GASP, A STORY THAT IS NOT XXXHOLIC? WUT WUT? Well, to be honest, with the recent chapters for the series, it brought my enthusiasm for the pairing pretty low. I still love them, I really do, but the crazy yelling, the missions that they go through, I miss all that. So, it's kinda hard to be inspired when those things aren't even in there anymore. So, lately, I've been into Ouran. No idea why. Maybe it was the sudden urge to watch all the episodes that have been on my computer for years. Maybe it was my love for KyouHaru that I decided "what the hell" and go along with it. Either way, this had come along, and I've been working on this story for...months. Many, many months. Also, I'd like to say that this was supposed to be a oneshot, but considering that the document was 90 pages long, I knew that uploading it up at once was not gonna happen. So, I cut this baby up into 3 chapters. I've been editing this thing so many times, but somehow, I always end up missing something, so...if there's anything wrong, just...ignore it. I don't want to edit anymore. So...anyway, enjoy! R&R~

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Mr. Ootori took a sip from his tea as he stared at the newspaper in front of him. He really wasn't paying that much attention to it as his mind was occupied with more important matters. He looked up from the newspaper, and looked at his youngest son. Ever since the Student Festival a couple years back, he had tried very hard not to underestimate his son ever again. Once the boy bought the Ootori Company, he just threw it back at him, just like that.

K.O.

Kyouya Ootori.

Such a talented child, and he never had the chance to see his full potential. Nor, had he expected it. But now, as he looked at his son, he saw a man that can hold on his own. He could make his own company, or he could buy the company over and over again.

He smiled. For some reason, he didn't mind that. As long as it was Kyouya, he didn't care.

Mr. Ootori looked at the newspaper, his eye catching the picture in the second page. Ouran's goodbye to the new graduates. He noticed the picture of a girl, her perfectly straight, shoulder-length hair blowing in the wind as she smiled sheepishly at the twins. She was still wearing a man's uniform, even when everyone in school already found out about her gender long ago. Probably out of habit.

Fujioka Haruhi. The special student. There was something about her that caught his attention. Maybe it was her courageousness as she stood up to him. Or maybe her studious manner. While those were admirable, maybe those were not the traits that caught his attention.

It was her potential to do great things. She would definitely go far in the world. From the information he was given, it was said that she was going into a really good college. With her kind of grades, she was able to pick any university she wanted to go to.

Such potential…

That kind of potential is perfect for Kyouya. He had declared to Tamaki's father that she would be a perfect wife in the future. Even now, he still thought it would be a great idea. Perhaps, maybe it was time he let Kyouya in that little secret. Well…it would be best not to be so blunt about it. Hiding his intentions for a while would be the best approach. He looked up at Kyouya, and smiled.

"Kyouya."

"Yes, Father?"

"Fujioka Haruhi. It says here that she'll be graduating this coming Sunday. Are you, by any chance going to attend the ceremony?"

"Well," he chuckled, "knowing Tamaki, he would want everyone there. So, I'm very positive that I'll go."

"Hmm. That's good, then," he inwardly smiled, "I was hoping to give her a graduation present, but I don't have the time. Sadly, I have a meeting to go to. I do hope that you would give it to her in my place."

"Not a problem. I'll make sure that she will get it."

"Very good. Make sure you're both alone when you give it to her. I don't want people to know about this."

Kyouya was confused, but he nodded in respect. Kyouya got up from his seat, and headed towards the door.

"I'll be out for a while."

Mr. Ootori nodded, humming in acknowledgement.

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"CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES! I HOPE THINGS WILL WORK OUT FOR THE FUTURE!"

Everything was, as always, grand. With an orchestra, two elephants, twelve horse carriages, twenty limos, and much more. It didn't surprise Haruhi, but it always took her breath away by how extreme everything was. Everyone clapped their hands, exchanging hugs, promising that they would keep in touch. Haruhi smiled. Knowing Tamaki and the others, it most definitely won't be hard to keep in touch.

"Congratulations, Haruhi!"

After being hugged by all her friends, especially Tamaki, they all decided to go out and celebrate. To Haruhi's dismay, they took her to the most fanciest restaurant in town, and as promised, she wore a nice dress for the occasion. It was a simple, blue dress, which she appreciated. She was hesitant ordering from the menu, but she was reassured that it was taken care of.

Of course…

Those rich bastards.

As she finished ordering. Kyouya tapped her shoulder.

"May I speak with you in private?"

"Oh…ok."

They both got up, excusing themselves, and went to the little alcove near the entrance.

"My father wanted to attend but he had some business to deal with. However, he wanted me to give this to you."

Kyouya gave her a letter. She looked at the envelope quizzically before opening it. She noticed the note first.

"I hope this will help you with your studies. If you need any help, you can rely on the Ootori family."

She looked at the second piece of paper. Haruhi grabbed Kyouya's arm, steadying herself. There were so many zeros.

"K-Kyouya…this…this…"

He took a peak at the paper.

"A check? Well…my father is being very generous."

"This…this is too much! I…"

"It's a graduation present. Besides, it'll help with the books. They don't come cheap."

"Wow…I…don't know what to say…"

Kyouya shrugged wearily.

"A 'thank you' would be nice."

Haruhi chuckled. She was in the happiest of moods, and very relieved.

"Well…give your father my thanks."

Kyouya looked away, nodding. He was about to turn around, but he didn't expect small, slender arms to wrap around his waist. Her head perfectly placed right at his chest. .

"Thank you."

He didn't exactly know how to respond, so he patted her back. As she let go, she smiled at him, and walked back to the group. Kyouya stood there for a minute, still taken aback by her sudden hug. It was definitely a strange moment, but he shrugged, not even bothering to think about it any longer. He stood straight up, composing himself before he walked back to the group.

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"So…I'm sure she likes the gift that I gave her."

"She was definitely speechless."

Kyouya and Mr. Ootori were in the living room, their tea being served by their maid. Mr. Ootori looked up, finally noticing the stare the Kyouya was giving him.

"Is something wrong?"

"No…I'm just curious. You don't know Haruhi that well, and yet…"

"Can a man give a gift?"

"Not unless there was a motive."

Mr. Ootori chuckled. Ever since Ouran's school festival a few years back, Kyouya had started to speak his mind just a bit more. In fact, they were talking more like "father and son," instead of "boss and employee."

"It's just a graduation send-off."

They sat in silence. The room became tense. Kyouya finally spoke.

"Why are you so interested in her?"

Mr. Ootori sighed, finally giving in.

"She has a lot of potential. She may be just a commoner, but she will definitely go far. I just want you to be in good terms with her."

"We've been in good terms since the beginning. We're really good friends."

"Kyouya…sometimes, friends grow apart. I'm just trying not to let that happen."

"No offense, but I believe that would be my job to not let that happen."

Kyouya grabbed his tea, slowly taking a sip.

"What is your real reason, Father?"

Mr. Ootori put his tea down, and stared at his son. He knew he had to tell his son, sooner or later. However, he was hoping later.

"Kyouya…I was hoping that…maybe…"

He looked at his father quizzically, his eyebrow raised high. He had never seen his father so uncomfortable before. He was always straightforward, but careful with his words. To see him like this was foreign to him.

"These past couple years, I was hoping that maybe…you could marry Haruhi."

Kyouya sprayed his tea all over the table. He grabbed a napkin to wipe his chin. His eyes were the size of the saucers in front of him.

"W-What?"

"She just seems like a good match."

He didn't know how to respond to it. Him marrying Haruhi? It was just crazy! He just…he didn't see that at all.

"I'm only thinking about your future. Think about it."

Mr. Ootori got up, and walked away, leaving Kyouya to his thoughts.

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Haruhi's cell phone rang as she managed to put the last clip in her hair. She walked across the room and found her phone. She sat down, wiping her hands on her blue skinny jeans. When she looked at the caller I.D., she was taken aback. Fisting her pink sundress, she cautiously answered.

"Kyouya?"

"Good afternoon."

"Is…is something wrong?"

"Wrong? No."

"Well…it's just that…I usually get calls from Kaoru or Hikaru. Hell, even Honey-senpai. But…you don't usually call. Am…I in trouble or something?"

"Can a friend just call up and say hi?"

There was a pause, then a small chuckle.

"I'm sorry…good afternoon."

"Actually…there is something. Nothing bad, no worries. Are you free at the moment?"

"Yes…?"

"I know this is sudden, but I was hoping that you'd stop by my place."

Haruhi raised an eyebrow.

"For what reason?"

Kyouya paused, a small sigh could be heard.

"My father wanted to speak to you in person. He sent me here to pick you up. He has already set up everything today."

"Oh."

"Is that a problem?"

"Ah, no! No problem at all. Does your father like me or something? He just gave me a check that would cover about eight years of college tuition."

Kyouya wanted to chuckle.

"He wants to get to know you. That way, in the near future, when you become successful, you will be a strong ally."

"Hmm…I see. That's…"

"Harsh?"

"No, actually, I find it flattering. I'm not even famous, and he thinks very highly of me."

"Hmm, I see…"

There was a large pause on both sides.

"So…are you going to stop by?"

"Oh! Yes, I will. But, uh…there's a small problem. I don't know where you live. I've never been there before."

"Taken care of. Step outside."

Haruhi held in a breath. He couldn't have sent someone out already. That would just be…! Well…on second thought, this was Kyouya. He was always at least five steps ahead. She opened her door, and noticed a black car outside the complex. She gaped as she noticed that the guard that was picking her up was not alone. Wearing his yellow, button-up shirt and blue jeans, he was not that hard to spot. Kyouya, with his phone still at his ear, smiled, his glasses glinting in the sunlight.

Haruhi couldn't help but sigh. Why did he show up? He could have just stayed at his place while his servants picked her up. However, she didn't bother asking. He was already in front of the apartment.

Still talking through the phone, she frowned.

"That was very risky of you, Kyouya. What would happen if I said that I was busy?"

She saw him smile.

"Well, I would have taken you by force."

She knew that he was trying to sound intimidating, but over the years, she could tell when he was being playful or not.

"Are you coming down?"

"Ah, yes, yes. Just a minute."

She went back inside and put her thin sweater on. She then grabbed her purse and left a note for her dad, just in case. When she opened the door again, Kyouya was right outside her door. She jumped, taken aback by his sudden presence. She frowned. He looked at her wearily, somewhat amused by her reaction.

He finally stopped growing, leaving him a great 6 feet, which is pretty damn tall for a Japanese man. Almost as tall as Mori, who was a few inches taller. Unlike Haruhi, who had stopped growing at an average 5'4". What the hell did those guys eat to get that tall?

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The ride back to Kyouya's place felt long. It was a thirty minute drive back to his place, but each minute felt like an hour. He was trying to get his father's words out of his mind. Haruhi as his wife? He…never thought of getting married before. He always thought that he was still young. He still had time. But now that it was mentioned…he didn't know how to handle it. He glanced at Haruhi, who was staring out the window. Her fingers were fisting her pink dress. Kyouya sighed.

"Nervous?"

Haruhi jumped from his voice. She looked up at him and smiled sheepishly, scratching a cheek with her index finger.

"Ah…just a bit."

"There's nothing to be nervous about. My father thinks highly of you as it is. You're practically family to him."

"Family? Why is that?"

Kyouya mentally kicked himself. He said too much.

"Once you become successful, being connected to the Ootori Company would mean being part of the family."

Nice save, Kyouya…nice save.

"However, if you were to double-cross us…let's just say that you would be taking a very long vacation."

Haruhi paled dramatically. She tried to cover it up by laughing, but that failed miserably.

"Okay…well, no pressure there."

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Haruhi walked into the garden, spotting the man that was Kyouya's father. He sat at the small, round coffee table, which were filled with coffee cups. His back was to Haruhi as he took a sip from his afternoon coffee.

"Father. Haruhi is here."

Mr. Ootori turned around, finally facing them. He didn't smile, nor did he nod in approval. He turned back around and took his sip from his coffee.

"Please, sit down."

He gestured at the chair next to him. Haruhi hesitated for a moment, then looked at Kyouya, who also gestured to the chair. She breathed in and sat down. Once she was settled, Kyouya began to walk away, but was stopped by his father.

"You don't need to leave, Kyouya. Come, sit with us."

Kyouya breathed out, and turned back around. He then took a seat across from Haruhi. It was quiet for a few minutes, until Mr. Ootori put his cup back down.

"So, Fujioka Haruhi…"

"Ah…yes?"

"I do apologize for not congratulating you in person. Business takes a lot of free time."

"Oh, no worries. I understand that you're a busy person. Taking care of your company is always a priority."

"Hmm. Very true. I'm glad you understand. However, my apology is not the reason you're here. I am planning on having a small gathering of high ranking affiliates that associate with the Ootori Company. Since I am hoping that you would also be connected with the Ootori Company in the future, I'd like you to be acquainted with them."

Haruhi paled, but smiled politely.

"Uh, sir…I just graduated from high school. I'm not that well-known. I haven't stepped into college yet, and you already think that I'm going to be very successful and rich in a matter of days. I…don't mean to be rude or anything but… you're thinking too highly of me before I even begun to be successful. I don't expect to be living in a world of luxury, or any of that kind of thing. I just want to do the best that I can."

Mr. Ootori closed his eyes, understanding Haruhi's words. As he took another sip from his coffee, he stared back at Haruhi.

"Fujioka-san, I know that you're going to do your best. That is why I believe, with your kind of drive, you will surely go farther than where you stand now. That is why I think highly of you. I'm not sure if you have noticed, but you are already well-known. A studious commoner such as yourself getting into Ouran High School is almost unheard of. Every year, you were at the top of your class. To top that, Ouran has given you a scholarship that allows you to go to whichever University you want without fail, which is the most honorable Ouran can get. Also, there was a picture of you in the public newspaper just a few weeks ago. Trust me; if I knew you weren't going to be successful, I wouldn't have bothered with you."

Haruhi frowned. She didn't know what to say in that situation. She looked at Kyouya, who pushed his glasses up.

"Ah…well…thank you?"

"Hmm. Now, about that gathering I mentioned. I'm sure you'll be there."

"Oh…well, I don't think I have a choice in that matter anymore."

"Since this is a formal gathering, I do expect you to wear something nice."

"I would, but I don't have any formal dresses at home. I had no need for them since I don't go out often."

"I see…well, I'll bring a fashion designer over here and fix that problem."

"Ah, okay then. That would-"

Haruhi stopped, noticing Mr. Ootori reach into his jacket pocket and pull out a cell phone. He dialed a number and waited.

"Ah, hello. I'd like a fashion designer come down to the Ootori residence."

Haruhi stammered. "W-What the-? Now? Buh…I…ah…" She looked at Kyouya, who was grinning the entire time.

Like father, like son…

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It was the day of the party, and Haruhi was growing nervous by the minute. She straightened out her dress as she looked in the mirror. Her crème colored dress flowed to her knees. The cherry blossom embroidery design began at the top, scattering and separating as it ended at the bottom. It was tight at the waist, showing every inch of her curves. It was also tight at her chest, her breast more defined than usual. The back dipped low to her lower back; it made her wonder if it was appropriate to wear something like that in front of respectable people. However, according to the designer, she had "designed dresses more revealing, it made everyone in the room blush." It was a bit comforting, but she still felt exposed.

Well…it really was beautiful. It also eased her mind that she didn't have to pay for it, as it was a gift from the designer.

"Haruhi. Are you done?"

She finally snapped into reality, finally hearing Kyouya's knocks at the door.

"Ah, yes. Come in!"

The door opened, finally revealing the man. As always, he had that black notebook that he always carried around. She suddenly recognized the suit he was wearing. It was the same one that he wore at the Ouran Host Club Dance Party a few years back. Why she suddenly remembered it was beyond her.

"The gathering is about to start. The guests have already-"

He stopped as he finally looked at her. His mind was wiped clean of any thought that he was about to say. His facial expression never changed. He just stood there, staring at her with a blank expression on his face, not knowing what to do or what to say.

"Kyouya? Is something wrong?" Haruhi suddenly pouted as she caressed the embroidery at her waist. "Ah, it's the dress, isn't it? I knew that this would be too risky to wear."

He finally snapped back to reality, trying very hard to form words.

"No, no. It's fine. I just…"

Haruhi tilted her head to the side, taken aback by Kyouya's reaction.

"You just…?"

"The designer did a wonderful job."

That almost took all his will power to say.

"Ah, yeah…she did. It's very beautiful. Oh," she looked up, "so, what about the guests?"

Bless you, Haruhi. Bless you. Kyouya was glad for the distraction and went back to Business Mode.

"The guests have arrived, and my father is waiting for your arrival."

"Oh! We better leave then."

He gestured towards the door, allowing Haruhi to go first. Suddenly, everything felt like it was in slow motion. Haruhi's hair danced as she moved, the whiff of her perfume wafting through his nose. Her crème dress was snug at her defined curves, her hips moving left and right as she took each step. The frills of her dress danced and caressed at her knees. She mumbled a "thank you" as she exited the door. Kyouya finally figured out why she was so popular in her middle school. He had a difficult time calming his nerves down.

He closed the door behind him. Once he was walking right behind her, he finally noticed how the back of the dress dipped low at her back, showing a lot of Haruhi's skin. He breathed in very quickly, suddenly tempted to touch her. Her skin looked soft, and probably smooth like Egyptian silk. Kyouya suddenly became jealous of the Lobelia girls when they touched and caressed her arm and leg…hmm, it must've been nice.

Wha…

What…?

What?

No!

NO!

What the hell was wrong with him?

When had he become such a pervert?

It was wrong! SO wrong!

"Um…Kyouya? Uh…I never bothered to ask, but what exactly is this party for? I mean, your father invited me, but I still don't know what it's about."

"It's for you."

Haruhi stopped suddenly, Kyouya almost crashing onto her. "What? Me?"

"My father set this up so that more people would know more about you. Kind of like…being accepted to a new family."

"Ah…I see. I don't know how I feel about that. Well, is there a way for me to act around these people? What do they usually talk about?"

"Haruhi. Don't worry about it."

Haruhi sighed. "I'm sorry…it's just…there's a huge difference between talking to middle-aged, rich people, and talking to high school girls during Host Club activities."

"Well, Haruhi. If you were a natural as a host, maybe you're a natural at talking to these so-called middle-aged, rich people."

Haruhi smiled, feeling relieved at his words. She started walking again, feeling a lot less stressed. However, when Kyouya was about to open the door that lead to the party, she suddenly placed her hand on his wrist. He stopped, but didn't let go of the handle.

"Ah…sorry."

Kyouya let go of the handle, and sighed.

"Ok…Haruhi. Close your eyes."

"What?"

"Just close them."

Haruhi frowned, but did what she was told.

"You know what I did when I went to my official gathering?"

Haruhi suddenly opened her eyes, but Kyouya place his hand over them, mumbling, "Keep your eyes shut." Haruhi did just that. Kyouya put his hand down, finally noticing the faintest pink tint in her cheeks. As rare as it was, he didn't even bother to question it.

"What I used to do when I was younger…I pretended that all of the people in the room were wearing their undergarments."

She stared at him, completely thrown off for that split second. Her laughter was unexpected. She was literally in tears. Kyouya wasn't trying to be funny. He was just telling the truth. However, the fact that she was cheering up was a plus.

"If I imagine an old man in his underwear, I swear, I'm blaming you."

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Just like Kyouya had said. She really had nothing to worry about. She was the life of the party. Everyone talked to her, wanting to know who the beautiful woman that walked through the door was. Every man in the room wanted to dance with her, so that they could have a chance to speak with her. Mr. Ootori stood by Kyouya, a small smirk in place.

"She's amazing, isn't she? She's already accepted. "

"I really wasn't worried. I knew she could pull through. Oh, and by the way, I'm guessing you had secretly told everyone that you're trying to have Haruhi as my wife, right?"

Mr. Ootori didn't say a word for a while.

"So…you found out."

"Really wasn't that much of a secret. I heard one of the guests whisper something along the lines of, 'Haruhi-chan is lucky to have Kyouya-kun.' It didn't take a brain surgeon to figure out what this party is really for."

Mr. Ootori ignored him as he noticed something interesting across the room.

"Well, isn't this a twist. Haruhi is actually by herself. Maybe I should ask her for a dance."

Kyouya put a hand on his father's shoulder, stopping him in place.

"I'll do it."

He quickly walked over to her, not even giving his father a reason as to why he stopped him from going to Haruhi. To tell the truth, Kyouya was just cautious at what his father would say to her.

"Enjoying yourself?"

Haruhi turned around when she heard the familiar voice. She smiled when she saw Kyouya, his champagne glass halfway done.

"Ah, yes. The people here are very nice. It's a bit strange, actually."

"Really? Why is that?"

"They're treating me like a queen, instead of a newcomer."

Kyouya raised an eyebrow. They were treating her like a new bride, more like. However, she didn't have to know that. He gulped down the rest of his drink, and carelessly placed it on a random table.

"Well, that is strange. But that doesn't matter at the moment. I do have one question to ask of you."

He stood in front of her, slightly bowing as his hand was outstretched. He looked up, his grin in place.

"Care to dance?"

Haruhi smiled, taking his hand.

"I don't see why not."

They walked together to the dance floor, trying to ignore the guests' eyes on them. They bowed, and then took a step closer as Kyouya led the dance. One hand was holding hers, while the other placed right at her lower bare back. Kyouya ignored the burning sensation on his palm, focusing only on the dance. Haruhi was glad that she took dancing lessons during her time at Ouran, or else she would have fumbled every step. In the viewer's eyes, they seemed to dance throughout the waltz like it was rehearsed. They were perfect, each move complimenting the other, balancing each other out. As the song ended, they once again, bowed to each other.

Suddenly, they heard claps. They looked up, noticing their surroundings. Everyone was at the sidelines, enjoying the show that they had performed. Haruhi turned lobster red, embarrassed that they were dancing alone on the dance floor the entire time. Not even bothering to talk, they just exited out of their spotlight, right to the group of people in the sidelines.

"Magnificent."

"Beautifully danced."

"That was just splendid…"

Haruhi answered their praise with a "thank you" as she walked by them. She was still embarrassed, and she had no other words for the audience. Kyouya led her to an empty sitting area. He stared at Haruhi, amused at the dark blush on her cheeks. He then looked up, noticing his dad walking toward them. He inwardly groaned, waiting for what trickery he had planned.

"What an interesting display. You dance wonderfully, Fujioka."

Haruhi smiled sheepishly. "Well, I learned during club activities."

He smiled, his eyes glinting in Kyouya's direction. "You must've had a good teacher, then."

"Yeah, she was."

Mr. Ootori stiffened, not expecting that answer. Kyouya couldn't help but grin. The look on his father's face was priceless. It was a rare sight to see, and he cherished every second of it.

"I see. Well, Fujioka. I was wondering, since it's already starting to get dark out, you might want to stay for the night."

"Oh…well, that's very nice of you, but my father might worry if-"

As if on cue, Haruhi's phone rang. She picked it up, and looked at the caller I.D. It was Tamaki. She sighed.

"Yes, Tamaki?"

"HARUHI! ARE YOU ALRIGHT? IS EVERYTHING FINE?"

"Yes. I'm perfectly fine. I haven't been kidnapped or anything. I'm at Kyouya-"

"I already know about that. That's not what I want to say."

She finally noticed the concern in his voice.

"I'm talking about the thunderstorm. There's one going on right now. It might not have hit Kyouya's area yet. Please, whatever you do, stay at his place."

She paled. "But…what about my father? I have to call-"

"Taken care of. As much as he doesn't like me, he heard what I had to say."

She heard Kyouya answer his phone.

"Alright."

"Thank you, Haruhi…WE DON'T HANG OUT AS OFTEN! I MISS YOOUU!"

"MISS ME? WE SAW EACH OTHER JUST YESTERDAY!"

He didn't hear what she said, still whining and sobbing as he spoke over Haruhi.

"MISS YYOOOUUUUU-"

She closed her phone, cutting Tamaki off. At the same time, Kyouya had closed his.

"That was Ranka-san."

"I figured."

She looked at Mr. Ootori, smiling a Host Club smile that she always pulled. "Well, it seems like I'll be staying here after all. Thank you."

Mr. Ootori didn't smile. He straightened up, giving the "powerful man" stance, and nodded. "Well, that's good to hear. I hope you enjoy you stay." He walked away, leaving the two of them alone.

"Well, that was interesting."

Haruhi had to chuckle at Kyouya's words. She was definitely grateful for Tamaki. She was about to head out to a storm, and that made her blood run cold.

"I'll talk to the maids about your stay."

"Right."

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I hope you enjoyed it! I'll put the next chapter soon.