[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-
-0-0-0-
"Hello, Ohtori-kun? Can we meet up tonight? I have something to tell you."
Speak of the devil, Kyouya nearly laughed. It was the woman of the hour.
Tomoyo Daidouji.
His heart resumed beating normally. The dark-haired businessman turned his back from the door to look at the fantastic view of the city below him. It was the top floor and to them, it was already the top of the world. Everyone in their right minds would covet what they all had. They were young, rich, successful and busy. Why did he feel so alone?
If she was there then he didn't feel it so much. Upon hearing her voice, he forced himself to calm down. She must admire his coolness and efficiency. There was no need to be excited. All of the girls he knew fell over their feet when he applied his natural technique.
"Daidouji-san, I was just about to ask you as well," Kyouya said softly. Her chuckle made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. Such a devilish woman, he thought involuntarily. "To what do I owe this honor?"
The dark-haired man's eyes landed on the pile of paperwork in front of his desk. He was simply too busy to dilly-dally with anything but he ignored it. There was time if one knew how to use it. He knew that the best of all.
"I miss you," her voice said gently.
Kyouya was taken off-guard. He didn't think that it would take her such a short time to say such intimate words to him. Perhaps there was progress after all. He would be more surprised if she hadn't fallen for any of his charms yet. (Tamaki would be heartbroken. He had trained them all to be first-class hosts.) What he didn't expect was the frankness in her voice as well as something sweet and indefinable that lingered in her words. Breathing deeply, he decided that now was the best time for a bold action.
"I feel the same," Kyouya confessed very softly. He was trembling all over because he'd never been so honest or so vulnerable. Nobody had ever heard him say anything that was as raw or as emotional. Daidouji should be flattered. She should be speechless and then nervous. Then he would soothe her and everything will be according to his plans…
He heard giggles instead. Tomoyo had a very lovely laugh like tinkling silver bells. It made his heart race and his face flush. He could listen to her laugh all day. Or he would do anything to keep her laughing. It was her laughter that made him want to be near her. The dark-haired man was more aware of the dark fleeting looks in her eyes and the stillness that gripped her body than she knew. If she possessed such a large amount of feminine charm in just her voice then it was futile to enumerate her other qualities. He was seduced before he even knew it.
Mentally shaking himself like a dog ridding himself of water, he resumed a businesslike tone. "Will you go to dinner with me? You were very kind to introduce your friends to me last time we met. My friends were delighted with you and would like to repay the favor as well."
Tomoyo's answer was quick and eager. "Oh, are they? I would be happy to oblige them."
"Shall I pick you up at seven at your penthouse?" Kyouya asked, as formal and practical as ever. He felt excited at the prospect of seeing her again. "You don't have to dress up either. They're firm believers of casual elegance."
"I'm at the office," she corrected sweetly. "You could say shabby chic, you know. I've had meetings all day so I don't have any time to change. Will that be okay?"
"Of course," he nodded. "That's all right. I will see you then."
"See you later," Tomoyo said cheerfully. To his immense surprise, she made a kissing sound on the receiver before she hung up.
Kyouya replaced his mobile phone on top of his desk. Smiling, he resumed his paperwork.
-0-0-0-
At lunchtime, Kyouya's work was interrupted again by his nervous secretary. Masking his irritation, he adjusted his glasses as he looked at her. Mikuru was a shy thing but she was very good at accounting and lots of other useful little things that made his life easier. Of course he knew about her not-so-subtle crush on him but he never encouraged it. She should know her place. His secretary visibly swallowed when she saw his obvious displeasure.
"What is it this time?" He asked frostily.
"T-There is someone here to see you, Ohtori-sama," Mikuru choked out. She was trembling already. Good God, these women, he thought sourly. They didn't have any ounce of bravery like Haruhi.
"Who dares to interrupt my work on a Monday?" Kyouya asked calmly. He hated it when people approached him on the first day of the week. It threw his whole week off-schedule. It was also inconvenient for him to accommodate someone without an appointment. He looked at Mikuru coldly. "I thought I instructed you to turn anyone away when I am very busy."
"Are you too busy to have lunch with your father?"
Kyouya's insides froze. He slowly looked to his left to see the Ohtori patriarch enter the room confidently. Masking his annoyance, he opted for a bland smile as he stood up to receive him. The latter's father nodded to the fidgeting young woman and she scurried out of the door.
"No, I'm not." He said coolly. "What brings you here, Father?"
"I'm just checking on you," his father replied in the same cold tone. He adjusted his glasses as he surveyed the room while his son who had managed their corporation for some years struggled to hide his irritation. His youngest son was the most talented yet he was also the most unreadable. Perhaps it was a requirement for success.
"The company is very successful," Kyouya remarked, breathing more deeply. He wasn't about to break his cover in front of his father. He had perfected his mask. Nobody, not even his father, would know that there was one. "I hope that you're proud that you have named me as your successor."
His father did not say anything. Cool blue eyes scanned his son's face for a moment before he smirked. Yoshio Ohtori was not known for being affectionate or caring towards his family because he had been raised to value family honor and business ethics more. He knew that it was his greatest mistake but what's done was done.
"I have yet to see anything," Yoshio retorted slowly. He was getting old, he knew. His sons had grown up and taken over. He was slowly giving up his control over their assets for them. A man had to prepare for his retirement. "Don't disappoint me, Kyouya-san."
Kyouya wished that he didn't hate his old man so much. If Yoshio was kinder, more caring or more open to them then he would have given anything for his father's approval. He had known since he was a child that his father didn't see them as children but as pawns for his power. So he had sought ways to be better, stronger and more cunning than his older brothers to force him to acknowledge their existence.
He dared not to believe that his father was expecting greater things from him. It whetted his appetite more. Nodding slowly, he watched his father walk towards the door before turning to him. "We shall have lunch together. Set aside your work. We have important business to discuss."
Since he couldn't refuse a direct order from the man who built the company from scratch, he turned off his laptop computer and shoved it inside his briefcase. He picked it up as well as his mobile phone. Throwing one last glance at the pile of unfinished work, he followed him out of the room.
Yoshio decided to dine at a first-class Italian restaurant in the business district. Neither of them spoke on the short drive. They were both powerful, willful men. The father was as cold as ice; his son was as firm as stone. They did not know how to handle their relationship beyond what they already knew.
The Ohtori family was a long and noble lineage that claimed connections to the royal family. They had successfully tied the medical world together through their sheer determination and persistence. They were known as the clan of dark kings and shadow courts because they had shown an amazing aptitude of handling the darker side of business. Nobody could expect to outwit them. Nobody could surpass them. Everybody avoided making enemies with the Ohtori.
Kyouya knew the exact measure of his family's wealth and influence. He did not shy away from it. He thrived in it. He was not afraid of making harsh decisions or taking risks. The turbulence, struggles and challenges that was his natural turf had made him into a formidable man. His father ended up respecting his efforts. As soon as he graduated from university with the highest honors he was named as the next successor. The taste of success was still the best. He'd never allow himself to forget that. It was the closest thing to an acknowledgement from his father so he was not about to let him down.
After they had eaten their lunch in complete silence, Kyouya was quite surprised when his father suddenly spoke up.
"You're twenty-eight. Am I correct, Kyouya-san?" Yoshio said slowly. He watched his son give him a calculating stare before answering yes. "I believe that it's about time for you to settle down. How is your suit with Daidouji-sama's heiress doing?"
"It's going smoothly," his son answered.
His father actually smiled. "I heard about the generous amount that you donated to her pet orphanage."
Kyouya hid his shock. His father always knew everything after all. "Yes. It was necessary."
"I heard that your friends were also involved. It was good press for all of you," continued the Ohtori patriarch. "Did she fall for it?"
"I should think so," said his son.
Yoshio stared at him carefully. He had always believed that his children had grown up into fine people. They were raised strictly into following the rules. His reward for their obedience and filial piety were good marriages that would secure their futures forever.
Arranged marriages in the upper class weren't uncommon. There were still old families that believed in such strict rules because it was their way. There was no sense in turning their back on their pasts. Besides it always worked out for everyone's best interests. He had done well with his three older children. He would not fail with his last unmarried son.
Taking a slow but sure route would definitely work. Kyouya was still young and desirable to the marriage market. He had come into marriageable age. From what he had exhibited in the past few years, he believed that he was ready for the next big step of his life. Even if he did not want to, there were ways to persuade him.
Yoshio took a sip of the vintage wine that they ordered and nodded approvingly. It was very fine indeed. He looked at his son and cleared his throat. "Daidouji-san's daughter is very pretty. She reminds me of her mother's cousin, Nadeshiko-san, very much."
His son nodded in agreement.
"It would surprise you but I was briefly considered as a good match for Daidouji Sonomi-san. Of course, she used to be known as Amamiya-san before her marriage. We used to be friends until your grandparents stepped in. She rejected our suit and we've never spoken since." Yoshio's voice became soft and sad. His son stared at his father with mounting surprise. "I've always thought that she was a fine woman who had a strong mind. It would please me if we could become family through you."
Kyouya's eyes widened as the truth sank in. His father was actually fond of someone else. He was also a human who had emotions and regrets. It was slightly disturbing to him. He was so used to his father's cold indifference that he had never considered befriending his father. He had only concentrated on winning his acknowledgment but not his affection.
Yoshio noticed his son's shocked face. He smiled in spite of himself. Perhaps he was getting old and soft inside. His old friend, Yuzuru Suoh, would have fits over this. "I believe that you and Daidouji-san's daughter fit each other. Why don't you consider proposing to her as soon as possible?"
The dark-haired king felt his cheeks heat up. He had never shown emotions to his father so he was quite embarrassed. His father approved of Tomoyo. He could not believe his ears. His father wanted him to marry Tomoyo...
"I will." Kyouya said seriously. "I will marry her."
His father looked surprised at his determination but recovered swiftly. Practical as always, he added, "It will be beneficial to our family. She's got good pedigree, riches and plenty of connections. I should think that she is more than qualified to join us."
She is also kind and sweet, Kyouya thought quickly. She is very devoted to the people she loves. She will not be happy with a business arrangement. She will rather have love. How very like Haruhi. Pushing the thought away from his mind required some effort. He gave his father a very confident smile. "I believe so. Do I have your blessing?"
He's been thinking about it for a while, Yoshio thought with satisfaction. My son is ready for this. "You know that you do."
Kyouya's mind raced. He was planning.
There was no time to lose.
-0-0-0-
"Hikaru. Kaoru. I have something for you to do."
"I know, Honey-san. Can you please put my order on your first priority? This is an emergency."
"Mori-san, can you please make sure that Honey-san doesn't get distracted? I thank you for the intelligence report, by the way."
"Tamaki, where have you been all afternoon? You should have taken over the paperwork instead of staying in the marketing department. If you don't get your ass to work soon, I will tell your wife about that marketing executive! By the way...This is killing me but I need some help. I-I'm proposing."
"Hello, Haruhi? What do you think about Daidouji-san?"
She's a nice girl. You suit each other very well.
"Thank you." That's just like you. You don't notice my nervousness in hearing your voice. You don't see how much you can destroy me with your blunt honesty."We'll see each other tonight."
There was one last phone call to make.
"Hello, Daidouji-san. Will it be okay if we meet at the restaurant instead? I'm sending the driver over to pick you up."
-0-0-0-
The Host Club was early. They waited for their shadow king at Bon Sejour (Pleasant Journey as Tamaki had helpfully translated to their amused exasperation on their first visit), their favorite French restaurant. They had the best table as well as the best service. All of the female patrons threw covetous looks every now and then towards their direction while all of the males ignored them as much as they could.
They were seated as followed: Tamaki and Haruhi at the head, the twins at the left, the cousins on the right.
Tamaki looked at his friends and sighed. "Why are you all here? I thought it was just dinner for four."
"Don't be so possessive, Tono*," the twins chorused. "You're not the only one he called."
"That is true," Haruhi agreed. "Kyouya wanted all of us to be here. I think he needs us more than ever."
Honey took a bite out of his chocolate cake. He never grew out of his love for sweets. Nodding with appreciation, he said, "Kyou-chan must be planning something wonderful."
"I should hope so," Hikaru said grumpily. "I had to extract myself from my creative mood."
"Yes, he was." Kaoru piped up. He threw a flirty wink at a pretty strawberry blonde on the other table. Turning his gaze to his friends, he smiled because they had all grown up somehow. "It's not a big deal though. How is Akako-san and Akihiko-chan, Honey-senpai?"
Honey grinned at the mention of his wife and son. They had married when they were both twenty-four but it still felt like yesterday. His friends were all fond of her as she was of them. But she always declined the opportunity to sit in on their weekly Host Club meetings. "They are doing great, thank you."
"I wonder what Kyouya is up to," Tamaki mused although he already had inkling on what it was.
Haruhi squeezed his hand. She smiled up at him. He couldn't help but smile back. "He'll be fine."
They went silent when Kyouya arrived. He was dressed in a charcoal gray suit with a blue tie. As always, he looked respectable and refined. He smiled coolly at his friends before he sat down. Everyone couldn't help but grin back.
"I'm sorry if I called all of you suddenly," Kyouya started. His voice was low and soft. "I would require some help from all of you. I've always been grateful for whatever help that you have extended on my courtship of Daidouji-san but I have to ask for more. It is not known to many but my family is angling into a marriage alliance with Daidouji-san."
They all breathed a sigh of relief. Of all the women that Kyouya had courted, she was the best of them all. Unknown to the shadow king but it was only Tomoyo who had ever made him smile without calculation. That was a very great thing.
"So that is what it's about," Kaoru said, nodding vigorously. "Do you need any ideas?"
"Of course I do," said the dark-haired king. "I need all of your help. When I make my proposal, I want to ask for your help to pull out all of the stops. We must sweep her off her feet. Since the Host Club is famous for its excessive and debauched practices, I think I approached the right group."
All of them laughed.
Kyouya adjusted his glasses. "When she comes in for our dinner, I would appreciate if you would keep quiet. You all have loud mouths but you have to keep them shut. Understood?"
All of them nodded, slightly scared. Kyouya was very scary when he was serious.
"She's very pretty," Hikaru ventured. "Her talent in fashion is a credit to her."
Honey laughed as he waved his fork. "She bakes sweet things according to Akako."
"Her heart is in the right place," Kaoru said enthusiastically. "She's done some really nice things for the orphanage. I believe that you met her at the benefit party that she organized to raise funds for it."
"She looks practical and down-to-earth," Haruhi added.
Tamaki sparkled at her remark. Turning flaming violet eyes to her, he began another long and grandiose speech that made all of them roll around with laughter. (She had rolled her eyes at her husband and deadpanned every single point.)
Kyouya listened to his friend's comments carefully. They were all very supportive of him. Even though he was raised to trust no one but himself, he could not help but trust them. His mobile phone vibrated on his pocket. His heart leaped. She was here.
The Host Club went quiet for the second time that evening when she arrived.
All of them turned towards their right as an awestruck waiter led the Daidouji heiress to them. She took their breath away in her charcoal gray sheath dress, pearl necklace and suede gray pumps. Long, candle-shaped fingers clutched the handle of an expensive Birkin bag. Her long dark hair was pulled back by a tortoiseshell barrette but soft tendrils framed her face. Her makeup was perfectly applied; her smile was blinding.
"Here you go, ma'am." The waiter said in a low voice. Kyouya noticed with some irritation that he was staring at her too much. Unable to help himself, he got up and pulled out a chair for her before he could do it. With a discreet nod to dismiss him, the waiter slunk away.
"Good evening," Tomoyo greeted shyly. She realized that she was seated next to Kyouya at the other end of the table. All of them looked eager to see her. "I hope I'm not yet late."
"You're just in time!" Tamaki said brightly. His violet eyes were twinkling. It was not lost on them that Kyouya and Tomoyo were dressed in the same color. They looked good together. "Shall we order?"
As the others became busy telling the waiter about their orders, Tomoyo leaned slightly towards Kyouya. Her voice was soft and seductive. "You look nice tonight."
"So do you," he replied, smirking. "Was it a long day?"
"Very long," Tomoyo sighed slightly. Sensing his concern, she gave him another bright smile. "I'm fine, Ohtori-san. What do you recommend from the menu?"
Kyouya noted her evasive attitude before answering her question. After they ordered, they joined in the bright and sparkling conversation of their friends. Everyone was in an easygoing and cheerful mood. Even when the food arrived, they still continued their friendly banter.
"So, you are the famous Ouran High School Host Club." Tomoyo said, laughing. She looked at the handsome young men around her before nodding approvingly. They were all well-bred, handsome and charming. "You must have broken a lot of hearts."
"Only Kyouya breaks hearts," Hikaru teased.
Tomoyo threw him an inquisitive glance that the dark king avoided. Her eyes were laughing at him.
"We were very kind to the ladies," Tamaki proclaimed grandly. "We were their noble, selfless servants. We serve the young women who also had time and money just like us."
She giggled as she noticed Kyouya's eye twitch. "Why did you found the Host Club anyway?"
"It was because I wanted some friends. Kyouya agreed to go along with me because he also needed some friends," Tamaki smiled impishly. He looked adorable. "We meticulously chose our members for their qualities."
"That was very wise," Tomoyo agreed. She stared at them carefully before she said, "You all fit the type."
To their surprise, she pointed out who owned the Price Type, the Little Devil Type, and the Stoic Type, the Loli-Shota type as well as the Natural Type. ("You must have been quite a sight when you cosplay.") Her enthusiasm was were all laughing by the end of her short speech. They've never seen an outsider who was so knowledgeable about their chosen genre. She was so fascinating because she was not as obsessive as Renge was.
"What about Kyouya-senpai?" Hikaru asked a mischievous glint in his eyes. "What do you think about him?"
"He's a Cool type, that's for sure." Tomoyo looked at him thoughtfully. "He's the dark side of the Prince. I have the feeling that all of the girls wanted to change him. Or they pined for him because he was unattainable."
"Very good," laughed Tamaki. She hit him right on target. "You seem to know Kyouya so well."
Her eyes hardened like gemstones. "I knew someone like him," she said shortly.
Kyouya's eyebrow rose. That did not sound very good to him. He would not accept any comparison to her previous boyfriend, especially if the said previous boyfriend treated her so badly.
"Excuse me," Haruhi broke the silence. She looked very calm and composed. "I have to go to the ladies' room."
"I'll go with you," Tomoyo said hastily. They got up from the table and left them talking again. Since Haruhi and Tomoyo were naturally reticent people, neither of them talked until they reached the ladies room.
They freshened up in front of the mirror and admired themselves in the low light. After a while, Haruhi turned to Tomoyo with a small smile. The dark-haired heiress smiled back. "Were you in the Host Club too?" she asked innocently.
"I was. It's supposed to be a club for guys but because of an accident that involved a very expensive vase, I got inducted." Haruhi shrugged elegantly. Her new friend laughed uproariously. "Everyone always wants to know that part. I broke the vase. Then I worked with them until we all graduate from Ouran High School."
"It must have been fun," Tomoyo said slyly. "I loved making cosplay costumes for my friends. It would have been amazing to see them cosplay all the time."
"It was," nodded Haruhi. "They got used to me as a guy. But then I ended up marrying Tamaki because we became more aware of our feelings."
The dark-haired Daidouji grinned like a Cheshire cat. "You suit each other."
Haruhi's eyes softened. She turned to Tomoyo and asked frankly, "do you have any feelings for Kyouya-senpai?"
Tomoyo was taken off-guard by her bluntess. But she recovered immediately with a graceful smile. "I find him attractive."
"Kyouya-senpai is not an easy man to understand. Many girls give up on him easily after the first impression," the dark-haired lawyer said very carefully. She remembered the time that they met up accidentally at a trade fair and how he brushed off all of the female attention that was not important to him. "It will take a lot of skill to keep up with him. He doesn't like comparisons either. Be careful about that."
Blue-violet eyes stared at her coldly.
"Thank you for the advice," said Tomoyo. She reapplied a flattering pink lipstick on her lips. Turning towards the lawyer with a rather cool smile, she nodded. "I think I know how to handle this."
She left the washroom.
Haruhi went forward and reapplied her favorite nude lipstick. She stared at her own tired hazel eyes and ordinary features. Although she worked in the toughest profession, she was still blown away by a simple change of attitude. Tomoyo was born rich and beautiful. She could get away with anything.
There was no reason for her to meddle. She shouldn't have said anything. It was none of her business. Whatever Kyouya and Tomoyo did was none of her business either.
So why was she so concerned?
It was useless to get involved.
-0-0-0-
When Tomoyo arrived at the table without Haruhi, Kyouya instinctively knew that something was up. Her posture was rigid and her smiles were forced. Then there was the dark look that passed over her eyes when Haruhi joined them.
"I'm sorry but we should excuse ourselves," Kyouya said suddenly. He exchanged looks with Tamaki. The blond king knew that something had happened and did not comment. "We're actually going for coffee after this. I hope you don't mind."
"No, you should go." Hikaru said immediately. He winked flirtatiously at Tomoyo. "You should get to know each other more."
"You're really tactful," Kaoru retorted, chuckling.
"It was nice to see you, Daidouji-san," Honey smiled sunnily. "I would send your regards to Akako."
"Ah. Take care." Mori nodded. It was the first time that he actually said anything towards their guest.
Tamaki got up and clapped Kyouya's shoulder. A look passed between them. He turned to Tomoyo before he gave her his warmest smile. "Please take care."
"It was a very nice evening. Thank you very much." Tomoyo bowed before they left.
Kyouya tucked her hand into his arm and led her away into the warm evening. Bon Sejour was located in one of the high-end streets and when they took a short turn, they were in the middle of the busy shopping district of the city. Yet the street that they were standing on was empty. They looked at each other questioningly.
"Shall we go out for coffee now?" Tomoyo asked playfully. She felt calmer now in the open air. He stared hard at her. She had the feeling that he saw through her facade.
"What did you want to ask me?" he returned the question.
Her sad violet-blue eyes returned his gaze. When she answered, her voice was low and sad. It was as if her heart was breaking with every word. She looked up at him, searching his stormy eyes. "Can you do me a favor, Ohtori-kun?"
"I'll do anything," he replied, voice husky.
"Come with me to a wedding," Tomoyo's voice broke at the last word. "Come with me to England and help me."
Kyouya did not think or plan. He stepped forward and embraced her. She sank into his embrace and wrapped slender arms around his middle. Warm tears started to wet the front of his shirt. His arms hugged her tighter; his face was buried on the top of her head. The smell of lilies permeated his senses. She was so small and fragile in his arms.
"I'll go with you," he promised.
-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-
-0-0-0-
"Hello, Ohtori-kun? Can we meet up tonight? I have something to tell you."
Speak of the devil, Kyouya nearly laughed. It was the woman of the hour.
Tomoyo Daidouji.
His heart resumed beating normally. The dark-haired businessman turned his back from the door to look at the fantastic view of the city below him. It was the top floor and to them, it was already the top of the world. Everyone in their right minds would covet what they all had. They were young, rich, successful and busy. Why did he feel so alone?
If she was there then he didn't feel it so much. Upon hearing her voice, he forced himself to calm down. She must admire his coolness and efficiency. There was no need to be excited. All of the girls he knew fell over their feet when he applied his natural technique.
"Daidouji-san, I was just about to ask you as well," Kyouya said softly. Her chuckle made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. Such a devilish woman, he thought involuntarily. "To what do I owe this honor?"
The dark-haired man's eyes landed on the pile of paperwork in front of his desk. He was simply too busy to dilly-dally with anything but he ignored it. There was time if one knew how to use it. He knew that the best of all.
"I miss you," her voice said gently.
Kyouya was taken off-guard. He didn't think that it would take her such a short time to say such intimate words to him. Perhaps there was progress after all. He would be more surprised if she hadn't fallen for any of his charms yet. (Tamaki would be heartbroken. He had trained them all to be first-class hosts.) What he didn't expect was the frankness in her voice as well as something sweet and indefinable that lingered in her words. Breathing deeply, he decided that now was the best time for a bold action.
"I feel the same," Kyouya confessed very softly. He was trembling all over because he'd never been so honest or so vulnerable. Nobody had ever heard him say anything that was as raw or as emotional. Daidouji should be flattered. She should be speechless and then nervous. Then he would soothe her and everything will be according to his plans…
He heard giggles instead. Tomoyo had a very lovely laugh like tinkling silver bells. It made his heart race and his face flush. He could listen to her laugh all day. Or he would do anything to keep her laughing. It was her laughter that made him want to be near her. The dark-haired man was more aware of the dark fleeting looks in her eyes and the stillness that gripped her body than she knew. If she possessed such a large amount of feminine charm in just her voice then it was futile to enumerate her other qualities. He was seduced before he even knew it.
Mentally shaking himself like a dog ridding himself of water, he resumed a businesslike tone. "Will you go to dinner with me? You were very kind to introduce your friends to me last time we met. My friends were delighted with you and would like to repay the favor as well."
Tomoyo's answer was quick and eager. "Oh, are they? I would be happy to oblige them."
"Shall I pick you up at seven at your penthouse?" Kyouya asked, as formal and practical as ever. He felt excited at the prospect of seeing her again. "You don't have to dress up either. They're firm believers of casual elegance."
"I'm at the office," she corrected sweetly. "You could say shabby chic, you know. I've had meetings all day so I don't have any time to change. Will that be okay?"
"Of course," he nodded. "That's all right. I will see you then."
"See you later," Tomoyo said cheerfully. To his immense surprise, she made a kissing sound on the receiver before she hung up.
Kyouya replaced his mobile phone on top of his desk. Smiling, he resumed his paperwork.
-0-0-0-
At lunchtime, Kyouya's work was interrupted again by his nervous secretary. Masking his irritation, he adjusted his glasses as he looked at her. Mikuru was a shy thing but she was very good at accounting and lots of other useful little things that made his life easier. Of course he knew about her not-so-subtle crush on him but he never encouraged it. She should know her place. His secretary visibly swallowed when she saw his obvious displeasure.
"What is it this time?" He asked frostily.
"T-There is someone here to see you, Ohtori-sama," Mikuru choked out. She was trembling already. Good God, these women, he thought sourly. They didn't have any ounce of bravery like Haruhi.
"Who dares to interrupt my work on a Monday?" Kyouya asked calmly. He hated it when people approached him on the first day of the week. It threw his whole week off-schedule. It was also inconvenient for him to accommodate someone without an appointment. He looked at Mikuru coldly. "I thought I instructed you to turn anyone away when I am very busy."
"Are you too busy to have lunch with your father?"
Kyouya's insides froze. He slowly looked to his left to see the Ohtori patriarch enter the room confidently. Masking his annoyance, he opted for a bland smile as he stood up to receive him. The latter's father nodded to the fidgeting young woman and she scurried out of the door.
"No, I'm not." He said coolly. "What brings you here, Father?"
"I'm just checking on you," his father replied in the same cold tone. He adjusted his glasses as he surveyed the room while his son who had managed their corporation for some years struggled to hide his irritation. His youngest son was the most talented yet he was also the most unreadable. Perhaps it was a requirement for success.
"The company is very successful," Kyouya remarked, breathing more deeply. He wasn't about to break his cover in front of his father. He had perfected his mask. Nobody, not even his father, would know that there was one. "I hope that you're proud that you have named me as your successor."
His father did not say anything. Cool blue eyes scanned his son's face for a moment before he smirked. Yoshio Ohtori was not known for being affectionate or caring towards his family because he had been raised to value family honor and business ethics more. He knew that it was his greatest mistake but what's done was done.
"I have yet to see anything," Yoshio retorted slowly. He was getting old, he knew. His sons had grown up and taken over. He was slowly giving up his control over their assets for them. A man had to prepare for his retirement. "Don't disappoint me, Kyouya-san."
Kyouya wished that he didn't hate his old man so much. If Yoshio was kinder, more caring or more open to them then he would have given anything for his father's approval. He had known since he was a child that his father didn't see them as children but as pawns for his power. So he had sought ways to be better, stronger and more cunning than his older brothers to force him to acknowledge their existence.
He dared not to believe that his father was expecting greater things from him. It whetted his appetite more. Nodding slowly, he watched his father walk towards the door before turning to him. "We shall have lunch together. Set aside your work. We have important business to discuss."
Since he couldn't refuse a direct order from the man who built the company from scratch, he turned off his laptop computer and shoved it inside his briefcase. He picked it up as well as his mobile phone. Throwing one last glance at the pile of unfinished work, he followed him out of the room.
Yoshio decided to dine at a first-class Italian restaurant in the business district. Neither of them spoke on the short drive. They were both powerful, willful men. The father was as cold as ice; his son was as firm as stone. They did not know how to handle their relationship beyond what they already knew.
The Ohtori family was a long and noble lineage that claimed connections to the royal family. They had successfully tied the medical world together through their sheer determination and persistence. They were known as the clan of dark kings and shadow courts because they had shown an amazing aptitude of handling the darker side of business. Nobody could expect to outwit them. Nobody could surpass them. Everybody avoided making enemies with the Ohtori.
Kyouya knew the exact measure of his family's wealth and influence. He did not shy away from it. He thrived in it. He was not afraid of making harsh decisions or taking risks. The turbulence, struggles and challenges that was his natural turf had made him into a formidable man. His father ended up respecting his efforts. As soon as he graduated from university with the highest honors he was named as the next successor. The taste of success was still the best. He'd never allow himself to forget that. It was the closest thing to an acknowledgement from his father so he was not about to let him down.
After they had eaten their lunch in complete silence, Kyouya was quite surprised when his father suddenly spoke up.
"You're twenty-eight. Am I correct, Kyouya-san?" Yoshio said slowly. He watched his son give him a calculating stare before answering yes. "I believe that it's about time for you to settle down. How is your suit with Daidouji-sama's heiress doing?"
"It's going smoothly," his son answered.
His father actually smiled. "I heard about the generous amount that you donated to her pet orphanage."
Kyouya hid his shock. His father always knew everything after all. "Yes. It was necessary."
"I heard that your friends were also involved. It was good press for all of you," continued the Ohtori patriarch. "Did she fall for it?"
"I should think so," said his son.
Yoshio stared at him carefully. He had always believed that his children had grown up into fine people. They were raised strictly into following the rules. His reward for their obedience and filial piety were good marriages that would secure their futures forever.
Arranged marriages in the upper class weren't uncommon. There were still old families that believed in such strict rules because it was their way. There was no sense in turning their back on their pasts. Besides it always worked out for everyone's best interests. He had done well with his three older children. He would not fail with his last unmarried son.
Taking a slow but sure route would definitely work. Kyouya was still young and desirable to the marriage market. He had come into marriageable age. From what he had exhibited in the past few years, he believed that he was ready for the next big step of his life. Even if he did not want to, there were ways to persuade him.
Yoshio took a sip of the vintage wine that they ordered and nodded approvingly. It was very fine indeed. He looked at his son and cleared his throat. "Daidouji-san's daughter is very pretty. She reminds me of her mother's cousin, Nadeshiko-san, very much."
His son nodded in agreement.
"It would surprise you but I was briefly considered as a good match for Daidouji Sonomi-san. Of course, she used to be known as Amamiya-san before her marriage. We used to be friends until your grandparents stepped in. She rejected our suit and we've never spoken since." Yoshio's voice became soft and sad. His son stared at his father with mounting surprise. "I've always thought that she was a fine woman who had a strong mind. It would please me if we could become family through you."
Kyouya's eyes widened as the truth sank in. His father was actually fond of someone else. He was also a human who had emotions and regrets. It was slightly disturbing to him. He was so used to his father's cold indifference that he had never considered befriending his father. He had only concentrated on winning his acknowledgment but not his affection.
Yoshio noticed his son's shocked face. He smiled in spite of himself. Perhaps he was getting old and soft inside. His old friend, Yuzuru Suoh, would have fits over this. "I believe that you and Daidouji-san's daughter fit each other. Why don't you consider proposing to her as soon as possible?"
The dark-haired king felt his cheeks heat up. He had never shown emotions to his father so he was quite embarrassed. His father approved of Tomoyo. He could not believe his ears. His father wanted him to marry Tomoyo...
"I will." Kyouya said seriously. "I will marry her."
His father looked surprised at his determination but recovered swiftly. Practical as always, he added, "It will be beneficial to our family. She's got good pedigree, riches and plenty of connections. I should think that she is more than qualified to join us."
She is also kind and sweet, Kyouya thought quickly. She is very devoted to the people she loves. She will not be happy with a business arrangement. She will rather have love. How very like Haruhi. Pushing the thought away from his mind required some effort. He gave his father a very confident smile. "I believe so. Do I have your blessing?"
He's been thinking about it for a while, Yoshio thought with satisfaction. My son is ready for this. "You know that you do."
Kyouya's mind raced. He was planning.
There was no time to lose.
-0-0-0-
"Hikaru. Kaoru. I have something for you to do."
"I know, Honey-san. Can you please put my order on your first priority? This is an emergency."
"Mori-san, can you please make sure that Honey-san doesn't get distracted? I thank you for the intelligence report, by the way."
"Tamaki, where have you been all afternoon? You should have taken over the paperwork instead of staying in the marketing department. If you don't get your ass to work soon, I will tell your wife about that marketing executive! By the way...This is killing me but I need some help. I-I'm proposing."
"Hello, Haruhi? What do you think about Daidouji-san?"
She's a nice girl. You suit each other very well.
"Thank you." That's just like you. You don't notice my nervousness in hearing your voice. You don't see how much you can destroy me with your blunt honesty."We'll see each other tonight."
There was one last phone call to make.
"Hello, Daidouji-san. Will it be okay if we meet at the restaurant instead? I'm sending the driver over to pick you up."
-0-0-0-
The Host Club was early. They waited for their shadow king at Bon Sejour (Pleasant Journey as Tamaki had helpfully translated to their amused exasperation on their first visit), their favorite French restaurant. They had the best table as well as the best service. All of the female patrons threw covetous looks every now and then towards their direction while all of the males ignored them as much as they could.
They were seated as followed: Tamaki and Haruhi at the head, the twins at the left, the cousins on the right.
Tamaki looked at his friends and sighed. "Why are you all here? I thought it was just dinner for four."
"Don't be so possessive, Tono*," the twins chorused. "You're not the only one he called."
"That is true," Haruhi agreed. "Kyouya wanted all of us to be here. I think he needs us more than ever."
Honey took a bite out of his chocolate cake. He never grew out of his love for sweets. Nodding with appreciation, he said, "Kyou-chan must be planning something wonderful."
"I should hope so," Hikaru said grumpily. "I had to extract myself from my creative mood."
"Yes, he was." Kaoru piped up. He threw a flirty wink at a pretty strawberry blonde on the other table. Turning his gaze to his friends, he smiled because they had all grown up somehow. "It's not a big deal though. How is Akako-san and Akihiko-chan, Honey-senpai?"
Honey grinned at the mention of his wife and son. They had married when they were both twenty-four but it still felt like yesterday. His friends were all fond of her as she was of them. But she always declined the opportunity to sit in on their weekly Host Club meetings. "They are doing great, thank you."
"I wonder what Kyouya is up to," Tamaki mused although he already had inkling on what it was.
Haruhi squeezed his hand. She smiled up at him. He couldn't help but smile back. "He'll be fine."
They went silent when Kyouya arrived. He was dressed in a charcoal gray suit with a blue tie. As always, he looked respectable and refined. He smiled coolly at his friends before he sat down. Everyone couldn't help but grin back.
"I'm sorry if I called all of you suddenly," Kyouya started. His voice was low and soft. "I would require some help from all of you. I've always been grateful for whatever help that you have extended on my courtship of Daidouji-san but I have to ask for more. It is not known to many but my family is angling into a marriage alliance with Daidouji-san."
They all breathed a sigh of relief. Of all the women that Kyouya had courted, she was the best of them all. Unknown to the shadow king but it was only Tomoyo who had ever made him smile without calculation. That was a very great thing.
"So that is what it's about," Kaoru said, nodding vigorously. "Do you need any ideas?"
"Of course I do," said the dark-haired king. "I need all of your help. When I make my proposal, I want to ask for your help to pull out all of the stops. We must sweep her off her feet. Since the Host Club is famous for its excessive and debauched practices, I think I approached the right group."
All of them laughed.
Kyouya adjusted his glasses. "When she comes in for our dinner, I would appreciate if you would keep quiet. You all have loud mouths but you have to keep them shut. Understood?"
All of them nodded, slightly scared. Kyouya was very scary when he was serious.
"She's very pretty," Hikaru ventured. "Her talent in fashion is a credit to her."
Honey laughed as he waved his fork. "She bakes sweet things according to Akako."
"Her heart is in the right place," Kaoru said enthusiastically. "She's done some really nice things for the orphanage. I believe that you met her at the benefit party that she organized to raise funds for it."
"She looks practical and down-to-earth," Haruhi added.
Tamaki sparkled at her remark. Turning flaming violet eyes to her, he began another long and grandiose speech that made all of them roll around with laughter. (She had rolled her eyes at her husband and deadpanned every single point.)
Kyouya listened to his friend's comments carefully. They were all very supportive of him. Even though he was raised to trust no one but himself, he could not help but trust them. His mobile phone vibrated on his pocket. His heart leaped. She was here.
The Host Club went quiet for the second time that evening when she arrived.
All of them turned towards their right as an awestruck waiter led the Daidouji heiress to them. She took their breath away in her charcoal gray sheath dress, pearl necklace and suede gray pumps. Long, candle-shaped fingers clutched the handle of an expensive Birkin bag. Her long dark hair was pulled back by a tortoiseshell barrette but soft tendrils framed her face. Her makeup was perfectly applied; her smile was blinding.
"Here you go, ma'am." The waiter said in a low voice. Kyouya noticed with some irritation that he was staring at her too much. Unable to help himself, he got up and pulled out a chair for her before he could do it. With a discreet nod to dismiss him, the waiter slunk away.
"Good evening," Tomoyo greeted shyly. She realized that she was seated next to Kyouya at the other end of the table. All of them looked eager to see her. "I hope I'm not yet late."
"You're just in time!" Tamaki said brightly. His violet eyes were twinkling. It was not lost on them that Kyouya and Tomoyo were dressed in the same color. They looked good together. "Shall we order?"
As the others became busy telling the waiter about their orders, Tomoyo leaned slightly towards Kyouya. Her voice was soft and seductive. "You look nice tonight."
"So do you," he replied, smirking. "Was it a long day?"
"Very long," Tomoyo sighed slightly. Sensing his concern, she gave him another bright smile. "I'm fine, Ohtori-san. What do you recommend from the menu?"
Kyouya noted her evasive attitude before answering her question. After they ordered, they joined in the bright and sparkling conversation of their friends. Everyone was in an easygoing and cheerful mood. Even when the food arrived, they still continued their friendly banter.
"So, you are the famous Ouran High School Host Club." Tomoyo said, laughing. She looked at the handsome young men around her before nodding approvingly. They were all well-bred, handsome and charming. "You must have broken a lot of hearts."
"Only Kyouya breaks hearts," Hikaru teased.
Tomoyo threw him an inquisitive glance that the dark king avoided. Her eyes were laughing at him.
"We were very kind to the ladies," Tamaki proclaimed grandly. "We were their noble, selfless servants. We serve the young women who also had time and money just like us."
She giggled as she noticed Kyouya's eye twitch. "Why did you found the Host Club anyway?"
"It was because I wanted some friends. Kyouya agreed to go along with me because he also needed some friends," Tamaki smiled impishly. He looked adorable. "We meticulously chose our members for their qualities."
"That was very wise," Tomoyo agreed. She stared at them carefully before she said, "You all fit the type."
To their surprise, she pointed out who owned the Price Type, the Little Devil Type, and the Stoic Type, the Loli-Shota type as well as the Natural Type. ("You must have been quite a sight when you cosplay.") Her enthusiasm was were all laughing by the end of her short speech. They've never seen an outsider who was so knowledgeable about their chosen genre. She was so fascinating because she was not as obsessive as Renge was.
"What about Kyouya-senpai?" Hikaru asked a mischievous glint in his eyes. "What do you think about him?"
"He's a Cool type, that's for sure." Tomoyo looked at him thoughtfully. "He's the dark side of the Prince. I have the feeling that all of the girls wanted to change him. Or they pined for him because he was unattainable."
"Very good," laughed Tamaki. She hit him right on target. "You seem to know Kyouya so well."
Her eyes hardened like gemstones. "I knew someone like him," she said shortly.
Kyouya's eyebrow rose. That did not sound very good to him. He would not accept any comparison to her previous boyfriend, especially if the said previous boyfriend treated her so badly.
"Excuse me," Haruhi broke the silence. She looked very calm and composed. "I have to go to the ladies' room."
"I'll go with you," Tomoyo said hastily. They got up from the table and left them talking again. Since Haruhi and Tomoyo were naturally reticent people, neither of them talked until they reached the ladies room.
They freshened up in front of the mirror and admired themselves in the low light. After a while, Haruhi turned to Tomoyo with a small smile. The dark-haired heiress smiled back. "Were you in the Host Club too?" she asked innocently.
"I was. It's supposed to be a club for guys but because of an accident that involved a very expensive vase, I got inducted." Haruhi shrugged elegantly. Her new friend laughed uproariously. "Everyone always wants to know that part. I broke the vase. Then I worked with them until we all graduate from Ouran High School."
"It must have been fun," Tomoyo said slyly. "I loved making cosplay costumes for my friends. It would have been amazing to see them cosplay all the time."
"It was," nodded Haruhi. "They got used to me as a guy. But then I ended up marrying Tamaki because we became more aware of our feelings."
The dark-haired Daidouji grinned like a Cheshire cat. "You suit each other."
Haruhi's eyes softened. She turned to Tomoyo and asked frankly, "do you have any feelings for Kyouya-senpai?"
Tomoyo was taken off-guard by her bluntess. But she recovered immediately with a graceful smile. "I find him attractive."
"Kyouya-senpai is not an easy man to understand. Many girls give up on him easily after the first impression," the dark-haired lawyer said very carefully. She remembered the time that they met up accidentally at a trade fair and how he brushed off all of the female attention that was not important to him. "It will take a lot of skill to keep up with him. He doesn't like comparisons either. Be careful about that."
Blue-violet eyes stared at her coldly.
"Thank you for the advice," said Tomoyo. She reapplied a flattering pink lipstick on her lips. Turning towards the lawyer with a rather cool smile, she nodded. "I think I know how to handle this."
She left the washroom.
Haruhi went forward and reapplied her favorite nude lipstick. She stared at her own tired hazel eyes and ordinary features. Although she worked in the toughest profession, she was still blown away by a simple change of attitude. Tomoyo was born rich and beautiful. She could get away with anything.
There was no reason for her to meddle. She shouldn't have said anything. It was none of her business. Whatever Kyouya and Tomoyo did was none of her business either.
So why was she so concerned?
It was useless to get involved.
-0-0-0-
When Tomoyo arrived at the table without Haruhi, Kyouya instinctively knew that something was up. Her posture was rigid and her smiles were forced. Then there was the dark look that passed over her eyes when Haruhi joined them.
"I'm sorry but we should excuse ourselves," Kyouya said suddenly. He exchanged looks with Tamaki. The blond king knew that something had happened and did not comment. "We're actually going for coffee after this. I hope you don't mind."
"No, you should go." Hikaru said immediately. He winked flirtatiously at Tomoyo. "You should get to know each other more."
"You're really tactful," Kaoru retorted, chuckling.
"It was nice to see you, Daidouji-san," Honey smiled sunnily. "I would send your regards to Akako."
"Ah. Take care." Mori nodded. It was the first time that he actually said anything towards their guest.
Tamaki got up and clapped Kyouya's shoulder. A look passed between them. He turned to Tomoyo before he gave her his warmest smile. "Please take care."
"It was a very nice evening. Thank you very much." Tomoyo bowed before they left.
Kyouya tucked her hand into his arm and led her away into the warm evening. Bon Sejour was located in one of the high-end streets and when they took a short turn, they were in the middle of the busy shopping district of the city. Yet the street that they were standing on was empty. They looked at each other questioningly.
"Shall we go out for coffee now?" Tomoyo asked playfully. She felt calmer now in the open air. He stared hard at her. She had the feeling that he saw through her facade.
"What did you want to ask me?" he returned the question.
Her sad violet-blue eyes returned his gaze. When she answered, her voice was low and sad. It was as if her heart was breaking with every word. She looked up at him, searching his stormy eyes. "Can you do me a favor, Ohtori-kun?"
"I'll do anything," he replied, voice husky.
"Come with me to a wedding," Tomoyo's voice broke at the last word. "Come with me to England and help me."
Kyouya did not think or plan. He stepped forward and embraced her. She sank into his embrace and wrapped slender arms around his middle. Warm tears started to wet the front of his shirt. His arms hugged her tighter; his face was buried on the top of her head. The smell of lilies permeated his senses. She was so small and fragile in his arms.
"I'll go with you," he promised.
-0-0-0-
To be continued!