Ouran High School Host Club Fan Fiction ❯ Hindrance ❯ Bonus #1 ( Chapter 5 )
[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]
By: vampyremiyu 
A bonus chapter, taking place during one of the trips to Paris mentioned in Part 4.
Anime/Manga: Ouran High School Host Club Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 08.28.2008 | Pages: 5 | Words: 3.5K | Visits: 305 | Status: Completed
A bonus chapter, taking place during one of the trips to Paris mentioned in Part 4.
Anime/Manga: Ouran High School Host Club Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 08.28.2008 | Pages: 5 | Words: 3.5K | Visits: 305 | Status: Completed
HINDRANCE
An Ouran High School Host Club Fanfic
Written by Miyu, Vampire Princess
AUTHOR'S NOTES: Not to be outdone, and because I didn't think of it BEFORE I finished the story, I bring you this bonus chapter. Takes place during one of the couple's trips to Paris, France. You have to read to find out which one it is, though. Kyoya + Renge. Possible OOC-ness. A Standard Disclaimer appears at the end of the chapter.
Bonus Chapter #1
"Will there be anything else miss?"
"No, thank you."
She had the perfect shoes.
The perfect dress.
The perfect hairstyle.
The perfect jewelry.
The perfect dinner reservation.
"Mr. Ohtori called, miss. He'll be a little late."
But there was just one thing she was missing.
"Again?"
"I'm sorry, yes."
Renge Houshakuji sighed heavily, practically throwing herself into a nearby chair. There was only so much shopping she could do. Only so much tea she could drink with a bunch of women she would rather not speak to. Only so many sights to see. And she'd done them all before! The third or fourth time around was far from fun.
"Would you like me to put away your packages?"
"No, thank you. I'll do it myself."
But she'd do them all again, if only Kyoya Ohtori would join her.
"Very good miss. Let me know if you need anything else."
With another sigh, Renge closed her eyes and leaned back into the chair. Her thoughts were focused on her boyfriend. Yes, boyfriend. For a time, she didn't think it would be possible. She'd chased after him for a time in high school. And just when she thought she'd give up, he offered her a contract. The chance of a lifetime. It seemed like the perfect thing for two business people such as themselves.
Each encounter became a learning experience. At first, it was for her benefit. It was hard looking at reality from a different perspective. But each meeting, each dinner, each vacation, each moment they spent together helped her to understand him better. He wasn't perfect, though he believed he was damn close. And it was the imperfections -- those things that a video game character could never have -- that only made her love him more.
Kyoya slowly opened up as time went on. While he was clearly a business man first and foremost, it was always a treat when he'd make a reservation at her favorite restaurant, or surprise her with a special gift. Usually flowers. His worries about being number one with his father eventually ebbed. The pressure he put on himself to be perfect somewhat faded. And his friendships...well, they only grew stronger.
The contract seemed to be working magic for both of them.
But the good time were not without the bad times.
The beginning was the toughest, or so Renge thought. Except for business, there was no real connection between the two of them. The both grew frustrated, agitated, and sometimes angry. Their debates became arguments and discussions turned into yelling matches.
"Maybe we should just give up."
Kyoya's words still stung her heart. After all he had done for her, she despised those words more than anything. He didn't let her give up, and she wasn't about to let him. "It's just taking time to adjust. I'm sure a little more time won't hurt."
"Do you have any idea what this whole experience has done to me?!"
"Kyoya...."
He continued to spill everything. Ugly, hateful words hung in the air around them as he let loose. His world appeared to be gone. Everything he knew was disappearing. The new world he was in was a complete mystery. Nothing felt familiar. Nothing felt right. He was so full of emotion that even Renge was a bit frightened. She'd never seen him so lost.
And when the argument really go heated, when she suggested that he just leave her to drown in the new world alone, he turned on her in rage.
Then he immediately stopped himself, horrified.
"Kyoya...."
"Leave. Just...leave!"
She did. But even as she closed the door behind her she could see Kyoya's face. His eyes enlarged, scared as he stared at his hand in mid-air. Surprise and horror mixed with disbelief. It wasn't him. Clearly. It was raw emotion. His emotion. And it terrified her as well.
For weeks afterward he kept to himself. He said nothing to her or the other Host Club members. But something was clearing wearing on him. He looked tired, exhausted most days. He was disinterested in classes, let alone club activities. Tamaki was the first to step forward, sharing his concern. Kyoya waved it off.
"I'm fine."
"No, you're not," Tamaki had said.
And the look he received was something akin to death itself.
That's when he made the reservation for Paris. A reservation for two.
"I think it's a good idea, Suoh-san," Renge told him. "Kyoya clearly needs some rest."
"Then treat him kindly, Houshakuji-san."
"Wha--?"
"You'll be accompanying him. Not me."
Renge could hardly argue. He gave her no choice. The reservations were made in their names. And so last minute that there was no way to change them.
The trip was very awkward at first. They left the airport in a limousine and made their way to the hotel. The suite was ready for them as they checked-in, and settling in seemed to take no time at all.
"What would you like to see first," Renge asked.
"Go without me," Kyoya said. "I'm...going to take a nap."
She was disappointed, but went on her own. Day after day until she could take it no longer. Finally she stopped asking him, determined to spend her time out and about in Paris.
But it broke her heart.
Perhaps the contract was broken as well.
Then, one evening after a very silent dinner.... "Would you mind coming with me to see the Eiffel Tower?"
"It's late," she stated softly.
"I know."
Renge agreed, finishing her drink before grabbing her jacket. She was surprised when he grasped her hand, holding it the entire time they were in the limousine. She was surprised by his smile as he helped her out of the car once they reached their destination. He had remained quiet, even as he led her to a small spot under the Tower. But this was a different person. A different Kyoya.
"It's taken me some time to realize this. And I'm sorry I didn't realize it sooner."
"Kyoya?" She shifted in the cool night air, but Kyoya forced her to look at him, his eyes afire in the lights of the Eiffel Tower. Once she caught his gaze, she couldn't look way.
"I love you, Renge. It's new...and terrifying. Somewhat illogical. Yet, I can't help myself." He cupped her face in his hands. "I love you."
The contract wasn't broken after all.
"I love you, too!"
And Renge couldn't be happier.
Unlike now.
Staring at her latest shopping assets, she sighed again. "I suppose I should put those away. Maybe I'll try them all on again."
And as she began toting her things to the bedroom, she hoped that tonight wouldn't be spoiled. She wanted it to be as special as that night had been.
It was their anniversary, after all.
"Is that package ready?"
"Yes, sir. We prepared it as soon as your man called."
"Very good."
"Is there anything else you need, Mr. Ohtori?"
"This will do for now. Thank you."
Kyoya couldn't hide a devious smile as he exited the jewelry store. He'd ordered his item months in advance. They assured him the quality was the finest he could find and their jeweler had worked for weeks altering it to his specifications.
He'd made the plans to visit Paris, shortly after they'd call to tell him his item was ready. Between college and working, both he and Renge needed some tie alone together. With their anniversary coming up, he thought it was the perfect gift.
And he hoped to surprise her with it at dinner.
"We're going to be late, Mr. Ohtori."
"No rush."
"But, sir?"
Their relationship was intriguing to him. Not just in a business aspect, but in an emotional and mental aspect as well. What a learning experience it had been. He was a man with flaws. Who knew? And he had an ugly side, something that terrified him. But it was the discovery of that part of him that made him refocus. He worked harder and with more determination.
On business.
On himself.
This was an opportunity for him to express his thanks. And his gift couldn't be more profound. More symbolic.
"They've put this meeting off for weeks, putting us in an awkward situation, Mr. Palaise. They can wait a few more minutes."
Enter his father. He had asked Kyoya to attend to some business while he was here. And there was no way to tell him no. He had already wasted three days trying to placate their French business partners. Quite frankly he was getting fed up with them. But he was still a business professional and he intended to make his father proud.
Unfortunately, it was that determination that was going to ruin his plans.
"What do you mean, they've switched the meeting? Again?"
"Something came up, Mr. Ohtori. Mr. Sorvert had to reschedule."
"He's wasting my time is what he's doing." He adjusted his glasses, trying to reign himself in. It was truly disgusting how these Frenchmen were doing business. But it wouldn't do to take it out on the secretary. She was merely the messenger.
"Actually, he has scheduled a tour of the factory for you in place of the meeting. The staff can answer any questions you have. Mr. Sorvert will meet you at The Alcove for drinks afterward."
"Wonderful." But Kyoya was only half-hearted about it. Especially when he could be spending time with Renge, as he originally planned.
And give her his gift, as he originally planned.
He was frustrated with the set-backs. But, he told himself, this was business. As he followed his colleagues out of the office and over to the factory his father was trying to purchase, he found himself calling the hotel. He'd be late again tonight, he told them.
And after he hung up, he cursed his father.
Then himself.
The clock had chimed nine times before Kyoya Ohtori entered his hotel suite. He rolled his eyes as he recalled the meeting of the past two hours. Business had been finalized after ten minutes. For once, they'd gotten straight to the point, and he was pleased with the result. His father, too, would be happy to hear the news.
Then...the drinking began.
And his colleagues – the ones who had been driving him all over town – decided to join in. He watched them all get trashed on a few beers and a bottle of wine. Then he bid them good night and hailed a cab. He had better things to do with his evening.
"Good evening, Mr. Ohtori."
"Evening, Marcus." He handed the man his coat as he entered the main room of the suite. He waited for the usual greeting he received from Renge, but ended up confused when he was met with silence.
"Did Renge go out tonight?"
Marcus nodded. "Yes sir. She left just before seven. Something about a dinner reservation."
"Did she mention where?"
"No, sir. She did not." The servant paused. "But she was dressed very elegantly."
"I see." Kyoya realized she could've gone to any number of restaurants in town. But she hadn't mentioned anything about a reservation when he spoke with her that morning. Had she met a new friend? "Any messages?"
"No, sir."
Kyoya extended his arm and Marcus gently placed the jacket over it. The younger man blinked at him curiously while donning the garment. He older man only smiled.
"I'll give you a call if I hear from her, sir."
Kyoya smiled. "Thanks, Marcus."
He drove in the limo for almost thirty minutes with still no sign of Renge. His curiosity began to turn into fear. Where could she have gone? He was never a nervous man, but he couldn't shake the feelings of foreboding and dread that he felt. Obviously she was upset. And he couldn't deflect blame.
With a sigh, he glanced at the Parisian skyline through the limo's sunroof. There were so many places in Paris, and she loved most of them. But it was the lights of the Eiffel Tower that gave him an idea.
"There! Take me there!"
"Yes, sir."
He only hoped he was right.
A heavy sigh permeated the air for the third time in as many minutes as people were ushered away from the Eiffel Tower and blended in to the city's night life. The smiled and laughed, all dressed up to take on the town. Their chatter faded as they left, leaving one lone figure to stand at the base of the tower.
Renge knew she should have called the hotel, or Kyoya, and let them know she was out sightseeing. Even if that wasn't what she was doing.
She had gone to the restaurant alone, feeling like a fool as she dined alone. Afterward she did a bit of window shopping, uninspired and unwilling to really shop. She did pick up a trinket at a small souvenir stand, but she really was uninterested in her surroundings.
Unwittingly she found herself at the Eiffel Tower just after sunset.
Oh if only she could hear Kyoya say her name like that.
"Renge!"
Her head immediately snapped up in surprise. She'd heard her name. She knew she did. But the voice was so strained that she didn't recognize it as Kyoya's.
Yet, there he was. Running up to meet her. She immediately turned away, averting her eyes. She had to look a mess, and her hands unconsciously ran through her hair, and over the front of the jacket.
"Kyoya? What are you doing here?"
"Looking for you."
She was quick to wipe away tears that were still falling. "For me?"
"Yes." As inconspicuously as he could, he pulled a handkerchief from his jacket pocket and handed it to her.
"Thanks." She accepted it with a half smile.
After a moment, Kyoya cleared his throat. "I understand I missed dinner."
She nodded, still not looking at him. "I had a reservation at your favorite place. The one with the Thai food."
"You have to reserve months in advance there." The surprise in his voice was evident.
"I know."
"I'm sorry. If I'd have known--?"
"Then it wouldn't be a surprise, now would it?"
He closed his eyes and sighed inwardly. Fighting with her was the last thing he wanted to do, especially in public. And though he didn't like surprises, he was still touched that she remember the restaurant.
"How did your business meeting go?"
"Good." He nodded. "We finally closed the deal."
"Really?"
"Really."
She smiled a little. "That's great. I'm glad."
"Me, too." Kyoya also smiled. "They were starting to drive me bonkers."
"Bonkers? Is that a business term?"
"Yes. Yes it is."
They both laughed light heartedly. It seemed to break the ice, making the air around them lighter. Renge breathed in deeply, letting it out slowly. She still felt tense, but was clearly relieved knowing that Kyoya's business was over.
"So I don't have to spend tomorrow on my own again?"
"No, you don't." Kyoya adjusted his glasses, and then shook his head. "Not tomorrow. Not the next day." He paused. "Never again."
Renge looked at him, his voice more emotional than she was used to. He appeared to fidget, his hands fumbling in his coat pockets. When he realized she was watching him, he offered her a small smile. She waited for him to either brush it off, or say something witty.
"Well, this is far from how I planned it," he said, a small black velvet box in hand.
"Planned?" Her heart skipped several beats. "Huh?"
"I had hoped to do this in front of a large group of people, but...." He opened the box, displaying a gorgeous three karat diamond ring inside. "It's the question that's most important."
And when he dropped to one knee, her heart stopped completely.
"Kyoya...?"
"Renge Houshakuji, will you marry me?"
His voice was loud enough to attract a few passers by. One or two smiled as they passed. Several even stopped to watch, whispering to each other in the night.
Renge was really too stunned to notice any of it. She didn't even really look at the ring! Her eyes were focused solely on Kyoya. But it was difficult to see his eyes clearly, their color dimmed by the light of the tower in his glasses.
Marriage? They had never talked about it. Not really. Oh, there were teases from their friends and family. But they weren't taken seriously. This was so unexpected. There was only one thing she could say.
"Yes!"
Kyoya placed the ring on her finger, and endured the bear hug and squeal she let loose. His own arms held her tightly, and he smiled as the small crowd cheered for them. As she pulled away, he whispered, "Happy anniversary."
"I love you," she whispered back.
"I guess we're going to need a new contract."
Her smile was brighter than the tower around them. "Indeed."
And this time, they sealed the deal with a kiss.
~OWARI~
DISCLAIER:
Ouran High School Host Club is a brilliant piece of work by creator Bisco Hatori. Originally published in 2003 by HAKUSENSHA, Inc., Tokyo, Japan, this masterpiece is being translated and published by VIZ Media for fans in America and Canada. I do not own a single piece of the characters used in this story. They were kidnapped and used here without permission.
An Ouran High School Host Club Fanfic
Written by Miyu, Vampire Princess
AUTHOR'S NOTES: Not to be outdone, and because I didn't think of it BEFORE I finished the story, I bring you this bonus chapter. Takes place during one of the couple's trips to Paris, France. You have to read to find out which one it is, though. Kyoya + Renge. Possible OOC-ness. A Standard Disclaimer appears at the end of the chapter.
Bonus Chapter #1
"Will there be anything else miss?"
"No, thank you."
She had the perfect shoes.
The perfect dress.
The perfect hairstyle.
The perfect jewelry.
The perfect dinner reservation.
"Mr. Ohtori called, miss. He'll be a little late."
But there was just one thing she was missing.
"Again?"
"I'm sorry, yes."
Renge Houshakuji sighed heavily, practically throwing herself into a nearby chair. There was only so much shopping she could do. Only so much tea she could drink with a bunch of women she would rather not speak to. Only so many sights to see. And she'd done them all before! The third or fourth time around was far from fun.
"Would you like me to put away your packages?"
"No, thank you. I'll do it myself."
But she'd do them all again, if only Kyoya Ohtori would join her.
"Very good miss. Let me know if you need anything else."
With another sigh, Renge closed her eyes and leaned back into the chair. Her thoughts were focused on her boyfriend. Yes, boyfriend. For a time, she didn't think it would be possible. She'd chased after him for a time in high school. And just when she thought she'd give up, he offered her a contract. The chance of a lifetime. It seemed like the perfect thing for two business people such as themselves.
Each encounter became a learning experience. At first, it was for her benefit. It was hard looking at reality from a different perspective. But each meeting, each dinner, each vacation, each moment they spent together helped her to understand him better. He wasn't perfect, though he believed he was damn close. And it was the imperfections -- those things that a video game character could never have -- that only made her love him more.
Kyoya slowly opened up as time went on. While he was clearly a business man first and foremost, it was always a treat when he'd make a reservation at her favorite restaurant, or surprise her with a special gift. Usually flowers. His worries about being number one with his father eventually ebbed. The pressure he put on himself to be perfect somewhat faded. And his friendships...well, they only grew stronger.
The contract seemed to be working magic for both of them.
But the good time were not without the bad times.
The beginning was the toughest, or so Renge thought. Except for business, there was no real connection between the two of them. The both grew frustrated, agitated, and sometimes angry. Their debates became arguments and discussions turned into yelling matches.
"Maybe we should just give up."
Kyoya's words still stung her heart. After all he had done for her, she despised those words more than anything. He didn't let her give up, and she wasn't about to let him. "It's just taking time to adjust. I'm sure a little more time won't hurt."
"Do you have any idea what this whole experience has done to me?!"
"Kyoya...."
He continued to spill everything. Ugly, hateful words hung in the air around them as he let loose. His world appeared to be gone. Everything he knew was disappearing. The new world he was in was a complete mystery. Nothing felt familiar. Nothing felt right. He was so full of emotion that even Renge was a bit frightened. She'd never seen him so lost.
And when the argument really go heated, when she suggested that he just leave her to drown in the new world alone, he turned on her in rage.
Then he immediately stopped himself, horrified.
"Kyoya...."
"Leave. Just...leave!"
She did. But even as she closed the door behind her she could see Kyoya's face. His eyes enlarged, scared as he stared at his hand in mid-air. Surprise and horror mixed with disbelief. It wasn't him. Clearly. It was raw emotion. His emotion. And it terrified her as well.
For weeks afterward he kept to himself. He said nothing to her or the other Host Club members. But something was clearing wearing on him. He looked tired, exhausted most days. He was disinterested in classes, let alone club activities. Tamaki was the first to step forward, sharing his concern. Kyoya waved it off.
"I'm fine."
"No, you're not," Tamaki had said.
And the look he received was something akin to death itself.
That's when he made the reservation for Paris. A reservation for two.
"I think it's a good idea, Suoh-san," Renge told him. "Kyoya clearly needs some rest."
"Then treat him kindly, Houshakuji-san."
"Wha--?"
"You'll be accompanying him. Not me."
Renge could hardly argue. He gave her no choice. The reservations were made in their names. And so last minute that there was no way to change them.
The trip was very awkward at first. They left the airport in a limousine and made their way to the hotel. The suite was ready for them as they checked-in, and settling in seemed to take no time at all.
"What would you like to see first," Renge asked.
"Go without me," Kyoya said. "I'm...going to take a nap."
She was disappointed, but went on her own. Day after day until she could take it no longer. Finally she stopped asking him, determined to spend her time out and about in Paris.
But it broke her heart.
Perhaps the contract was broken as well.
Then, one evening after a very silent dinner.... "Would you mind coming with me to see the Eiffel Tower?"
"It's late," she stated softly.
"I know."
Renge agreed, finishing her drink before grabbing her jacket. She was surprised when he grasped her hand, holding it the entire time they were in the limousine. She was surprised by his smile as he helped her out of the car once they reached their destination. He had remained quiet, even as he led her to a small spot under the Tower. But this was a different person. A different Kyoya.
"It's taken me some time to realize this. And I'm sorry I didn't realize it sooner."
"Kyoya?" She shifted in the cool night air, but Kyoya forced her to look at him, his eyes afire in the lights of the Eiffel Tower. Once she caught his gaze, she couldn't look way.
"I love you, Renge. It's new...and terrifying. Somewhat illogical. Yet, I can't help myself." He cupped her face in his hands. "I love you."
The contract wasn't broken after all.
"I love you, too!"
And Renge couldn't be happier.
Unlike now.
Staring at her latest shopping assets, she sighed again. "I suppose I should put those away. Maybe I'll try them all on again."
And as she began toting her things to the bedroom, she hoped that tonight wouldn't be spoiled. She wanted it to be as special as that night had been.
It was their anniversary, after all.
"Is that package ready?"
"Yes, sir. We prepared it as soon as your man called."
"Very good."
"Is there anything else you need, Mr. Ohtori?"
"This will do for now. Thank you."
Kyoya couldn't hide a devious smile as he exited the jewelry store. He'd ordered his item months in advance. They assured him the quality was the finest he could find and their jeweler had worked for weeks altering it to his specifications.
He'd made the plans to visit Paris, shortly after they'd call to tell him his item was ready. Between college and working, both he and Renge needed some tie alone together. With their anniversary coming up, he thought it was the perfect gift.
And he hoped to surprise her with it at dinner.
"We're going to be late, Mr. Ohtori."
"No rush."
"But, sir?"
Their relationship was intriguing to him. Not just in a business aspect, but in an emotional and mental aspect as well. What a learning experience it had been. He was a man with flaws. Who knew? And he had an ugly side, something that terrified him. But it was the discovery of that part of him that made him refocus. He worked harder and with more determination.
On business.
On himself.
This was an opportunity for him to express his thanks. And his gift couldn't be more profound. More symbolic.
"They've put this meeting off for weeks, putting us in an awkward situation, Mr. Palaise. They can wait a few more minutes."
Enter his father. He had asked Kyoya to attend to some business while he was here. And there was no way to tell him no. He had already wasted three days trying to placate their French business partners. Quite frankly he was getting fed up with them. But he was still a business professional and he intended to make his father proud.
Unfortunately, it was that determination that was going to ruin his plans.
"What do you mean, they've switched the meeting? Again?"
"Something came up, Mr. Ohtori. Mr. Sorvert had to reschedule."
"He's wasting my time is what he's doing." He adjusted his glasses, trying to reign himself in. It was truly disgusting how these Frenchmen were doing business. But it wouldn't do to take it out on the secretary. She was merely the messenger.
"Actually, he has scheduled a tour of the factory for you in place of the meeting. The staff can answer any questions you have. Mr. Sorvert will meet you at The Alcove for drinks afterward."
"Wonderful." But Kyoya was only half-hearted about it. Especially when he could be spending time with Renge, as he originally planned.
And give her his gift, as he originally planned.
He was frustrated with the set-backs. But, he told himself, this was business. As he followed his colleagues out of the office and over to the factory his father was trying to purchase, he found himself calling the hotel. He'd be late again tonight, he told them.
And after he hung up, he cursed his father.
Then himself.
The clock had chimed nine times before Kyoya Ohtori entered his hotel suite. He rolled his eyes as he recalled the meeting of the past two hours. Business had been finalized after ten minutes. For once, they'd gotten straight to the point, and he was pleased with the result. His father, too, would be happy to hear the news.
Then...the drinking began.
And his colleagues – the ones who had been driving him all over town – decided to join in. He watched them all get trashed on a few beers and a bottle of wine. Then he bid them good night and hailed a cab. He had better things to do with his evening.
"Good evening, Mr. Ohtori."
"Evening, Marcus." He handed the man his coat as he entered the main room of the suite. He waited for the usual greeting he received from Renge, but ended up confused when he was met with silence.
"Did Renge go out tonight?"
Marcus nodded. "Yes sir. She left just before seven. Something about a dinner reservation."
"Did she mention where?"
"No, sir. She did not." The servant paused. "But she was dressed very elegantly."
"I see." Kyoya realized she could've gone to any number of restaurants in town. But she hadn't mentioned anything about a reservation when he spoke with her that morning. Had she met a new friend? "Any messages?"
"No, sir."
Kyoya extended his arm and Marcus gently placed the jacket over it. The younger man blinked at him curiously while donning the garment. He older man only smiled.
"I'll give you a call if I hear from her, sir."
Kyoya smiled. "Thanks, Marcus."
He drove in the limo for almost thirty minutes with still no sign of Renge. His curiosity began to turn into fear. Where could she have gone? He was never a nervous man, but he couldn't shake the feelings of foreboding and dread that he felt. Obviously she was upset. And he couldn't deflect blame.
With a sigh, he glanced at the Parisian skyline through the limo's sunroof. There were so many places in Paris, and she loved most of them. But it was the lights of the Eiffel Tower that gave him an idea.
"There! Take me there!"
"Yes, sir."
He only hoped he was right.
A heavy sigh permeated the air for the third time in as many minutes as people were ushered away from the Eiffel Tower and blended in to the city's night life. The smiled and laughed, all dressed up to take on the town. Their chatter faded as they left, leaving one lone figure to stand at the base of the tower.
Renge knew she should have called the hotel, or Kyoya, and let them know she was out sightseeing. Even if that wasn't what she was doing.
She had gone to the restaurant alone, feeling like a fool as she dined alone. Afterward she did a bit of window shopping, uninspired and unwilling to really shop. She did pick up a trinket at a small souvenir stand, but she really was uninterested in her surroundings.
Unwittingly she found herself at the Eiffel Tower just after sunset.
Oh if only she could hear Kyoya say her name like that.
"Renge!"
Her head immediately snapped up in surprise. She'd heard her name. She knew she did. But the voice was so strained that she didn't recognize it as Kyoya's.
Yet, there he was. Running up to meet her. She immediately turned away, averting her eyes. She had to look a mess, and her hands unconsciously ran through her hair, and over the front of the jacket.
"Kyoya? What are you doing here?"
"Looking for you."
She was quick to wipe away tears that were still falling. "For me?"
"Yes." As inconspicuously as he could, he pulled a handkerchief from his jacket pocket and handed it to her.
"Thanks." She accepted it with a half smile.
After a moment, Kyoya cleared his throat. "I understand I missed dinner."
She nodded, still not looking at him. "I had a reservation at your favorite place. The one with the Thai food."
"You have to reserve months in advance there." The surprise in his voice was evident.
"I know."
"I'm sorry. If I'd have known--?"
"Then it wouldn't be a surprise, now would it?"
He closed his eyes and sighed inwardly. Fighting with her was the last thing he wanted to do, especially in public. And though he didn't like surprises, he was still touched that she remember the restaurant.
"How did your business meeting go?"
"Good." He nodded. "We finally closed the deal."
"Really?"
"Really."
She smiled a little. "That's great. I'm glad."
"Me, too." Kyoya also smiled. "They were starting to drive me bonkers."
"Bonkers? Is that a business term?"
"Yes. Yes it is."
They both laughed light heartedly. It seemed to break the ice, making the air around them lighter. Renge breathed in deeply, letting it out slowly. She still felt tense, but was clearly relieved knowing that Kyoya's business was over.
"So I don't have to spend tomorrow on my own again?"
"No, you don't." Kyoya adjusted his glasses, and then shook his head. "Not tomorrow. Not the next day." He paused. "Never again."
Renge looked at him, his voice more emotional than she was used to. He appeared to fidget, his hands fumbling in his coat pockets. When he realized she was watching him, he offered her a small smile. She waited for him to either brush it off, or say something witty.
"Well, this is far from how I planned it," he said, a small black velvet box in hand.
"Planned?" Her heart skipped several beats. "Huh?"
"I had hoped to do this in front of a large group of people, but...." He opened the box, displaying a gorgeous three karat diamond ring inside. "It's the question that's most important."
And when he dropped to one knee, her heart stopped completely.
"Kyoya...?"
"Renge Houshakuji, will you marry me?"
His voice was loud enough to attract a few passers by. One or two smiled as they passed. Several even stopped to watch, whispering to each other in the night.
Renge was really too stunned to notice any of it. She didn't even really look at the ring! Her eyes were focused solely on Kyoya. But it was difficult to see his eyes clearly, their color dimmed by the light of the tower in his glasses.
Marriage? They had never talked about it. Not really. Oh, there were teases from their friends and family. But they weren't taken seriously. This was so unexpected. There was only one thing she could say.
"Yes!"
Kyoya placed the ring on her finger, and endured the bear hug and squeal she let loose. His own arms held her tightly, and he smiled as the small crowd cheered for them. As she pulled away, he whispered, "Happy anniversary."
"I love you," she whispered back.
"I guess we're going to need a new contract."
Her smile was brighter than the tower around them. "Indeed."
And this time, they sealed the deal with a kiss.
~OWARI~
DISCLAIER:
Ouran High School Host Club is a brilliant piece of work by creator Bisco Hatori. Originally published in 2003 by HAKUSENSHA, Inc., Tokyo, Japan, this masterpiece is being translated and published by VIZ Media for fans in America and Canada. I do not own a single piece of the characters used in this story. They were kidnapped and used here without permission.