[Fanfiction] [Crossover] Why Did I Fall in Love with you?
Title: Why did I fall in love with you?
Author: Dark Hooded Eriol the Magician
Series: Ouran High School Host Club / Cardcaptor Sakura
Rating: T
Genre: Romance/ Angst
Status: In-progress
Disclaimer: The song is by DBSK and the characters are made by CLAMP and Hatori Bisco. Support them, please!
Summary: Some of us seek second chances. Will we be brave or will we be cowards again? There is only a choice to do what is right and what is true. Why did I fall in love with you? -KyouyaxTomoyo-
Chapter III
+0+0+
From the first day that I met you
I felt like I knew you
And the two of us melded together so naturally
+0+0+
Kyouya took several deep breaths to calm down. He reminded himself that it wasn't his father's idea to push him into an arranged marriage that was handled by the eccentric French heiress. It was the Amamiya-Daidouji family that had asked for their consent to see if he would oblige their little heiress.
He knew Renge from their rosy high school days so he knew what he was talking about. Although he had lost touch with most of his schoolmates from the very prestigious Ouran High School, he tended to bump into them from time to time. (They all inhabited the same world of the rich and famous elite citizens. It was a very small world. Everyone knew everything.) He thought that he shouldn't be surprised to see her again so soon, if you can call six years that.
The brown-haired heiress to a famous fashion house had always been a cheerful and optimistic girl who believed in true love. Maybe he shouldn't also be surprised to know that she had set up a successful matchmaking business on the side. (His senses became agitated. Why didn't he know that? He should have known that something like this was about to happen.) The marriage interview was going to be a disaster if Renge pushed him too much into a match that he didn't want just because the girl's parents wanted him. It was good news that he knew how to handle her: as firmly as he possibly could without her noticing.
Squaring his shoulders, he walked into certain doom.
"Hoshakuji-san," Kyouya Ohtori said formally as he approached the table. She got up and curtseyed with a large smile. He gestured for her to sit down with him as he occupied the seat across. "This is certainly a surprise."
"I was expecting you to know that my matchmaking business was handling your marriage interview." Renge Hoshakuji said smilingly. She hastily got her daily planner from her fashionable tote bag and checked it when she saw his face darken. Kyouya's face was blank and unreadable as ever so she wasn't sure how to handle him. "I'm always happy to help out my old schoolmates and my most favorite host, of course."
Kyouya's lips twitched. "I heard that you're successful because of your matchmaking skills, thanks to your old dating simulations. But I didn't understand just how popular your site is until now. I'm impressed."
"You should be," Renge said smugly. "And you should be even more surprised to know that this isn't my day job. It's just my hobby."
She laughed heartily at the shock on his face. It was nice to know that some people stayed the same. As a young teenager at school, she had fallen in love with the handsome young man in front of her. After the first tumultuous feelings of infatuation faded, fondness for him remained. "I was surprised because the Daidouji family matriarch picked you out from all of the candidates that I've emailed for her."
"I'm a catch, you know," Kyouya deadpanned. "All of the women want me."
"Not this woman!" Renge corrected him, smiling. "You might be my first love but you're just one of many now."
He nodded, acknowledging the engagement ring that glittered in the sunlight. Thanks to the dinner with his friends he was aware about the latest news about her. Thinking like the businessman that he was he analyzed the situation and how it would be used to his advantage. Starting with her, of course, he thought quickly.
Umehito Nekozawa was a very wealthy man who descended from aristocratic nobles. They also had some Russian royalty blood on their veins so they were very formidable in the international business world. Judging from the large princess-cut diamond that shone radiantly on white gold, the bridegroom hadn't spared any expense of using his large family holdings and jewelry business into getting the vest best for his love. Renge was very lucky to be loved by someone so wealthy and powerful. The dark-haired man offered a small smile. "Congratulations. Who is the lucky man?"
"You won't believe it but its Umehito-san," Renge burst into delighted laughter. She knew that their union was unusual but not totally unbelievable so she totally enjoyed people's faces when she shared her fabulous news. "The dark prince of the Black Magic Club is my only love now."
Kyouya cleared his throat. "Manager-san," he said softly. He gave her a very warm and charming smile that she returned at once. "You mentioned that this was just a hobby of yours. Why is that?"
She laughed. "I was bored with two of my old sets of friends so I introduced them to each other. Little did I know that they were attracted and didn't know how to approach so imagine my surprise when they thanked me for my help! My reputation spread out and here it was."
"You're gifted, that's why." He nodded, understanding. The black-haired man needed to know more about the Daidouji heiress because he'd never met her. "What does she look like? I trusted your intelligence records before when we worked on the Host Club and I'm quite disappointed to know that a picture isn't included this time. Why is that?"
Renge smiled mysteriously as she tilted her head sideways towards the entrance of the restaurant.
The hotel's only restaurant was well-furnished and full of antiques. In the muted light of the chandeliers and the soft jazz sounds, it was the perfect setting for a marriage interview. He followed her gaze towards the double doors and nearly gasped as the waiter led in a dark-haired girl who had her back to them. His eyes went wide as she turned around.
She was a beauty. There was no denying it. Her pale skin gleamed like pearls under the soft light from the candles; her long dark hair fell in gleaming waves down to her waist. His eyes traveled upwards to her face as she slowly walked towards them. They widened with recognition. It was her.
Kyouya felt his heartbeats accelerate. His palms became sweaty and he wiped them on his expensive slacks without a second thought. He silently berated himself for acting like a nervous teenager. It was simply because he wasn't one. The world knew him as a confident, attractive and serious young man. He walked as if he owned the world. Nothing had ever stopped him. No complicated business deals, no death threats and no overemotional Tamaki had ever stood in his way until today.
He didn't realize that Renge had gotten up and greeted the young woman cheerfully. They seemed to be familiar with each other because they had spent at least two minutes exchanging anecdotes and cooing over the glittering diamond ring. He stood in the sidelines, watching her without even noticing it.
She had such luminescent blue-violet eyes. That was the first thing that he noticed. They were like fine, large gemstones hiding behind a thick sooty veil. Soon his gaze wandered all over her beautiful face. Her face was a perfect oval with high cheekbones, a patrician nose and a sensual Cupid's bow mouth that ached to be kissed. Her slender but curvaceous frame was encased in an innocent white lace dress that further accentuated her pale skin. His hands suddenly itched to run themselves all over or at least capture her in a tight embrace…
Kyouya forced himself to look away, blushing lightly. It was truly the first time that he was honestly attracted to a beautiful woman and it unnerved him.
Renge turned to him. She was smiling. "Let me have the pleasure of introducing you to my dear friend, Kyouya Ohtori. He's a top CEO for the Ohtori group. Ohtori-san, please meet my good friend Tomoyo Daidouji, the Crystal Voice of Tokyo."
Tomoyo laughed in spite of her embarrassment and shock. She stared at him for a minute before she nodded with recognition. His heart leaped when she stared back. "I thought I told you never to call me that," she said in a mock-angry voice before turning to him. Her smile was radiant. "It's a pleasure to meet you at last."
He smiled warmly and took her hand. "No, it's my pleasure."
"You two know each other already?" the brown-haired matchmaker's brows knitted together. Her eyes sparkled with delight though when she watched Kyouya lean down and brush Tomoyo's fingers against his lips. "That's perfect!"
When he looked up, he saw that her cheeks were bright red and her eyes reflected an emotion that he'd seen in his own eyes many times. Fear, longing, uncertainty and despair for a thing that had been lost. He felt something prick his heart. Why was such a beautiful girl so sad?
"Have you ordered anything yet?" Tomoyo said in an oddly high-pitched voice. She looked at her friend pleadingly. "How does this thing work anyway? I honestly don't have any idea on how marriage interviews are supposed to go…"
"It usually involves your parents discussing your futures," Renge said merrily to their horror "and you won't have any say about it. But since I'm running a rather unusual company, the parents are not involved until you make a decision about yourselves. You're both adults. My job is just to make sure that everything goes smoothly for you two."
Tomoyo nodded, understanding. Renge's matchmaking business was very successful. She had heard something from her casual acquaintances about the unusual but effective way of matchmaking that she employed. Now she understood why. The brown-haired young woman seemed capable and professional in a field that she obviously enjoyed.
The dark-haired man raised an eyebrow but said nothing as Renge prattled on about the most recent success stories of her website. He had to confirm if the rate of success was high before he agreed to anything. Since it was a marriage interview he had to be careful since his father might suddenly decide to go through with the wedding. Yet after a glance at his prospective candidate he decided that it might not be a bad thing after all.
"Thank you for explaining," Tomoyo said, smiling sweetly. "I was quite lost for a moment there."
A cheerful ringing tone interrupted their conversation. Renge returned an apologetic smile and excused herself for her very important phone call.
Kyouya turned to her. "So, Daidouji-san, we meet at last."
She jumped. His voice was deep and pleasant. Her gaze swiveled to the man sitting across her with curiosity. Upon reading the file, she had imagined that the man her mother had chosen would be stuffy, stiff and boring. Thank God that she was wrong. The dark-haired man carried a mysterious and magnetic aura that immediately drew her in. He was very handsome in his casual yet expensive clothes which spoke of his good taste and style. Her eyes wandered upwards to his handsome face and towards his eyes.
A gasp escaped her. He had such deep and impenetrable blue-gray eyes behind his glasses. They bore down into hers, digging deep and searching into her soul. She could swear that he was hypnotizing her because she could barely look away. "Yes," she agreed.
"Three times a charm," he said with a small wink. She giggled in spite of herself. That was true. They had first seen each other in the benefit party then at the restaurant and now they were sitting together for their first marriage interview. "I don't usually believe in coincidences but I'll have to let the fates win this one."
Tomoyo Daidouji, the girl who was aware of the magic that existed in the universe, laughed nervously. She had to give her cousin props for her prediction. There was something special about this man. "True," she nodded "and the next thing we'll know is that our chaperone over there will have to leave and we'll be alone. Oh my. That sounds such like a cliché."
Kyouya smiled at her statement. He noticed that Renge was coming over to them, looking apologetic yet slightly happy.
"I'm so sorry but could you please excuse me? My father is requesting for my presence at home because he wants to plan my engagement party." Renge shared a secret smile with Tomoyo. "And Umehito-san is anxious to spend some time with me before he flies back to Russia."
"It's no problem," Tomoyo said gently. "We can handle it from here."
"Thank you so much," Renge said, waving as she walked away. "Have a great time."
They watched her leave before they signaled a passing waiter for an order. He asked for coffee; she asked for tea. They settled into their seats, not feeling awkward at all. Somehow they felt at ease with each other.
"So," the dark-haired young woman said as she leaned forward, "let's start. My mother is going to grill me all about you and I need you to know a few things."
"Go on." Kyouya was interested to know what she wanted to say. He'd never met another woman who was as refreshingly honest as Haruhi. Tomoyo's smile was bittersweet. To him, it was very seductive.
"Don't fall in love with me."
-0-0-0-
After that fateful day, they began to spend more time together. It was inevitable because they suited each other very well. They scheduled weekly dates, called each other often and became acquainted with each other. When the news broke that the last unmarried Ohtori was courting the Little Queen, the reactions were explosive.
Her mother was delighted. ("I knew my plan would work!" Sonomi crowed.) His father was pleased. ("I can't wait to work with them." Yoshio Ohtori said.) The rest of the world speculated and wondered about what could possibly attract an artistic heart like hers to a cold-hearted man like him.
Yet the oddly matched pair paid no attention. They continued their courtship for months. Everyone eagerly awaited the wedding but nothing happened. They were all surprised but there was no comment. Perhaps they were taking their time. Maybe they were busy. The possibilities were endless.
Tomoyo merely smiled.
Kyouya worked harder to keep that smile. He took her out to first-class restaurants and amusement parks on weekends that he was free. Once he even swept her away to an afternoon in Rome. Tomoyo took all of them in stride yet never showed any interest in his suit. Kyouya knew a challenge when he heard one and he was determined not to fail. After all, didn't he lose someone before just because he failed to tell her how he felt?
-0-0-0-
Tomoyo was busy sketching clothes for her new autumn-winter collection in her office when she heard a knock from the door. Her secretary, Chiharu Mihara, was an old friend. She knew that something was up if she'd taken the effort to get up from her desk work to fetch her. Her heart leaped.
"Tomoyo-san," the brown-haired woman said in her cheerful voice "there's someone here to see you."
The Daidouji heiress got up from her desk and smoothed her skirt. She was dressed for comfort in a casual yellow blouse and denim skirt. Her secretary grinned when she turned to her hand mirror and reapplied a candy-pink lip-gloss into her perfect pout. Grinning back, she asked "better?"
"So much better," her friend giggled. "It's Ohtori-sama. Please come quickly. He hates to wait."
"Let him," Tomoyo smiled mischievously. She walked like a woman who knew her worth. It was a confident and sexy strut that was definitely a hit in the streets. "He's courting me after all."
With a shake of her head, Chiharu followed her into the receiving area. She had changed ever since she had started courtship with the man in question.
The tall man was waiting at the comfortable dark blue leather couch. He stood up as soon as he saw her come in. She noticed idly that his movements were both easy and graceful, like a large cat. It was admirable that he had complete control over his tall frame and well-built body. "Good afternoon," he said smoothly.
She smiled brilliantly. "Good afternoon, Ohtori-san. I didn't know that you're here. Are you so bored at the office that you decided to come to mine?"
"I'm done for the day," he parried quickly "and if you aren't so idle, you would be too."
"I'm creating new clothes for my fashion collection which is just a hobby, of course. All of my sales reports and inventories are done as well," she said, stung.
Kyouya's smile was mysterious. "Did you notice anything while you were doing that?"
She looked slightly confused. "I didn't. There were an unusual number of toys that were bought yesterday that boosted our daily quota but there's nothing wrong with that…" Realization dawned on her face. "You did that."
He walked forward and placed a small pink envelope into her hand. She looked at it, dazed. His voice was low and gentle, "You're a workaholic, Daidouji-san. Would you like to come out and play hooky with me?"
"Are you asking me out… now?" Her voice was surprised but pleased as she read the contents of the invitation. Upon hearing her voice, his chest tightened. She was so easily pleased and so easily loved. "What did you do, Ohtori-san?"
"I asked for some help from old friends," he said airily. "Are you ready to go now? We're going to be late."
Tomoyo exchanged smiles with her secretary who waved at her. She didn't know that Chiharu had conspired with Kyouya to keep her afternoon clear for him. It was no secret that her friend was worried about her so when an ardent suitor came along she was more than willing to assist their blooming romance.
They rode in Kyouya's limousine through the daily traffic towards their destination. Tomoyo could hardly sit still as they entered the city premises. She was smiling as she watched the scenery of her hometown pass by in the window. It had been a while since she had come home to Tomoeda because she stayed in her penthouse suite at Tokyo for her work. At her unexpected homecoming she felt tears come into her eyes.
Kyouya noticed but did not say anything. He smiled to himself as the limousine pulled up in front of a small building. "We're here, Daidouji-san."
He helped her out of the limousine and did not let go of her hand. Her eyes widened as she read the sign over the gates. It was the only orphanage in Tomoeda. She used to spend some of her afternoons here for her community work. She didn't know how he found out about her soft spot! Turning to him, she gave his hand a squeeze.
"Kyouya! You're here! We're about to start!"
They both looked towards their left to see another tall man running towards them. He was blond, violet-eyed and grinning like an idiot. Upon seeing the fondness and exasperation that crossed his face she guessed that he must be very familiar with the stranger. The blond stopped at them and smiled down at her.
"I must be in the presence of the Little Queen," the blond said, voice low and seductively sweet. He bowed in front of her before focusing brilliant violet eyes into hers. "You are far more beautiful than your pictures. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Tamaki Suoh, your servant for the day."
Before she could say anything, a pair of twins arrived and pushed the blond out of the way. The dark-haired one bent down and gave her a European greeting which was a kiss on each cheek while the red-haired one kissed her hand. They said in unison, "Please ignore him. We're Hikaru and Kaoru Hitachiin. It's a pleasure to meet you at last."
"You devils! You destroyed my perfect entrance!" Tamaki exploded. He looked really offended as he berated the twins who simply stuck their tongues out to him. "Mom!"
Kyouya's voice was very cold. "Please don't use that nickname, Tamaki. You're embarrassing yourself."
Tomoyo's giggles got their attention. She turned to Kyouya. "Are these the friends that you're talking about? They're very lively."
He took her hand and tucked in under his arm. They walked inside, following the throng of young men who were happily arguing and teasing each other. All of the caretakers of the orphanage were aflutter with excitement. "They're the famous Ouran High School Host Club," he said simply.
An eyebrow was raised. He had anticipated that. Everyone always took the name the wrong way. Smiling easily, he replied at her silent question. "It's just a game that we played. We're handsome young men who wanted to entertain young women who also had free time and money."
"Such conceit," she chuckled yet she agreed that they were all very handsome and very charming. Her chosen host noted her reaction. "Let me guess. The blond who introduced himself as the heir to the Suoh Group is the Host Club King. The twins who are fashion designers are the Brotherly Love act. And those two who are bringing in the cakes and balloons are the loli-shota mascot and the stoic figure."
Kyouya nodded, pleased that she picked out all of their personalities upon meeting them. He led her inside the orphanage building where the hosts had decorated with lots of confetti and balloons. The main hall was filled with children and caretakers.
When she entered, she immediately noticed that the whole place was very different. There were more toys, repairs on the building and the caretakers looked slightly pleased. Perhaps they had a pay raise. She was jolted back into reality when the elderly woman who managed the orphanage came forward and shook hands with Kyouya.
"Thank you so much, Ohtori-sama," she said, tears of happiness in her eyes. "Your patronage is such a big help. All of the children are going into good homes. You have placed your money in a very good place."
Tomoyo's eyes widened with shock. She was right. Her eyes stared at the tall young man who was standing next her. She used to think that he was nothing but a stingy, cruel businessman who loved money too much… That changed in a single instant.
"You did that?" she asked in an undertone. Her eyes were wide with wonder. "I always tried to raise money for them but it was always just enough. You did the impossible…"
"I had some help," Kyouya said as he watched his friends play with the kids. The twins were with the little girls and their dolls. Tamaki was being bullied by a gaggle of young men who seemed amused by his backward impression of their lives. Honey and Mori were giving away cakes and refreshments to the caretakers who were vying for their attention. "It was very easy."
She giggled. "I'm glad that our toys are making them so happy."
Kyouya nodded, pleased. She was like a little girl in a strange place, curious and impish as she drank in all of the sights and sounds. He was finally getting somewhere.
"Tamaki?" A voice rang out over the din.
He stiffened. Tomoyo, with her hand tucked in his arm, felt it inexplicably. She turned towards him, slightly confused but understanding. Violet eyes turned towards a petite dark-haired woman wearing a pantsuit. The other woman walked towards the blond man- her husband, she supposed, by the way she was so familiar- and gave him a peck on his cheek.
Perceptive as always, Tomoyo noticed the strange rigidness of her host and his perfect mask in place. Kyouya looked calm, professional and unattainable. She knew that look. She knew the unavoidable darkness that crossed his eyes. She only knew it too well.
Tamaki led the newcomer towards them with a smile that could outshine the sun. He was so proud of her that he couldn't bear not to show her off. With a very charming smile to Tomoyo, he said loudly. "Let me introduce you to my wife, Daidouji-sama. This is Haruhi Suoh, my beloved, my kitten, my beautiful little princess."
Tomoyo suppressed a grin when Haruhi reached up and pinched her husband's cheek. Turning to the young lady in front of her, she smiled warmly. "It's very nice to meet you."
The dark-haired Daidouji felt comfortable around the other woman as they shook hands. But what a strange woman it was. She was androgynous, vaguely like a young boy. Her hair was short, her clothes were suited to her small body and her eyes were large and bright. She had the feeling that she was a no-nonsense and honest person just like her Sakura-chan.
"It's very nice to meet you too," said the heiress sincerely.
Haruhi turned to Kyouya. "Well done."
The shadow king nodded stiffly. "It was for a good cause."
"I kept telling Tamaki that we should help out more people," the brown-eyed woman said "instead of investing so much in art."
"But art exists to bring beauty into the world!" Tamaki burst out, wounded. "Just like me, my love! We should always have art in front of us just as I yearn to always be in front of you."
"Oh stop it," Haruhi chided, cheeks coloring. "You're embarrassing me in front of our guest. It's a shame that I can't leave you here."
They started to move away towards the children. Tomoyo smiled when she realized that they were still arguing.
"But how can you resist not adopting me? I am handsome, talented, charming…"
"You're annoying, Tamaki," was Haruhi's tart reply.
"You'll get used to them," Kyouya said as he watched them go. "They're a lot to handle but she did it."
Tomoyo's heart grew heavy when she felt him close up more. She understood more than he thought she did. Because hadn't she always known what it felt to want something that can never be yours?
To distract him, she led him towards the children. They played with little girls and their dolls; the little boys with their ball. They talked to the caretakers. (Kyouya gave them specific instructions on what to do with the money.) They stayed together and didn't even realize that they had separated themselves from the others.
"They look good together," Kaoru told his twin while they played baseball. "Kyouya-senpai is being very generous."
"You can say it's dangerous," Hikaru laughed as he tossed the ball back.
On the refreshments table, Honey turned to Mori who was busily serving drinks. "Kyou-chan likes Tomoyo-chan, ne?" he chirped.
A soft look passed over the martial artist's face. "Ah."
Tamaki and Haruhi were sitting on the receiving hall, watching the others work. He had an arm draped around her shoulder; she was holding his other hand. They had been married for three years. They were proud of it.
"He's moving on," the blond whispered to his wife. He knew all about it. He only pretended to be blind to avoid unpleasant confrontations. Perhaps it was good that the beautiful Daidouji heiress was helping him.
"Yes, he is." Haruhi agreed.
"I'm glad." Tamaki murmured as he shifted their position so that his head rested on her shoulder. Haruhi's eyes grew pensive but she did not comment when she saw Tomoyo coax Kyouya into eating a piece of cake from her fork. The shadow king looked surprised but pleased at her audacity.
-0-0-0-
When the day ended the Host Club waved goodbye to their new little friends. They lingered around the entrance of the orphanage, talking and laughing. Kyouya was steering her towards their limousine.
"Good work everyone!" Tamaki said buoyantly.
"You have to work with us on our new store," Hikaru told Tomoyo.
"I can't wait to see you again, Daidouji-chan," Honey said sincerely. He gave her the last cupcake.
"Ah," Mori agreed.
"You're very talented. I'm a fan of your Magical Girl toys." Kaoru complimented.
Tomoyo nodded and laughed and rained as many compliments as she could. She was vaguely shocked when Haruhi came forward and shook her hand again.
"Please come to dinner with us soon," she said simply.
Kyouya looked at her, not commenting.
Tamaki picked it up and said, "What a great idea! We would have a magnificent time!"
Tomoyo noticed his mood and smiled sincerely. "Yes, we'd love to."
The others let them go after that.
As they sat together inside the limousine, she turned to him with a radiant smile. "Thank you so much, Ohtori-san. I had a wonderful time. To repay you, I will take you out to dinner."
Kyouya looked surprised but pleased. He glanced at her, noting her bright expression. "Where should we go?"
"To my best friend's house," Tomoyo said mischievously.
"Are we welcome?" he asked, slightly surprised that she could offer her friend's house without batting an eyelash. "It's slightly late, you know. We could go to a restaurant."
She laughed. It was a beautiful sound like silver bells. "Of course, we are. It's not late. It's dinnertime. I would like you to meet my best friend just as you introduced me to yours. You would like her."
Kyouya nodded and gave the directions to their driver.
-0-0-0-
To be continued!
Author: Dark Hooded Eriol the Magician
Series: Ouran High School Host Club / Cardcaptor Sakura
Rating: T
Genre: Romance/ Angst
Status: In-progress
Disclaimer: The song is by DBSK and the characters are made by CLAMP and Hatori Bisco. Support them, please!
Summary: Some of us seek second chances. Will we be brave or will we be cowards again? There is only a choice to do what is right and what is true. Why did I fall in love with you? -KyouyaxTomoyo-
Chapter III
+0+0+
From the first day that I met you
I felt like I knew you
And the two of us melded together so naturally
+0+0+
Kyouya took several deep breaths to calm down. He reminded himself that it wasn't his father's idea to push him into an arranged marriage that was handled by the eccentric French heiress. It was the Amamiya-Daidouji family that had asked for their consent to see if he would oblige their little heiress.
He knew Renge from their rosy high school days so he knew what he was talking about. Although he had lost touch with most of his schoolmates from the very prestigious Ouran High School, he tended to bump into them from time to time. (They all inhabited the same world of the rich and famous elite citizens. It was a very small world. Everyone knew everything.) He thought that he shouldn't be surprised to see her again so soon, if you can call six years that.
The brown-haired heiress to a famous fashion house had always been a cheerful and optimistic girl who believed in true love. Maybe he shouldn't also be surprised to know that she had set up a successful matchmaking business on the side. (His senses became agitated. Why didn't he know that? He should have known that something like this was about to happen.) The marriage interview was going to be a disaster if Renge pushed him too much into a match that he didn't want just because the girl's parents wanted him. It was good news that he knew how to handle her: as firmly as he possibly could without her noticing.
Squaring his shoulders, he walked into certain doom.
"Hoshakuji-san," Kyouya Ohtori said formally as he approached the table. She got up and curtseyed with a large smile. He gestured for her to sit down with him as he occupied the seat across. "This is certainly a surprise."
"I was expecting you to know that my matchmaking business was handling your marriage interview." Renge Hoshakuji said smilingly. She hastily got her daily planner from her fashionable tote bag and checked it when she saw his face darken. Kyouya's face was blank and unreadable as ever so she wasn't sure how to handle him. "I'm always happy to help out my old schoolmates and my most favorite host, of course."
Kyouya's lips twitched. "I heard that you're successful because of your matchmaking skills, thanks to your old dating simulations. But I didn't understand just how popular your site is until now. I'm impressed."
"You should be," Renge said smugly. "And you should be even more surprised to know that this isn't my day job. It's just my hobby."
She laughed heartily at the shock on his face. It was nice to know that some people stayed the same. As a young teenager at school, she had fallen in love with the handsome young man in front of her. After the first tumultuous feelings of infatuation faded, fondness for him remained. "I was surprised because the Daidouji family matriarch picked you out from all of the candidates that I've emailed for her."
"I'm a catch, you know," Kyouya deadpanned. "All of the women want me."
"Not this woman!" Renge corrected him, smiling. "You might be my first love but you're just one of many now."
He nodded, acknowledging the engagement ring that glittered in the sunlight. Thanks to the dinner with his friends he was aware about the latest news about her. Thinking like the businessman that he was he analyzed the situation and how it would be used to his advantage. Starting with her, of course, he thought quickly.
Umehito Nekozawa was a very wealthy man who descended from aristocratic nobles. They also had some Russian royalty blood on their veins so they were very formidable in the international business world. Judging from the large princess-cut diamond that shone radiantly on white gold, the bridegroom hadn't spared any expense of using his large family holdings and jewelry business into getting the vest best for his love. Renge was very lucky to be loved by someone so wealthy and powerful. The dark-haired man offered a small smile. "Congratulations. Who is the lucky man?"
"You won't believe it but its Umehito-san," Renge burst into delighted laughter. She knew that their union was unusual but not totally unbelievable so she totally enjoyed people's faces when she shared her fabulous news. "The dark prince of the Black Magic Club is my only love now."
Kyouya cleared his throat. "Manager-san," he said softly. He gave her a very warm and charming smile that she returned at once. "You mentioned that this was just a hobby of yours. Why is that?"
She laughed. "I was bored with two of my old sets of friends so I introduced them to each other. Little did I know that they were attracted and didn't know how to approach so imagine my surprise when they thanked me for my help! My reputation spread out and here it was."
"You're gifted, that's why." He nodded, understanding. The black-haired man needed to know more about the Daidouji heiress because he'd never met her. "What does she look like? I trusted your intelligence records before when we worked on the Host Club and I'm quite disappointed to know that a picture isn't included this time. Why is that?"
Renge smiled mysteriously as she tilted her head sideways towards the entrance of the restaurant.
The hotel's only restaurant was well-furnished and full of antiques. In the muted light of the chandeliers and the soft jazz sounds, it was the perfect setting for a marriage interview. He followed her gaze towards the double doors and nearly gasped as the waiter led in a dark-haired girl who had her back to them. His eyes went wide as she turned around.
She was a beauty. There was no denying it. Her pale skin gleamed like pearls under the soft light from the candles; her long dark hair fell in gleaming waves down to her waist. His eyes traveled upwards to her face as she slowly walked towards them. They widened with recognition. It was her.
Kyouya felt his heartbeats accelerate. His palms became sweaty and he wiped them on his expensive slacks without a second thought. He silently berated himself for acting like a nervous teenager. It was simply because he wasn't one. The world knew him as a confident, attractive and serious young man. He walked as if he owned the world. Nothing had ever stopped him. No complicated business deals, no death threats and no overemotional Tamaki had ever stood in his way until today.
He didn't realize that Renge had gotten up and greeted the young woman cheerfully. They seemed to be familiar with each other because they had spent at least two minutes exchanging anecdotes and cooing over the glittering diamond ring. He stood in the sidelines, watching her without even noticing it.
She had such luminescent blue-violet eyes. That was the first thing that he noticed. They were like fine, large gemstones hiding behind a thick sooty veil. Soon his gaze wandered all over her beautiful face. Her face was a perfect oval with high cheekbones, a patrician nose and a sensual Cupid's bow mouth that ached to be kissed. Her slender but curvaceous frame was encased in an innocent white lace dress that further accentuated her pale skin. His hands suddenly itched to run themselves all over or at least capture her in a tight embrace…
Kyouya forced himself to look away, blushing lightly. It was truly the first time that he was honestly attracted to a beautiful woman and it unnerved him.
Renge turned to him. She was smiling. "Let me have the pleasure of introducing you to my dear friend, Kyouya Ohtori. He's a top CEO for the Ohtori group. Ohtori-san, please meet my good friend Tomoyo Daidouji, the Crystal Voice of Tokyo."
Tomoyo laughed in spite of her embarrassment and shock. She stared at him for a minute before she nodded with recognition. His heart leaped when she stared back. "I thought I told you never to call me that," she said in a mock-angry voice before turning to him. Her smile was radiant. "It's a pleasure to meet you at last."
He smiled warmly and took her hand. "No, it's my pleasure."
"You two know each other already?" the brown-haired matchmaker's brows knitted together. Her eyes sparkled with delight though when she watched Kyouya lean down and brush Tomoyo's fingers against his lips. "That's perfect!"
When he looked up, he saw that her cheeks were bright red and her eyes reflected an emotion that he'd seen in his own eyes many times. Fear, longing, uncertainty and despair for a thing that had been lost. He felt something prick his heart. Why was such a beautiful girl so sad?
"Have you ordered anything yet?" Tomoyo said in an oddly high-pitched voice. She looked at her friend pleadingly. "How does this thing work anyway? I honestly don't have any idea on how marriage interviews are supposed to go…"
"It usually involves your parents discussing your futures," Renge said merrily to their horror "and you won't have any say about it. But since I'm running a rather unusual company, the parents are not involved until you make a decision about yourselves. You're both adults. My job is just to make sure that everything goes smoothly for you two."
Tomoyo nodded, understanding. Renge's matchmaking business was very successful. She had heard something from her casual acquaintances about the unusual but effective way of matchmaking that she employed. Now she understood why. The brown-haired young woman seemed capable and professional in a field that she obviously enjoyed.
The dark-haired man raised an eyebrow but said nothing as Renge prattled on about the most recent success stories of her website. He had to confirm if the rate of success was high before he agreed to anything. Since it was a marriage interview he had to be careful since his father might suddenly decide to go through with the wedding. Yet after a glance at his prospective candidate he decided that it might not be a bad thing after all.
"Thank you for explaining," Tomoyo said, smiling sweetly. "I was quite lost for a moment there."
A cheerful ringing tone interrupted their conversation. Renge returned an apologetic smile and excused herself for her very important phone call.
Kyouya turned to her. "So, Daidouji-san, we meet at last."
She jumped. His voice was deep and pleasant. Her gaze swiveled to the man sitting across her with curiosity. Upon reading the file, she had imagined that the man her mother had chosen would be stuffy, stiff and boring. Thank God that she was wrong. The dark-haired man carried a mysterious and magnetic aura that immediately drew her in. He was very handsome in his casual yet expensive clothes which spoke of his good taste and style. Her eyes wandered upwards to his handsome face and towards his eyes.
A gasp escaped her. He had such deep and impenetrable blue-gray eyes behind his glasses. They bore down into hers, digging deep and searching into her soul. She could swear that he was hypnotizing her because she could barely look away. "Yes," she agreed.
"Three times a charm," he said with a small wink. She giggled in spite of herself. That was true. They had first seen each other in the benefit party then at the restaurant and now they were sitting together for their first marriage interview. "I don't usually believe in coincidences but I'll have to let the fates win this one."
Tomoyo Daidouji, the girl who was aware of the magic that existed in the universe, laughed nervously. She had to give her cousin props for her prediction. There was something special about this man. "True," she nodded "and the next thing we'll know is that our chaperone over there will have to leave and we'll be alone. Oh my. That sounds such like a cliché."
Kyouya smiled at her statement. He noticed that Renge was coming over to them, looking apologetic yet slightly happy.
"I'm so sorry but could you please excuse me? My father is requesting for my presence at home because he wants to plan my engagement party." Renge shared a secret smile with Tomoyo. "And Umehito-san is anxious to spend some time with me before he flies back to Russia."
"It's no problem," Tomoyo said gently. "We can handle it from here."
"Thank you so much," Renge said, waving as she walked away. "Have a great time."
They watched her leave before they signaled a passing waiter for an order. He asked for coffee; she asked for tea. They settled into their seats, not feeling awkward at all. Somehow they felt at ease with each other.
"So," the dark-haired young woman said as she leaned forward, "let's start. My mother is going to grill me all about you and I need you to know a few things."
"Go on." Kyouya was interested to know what she wanted to say. He'd never met another woman who was as refreshingly honest as Haruhi. Tomoyo's smile was bittersweet. To him, it was very seductive.
"Don't fall in love with me."
-0-0-0-
After that fateful day, they began to spend more time together. It was inevitable because they suited each other very well. They scheduled weekly dates, called each other often and became acquainted with each other. When the news broke that the last unmarried Ohtori was courting the Little Queen, the reactions were explosive.
Her mother was delighted. ("I knew my plan would work!" Sonomi crowed.) His father was pleased. ("I can't wait to work with them." Yoshio Ohtori said.) The rest of the world speculated and wondered about what could possibly attract an artistic heart like hers to a cold-hearted man like him.
Yet the oddly matched pair paid no attention. They continued their courtship for months. Everyone eagerly awaited the wedding but nothing happened. They were all surprised but there was no comment. Perhaps they were taking their time. Maybe they were busy. The possibilities were endless.
Tomoyo merely smiled.
Kyouya worked harder to keep that smile. He took her out to first-class restaurants and amusement parks on weekends that he was free. Once he even swept her away to an afternoon in Rome. Tomoyo took all of them in stride yet never showed any interest in his suit. Kyouya knew a challenge when he heard one and he was determined not to fail. After all, didn't he lose someone before just because he failed to tell her how he felt?
-0-0-0-
Tomoyo was busy sketching clothes for her new autumn-winter collection in her office when she heard a knock from the door. Her secretary, Chiharu Mihara, was an old friend. She knew that something was up if she'd taken the effort to get up from her desk work to fetch her. Her heart leaped.
"Tomoyo-san," the brown-haired woman said in her cheerful voice "there's someone here to see you."
The Daidouji heiress got up from her desk and smoothed her skirt. She was dressed for comfort in a casual yellow blouse and denim skirt. Her secretary grinned when she turned to her hand mirror and reapplied a candy-pink lip-gloss into her perfect pout. Grinning back, she asked "better?"
"So much better," her friend giggled. "It's Ohtori-sama. Please come quickly. He hates to wait."
"Let him," Tomoyo smiled mischievously. She walked like a woman who knew her worth. It was a confident and sexy strut that was definitely a hit in the streets. "He's courting me after all."
With a shake of her head, Chiharu followed her into the receiving area. She had changed ever since she had started courtship with the man in question.
The tall man was waiting at the comfortable dark blue leather couch. He stood up as soon as he saw her come in. She noticed idly that his movements were both easy and graceful, like a large cat. It was admirable that he had complete control over his tall frame and well-built body. "Good afternoon," he said smoothly.
She smiled brilliantly. "Good afternoon, Ohtori-san. I didn't know that you're here. Are you so bored at the office that you decided to come to mine?"
"I'm done for the day," he parried quickly "and if you aren't so idle, you would be too."
"I'm creating new clothes for my fashion collection which is just a hobby, of course. All of my sales reports and inventories are done as well," she said, stung.
Kyouya's smile was mysterious. "Did you notice anything while you were doing that?"
She looked slightly confused. "I didn't. There were an unusual number of toys that were bought yesterday that boosted our daily quota but there's nothing wrong with that…" Realization dawned on her face. "You did that."
He walked forward and placed a small pink envelope into her hand. She looked at it, dazed. His voice was low and gentle, "You're a workaholic, Daidouji-san. Would you like to come out and play hooky with me?"
"Are you asking me out… now?" Her voice was surprised but pleased as she read the contents of the invitation. Upon hearing her voice, his chest tightened. She was so easily pleased and so easily loved. "What did you do, Ohtori-san?"
"I asked for some help from old friends," he said airily. "Are you ready to go now? We're going to be late."
Tomoyo exchanged smiles with her secretary who waved at her. She didn't know that Chiharu had conspired with Kyouya to keep her afternoon clear for him. It was no secret that her friend was worried about her so when an ardent suitor came along she was more than willing to assist their blooming romance.
They rode in Kyouya's limousine through the daily traffic towards their destination. Tomoyo could hardly sit still as they entered the city premises. She was smiling as she watched the scenery of her hometown pass by in the window. It had been a while since she had come home to Tomoeda because she stayed in her penthouse suite at Tokyo for her work. At her unexpected homecoming she felt tears come into her eyes.
Kyouya noticed but did not say anything. He smiled to himself as the limousine pulled up in front of a small building. "We're here, Daidouji-san."
He helped her out of the limousine and did not let go of her hand. Her eyes widened as she read the sign over the gates. It was the only orphanage in Tomoeda. She used to spend some of her afternoons here for her community work. She didn't know how he found out about her soft spot! Turning to him, she gave his hand a squeeze.
"Kyouya! You're here! We're about to start!"
They both looked towards their left to see another tall man running towards them. He was blond, violet-eyed and grinning like an idiot. Upon seeing the fondness and exasperation that crossed his face she guessed that he must be very familiar with the stranger. The blond stopped at them and smiled down at her.
"I must be in the presence of the Little Queen," the blond said, voice low and seductively sweet. He bowed in front of her before focusing brilliant violet eyes into hers. "You are far more beautiful than your pictures. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Tamaki Suoh, your servant for the day."
Before she could say anything, a pair of twins arrived and pushed the blond out of the way. The dark-haired one bent down and gave her a European greeting which was a kiss on each cheek while the red-haired one kissed her hand. They said in unison, "Please ignore him. We're Hikaru and Kaoru Hitachiin. It's a pleasure to meet you at last."
"You devils! You destroyed my perfect entrance!" Tamaki exploded. He looked really offended as he berated the twins who simply stuck their tongues out to him. "Mom!"
Kyouya's voice was very cold. "Please don't use that nickname, Tamaki. You're embarrassing yourself."
Tomoyo's giggles got their attention. She turned to Kyouya. "Are these the friends that you're talking about? They're very lively."
He took her hand and tucked in under his arm. They walked inside, following the throng of young men who were happily arguing and teasing each other. All of the caretakers of the orphanage were aflutter with excitement. "They're the famous Ouran High School Host Club," he said simply.
An eyebrow was raised. He had anticipated that. Everyone always took the name the wrong way. Smiling easily, he replied at her silent question. "It's just a game that we played. We're handsome young men who wanted to entertain young women who also had free time and money."
"Such conceit," she chuckled yet she agreed that they were all very handsome and very charming. Her chosen host noted her reaction. "Let me guess. The blond who introduced himself as the heir to the Suoh Group is the Host Club King. The twins who are fashion designers are the Brotherly Love act. And those two who are bringing in the cakes and balloons are the loli-shota mascot and the stoic figure."
Kyouya nodded, pleased that she picked out all of their personalities upon meeting them. He led her inside the orphanage building where the hosts had decorated with lots of confetti and balloons. The main hall was filled with children and caretakers.
When she entered, she immediately noticed that the whole place was very different. There were more toys, repairs on the building and the caretakers looked slightly pleased. Perhaps they had a pay raise. She was jolted back into reality when the elderly woman who managed the orphanage came forward and shook hands with Kyouya.
"Thank you so much, Ohtori-sama," she said, tears of happiness in her eyes. "Your patronage is such a big help. All of the children are going into good homes. You have placed your money in a very good place."
Tomoyo's eyes widened with shock. She was right. Her eyes stared at the tall young man who was standing next her. She used to think that he was nothing but a stingy, cruel businessman who loved money too much… That changed in a single instant.
"You did that?" she asked in an undertone. Her eyes were wide with wonder. "I always tried to raise money for them but it was always just enough. You did the impossible…"
"I had some help," Kyouya said as he watched his friends play with the kids. The twins were with the little girls and their dolls. Tamaki was being bullied by a gaggle of young men who seemed amused by his backward impression of their lives. Honey and Mori were giving away cakes and refreshments to the caretakers who were vying for their attention. "It was very easy."
She giggled. "I'm glad that our toys are making them so happy."
Kyouya nodded, pleased. She was like a little girl in a strange place, curious and impish as she drank in all of the sights and sounds. He was finally getting somewhere.
"Tamaki?" A voice rang out over the din.
He stiffened. Tomoyo, with her hand tucked in his arm, felt it inexplicably. She turned towards him, slightly confused but understanding. Violet eyes turned towards a petite dark-haired woman wearing a pantsuit. The other woman walked towards the blond man- her husband, she supposed, by the way she was so familiar- and gave him a peck on his cheek.
Perceptive as always, Tomoyo noticed the strange rigidness of her host and his perfect mask in place. Kyouya looked calm, professional and unattainable. She knew that look. She knew the unavoidable darkness that crossed his eyes. She only knew it too well.
Tamaki led the newcomer towards them with a smile that could outshine the sun. He was so proud of her that he couldn't bear not to show her off. With a very charming smile to Tomoyo, he said loudly. "Let me introduce you to my wife, Daidouji-sama. This is Haruhi Suoh, my beloved, my kitten, my beautiful little princess."
Tomoyo suppressed a grin when Haruhi reached up and pinched her husband's cheek. Turning to the young lady in front of her, she smiled warmly. "It's very nice to meet you."
The dark-haired Daidouji felt comfortable around the other woman as they shook hands. But what a strange woman it was. She was androgynous, vaguely like a young boy. Her hair was short, her clothes were suited to her small body and her eyes were large and bright. She had the feeling that she was a no-nonsense and honest person just like her Sakura-chan.
"It's very nice to meet you too," said the heiress sincerely.
Haruhi turned to Kyouya. "Well done."
The shadow king nodded stiffly. "It was for a good cause."
"I kept telling Tamaki that we should help out more people," the brown-eyed woman said "instead of investing so much in art."
"But art exists to bring beauty into the world!" Tamaki burst out, wounded. "Just like me, my love! We should always have art in front of us just as I yearn to always be in front of you."
"Oh stop it," Haruhi chided, cheeks coloring. "You're embarrassing me in front of our guest. It's a shame that I can't leave you here."
They started to move away towards the children. Tomoyo smiled when she realized that they were still arguing.
"But how can you resist not adopting me? I am handsome, talented, charming…"
"You're annoying, Tamaki," was Haruhi's tart reply.
"You'll get used to them," Kyouya said as he watched them go. "They're a lot to handle but she did it."
Tomoyo's heart grew heavy when she felt him close up more. She understood more than he thought she did. Because hadn't she always known what it felt to want something that can never be yours?
To distract him, she led him towards the children. They played with little girls and their dolls; the little boys with their ball. They talked to the caretakers. (Kyouya gave them specific instructions on what to do with the money.) They stayed together and didn't even realize that they had separated themselves from the others.
"They look good together," Kaoru told his twin while they played baseball. "Kyouya-senpai is being very generous."
"You can say it's dangerous," Hikaru laughed as he tossed the ball back.
On the refreshments table, Honey turned to Mori who was busily serving drinks. "Kyou-chan likes Tomoyo-chan, ne?" he chirped.
A soft look passed over the martial artist's face. "Ah."
Tamaki and Haruhi were sitting on the receiving hall, watching the others work. He had an arm draped around her shoulder; she was holding his other hand. They had been married for three years. They were proud of it.
"He's moving on," the blond whispered to his wife. He knew all about it. He only pretended to be blind to avoid unpleasant confrontations. Perhaps it was good that the beautiful Daidouji heiress was helping him.
"Yes, he is." Haruhi agreed.
"I'm glad." Tamaki murmured as he shifted their position so that his head rested on her shoulder. Haruhi's eyes grew pensive but she did not comment when she saw Tomoyo coax Kyouya into eating a piece of cake from her fork. The shadow king looked surprised but pleased at her audacity.
-0-0-0-
When the day ended the Host Club waved goodbye to their new little friends. They lingered around the entrance of the orphanage, talking and laughing. Kyouya was steering her towards their limousine.
"Good work everyone!" Tamaki said buoyantly.
"You have to work with us on our new store," Hikaru told Tomoyo.
"I can't wait to see you again, Daidouji-chan," Honey said sincerely. He gave her the last cupcake.
"Ah," Mori agreed.
"You're very talented. I'm a fan of your Magical Girl toys." Kaoru complimented.
Tomoyo nodded and laughed and rained as many compliments as she could. She was vaguely shocked when Haruhi came forward and shook her hand again.
"Please come to dinner with us soon," she said simply.
Kyouya looked at her, not commenting.
Tamaki picked it up and said, "What a great idea! We would have a magnificent time!"
Tomoyo noticed his mood and smiled sincerely. "Yes, we'd love to."
The others let them go after that.
As they sat together inside the limousine, she turned to him with a radiant smile. "Thank you so much, Ohtori-san. I had a wonderful time. To repay you, I will take you out to dinner."
Kyouya looked surprised but pleased. He glanced at her, noting her bright expression. "Where should we go?"
"To my best friend's house," Tomoyo said mischievously.
"Are we welcome?" he asked, slightly surprised that she could offer her friend's house without batting an eyelash. "It's slightly late, you know. We could go to a restaurant."
She laughed. It was a beautiful sound like silver bells. "Of course, we are. It's not late. It's dinnertime. I would like you to meet my best friend just as you introduced me to yours. You would like her."
Kyouya nodded and gave the directions to their driver.
-0-0-0-
To be continued!