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

12. Chapter 12

TW: Suicide Ideation

---

Kyo yawned.

The sun felt wonderful on her skin, and she greedily soaked it in as she laid on the roof of the house. Her thumb clicked the button on her MP3 Player, skimming songs until she found one she liked. The song started to play through her earphones, and she closed her eyes. Summer break was nearly ending, and she didn't know if she should be glad to go back to school. Things had been. . .weird between her and her friends ever since that last night at the villa. She sent them packing that very night and she hasn't seen them since. Anxiety had built up within her, worried that it was the last straw for them, but they all continued to message her as though nothing had gone wrong. Mitsukuni had backed off too, only giving her a message of his support. The anxiety lessened, more so as they kept sending her memes and funny videos, but there was still the lingering feeling that they were going to distance themselves from her any day now.

She sighed. Worrying about this wasn't helping, especially if she wasn't going to talk to them about it. Being ignorant of the issues that were blaring in her face seemed like the best choice for her at the moment. She didn't want to confront the reality of it all.

Akito abused the Zodiacs.

He wasn't a kind person to begin with, there was no use in trying to defend him even if she wanted to. Akito had always been this type of person. But up until that day she had thought it was only verbal insults and threats that he would throw at them; she didn't know he could be violent. She didn't think she could have known – everything involving the Zodiacs tended to be swept under the rug, and any whispers of them were told behind closed doors. But it got her thinking about other things. Like Rin. She never asked Haru how she ended up in the hospital, and it sent a chill down her spine at the thought of Akito being responsible for it.

If Akito was capable of blinding and putting his special Zodiacs in the hospital, then what was stopping him from doing worse to the cat?

"Kyo, my love!" Kagura's voice cut through the music, jolting her out of her thoughts.

She pulled on the cable, popping the earphones out. Kagura. She hadn't gone to the villa thankfully, but she had texted Kyo incessantly for weeks, trying to hang out with her. She replied with little enthusiasm, hoping she would soon get the hint. She clearly didn't.

"Kyo, I know you're around here, Yuki said you haven't left!"

Kyo rolled her eyes. Fucking rat.

Rising to her feet, she walked to the edge of the roof where the ladder was, taking her time to climb down. She was still a few feet off the ground when arms slid around her waist, pulling her off the ladder. Kagura swung her around, squeezing her. "There you are! My love, it's been too long!"

"Ack! Kagura, let me go!" She shouted, tugging at Kagura's arms. The tightness around her stomach was uncomfortable, and the more she struggled, the more Kagura seemed to tighten her grip.

"Aw, you're no fun!" She let go abruptly. Kyo hissed in pain as her ass connected with the ground.

Kyo scowled, righting herself and facing Kagura. "What do you want?" Kagura paused as she regarded her, eyes landing on her cheek. Kyo raised a hand, fixing her hair to cover her bruise. It was an ugly thing, in the yellow-green phase of healing. "What do you want?" She repeated, voice sharp.

Recovering quickly, Kagura held out both her hands. "Where's my souvenir from your trip?"

She scoffed. "Souvenir? I didn't get you one."

Kagura glared, gripping her shirt in her fist and yanking her forward, their noses touching. "And why not?! Is this how you treat a lover, huh?!" She shook her roughly. "You should show your girlfriend some more respect!"

"Kagura–" "You don't call, you don't text, you even ignore me!" "Stop–!"

"All I do for you and this is the thanks I get–"

"Stop!" It took all her strength to rip her hands off, shoving her away. Kagura's hands curled defensively toward her chest, blinking doe-eyed at her. Silence rang for a few seconds as Kyo took a few breaths. "Kagura, there's something I've been meaning to tell you for a long time now."

A strange expression flickered across Kagura's face, before she shook her head and smiled. "Let's go on a date!"

"What? Are you even listening to what I said? I'm not messing around."

"I'm not either!" Kagura turned away from her, crossing her arms. "Go on a date with me, and only then will I hear you out! If you don't, then you can forget me ever listening to you!"

Irritation bloomed.

---

Despite her reluctance for this date, she put on a nice pair of jeans and a floral blouse. The blouse was actually Tohru's, and she snuck it from her closet while she was gone. Her bruise still looked ugly, but she had no clue how to cover it up. It was just Kagura anyways.

Readjusting her tote bag, she spotted Kagura sitting down on a bench alone, holding her purse in her bag. She wore a long sleeve and a skirt with knee-high boots to match her outfit. She definitely looked more put together for a date than Kyo was.

Kagura spotted her, jumping up and waving. "Kyo! You're here like you said you would–and on time!"

"Can you lower your voice?" She sighed, stopping in front of her.

"You're on time, but I came 30 minutes early, what do you think about that?" Kagura winked, wagging a finger side to side.

"I'd say you shouldn't have come so early." She leaned back to gain more distance, checking her watch to see if there was any chance hours moved rapidly in seconds.

Pouting, Kagura straightened up. "You have no energy at all. . .We're finally going on a date, you should have a little more enthusiasm!"

Her eyebrows bunched together. "Look, can we just get on with this? We're only here because that was your condition to talk to me, so don't expect me to be happy about this." She had better things to do. "I didn't plan anything, but I'm guessing you did?"

". . .Yeah, I have." Kagura pursed her lips. "At first I thought of going to a movie, but I didn't think you'd be interested!"

"Yeah, I'm not."

"So you still don't watch a lot of TV then?" Her voice softened drastically. ". . .You know no one will get angry anymore if you do, right?"

The words died on her tongue. Her hand tightened around her bag strap, hating her tone of voice, hating her words. There was no reason for her to bring that up–

Hands wrapped around her free arm, Kagura demanding her attention as she led them through the streets. Her comment was left in the wind as the subject was changed. Kyo felt uncomfortable as Kagura slid her hand down and interlocked their fingers. She wasn't Tohru, who gently touched her with care, or Mitsukuni who held her in a tender grip so she could move away if she wanted to. Kagura held on with a bruising grip, like she was afraid she would leave, fingers clenched even though her own were not closed. This was not a new phenomenon, she had always been this way, invading her personal space without a thought of what she wanted. But there was a brief moment in time when she liked that about her and craved it.

.

.

.

The stick dug into the dirt, carving a round line. Kyo tried to keep a steady hand as she carved, knowing this picture would be better than the last.

"Kyo?" Her head shot up, surprised to see an older girl at the entrance to her property. "You're Kyo the Cat, right? I'm Kagura–" At the mention of her spirit form, fear spiked. She shot up from the ground, running in the opposite direction. "Hey!"

A hand caught her ankle, cutting off her momentum. She slammed into the ground roughly. "Oof!"

"Why'd you run away?" Kagura whined, easily dragging her back to the original spot.

"My mom doesn't like me talking to people. . .I'll get in trouble." She mumbled into the dirt.

"No, it's okay! I'm one of the twelve, the Boar, and I'm six!" Kagura let her go, allowing Kyo to sit up and wipe the dirt off her face as she looked up at Kagura properly. She was wearing a pretty floral dress and pink shoes, nothing like Kyo's baggy shorts and sweater. She felt envious; she wanted to wear pretty clothes too, but her mom always said she was pretty enough without those types of clothes. But she didn't feel pretty dressing and cutting her hair like a boy.

Kyo didn't respond, picking up her trusty stick to continue drawing. Maybe if she ignored Kagura she would go away.

"What are you drawing? Eggs? Fried eggs? Do you like them?" Questions flowed out at a rapid pace, but Kyo had no desire to answer them. "I've seen you before. You're always playing alone, don't you have any friends?"

Annoying.

Kagura was annoying.

Why wasn't she going away?

"What cartoon do you like? I like Hamtaro!"

Her lips parted. "I don't. . .watch TV. . ."

"Huh?"

Her eyes stayed glued to the ground. "My mom gets angry. . .too many bad things on TV."

A pause. "Then do you want to play with me?"

Drifting upward, she met Kagura's big brown eyes. "Really. . .?!"

She smiled, reaching out to grab her hand. "Yeah! From now on I'll stay with you! I promise!"

Liar.

Kyo slowed down as they walked up the stairs, staring at the top of the hill. Kagura let go of her hand finally, walking further.

"You figured it out? It's been a long time since we've been here, huh? There's a lot of memories we created. . ."

It wasn't a playground, although they treated it as one. It was a grassy area that held a few logs and trees, overlooking the property of the Sohma residence of the lower branch. Kagura was the one to show her this spot, when they began to play together.

Her sneakers crushed the overgrown grass, trailing after Kagura.

"I know you might not want to be here, since the Sohma properties are just down there. . .and this is where I saw your true form."

Her feet stopped moving. Bile rose in the back of her throat, a now familiar anxiety running through her chest and limbs. Her gaze dropped down to where a dandelion stood an inch away from her shoe.

Kagura had been curious about her bracelet from the start, asking about it constantly and touching it even when Kyo expressed her dislike of it. She would back off for a while before trying again. She should have known Kagura wouldn't let it go, but she had only been four years old, how could she?

She almost cried when Kagura had gripped the beads, demanding to let her wear it, even as she fought to keep it. It had slipped off her wrist and she transformed into that beast. It had been the first time someone other than her parents had seen her true form, only a few months before Akito did. Only a year before her mother would commit suicide.

Kagura had only reacted like a normal child would when faced with a monster – screaming in terror and running away.

"Your mother. . .she kept you inside after that, hardly letting you go out–especially with me." Kagura continued. "And you started avoiding me as well. You distanced yourself." No, she had protected herself. "I. . .was unhappy being born as one of the twelve possessed by the spirits. I felt like it was my fault that my parents fought constantly, and seeing my mom cry afterwards. . .I felt really sad. I hated myself and I was afraid. That's why. . .on the day we met, I was happy!" Kagura sniffled, sitting down on a log. "I was comforted by the fact that compared to the Cat, my life was nowhere near as miserable. When I realized that, that's why I was able to be with you, because I was looking down on you. . ."

Her heart felt like it dropped down to the pits of her stomach.

She couldn't breathe.

Her eyes slowly lifted up, landing on Kagura. Kagura kept her head down, as if she couldn't bear to meet her eyes.

How pathetic did she look to Kagura? She was starved for affection and greedily accepted any hugs and touches Kagura would give. All the moments of them cuddling in the grass while Kagura read to her, playing pretend in her yard, it was all pity. Did she just see a monster who no one could bring themselves to love?

"I thought that, if I came to love you, and you me, then that rift that had grown between us would be buried–and the Kagura that ran away and was mean would disappear!" Kagura bent over her lap, sobbing out the words. "Please forgive me Kyo!"

She breathed.

"No."

Kagura's head snapped up, staring at her in shock. Kyo stepped over the dandelion, meeting her puffy eyes with disdain. "I always found it weird how you became obsessed with me after that day, never respecting my boundaries, and making me uncomfortable. It makes sense now though. . . Everything you did and said to me was only selfish, a-a way to make yourself feel better! Did you think you were doing me a favor?" She took glee in how small Kagura looked, curling in on herself. "You abandoned me and you thought that because I was the Cat, I would crawl back to you because I had no one else to rely on? That I would fall in love with you?"

"N-no!"

"You're a bitch." Kagura flinched like she got slapped. It felt so liberating to be able to say that. "You're such a fucking bitch! I won't love you." A hysterical giggle slipped out of her as she bent over, resting her hands on her knees, taking deep breaths. "That's what I wanted to tell you this whole time. . .I would never love someone as shallow and manipulative as you. And I wanted to tell you gently to spare your feelings, but after hearing what you had to say, I couldn't care less!"

"Kyo, it–it was never like that!"

"It was!" Her voice cracked from how loud she shouted. She straightened up, her hands moving around in her hurry to speak. "It's always been like that since the day you saw me! Fuck what the cat felt, right? All that mattered was that the boar could feel better about their shitty life!"

Kagura's makeup was almost washed off from the amount of tears she shed.

It was time to stop pretending.

"You took advantage of me from the start! You used me for your personal desires and I'll never forgive you for that." Her lips curled up in a sneer. ". . .But. . .you were the very first friend that lonely child had. Thank you for at least giving her that experience." She admitted. She almost wished she never found this out, she had deeply cherished those memories through dark times and now she can never do so again; they were all tainted.

Kagura stood up, stumbling toward her, face scrunched up. "Kyo. . ! Kyo. . .Kyo. . ." She pleaded, grabbing her hands, bending over as she tried to speak through her tears. "I love you. I-I really do love you!"

Staring down at her sobbing form, all the conflicting emotions swirling inside her vanished. She felt nothing at all, not even a twinge of pity. Maybe Kagura did love her. Maybe that pitiful love turned real for her. But Kyo didn't want to have any part in it.

"Lose my number." Kyo ripped her hands away, turning her back on Kagura. "I don't know if I'm capable of forgiving you, I don't want to see your face around me again. Forget you even knew me."

"Kyo! Kyo, please! Come back!"

Kagura's sobs reached a higher volume as she hurried away. She didn't glance back. If she was being cruel, then so be it.

It was only once made it halfway home that her heart caught up with her mind, expelling the sob that had been trapped in her chest. Tears flooded to her eyes, obscuring her vision as she dragged herself into an alleyway. Grief ensnared her very being, threatening to choke her. Her shaking hands covered her face, doing little to smother the wail she let out, her back hitting the wall and sliding down it.

---

"Tohru-san. . .please tell me everything you know about the curse and Kyo's imprisonment."

Tohru resembled a deer in headlights. Mitsukuni tamped down on the smile that wanted to appear; this was a serious matter. He slid over the cup of tea he had ordered for her, wrapping his hand around his own.

"You know about her imprisonment?" She whispered, although it wasn't needed. The cafe he had chosen didn't have a lot of traffic this time of day, making it easier to have this conversation. Only the barista and a table in the back were in the vicinity.

Mitsukuni sighed, folding his arms over the table. "Kyo had mentioned before that when she graduates, she was to return to the Sohma Main Estate. That's all she would say about it. But from what I heard Akito say that night, it's more than that. Sorry, how's your cheek by the way? I should have asked first."

She waved her hand, cheeks flushed. "Oh, don't worry! It was only a light scratch so it healed in a few days!" She was right, her cheek bared no mark, as if Akito hadn't touched her at all.

"What about Kyo? I haven't seen her." He wanted to. He desperately wanted to see her, but he was respecting her wish for space. He had told the others to back off too, to wait for Kyo's explanation and decision. They wanted to get the police involved about the apparent abuse the Sohmas were receiving, but Mitsukuni stopped them. It took a while to convince them, but in the end he had won, just barely. He hoped he was doing the right thing by trusting Kyo to speak up if she needed help. He knew any of them would help her escape if that's what she wanted.

"Her bruising has lightened a bit, but it'll still take a few more days before it's gone." Tohru's eyes fell. "Akito threw a wind chime at her."

Mitsukuni's hand curled up. He had never felt this type of anger towards anyone in his life. He was not a violent person by nature, but he wanted nothing more than to be alone in a room with Akito for five minutes–no, one minute would do.

"I don't understand, why can't anyone defy Akito? What does he have over their heads?"

Tohru pursed her lips. "I–I don't know. . .I'm trying to figure that out. I called to meet with Kazuma a few days ago; he's currently on a trip but he's returning next week. I plan to ask him how to break the curse." She wrung her hands nervously. "All I know is that Akito said he was the Spirit Master of the Twelve Zodiacs, the one who gathers them. . .the closest thing to God to them."

His mind was reeling. The closest thing to God? If that's what he meant to the Zodiacs. . .then how can someone defy God? "Can I go with you to talk to Kazuma?"

"I don't think that's a good idea, Mitsukuni-san. . ." Tohru fidgeted in her seat.

"Please." He reached over, setting his hand over Tohru's. "I want to break this curse just as much as you do. I want to set Kyo free."

Tohru's resolve broke. "Okay. . .I'll send you his address."

He grinned.

---

The surprised look on the man's face told Mitsukuni that Tohru hadn't informed Kazuma he would be joining their meeting. He introduced himself as Kazuma's assistant, Kunimitsu. Kunimitsu slid the door open, revealing Kazuma in the middle of the room, sitting on a cushion. He was kneeled, reading a book, which he shut when they stepped in the room, calmly regarding Mitsukuni. Only one other cushion was placed in front of him.

"Shishou. . .Thank you for seeing me." Tohru bowed her head. "I'm sorry I didn't inform you beforehand, but Mitsukuni-san would also like to talk to you."

"It's quite the surprise, but it's no trouble." Kazuma smiled, gesturing for them to sit.

Mitsukuni took the cushion that Kunimitsu offered him, setting it down beside Tohru's. Sitting on his heels seiza style was second nature for him, having spent years in the dojo. He straightened his back, staring at Kazuma. "Sohma-san–"

"Please, no need to call me by my last name." Kazuma shook his head. "It's nice to see you again, Mitsukuni-san. Our conversation last time was pleasant." They had had a brief conversation about Karate the last time they had seen each other, which had been the first time they had met.

"Yes, it was." He shot him a brief grin. "Kazuma-san, I asked Tohru to let me join her today, because I wanted to talk to you about Kyo."

Kazuma's eyes turned sharp. "Oh?"

Mitsukuni cleared his throat. "A few months ago, while at a water resort with our friends, there was an incident with a lazy river. Kyo and I got swept away in the water and we almost drowned. We were alright but. . .that's when I discovered that Kyo could turn into a cat. She explained her secret to me, and I promised her I would keep it. I was also there the night her true form was revealed, but hidden, and she explained it to me again. I've kept quiet about both incidents, but after witnessing the pain she's suffering under Akito, I can't stand aside anymore. I want – no, need, to break the curse." He dug his fingernails into the palm of his hands. "Tohru and I both do. Do you know how to break it?"

His face was a blank canvas, unnerving Mitsukuni. Glancing at Tohru, she seemed to feel the same.

"The trip I just came from, I was visiting my grandfather's grave."

Mitsukuni blinked. That wasn't what he was expecting him to say.

"Oh. . .Is the Sohma family grave far from here?" Tohru asked.

Kazuma chuckled. "No no. He wasn't allowed to be buried in any of the Sohma plots. None of those possessed by the Cat Spirit are allowed. But I believe it's better this way; my grandfather is finally free from this family."

"But Kyo is free right now. . ." She whispered. "Is it true she's going to be locked away?"

"Yes. . .This way of living is not a new concept for us. The Sohmas are an ancient clan, bound by history and tradition, more so than others." Kazuma's voice was neutral. "We span back a thousand years, but the story is always the same. Thirteen people are possessed by the Zodiac Spirits, and once their God is born, it is inevitable that all will gather. Of course, it's only natural to want to oppose this, but the sad thing is, not a single Zodiac member has the strength to defy God."

"I–I don't understand." Mitsukuni frowned.

"And that's the core issue. We don't understand. Tohru, Mitsukuni. . .I've never felt afraid of Akito. To me, he's a child who only knows how to throw temper tantrums. He has a weak immune system and is mentally unstable, and as such he would never be taken seriously by anyone under normal circumstances." He exhaled softly. "To you, an outsider, you're not afraid of him. By definition, I too am an outsider, even though I know of the curse and am a Sohma. But to Kyo and the others, Akito is very special. He's like God to them, meant to be feared. We will never truly understand the bond between them, because it's their own world that can't be entered. It's a blood bond."

A blood bond?

"The bond. . .is the curse?" Tohru murmured.

"There's no physical evidence of this bond, it's only speculation at this point. I don't even know if there's a way to break this bond." Kazuma admitted. "It's only my theory, as many of the members have reasons to hate Akito, but they can never find it in them to do so."

A memory came to the forefront of Mitsukuni's mind. "That's why Hatori forgave Akito for blinding him. . ."

Tohru and Kazuma's eyes fell on him. "So she told you about that as well. . ."

"She wanted to warn me of the dangers of Akito finding out, as a way to try and convince me to leave." He confessed. "But now I can't help but wonder if maybe she was trying to push me away because she knew of her imprisonment."

"Mitsukuni. . .are my suspicions correct about you?" A suspenseful tension rose in the room.

Mitsukuni took a deep breath, placing his hands in front of his knees and leaning forward until his forehead touched the ground between them.

"Mitsukuni–"

"I love Kyo." Mitsukuni spoke loud and clear, shutting his eyes. "You might think I'm foolish for thinking this way at only eighteen years old–and maybe I am. But even if this is not love, I care deeply for her, and I hope I can marry her one day. I've seen her spirit and true form, and I don't care about any of that. I just care about Kyo. So please, Kazuma-san; if there's any chance that I can change her fate, I'm going to do everything in my power to do so."

When no one spoke, he reluctantly raised himself back to his original position, cheeks warm. Kazuma was staring at him with fond eyes, smiling.

"I always knew there was someone in this world who would accept Kyo for who she was. She never believed me when I said so. She also might not approve of me giving you my blessing; she's never been sentimental like that. But, when the time comes, please take care of my daughter. There's no one else I could entrust her with, especially if he goes as far as to give a dogeza* bow to a silly old man."

A sniffle to his side grabbed his attention. Tohru had tears running down her cheeks, covering her mouth to smother her cries.

"Tohru!"

Tohru waved her hand, trying to fan herself. She took the handkerchief Kazuma offered her, dabbing at her eyes. "I–I'm sorry! I didn't–didn't mean to cry. . .that was just so b–beautiful. . ."

Mitsukuni felt bashful, looking at his hands. That definitely wasn't something he had planned to do today, but he didn't regret it. He was confident in his feelings.

Giving Tohru a moment to recover, Mitsukuni brought the conversation back on track. "Please, Kazuma-san. Can Kyo's imprisonment be stopped?"

Kazuma's face sobered, and it seemed like he aged in an instant. "Do you know the purpose of the Cat within the Zodiac? It is a scapegoat, a way to feel grateful that they were not as stupid as the Cat, who was tricked by the Rat and missed the banquet. It is also a way to represent time. Once the Cat is imprisoned, eventually the others will follow, returning to the main estate. The Cat is the catalyst for the 'eternal banquet'. My grandfather, the previous Cat Spirit, was imprisoned at the age of thirty, and that was when the previous Zodiac members returned as well. It can not be prevented, only delayed."

"So we just sit back and let Kyo be locked away?" Mitsukuni scoffed, frustrated. He had hoped for a better answer than that.

"I've spent years trying to figure out a way to keep Kyo free." Kazuma hummed. "No ideas have formed, except breaking the curse. But no one knows how to break it, or if it's even possible."

Fuck.

"I know I have not been able to help like you wished, but if there is anything you can do for Kyo. . .stay by her side and give her a reason to keep smiling."

Mitsukuni sighed as he walked beside Tohru down the main road. "We basically got nothing to go off of, except a theory on the curse."

"Mitsukuni-san. . .did you mean what you said back there? About marrying Kyo?"

Mitsukuni wet his lips, coming to a stop. He tilted his head back, eyes trailing the moving clouds. It was a habit he was forming, imitating the one Kyo had. She always looked up at the sky to watch the clouds when she needed a moment to think. Did she even realize she did it? "Yes. I knew I wanted to marry her even before I knew the secret. But that's not something I can say to her–she would call me insane if she knew." He chuckled, looking back down to face Tohru. "Please don't tell her about this. She's already terrified of Akito finding out about us and ending up like Hatori and his fiancee."

Tohru looked worried, but she nodded. "I promise."

Gravel crunched on the ground ahead of them, catching Mitsukuni's eye. A girl with equally dark hair and eyes was walking in their direction. Her head was raised high, passing them without a glance. Mitsukuni was put off by the menacing aura she eluded, it was worse than the one Kyo first gave off. Tohru seemed to know her though, as she turned to catch up with her. "Isuzu-san!. . .It's nice to run into you. . .Isuzu-san, I hope. . ."

Isuzu tossed Tohru a withering glare. "Quit hanging around the Sohmas." She hissed, quickening her pace.

Tohru deflated, stopping and watching her walk away.

"Who was that?" Mitskuni uttered.

". . .Isuzu Sohma. Kyo and Hatsuharu call her Rin." Tohru sighed. "She's the Horse."

His eyebrows shot up to his hairline. He looked back to where she went, barely spotting her figure in the distance. She was intimidating for sure, not someone he wished to meet again.

"Thank you for letting me tag along." Mitsukuni grinned at Tohru, continuing their walk. "And thank you for not telling Kyo. . .I don't know how she'd react if she knew what we were doing."

"You mean cheating on her?"

Mitsukuni's eyes widened, twirling around and seeing his friends coming out of an alley. They wore ridiculous ninja outfits, and Mitsukuni felt stupid for not being able to see these idiots spying on him sooner. "What are you guys doing here?"

"Answer the question!" Tamaki pointed a finger at him. "How could you do this to my precious niece?!"

"What are you even talking about?!" Mitsukuni's voice raised to a higher pitch. How could his friends think he would ever cheat on her? He looked over at the group, relieved to not see Takashi with them. He would have lost it if his best friend also thought he was a cheater.

"I'm talking about this!" Tamaki dug into his back pocket, flashing a photograph of Mitsukuni and Tohru inside a cafe, his hand over hers. "This and the fact that you don't want Kyo to know you're meeting up, what else would you call that?"

Mitsukuni swiped the photo from him, staring incredulously at it. Tohru looked over his shoulder, making a small sound. It was from last week.

"How did you even get this–" He cut himself off as his eyes landed on Kyoya, who was conveniently hiding in the back. He had thought he was just being jealous for no reason, seeing Kyo bantering with Kyoya constantly. . .but maybe he had been onto something. He crumpled the photo in his fist, glaring. "I am not cheating on Kyo."

Haruhi pushed down her mask, brows pinched. "I said the same thing, Hani-senpai. There's no way you would cheat on Kyo-senpai. . .But can you please explain what's going on?"

Mitsukuni exhaled through his nose. "I asked Tohru to meet me at that cafe to talk about Kyo. And we came to her dad's house to speak to him too. I feel no romantic feelings toward my girl's best friend." He grit his teeth.

Tamaki's shoulders slumped. ". . .Oh."

"Oops." The twins spoke, having the decency to look embarrassed.

"Yeah. Oops." An awkward silence settled over them. "Can you guys leave now? I'm taking Tohru home now."

"Wait, Senpai. Why did you need to talk about Kyo? Is this about what Akito said at the Villa?" Haruhi asked. Mitsukuni was caught off guard by the question, freezing.

He and Tohru exchanged glances.

"You guys know something." It wasn't an accusation; Haruhi sounded sure of herself.

They can't find out about the curse. A million excuses ran through his mind, trying to think of anything he could tell them. What what what–

"Um. . ." Tohru interjected. "Y-yes, we were talking about Kyo. . .But Mitsukuni-san asked me to bring him to Kazuma-san's house. . .to ask for his blessing."

"Blessing? As in. . .?"

His mind cleared. Pushing his shoulders back, he stood tall, staring pointedly at Kyoya. "As in a marriage blessing. I plan to ask Kyo to marry me." He moved his gaze, glaring at every single one of them. "I don't plan to do it any time soon, so you guys better keep your mouth shut about this, or else."

Tamaki gulped, looking terrified. Good. He could always count on him to take him seriously.

The others were stunned at his words.

"Wow. . .! Congrats Hani-senpai!" Haruhi had a starry look in her eyes. "That's such a big step. . ."

"Hm." Mitsukuni felt relieved. It seems like she forgot her original question. "You guys are idiots. Next time, ask me before you decide to jump to conclusions. I'll see you guys later, alright? I really need to get Tohru back home before Kyo asks questions." He left them there, gently herding her away quickly.

When they were far enough, he ruffled his hair aggressively. "Damn! I should have known they would have done something like that."

"But how could you know? I don't even recall seeing anyone taking pictures of us. . ."

"Kyoya must have hired a PI to follow me around." The real question was, why did he do it? The cafe was the first time he had met with Tohru without Kyo around, there was no way Kyoya would have known he was doing something 'devious', unless he was trying dirt on him purposely. He bit the tip of his thumb; he would have to worry about this another time. "At least we now have an excuse we can use if any of them get more suspicious."

"I feel terrible for lying to them, but I would have felt even worse if I betrayed Kyo and told them the secret." She sighed. "Thank you for walking me home, Mitsukuni-san, I can walk the rest of the way, in case one of the Sohmas are nearby."

He nodded, watching Tohru walk away, before turning to head home.

Was there anything actually achieved today?

---

Long ago, God told all the animals he was throwing a banquet the next day and not to be late. The mischievous rat told his neighbor, the cat, that the banquet was the day after tomorrow. So, the next day, all the animals lined up for the banquet, and the rat rode there all the way on the cow's back.

All the animals had fun, except for the cat, who was at home sleeping and dreaming for a banquet that would never come. So then the cat fought the rat every time he saw him so he would be accepted with the others. **

"Mother, why do people hate the cat?" Kyo blinked up at her mother, watching as she toed off her sandals, taking the groceries to the kitchen. She had returned from the weekly shopping, and Kyo had patiently waited for her return, wondering if her mother would ever let her tag along. "They should be mad at the rat, who tricked the cat."

She said nothing for a long time, choosing to focus on putting away the groceries instead. Kyo thought perhaps her father had come home from work early, and maybe that's why she was quiet, but a quick glance at the front door indicated her father's shoes were still gone.

"Why did the cat trust the rat?"

Kyo frowned. "What?"

"Why did the cat trust the rat?" Her mother repeated, finally looking her way.

". . .I don't know."

"Because the cat was foolish." Setting down the can in her hands, she looked over her shoulder to smile at Kyo. "The cat blindly trusted the rat when he lied about when the banquet was, therefore there's no one else to blame except for the cat."

Kyo's bottom lip trembled. "But-"

"This is why you should only trust family." She crooned softly. "You can't trust anyone but your family. Friends will only betray you in the end, they always will. Just look at Mitsukuni."

Her eyes widened. "How-"

"He found out the truth and now he's gone. You trusted him and look where it got you! He thinks you're a freak!"

"He doesn't!"

"He was only by your side out of pity, just like Kagura!"

"Stop it!" Kyo clutched at her hair, crying. "Mother!"

"You should only trust your mother!" Her lips turned up in a demonic smile, sharp teeth glinting at her before she lunged.

She screamed.

Kyo gasped as she awoke in her bed, skin sticky with sweat. Looking around, she familiarized herself with her room, slowly calming down. Her nightmare was fading away the more she stood awake, but the remnants of terror were left behind.

A quick look out the window showed it was still the middle of the night, but the desire to sleep was gone now. She settled back in her bed, staring at her wall blankly and trying not to delve too much into her fears.

---

Kyo felt apprehensive, walking down the halls to her class. She was starting to feel like she was fraying at the seams, so much on her plate and this felt like it could be a last straw. Deep down she knew she was overthinking things, her friends wouldn't abandon her because of what occurred. But her body felt heavy with dread, wondering if the dark whispers in her mind were right along, that she wasn't worthy of having people by her side.

Stepping into her classroom, her eyes immediately found Tamaki's. His purple eyes brightened, and he perked up, smiling and gesturing to the empty seat between him and Kyoya. Relief flooded her, and she hurried to her seat, sliding in smoothly once he lifted his book bag off the chair.

"Hi." She set her own book bag down, glancing at both boys. Kyoya kept his face glued to his notebook, writing like his life depended on it, and Tamaki was giving her his weird puppy dog look he does when he's excited about something. "What's up with you?"

"Hm? Oh, me? Nothing." He gave her a toothy smile, turning to face the front of the classroom. After a second, he turned back towards her. "Kyo, what are your thoughts on marriage?"

A pencil snapped in half.

"What?" Kyo choked on air.

"What?" Tamaki parroted, laughing as he waved a hand. "Nothing, nothing! Just wondering, you know."

Kyo eyed him. "Well stop wondering. We're sixteen, too young to be thinking about this."

"Right, right. . ."

"Good morning class! Hope you had a good break, but now it's time to open those books to chapter fifteen." Ms. Akiyama spoke as she entered the room, closing the door behind her. "Before we begin, a reminder that conferences will commence starting this week. Please see me after class for your appointment day if you've forgotten it."

Just as her mood was lifting, it dropped back down to the floor. She brought her thumb to her mouth, biting down on the tip. She had forgotten all about the career conferences. Maybe she could skip them? No–Kazuma (Kunimitsu) had it written on his calendar so he wouldn't schedule anything else on that day. Tamaki had said they accept any answer so she'll just have to come up with a generic one. An office worker?

"When's your day?" Tamaki whispered, leaning toward her while Ms. Akiyama was still settling in. Tamaki was a naturally energetic person, his social battery always at full power, but in class he was more subdued, mindful of the teacher and other students. It's the only reason why Kyo was able to be friends with him, rather than if they weren't classmates. It gave her a chance to actually talk to him instead of getting overstimulated from his bright energy.

"Tomorrow. When's yours?"

"Next tuesday."

"Damn. Think we can switch?"

"Unlikely." Tamaki smirked. "It's alright Kyo, nothing is going to be set in stone with this, it's just a formality, remember?"

Kyo exhaled, nodding. "Right." It will probably end up being very boring. She turned back to her textbook. "Ah, Kyoya, why is your pencil broken? Do you want to borrow one of mine?"

There was nothing to worry about. Everything was fine between her and her friends, and if it wasn't, Tamaki's behavior would have been a first sign of it. Walking between Tamaki and Kyoya to the club room, she glanced at the two boys as they bickered lightly about the next cosplay event. She smiled to herself, hurrying past them to reach the club door first and slipping through it.

"Looks like we're the first ones here." Tamaki set down his bag. "We have an outfit prepared for you Kyo, want to wear it?"

"What's the theme?"

"Take a look for yourself!" He hurried to the wardrobe with the cosplay outfits, swinging open the doors and pulling out a police uniform. "We're going to be a police unit today! I also made a robber outfit in case you'd want to spice things up." If it was anyone else she would have smacked them silly for that flirty phrase, but she knew he was completely innocent in his words.

Meeting him at the wardrobe, she grabbed the police uniform. "I'll stick to being a cop, thanks."

Without wanting to, she tensed as the doors opened behind her, hearing the others trickling in. She wasn't a bitch, however, and faced the door, grinning at her friends when she met their eyes. "Hey guys."

"Senpai!" Haruhi reciprocated her smile. "It's great to see you."

There was no indication of the others bringing up the summer villa, and she didn't make an effort to bring it up. Mitsukuni came up to her, sending her a soft grin that had her stomach flipping. "Hi."

"Hi."

While the silence between them wasn't awkward, she still moved away to head to the room she and Haruhi used to change. They would have plenty of time to talk in a bit.

She ended up eating her own words. There were a lot of shenanigans the club ended up getting roped into, but this might just top everything else.

A blonde child no older than four pointed at them with the boldness that only children had. "A male harem?"

A ripple of shock ran through all of them. What did she just say? All of them had hastily gotten into position when the club doors opened early, expecting it to be a client that was too eager. Instead, the tiny little child entered, looking around the room in awe.

Tamaki let out a chuckle, patting his ear and tilting his head to the side. "Gee, I think I still have the water from the ocean still in my ears."

The twins joined him in his awkward chuckling, crossing their arms. "Yeah, M'lord, there's no way a small child would know adult words like 'harem'."

"Debauchery?"

Kyo's jaw dropped.

"Megane? Lolita? Stoic? Nerd? Incest?" She listed off rapidly, pointing to each one of them. The girl pointed to her, "Tsundere?", before freezing at the sight of Tamaki. "Brother?!" She launched herself into his arms, clinging her tiny arms around his neck.

Kyo's jaw dropped further.

"No way! You never told us you had a sister in preschool, M'lord!"

"I don't! I'm supposed to be an only child. . .!" Tamaki was flustered, reluctantly holding onto the girl to keep her from falling.

"You do look alike though. . ."

"I can't believe I got nerd. . .Do I really give off that vibe?"

Kyo snorted. "Better nerd than Tsundere."

"What's your name, little one?" Tamaki asked her, setting her back down on her feet.

"Kirimi! I'm four!"***

"Kirimi, I think you're mistaken. . .I don't have a sister."

Her face crumpled, crocodile tears spouting in her eyes. "Y-you're not my big brother?"

As expected, Tamaki was easily moved by her dismay, tears of his own popping up. "I am now!" He declared, scooping her back up in his arms.

"I know you feel sorry for her, but don't say rash things!" Haruhi stressed.

"I'm not being rash! I can take care of her!"

"She's not a dog!" Kyo scolded.

Everyone huddled into a circle. "What should we do, Kyoya?"

"It's likely she actually does have a brother here at the school." He mused.

"But there's no one else here who has blonde hair like him." Hikaru shook his head. "Maybe the brother's in middle school?"

"I think the real question would be why she isn't able to recognize who's her brother." Kyo pointed out. Toddlers were at least able to recognize family by this age.

The club doors creaked open, drawing their attention. Nekozawa's hooded figure peeked around the door, giving a wide grin. "Kirimi~" He called out.

Kirimi cried out from fright, clinging onto Tamaki. Not that it made a difference, as he was just as scared as she was.

Kyo held her breath. The last time she had seen him was at his mansion when they visited the ocean. Anxiety and trepidation filled her, worried he would make another scene. Mistukuni slipped his hand into hers, squeezing it in a silent show of comfort.

"Nekozawa-senpai." Kyoya spoke.

"Thank you for finding my sister." He crooned, slipping further into the room. Although he had his dark wig and cloak on, his eyes still peeked through, immediately latching onto hers. He twitched, but otherwise showed no sign of breaking down into a worship. She held his gaze, jaw clenched; she wouldn't let him catch her off guard again.

Haruhi hit the bottom of her fist against the palm of her hand. "Come to think of it, he actually is blonde under that wig! I guess he does look a little like Tamaki too. . ."

"A monster!" Kirimi shouted, pushing her face further into Tamaki's shoulder.

"Wow, she really hates him." Devious smiles crept up on the twin's faces, slinking up behind Nekozawa and tugging roughly on his wig and cloak. "It's your outfit, take it off!"

Nekozawa screeched as if in pain. "You murderers!"

"Alright, alright!" They sang, backing away from the senior. Slinking over to the curtains, they each grabbed one side of the curtain to close them. "Let's make it dark then."

The room began to dim drastically as they tended to use natural lighting. Kirimi instantly fought in Tamaki's arms, crying out. "No, it's too scary!"

"Shouldn't she be over that fear by now?" Kaoru muttered, whining when Haruhi elbowed him.

Heels clicked against the tile floor, announcing the presence of a woman and man. The man was bald and a brick wall, possibly taller than Takashi. The woman was vastly shorter, dressed in a maid outfit and wore pigtails. Kyo frowned, vaguely recalling them both being at Nekozawa's ocean property last time too, but she couldn't remember their names.

"Alas, their tragic relationship stems from their opposite nature." The maid sighed, resting a hand against her cheek. "Master Umehito is deathly allergic to sunlight, and our little mistress is terrified of the dark. . .They are referred to as the 'Romeo and Juliet' of the Nekozawa Family."

Haruhi's face twisted into skepticism. "Romeo and Juliet weren't siblings. . .and the situation was way different." She pointed out.

The maid gave a sheepish chuckle. "Yes, I know. But it was just so catchy, I couldn't help myself to use it."

The butler turned towards Kirimi, greeting her with a small bow. "We looked everywhere for you Miss Kirimi. We were in charge of escorting her home." He directed the last bit to Tamaki as an explanation for their arrival.

"The Nekozawa Family are ancestors of the Russian Tokarev Dynasty." The maid continued. ("You mean Romanov, don't you?" Tamaki asked.) "Legend has it that every few hundred years someone charmed with darkness and affinity for the occult is born. But it's unclear if it's true or not."

"It looks pretty clear to me." The twins mumbled, casting a glance at the covered Nekozawa.

Kyo tilted her head. It seemed believable to her, if not for Nekozawa's condition, but the fact that the Sohma's were descendants of a legend as well.

"Due to his physical condition, Master Umehito is unable to approach his sister without his costume. Miss Kirimi has never met her brother, and only knows him by his princely portrait. She discovered he's attending Ouran Academy and wanders off from her Preschool in search of him. Unfortunately, I've been reading her tales of Princes, and I've actually run out of fairy tales to read to her, so I've had to depend on Shoujo Mangas to appease her, especially ones with Princely characters."

So she was to blame for Kirimi's vocabulary.

"I've tried many times to tell her Master Umehito was her brother, but she refuses to believe me." The maid finished off.

"I feel bad for Nekozawa. . ." Mitsukuni mumbled, lips turned down.

Nekozawa nodded. "Yes, well that's why every night I pray that Kirmi will one day embrace the darkness."

"You should be trying to adapt to the light." Hikaru tutted.

The butler held his hands out for Kirimi. "It's time to head home Miss Kirimi."

Kirimi latched onto the lapels of Tamaki's costume, shaking her head. "No no no! I want to stay with my big brother! I like big brother!"

Tamaki's eyes drew over to Nekozawa's who turned away from the scene. "Nekozawa. . ."

"No, it's okay Tamaki. . ." He sniffled, running out the doors. "Dote on her for me!"

"Nekozawa!" Tamaki called out.

Kyoya crossed his arms. "You know what, perhaps the reason why Nekozawa was so interested in you was because you were the ideal image of a brother." He mused.

Tamaki stared at Kyoya for a moment before snapping his fingers. "Mori-senpai, secure Nekozawa!"

Takashi sprinted out of the room, a distant cry of fear sounding out soon after.

"Hikaru, Kaoru! Darken the room as much as possible! Hani-senpai, turn on all the indirect lights! Kyoya, cancel all the client engagements." He barked out the orders with no pause, and it was amazing to see just how instantly they rushed to make it happen. Tamaki moved toward her, holding Kirimi out. "Kyo-kun!. . .Actually, Haruhi! Take care of Kirimi." He bypassed Kyo's waiting arms and deposited the child into Haruhi's reluctant ones.

"Hey! Why not me?" Kyo glared, put off by the snub.

"Kyo, do you even like children?" He inquired.

She sputtered. Not necessarily, but she would take care of one if needed!

"Brother. . .?" Kirimi pouted.

Tamaki patted Kirimi's head. "I'm sorry Kirimi, but I'm not your brother." He straightened up, putting his hands on his hips. "I'm the police! We all are, and we'll help you connect with your real brother!" He pointed at Nekozawa, who had returned (unwillingly) in the arms of Takashi. "Nekozawa, it's now our mission to acclimate you to the light, one step at a time! With this you'll finally become the princely figure Kirimi desires!"

And so, as the routine went with the host club, they dedicated all their time to help Nekozawa acclimate to sunlight.

It didn't go so well.

Kyo shook her head as Nekozawa could hardly stand to even be near anything stronger than a candle. Tamaki held no mercy for him either, going as far as to punish him with a beam from a flashlight.

She stayed with the boys on the first day, still sulking from being overlooked by Tamaki for Kirimi's babysitter. She was happy that she wasn't the one to read her Shoujo Manga like Haruhi, but still the vote of confidence would have been nice.

Kyo sat on the couch, playing with matches they were using for the candles. When the cushion next to her dipped, she sent a small smile over to Kyoya. "Hey."

"You're not joining in on the training."

She lit a match, watching the fire slowly consuming it. "Nope. They don't need an extra person to torture him." She blew on it before it reached her fingers, tossing it in the trash can by her feet.

"I can't help but notice you've kept your distance from Nekozawa." He crossed his legs, resting against the couch.

"You're seeing things I think." She lit another one.

"Could it be because of what happened at his vacation home?"

Her head snapped over to his. He was already staring at her, eyes glinting with satisfaction at hitting the mark. His hand slipped over hers to pluck the match out of her fingers, blowing out the fire.

"The twins told me." He answered her unasked question. "They didn't know what to do at Nekozawa's outburst and attack on you. They didn't even understand what happened, and neither did I. Nekozawa refused to elaborate, and Hani-senpai assured us that everything was well."

She dropped her gaze. Why did he have to bring this up now? "I. . .don't know what happened either. All I know is that he started spouting insane shit, and it freaked me out. It's been so long now, but I'd rather not be near him."

She could feel his eyes on her still. He didn't believe her.

"Kyoya." Mitsukuni's voice sounded weird as he came up beside the couch, lightly touching her shoulder before fully setting his hand down. She leaned into his touch. "Tamaki said he needs you."

Kyoya's jaw twitched, pushing up his glasses. "Of course." He stood up, fixing his tie. "Kyo." He nodded at her before crossing the room.

"That was weird." She noted, glancing up at Mitsukuni. His face was clear from his usual bright energy, and instead replaced with a cold look. He was still staring at Kyoya, eyes dark with irritation. "Mitsu. . .are you jealous?"

It felt ridiculous to make such a claim but–

"Yes."

Her eyebrows shot up. "What! Why?" Remembering where they were, Kyo pursed her lips and got up, taking Mitsukuni's hand into hers and pulling him to the nearest room. They ended up in the kitchen, empty except for the tea and cookies they had prepared for the guests.

Making sure the door was closed, she rested against it. "Mitsu. . .why would you be jealous of Kyoya, we're just friends."

"Does he know that?" He crossed his arms, settling down onto one of the stools. "I've seen the way he looks at you. He likes you."

Kyo's ears reddened.

"You knew?" He whispered, hurt.

"No!" She came closer, standing in front of him. "I. . .had a suspicion. He asked whether we were a couple or not, over the summer. But I only see him as a friend, really."

He still looked put out, not meeting her eyes and pouting. He honestly looked so adorable when he was mad.

"He's not my type anyways." She kept going, reaching out to cup his cheeks. "My type seems to be guys who are five foot one***, blonde, and have the prettiest brown eyes."

His angry act wavered, his hands coming to rest on her hips. She smiled, leaning in to kiss his cheek gently, following with his other cheek, forehead, and nose. When she didn't kiss his lips, he whined, trying to capture them himself. She giggled, meeting him halfway. The kisses were light and chaste, both of them eagerly returning for more.

When they finally mustered the will to stop, her lips felt numb and warm.

"I'm sorry. I should have mentioned it to you, but I honestly didn't pay attention to him." She admitted. "I also had other things on my mind."

Mitsukuni faltered. "No, I'm sorry. I believe that there's nothing there. I just don't like how he's ignoring what we have. I shouldn't have given you another thing to worry about." He lifted his hand off her hip, taking her hand and pressing a kiss to her knuckles. She tried not to think about how that made her feel.

"Kagura. . ." She cleared her throat as her voice cracked. She wasn't going to be shaken by this again. "She um. . .She told me she was only my friend because it made her feel better about being the boar." She took deep breaths, squeezing Mitsukuni's hand. "And it fucking hurt because she was my first friend, you know? And to realize that she only saw me as the stupid cat, so desperate for friends. . ."

"How could she do that?" Mitsukuni hissed, squeezing her hand back. "What made her think that was okay to do?"

"I don't know, and I don't care." She said, sighing. "She even said she loved me." A humorless chuckle left her. "I told her I would never love someone as shallow as her, and to forget she even knew me. . .I left her crying, but I don't feel bad about it."

"I wouldn't either, you have every right to feel hurt and angry at her."

It felt good for her feelings to be validated. "Yeah. . .So, that news kinda sent me into a spiral. I'm okay now, but it's going to take a while to get over it." She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

Mitsukuni spoke up after a minute. "Kyo. . .your family isn't very nice to you. . .at all. Isn't there some way for you to become emancipated, or just leave? You can stay with me if you don't feel safe."

A ball of humiliation formed in her chest. It seemed like a toll on her pride for Mitsukuni to offer her refuge away from her family, to bring him into her mess. It also seemed stupid to push away help because of her pride.

"I. . ."

The kitchen door creaked open. "There you are." Takashi stood at the door, inclining his head back into the main room. "Tamaki wants more people holding flashlights."

"Right." Kyo jumped off the stool, letting go of Mitsukuni's hand. "Thanks for letting us know, Takashi." She slipped around him, leaving them both behind.

---

"So, Kyo. You have good marks in all your classes and in your last exam you ranked fifteenth in your year. That's really good considering you transferred in the middle of the last term, and I expect that you can get higher grades next year." Her homeroom teacher spoke, smiling at both her and Kazuma. She handed Kazuma her grade report, jotting something down on her own notepad. "Now, as for the main reason for this conference, have you thought about what career choices you're interested in?"

Kyo ducked her head, staring at her hands that tightly clasped onto her dress. Even after calming her fears, she still felt the pit of dread threatening to choke her. She swallowed hard, lifting her gaze when Kazuma lightly tapped her hand.

"I. . .I'm not sure yet."

"That's alright, the majority of students also have trouble figuring out what path they'd like to go on." Liar. Everyone here at Ouran had their paths chosen for them. They would either go on to inherit or help their family business, or go on to an esteemed university. Even Haruhi had plans to go to law school. "You're excelling in Literature and English. Have you thought about becoming a journalist or going into the publishing industry?"

". . ."

"Actually, I had plans for Kyo to work at my dojo." Kazuma spoke up, bringing the attention to him.

"Oh! You own a dojo? In that case, will Kyo be trained to take over?"

A scoff left her lips before she knew it. She looked out the window to avoid their stares, glaring at the clock tower.

"Alright, well. . .how about your plans after you graduate? From what I know, the Sohma family has a lot of businesses and entities. Is that somewhere you can see yourself at?"

"No. Working for the Sohmas will be the last thing I'd ever do." She spat out the words with venom.

Ms. Akiyama was taken aback by her tone, but as she opened her mouth to respond, Kazuma beat her to it.

"To be honest, I don't believe in pressuring children to make choices about their future so soon." He hummed. Her head turned back around to stare at him. He continued without meeting her gaze. "No matter what path Kyo decides to take, all I ask is that she stays happy and healthy."

Kyo shut the office door behind her. Kazuma walked down the hall calmly, and she hurried to catch up with him. "Why did you say that?"

"Say what?"

"Don't act dumb, Shishou."

"Why did you react that way about the dojo?" He asked instead, stopping to face her. His face held no anger or disappointment, but she still felt cowed.

". . .We both know I'm not going to inherit it." She whispered.

"Do you want to?"

Did she want to?

A year after being taken in by Kazuma, she had gotten the courage to tag along with him to the dojo, and witnessed firsthand just how much he was respected and liked by those around him, so much so that in turn they treated her with politeness as well. To have something other than scorn or hatred was new to Kyo, and she wished to be the same as Kazuma. That dream, however, slowly died as she realized no matter what she did, it wouldn't change how the Sohmas viewed her.

"Not anymore." She answered truthfully. "I didn't lie in there. I don't want to have anything to do with the Sohma businesses, and even if you own the dojo, I know they own a portion of it too." Her words were harsh, but her tone conveyed otherwise. All Sohma owned businesses all linked back to the main estate. "Besides, Kunimitsu is the best person to take it over. He's already running it behind the scenes."

Kazuma chuckled at that. "Kyo–"

"I've been worrying about this conference for weeks, and now that it's over, I still find myself worrying about my future." She confessed. She blinked rapidly, pursing her lips. Her mouth ran faster than her mind, feeling so vulnerable now that she was alone with Kazuma. "What's the point, you know? I know what's waiting for me, and all these questions about what I want to do with my life just keep reminding me that I can't have any of it."

"Kyo–"

"Sometimes I wish you'd let me die on that mountain." She shouldn't have said that. Kazuma's face changed, and for the first time since she was five, she could clearly see the pain he held. Her chest twisted. "It. . .It would have been easier for everyone." She whispered, trying to rationalize her words.

Several seconds of tense silence passed. ". . .Do you feel that way right now?"

She couldn't answer him.

Kazuma closed his eyes briefly. Opening them, he stepped toward her, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Kyo. I wish to take away your pain and sorrow, even when I know I am not the person who can do so. Whether that person is yourself or someone else, I can't say, but I wish you could see yourself the way the people who care about you do. I think you'd find they want you to keep fighting. I know I do."

His hand felt warm and pleasantly heavy. She took a shaky breath, raising her eyes to the ceiling to hold back the tears. She blinked rapidly, pushing down the knot in her throat. This wasn't a conversation she ever wanted to have with Kazuma.

"I'm sorry Shishou. . ."

"I'm the one who should be apologizing. I am not the best parent in the world, there are things I could have done better, such as vocalizing my love for you, showing you more affection. As it stands, we both struggle with expressing ourselves."

"I never doubted you–!"

"It still would have been nice to hear it, wouldn't it?"

"No!" She denied. "Mother always said it to me. She never forgot to say it, even on her bad days. But it felt like she was saying it to remind herself. Like if she didn't, she would forget I was her daughter." She frowned, shaking her head. "So it means nothing to me if you say those words–I never doubted you because you showed me you did."

Kazuma wasn't one to be caught off guard. The look on his face was something she would relish in at a later time. For now, she stepped back from his hold, clasping her hands behind her back.

"I'm grateful that you took me in. You didn't need to, and I know you probably did because your grandfather was the previous Cat." Her lips pursed together briefly, thinking back to Kagura. No, it wasn't the same. "You were the first person to treat me like a person, so don't think you weren't a good parent. You are." Her cheeks reddened at her confession, clearing her throat awkwardly.

"Kyo. . ."

"Don't worry about me, okay? When I graduate. . .I'll accept my fate. You taught me to face my fears head on." She began to take more steps back, the embarrassment of such a moment beginning to catch up to her. "I'm your daughter after all." She made her escape then, leaving him behind without letting him put a word in. "Let's have dinner again soon!" She threw over her shoulder. She hoped he wouldn't worry about her anymore, for both of their sakes.

---

"Kyo, do you mind staying for a few minutes?"

The boy's conversation halted when she paused at the doorway, glancing back at Ms. Akiyama. The final bell had just rung and Kyo had been eager to leave the classroom.

"Sensei. . ?"

"It won't take long, I promise." She sent a reassuring smile, beckoning her over.

"We'll wait for you." Kyoya promised, nudging Tamaki forward again. She gave a nod, stepping back and making her way to the desk. She hoped it didn't take too long, as they needed to head to the club room quickly.

"No need to hire bodyguards when you have those boys, right?" Ms. Akiyama chuckled fondly, lacing her fingers together.

"Is there an issue?" The words were blunt, borderline rude as she cut to the chase. "If this is about the conference, I'm sorry I couldn't give you a proper answer–"

"Oh! No Kyo, please don't worry. As a teacher I needed to put a little bit of pressure on you, but I completely understand if you don't know yet. The reason I wanted to talk with you, is I've come to notice that you aren't a part of any clubs here. You spend a lot of time with the Host Club, but you're not an official member, and I think it would be good for you to branch out and connect with your peers, do something you enjoy. It's okay to join one or two clubs, I know the third years in the Host Club are also in sport clubs as well." She sighed, pursing her lips. "I can't force you to join a club, but I hope you can give it a shot."

Kyo stared at her wordlessly. Teachers were always a shaky territory for her. Years of being reprimanded by them for getting into fights, even though she was defending herself from bullies, it was easier to not depend on them. At Kaibara, Ms. Shiraki was tough on her, but only when she pushed back. Ms. Akiyama. . .seemed sincere in her words. She gave a moment to seriously consider the idea.

"I don't know if I would fit into any of these clubs. . ." She pursed her lips. "Is there a list?"

"Yes! I printed out a copy just for this." She smiled, picking up the paper and handing it over.

Holding it in her hands, Kyo skimmed the clubs quickly. "I'll. . .I'll think about it." She hurried out of the room, spotting her boys leaning against the wall. "Sorry for the hold up."

"What did she want?" Tamaki asked, eyeing the paper in her hands.

She held it out to him, shrugging. "She suggested I join a club."

"What? But you're already a part of one!" He frowned, taking the paper and reading the list with a look of annoyance.

"Yeah, but I'm not a real member." Kyo rolled her eyes. "Mooching off the snacks and wearing the cosplay doesn't mean anything. I don't even host."

"She's right, I've had to sell limited edition magazines to make up for the expenses she's costing us." Kyoya smirked.

Kyo gave him the middle finger, to which Tamaki pushed her hand down without bothering to glance up from his reading. "We can make you a proper member! I bet with you as a host we could open up a new avenue of customers, ladies and men!"

"Actually. . ." She hesitated, playing with her fingers before stopping herself. "I want to explore my options. You guys are fun and all, but maybe Ms. Akiyama is right; I need to try different things."

"Are you breaking up with me?" Tamaki gasped, clutching his chest.

"Yes." She deadpanned. Sighing, she shook her head. "Look, I'm still going to show up to the club, and cosplay when I can, but I'll be attending another club on other days, like Mitsukuni and Takashi. I just want to say I tried something new."

Both of them regarded her. Tamaki spoke, giving her the list back. "Alright. As your honorary President, I accept your reasoning. But I'll fight any club if they try to hog you!" He huffed, crossing his arms.

She giggled, nodding. "I'll be sure to let them know before I join. I'll see you guys tomorrow, then?" She backed away, waving at them. "Nekozawa is probably waiting for you guys already." She ran off, making her way to the rooftop.

Setting her bag down, she sat on the floor, giving the list a thorough look. She made a mental note of all the ones that seemed interesting. Soccer, Track, Karate, Orchestra. . .Animal breeding? Maybe not that one.

Track and Soccer sounded the most interesting, although she wasn't sure about the intensity of Soccer, since it was a low-contact sport. Letting out a sound, she laid back to look at the clouds. She shouldn't let herself get too worked up about this. It was just a club, her teacher wasn't going to be mad if she didn't join any club. Pulling out her phone, she squinted at the screen, buttons beeping as her thumb rapidly pushed them.

do you think track or soccer
is better for me?

track

why?

idk

haru

lol

you'd get angry
if you got a foul
you also run
really fast

lol

Maybe Haru had a point. She could already imagine the issues that would happen if the opposing team played dirty tricks. She held up the paper one more time, her eye catching a club she missed. Literature. . .Didn't Ms. Akiyama suggest a career in that?

She peeked into the window of the classroom, watching the group of students sitting in a circle and reading out from papers in their hand. No, only one person was actually reading from it, while the others were nodding or writing on their papers.

"So this is what they do. . .?" She murmured. They looked to be sharing their writing with the group, something she wasn't sure she was up to do. It seemed embarrassing to share your creations.

The hair on her nape rose. She twisted around, holding up her hands in front of her. "Hey!"

"Hey, watch it!" The boy stumbled back in surprise, catching his step before glaring at her.

"Me watch it? You're the one standing behind me like a stalker." She scoffed, crossing her arms.

"Stalker?!" He echoed, insulted. He puffed out his chest, pointing at her with a deeper glare. "I just walked by you, you're the one overreacting!"

She squinted at him, suspicious. She eyed him from head to toe, clicking her tongue. Red hair tied up, uniform undone, and a horrible glare. She dropped her arms to put her hands on her hips, scowling. "Whatever, that's what all perverts say."

His face turned red with anger. "I'm not a pervert, you yankee bitch!"

"Yankee bitch? Ever look in a mirror, you yakuza poser?!"

"Hey!" The literature club's door shot open, a third year glaring at them. "Take it outside if you want to fight, you're interrupting our meeting!" His mouth twisted shut as he turned his glare to the red head, mumbling something under his breath before shutting the door again.

Embarrassment flowed through her body, angry to be caught by an upperclassman. Tossing a withering glance at the boy, she left him behind. She hoped the track team was still on the field to watch them.

"Wait!" He called out after her, his footsteps loud as he hurried after her. "I know you can hear me!"

"Yeah, it's called ignoring you!"

"Please, wait!"

Letting out a groan, Kyo twirled around, hands curled into fists. "What!"

His face crumpled. "Look. . .I really was just passing by; I'm not a pervert, got it?" His voice lowered, and he shoved his hands in his pockets.

"What year are you in?"

His shoulders slumped, as if in resignation. "1-D. Ritsu Kasanoda." He mumbled.

A first year – and in the D class no less.***** She might have spoken too soon about her Yakuza comment. However, it made sense why he wouldn't want a rumor of being a pervert getting out. "Alright, Ritsu Kasanoda. I wasn't going to say anything anyways, you don't have to worry about me. Just make some noise when you walk, you sound like a fucking mouse."

"Thanks. . .you're a second year, right? How do you do it?"

"Hm? Do what?"

"Be here with all these rich kids?" He threw his arm in the air, indicating the whole school. "They act like they're better than us, just because their parents have connections and 'proper' businesses." He rolled his eyes.

Her brows almost connected together from how much she was frowning. "I mean. . .some of them aren't that bad. They know how to treat people well."

"Don't tell me they got to you too." Kasanoda groaned. "Look, people like us should stick together, especially in a place like this!"

Kyo tilted her head. "Do you think I'm a part of a syndicate?"

". . .Are you not?"

"No. . ."

". . .But the way you act. . .?"

"Just bad manners."

"Oh."

"Yeah. Wait, do you know who the Red Butterfly–"

"You're related to the Red Butterfly?" He gasped.

"You actually know who she was?" She blinked. She didn't think the Yakuza would know her, Kyoko was only part of a small gang decades ago.

"I had a nanny who was in the same gang as her." He explained. "I can see the resemblance, though."

"Oh wait, I'm not–"

"We should have lunch together! What do you say?" She could hear from his tone he was nervous and excited, but his facial features had barely changed to reflect it. He still looked like he was giving her a menacing glare.

She looked at her watch. The clubs would be over by now. "I prefer to eat lunch alone." She declined, shrugging. "If I'm ever in the dining hall though, you can join me." She turned away, making a note to check out the clubs tomorrow.

"H-hey you didn't tell me your name!"

"It's Kyo!" She called over her shoulder.

---

Kyo pressed herself against the bedroom wall, pressing her hands against her ears.

"I told you to keep a better eye on it!"

She wouldn't cry. Her father hated it when she cried.

"She's your daughter, not 'it'! What was I supposed to do? I need to run errands and I can't take her with me!"

"That's not my problem! The last thing we need is for Akito to find out we're letting it roam free!"

Bringing her knees up to her chest, she dropped her head down onto them as she rocked back and forth. "Five little monkeys jumping on the bed. . ." She began to sing to herself softly.

"I told you keeping that thing was only going to be a curse for us!"

". . .mama called the doctor. . ."

"You weren't saying that when I first got pregnant!"

"Three little monkeys. . ."

"That was before I had a fucking cat in my arms!"

". . .no more jumping on the bed. . ."

"Leave then! I know the only reason you stay is for the allowance!"

Skin on skin contact echoed out, instantly bringing silence to the other room.

Kyo flinched. "One little monkey jumping on the bed. . ."

The door to her room slammed open, her father looming in the doorway. "And you, I thought I told you to keep your mouth shut."

"I'm sorry!" She squeaked out, bracing herself as he stepped closer.

Kyo sat up in bed, staring at her hands.

Peeling the covers off, she sighed as she made her way to her desk, sitting down and reaching for her school bag. Might as well get some homework done while she was up.

---

Kyo let out a loud yawn, her jaw almost slipping in half from how wide she opened it. She was heading home for the day, too tired to help the hosts with their Nekozawa project. She only managed to stay for a bit to look at the track team. They seemed fine, kindly giving her more information on when they met and how often they went to races. She would have to show them how fast she ran first if she wanted to join and be considered for any of their competitions. With it being the second term, there was a less likely chance of her being a top pick. She had thanked them for their time and left, deciding to check out a few more clubs before fully committing.

Maybe she was being too eager about this. It would be easier to just stop looking and keep going to the host club room. It would definitely be less time consuming.

Her footsteps slowed as further down the path, Kirimi stood facing her. The little girl wasn't looking at her however, but instead at a kitten standing a few feet away. Kirimi had tears in her eyes, shaking in fright from the animal.

"Kirimi?"

Shoes slapped against the brick path, only giving Kyo a second to look over her shoulder as Nekozawa sprinted past her. "Kirimi!" He shouted. Kyo's eyes widened as her hair and dress whipped to the side from the wind displacement. He reached out for his sister, quickly lifting her into his arms.

Nekozawa had no wig or robe on, freely standing in the sun.

The kitten that had frightened Kirimi bounded over to Kyo, meowing at her feet. But her eyes were glued onto the scene with siblings, seeing the love he had for her. Kimiri was crying into his shoulder, holding on tightly to his neck. "Big brother!"

"Don't be scared Kirmi. Don't be scared." He crooned, pulling Belzenhelf from his pocket. He gave her the puppet to hold, smiling serenely. He began to sway on his feet. "Belzenhelf will curse all bad cats. . ." He trailed off as collapsed to the ground, falling onto his back to protect Kirimi, even as he fell unconscious.

"Nekozawa!" Kyo gasped, ignored the kitten, hurrying over to them. He was so sensitive to light he could hardly stand a flashlight, how was he able to run out here in the first place? She had no sweater or umbrella she could use to shield him from the sun, but she kneeled down and raised her book bag over him. "Nekozawa, please wake up!" She fanned him with her free hand while trying to gently pull Kirimi away at the same time. It was no use since she began to cry harder, clinging onto him.

"Nekozawa!" Her head whipped up, seeing Tamaki running out of the West hall toward them. The others weren't far behind, and Kyo breathed out, relieved.

Fingers encircled her wrist, jolting her. Nekozawa was weakly holding onto her, stopping her hand from fanning him.

"Tamaki's on his way." She assured him. His eyes squinted up at her, and his lips moved. "What?" His lips moved again, this time tugging on her to come closer. She felt wary, but curiosity got the better of her, and she lowered her bag to the side, tilting her head to the side to lean in.

"Hime, stop avoiding me. I'm meant to help you."

Her red eyes met his blue ones, trying to understand. He was almost dying under the sun and yet he still was using this time to tell her this. "What do you mean?"

Tamaki kneeled down, opening the umbrella he held over Nekozawa. "Nekozawa, are you alright?"

"Destiny, destiny~" He sang out, closing his eyes once more.

"Is he delirious?" Kaoru mumbled behind her.

Kyo drew back, face pinched. "Of course he's delirious, he got a lifetime of sun in a minute. Is someone calling an ambulance or what?" She barked out.

"It's on the way." Kyoya paid no mind to her attitude, slipping his phone back into his pocket. "Let's move him out of the sun before he gets worse."

She got up to let the boys handle him, stepping to the side where Haruhi was trying to calm down Kirimi.

"It's okay Kirimi, your brother is going to be alright." She awkwardly patted her back, but Kirimi wasn't having it, squirming around in her arms.

Kyo sighed, moving forward and taking the kid from her. Jutting her hip out, she rested Kirimi on it, holding onto her bottom as she rubbed small circles on her back. "Your brother just had a small nap. He'll be up and going in no time."

Her lip quivered, but she stayed still, laying her cheek on her shoulder as she watched Nekozawa be moved. Kyo silently moved alongside them, keeping the siblings in each other's eyesight. Looks like she wasn't going home anytime soon.

Nekozawa would be fine in the end. He actually did receive a lifetime of sun in that amount of time he was outside, although the doctor couldn't say if any more would be bad or not. Safe to say, Nekozawa wasn't about to put that to the test anytime soon.

---

As soon as the doctor notified them that he was in the clear, Kyo left. She had worried for him, but everything was getting more and more confusing with no answers to clear anything up. She didn't know how long she could handle it, and she couldn't ask Nekozawa any more questions with everyone around.

It was grinding on her nerves on the secrets everyone held to their chest. She was a hypocrite in even thinking about it, but she couldn't help it.

Passing through the school gates, Kyo glanced to the side, doing a double take.

"Rin?"

Rin was leaning against the pillars connected to the gates, one arm wrapped around her waist, her other arm resting on top of it, a cigarette hanging from her index and middle finger. It was burning slowly, but she made no effort to keep smoking it.

Her eyes dragged up from where they stared at the ground, latching onto hers. "Kyo."

Although the majority of the students had gone home, the few that were leaving made sure to leave a wide berth around Rin, casting disgusted glares at her. Kyo couldn't tell if it was the smoke or Rin's appearance that they had an issue with. Probably both.

"Let's have a chat." Rin dropped the cigarette, putting it out with her boot. She didn't wait for an answer, moving in the opposite direction from the school. She always hated that about Rin, how she never doubted if someone was following what she wanted.

Clicking her tongue, Kyo set after her, scowling at her back. Rin was tall even without her heeled boots, making her stride fast. Kyo had long legs too, but she found herself having to quicken her pace to match Rin's. "You're lucky no one called the cops on you for looking like a hooker."

"Please, it was probably the first time those rich boys saw tits. They weren't going to chase me away." She scoffed.

"Why the fuck are we here?" They reached a small playground, empty sans the small kids further away. Rin sat on a swing, pulling out another cigarette from her purse and lighting it with ease. Smoke blew from her lips, right into Kyo's face. "Blow that shit away from me."

"Fucking baby." Rin rolled her eyes. "Kagura told me what happened."

Kyo tensed up. "And what? Are you going to defend her actions?"

Rin stared at her. "No. I'll admit I was curious why she kept crying herself to sleep, but when she finally told me, I could understand you a bit." At her scoff, Rin leveled her with a look. "Yeah, yeah, you're the fucking cat, whatever. You're not the only victim in this story, get over yourself."

Kyo bristled. "Then what did you come all the way to my school for? We don't even like each other." As will all the other zodiacs, she had a complicated relationship with all of them. She had some tolerance for (Momiji and Hatsuharu), hatred (Yuki), or neutrality (Kisa and Ritsu). Rin fell on the spectrum somewhere between hatred and neutrality. She knew how to push her buttons, and tended to be a bitch for no reason. Haru used to say they clashed because they were too alike.

"I want to propose an alliance."

"This isn't the 1800s anymore."

"Shut up!" Rin hissed. "I'm saying. . ." She trailed off, clenching her jaw as she struggled to speak. Kyo let her gather her thoughts, more curious than anything at seeing Rin act this way. "I'm going to break the curse."

Kyo's eyes widened. "You're fucking insane."

Rin took a drag of her cigarette, glaring at her. "You're going to help me do it."

"You're fucking insane!" She repeated. "There's no way to break it."

"How do you know?"

Kyo stuttered. "T-there isn't. It's been centuries with no indication that there is a way."

Rin stood up, stepping closer. "How. Do. You. Know? You think the Main House or any of the Heads would tell us if there was? Centuries of this imprisonment and no one has gotten close to it?" She waved her arms around, a crazed glint shining in her eyes. "You should be the one to be thinking this way, you have the most to lose!"

"And if Akito finds out, I'm going to the Cat's Room immediately!" She snapped. "I've already accepted my fate and I'm trying to savor the time I have left." An overwhelming sense of fear blossomed in her, shaking her head at Rin.

"So you're just going to be a coward and give up without even attempting to get out of this?"

Kyo clutched her bag tightly, her gaze dropping in shame. "I tried and all I got was my imprisonment pushed up instead of delayed. I just. . .I want to enjoy the last bit of freedom."

"I was wrong about you Kyo." Rin sneered. "You used to be so tough and took no one's shit, and now look at you. Cowering at even the thought of fighting back." Kyo flinched at her words, but couldn't speak up. "Don't know why I fucking bothered." She walked past Kyo, slamming her shoulder into hers. Kyo stumbled, catching her footing.

"I'm sorry." Kyo whispered.

"No, I'm sorry." Rin laughed coldly. "I'm sorry that you gave up so quickly. Akito must have done a real good job beating you for you to act this way." She looked over her shoulder. "You better tell that girl and blonde guy to stop their efforts to save you, it's all for nothing."

Kyo turned around, frowning. "What are you talking about?"

Rin sent her a nasty smirk. "Don't you know? The Honda girl is trying to break the curse too." She left then, leaving Kyo stunned for words.

Tohru was trying to break the curse?

Tohru was trying to break the curse.

Kyo walked into the house, kicking her shoes off and walking up the stairs. Pausing in front of Tohru's door, she raised a fist to knock, but ultimately held back and continued to her room.

Inside, she slipped out of her dress, putting on a large tshirt. She opened her window, straddling the window sill and resting against the wall. The moon was already rising in the distance, illuminating her figure as she disassociated.

She didn't have to put much thought into who the blonde guy Rin was referring to. Mitsukuni and Tohru were trying to break the curse and they weren't telling her. But how did Rin find out?

She sucked her lip between her teeth. Rin was right to call her a coward. She had given up hope in being free, and accepted it like a dying dog. A year ago she had been fighting tooth and nail against the curse, and now, she was being timid and afraid of the consequences, crying so easily. Momiji and Tohru had said she was changing for the better, but she couldn't recognize herself in the mirror anymore.

Her hands clutched onto her hair, digging her nails into her scalp. Who was she now?

---

Kyo smiled as Mitsukuni tugged her closer, allowing her to lay against his chest. His warmth encased her, her body relaxing.

"I love you." She whispered, listening to his heart beating against her ear.

When he said nothing, she frowned, pulling back to look at him. "Mitsu?"

He wasn't smiling, staring at her with pity.

"Mitsu. . .I said I love you." She tried again, placing a hand on his. He immediately drew away, shocking her.

"I told you, Kyo. I have a wife now." He murmured.

"What?" She gasped. "Since when? You're only eighteen!"

He titled his head at her. "Kyo. . .I'm forty. Are you having another episode?"

She blinked and suddenly she was on the cold ground, red bars in front of her. She grasped them, looking around in disbelief. Mitsukuni was standing on the other side of the bars, crow's feet around his eyes and gray hairs peeking through the blonde ones. His hair was shorter, suiting his older face more.

"I – I don't understand."

Mitsukuni sighed, his face uncomfortable. "I shouldn't have come here. I only wanted to see how you were doing after all this time."

"What are you talking about, I just saw you yesterday!" She shouted.

"I'm leaving now, Kyo. I need to get back to my wife and kids." He stepped away, turning the opposite direction where a woman and two kids stood in the distance. "I wish. . ." He trailed off, never finishing his sentence as he walked away.

"Mitsukuni? Mitsukuni!" Kyo screamed, but he never looked back as he left her in the Cat's Room. She sobbed loudly, shaking the bars as she watched her beloved walk away. "Mitsukuni don't leave me!"

Kyo's eyes opened.

---

Rin was hard to find. She knew how to hide when she didn't want to be found. It took Kyo two days to find her, trying to go to the spots she remembered Haru mentioned she would hang around. She couldn't ask him again for clarification, and she also wouldn't ask Kagura either.

Leaves crunched under her shoe as she drew closed, alerting Rin to her presence. Rin's lip curled up. "Never thought you'd show your face again."

"You were right, okay?" Kyo's ears burned. "I'm a coward, and I'm afraid–"

"Good for you, now get out of here." Rin rolled her eyes, waving her off.

"Would you listen to me!?" Kyo snarled. When Rin raised her eyebrow, she continued. "I have until graduation before I'm locked away. I thought I could enjoy my life until then and have no regrets, but I can't. I'll regret letting Mitsukuni go and letting him forget about me." She fought against the ball in her throat. She was tired of crying. "I said I wanted to be selfish, so I'm going to be selfish. I'm going to help you break the curse."

Rin's lips curled up into a smile.

---

A/N :

Hi. Thanks for tuning in again for a new chapter. The story is actually going down a different path than I expected and planned, but it's not a bad thing. I know Kyo is a little OOC, which is what I wanted, along with other characters. As a female, I think there are a lot of aspects that affected her life differently than when she is the male version. Things are diverging from canon, specifically on the Furuba canon timeline, which is what I wanted too. I hated writing the canon bits, more for Ouran, because it didn't feel organic and I would get such writer's block as I struggled through them, not sure if you can tell. Anyways, I will be working on the next chapter immediately, and I hope you guys will like how the story pans out. Thank you for your support!

* I googled to see if there was a name for this pose, and I was only able to find the name dogeza bow. I'm not sure if that's truly accurate, especially since it said it was a super formal bow, but yeah.

** The banquet story is taken straight from the wiki.

*** Kirimi is 3 in the manga, but I aged her up, just because I find it hard to believe a three year old to have proper awareness for that type of speech and vocabulary. Then again, I don't know any three year olds to determine their language skills.

****Mitsukuni's canon height is 4'10. Kyo in this story is 5'3, don't quote me if I mentioned a different height before.

*****A reference back to the earlier chapters. In the manga, the students are placed in the classes via grades and reputation, with the D class mainly the ones with Yakuza-affiliated students.