Update me on Haruhi later." She ended the call before anyone could protest, falling back to the mattress. There was no reason to feel guilty, what was wrong with her? It would have come up in conversation at some point, there was no need to update Mitsukuni immediately.

Seeing as she was already awake, she got ready for the day, heading down to the kitchen. Tohru was already up as well, making breakfast for everyone.

"Good morning Kyo-kun, did you sleep well?" Tohru made a plate, setting it down in front of her.

She chewed on some rice. "Yeah. What about you? You're up earlier than usual."

Tohru beamed, clutching a spoon. "Hiro and Kisa are arriving today! I wanted to make sure I had breakfast ready just in case they arrived early."

Kyo grunted in response, shoving an egg roll into her mouth. While she wasn't thrilled to have the kids coming along, specifically Hiro, she wasn't about to bad talk them to Tohru. "I'm heading out for the day, I'm going to buy souvenirs for my friends."

"How nice of you! I think there's no plans today, we might just go back to the beach or go on a hike. You should join us if you come back on time."

"Maybe." She stood with her empty plate, taking it to the sink to wash it. "Okay, I'm leaving." She walked over to the door, slipping shoes on. "Bye Tohru."

"Bye Kyo!"

---

Kyo didn't return until late in the night. She had done most of the shopping within the first few hours, but decided against going back to the house just yet. It was soothing to be alone for at least a day where no one knew her. It seemed like it was a lazy day for everyone, as they were all in bed by the time she returned.

The next morning she woke up again at sunrise to burn off all the fried foods and sweets she had indulged in at a local market. She slipped out of the house, taking any random path from the woods in the backyard and began her jog. The air was crisp and cold from the morning dew, prickling her throat and lungs as she inhaled. Sweat trickled down her temples, and she lost herself in the steady pace through the trees. She wondered what the others were doing, what Haruhi was up to in Karuizawa in the first place. No doubt the guys were causing trouble for her.

She heard voices on her way back, slowing down as a group came up ahead.

"Ah, Kyo!" Momiji turned his head, waving at her. "You're up early! Did you go on a morning walk?"

"You guys are the early ones." She fanned herself, dragging her eyes over everyone there. Hiro frowned at her, while Kisa gave a hesitant grin. "What are you doing here so early?"

"Good morning Kyo-kun!" Tohru bounced over to her, briefly resting her head against her shoulder. "A stag beetle!" She lifted her hands to showcase the bug laying there.

"Dummy, that's a Rhinoceros Beetle."

Tohru's eyes widened, looking flustered at the beetle. "What! Momiji, can I take a look at the book. . ." She squeaked, hurrying to Momiji's side.

Kyo stared after her, cocking her head. Narrowing her eyes, she turned Hiro, pinching his ear.

"Ow! What was that for!" He clutched at his ear.

"What did you do to Tohru this time?"

"What are you talking about? Why are you accusing me? Do you have any proof?" He sneered up at her.

Of course she didn't, but out of all of them, Hiro was the likely culprit. "I don't know what you did, but Tohru is less spirited today." She turned her gaze back to the girl, a worried pinch in her brow. Her smile was less bright, and she was more frazzled than usual. She left Hiro behind to come up next to Tohru, ruffling her hair. If she didn't want to talk about it, then that was fine. For now.

---

"Aren't you guys sick of the beach yet?" Kyo grumbled, watching as Tohru and Kisa ran toward the waves.

"Not everyone is afraid of the water like you." Yuki quipped.

"Hey jackass, I'm not afraid of the water!" Not anymore at least. It had been a while since the pool incident, and she was no longer having nightmares about that day. "I'm just saying, they've been going to the beach everyday since we got here, it's got to be tiring, right?"

"Just let them have fun." He said. "If you're not going into the water then make yourself useful and come to the market. Miss Honda wants watermelons so they can play a game."

"Don't tell me what to do." She muttered under her breath, but obediently followed Yuki. Momiji and Haru tagged along with them, making the trip more or less bearable for her.

Four watermelons and one detour for popsicles later, they were headed back to where they had left Tohru and the kids, only to find a dog had wandered over.

". . .Since it's a rare opportunity, why don't we go out on a date?" Shigure's voice drifted toward them.

"You fucking dog." Kyo hissed, her hands gripping her watermelon tighter. She should go ahead and chuck this at Shigure's fat head.

Yuki was beside her giving him a glare of his own, their menacing aura enough to make Shigure back down.

"It was a lie. . ." He chuckled, fanning himself. "It's not a big deal if it was a lie, right?"

"Nuh uh!" Momiji butt in, shaking his popsicle at him. "You can't say things like that!"

"Tohru, let's go before this pervert does anything else." Kyo called out, turning away.

"Okay!"

---

Kyo was walking ahead of the group, half-listening to Tohru. Hiro and Kisa had decided to hang back with Shigure for a moment, while the rest of them headed back first.

"Eh, so Hiro's mom is going to have another baby?" Momiji gasped. "I wonder if it will be a boy or a girl. . .I'd like for it to be a girl, but then I wouldn't be able to hold her. . .But at least it'll definitely not be a baby possessed by the twelve zodiacs!" He mused.

"Because all of us have been born, as long as we're still living. . ." Hatsuharu trailed off.

Momiji nodded. "Yeah! Besides, when Hiro was born, his mother was super happy and relaxed! She even told Hiro that she loved sheeps the best! She's going to be a great mother to her new baby."

A mournful silence slowly spread in the air, and Kyo had to focus on the leaves she was stepping on to ignore it.

"Ah, who's that up ahead?"

"Kyon-chan~!"

Kyo's head snapped up, jaw dropping at the sight of seven familiar, annoying people standing in front of the villa.

"What are you friends doing here?" Yuki's voice was cold as stopped in his tracks, snapping his head toward her. "Did you invite them?"

She glared back, shaking her head. "Of course not!"

It was clear he didn't believe her. "Well you better get them out of here, there's no way they're going to stay with us."

"Don't you think I realize that?" Shoving her watermelon into his arms, she stomped past him toward her friends. "What are you guys doing here? How did you even know where I was?!" She held her hand before Kyoya could open his mouth. "You know what, I already know."

"We wanted to come visit you!" Tamaki pouted. "You weren't able to come with us to Karuizawa, so we thought that we should come to you!"

"I'm with my family right now." She shook her head, looking over her shoulder. They had disappeared, probably inside the house to cut the watermelon. "There's no space for you guys to stay here with us, if that's your plan."

Mitsukuni hummed. "No, we wouldn't be rude like that, Kyon-chan; we rented the villa next to yours!" He motioned to the property that up until that second, had been vacant. Something about the owners only coming during the winter season.

She tilted her head back, groaning. "You guys are unbelievable. Can't we be like normal people and spend our vacations separately?"

"No chance at that, Senpai." Haruhi's voice was full of mirth. "These guys stick to us like chewing gum. Can't get rid of them."

Kyo scratched her head, letting out a sigh of despair. "Okay well, I guess I can't do anything to make you guys leave, but can you at least be careful around my family if you're going to talk to them? They don't really. . .talk to people outside of the clan." God, that sounded like they were a cult! Wait, were they a cult?

"We'll be fine! Can we join you all for dinner?" Tamaki gave her his puppy dog eyes.

"Say yes, Senpai!" Kaoru pleaded.

"Yeah, we can fill you in on what happened in Karuizawa!"

"Can we not?" Hikaru muttered, his cheeks turning pink.

That caught her attention, and a devilish smirk grew on her face. "Something Hikaru is embarrassed about? Well. . .I guess I can bring it up to the others. No promises though!" She wagged a finger. "Get out of here, I'll text you if you can come over or not."

Cheers sprung out of the main trio. Haruhi waved at her as she pushed Tamaki and Kaoru toward their villa, with the others following along. Staying long enough to watch them go into the house, Kyo headed inside to find everyone else. Closing the door behind her, she rested her back onto it. The house was empty, sounds coming from the backyard indicating where everyone was. She was glad for the moment to gather her thoughts and recover from that surprise. She never thought that they would go as far as to follow her to the summer villa. But then again, they did think Haruhi was kidnapped and crashed her vacation too. If they did come over for dinner, she was going to have to make sure that no one bumped into anyone. She might not have to worry about Kisa and Hiro; he would be overprotective of her, especially when he meets Tamaki.

Shaking it off, she headed out back, opening the glass door.

"Okay, I'll just throw it to the ground to break it open!"

"The hell you are!" Kyo shouted, putting her hands on her hips. Momiji froze with the watermelon over his head. "You're going to make a mess everywhere!"

"Aw, Kyo, you're no fun!" He whined, lowering his hands.

"Kyo-kun, how are your friends?" Tohru stood up, tears in her eyes and clutching her right hand.

"Tohru, what happened?!" She moved toward her, trying to look at her injury.

"Miss Honda wanted to try to break the watermelon with her hand like Hatsuharu." Yuki shook his head. "No need to worry, stupid Cat."

"Of course I have to worry, seeing as you let her hurt herself." She sneered.

"I don't think you should be talking considering you've hurt her much worse."

Kyo flinched, backing away from Tohru. A brief look of regret flashed upon Yuki's face before she could register it, but he didn't back down.

"That's not true–" Tohru tried to butt in, but Kyo had her sights on Yuki.

"Say that again. I fucking dare you." She moved closer, inches away from him. "Huh, Rat Boy? Cat got your tongue now?" She taunted, shoving his shoulder.

He said nothing, looking off the side with a clenched jaw.

"Please don't fight! This is supposed to be a fun vacation." Tohru pleaded, clinging onto each of their arms.

Kyo drilled a hole into Yuki's head. Suddenly he's taking the high road and not speaking?

"Hey Kyo?"

"What?" She snapped.

Hatsuharu was on the ground, eating watermelon calmly. "Are your friends stalkers?"

"Huh?" That came out of the blue. "They followed me here to crash the vacation and they're staying in the villa next door. What do you think?"

"That makes sense. They're waving at us."

He pointed upward, and she followed his gaze to the second story of the property. In front of a giant window were her friends, Mitsukuni waving wildly. Of course. "Ignore them." She grit her teeth.

"Come on Kisa, let's go inside where those perverts can't see us." Hiro spoke loudly, grabbing Kisa's hand to drag her inside.

"They're not. . .perverts. . ." Her words were left hanging as they had already left. Eyes darting between Yuki and Mitsukuni, she pivoted on her heel. "Whatever."

She headed upstairs to her room, finding her phone sitting on the bed where she hadn't bothered to take it with her this morning. Scrolling through her unread messages, she noticed that they had actually texted her when they arrived, with Mitsukuni texting her separately that he was excited to see her again. Smiling a bit, she shut her phone off, heading back downstairs. She found Tohru in the living room, draping a blanket over the kids and Momiji, who had fallen asleep.

"Hey Tohru." She sat down on the couch, sinking into the soft cushions.

"Kyo-kun." Tohru finished tucking the kids in, padding over to sit on the floor next to her.

"I can't believe Momiji fell asleep with them."

"He's tired." Tohru placated.

"What did Hiro say to you?" She got to the point, not having forgotten her behavior earlier.

"Eh?"

"You can't fool me. I know he said something to make you sad. What was it?"

Tohru fidgeted with her hands, looking sheepish. "I don't know. . .I'm afraid. . .I don't want to hurt. . ."

"Hurt? Hurt who? Me?" Kyo jabbed a thumb at herself, confused. "Be specific."

Tohru stuttered over her words before pausing to breathe. ". . .Can I ask about your parents?" She whispered.

Kyo was taken aback by the question. "Oh. I thought I mentioned it before. My relationship with my sperm donor is basically ruined, I haven't talked to him since I was still in elementary school. And my mother ki–" She choked on the word, blinking rapidly. A cold sensation spread through her body. Clearing her throat, she continued. "She died. It happened when I was four or five." Sitting straight, she rubbed her hands together. Her cheeks hurt as she forced them into a smile. "So that's why you were so scared huh? Don't worry, our mother's situations were completely different."

"Ah…"

"You probably cracked watermelon with your mother, right? It reminded you of her."

Tohru stared at her for a long moment, slowly nodding. "Yes. . .one time she accidentally broke the landlord's plant and had to pay for it. . .then we moved it inside the apartment and she accidentally broke my father's shrine. . ." A timid smile danced on her lips. "In the end we finally broke it together, and we ate it together. . .I was. . ."

"Really happy?"

"Yes. I was really happy." Her smile grew wide and she giggled. "It was really fun!"

"Stop worrying about whatever is going on in your head." Kyo was exasperated. "You're here on vacation, so enjoy yourself."

The front door opened and Shigure stepped in, leaving his sandals at the doorway. "Is everyone here?"

"Yuki and Hatsuharu are outside." Tohru answered. Momiji stirred from his nap on the floor, slowly sitting up.

"Good enough. Akito has come to join us."

Kyo felt that cold sensation intensify, blood rushing through her ears as everyone's voices became muffled.

"–Is Akito staying the night?"

"No, there's another Sohma property. . .It's a bit far from here. . .–will have to pay a visit."

She closed her eyes, trying to focus.

"–need to change?"

"No, you're fine like that." Catching Hatsuharu slipping in, Shigure caught his eye. "Where's Yuki?"

"On a walk."

"Hm. . .I guess he can just visit later."

"Hey." Kyo spoke up, raising her eyes to stare at Shigure. "You're not expecting me and Tohru to go, are you?"

Shigure let out a huff of laughter. "No, it's just family today. You both don't have to go visit for now. Sorry Tohru. . ."

"Um, no don't worry!" Tohru waved her hands.

"Great. We're going to be counting on you and Kyo to look after the villa."

"Don't worry Tohru, we'll try to be back soon." Momiji assured her, bidding goodbye as the rest of the zodiacs filed out the door.

Kyo chewed on her lip. Why was Akito here? And why did the guys have to be here at the same time? She needed to get them out of here. Yeah, that was the best option.

"Tohru." Kyo hurried to the doorway, slipping on her shoes. "I'm stepping out for a bit, I'll be back–"

"Wait, Kyo–"

"No, I need to go." She didn't look at her, her breathing coming out in short bursts. "I need to tell Haruhi and the guys to leave. I don't want to risk any chance of Akito running into them, especially Mitsukuni." She opened the door, shutting it behind her as she walked down the path.

"Kyo!" Tohru's voice trailed closer as she caught up, having followed her out. "Wait a second, please. Let's talk about this."

"We can't!" Kyo pivoted on the spot, grabbing her shoulders and staring into her eyes. "Them being here was already a risk. But with Akito here, it changes everything. And you know that Mitsukuni knows. He's the most in danger if Akito even thinks that he knows the secret."

Tohru held Kyo's wrists gently. "I understand. . .but from what you've told me about your friends, I don't think they would go that easily, right?"

". . ."

"Let's take precautions to make sure they don't meet, but I think you should let them stay."

Kyo dropped her arms, looking up to the sky in frustration. "I. . .I don't want them to lose their memories because of me." To lose their memories of her.

"Kyon?"

Kyo looked over her shoulder, finding Mitsukuni standing at the doorway to his property. "Mitsukuni. . ."

"You guys have been standing there for a while, did you want to come in? Did your family say if we can go over for dinner?"

"Dinner?" Tohru repeated softly. "Oh, I think it would be lovely to have dinner with you all! The rest of the Sohmas are gone for the day, so it would just be us too, but it'd still be fun!" She spoke for Kyo, preventing her from saying no.

"Yeah. . ." She answered once the two of them looked to her for approval. ". . Do you mind if we have dinner at your place? It would be easier since you guys are already there."

"I'll let the others know. Did'ya want to come in?" He opened the door wide, beckoning them in.

Kyo hesitated, but Tohru answered for them, grabbing her hand to pull her along. "Thank you Haninozuka-san."

"Call me Hani~!"

"Is that Kyo I hear?" Voices could be heard from upstairs, feet stomping down the stairs. All of them gathered at the foot of the

stairs, grins dancing on their faces.

"Hey guys." She gave a small grin, patting Tohru's back. "You remember, Tohru, right?"

"Why, how could I forget such beautiful–"

"Alright, cut it out with the cheesy words." She held up her hand, stopping Tamaki. "This is a vacation, so let's forget about being a host for a while, eh?"

Tamaki rubbed his chin, "I'm offended that you think this is all an act. But I digress! What brings you to our lovely home?"

"It's not even yours." Haruhi mumbled, rolling her eyes.

"You guys wanted to have dinner with us, right? Can we have it here? It's just going to be me and Tohru for today."

"Well, it's a good thing I already placed an order for food to come in. We thought we would take over some dishes to help lighten the load." Kyoya hummed, tapping into his phone. "Did the rest of your family say no to dinner?"

"I can cook something as well-"

"It's okay Tohru, just let them handle it." She reassured her. "My family. . .they had to attend a small event with the head of the clan. Mitsukuni, can I talk to you? In private?"

A wolf whistle came from the direction of the twins, but when she swirled her head toward them, they were innocently staring out the window.

Mitsukuni started to go up the stairs, and she trailed after him. She trusted the guys wouldn't do anything to make Tohru uncomfortable, and even then, Haruhi was there to facilitate.

Entering into the room Mitsukuni slipped into, she shut it behind her. There was a giant window, and looking out of it, she could see the backyard of her house; this was the room she had seen them in earlier.

"What did you want to talk about?" Mitsukuni spoke, coming to stand next to her.

"I wanted to warn you." Kyo crossed her arms, staring at the view. "Fuck, sorry that sounds so omnimous. Akito is here. I don't know why, and that's scary enough as it is. I'm worried that you or any of the others might run into him, and if you do, I don't know what will happen."

"Do you think we'd get our memories erased?"

"If Akito suspects anything, maybe. But just be careful. Akito. . .can go off the rails over anything."

Mitsukuni frowned. "What does that mean?"

"Just forget about it."

"No, I want to know what you meant by that. What does he do?" He touched her bicep, gently urging her to look at him. "Does he hurt you?"

"No–"

"Don't lie–"

"I'm not!" She raised her voice. She pursed her lips, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Akito has never touched me. He has no problem hurting others but. . .touching a freak like me would be the worst thing in existence."

"You're not a freak."

". . .I know." She dropped her hands, exhaling. "Let's go back down. That's all I wanted to tell you."

"And here I thought you wanted to kiss me again." Mitsukuni teased, pouting.

She coughed a little, avoiding his gaze. "Aren't you getting a little too confident?"

"You like it."

"Shut up."

Seconds passed before she lost will power and moved in to kiss Mitsukuni, letting herself have what she had been craving since the first time.

Mituskuni's hands landed on her hips, thumb gently caressing the small patch of skin that showed. It made her melt, leaning in closer. Before she could move away, he had wrapped his arms around her, making her gasp as she changed forms, laying in his arms as a cat.

"Shit, I'm sorry!" It was weird hearing him curse for a change. "I didn't mean to–I forgot."

A giggle burst out of her, before a dozen more spilled out of her. She couldn't find it in herself to be mad, the look on his face was enough to placate her. Wriggling out of his grip, she landed gracefully on the ground, pawing at her clothes to put it in a pile. "It's fine."

"It's not, let me help you get your clothes." He got on his knees, picking up the clothes that were too far away.

Two things happened in that instant that would make Kyo wish she dived out of the window immediately.

One, she changed back into a human on the floor, her hands coming up to cover her breasts and vagina. Mitsukuni turned beet red, about to turn around to give her privacy.

Two, the door opened after a quick knock, allowing Kaoru and everyone else that was pushing up behind him to witness the scene of her naked on the floor with Mitsukuni kneeling in front of her.

Someone screamed, or maybe it was just Kyo as she screeched at everyone to get out of the room. Mitsukuni thankfully sprung into action and blocked her body with his, joining in with her to yell at the others. Chaos descended as the twins stumbled back into Tamaki, who had a nosebleed, all three of them falling to the floor. Haruhi shouted in surprise, trying to shut the door but unable to because of the big buffoons.

Kyo was going to cry of humiliation. "Get out, get out!" She yelled, curling into herself even more. She squeezed her eyes shut, desperately wanting to cover her face, but other areas were more important at the moment.

It was Takashi who finally solved the situation. He grabbed the twins and Tamaki by their collars, and dragged them out forcefully. Haruhi finally pulled the door without any more struggle, shutting the door on a worried Tohru's face.

Kyo dropped her head. Why was everything going wrong today? One second earlier and they would have seen Mitsukuni with a cat and not her. She kind of wished that did happen that way, they weren't thinking that she and Mitsukuni were doing something sex related.

"I'll go into the bathroom to give you privacy." Mitsukuni mumbled, footsteps vibrating against the floor. The bathroom door shut, and Kyo rose, changing back into her clothes as fast as she could move her hands.

"Come out Mitsukuni, I'm changed." She sat on the bed.

He opened the door. "Are you mad?"

"More like embarrassed. Them seeing me naked isn't exactly what I ever wanted. And now I have to look them in the eye! How do we even explain it?" She groaned. Brushing her hair back with her fingers, she reluctantly moved off the bed. "Let's just get this over with."

The hallway was empty when they stepped out, but they heard voices drifting upward. Following the sound, Kyo peeked her head around the corner, spotting everyone seated in the dining room. Kaoru caught her eye and choked on the water he was drinking. Her face felt how Kaoru looked, and she stepped into the room all the way.

"Look, guys. . ."

"No no, it's okay Kyo." Tamaki cleared his throat, unable to meet her gaze as he played with his fork. "It's natural for a man and a woman to feel strongly for each other to–"

"Please stop talking!" She squeaked, holding her burning hot cheeks. She couldn't even defend herself and deny their accusations. Why else would she have been naked if not for that? Only Tohru would be able to know the truth and believe them. "Can we just move on?"

"Of course." Kyoya spoke up. "We set up the table while you were. . .busy. We were just waiting for you both." He too wouldn't look her in the eye, making it all the more humiliating that even he looked affected.

Taking a seat in the last two available seats, which were conveniently together, the food finally began to get served. The conversation was hilted and awkward, as if the whole table was full of strangers.

". . .How long are you all thinking of staying?" Tohru spoke.

"Just until Kyo leaves. We all came for her." Hikaru mumbled, his mouth twisting, regretting the words he used.

That's how it was everytime someone spoke or glanced at Kyo, overthinking their words and being careful about what they were saying.

Kyo's head ducked down and she felt herself wanting to curl up into a ball the more the boys messed up their words. Clenching her fist, she slammed it down onto the table in anger. The plates rattled and voices died down. Getting up from her seat, she put her hands on her hips, glaring at every single one of them, except Tohru and Haruhi. "Look, I'm only going to say this once and only once. Whatever you saw in that room, you're going to erase it from your mind however you can, because I can't have you guys cumming in your pants the second you meet my eyes. And if you can't handle it, then get the fuck out of here right now. And don't even think about asking me or Mitsukuni what happened because that's our business. Do I make myself clear?" She couldn't be bothered to raise her voice, moving her eyes around to meet each and every one of their gazes.

No one said a word until Kaoru held up his plate sheepishly. "Can you pass the chicken, Kyo?"

She let out a snort, looking up at the ceiling in exasperation. She grabbed the plate, handing it over to him. Seeing as no one else had anything else, she sat down, clearing her throat. "So. How was Karuizawa?"

It seemed that confrontation is what the guys needed to get their minds out of the gutter. She was told the events that happened in Karuizawa, making her die of laughter at how Hikaru was obviously jealous of Haruhi's old classmate.

Night fell and there was no indication that the others were returning. They had moved into the lounge to watch movies, and after the first one, Tohru stood up from where she, Haruhi, and Kyo were cuddling under a blanket on the couch.

"Tohru?" Kyo sat up.

"Everyone isn't back yet. . .and it's past dinner time already." She put her hand up to her bottom lip, rubbing it in worry.

"It's fine, Akito is probably making them stay until it's late."

". . .We should call them!"

Kyo got up, gently pushing Tohru out of the living room to stop interrupting the movie. "Do you know the number to the villa? I don't, and they all left their phones behind to not be rude to Akito."

"Well. . .as a last resort, I'll go out and take a look!" Tohru frowned in determination, putting on her shoes and opening the door. "I'll be back soon!"

"What good is that going to do? Hey. . ." Kyo sighed as the door shut. Going back to the others, she leaned against the doorway. "Tohru left to try and see if she could spot everyone coming back."

"Are you going after her?" Haruhi wondered.

"Nah, it's a safe area so I don't think she'll get into much trouble." She brought her hand up to her mouth, biting down gently on the tip of her thumb in thought. This area wasn't owned by the Sohma's but everyone in the small town was respectful enough. If Tohru didn't return within the hour then she would go and find her. "I'll be heading out soon anyways, it's getting late."

"Aww, you don't want to have a sleepover?" The twins linked their hands, pressing their cheeks against one another while pouting.

"And risk waking up with markings on my face? No way." She smirked.

"Hey Kyo, why did your family go see the head clan without you or Tohru?" Tamaki spoke up, his voice oddly somber.

The smirk fell off her face, taken aback by his question. Or maybe it was the fact that it was Tamaki asking it. He was hardly one to make the conversation serious. This seemed to be something everyone else was wondering, as they all waited patiently for her answer.

". . .Tohru isn't a Sohma, there's no reason for her to go."

"And what about you?" Kyoya spoke this time, arching his brow. "You're a Sohma."

"Look, guys–" She cut herself off, exhaling out a loud breath as she looked out the large window next to them. The trees looked back, saying nothing. "I. . .I'm not welcome there. I'm only a Sohma by name." She murmured.

"You mean you were adopted?" Haruhi tried to clarify.

A sharp burst of laughter escaped her. Stepping closer to them, she sat down on the ground. "I wish I was. What I mean is. . .I was born into the Sohma clan as a. . .disgrace. To Akito, I'm scum and he'd much rather step on hot coals than to see me in his sight." She looked down at her hands, slowly closing them into fists. "Every family event, I'm the only one from the main branch that is to be excluded."

"But you said the Clan Head wants you to return to the main estate after graduation. . ." Tamaki frowned. "That must mean he accepts you, right?"

"No, that's just a twisted power move from that sick fuck's mind." Kyo shook her head. "What better way to have me under his thumb than to trap me in that–in the main estate."

"That's not right. There must be something you can do. Or your dad!" Hikaru scowled.

Voices could be heard from the outside, Momiji's being the loudest. They had returned.

Kyo closed her eyes, standing up. "I know from the outside it looks like it's simple for me to just protest, or run away from it all. But I can't. No one can fight this, not even my dad. That's as much as I can tell you guys, and you can't bring this up to any of the Sohmas! You'll just make things worse." She pleaded. "I'll see you guys tomorrow, alright?"

She didn't bother to wait for a response, escaping out of the house quickly. God, why did she tell them even that much? There's no way they'll be satisfied with that.

"Kyo! No wonder there was no answer at the door." Momiji bounded up to her, grabbing onto her wrist and spinning them in a circle. "Were you hanging out with your friends? Where's Tohru?"

Kyo let him fool around, glancing back at the property she just left. "She went on a small walk looking for you guys. Oh–there she is."

Tohru walked out of the woods with Yuki beside her, making her raise an eyebrow. Why didn't he return at the same time as the others?

"Everyone's back!" Tohru smiled, hurrying over. "Are you guys hungry? I can make something real quick."

"Make us pancakes!" Momiji whined, letting go of Kyo to make his way to Tohru.

She watched everyone head over to their villa, trailing behind. Perhaps she'll worry about the conversation another time.

---

Kyo flicked through the channels rapidly, the shows appearing for a split second before disappearing. Behind her, Tohru and Hatori's voice carried over from the other room. She didn't bother to follow their words, although she could hear the anxiety in Tohru's words.

The others had left again for Akito's villa, and Hatori was the only one who had stayed behind a little longer to speak with Tohru. It seemed Yuki had ditched out on Akito yesterday, but finally was heading over today. She couldn't help but wonder how Akito reacted to him not being there.

"Kyo. Don't leave her alone." Hatori's voice rose to reach her.

She blinked slowly, casting him a side glance. It didn't seem like he expected an answer from her, as he slipped out of the house without a look back at her.

Tohru shuffled into the room slowly, her mind elsewhere. Sighing, Kyo turned off the television, rising. "Are you okay?"

"Huh?" Tohru looked up at her, then nodded rapidly. "Y-yes, I'm just thinking of some. . .Kyo!" She leaned forward, waving her hands. "The beach! I was thinking of the beach! Let's go again, shall we?"

She was obviously worried about something. Probably Akito. Tilting her head, she shrugged and turned away. "Again? You're going to turn into a fish at this point."

"I just want to build sandcastles with you!" Tohru pouted, hands on her hips.

Raising her hands in surrender, Kyo made her way over to the kitchen where the window faced her friend's villa. She swung open the frame, cupping her hands around her mouth. "Hey, does anyone want to go to the beach with us?!"

Tamaki was the one to respond to her, stepping out on one of the balconies, already dressed for the day. "How wonderful, the beach! I think we'll have to skip out on that for today, Haruhi and the twins want to go into the little town to look around. Do you and Tohru-chan want to join us?"

"Tohru-chan?" She scoffed. She gave it some thought. "It's fine, I already saw the town and Tohru wants to go to the beach. I'll see you guys later?"

He threw her a double thumbs up. "Of course!"

She shut the window. "Alright Tohru, let's go!"

---

Kyo tilted her head. "That. . .doesn't look like a sandcastle." She pointed at the lump of sand sitting innocently in front of Tohru.

"It's a work in progress! I need half left." Tohru reasoned.

"I don't know. . .the ones on TV always looked more like castles. . ."

"Does this mean you've never made one before?" Tohru gasped, inching closer. "Does this mean I'm your Senpai?"

"Alright, let's not get too cocky." Kyo laughed.

"I'm back, I'm back, I'm back!"

Neither of them had a chance to look as Momiji came out of nowhere and threw himself on top of Tohru, a poof of smoke enveloping them.

Kyo almost collapsed from disbelief, clenching her jaw when a yellow rabbit was revealed. "Momiji, are you insane?!"

"Aw, don't be like that Kyo. . .I made sure you guys were alone!" Momiji whined.

"You all came back early." Tohru changed the subject, taking Momiji off her head to hold him properly. Kisa and Hiro caught up, smiling at her. Well, Kisa did.

"Akito let you all leave?" Kyo asked, letting Haru help her up. She and him walked down the beach, hearing Momiji transform back.

"Yeah, looks like us being there all day yesterday was good enough. I asked if Kureno would be allowed to meet Tohru."

Kyo's eyes widened. Kureno. . .It's been years since she last saw him, or even thought of him. She sometimes forgot he even existed from how much Akito isolated him from them. "What did Akito say?"

Haru let out a dry chuckle. "Pretty much said I was stupid for even thinking of it. Said there's no reason for him to meet her."

Kyo looked up at the cloudless sky, holding her hands behind her back. "Hm."

"Where are your friends?" He asked.

"They went into town to explore. God, Momiji needs to be more careful, they or any of the locals could have seen him."

"Let him live a little." Haru tugged on the ends of her hair, steering them back toward the others. "I think we both know just how well he can keep the secret." He reminded her. "Yuki, it's time to go back."

Pursing her lips, she gasped softly as Yuki's hand caught her shirt as she passed, pulling her in close. "If you meet Akito next time. . .don't blow up like a fucking idiot." Her wide eyes met his dark glare. "I don't care what he does to you or what treatment you receive. You better watch what you do and don't drag her into trouble."

Her eyes trailed to the side, landing on Tohru who was playing with Kisa. She pushed him off, hissing. "You–you're no one to say this to me! Who are you to criticize me?! Who the hell do you think you are?"

"Ore-sama.*" Yuki sneered.

Everyone was speechless, surprised that Yuki would use that phrase. Kyo felt like she was going to burst a vein from how infuriated she was from this guy.

"What the fuck?!"

---

"Tohru-chan, I brought you a gift!" Mitsukuni smiled as held the tiny hermit crab out. He placed it on the sandcastle she was building, it having more of a solid form today.

Tohru clapped, amazed at the tiny creature crawling over the sand. "Wow, thanks Haninozuka-san!"

Today the Zodiacs had left to see Akito again, leaving Kyo and Tohru behind, again . On the brightside, Mitsukuni and the others were going to be joining them for once. At the moment it was only Mitsukuni, as everyone else chose to sleep in a little longer. Not that she minded.

Mitsukuni came to sit down next to her where she was filling Tohru's empty buckets with sand.

"Aren't you going to be hot, Kyon?" He pinched the end of her black tee.

"I'll be fine. We're not going to be here all day, anyway." She raised her head to look at Tohru. "Don't you feel like swimming, Tohru? If you're doing this because of me. . ."

"No, that's not it!" Tohru shook her head. "It's because it's more fun if we play together!"

Kyo's cheeks darkened slightly. Catching Mitsukuni smirking at her, she gave him a playful shove.

"Besides," She continued. "I want to make a mighty fortress so I can impress everyone!" She raised her arms, giggling. Lowering them, she bit her lip in hesitation. "Kyo. . .can I ask why you're so afraid of water?"

"What?" That was unexpected. ". . .I wouldn't say I'm afraid of it. . ." She trailed off, rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly. "I just don't like it. . .but those possessed by the Cat Spirit are naturally afraid of water. I heard the previous one was scared stiff of water. And then there was the time I almost drowned in a lazy river with Mitsukuni." She tried to change the subject, offering Mitsukuni a light smile.

His lips twitched downward at the memory and she inwardly sighed. She shouldn't have brought that up again.

"The previous Cat Spirits. . .they wore that bracelet as well. . ." Tohru brought her back into the conversation, looking down at her wrist.

Mitsukuni looked as well, curiosity brimming at the beaded bracelet. "It's a special bracelet, what's it made out of?"

"Human bones."

The two of them gaped at her, looking a little green on the edges. Kyo avoided their eyes, holding up her wrist to scrutinize the ancient beads. "I don't know much about them. . .I think they were created by a devout monk, and the beads were dyed with blood. It could all be just some stupid legend, but the only thing I know for sure is that a lot of lives were sacrificed to create this 'charm.'. . .When I was younger all I could think of were the lives that made this, all to keep the monster contained. . .but. . ."

Mitsukuni's fingers fell onto her wrist, the beads pressed between their skin. Her eyes locked onto his, being held in his intense stare. Before she could even try to decipher the meaning, a giant wave shot out of the ocean, drenching all three of them.

"You stupid ocean!" She yelled out, pushing her sopping hair out of her eyes. "I'll fucking kill you!"

An obnoxious set of laughs sounded out behind them. Turning around, she glared at the twins. They clutched their stomachs, pointing at them with glee. "You guys look ridiculous!"

Tamaki took off his sunglasses, shaking his head at them. "You know, I think you're supposed to wear swimsuits to get in the water." He smirked.

Even Haruhi smiled, standing between Kyoya and Takashi.

Taking a deep breath, Kyo palmed wet sand, standing up. She menacingly cocked her arm back, flinging the sand to the twins and Tamaki. They screamed as they tried to dodge the sand, Hikaru letting out a pained shout as the rough sand hit his lower back.

"Senpai, stop it!" He shouted, running away.

She grabbed another handful, chasing after him. "No! That's what you get for laughing at me!" Chasing him for a bit longer, she came to a stop, turning around to head back to the others.

"Your family is gone again?" Kyoya spoke up when she passed him.

Stopping in place, she gave a quick nod. "Yeah, it's going to be like this everyday I think." She peered up at him. His hair was pushed back, showcasing his face. He was dressed casually, and if she didn't know him, she would have believed he was a regular tourist.

"I can sell you this month's photo album of myself if you'd like to keep staring." Kyoya's voice was full of mirth as he pushed his glasses higher up.

Kyo rolled her eyes, lightly smacking his arm. "No way I'd spend money on that!" The whole thing about the club having a photobook of each of the members was ridiculous to her. They weren't idols to be fawned over like that. But she guessed any money grab was good for the club.

"Even if it was Hani-senpai's?"

She made a face.

"So, you are a couple." Kyoya tilted his head.

She frowned at the tone he had. He avoided her eyes, rather looking at Mitsukuni who was helping Tohru rebuild the sandcastle. "It's complicated." It wasn't, really. They were a couple in all but name, one that Kyo refused to acknowledge because of the undercurrent of fear she felt under her skin. It felt like she was going to get caught by Akito the second she voiced her relationship with Mitsukuni, and then it would be all over. But that wasn't something she could explain to people. ". . .Look, it doesn't matter what me and Mitsukuni are." The look on his face seemed to convey otherwise, but she had no chance to ask before they were interrupted by Tamaki.

"Guys, help me tell those rotten twins they're wrong about dolphins! They can breathe underwater, can't they?"

She let out a long and loud exhale.

---

Akito sneered in disgust, turning away from the scene of the monster and her friends . "I can't believe how heartless that monster is. . .she killed her own mother and yet. . ." Akito trailed off, eyes narrowed. Walking past Kureno, Akito beckoned him to follow. "Let's go, it's hot and I'm uncomfortable."

Kureno said nothing, looking back at the scene briefly one last time. His eyes traveled from Kyo to Tohru, accidentally meeting the gaze of one with glasses. Keeping the contact for a second, he turned away, catching up to Akito.

"It's clear to me now, all of the Zodiac are failing to understand their positions, especially the monster." Akito continued. "I'm going to have to step in and fix everything, like always." Akito made his way through his villa, to the lounge room that Hatori and Shigure used to smoke their putrid cigarettes and glared down at them. "Bring Kyo here tomorrow, even if you have to use force."

---

A tension that Kyo didn't know she was holding, had loosened around her shoulders. Spending the day with her friends and Tohru got her mind off the fact that Akito was here, and that she was excluded once more. She was able to be herself without the worry of Yuki or the others seeing this different side of her. The side where she wasn't the Cat; she was just. . .Kyo.

Kyo laid back on the grass, watching the sparse clouds roll by as she could hear Tohru in the background playing Rich Man, Poor Man with Haruhi, Tamaki, and the twins. They were in the backyard of the Sohma villa, taking advantage of another day with no one there.

It was the sixth day of the trip, three for the others, and tomorrow was going to be the last day. Yesterday they had all stayed on the beach until the sun set, bathing them in the orange hue. It was beautiful, moreso of the fact that she was able to witness it with Mitsukuni.

Speaking of Mitsukuni, she rolled her head to the side, staring at him as he closed his eyes, seemingly asleep. It was sweet of him to lay down with her, when he probably wanted to go play with the others. His honey brown eyes peeked through his lashes, meeting her own. They were far apart, but close enough where they could hold hands if they wanted to. The desire itched at her, and her fingers twitched as she slowly reached over to where his hand laid on the grass. Her pinky bumped into his, making her smile.

"There you are!"

Kyo ripped her hand away, sitting up. Mitsukuni's face contorted with hurt, but her anxiety and fear tamped down any guilt she felt as she looked at Shigure standing in the doorway. His head was tilted slightly as he regarded her. Did he see?

"Shigure-san!" Tohru stood up from the table she sat at, setting down her cards. The conversations slowly came to a halt, and Kyo felt a shiver go down her spine. "I thought you were out?"

Shigure's lips turned upwards slightly, stepping out onto the backyard. "Un, but I left something. I came back to get Kyo. Akito wants me to bring her to his villa, so I'll be borrowing her for the day, Tohru-kun."

Kyo's eyes grew wide. "What?!" Both she and Tohru shouted, although with different tones. She got to her feet, shaking her head.

"Wow, your reactions were in sync!" Shigure laughed.

"Wait a minute!" Kyo stepped forward, holding up a hand. "Wait, I don't. . ."

"This is great!" She looked over her shoulder to Tohru, who had tears in her eyes. Tohru hurried to her side, clutching at her arm. "Kyo, you're being invited to the villa! You're being included! This is great. . ." She repeated, sniffing.

Tohru. . .Her eyes darted around to everyone else, seeing the mixture of concern and happiness for her. Tamaki was just as excited as Tohru was, naively believing that this was a good thing. Kyoya was frowning, as was Haruhi and Takashi, while Mitsukuni looked worried. Neutralizing her face, she brought her shoulders down, lifting a hand to bump against Tohru's head.

"Be good and don't trip over anything, alright?" She spoke softly. "You should stay with the others until I come back. Take care of her for me, yeah?" She addressed the last part to Mitsukuni, catching his eye. He gave a short nod, biting his lip.

Unable to delay any longer, she made her way to Shigure's side, her mouth in a thin line.

"It's great, huh?" Shigure echoed Tohru's words, teasing her.

"Shut the fuck up." She pushed at his back, urging him back into the house.

"Ho ho~ I see, you're only gentle around certain people, is that it?"

"I said shut it!"

---

Long ago there would have been a time where Kyo would have been elated to be invited to meet Akito. To be acknowledged by God and have a chance to be in the Zodiac. But that hope died quickly after meeting Akito for the first time. After her bracelet was ripped off her and she was humiliated, resentment began to grow inside of her. A resentment that never stopped growing as she continued to be ridiculed by everyone, as her mother killed herself because of her. She hated Akito, hated everything he represented and the power he held over her. Why? Why did he still have control over the Cat when the Cat was just an outsider?

"What's going on?" Yuki's voice cut through her thoughts. "Did. . .?" Kyo raised her head, catching Yuki's questioning stare. The second they had entered the villa, whispers sprung out from the servants, shocked to see the Cat here. She wanted to cover her ears, scream at them to shut up, but she bit her tongue, casting her eyes to the ground as she trailed after Shigure.

"Mm, Akito called for Kyo." Shigure confirmed, stopping in the hallway. "Kyo, Akito is in the room."

Kyo stepped around him, staring apprehensive at the closed sliding door.

"So Miss Honda is left alone again. . .just like New Years." Yuki murmured. "Oh wait, she must be with your special friends, right?"

"What do you want from me?!" She spat, clenching her fists. "Don't come after me for leaving her alone, when all you guys have done for the past two days is leave her in an empty house!"

"And yet here you are too." He crossed his arms. "You're not superior to us, not even you can defy Akito's orders."

His words struck a nerve within her. All the stress and frustration she was feeling built up in her at a rapid pace, and she surged forward, reeling her fist back to swing.

Yuki did not move.

Her palm stung, and she cradled her hand to her chest. She stared at Yuki's red cheek, evidence of her striking him. She had opened her fist at the last second, not able to stop the momentum of her swing. Her heart pounded against her chest, anger bubbling inside of her. Why didn't he move? Why is he staring at her with such dull eyes?

"Fuck!" Her legs moved forward, walking away from them both to the room that Akito was in. She spared no glance back and slid the door open, stepping through the threshold.

"My pitiful monster. . ." Akito crooned. He was seated on the window sill, his black haori** slipping down his shoulders. "We haven't talked in a while. Shut the door."

Against her better judgment, she did.

---

The room was dark, only illuminated by the sunlight entering through the open window. It unnerved her; it felt like she was one second away from being swallowed by the darkness.

"Your bet against Yuki. . .What's your progress?" Akito slid his foot against the sill, bringing it toward him to rest his cheek against his knee. She kept quiet. The mocking smirk on his face was enough to know he already knew the answer to that question. "Impossible, isn't it? I knew it. You can't beat him, no matter what you do or how much you train." He let out a strew of giggles. "I told you, since the very beginning, the Cat can never beat the Rat. It's been predestined! It's the burden you bear as the Cat Spirit, the neverending cycle of always being behind the Rat. It's. . .determined by blood."

Kyo cast her eyes away, grimacing. When she had returned from her trip in the mountains, she had met with Akito for the first time in a decade. That conversation went downhill pretty quick. Akito had pushed her too far and she had attacked him, grabbing him by his kimono to pull him to her face.

"Fuck this destiny bullshit! I'll destroy it all and prove to you all it's worth nothing!" She panted, tightening her hold on him. "I'll beat that stupid Rat, I swear I will!"

Akito raised his head, finally meeting her eyes with a crazed glint flashing in his. "Is that so?" The corners of his lips twisted up. "Let's make a bet. If you can win a fight against Yuki before your high school graduation, then I'll let you become one of the twelve Zodiac and stop calling you a monster."

Her breath hitched. One of the twelve. . . "I–"

"Of course, if you fail, then you'll be placed in that room immediately after graduation and imprisoned for life!" A slew of giggles escaped from Akito's lips. "If you can't win, then you'll be proving you're truly nothing more than trash."

The layers of his kimono slipped through her fingers as she took a step back. It wasn't the threat of being imprisoned for life that shook her to her core; it was how soon she would be facing it if she failed. Even Kazuma's grandfather had been in his 30's by the time he was sentenced to the Cat's Room. She would never have a chance to live before being enchained to Akito, until the day she dies.

But she could have a chance to be one of the twelve. . .

"Deal."

"It seems like I've won the bet. . ." Akito whispered, lifting a hand up to the wind chime that gently swayed in the cool breeze.

Kyo shook her head, holding her palm out in a stopping motion. "Wait a sec, why are you calling it now? You said the deadline was graduation, remember? I still have time!"

His long nails tapped against the wind chime, sliding his fingers around it and ripping it off the window. "Remember? I think it's you who doesn't remember."

Sharp pain exploded out of her left cheek and eye, blinding her for a second. She fell on her ass, holding the side of her face in pain. A ringing echoed in her head–no. It was coming from the ground where the wind chime was rocking side to side.

"Dear monster, it's clear to me now that you've forgotten so many things. . ." From her right eye she could see Akito adjusting his clothes that got ruffled. He stepped off the window sill, feet padding lightly on the floor. "So many misunderstandings. . .You are a monster; you were born one and will die as one. And you were the very thing that caused your mother's tragic death."

"No. . ." Her voice sounded so small even to her, and she flinched as he gripped her wrist, prying it away from her eye. There was a brief second of relief to discover she still had her sight, although it still throbbed terribly. "It-it's not my fault!"

"Of course it is, it was you!" His black eyes froze her in place. "It was all your fault! You killed her!"

Ba-bump. Ba-bump. Ba-bump.

"Stop it!" Her voice rose to a higher pitch. "Stop it, don't touch me!"

"Don't order me around." His venomous tone frightened her, and she stopped moving, swallowing her words. "It's pitiful really, the way that you still believe you have any chance at beating Yuki. No matter what you do, no matter how long you train in the mountains, you will never beat Yuki! That is your destiny, to always be behind the Rat!" He clicked his tongue. "And your poor mother, having the burden of birthing a monster like you. And to think she still was able to overcome her disgust to try and nurture you. Ha! She couldn't take it any more in the end and had to kill herself. . .And all her nurturing was for nothing; a monster who didn't shed a single tear at her funeral!"

Ba-bump ba-bump ba-bump

"Kyo, do you understand? Look at me!"

Kyo tilted her head up, glaring at her father instead of the ground. They had just returned from burying her mother, and he had finally spoken to her after a morning of silence.

"Do you understand what your mother did? She didn't die of natural causes, she killed herself." Her father was directing a worse glare at her, lips pulled back over his teeth in disgust. "She killed herself because of you!"

Her eyes grew large, speechless.

"Of course a monster like you doesn't understand. You don't know how to feel sadness or guilt!"

I killed her. It was me.

"You're better off dead." Akito whispered.

"Please. . .stop it. . ."

"The world would be happier without you in it!"

Ba-bumpba-bumpba-bump

"Shut up!" She cried out, squeezing her eyes shut. Silence rang out in the room, only broken by her panting.

Akito dropped her wrist harshly and stood up, smirking at her trembling form.

"You know, I thought sending you to Ouran Academy would be beneficial, but all I'm seeing now is you're having more misunderstandings than in Kaibara." Akito sighed. "It's not only Tohru Honda's fault you're like this, but all those silly boys you keep throwing yourself at."

Her eyes cracked open.

"Tohru Honda is one thing, I mean, when I heard that she didn't flinch when she saw your true form, ha!" Akito covered his mouth to laugh. "How humane of her. It's almost. . .angelic? Or maybe it's because she, too, is a monster? A monster for a monster!"

"How. . .how do you know that?" She sat up, staring up at him. Who told him that Tohru saw her true form?

"That must be it." He continued, not giving her any sign he heard her. "Any normal person would have run for their life after seeing a hideous thing like that, but she ran toward it!"

"Why are you saying these things!" She shouted, pushing herself off the ground to face Akito. "You weren't there, you have no way of knowing what she felt! You have no idea of how terrified she was of me, how much she cried and trembled at the sight of me!"

Akito scowled, bringing his hands up to his ears. "You're too noisy."

"I kept pushing her away and she kept getting up and holding onto me for dear life! She kept holding on because–"

"You're too noisy!" She stepped forward, holding Akito's wrists, trying to make him listen.

"–she stayed because–!"

"AH! Noisy! Shut up!" Akito thrashed to escape her hold, giving her a backhand to the face.

She hit the floor with a loud thud, a cry spilling out her mouth. She stared blankly at the wall across from her, cheek pressed against the floor. Tohru had known that if she let Kyo go then, she would never come back. She was scared, but she stayed, begging Kyo to go home with her. Everytime anyone had seen her true form, they never looked at her the same way. But Tohru did. She stayed by her side, still viewed her as Kyo, and didn't offer any lies to take away her pain, like her mother. Tohru stayed because was kind, naive, stupid, selfless! She was like the fool traveler from Momiji's story. . .always giving and never taking.

Tears welled up in her eyes. Tohru did all that and more for her, because she loved and cared for her. . .And Kyo did too. She had never felt such familial love as she did when she was with Tohru, not even to the same extent as she did with Kazuma.

"It's those boys that are making you act this way, isn't it?" Akito was oblivious to her turmoil, using his foot to shove her body. "A year ago you would have never acted this way, but here we are. Was it Tohru Honda, or those boys, hm?"

". . ."

Kyo held back a whimper when her hair was yanked back, lifting her head off the ground.

"Answer me! Which one of those boys did you let fuck you to start acting this way? It was the one with glasses, wasn't it? Or the short one? Or don't tell me, you let all of them fuck you!" He tightened his grip.

"Please stop saying these things!" Her voice cracked, pushing herself onto her forearms to lessen the pull. "No one fucked me!" She sobbed.

"Kyo, why are you crying?" It felt like whiplash from how soft his voice turned once he saw her tears, releasing her.

She scrambled to her feet, roughly wiping the tears from her face, and regretting the motion as her cheek stung. She tasted blood in her mouth, the sting in her lip letting her know it must have been from the slap or fall. Humiliation burned inside of her. She must look so pathetic, breaking down into tears from his words. Yuki was right; she wasn't better than the others, she was just like them. Her being the Cat always had her naively believing that just because she wasn't a part of the Zodiac, meant that Akito never had a true hold over her. Standing here now, injured and feeling like she was worthless, it was more than clear that she was enchained to the curse. At the end of the day, she was always going to fear God and obey him.

Hiccupping with another sob, she covered her mouth to smother it, staring at Akito in horror. "Why. . .why did you allow Tohru to live with us? Why did you transfer me to Ouran? What are you trying to do?!" None of it had made sense from the start. There was no need to allow Tohru to keep her memories, for her to move to Ouran instead of an all girls school. What was the end goal? How was he using Tohru?

"Of course you assume I'm the villain." His face was wiped of any emotion, eyes half-lidded. "You always blame others for your mistakes, don't you. Tell me Kyo, why are you so emotional about these people, these outsiders ?" He took a step toward her. "Do you love them more than me? Which one of those boys do you like? Or is it Tohru that you have feelings for?"

It felt like her heart was seconds away from beating out of her chest. She cast her eyes down, afraid Akito would look into her eyes and know about Mitsukuni. Mitsukuni. . .He didn't have to suffer because of her. She could tell him they can't be anything more than friends, let him find someone normal he can be with, someone who wouldn't transform into an animal if they touched. But she was selfish. She wanted to be selfish and stay by his side because. . .she loved him. No matter how much she lied to herself, she knew she was falling for him each day that passed.

At the end of the day, she was always going to fear God. . .but she did not need to obey him.

"Whose fault is it for dragging everyone into this mess?"

". . .It's mine."

"What was that?"

"I. . .I said it's my fault." She raised her voice. "Because of me, I accidentally revealed the secret to Tohru and brought her into our world."

"Those boys are to blame too–"

"It's me!" She shut her eyes, shaking her head. "I was the one to approach them and begged them to let me join their group. I was just lonely, but it was a mistake. I. . .don't like Tohru, and I definitely don't like those boys. I could never love anyone, and I never will in my entire life! Love is useless!"

Akito seemed pleased with her words. "I see. . .I'm so glad this misunderstanding was cleared." He stepped toward her, cupping her cheeks to make her meet his gaze. She struggled to keep a calm face, his eyes so dark there was no reflection. "You made the right choice, a monster can never love or be loved. . .Since we both know you can never win against Yuki, it's settled. You'll be confined once you graduate." Her knees buckled at the news, sending her back to the ground. Akito made no move to catch her. "This is for the best. You keep making problems for everyone around you, it would be better if you just disappeared for good. But don't worry, I will still visit you." He crouched down, embracing her into his arms. "You won't be lonely anymore, because I will be by your side. I have neglected you for too long. I. . .love you? I really love you. . .Kyo. Until we meet again, do your best to be on your best behavior, savor the little time you have left on the outside."

She stared at nothing, her mind numb. Akito's words filled her with such dread, such terror for what was to be the rest of her life.

---

Kyo sat on the stone ledge separating the beach and the main road, trying to gather her wits. Her arms hugged her knees to her chest, squeezing tightly in a sad attempt of comfort. What just happened? How did it end with her fate of confinement being sealed?

Tohru. . .Mitsukuni. . .Kazuma. . .They'll be so disappointed in her. Not any more than she was with herself. Why did she have to keep making mistakes? Yuki had told her to not make a fool out of herself, and the second she stepped in there, that's exactly what she did. Her mother should have killed her instead of herself.

" Are you going to trample on the flowers to keep moving forwards?" Kazuma spoke up a few feet away.

Kyo didn't (couldn't) look up at him. She glared at the bundle of dandelions sprouting up from the ground in the middle of the road. The dirt was cold under her bare feet, staining them brown, the same as the rest of her clothes and body.

"Why?" She rasped out, throat strained from all the yelling. "Why should I have to worry about anybody else but me? If I don't step on it, then someone else will. . .Why. . .What's the meaning of existing if I would have to sacrifice others? T-taking someone else's life so I can exist, taking their precious thing–"

"Then why are you still existing?" He countered. "You still exist because you still want to live, you have hope. You still believe not everyone will cast you out."

She had thought she had run out of tears. "There's no one out there like that. . ." "There is!" ". . .And I don't have any hope."

"Not now, but in the future you will."

She hated Kazuma in that brief second. She hated how he had an answer for everything and how calmly he spoke. "I don't!" She shouted, stomping on the flower. The flower still stayed intact, infuriating her. She got on her knees, clawing at the dirt to pull it out of the ground, pushing more dirt under her nails. The ripped pieces fell to the ground, joining her scorching tears.

"Just like you will have despair now, in the future you will not. Despair exists in this world, no matter how much you try to evade it; hope will exist as well."

Shishou. . . She almost tripped from how fast she got off the ledge. I understand what you meant back then! She walked down the road, her legs moving faster and faster until the salty air was whistling in her ear. Kazuma was right; rejection will always exist in the world, but so will hope. There will be someone who won't reject her, who will reach out a hand to her. Two people actually– no, possibly more!

She can't change the past, or what happened with Akito – she already messed that up. But she can do her best with the time she has left to protect her favorite people. . .to keep the promise she made all those years ago. She won't trample on the flowers that bloom anymore.

Following the road back to the Sohma villa, she skidded to a stop once she spotted the group of people on the beach, Takashi being the most visible. Hurrying down the stairs, her eyes softened at Tohru and Mitsukuni, both of them sitting on the sand. The rest were sitting on lounge chairs they must have brought with them.

"Tohru! Mitsukuni!" She called out, hurrying across the final stretch of sand. Everyone began to turn at the sound of her voice, but she fell to her knees, wrapping her hands around Tohru's waist, burying her face into her shoulder blades.

"Oof!" Tohru squeaked, not expecting the added weight. It wasn't her at all to hug people willingly, after all. "Kyo, you're back early!"

"Kyo!" "Senpai!" "Kyon!"

Giving Tohru an extra squeeze, she let go, raising her head to look at everyone finally. She was confused when their smiles dropped, horror and concern replacing their happiness.

"Oh my God. . ."

She couldn't tell who spoke as all their voices blended into one. Touching her face, she winced, having forgotten her injuries. She never had a chance to find a mirror, and it must have been worse than it felt. "Guys, it's okay, I just got into a fight with Akito. . ."

"You said he doesn't hurt you." Mitsukuni's voice cut through everyone else, and her gaze fell onto him, wincing at the fury she saw.

"I know but this is nothing–"

"Kyo, this isn't nothing! Your eyes are red, you were crying!"

"Stop it–"

"Senpai, we need to do something, you can't just expect us to just let this slide?" Kaoru cut her off.

"Yeah, we should call the cops–"

"Stop!" She shouted, holding out her hands. "Guys, just–let me speak, okay?" She took a second to gather herself. "There was an argument that happened between me and Akito, and it ended up with him throwing something at me. . .and I ended up crying. But I'm okay. I swear I am."

"Kyo. . ." Tohru whispered, wringing her hands. "I thought things were finally changing for the better. . ."

"That's just it, it's never going to change! I'm always going to be black sheep of the family!" Kyo ran her fingers through her hair. "But you guys, you can't try to do anything about this. It'll only make it worse for everyone if you do." She looked at Mitsukuni at that, trying to get him to read between the lines. His mouth parted in shock, eyebrows lifting. "Akito said I don't have to go back, so I'm not going to be near him again."

Haruhi seemed ready to continue arguing, but was stopped by Tamaki's hand on her shoulder. "Listen, Kyo. We're all worried for you, but. . .if you don't want us to do anything, then we won't. Just promise us you'll ask for help when you need it."

She took a moment to make eye contact with all of them, acknowledging just how ready they were to come to her rescue. She could just cry again. "You guys. . .I really appreciate it. Thank you for being my friend."

Tohru laced her fingers through hers. "Let's go home? We should put some ointment on that bruise and cut."

"Okay." Graduation. She was going to cherish the remaining time she had left and remain by their side.

---

Momiji had caught her alone that same night, while the Zodiacs and Tohru were downstairs.

He didn't ask about her bruise. As expected, when the rest of the Sohmas arrived, they already knew of her interaction with Akito; or more like, they heard. She didn't imagine there would be no one who could hear the screams and thuds going on in the room. She was only going to her room to grab a hoodie, since she was going next door to hang out with her friends more. She was avoiding the Zodiacs like the plague, not in the mood to see their pitiful stares.

"Are you going back tomorrow?" Momiji stood in front of her as she leaned against the wall.

She inspected her nails, rubbing the pad of her thumb against the chipped nail of her middle finger. Must have broken earlier. "No."

He sighed in relief, grinning. "That's great!" He hesitated, biting his lip. "Is. . .is it bad that I think that way? Are you mad?"

Dragging her eyes up to meet his, she shrugged. "Why would I be mad? It seems I misunderstood why Tohru was left alone. . ."

"Yes, you understand now, ja ? If any of us choose Tohru over Akito, he would get really angry, and he would hate her even more."

"You guys. . .you stayed with him to protect her." She should have realized sooner.

A cold chuckle left Momiji's lips, catching her off guard. He laced his fingers behind his back, shaking his head. "Don't. . .don't say it like it was a good deed that we did. We still aren't doing the right thing, this is just the best we can do at the moment. I feel bad that it came to this. I was selfish and I wanted to create memories with Tohru. I like her a lot, and I was too selfish."

Kyo gave him an empathetic smile. "I've been kind of selfish myself. About a lot of things actually."

"What did Akito get mad about?" So he was going to ask after all.

". . .More like what didn't he get mad about." She mumbled. "He. . .just made me realize a few things. I don't want to talk about it."

"Momiji-kun, Kyo-kun!" Both of them straightened as Tohru came around the corner.

"Tohru-kun!" Momiji brightened, skipping over to her side. "Kyo was picking on me!"

"Eh?"

Kyo rolled her eyes, kicking off the wall to go into her room.

"I came to tell you that the anime is starting."

"Oh, Mogeta! Let's go!"

---

"Tamaki, we're done playing rich man, poor man! You keep whining every time you lose." Kyo deadpanned, dropping her cards on the floor. Mitsukuni giggled, scooping up her cards to shuffle them back into the deck.

"That's because I'm sure you're cheating! There's no way you can win that many times in a row!" He sulked, pointing an accusing finger at her.

"Sure. It's almost twelve anyways, I'm gonna head back soon." It had been hours since she got there, and thankfully she had been able to take her mind off of earlier. They were all crowded in the same bedroom she had spoken to Mitsukuni in before, which she now knew was Takashi's. Even though the night was cool, it was hot with their body heat and they had the windows open to let the air in.

"Senpai's right. We should all go to bed soon or else we'll be tired tomorrow." Haruhi nodded, as always the voice of reason.

"It's still early!" Hikaru protested.

Kyoya scowled. "I need to sleep." For some reason that alone was enough to placate Hikaru, and he pouted, crossing his arms.

Haruhi sighed, collecting their empty tea cups onto a tray and standing up. She froze, cocking her head. "Do you guys hear that?"

"Hear what?" Kaoru asked.

"Someone's shouting." She set down the tray, moving to the window. "Kyo-senpai, it's Momiji-san!"

Kyo was alarmed, getting to her feet and walking to Haruhi's side. Looking out the window, her blood ran cold. What was Akito doing here? From where they stood, she could see his side profile glaring at Momiji, who had his hands spread out, preventing him from entering the villa. "Oh my god. . ." She barely felt the others crowding on the other side of Haruhi. "Turn off the light."

"What–"

"Turn it off!" She hissed, frantic. Darkness surrounded them instantly.

"Who is that?"

"That's Akito, isn't it?" Kyoya murmured. Kyo didn't bother answering.

"Then wake her up!" Akito shouted below. The silence of the night carried the voices up to them easily, more so when they shouted. Kyo covered her mouth, eyes wide in fear that Akito was looking for her again.

Momiji shook his head. "I can't let you pass. Akito. . .You're in a bad mood, right? I can't let you meet her like that. Once you're in a bad mood, you lose your temper." Akito was trying to meet Tohru. That didn't make Kyo feel better. Why was he here so late? "Has something happened? Why are you so angry?"

Akito scoffed. "'Has something happened?' Why? What could you do even if you knew?" He smirked. "Are you. . .trying to understand me?" He moved forward, punching Momiji hard enough to make him stumble. "Understand?! You're only looking down on me!" Momiji took the hit in silence, clutching at his jaw. Akito grabbed Momiji's collar, shaking him. "Placing yourself in a higher position, just so you can mock me!"

"I need. . .I need to–" Kyo couldn't finish her sentences. She needed to do something.

"Please stop!" Tohru ran out from the side of the villa, pushing herself between the two, facing Akito. "Please, stop it. . ." Momiji looked terrified for Tohru, clutching the back of her pajamas.

"Are you. . .trying to order me around?" Akito's voice held pure disbelief, smiling. "You really make me sick! Honda Tohru, I came to see you, but you're very rude." Just as quick as he punched Momiji, he reached his arms out, grabbing Tohru by her face and jerking her close to him. " Don't get so full of yourself, you stupid bitch! If you think you've saved Yuki and Kyo, then you should be ashamed of yourself for your pride! Let me fill you in on a little secret about Kyo. . ."

She wouldn't know it at that moment, but both she and Momiji moved in sync. She turned around, forgetting about her friends and ignoring their shouts of confusion as she sprinted out of the room, almost leaping down the stairs to make it to the backyard quicker.

"Once she graduates from high school, she'll be imprisoned!" Akito finished. His voice dropped down to a whisper, digging his nails into Tohru's cheeks. "Just like the one before her, for the rest of her life. Forever. The same with Yuki and all the others. They'll be by my side, until death, a never ending banquet. All the members of the Zodiac, all in the same place, no struggles, forever without change. . .and you can't join us."

Kyo jumped the small fence between the two villas, coming to a stop. Akito had let go over Tohru, letting her hair run through his fingers.

"Akito. . ." She called out, but was ignored.

". . .Is that really happiness?" Tohru asked. Her eyes filled with tears, staring up at Akito. "To be imprisoned. . .All the Sohmas. . .Can you really call that happiness?"

"Why are you treating it as something bad?" Akito countered. "Don't try to attempt to understand us, you're just an outsider living in a different world than the Sohmas." Droplets of rain began to fall, soon engulfing all of them in the rain.

"Akito!" Kyo stepped closer, but the icy glare he threw at her kept her in place.

"And who's rescue are you coming to Kyo? Mine or Tohru–"

"Who are you?" Tohru interrupted him, dragging his attention back to her. ". . .What's your role with the Zodiacs?"

Akito's lips curled up into a sneer. "My role?. . .To the twelve Zodiacs, I'm the closest thing to being God. I am the Spirits' Master, the one who gathers all of the spirits."

The trees rustled, revealing a man as he pushed branches out of the way. Kyo was taken aback, who was this man? "Akito. . .I was looking everywhere for you. You'll catch a cold." She suppressed a gasp. This was–

"Sorry Kureno. . ." Akito purred, moving back to lean against him. "I wanted to meet her no matter what. I was just about to leave. Let me introduce you. . .This is Kureno Sohma. . .The Rooster."

He was a mystery among the Zodiacs. The same age as Shigure, Hatori, and Ayame, but he was always isolated from everyone; She almost forgot there was a Rooster if it weren't for Hatsuharu.

Kureno turned his head to the side, meeting her gaze dead on. Kyo blinked rapidly; was he always so cold looking? There was no emotion in his eyes, no sign of recognition that he knew who she was. But he had to. Everyone always knew what she was so they could avoid or ridicule her. He looked away, going back to watch Akito as he whispered something in Tohru's ear.

Akito pulled back, leaving Tohru to fall to her knees. Kyo took a step out of instinct, inhaling sharply as Akito laid his eyes on her. "Intervene one more time, Kyo. . ." He trailed off, not needing to finish the threat. He moved his gaze above her head, where she knew her friends were still watching. He said nothing more, letting Kureno steer him away.

Kyo waited anxiously for Akito to disappear completely, clutching at her chest. What was she thinking? She came down here, to what? Push Akito away and prove that she did actually care for Tohru? She didn't even have the courage to do that! She ended up just watching him say all those things to her. Her inability. . .it really made her want to puke!

"'Tori, I can handle a simple wound like this, you need to leave with Akito, right?" Shigure's voice snapped her back to reality. He and Hatori were by Tohru's side, helping her back to her feet and looking at the scratch marks on her cheek.

"He can wait a while." Hatori rebuffed.

Tohru looked between the two frantically. "Hatori-san, shigure-san! What are you two doing here?"

Shigure rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "Momichi*** came to get us. He was so pale I was wondering what happened."

Feeling a presence, she found Momiji next to her, eyes dull.

"Momiji. . ."

He looked up, lip trembling. His cheek was red and swollen. "I. . .I tried to do the right thing. . ." He broke down into tears, covering his face in shame like a child. He was only a year younger than her, he was a child. They all were! They shouldn't have to worry about protecting Tohru, or worry about what is going to set Akito off next. Why was it up to them?!

Kyo sniffled, leaning in to wrap her arms around Momiji. He froze against her, before he lifted his arms to hug her back, squeezing tightly as he cried into her shoulder. His sobs filled the air, mixing with the rain.

"Momiji-kun!" Tohru ran towards them, grasping at his hand.

From this position she could glance back to her friends, unable to tell what they were feeling. Shame grew in her belly, and she dropped her head, gently herding Momiji and Tohru inside.

---

'I'm sorry you had to witness that. Please go home, all of you.'

She turned off her phone after she sent that text to Mitsukuni. She couldn't face them right now; how could she? All that talk of downplaying what Akito did, and to then witness exactly that? She also had no idea how much they heard. It was easy for voices to reach up to their spot, especially if it was yelled. It was getting difficult by the day to continue lying to them. Hatsuharu had slipped into her room and bed after everyone had gone back to bed. He didn't say a word, but he opened his arms out to her in a silent offer. She took it, curling into him and trembling silently from her tears.

It seems like they listened to her, as when she woke up the next day, the villa was vacant. It hurt – hypocritical of her, she knew; she couldn't demand that they leave then be sad about it when they actually did. They were respecting her wishes. . .but she still cried in the privacy of the bathroom.

Kyo walked behind their group as they walked down to the beach for the last time before they left the next morning. The sun was barely setting, but Momiji and Tohru both insisted it was okay to start the lighting the fireworks Momiji had bought. It was like last night never happened, both of their demeanors were as bright as usual. The only indication of something being wrong was their bandaged cheeks, which Hiro didn't have any problem asking about. The two said they both tripped, a lousy lie, but better than nothing.

"Which ones are we lighting first, Momiji?" Kyo held up the bag of fireworks.

"Leave that to me!" He skipped over to her, digging into the bag. "I already know which ones are gonna look so cool!"

Zu…Zu…Zu…

"Is this really cool for you?" She deadpanned, staring at the snake cracker wriggling in the sand and emitting black smoke. The children surrounded the firework, their faces wary of the thing.

"It's cool! It's worth a watch at least once!" Tohru defended.

Kyo coughed, waving her hand in front of her, trying to cut through the thick smoke. "Whatever, this smoke that emits is the worst part."

"Oh, have you seen this before?"

She nodded. "Yeah, once when I was a kid. Shishou learned that I never saw any and he bought a ton of them." Her lips twitched, recalling the fond memory. "Did you ever light one with your mother?"

Tohru smiled. "Mm-hm! It was really fun. Mama said every time she saw a fire or fight, her blood would boil."

"Right. . .I forgot about the Yankee blood in her."

Hatsuharu opened a different pack of fireworks, sliding one out and handing the rest to Yuki. "I want to do this one; Yuki, read the instructions for me."

Yuki sighed. "Shoots upward, remove from the package and light it up by the string. Warning, do not hold it in your hands or aim at people or buildings."

Looking to the side, Kyo did a double take at Hatsuharu aiming the firecracker at her. "Hey! Point that shit away from me!"

"It's okay Kyo, I believe you can dodge it." He murmured, flicking his thumb against the lighter and creating a flame.

Kyo moved to snatch it out of his hands, glaring at him. "Stop those beliefs right now."

"Can you dodge the fireworks then?"

"No, you idiot!"

"Yay, firecrackers!" Momiji shouted, covering his ears as firecrackers popped loudly in front of him.

Kyo covered her ears, letting go of Hatsuharu to yell at Momiji.

Things eventually calmed down enough to where they began to light the real showstoppers, watching them fly up to the darkening sky and explode into bright colors. Kyo sat on the steps with everyone, next to Yuki, who had not spoken to her at all since at Akito's villa. Since she finally landed a hit on him, not that it counted.

Momiji lit a sparkler, offering it to her. Meeting his eyes, she grinned, taking it from him and staring at the blazing light.

Their trip was over. The countdown toward graduation has begun.

.

.

.

Tohru held onto her bag strap for support, feeling nervous stepping into the cafe. Maybe she shouldn't have agreed to this? Should she turn back around – Oh, wait, no she already stepped inside, that would look terrible if she did!

"Tohru-san! Over here!"

She jumped, glancing around until she found the source of the voice, offering a small smile. Making her way through the cafe, she sat down at the table. "Thank you for inviting me. . .I was surprised to receive a call from you." She brushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Can. . .can I ask why you asked to meet me here, and without telling anybody, Mitsukuni-san?"

Mitsukuni stared at her in determination, resting his hands on the table. "Tohru-san. . .please tell me everything you know about the curse and Kyo's imprisonment."

A/N: Hello hello! So I hope this 18k chapter makes up for the 5 month pause Ore-sama.* – So this is from the manga, but the translation explanation given for this is that it's just a way to refer to oneself, mainly in a joking manner to show off higher authority. haori** – Traditionally hip or thigh length jackets worn over Kimonos, traditionally only worn by men before women began to wear them in the 1930s. Momichi*** – A nickname Shigure calls Momiji. So the summer house arc is over! I didn't expect it to be 18k words, but there was a lot to cover, and I have been excited for this moment since I first started this story. Sorry that I excluded Karuizawa, but honestly it was going to extend this chapter even more, and I didn't find that it fit well with the plot. But hopefully the angst of this chapter and the small comedic relief scenes lessen the pain. I knew what I had in mind for this chapter, but it was just the writer's block that wasn't letting me type it out. Anyways, a special thanks to FreakazoidR17CR-5 here on FFN for helping me get through the writers block and also review this chapter for me! I want to try to get the next chapter out soon, but we'll see how I do. Please let me know your thoughts and comments~