NEW! Indeed: ~Chika’s “Down With Honey” Declaration!~

➼ pairing: kyoya ootori x reader

➼ summary: Honey-Senpai’s brother pays him a very unexpected visit, and it all goes downhill from there. Who would’ve thought you’d be one of the reasons that Chika looks at his brother like he’s lesser than?

➼ word count: 6.1k (very much a filler chapter)

➼ what to expect: “Who else do I know that doesn’t like sweets and wears glasses just like that?”

➼ warnings: fluffy, just a filler chapter, VERY MILD AND BRIEF mentions of child abuse by the reader (jokingly)

➼chapter navigation

A book perched in your arms, you carefully reach for the door handle to the clubroom when a voice behind you brings you to a halt.

“Excuse me, l/n-Senpai?”

“Hm?” You turn over your shoulder to find the origin of the voice- it’s rare that someone calls you by your surname with the addition of that honorific.

“Could you ask Mitsukuni to meet me out here?”

“Oh, Yasuchika! It’s wonderful to see you. What brings you here?” You smile brightly, turning your body to face him fully.

Yasuchika’s cheeks dust a light pink, eyes darting to the left, “I-”

Suddenly, Honey pops out from behind the door, perched on Mori’s shoulder, “Oh, look! It’s Chika-chan!”

Immediately, Chika’s eyes narrow at the sight of his brother, the lenses of his glasses glinting.

“So, what’s up? You rarely come over to the high school like this to see me.” Honey beams.

Chika straightens his glasses to create an intense glare in an all too familiar gesture, “Prepare yourself, Mitsukuni.” Then, Chika lunges toward Honey, sweeping his leg in an attempt to remove him from Mori’s shoulders by surprise.

But it’s rare that anyone could ever take Honey by surprise, and this is one of those occasions. Honey throws himself from Mori’s shoulders, landing flawlessly on the floor behind him in a crouched position. Chika readies himself into his usual stance, challenging Honey wordlessly.

“Boys will be boys.” you stride casually into the club room to find Haruhi gawking at the ordeal.

“Hey, come on, cut it out, you guys! Mori-Senpai!” Haruhi only earns an indifferent hum from Mori.

“What do you mean, ‘hm’?!”

As Honey rises to his feet, an all too familiar shriek pierces your ears, “Whoa, did you see that?!”

A powerful motor rumbles beneath the tiles, raising Renge on her platform, all ready with her play-by-play headset and miscellaneous gear.

“Honey-Senpai dodged Chika’s preliminary attack! This is gonna be good!”

“What’s going on?” Haruhi grumbles regretfully. Although she knows better than to ask, her curiosity often gets the better of her.

“Honey-Senpai is able to fly through the air with such grace; he’s like a modern-day Ushiwakamaru! Whoa! Chika attacks again without even giving him a chance to regain his balance.”

As Chika throws his fists on either side of Honey’s head, Honey ducks and sweeps Chika’s legs out from under him.

“Incredible! He dodged his attack and tripped him! Neither of them is gonna give; they keep lashing out with ferocious techniques!”

Haruhi blinks owlishly. You duck at a stray fist amid the fight, chuckling, “Hands to yourselves, boys.” You quickly make your way over to where Tamaki, the twins, and Kyoya are standing.

“This is why you mustn’t stand so close.” Kyoya reminds.

“And this is why you mustn’t boss me around.” you mock playfully.

Chika comes to a skidding halt, his ready position nearly trembling with anger as his glasses glint off the light, and Honey stands completely unfazed.

“Who in their right mind would believe they can beat Honey-Senpai?” you scoff irritably. Kyoya shrugs, “His own flesh and blood seems to be a fair match.”

“It’s not a fair match if Honey-Senpai’s winning,” you state the obvious.

“So, they’re at it again?” Tamaki observes with a curious smile and his hand poised under his chin.

“I wish they would have chosen a better location to do this.” Kyoya exasperatedly sighs.

“Wait, why are you guys so calm?!” Haruhi demands.

You peer over Haruhi’s shoulder to find that Chika’s unleashed his weapon of choice- a staff. You gently push Haruhi’s shoulder and point in his direction.

“Now things are getting serious; Chika’s got a weapon!”

Chika lunges swiftly at Honey, wielding his staff over his head and swinging (and missing) at his brother. Honey leaps and tumbles backward, landing perfectly on his feet with little effort.

As Chika continues to swing his weapon at Honey’s head, Honey continues to dodge him expertly, not breaking a single sweat.

“Hey! No way! The use of weapons should be against the rules!”

“What should be against the rules is how long Honey’s pretending to put up a fight.” you point out casually.

All at once, Chika’s staff cracks against Honey’s body and sends him soaring through the air with a grunt.

“Oh, ouch.” you grimace. Although Honey’s tough, anyone would have to admit that getting pummeled by any sort of weapon would hurt in some way.

“Whoa, he knocked him out of the park!” Hikaru exclaims.

“This may be his first win!” Kaoru gasps.

Chika pants, hunched over from exertion, a slight smirk befalling his features, “I gotcha.” His staff retracts with a shing!

You smile mischievously, glancing up at Kyoya expectantly. He playfully rolls his eyes and gently pushes his hand against the small of your back, “Go on.”

Practically with a skip in your step, you arrive at Chika’s side, taking him by surprise at your proximity.

“Ah, ah, ah~ Not quite, my friend.” You tap him on his shoulder to gain his attention, then point down to his pant legs- which are pinned to the floor beneath him by four shuriken.

“y/n’s right about that.” Mori chimes in.

“See? He got you.” Mori all but smirks as Chika glances down in shock at his own defeat.

“How the hell did he do that?” Chika growls.

Honey dusts his hands off effortlessly, his wide eyes blinking childishly at his brother in mock innocence.

“In the heat of battle, Honey-Senpai was able to attack with his shuriken before Chika noticed!” At her words, the curtains to the clubroom pull themselves shut to provide a dark atmosphere, blocking the light so that the projector on the other side of the room could project the replay of their fight for everyone else to see.

Surely enough, if you watch closely, you will find that Honey uses four shuriken to pin his brother in place. Then, the curtains pull back, and the screen ascends back into the ceiling.

“He uses… shuriken?” Haruhi deadpans.

Chika’s hair hides his pained, angry expression as he breathes heavily through his clenched teeth.

“His attack has left Chika utterly defenseless! What a great fight! Can’t wait for the next one. Until then, see ya!” Renge’s platform descends into the floor and is gone faster than it appeared.

Chika falls to his knees before Honey defeatedly. You bend down carefully and pluck the shuriken from the floor, “There you are- all free.” You take all four shuriken in one hand with a smile.

Chika glances over his shoulder and meets your eyes, his angry expression falling into that of embarrassment. He quickly shoves the thought to the back of his mind, tearing his gaze away from you.

“Hey, guys! I’m completely lost; you wanna tell me what’s going on here? Who’s that kid, and why’d he attack Honey-Senpai?” Haruhi inquires blankly.

Kyoya adjusts his glasses.

“What? You mean you can’t tell just by looking at his face? He’s Honey-Senpai’s younger brother.”

Haruhi gasps, realizing that Chika’s practically the spitting image of Honey if you look carefully upon closer inspection.

Chika’s “Down With Honey” Declaration!

“The Haninozukas are a noble family. We excel in martial arts. We’ve combined styles over the years to create our very own method of fighting.”

Seated on the very far side of one of the host club’s sofas, Chika’s hand props his cheek as he avoids eye contact with the club members in the room.

“When we’re away, we study karate and judo. But when we’re home, we work had to master the Haninozuka technique. So to make sure that we always stay alert, we have been taught that whenever two family members come face to face, they must engage each other in battle.”

You round the corner by Chika’s sofa with a tray full of teacups and slices of cake. As you set one of each before Chika, Tamaki leans on the coffee table with a bright smile, “Go on, Yasuchika, we saved you a yummy piece of cake.”

“Thank you, but I don’t care for sweets.”

You simper smugly, turning to Kyoya standing beside you, “You know, he reminds me an awful lot of someone I know… hm, whoever could it be?” You ponder with mock innocence, tapping your chin thoughtfully.

“Don’t play dumb, y/n.” Kyoya groans from beside you.

“Oh! That’s right.” You snap, almost gaining a fond smile from your boyfriend.

“Who else do I know that doesn’t like sweets and wears glasses just like that?” You turn to Kyoya, mock-obliviously.

“I couldn’t possibly know.” Kyoya plays along.

“Hm. Guess we’ll never know.”

“Besides, the basic principle of the Haninozuka technique is refraining from selfishness. So to let myself indulge in sweets would be out of the question.”

You chuckle softly, “One little piece of cake won’t hurt you.” You gently urge.

Hikaru and Kaoru pop up simultaneously behind Haruhi, “Hold on, I happen to know of a sweets loving, overly pampered little loli boy who happens to be-”

“- the next head of the Haninozukas.” Kaoru finishes as each twin points to Honey, “And he’s sitting right over there.”

Chika groans irritably, glancing at his older brother through his glowering peripheral vision, seated at a different table, shoving cake into his mouth as Mori watches over him.

“Let me just say, there’s no way I’m ever going to recognize a dimwit like Mitsukuni as the next head of our family.”

Honey perks up at his name, deflating slightly at his brother’s harsh words.

Your brows furrow, your jaw slightly slacked at the offensive nature of Chika’s statement. Honey is probably the sweetest high schooler you’ve ever met; how can someone talk about him like that?

“There’s no doubt my older brother is strong, but he lives a decadent lifestyle and had failed to show any self-restraint. He no longer has the right to be called a Haninozuka. I can’t allow someone who arbitrarily quit the karate club only to become hooked on cake and stuffed animals to be the head of the Haninozuka family. Even if he is my older brother.” Chika rises to his feet, “I’ve been meaning to make that clear for a while. And another thing, Mitsukuni, I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again- stay away from me at school, got it?”

After his barking command, Chika departs from the club room.

“Kyoya… would it be wrong to punch a child?” At your question, Kyoya takes your clenched fist and lowers it to your side, “Let’s not have any threats of child abuse on our hands.”

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Honey clutches tightly to Usa-chan as he gazes pensively through the window panes of the clubroom. Haruhi approaches him carefully, “Senpai? Are you doing okay?”

Honey hugs Usa-chan closer to his chest, sighing quietly.

You beam, arriving at Haruhi’s side, a plate of cake in your hand, “Honey-Senpai? Whatever should we do with this cake?” You tilt it gently from side to side.

Honey spins around immediately, “I’ll eat it~!” Honey quickly scarfs down the slice of cake and proceeds to twirl happily with Usa-chan in his arms, “Yay!”

Haruhi’s eyes follow Honey as he continues to spin joyfully, “So you used to be in the karate club, Honey-Senpai? I had no idea. What made you decide to quit and join with the Host Club?”

Tamaki slides over, miffed, “Why did you just say 'the Host Club’ like that? What are you getting at, huh?” He pouts.

“Well, no matter how you cut it, the karate club is a much more reputable club than ours is, Senpai.”

Tamaki wails in anguish, crouching into his dark, sullen corner and drawing patterns on the floor with his index finger.

“If you really want to know-” Hikaru appears on one of Haruhi’s sides, perching his elbow on her shoulder.

“- we’ll have to take a little trip down memory lane.” Kaoru mirrors his brother.

“It was long before the Host Club had been established.”

“Listen up, and we’ll tell you the legend of Honey-Senpai: The Captain of the Karate Club.”

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In the Haninozuka estate, members of their elite martial arts group train for hours on end. Although, Honey-Senpai’s opponent seems to be bested easily.

“Oh… so the eldest son is in high school, now?”

“I heard he’s already been made captain of the karate club, AND he’s only a first-year!”

“That is outstanding!”

“I know he’s a growing boy, but doesn’t he seem small for his age? He may not be respected as head of the family if he stays that small.”

Knelt before his father with Mori by his side, Honey faces him with great respect.

“Mitsukuni, you are aware of what the others are saying about you, right?”

“Yes.”

“You must work even harder to maintain your self-discipline, completely cast aside all weaknesses and leniency, and take hold of your true strength.”

“Right.” Honey determinedly nods.

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“From that day forward, Honey-Senpai tried his very best. It was difficult, but he worked hard.” The twins nod in agreement with Tamaki.

“So he spent more time working on martial arts moves?” Haruhi assumes.

“Wrong! Well aware of what others were saying about him, Honey-Senpai worked hard to follow his father’s orders.”

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“He sealed away all of his cute possessions so as not to seem weak.”

Honey tightens his karate belt, surrounded by mountains of crates full of his stuffed animals and the like.

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As he arrives in the grounds of Ouran, Honey can be seen carrying his very own school bag, tossed over his shoulder carefully. This was severely out of character, his face adorned with a solemn expression. Mori strides along behind him wordlessly.

“Then, he decided to take on a hard and fearless disposition. That of a manly man.”

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Honey grimaces at his lunch before him- a plate of finely cooked steak smeared in butter and plated with broccoli and a well seasoned baked potato.

“However, it was obvious to everyone around him that his efforts were failing.”

Honey pouts, giving in to his fate. Then, his eyes catch a glimpse of a spread of sweets, baked goods, and pastries.

“Excuse me, Haninozuka, would you like me to get you a piece of cake?” A female student offers, seated near him with her friends.

“What are you doing?! He can’t!”

Honey turns away from them, “No, thank you, I don’t like sweets.” He struggles with his words.

“He’s upset! See what you did? He was exercising self-control!”

“I totally forgot; I’m so sorry!”

Honey’s eyes well up with tears as the sweets gain his attention once more.

“He’s trying so hard to resist!”

“You can tell he’s really struggling!”

“Oh, wow! It’s so touching!”

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“And so the girls were so touched by seeing him resist the things he loved that their moe senses went into overdrive.”

“I think you’re being a little dramatic.” You raise a suspicious brow at Tamaki’s observation.

“Not long after that, the Haninozuka fan club was born.”

Haruhi furrows her brows, glancing at each member in question, “What does any of that stuff have to do with the legend of the karate club?”

The twins come close together, their hands intertwined as they press their cheeks together, “Let us explain~.”

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The members of the Ouran Academy Karate Club train diligently in the presence of their captain.

“Okay, guys! Take a ten-minute break!” Honey demands.

“Sir!” The club members chorus obediently. Honey turns on his heel and strides off in the opposite direction.

“Hey, you know, Captain Haninozuka is such a strict and manly captain. His technique is awesome, and he always keeps us in line.” A member reminds, the rest of the members nodding adamantly.

“No joke. He’s the best captain ever!” Clearly, they’re just being polite.

“For real, though. He’s a super manly man.”

Nonetheless, Honey basks in the praise.

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Sniffling into their handkerchiefs, “That story’s such a tear-jerker!”

“You’re joking… how in the world is that story considered a tear-jerker?” You roll your eyes.

“Never mind, just tell me what happens, would ya?” Haruhi groans.

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Honey watches over his teammates as they spar and train. But, something colorful peeking through the cracked door catches his eye. His eyes grow wide as he spots a pink bunny rabbit puppet waving to him urgently. As soon as it appeared, it disappears from the doorway.

Honey shakes himself of his glittering curiosity, glancing at his team from his peripheral vision and stalking after the bunny rabbit.

He storms outside, but there’s nobody there- not a soul. Then, as he steps out of the building, he spots the bunny rabbit again, this time peeking at him from behind a wall and disappearing once more.

Honey nearly follows the rabbit around the entire building before coming to its source- you, of course.

You kneel before him, dressed in your middle school uniform, your hand shoved into the rabbit and making its mouth move in tune with your melodic voice.

“Why, hello there, Haninozuka-Senpai. I know this may be out of the blue… but…” You giggle, moving the rabbit along with your mannerisms. Honey gawks at you in wonder.

“I’m recruiting for a new club at Ouran; think you’d be interested in joining?”

Honey’s gaze lingers down on you a moment, "Aren’t you l/n? y/n, right? You’re from the middle school. What kind of club are you starting?”

“Wow, I’m so glad you asked, Haninozuka-Senpai!” Your eyes disappear into a broad smile, and Honey’s lips tug upward ever so slightly.

You pop up behind him suddenly, “Come now, Senpai, don’t you think it’s about time that you start to use your overwhelmingly good looks to get more out of life?”

You appear on his opposite side, still letting the bunny speak for you, “Why would you stay here, fighting, when you could use your adorable personality to give solace to young girls with far too much time on their hands?” You simper.

“Not to mention all the stuffed toys and cake you can imagine.”

Honey pants fervently- he can’t deny that it sounds like living the absolute dream.

You chuckle at his reaction, “I promise,” you place a hand to your heart, “if you join, we’ll constantly have sweets in stock and on hand, ready for you. I’ll see to it personally that it’s done.”

Tamaki expressed to you the importance of having Mitsukuni Haninozuka in his new club, and you aren’t going to take that matter lightly. You have a job now, albeit one forced upon you, but you’re going to make sure you carry out your every duty with grace and intention.

Honey comes back to reality, shaking those impure, selfish thoughts from his head, “Really? I mean… no! I don’t like sweets, so you can forget it! And for the record, I don’t like cutesy things either!”

You smirk, waving the bunny rabbit puppet before his eyes and gaining his attention immediately.

“No way… not into cutesy stuff… don’t like it… at all…” He whimpers, following the rabbit with his entire body.

You giggle fondly, “I don’t know much about martial arts or anything of the sort… but could you do me one small favor?”

“Sure, what is it?”

“Forgive me, but… I was just ever so curious… could you tell me what true strength is?”

Honey’s breath catches in his throat at your question.

“I may be terribly out of line, but I personally believe that true strength is having the courage to come into your own… to be yourself even when the opposite is expected of you. Putting on a facade seems just the same as running away.” You rise to your feet, significantly taller than Honey.

He stares at you in awe as you take his arm and place the puppet in his grasp, “That’s my two cents, anyway. I’ll be sure to come around and ask you again… consider it, Senpai, really.” You back away with an adorable wave and disappear around the corner.

Little does Honey know, Mori waits for him out of sight, brows furrowed at the offer as Honey longingly stares after you.

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Once again, knelt before his father, Honey’s mind is plagued with an existential question.

“What is it that you wanted to talk to me about?”

“Well… there’s something that I’ve been a little confused about, father. Can you please tell me what true strength is?” Honey gently requests.

Honey’s father menacingly rises to his feet, his glare piercing through his son with a fierce will, “I will show you, my son, so you can experience it directly. Come with me to the dojo!”

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Both Honey and his father take their ready positions with determined glares.

“It has been said that Honey-Senpai’s father is the most talented fighter in the Haninozuka family’s history.”

The referee slices through the air, signaling the beginning of the duel, “And… begin!”

Honey’s father growls, channeling his energy. As he leaps to Honey, Honey merely closes his eyes, opening them again when his father comes near and ultimately demolishes him within a matter of seconds.

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You put a thoughtful finger to your chin, “If my memory serves me correctly… Honey-Senpai had already gained his father’s current level of martial arts abilities, which is quite extraordinary if you ask me… well, am I right?” You turn over your shoulder, waiting for Honey’s response.

“Uh-huh!” Honey gleams from Mori’s shoulders.

“Rumor has it, the referee that happened to be officiating was Japan’s secretary of defense at the time, and he begged Honey-Senpai to never fight in public again, at least not at his full potential,” Tamaki informs.

“And why would he do that?” Haruhi grumbles.

“If the world ever saw Honey-Senpai’s true abilities, they’d suspect Japan of possessing a weapon of mass destruction! The secretary was afraid it might upset the UN, and then they would take it out on all of Japan…”

The twins come together once more, “How awful!” They coo.

“So, Honey-Senpai quit the karate club-”

“-and decided to become a member of the Host Club.”

You appear at Haruhi’s side, hands folded behind your back, “Because of his resulting decisions, Honey-Senpai’s younger brother had a much more strict upbringing to keep in tune with the original Haninozuka standards.”

“Sometimes, I think Chika-chan hates me because I’m not following the family rules.” Honey simpers wistfully.

“Alright, gentlemen! And lady, of course, time for operation 'Haninozuka Brothers’ Reconciliation’!”

The twins leap excitedly, “Hurray!”

“I knew he was gonna say that…” Haruhi deadpans.

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“Alright, ten-minute break!” Chika announces to the club members of the reputable karate club.

All in unison, “Sir!”

“You know, Captain Haninozuka sure is a strict captain. No matter how hard we try, it’s like he’s never satisfied. I really don’t think I can take it.” Most of the club members are thoroughly worn out by trying to reach Chika’s standards.

“Tell me about it…”

“He’s a tough captain, but he’s nowhere near as skilled at martial arts as his older brother Mitsukuni.”

Chika freezes in place at the mention of his brother’s name, especially in that context. He spins around and shoves his fist right up to one of his teammate’s faces, causing him to flinch so hard that he falls backward to the ground.

“You will not talk about my brother in my presence, do you understand?” Chika strictly commands.

His attention is soon diverted to the group of female students gathered around the tiny crack in the door, “Look! It’s Chika; he’s so adorable!”

“Oh, wow, he’s so totally cute!”

Chika might have almost enjoyed the attention until…

“Yeah, he’s not bad, but he’s no match for his older brother, Honey. He’s the cutest thing we’ve ever seen!”

Chika materializes in the doorway, glasses creating an intense glare, as he slams the doors to a close, drawing gasps and whispers from the teammates inside.

“What are you idiots looking at?! Get started with the next drill!”

“But… we’re still on our break, sir-”

“You’ve barely broken a sweat; you bums don’t need a break! Start working harder before you’re all out!”

“Sir!”

The entirety of the Host Club observes the karate club through the building’s window, brows furrowed in concern.

“Well, so far, it looks like a simple inferiority complex.” Hikaru nonchalantly shrugs.

“He’s always being compared to Honey-Senpai, so that’s why he feels such animosity towards him. His older brother is more attractive, more popular, and a better martial artist than he is. I think he’s just letting his jealousy get the best of him.” Kaoru observes aloud.

“It’s totally normal and way boring.” The twins turn away from the window and prance off elsewhere, “We’re going to go find something more entertaining~” they sing.

“Hold on, come back here, you two? Why are you suddenly being so uncooperative?” Tamaki demands.

“Well, we thought there’d be an interesting secret reason they’re fighting; this is just lame.”

“So Honey-Senpai and Chika’s feelings aren’t excited enough?!” Tamaki snarls.

Honey approaches them calmly, “It’s okay, Tama-chan. Really.”

You let out a soft breath, “But, Honey-Senpai…” You begin.

“It’s alright. Don’t worry about me. So what if Chika-chan hates me? I would be happy just seeing him grow up to be strong and healthy. He is my brother, after all.”

The twins appear at his side, confused, “Um, he’s already a lot taller than you, Honey-Senpai.” Kaoru reminds.

“Yeah, he’s pretty grown up and plenty healthy.” Hikaru scoffs.

“'Scuse me, could you guys please keep it down?”

You nearly jump out of your skin as Chika appears near you, yelping and flinching into the nearest person- which happens to be Kyoya.

Chika readies himself into a sparing position, “What’re you doing here? I thought I had told you to stay away from me at school, Mitsukuni!” Chika lunges toward Honey immediately.

Honey almost gives him no reaction save for the leg he gently lifts to block his brother’s attack, much more at ease than Chika.

“You alien… would you just leave me alone?” Chika scoffs disgustedly, Honey’s brows furrowing with hurt.

“But, Chika-chan…”

“Reconsidering the child abuse threat.” Your brow twitches in frustration.

“What’s he mean, 'alien’?” The twins turn to each other in question.

You groan, “Just because your older brother’s stronger than you doesn’t warrant any name-calling.” You cross your arms, earning an almost guilty look from Chika.

“Yeah. Why are you so upset about cake and stuffed animals.” Tamaki voices behind you.

“Well, if it was just about the cake and stuffed animals, I would never have said anything…” Chika relents his fighting stance and rises back to full posture.

“Let’s get this straight; I didn’t call my brother an alien because he’s stronger than me…” Chika’s fists clench in on themselves.

In one motion, Chika points an aggressive, trembling finger to Honey, “Have any of you ever seen him devour an entire cake?! Don’t tell me you guys think that’s perfectly normal! He has three whole cakes every night for dessert! Seriously, three cakes a night! And he never gains weight!” Chika hollers, trembling with anger.

You deadpan, arms falling limp to your sides, “So he eats that way at home as well… if only we all had that metabolism.” you grumble.

“And then something crazy occurred last week. I happened to wake up in the middle of the night… and I noticed that the night was on in the dining room.”

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Chika follows the sliver of light emitting from the dining room, peeking through the doors cautiously, “What’s going on? It’s the middle of the night, you know.”

Surrounded by tiered cakes, Honey and Usa-chan acknowledge Chika’s presence, the candles casting strange shadows on his face, “Hey, Chika-chan~.”

Chika seizes up tensely, trembling.

“I’m glad you’re here. Once a week, I have a special cake night where I eat all the cake I want. Usa-chan here helped me come up with the idea. Would you like to join us?”

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“C'mon, be honest… you know there’s no way that a regular human being can eat that much cake! Aren’t you terrified?! I bet he gets signals from his home planet through that weird bunny of his! Why can’t you see that he’s an alien?!”

The Host Club only awards Chika with vacant, unfazed expressions.

“That… doesn’t seem too out of the ordinary for Honey-Senpai.” You shrug dismissively.

“It makes perfect sense.” Kyoya voices from above you.

Chika turns, glasses glinting off the sunlight, “I don’t know, though. There was a time when Mitsukuni and I got along really well. While it’s true that my brother has always had a fondness for cute things and more of a sweet tooth than I have, I still respected his ability to avoid that stuff even though he loved it. And then this idiot came along and brainwashed him with some ridiculous nonsense. Something about acknowledging who you really are and just being yourself, that that’s true strength.”

Your heart drops through your stomach and falls right out of your ass at his assessment. Your eyes grow wide and let out a soft noise as Chika falls to his knees in despair.

“Not long after that, he fell apart and became the alien he is today!”

“Oh, boy…” your hand trembles as you gnaw on your nails anxiously.

“Oh, I see, so all of Chika’s troubles can be traced right back to you, y/n.” Kyoya declares in his monotoned voice.

“What the hell are you talking about? I didn’t mean to! Come on, we have to be able to fix this.” you whine, frantically thinking of a solution.

Mori places a firm hand on Honey’s shoulder, “There is a way to solve this, you know.”

You perk up, excited, “You figured it out?” You gasp, hopefully.

“So, Mitsukuni, you know what to do.” Mori nods gently.

Honey faces Chika, “Listen, Chika-chan, I never meant to upset you. I didn’t know that you hate sweets that much, and I’m very sorry.”

You sigh disappointedly, “He completely missed the point.”

“You could say that again.” Kyoya deadpans from beside you.

“Nobody can make me change who I am, and I’m really grateful to y/n-chan and all of the host club because they’ve shown me that.”

Your heart warms, and you place a hand on your chest, “Well, I don’t feel as bad, now.” you chuckle lightly.

“And you shouldn’t.” Kyoya places a steady hand on your opposite shoulder from behind, flooring your body with warmth as your heart flutters.

“So, let’s settle this like men in the Haninozuka style, Yasuchika.” Honey glares intensely.

Chika’s eyes narrow at his challenge.

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You glance around at your surroundings, watching as stray leaves flow through the intense breeze across the open field. “Since when does Ouran have open fields like this?” You question quietly.

“Pay attention.” Kyoya gently nudges you by your shoulder, and you return your attention to the fight between brothers.

“And don’t forget, Chika-chan, this is a one-point match.” Honey reminds.

“So what happens if I win?” Chika inquires, gaze narrowed at Honey under his windswept fringe.

“If you win, I’ll stop eating cake in the middle of the night.”

You scoff, “That’s all?” You groan exasperatedly.

After a moment of silence, Chika nods, “Alright.”

“And he’s okay with that?” You gesture indignantly to them.

“Indeed.” Kyoya sighs, thoroughly unamused.

“Are you ready for battle, men?” Mori asks from the sidelines where the rest of the club watches.

“Then… you may begin!”

You shiver at Mori’s volume, clutching onto Kyoya’s sleeve, “Wow… Mori-Senpai is intimidating.” you acknowledge breathily.

Kyoya follows your line of sight to Mori, unwavering. He puts his arm around your shoulder and brings you closer to him. You yelp at the pull, glancing up at him, but his gaze isn’t on you.

From the corner of his eye, Kaoru catches the movement and turns to face the two of you, brows furrowing at your proximity. He quietly nudges Hikaru and subtly cocks his head in your direction, indicating for Hikaru to follow his gaze.

Hikaru turns to see you pressed against Kyoya’s side, face contorting in confusion and then to annoyance, “Why are they acting like that?” He grumbles. Kaoru watches his brother’s expression, shrugging.

“Who knows?”

Meanwhile, the brothers begin off similarly to their fight before, but the roles seem to be reversed.

When Honey pulls out a metal rod, similarly to Chika earlier in the day, Tamaki seems to notice, “Is it just me, or is this fight turning out exactly like the one they had earlier?”

“Yes, but this time their roles are reversed,” Kyoya observes.

With arms crossed, Mori pipes into their conversation, “Mitsukuni’s already planned how this entire fight will pan out. Yasuchika will attack with the shuriken any moment now.”

Chika tosses the shuriken toward Honey, but Honey expertly blocks the attack with his metal rod.

“Whoa, he called it!” The twins gasp.

“Um… Mori-Senpai? Where do they hide these shuriken?” Haruhi sweat-drops.

Mori intentionally ignores her inquiry, “I have been watching these two brothers spar for many years, and it didn’t take long before I noticed that in every match, Yasuchika incorporates moves the Mitsukuni used in the previous match. Mitsukuni realized it as well and he always tries to give his brother the opportunity to practice those new techniques. He may call him an alien, but as far as martial arts are concerned, Yasuchika has a deep respect for Mitsukuni and his abilities. I think all he really wants is to be like his older brother. They are connected just as two siblings ought to be. And personally, I think a little sibling rivalry is perfectly normal.”

Your jaw has fallen slack at Mori’s long-winded tirade, arms fallen limp at your side.

Mori lifts his head, “There’s no need to worry about the outcome of this match; I can already tell you that Mitsukuni’s planning to throw this fight and let Yasuchika beat him. Trust me, I know everything there is to know about him.”

You almost begin pondering the meaning of life, turning your attention blindly back to the brothers as you process the number of words Mori just spoke.

“Defend yourself!” Honey cautions, completely demolishing his brother with a single kick.

A moment of tense silence passes, and the club realizes that Mori was wrong. He hums defeatedly, almost in disbelief.

“Yay! I’m the winner! Cake! Cake! Cake!” Honey cheers, leaping into the air with a grin.

He picks up Usa-chan and swings him around excitedly, “I have an idea! Since I won, I think we should start having special cake night three times a week!”

Meanwhile, Chika lies defeatedly on the ground, glasses completely shattered, muscles twitching. He’s soundly beaten.

Mori kneels defeatedly, motionless, also soundly beaten. You grimace from the sidelines by Kyoya’s side. The idiot trio cheers him on.

“Don’t let it get you down, Mori-Senpai.” Mori groans.

You simper fondly, softly humming as you turn your attention to Honey, celebrating himself.

“So, Honey-Senpai’s love of cake exceeds his love for his brother, huh?” You chuckle.

Kyoya smiles slightly, nodding, “It does seem that way.”

“Wow… he’s a horrible person…” You snicker jokingly. Kyoya merely chuckles, affectionally ruffling your hair, shaking his head.

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The sun disappears behind the horizon as Honey sits atop the roof of the school. Usa-chan’s ears dance softly in the breeze as Honey clutches him close to his chest.

“I personally believe that true strength is having the courage to come into your own… to be yourself even when the opposite is expected of you. Putting on a facade seems just the same as running away.”

Honey hums fondly, closing his eyes happily as he nuzzles close to Usa-chan with a giggle, “I love you~!”

I run and run a thousand miles, and I am barely breathing. Only the fuel of a passionate heart keeps this body strong and moving forward.

Could it be I found a place to rest? How far until I’m OK?

Trees of the town reveal the time has come once again to shift our shade and colors.

The world always changes around us but weakness will always remain;

Through all the pain, believe in who we are right here and now!

Raise one hand to the sky; raise them both lift them high!!

And you’ll cut through the darkness make it go!

The time to start is now! And I can show you how.

Start with me, and the world will be even bigger than ever before.

♡Next time, on Indeed…♡

You seem to have been kidnapped by your former Lobelia classmates! Don’t worry though, nothing stands in Kyoya Ootori’s way…

♡We’ll see you then!! ♡

want to read more? here’s my ouran masterlist

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have any questions? talk to my characters!

Adieu~

Royal Pain

➼ pairing: kyoya ootori x royal!reader (requested)

➼ summary: you’re the daughter of the King of the UK, which makes you a princess. although, kyoya seems to be the one acting royally

➼ word count: 9.7k

➼ what to expect: “So, Kyoya, what do you say? Will you join me?”

➼ warnings: fluff, angst, pining

➼ i apologize thoroughly for anything culturally depicted that might be incorrect. if you see something wrong, shoot me a message

➼ the allusion i make from The Woman in the Purple Skirt is from a novel about a woman who stalks her neighbor in order to strike up a friendship- just so you have that context when i use it

“Did anyone else hear that the King of the United Kingdom has a daughter, and she’s going to be starting here soon?”

Haruhi’s question has the entire host club and their attention placed on her.

“That’s not funny, Haruhi.” Tamaki pouts after a brief moment of false excitement.

“I’m not joking; I’m serious. I heard she’s amazing.” Haruhi shrugs, continuing with her schoolwork.

“Why would the princess of the United Kingdom be starting at Ouran Academy in Japan?” Hikaru questions from his position next to Kaoru on an otherwise empty loveseat.

“Yeah, that’s, like, 16 hours by private plane.” Kaoru voices.

“Beats me.”

“Kyoya, why didn’t you know this?” Tamaki peeks over Kyoya’s shoulder as he writes diligently in his notebook.

“I did. But, I didn’t think it was of any importance, so I disregarded it.” Kyoya shuts his notebook promptly as Tamaki’s eyes land on the pages.

“Not of any importance?!” Tamaki fusses, “Why wouldn’t a true princess joining our school be important?” he stamps his foot childishly.

“What kind of royalty would want anything to do with our host club?” Kyoya scoffs.

“How could you say that Kyoya?! Do you hate this club? What kind of royalty wouldn’t-”

“Here we go again.” Kyoya rolls his eyes as Tamaki starts on one of his usual tirades and adapts to the sound as if it were white noise.

“I think it was strange that you didn’t tell us, Senpai.” Haruhi wanders over in Kyoya’s direction as he glances up from his work.

“She is going into your class, after all.”

“How do you know these things?” The twins huff in perfect unison with each other.

“It’s all over the news. At least for commoners.” Haruhi grumbles, miffed.

“A princess? In our class?” Tamaki quickly recovers from his annoyance with a dreamy gasp, clasping his hands together with an elegant twirl.

“How regal, how wonderful! We must get to know her, Kyoya.” Tamaki begs, practically bouncing on his toes as he perches himself at Kyoya’s table.

“Do as you will.” Kyoya sighs.

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If you hadn’t chosen to adhere to Ouran’s female student uniform and you were given the option to do so, you would stand out like a sore thumb.

Although… walking around the school with two highly decorated men doesn’t exactly allow you to blend in, either. Your father has sent you to Japan with a multitude of servants and guards to go along with the luxurious estate you’re living in while you’re attending school.

You are eternally grateful, but you wish you didn’t have two men at your heels following you wherever you go… people know immediately who you are in the hallways.

You have, although, heard of the elite club that resides within an abandoned music room. The Host Club does indeed pique your interest. You have noticed several girls going in with high hopes and coming out with content smiles and satiated needs. You have to get a look for yourself.

You try your best not to make an entrance… but with two guards in tow, it’s hard not to.

Before you can reach for the door, your men behind you reach forward simultaneously and pull them open. You roll your eyes exaggeratedly as they resume their positions behind you.

You’re met with a blinding surge of light and a flourish of rose petals in its wake.

“Welcome.” You’re greeted by seven boys dressed in their school uniforms.

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Royal Pain

You nearly splutter, swatting at the remaining rose petals fluttering near your face as you get a better look at the group of boys. They each sit or stand neatly poised around each other. The blond in the middle’s expression seems to drop shockingly, but only for a mere moment before he regains his composure.

“Welcome, princess. And I mean that in a literal sense.” he’s suddenly before you, your hand cradled in his as he presses a chaste kiss to the back of your hand. You can feel a blush creeping up your neck as you smile.

“Well, aren’t you something?” you chuckle, flustered at his show of flattery.

“My name is Tamaki Suoh; some call me the King of the Host Club… but in your presence, I’m nothing but a mere commoner.” he bows, kneeling to the floor in a swift motion.

You can’t tell if Tamaki’s just charming or genuinely friendly. So you’ll give him the benefit of the doubt for now.

“Allow us to treat you to a cup of tea and good company during your visit to our humble little club.”

You wave your men off behind you to stand elsewhere, always watching, as Tamaki gently guides you to an empty table and pulls out your chair like a gentleman should.

“Please, Suoh, you mustn’t be so formal with me. I’m not the daughter of the Emperor of Japan, just the United Kingdom. Technically, here, I’m of no royal power.”

Far off in the distance, Kyoya scoffs, scribbling in his mysterious little black book.

You are, of course, not deaf. Your eyes shift, and in your peripheral vision, you find the boy with calculating eyes, jet black hair, thin-rimmed glasses, and furrowed brows. Your eyes return to Tamaki in front of you. Although you show no outward signs of hurt, your smile is replaced with a vacant expression.

You’ve not been to one educational institute where at least someone doesn’t treat you in the very same way. So you hoist your head up high.

“Wow, are you really a princess?” A juvenile voice sounds from beside you. You turn to find a boy, about as tall as your hip, peering up at you with sparkling eyes.

“Aren’t you just adorable?” you coo gently.

“Do you want to hold Usa-chan?” the boy shoves his stuffed rabbit in your direction. You gasp and smile widely, allowing him to place it into your arms.

“Of course, I do.” you cradle his stuffed rabbit with care.

“Look, Takashi! She likes bunny rabbits, too.” He giggles, turning to his taller friend.

This tree of a boy towers before you, clearly in the class above you. And, judging by the lack of honorifics from the more juvenile boy, they seem to be in the same class.

“Nice to meet you.” you bow gently.

The taller boy seems taken aback for a moment before offering you a more profound bow.

“… nice to meet you.” he peers up at you, his gruff voice seemingly often unused.

“Allow me to introduce you to Morinozuka-Senpai and Haninozuka-Senpai!” Tamaki gestures to the pair. You smile admiringly.

“The pleasure is all mine.” you nod politely.

“We just call them Honey-Senpai and Mori-Senpai.” Two boys with ginger hair, looking completely identical, arrive by your sides.

“Now, am I seeing double?” you tease, looking back and forth between them.

“Meet the twins… Hikaru and Kaoru.” Tamaki groans, upset as they’ve stolen his spotlight.

“Might I ask which twin is which?”

The twins chuckle, switching back and forth between each other with impish grins, “Well, princess-”

“-we could tell you, but that wouldn’t be any fun-”

“-now would it?”

You giggle, finding them immensely charismatic, “Keep me on my toes, then.” you shrug playfully.

Just as the twins settle on a sofa beside you, a girl with an adorable pixie cut sets down a tray of fresh tea before you on the table.

“Here you are, your highness.” She clasps her hands behind her politely.

“Oh, please. Call me y/n. What a pretty young lady you are.” You admire genuinely.

The entirety of the club freezes, tensing at your observation. You quickly read the room, straightening with a slight blush across the apples of your cheeks.

“Have I said something?” you glance back and forth between each member.

“Well, Haruhi’s not necessarily supposed to…” Hikaru begins, unsure of how to finish his sentence.

“… be seen as a girl.” Kaoru finishes apprehensively.

“Oh! God, I’m so sorry-”

Haruhi’s eyes widen, “No, no! It’s nothing like that… I’m just working at this club as a boy… and that’s what everyone sees me as.”

“… I’m a bit confused.” You glance to Tamaki for clarification.

“Our little host in the making is working for us as a male student. So, we would greatly appreciate it if her gender stayed between us here at the club.” Tamaki pleads.

You nod, “Oh, I understand now. Your secret is perfectly safe with me, Haruhi.” You beam bashfully.

“Thank you, your high- I mean, y/n-Senpai.”

Out of the corner of your eye, you can see that boy with jet black hair again. The one who scoffed at your entrance.

“Tamaki, would you humor me a moment?” Tamaki immediately arrives at your side, ready and waiting for your inquiry.

“What’s that lovely boy’s name? I don’t believe I’ve met him.” You ask mischievously.

“Oh! My princess, that’s Kyoya Ootori.” Tamaki gestures to him. You turn your head, vague recognition spreading across your features.

“Ootori?” You stand, gaining his attention promptly, “As in… the Ootori Group?”

Kyoya’s ears perk, turning his attention to you. Finally, he adorns a polite smile, “You are correct, your highness; I’m very pleased that you’ve heard of us.”

You’re no fool to outward appearances. Kyoya’s politeness doesn’t slip past you either. You bow customarily, “The pleasure is all mine. Your family’s hospitals took excellent care of my mother when she fell ill. My family likes Japan for a reason, you know.”

“I’m pleased to hear that. We’re honored to have had Her Majesty in our care.” He bows back just as deeply.

You smirk gently to yourself, and there’s only one thing on your mind now:

You’re going to get to the bottom of this Ootori boy if it’s the last thing you do.

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You continue to return to the Host Club’s company after school hours almost every day. Though, sometimes, when you don’t turn up in Music Room #3, your cellphone is ringing off the hook with Tamaki’s texts and calls to make sure something hasn’t happened to you.

The first few times, you regretted giving out your phone number to the entirety of the club, but you quickly realized that he’s only concerned for you. You’re also grateful that none of them seem to have given out your number for profit or reputation- you guess they each have enough of that, surely.

Your guards have grown accustomed to not accompanying you to school after the first week or so, obeying your whims as you order them to stay behind unless you explicitly need them. Although, they do have eyes on you at all times. You are significant royalty, after all. As the only child of the royal family, you will inherit the throne by default upon your father’s death.

Lost in your daydreams, the twins appear by your side as you sip absentmindedly on your tea.

“So, y/n-Senpai-”

“-have you decided where you’re going to spend your summer?” Both Hikaru and Kaoru wiggle their brows at you impishly.

You chuckle, setting your teacup down on the saucer before you. It’s true that each and every club member has offered you a chance to travel with them across the globe. The twins have offered to treat you to a vacation in the Caribbean, Honey and Mori have offered their company in France, and Tamaki has suggested you join him on a venture to Dubai.

And, as expected, Kyoya hasn’t contacted you outside of the clubroom. Of course, you have the occasional conversation when the other hosts are occupied, but you can barely stand the fictitious, business smile he adorns when speaking to you. You much prefer genuine smiles.

“Actually, I have a counter-offer for each of you.” you hoist your head up high as you make your announcement.

The twins each tilt their heads with curious hums in sync, gaining the attention of the remaining hosts.

“I would love to travel with you all, truly, but I simply cannot be in all of those places at once. So, I have a proposition for you.” You stand slowly, folding your hands before you, adorning the most royal voice you can muster.

“I, Princess y/n, cordially invite you all to spend the summer in the royal castle with me in London… that is, if you’d like.” your voice returns to a shy demeanor by the end of your statement.

“Wah, really? We get to stay in the castle with you, y/n-chan?” Honey excitedly tugs your arm, nearly pulling you down.

“If you’d like to. I could take you on tours of London and Windsor Castle, and we could even throw parties if that is something the lot of you would be interested in.” You smile sheepishly.

Tamaki flourishes his arms, eyes sparkling, “Me? Royalty for the summer? Oh, I couldn’t dream of anything more invigorating!”

“You’re a natural, already.” you tease.

“Yay! Count us in! Right, Takashi?” Honey glances at Mori expectantly.

“Right.” Mori nods with a soft smile.

“Could be fun.” Hikaru shrugs.

“Couldn’t hurt to go.” Kaoru smiles appreciatively.

Haruhi approaches you shyly, “Um, Senpai? I’m sorry, I don’t have a passport…” She gnaws her lip anxiously.

You beam, gently patting her shoulder with reassurance, “Haruhi, you won’t have to worry about that. Under my authority, you’ll have permission to enter Europe.”

Haruhi’s eyes sparkle, “Wow. I’ve never been to another country before. I’ll have to ask my dad, though…” She trails off, her fingers prodding her chin in thought.

You turn to the last member of the club, writing diligently in his notebook, “So, Kyoya, what do you say? Will you join me?”

You outstretch your hand, a beaming smile on your face as you wait for him expectantly.

As Kyoya’s eyes glide up to your facial expression, he’s internally taken aback by the effect your pleading features have on him. He nearly stutters over his breath, clutching his notebook tightly to his side.

After a moment of tensed silence, he regains his fabricated smile. He takes your delicate fingers in his hand, lifting them to his lips without the actual contact symbolically- something often displayed when shaking a royal lady’s hand.

“I would be honored.”

This is going to be the beginning of something… quite interesting.

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“Wow! This private jet is even nicer than ours!” Honey extends his arms, excitedly running back and forth in the aisles of your private jet.

All of your luggage has been stowed for you just moments before. Honey plops down onto one of the luxurious seats, setting Usa-chan next to him and fastening his seatbelt.

Hikaru is next to enter the plane, arms thrown behind his head as his brother follows in pursuit, “I have to say, this is the height of luxury.”

“The decor is fantastic!”

You’re starting to catch the twins’ eye for fashion and all things visual. Of course, you know of their family business, well, their mother’s business after all, but you like to see that they’re taking a liking to it as well.

Haruhi merely stands in the doorway in awe. This isn’t only her first flight on a plane, but it happens to be one of the most luxurious places she’s ever stepped foot in- including some houses.

Kyoya gently slides past her, brows shooting up and quickly falling back down at the appearance.

“What do you think, Ootori? Up to your standards?” You peer up at Kyoya through your eyelashes, hands clasped behind your back.

“Whoa! There’s a king-sized bed back here!” The two of your swivel at two identically surprised voices just on the other side of the jet.

Kyoya nods, throwing you the fakest smile, “Of course, your highness. I’m honored to be aboard.”

Your smile drops as you groan, hands falling limp to your sides in disappointment. Nevertheless, you will crack through Kyoya’s facade; you’re more than determined to accomplish that feat.

“Ah! A private jet fit for a king! I cannot thank you enough, princess.” Tamaki bows before you as he enters the jet door.

You snort, “Just go find a seat, Tamaki.” you chuckle. Then, he leaps to his feet to do as he’s told, trying his best to keep the twins out of mischief while they’re aboard.

“Everyone settled?” The pilot calls. As each club member voices their approval, the pilot shuts the cabin door and secures it tightly.

“Take off will commence shortly; the flight attendants will demonstrate the safety measures as needed.” The pilot offers you a quick bow before returning to the cockpit with his copilot.

As the few flight attendants demonstrate the safety measures uniformly, the hosts murmur amongst themselves. You take a seat beside Haruhi, looking quite nervous and excited, all wrapped into one.

“You’re looking tense.” you fall into the seat beside her, relaxed, and fasten your seatbelt promptly.

“I’ve never flown before… I don’t know what it’ll be like.” Haruhi wrings her hands together anxiously. You giggle, offering her your palm facing upward.

“You can hold my hand if you’d like.” You simper, catching her completely off guard. You giggle at her reaction, sputtering with confusion.

“I’m only teasing. But, seriously, let me know if you need anything.” You nod affirmatively.

Haruhi is utterly baffled by your behavior- honestly, royalty offering to serve her? She never thought she’d see the day.

“I-… thank you. I will.” She smiles sheepishly.

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The entirety of the jet ride goes quite smoothly. Honey falls into a deep, 5-hour nap in the king-sized bed as Mori keeps a close watch on him. The twins spend their time rummaging through the multitude of drawers, cabinets, and compartments, looking for new things to do. Tamaki spends his leisure time trying to fight them off and telling them to sit properly so as to not embarrass him in front of royalty. Again, though, you couldn’t care less. You and Haruhi are engaged in deep conversation for most of the ride.

Though, Kyoya remains occupied with a novel… then another… and he even manages another. He seldom moves from his seat, only to use the bathroom or enjoy a meal… but other than the average human bodily functions, he stays put, unmoving.

You lean briefly over to Haruhi, “So… what’s Ootori’s deal?” You giggle, subtly nodding in his direction. Haruhi shrugs.

“Not sure. He’s usually quite friendly… but then again, who’s to say if he’s faking?” Haruhi groans.

“How do you mean?” You push further.

“I was once stuck in an expo with him… he really only seems to befriend others to gain something from them… honestly, I’m not sure why he hasn’t tried to win you over yet.”

At your expression, Haruhi hurries to clarify her intentions, “No offense, of course… that’s just his way. I think you’re cool.” She grins sheepishly.

“No worries. Curious…” You turn your attention to the ever-elusive man reading his novel.

As you shrug and jump back into your conversation with Haruhi, you conveniently miss the way Kyoya’s eyes glance up from the pages of his book and flit over to your seat. He’s been stealing glances at you the entire flight, thankfully going unnoticed by you. He doesn’t know what’s come over him- he’s suddenly overcome with this overwhelming need to sneak glimpses of your features every now and then- it’s like an automated reflex.

Once again, Kyoya shakes himself from his daydreams and returns to the words on the page before him. He’s been stuck on this page for at least 10 minutes, reading the exact phrase over and over again, and he still can’t manage to comprehend the words- as he’s trying to listen in on yours and Haruhi’s conversation but failing, as the two of you are far too skilled at whispering quietly.

Whatever you’re talking about, Kyoya can tell it’s quite engaging. From the way Haruhi’s eyes sparkle as you speak to her, he knows she’s more than capable of an intellectual conversation, and you seem to be giving her quite the stimulating one.

He can’t help but wonder what on earth you’re talking about- you’ve both been at it for hours. He doesn’t admit it to himself, but he slightly… ever so slightly wishes he could be part of the stimulating conversation. But no, he’ll stay put… it’s not like he wants to be close to you, anyway.

That’s what he tells himself, at least.

Kyoya’s breath all but hitches as you laugh loudly enough for him to hear you over the roar of the jet’s engines. It’s like sweet music to his ears, melodic, angelic chimes blessing his tympanic membrane as he nearly closes his eyes to relish in the sound.

He shakes himself violently awake- what the hell? He quickly immerses himself in his novel and determinedly focuses on the words before him just as you glance over, merely missing his stares.

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As the club stumbles tiredly off the private jet onto the secluded runway, you stride with grace and ease. You happen to glance to the side to find Tamaki offering you his hand to step off the jet.

You sigh with a smile, closing both of your hands over his and leaning down from the stairs to his level.

“Tamaki… I truly appreciate you… but you don’t have to be my personal servant, alright?”

Tamaki smiles fondly, “Sorry, princess… habits and all.” He places one last kiss to the back of your hand as you descend the steps. You chuckle.

Out of the corner of his eye, Kyoya practically scowls. His best friend is quite known for his princely antics, but for some unknown reason, he seems to be unable to tolerate them. He shoves his hands in his pockets.

“Why so tense, Kyoya-Senpai?” Kyoya nearly flinches at Haruhi’s voice beside them as they descend the stairs side by side.

“I’m not tense.” He defensively replies. Haruhi nearly laughs.

“I have a feeling this is going to be fun.” She shrugs innocently, moving to join you at your side.

“Oh, Haruhi! I must show you the room I picked out for you. It’s got two beds so that when I come to visit you, I can sleep over with you. I- I mean, of course, if you want to, that is…”

“Sure, Senpai. That sounds fun.”

It’s painfully obvious that you’ve been devoid of female friends for the majority of your life. The ones that have wanted to befriend you have only enjoyed the benefits of knowing royalty. And, since Haruhi is surrounded by rich, influential people every day of her life, you figure that there’s no reason to assume she’s going to exploit you.

At that, while watching you cling to Haruhi’s arm, Kyoya almost manages a genuine smile. There’s something about watching you be so natural with his friends that gets his heart going. Of course, he’s only met you months prior to this excursion… but when you come around the Host Club’s room just about every day after school (he even has the pleasure of being in a few classes with you), he’s gotten to know you quite well, even if he hadn’t engaged in a deep conversation with you like other hosts had on several occasions.

He prefers to observe you from a distance. He doesn’t entirely trust his voice around you most of the time. And, he’s not always sure of what to say to you exactly. That’s not something Kyoya experiences often. He’s usually well versed in his conversations when he knows what he wants out of a relationship. But… you’re different. Every time you look at him, Kyoya feels his throat close up and go dry- he’s incapable of producing words other than his assorted phrases:

“Welcome, Miss y/n.”

“Your usual?”

“Thank you, I’m honored.”

… like he’s a freaking NPC or something.

Kyoya can sense you growing more annoyed with him by the day, but there’s nothing that can be done.

“You’ll each have your own rooms in Windsor Castle. And, I thought Hikaru and Kaoru might like to share a room, but just let me know, and I can separate you if you wish.”

“Are me and Takashi together?” Honey skips along to your side.

“You can be if you want to, Honey-Senpai. I’ll have that arranged.” You pull out your phone on cue.

“You don’t live in Buckingham Palace?” Tamaki questions with wide eyes.

“Oh,” You snicker, “That’s more of an administrative headquarters for the monarchs; it hasn’t been our official residence for a while. Windsor Castle is much homier, you’ll see.” You place your hand platonically on his shoulder as you’re all escorted to two separate, regal limousines with British flags adorning the hood.

“Cute little flags.” Kaoru admires.

“Those allow us to park anywhere.” You tease, dipping your head in thanks to your chauffeur as he opens the door for you on one of the limousines.

The twins, Honey, and Mori file into one… and that leaves you, Haruhi, Tamaki, and Kyoya to file into the other. Kyoya sighs to himself and crouches inside shortly behind Tamaki.

Kyoya certainly doesn’t miss how you execute everything you do with beauty and regality. He supposes it’s a habit of excellent training.

He only beings to wonder if the expectations on you are as high as his… well, of course, he’s not expected to govern a country in his future, but you’re both under pressure nonetheless.

You fold your hands over your lap and cross your ankles beneath you promptly, sliding your hair over your shoulder as you smile.

“Everyone comfortable? It’s not a long ride.”

“Are those real crystals?” Haruhi gawks, catching a glimmer of light gleam off a glass before her.

“Indeed. Feel free to have a drink if you like. Although, only those of us who are 18 can have this.” You open a cabinet to reveal a travel-sized bottle of champagne.

“That’s alright, I don’t mind.” Haruhi shrugs, seemingly the only one in the vehicle under the age of 18.

“I bet Hikaru and Kaoru are having a fit right now.” Tamaki chuckles as you pour him a shallow glass.

“Kyoya? Might you indulge?”

The drinking age in Japan is 19, so he can’t say he’s ever experienced this before. He finds Tamaki handing him an elegant glass.

“Thank you.” He breathes carefully as you pour him a shallow portion. You nod politely and pour yourself merely a few sips.

“I’ve already arranged for there to be a small party for your arrival. I hope you don’t mind. I have garments prepared for you if you like, but you’re also welcome to wear anything you’ve brought with you.” You begin to sheepishly pick at the hem of your shirt as you explain.

“A party! We’re honored, your highness.”

You wave Tamaki off with a blushing smile, “It’s just for you to meet some people, some of my family, and a few of my friends.” You inform.

Kyoya sips pensively on his champagne, relishing in the smooth feeling of it down his throat.

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“Alright, feel free to explore as you please.” You gesture widely to the entrance hall to Windsor Castle.

“I want to see the kitchen!” Honey meanders off in a random direction as Mori follows close behind.

“What’s with this guy?” Hikaru waves his hand in the face of a stoic guard. He doesn’t move.

Little does he know, that would only encourage the twins further.

Kaoru makes a silly face, flourishing his hands. The guard remains still. He crosses his arms with a pout.

“His hat is… interesting,” Hikaru grumbles.

“Hey, smile!” Kaoru and Hikaru lean toward the guard and flash an obnoxious selfie. The guard barely blinks.

“What’s that over there?!” Hikaru gasps, pointing behind him with a bewildered expression. Nothing.

“Boo. You’re no fun.” Hikaru groans.

“Behave yourselves!” Tamaki whacks them both upside the head.

“Don’t worry, Tamaki. Those guards will never crack. My biggest accomplishment is getting one to sniffle, possibly a laugh, possibly an allergic reaction- who knows?” You shrug.

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So far, everyone has settled in quite nicely to their rooms. Dinner is casual- everyone stops by the kitchen at their own pace to grab something prepared by the chefs. You’re sure that at least one of either the twins, Tamaki, or Honey has gotten lost in the extensive hallway of the castle.

But, you don’t blame them. In your early years, you yourself had noticed getting entirely lost in your own home. But you’ve gotten quite used to it since them.

At night, the courtyard is beautiful. The neatly cut green lawn nearly shimmers with dewdrops in the moonlight at this time of year. You pluck a novel from your bookshelf and swing by the kitchen for an apple, striding along the long corridors until you find yourself in the courtyard.

You half expect everyone to be settling into their rooms for the night, as you were about to do so yourself if you hadn’t noticed the newly unread novel sitting atop your bookshelves. Your handmaids like to fill your shelves every now and then to surprise you with something new. Sometimes it’s a book, sometimes it’s a little knick-knack.

You wouldn’t call yourself an avid reader, but you do have an avid imagination. Books merely aid in that feat, providing you with new worlds to explore when you become incredibly bored at your parents’ next event or anything even remotely political that you’re required to attend.

Your parents are more of figureheads, per se, but you’re still required to attend awfully boring political events for the sake of your beloved country. That’s when your mind likes to wander the most- thanks to the help of the books you read on occasion.

In the midst of your daydreams, you fail to notice someone else sitting on a bench in the courtyard, a book perched in his hands. It doesn’t take but the slightest glance to recognize the mysterious stranger as Kyoya.

“Didn’t expect to see you out this late.”

Kyoya’s so immersed in his thoughts that he almost doesn’t hear you. Nonetheless, he glances up with wide eyes to find you standing over him, hands folded behind your back, swinging from side to side.

“Your highness.” Kyoya bows.

“Please, no formalities needed. What’re you reading?”

Kyoya has to glance at the cover of his book before answering “The Woman in the Purple Skirt by Natsuko Imamura.”

“I haven’t heard of that one. Any good?”

Kyoya merely nods, eyes diverting back down to his book quickly. Even in an evening silk robe and slip-ons- you look divine.

You frown, shoulders slumping.

“I’ll leave you to it. Goodnight, Kyoya.” You sigh, spinning on your heel to head back into the castle, back to your room. Suddenly, you no longer feel like immersing yourself in a fictitious world.

Kyoya watches your figure as you go, hips swaying from side to side as you disappear through an open door. He curses himself- what was the harm with letting you sit next to him and read quietly?

Maybe, that’s the harm. Having you adjacent to him is harmful.

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“Don’t you look princely, Tamaki?” You gush, dusting your hands over his tailcoat.

“Thank you, my dear! I wore the very same outfit to our beloved Ouran Fair… it’s had a few tweaks, of course, thanks your beautiful staff!” He spins for you.

“White is your color.” You nod in approval.

You catch sight of Mori and Honey entering where you’d requested to meet them before the historical ball began. You’d had requests to make it as historical as possible, traditional ball gowns and men’s tailcoats with decorated servants and the like waiting on you.

That was Tamaki’s idea. And no one seemed to oppose it.

“Aren’t you lovely.” you crouch down and pat Honey on the head, who gleams in his tailcoat of baby pink, stood in contrast to Mori in navy blue.

“Usa-chan is all dressed up, too!” Honey thrusts Usa-chan to you, presenting you with his monocle decoration.

“Such a distinguished gentleman.” You tease.

“How do we look?” You turn at two voices beckoning you to them.

You find the twins standing at attention jokingly. You snicker, “Oh, wow. What a vision you both are in… light blue and orange.” You nearly grimace before you realize how beautiful their garments are. Undoubtedly, their mother had them commissioned.

“Your mother’s work?” You toy with the embroidery on Hikaru’s coat, and they swell with pride.

“Yes, they are-”

“-and we designed them.”

“Excellent work.” you chuckle.

“Does this fit me, Senpai?” You find Haruhi fiddling with her collar. You coo, bending down slightly to her height to adjust her garment.

“Yes, it fits you very well. But, I told you, you’re not playing host here- you can wear a dress if you’d like.” You tease.

Haruhi smiles gratefully, straightening her red outer coat, “Thanks, but I’ve been so used to the club attire, this feels much more natural.”

“Suit yourself. You look darling either way.” you pinch her cheek affectionately.

“You look really pretty, y/n-chan.” Honey tugs on the skirt of your gown slightly.

You spin in your gown gently to give the club members a show, your delicately done-up hair staying intact atop your head.

“Thank you. I thought I’d go for a flower theme as well, seeing as all of you seem to be wearing roses.”

Each club member glances down at their suit pockets- an array of pink, dark blue, light blue, orange, red, and white roses.

“Now, we seem to just be missing-”

As if on cue, the set of grand doors gently swing open, and in walks Kyoya, adjusting his coat sleeve and buttoning it to his wrist, seemingly occupied.

You blink owlishly at his appearance. His hair is neatly combed, glasses gleaming, and skin freshly washed. He’s dressed in a stunning lavender tailcoat, gold accents decorating the seams, sporting a white lace, regency victorian era men’s tie. As he adjusts his golden buttons on his sleeve, his eyes travel upward to meet yours.

Your eyes meet in an instant, the world around you falling away into nothingness. Both of you are images of beauty in purple. A picture of grace and perfection. It seems that, unintentionally, you’ve dressed to match each other.

“Looking handsome, my friend!” Tamaki claps a hand on Kyoya’s shoulder and snaps the both of you from your shared trance.

Haruhi seems to be the only one following the tension that’s been created. She wrings her hands together.

You distract yourself, picking up your fan from a nearby table and soothing your burning cheeks.

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“Ladies and gentlemen, dukes and duchesses, I would like to present to you my good friends from Japan: the prestigious Ouran High School Host Club!” You muster your loudest, more royal voice possible to present your friends to the crowd.

You raise a brow as they all stand in a straight line, chests puffed up with pride. You snicker, “Guys, don’t look so stiff.” You wave them off.

The audience breaks into sparse laughter. The hosts smile bashfully and relax their postures a bit.

“They’ll be staying here with me in Windsor Castle until the school year begins again. I hope you enjoy their company.”

Shortly after your announcement, the party commences. You wander between guests and friends, grinning widely at everyone’s voluntary compliance to the theme.

“My, Princess y/n, what fine young men you’ve invited here.” The prime minister’s wife approaches you first.

“Indeed they are.” You peek behind her to find Tamaki bringing a woman’s fingers to his lips to place a chaste kiss atop them.

“They’re practically royalty already!” She giggles, watching how they interact flawlessly with the prestigious guests.

“Aren’t they? Their host club days have trained them well, you know.” You wave dismissively.

“I do have to ask; what is a host club?”

You pale considerably, mouth gaping like a codfish at her question. How could you find a modest explanation of their club activities?

“I- uh… well, it’s sort of like-”

“y/n-chan! Come dance with me. Sorry, madam!” Honey quickly steals you away in your moment of need.

“Uh- excuse me!” You call after her quickly. Honey leads to the edge of the dance floor, reaching up for you with grabby hands.

“Want to dance on my feet?”

“Okay!”

You pull your gown back to your shins enough to reveal your heel-clad feet and gesture for Honey to place his shoes on yours.

Your heels are considerably durable, given that they’re hidden under your gown for the majority of the ball. But, surprisingly, you brace yourself for nothing; Honey is much lighter than you expected him to be.

As you swing to and fro, Kyoya tries his absolute hardest not to glance at you through his peripheral vision, although he’s completely enthralled.

In a strange sense… you’re his woman in the purple skirt, with your gown and all. He only hopes that watching from afar will convey his hopes and dreams. Just maybe…

“What a handsome young man you are. One of those hosts, I presume?” A disembodied voice sounds from behind him.

An elderly woman, dressed in an elegant, decadent, no doubt expensive, gown offers him a charming grin.

“Yes, ma'am, thank you.” He bows politely. The woman waves him off.

“Oh, you flatter me. How is it attending school with the princess, hm?” she gently swats Kyoya playfully on the arm.

“Oh, very enjoyable.” Kyoya nods, folding his arms behind his back.

“It’s a wonder that she keeps her hands off all you handsome boys! You tell me if she’s getting handsy, hm? I’ve known the princess quite a while; I can tell her off if need be!” The elderly woman chuckles.

“That won’t be necessary, but thank you.” Kyoya gently smiles.

“Oh, Aunt Ruth! You won’t believe the chivalry of these young men!” Another woman, younger than the first but nowhere near Kyoya’s age, approaches the two, fanning herself, looking flustered.

“I was just swooned by the two gingers! Quite handsome young men…” The second woman breathes deeply, pulling out an antique fan that matches her gown to cool herself.

“Now, Beatrice, don’t go falling for these young men. They belong to Princess y/n, and they’re only here for the summer.” Ruth rolls her eyes.

“I would never! Besides… I’m far too old for them, anyways.” Beatrice sighs, her eyes finding a quiet Kyoya observing the two.

“Oh! Speak of the little devils… what’s your name, dear?” Beatrice smiles brightly.

“My name is Ootori, Kyoya, ma'am; it’s very nice to meet you.” Kyoya immediately notices her outstretched, gloved hand and brings it to his lips for a gentle, formal peck.

“Well, I’m Beatrice Taylor, Mr. Ootori, charmed. This is my Aunt, Ruth Wilson.” Kyoya pecks Ruth’s hand in turn.

“You are certainly charming. Princess y/n is quite a lucky lady.” Beatrice sips on her drink that Kyoya hadn’t noticed yet, but it seems a bit more plausible when he notices the slightly alcohol-induced flush in her cheeks.

“Ma'am?” Kyoya smiles politely with a worried brow as he’s not sure he understands what she’s implying.

“She means nothing by it, dear, she’s just-”

“Oh, I mean everything by it, Auntie. I mean…” Beatrice leans forward, brushing Kyoya’s arm gently, to which he almost recoils violently. This woman is well old enough to be his mother, if not more.

“Oh, I- I-”

“Beatrice! Ruth! So lovely to see you both. As much as I’d like to stay and chat, Kyoya here promised me a dance, and I believe I just saw my cousin Oliver looking for you both! It seemed quite urgent, frankly-”

And just like his guardian angel, you swoop in, lavender dress and all, gently taking him by the arm and leading him onto the dance floor where couples are swaying together, and the string orchestra is serenading you all.

“Oh, but y/n-”

“We’ll only be a second, Ruth!” You call haphazardly, urging Kyoya to follow you urgently.

“Terribly sorry about them… I had just overheard Beatrice and… I cannot even begin to excuse her behavior; maybe we shouldn’t have had alcohol on the refreshment table. I told the staff not to let anyone over-drink.” You pinch your sinuses, stress creasing your brow.

“It’s quite alright.” Kyoya waves you off dismissively.

“It’s really not, but… since we’re here,” You glance around as you’re amid the dancing pairs, “would you care to dance?”

Kyoya blinks owlishly at your offer, “Sure.” He beams politely, offering you his assumed dancing position for you to position yourself with him.

You beam successfully, placing your hand in his and your other on his padded shoulder. You tense marginally when Kyoya places his hand just beneath your ribcage.

Kyoya’s heart beats a million miles a minute as the pair of you begin your graceful dance.

The twins appear at Haruhi’s side as she observes the pair of you, albeit a bit confused. Hikaru scoffs.

“Kyoya-Senpai looks really uncomfortable…” He grumbles.

“Yeah, looks like he’s gonna be sick.” Kaoru sighs, disappointed.

Haruhi squints, narrowing her vision in on Kyoya’s expression. Her eyes widen to the size of saucers when she vaguely recognizes the expression on Kyoya’s face… although she never thought she’d see it on hisfeatures.

“He doesn’t look uncomfortable. He looks… flustered.”

The twins blink owlishly in sync, “Huh?”

The song changes as if on cue to one of the most elegant pieces you find yourself recognizing- Clair de Lune.

Kyoya’s breath shortens as he realizes that everyone around the two of you seems to just… blend with the background, fade into nothingness, out of sight, out of mind.

He exhales sharply, eyes tearing from your own and glancing down at his feet to find nothing but the infinite universe. He blinks, and the floor returns. His chest feels tight, as if it’s suddenly shrinking in on himself; he finds it hard to breathe.

He’s drawn out of his dizzy daydream by your voice, “Kyoya?” you tilt your head, brows furrowed in concern.

As Kyoya returns to reality, he adorns a trembling smile, “You’ll have to excuse me a moment.” He barely manages to spit out before he’s detaching himself from you and weaving between dancers.

“Wha- Kyoya!” You pick up the skirt of your gown and hurry off after him. He narrowly escapes your vision as he exits the ballroom.

You huff, only left with the mere direction he’d scurried off in as a reference to find him.

Your heels clack loudly in the empty hallway, echoing off the extensive ceilings. You follow the faint sound of his dress shoes retreating ahead of you.

“Kyoya! Please, slow down,” you whine.

Kyoya sighs to himself, stopping in his tracks just as you turn the corner. He can’t bring himself to face you quite yet but listens as your footsteps grow nearer.

“Just help me understand something.” You pant as you grow closer, stopping just a few feet behind him or so.

“What have I done to make you dislike me so? You’ve been much more distant than the rest of the club, and I find it odd. Although I have to admit, I don’t know you all that well, is it something to do with social anxiety?”

You wait for his response, but you get the cold shoulder and a tense back in return, so you continue on your tirade.

“I find myself being perfectly pleasant to you, but you just brush me aside as if I were an acquaintance on the street. I know your ways, Kyoya Ootori; I know that if I was of any value to you, you’d be pursuing a relationship with me by now! How is a princess not of any value to you?”

When there’s no response, you huff, stamping your foot.

“What do you honestly think of me, Kyoya? What is the issue? I can’t fathom why I’ve driven you away like this; you seem like an intelligent person that I’d like to know better, as a close friend-”

Kyoya growls, whipping around to face you so fast that you nearly flinch at his bared teeth and almost pained expression, “You want to know what I honestly think? Why I act this way toward you?”

Your jaw slacks open slightly, “Quite frankly, I do, because I was starting to grow quite fond of you until recently. Why are you acting this way, Ootori? I truly want your honest answer, this time.”

His fists curl frustratedly… mostly with himself and his stupid emotions. He can’t help but swoon over the way your doe-like eyes stare at him expectantly, your irises practically glittering in the moonlight from a nearby window, and your gown shimmering in turn.

Kyoya clenches his jaw, and his mouth works faster than his brain.

Because you look radiant tonight, my dear.

“Because you’re royalty. You did nothing but be born into your family to be where you are, and that wasn’t even your accomplishment! I think you’re an entitled woman, and, frankly, I fail to see the purpose in even trying to be your close friend, let alone acquaintance.”

There’s not a single fiber in Kyoya’s entire being that believes a word of what he just spat out. But he can’t take it back now… not even when his expression softens at the sight of you.

You blink at him innocently, and he’s forced to watch as your stunning, once hopeful eyes begin to glaze over at the depths of which his words have cut into your already fragile heart.

You take a tentative step back, drawing one hand up to your chest as you can feel it physically ache with pain.

You knew it.

“I see.” Is all you manage.

“y/n, I didn’t-”

You hold up a commanding hand to put a very effective stop to his words, and Kyoya shuts his mouth immediately.

“No, I asked you to speak honestly, and you more than did so. I’m perfectly satisfied.” you brush off the skirt of your gown, your expression growing neutral and cold in a mere second.

“I-”

“If our conversation is over, I have a ball to host. Good evening, Mr. Ootori. Enjoy your night.”

And with that, you spin on your heel and disappear around the corner.

And Kyoya is left wondering what this stabbing, excruciating pain in his chest is that he’s feeling. He wonders why… he suddenly cares that he’s hurt your feelings, or worse.

And he wonders why his opinions matters to you.

He’s left in the shadow of the window pane against the moonlight, illuminating the spot where you once stood before him.

Before he can even begin to comprehend anything more, his legs start him on the journey to find you again. He turns the corner, and you’re nowhere to be seen.

Kyoya nods to himself, starting his way to the ballroom, as you indicated that’s where you’d be returning.

But little does he know, you’ve taken refuge in the empty kitchen, seated pathetically on a crate of unopened ingredients, chest heaving with quiet sobs as your shoulders shake.

You have nothing but your own hands to wipe your tears, undoubtedly smudging your makeup with each stroke. But you can’t find yourself caring any less about that.

Part of the kitchen staff enters at that moment, dressed in standard servant attire to fit the evening’s theme. She gasps as she finds you, tiara crooked and all.

“Oh, Princess y/n!” She places a hand over her startled heart.

You gasp yourself, straightening immediately and rising from the crate, attempting to gather yourself.

“Oh, goodness, I’m sorry.” you hiccup, glancing around at your surroundings, sweeping your hands over your gown anxiously.

It takes no more than a glance for her to realize that you’ve been crying, “Dear, what’s the matter?” She hurries for a handkerchief and gently dabs underneath your eyes, although tears continue to spill.

“Nothing, Cadence, just a little… argument, is all.” you smile gratefully, blinking as she cleans up the running mascara over your cheeks.

“With that handsome young fellow? The dark-haired one with the glasses?” Cadence pries innocently.

You sigh, “Yes… that one.” You nod grimly.

“Princess, don’t make a fuss over him. Men are the scum of the earth and deserve to be treated as such.”

You snort, a genuine smile returning to your face, “You aren’t wrong…”

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Meanwhile, Kyoya’s rushing back into the ballroom, and you’re nowhere to be found. You’d mentioned you had a ball to host… but so far, he can find you nowhere hosting.

“Kyoya? Where’ve you been? We lost you for a good while there.” Tamaki claps Kyoya on the shoulder with a chuckle.

“Where’s y/n?” He blurts, searching the crowd for you.

“Hm? y/n? She ought to be around somewhere… but now that I think about it, I haven’t seen her in a while.” Tamaki furrows his brow as Kyoya continues to peer over his shoulder through the multitude of guests.

“Why are you looking for her?”

Kyoya tenses, turning to face Tamaki cautiously, “No reason in particular… just wondering.” He settles for.

Tamaki blinks, expression growing confused as he’s not entirely buying his friend’s excuse… but he’s not feeling the urge to pry into his particular situation.

“Don’t worry, we’ll find her somewhere. She’s bound to show up sooner or later.” Tamaki assures with another comforting hand on Kyoya’s shoulder. He merely nods.

The night continues as if nothing has changed… despite the fact that you only manage to show up to close out the event.

With your head held high, one of the guests taps their glass with a utensil as they watch you clear your throat.

“I want to apologize for my brief absence- I had a matter to attend to. Even so, this wonderful night is coming to an unfortunate end. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves this evening, please… get home safe, and thank you for coming, truly.”

It wouldn’t take a genius to detect the strain, the tremble in your voice, and even your smile when people applaud and you courtesy. Your makeup is much less potent than it was before your conversation with Kyoya.

And then the crowd begins to swarm toward you, shaking your hand, kissing it, bowing, and curtseying. Kyoya weaves through men, women, and other hosts. He can feel the blood rushing through his ears as he grows closer and closer to you. Just as he’s about to reach for your shoulder and you spot him in the corner of your eye-

“Thank you so much for the lovely party, Princess y/n! I quite enjoyed the theme, as did my daughter.” A woman gestures to her daughter, about hip height to her, dressed in an intricate outfit, looking ecstatic to meet you.

“Well, you just might be the best-dressed one here! I mean- wow! Look at you.” you lower to your knees with a dramatic gasp, reaching out to stroke the little girl’s dress with a gloved hand.

“Thank you!” She gasps, glancing at her mother proudly.

“What’s your name, darling?” You take one of her smaller hands between yours with a smile.

“Marie.” she toes the ground nervously.

“I think you look more like the belle of the ball tonight, Marie.” You reach above your head and pull off your small, matching tiara and place it on the crown of Marie’s head, much to her surprise.

“What a little princess. It was lovely to have you here, Marie. Thank you for coming.” You rise back to your feet and fold your hands politely.

“Mum! She gave me her tiara! Does that mean I’m a princess now?” Marie’s mother mouths an exaggerated ‘thank you’ in your direction as the two depart.

“I guess so, darling.” She chuckles.

And Kyoya has the privilege of watching that scene from almost directly behind you. He feels that he has no right to interrupt the interaction before him. He takes a step back, making sure to steer clear of others, and disappears back through the crowd.

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That night, it rains. Droplets pelt the window panes that peer inside your room as you run a brush through your washed, clean hair in a simple nightgown. Thunder rumbles quietly; your eyes aren’t trained on anything, in particular, glued to the floor as thoughts run ramped through your mind.

Meanwhile, Kyoya stares at the same starless sky filled with rain clouds as guilt clouds his mind. His formal ball attire has long been shed, and he remains in a white shirt, laced at the collar like men would have worn in Europe centuries ago… he truly feels like an 18th-century prince pinning over a princess. Romeo pining over Juliet.

He fiddles with his flared sleeves, glasses set on the mattress beside him. Finally, he lets his head hang between his shoulders with his eyes gently shut.

You rise from your bed and set your hairbrush down on your nightstand, spinning on your heel and throwing open the door to your room, scurrying down the hallway. You have to find someone to talk to, or you’ll drive yourself mad.

Kyoya groans to himself, pushing himself to his feet. He shouldn’t sit here feeling sorry for himself like a fool; he should see if there’s any way he can make amends. He shoves open his door and leaves it ajar behind him carelessly as he steps out into the dark, empty hallway and begins his journey.

With the both of you barefoot, neither of your footfalls can be heard clearly as you each hurry along with different purposes.

Although, those purposes soon collide, literally, when neither of you is watching out ahead, turning the corner without caution and each gasping as you run into the other.

“Oh!”

“Ah-!”

All at once, on instinct, Kyoya reaches for you just as you’re falling backward and catches you, one leg extended to keep his own balance along with your weight.

Your noses are mere millimeters apart. Kyoya’s arms hold you steady as your own push gently against his chest. You can feel each other’s breath fanning your faces as you blink, dumbfounded.

Kyoya brings you to stand on your feet and retracts his arms respectfully.

You can’t help your slacked jaw at the sight of him- he looks like every fairytale prince from your books. Slightly disheveled hair, glittering eyes in the moonlight. You’re just now realizing how stunning he is without his glasses.

“I was just… going to see Haruhi.” you finally manage to exhale, gesturing vaguely with your arms.

When he says nothing, you nod to yourself, lips trembling, “If you’ll excuse me.” you move to sashay past him, but Kyoya’s quick to react.

He spins around as you pass him, reaching out desperately to grab onto your wrist, pleading with you to stay.

“I have something to say first.” He nearly demands voice determined. It catches you off guard, and you fall silent.

Kyoya licks anxiously over his lips, his heart and his brain fighting for dominance, but for once, his heart emerges triumphant.

“Youare of value to me.”

Apparently, it doesn’t make much sense to either of you. You cock a brow, thoroughly confused as Kyoya shakes his head at himself.

“I mean- that’s not what I meant. Well, I did mean it, but-” Kyoya sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose exasperatedly.

You nearly let out a snicker, thoroughly amused at the sight of rendering Kyoya Ootori almost speechless, let alone watching him stumble over his words.

“Nothing of what I said to you earlier is true. Not a word. I don’t care… about your position in royalty at all… I think you’re an admirable woman and-… and I-” It’s almost physically painful for Kyoya what he wants to tell you next.

“You what?” You encourage gently. He shakes his head.

“I can’t…” He whispers quietly.

You step forward, closing the distance between your bodies, “Then let me?” You suggest gingerly.

All Kyoya needs to do is nod for you to take initiative. Then, when he does, you rise on the tips of your toes, cupping his jaw in your hand tenderly and prompting him to dip his head, your lips meeting his in a sweet embrace.

Kyoya inhales through his nose deeply, eyes squeezed shut at the moment your lips come into contact with his, one of his hands coming to cradle your hand on his jaw. The other slides to the small of your back, where he knows it belongs.

Unfortunately, no matter how lost you become in his presence, your lungs are screaming fo

➼ pairing: kyoya ootori x reader (established relationship)

➼ summary: you’ve been up late lately watching horror game play-throughs… and sometimes you forget how scary they can be, even if you aren’t actually playing the game. (something so tooth-rottingly fluffy and domestic for y'all :))

➼ word count: 2.7k: tiny, itty bitty drabble :)

➼ what to expect: “… what are you doing here, anyway?”

➼ warnings: blood mentions, descriptions of the horror game: poppy playtime, SPOILERS!, horror themes???

➼ this is based off the fact that i’ve been watching youtubers play poppy playtime wayyyy too much, and i wanted to publish something for you without the risk of forcing myself to write indeed and it not being good quality for you all :)

Pulling your blanket closer to your body, sitting up in the middle of your bed with your laptop placed before you, your eyes are trained intently on the screen before you.

You watch as a (mostly silent) Youtuber walks through the empty, ominous halls of Playtime Co with a blue hand on the left side of the screen and a green hand on the right.

You’ve made it past the horrifying first chapter of the game, where Huggy Wuggy wants to hug you a little bit too hard. How? You have no idea. That chapter was absolutely terrifying, and you don’t know how you’re not scarred for life.

You never thought being chased through the vents of a toy factory by a tall, blue, fluffy creature (with rows and rows of teeth) that looks like a stretched-out Cookie Monster would be so terrifying. But, here you are, watching the second chapter the second the first play-through was released.

Now you’re dealing with a new foe who goes by the strangely innocent name of Mommy Long-Legs, who wants you to complete three games before she’ll give you the code to the train to escape the factory. She’s much less terrifying than Huggy Wuggy, but you’ve heard rumors that her chase scenes are much longer and harder to complete without dying.

The thing about watching play-throughs is that you never know when they’re going to make a mistake and become a victim of the creature chasing them. Although, of course, when you’re playing the game, on some level, you have a clue about when you’re going to die about a split second before it happens because you know you’ve messed up-, but play-throughs… are far scarier.

But they also give you some sort of peace and comedic relief if they’re talking through the game as they go along.

You’ve made it to just after the third game (after a pug/caterpillar hybrid follows you through a round of red light, green light with the addition of a complex obstacle course), where the player escapes through a window and Mommy Long-Legs is on the move after them. You don’t know when she will pop up; you’re on the edge of your seat.

Your blanket is wrapped around your head and pulled tight in your fists over your shoulders. The screen of your laptop creates an eerie glow and adds to the terrifying atmosphere of your dark room.

Little do you know, your boyfriend has arrived at your front doorstep and knocked, summoning one of your maids to let him in.

As your ever-reputable partner, Kyoya Ootori, makes his way down the hallway toward your room where your maid directed him, he nears your cracked door with suspicion.

He’s about to knock when he hears your little shriek and suspenseful music from whatever you’re watching.

“Ugh! I asked you to play fair, and you cheated! I… HATE cheaters!” Followed by what sounds like a hand banging on a wall in anger.

“y/n? What the hell are you wa-”

“AH! I promise I wasn’t cheating, Mommy!” You shriek, grabbing your nearest throw pillow and chucking it at the intruder in the doorway.

“Ow!Mommy? What the hell are you doing?” Kyoya flicks the lights on to reveal you wrapped in your little blanket burrito and ready to throw another pillow in his direction.

“Oh… it’s just you.” You breathe carefully, placing a hand on your heart in relief.

Your video continues to play in the background, “Now… we’re going to play one… last… GAME! It’s called… hide… and… SEEK! … 10… 9… 8…”

“What in the world is this?” Kyoya rounds your mattress and leans over the bed, over you, to get a look at what you’re watching.

The player continues to run down the stairs frantically and proceeds to complete the remaining puzzles. You can feel more chase scenes about to ensue; you just know it.

“Is this that horror game that I told you to stop watching? Based around that doll?” Kyoya groans, rubbing his sinuses under his glasses.

“Yes… but! It’s just so interesting, I couldn’t stop watching.” You pull him beside you on the bed and offer him some of your blankets to watch along with you.

“Oh, wait! Go turn the lights back off first, please…?” You pucker your lip in a pout and give him the best puppy eyes you can muster.

Kyoya’s cheeks flush a light pink, and he quickly rises to turn them off so that you won’t be able to detect it, murmuring a “fine” under his breath.

After having kicked off his shoes, he resumes his position with you on your bed under your blanket and proceeds to focus his attention on your beloved horror game.

“I promise it’s not as scary as the first chapter.”

Kyoya shivers to recall your detailed description of watching someone be chased through a vent by what essential is a hug monster, then recalls the image of the aforementioned ‘Huggy Wuggy’ that chases the player. Why are you into these things…? He’ll never know.

But he must admit, it’s quite endearing that you watch horror games only to scare yourself silly and come running to him. He’s not complaining.

The both of you watch as the player silently makes their way down an ominous hallway after figuring out a code to open a gate. This video, in particular, is a play-through without commentary or the comforting face of a Youtuber in the corner… so it’s much more terrifying.

All of a sudden, chase music sounds through your laptop speakers, and Mommy Long-Legs appears, groaning distortedly as the player quickly turns around and sprints back to the room they came from, figuring out that they needed to grab the bar on the ceiling and hide from the creature as she scuttles along the floor, looking for them.

Kyoya leans forward, appalled, “What is that thing?” He adjusts his glasses.

You pause the video at an opportune moment as Mommy is chasing the player again, her pink, gangly limbs sprawled across the screen as her terrifying smile and blacked-out eyes stare at the player; therefore, the two of you.

“That’s Mommy Long-Legs.” Kyoya’s brows furrow as he scans over her pink face with a mussed-up, plastic-looking ponytail and pink torso and abdomen… strangely resembling a spider but with fewer legs.

“She’s… horrifying.” Kyoya shivers as you scoot in closer to him.

“I know. I love her.” You giggle, pressing the spacebar to your laptop and watching as the chase ensues with suspenseful music and the distant sound of Mommy groaning.

This isn’t nearly as tame as the other game you used to watch people play, Kyoya remembers. What was it again…? Five Nights at Freddy’s? He’s pretty sure that was it. This game is at least 10 times more terrifying, and he’s only watched about 30 seconds of gameplay.

You peek at your screen through your blanket as your cheek is pressed firmly into Kyoya’s chest for protection, jolting as the player fails to grab the bar to pull them away from Mommy as she springs out of the background and catches them. You shriek, burying your face into Kyoya’s school blazer and groaning at yourself.

“Do you want to stop?” Kyoya smoothes a hand over your back and places a gentle kiss atop the crown of your head.

You shake your head, clutching your blanket tighter and returning your attention diligently to the screen.

As the video ensues, the both of you watch as the player pulls an obviously placed lever and the gears in the nearby machine begin to turn. Then, Mommy slides into the room, gaining a wince out of you, and gets her hand stuck in the very same machine. She lets out a blood-curdling scream when she realizes she’s being shredded.

“Oh, god.” Kyoya grimaces. You nod in agreement.

“What have you done?! He’ll make me part of him! You can’t do this to me!” Her screaming becomes distorted as more of her body is consumed by the dangerous machine, oddly enough, with blood spill… although she’s a toy.

“Wow, I can’t watch this.” Kyoya groans, burying his face in your hair for a moment, allowing himself to become immersed in your intoxicating scent.

“It’s over; she’s dead.” You tap his arm gently, Mommy’s torso lying lifeless on the floor. Kyoya peeks up only to find a mechanical, skeletal hand coming out from under a slightly ajar gate to grab the remainder of Mommy’s body and drag it into the darkness.

“Does this only get weirder?” Kyoya glances down at you to see your own mouth open, flabbergasted.

“And the lore continues…” you kick your feet giddily.

“I think I’ve seen enough; we can stop now.” you pause the video and shut the laptop, allowing darkness to flood the room.

You hum as you and Kyoya adjust yourselves against the headboard of your bed, relaxing into each other’s arms.

“… what are you doing here, anyway?”

Kyoya chuckles, “Well, I wantedto simply spend time with you, and one of your maids let me in. I guess you were too preoccupied to answer the door yourself.” He teases, squeezing your shoulder.

“I’m sorry… I’m just so invested. It’s scary, but I love it.” you smile sheepishly, resting your head innocently on his chest.

“I can see that. And I will never understand why, but I guess I don’t have to.” Kyoya simpers down at you fondly.

“Will you stay the night? I don’t think I can sleep alone after that.”

Kyoya rolls his eyes playfully, “And that’s why I advise against it… but I can’t say no to you. But I don’t have any sleepwear with me… I guess I can send for someone to deliver it…” Kyoya reaches for his phone.

“Okay.” you snuggle closer to him as Kyoya shoots a quick text to his servants back home and easily gets an immediate reply; someone is already on their way.

“You know, you should keep some here… and I can keep some at your place?” You suggest quietly. You wait and gauge his reaction.

“Yeah? That’s very domestic of you to suggest.” Kyoya knows exactly how to tease you.

“You don’t haveto-”

“No, I wasn’t saying no. I actually like the idea.” Kyoya reassures just as a maid quietly announces herself in your doorway, presenting Kyoya with a small bag with things he’ll need to stay the night with you.

“Wow, they were fast…” You marvel as he separates himself from you, bows politely to your maid, and shuts your door behind her as she leaves.

“They have their ways.” Kyoya shrugs innocently, placing the bag on one of your chairs and digging through it.

“Are you going to shower?” you sit up in bed and wait excitedly for his answer.

Kyoya glances over his shoulder, teetering a bottle of shampoo in his hand to indicate his intention, “I was planning to if you don’t mind.”

“I certainly don’t mind at all; I love the way your shampoo smells.” You swoon, earning a laugh from Kyoya as he meanders to your bathroom with his products and sleepwear in his arms.

“Well, thank you, I’m flattered. I’m glad you like it because your bathroom will be smelling that way in no time.” He teases.

“I showered before I sat down to watch the video, so I’ll just join you in bed when you’re finished.” Kyoya nods at your statement, disappearing behind your bathroom door with a smile. The sound of running water quickly follows.

You leap from your bed to rummage in the storage boxes hidden away in your closet, finding just the item you’re looking for-

A nightlight that you keep for occasions just like this. It’s very childish in nature, but that’s what makes it feel safe. It’s a soft, baby pink colored rainbow with magenta stars and a smiley face on the cloud near the rainbow’s end. You shove it into the outlet, and it flickers to life.

After about five minutes or so, Kyoya emerges from your bathroom in a cloud of steam as you perched in your bed, hopelessly scrolling social media. He’s in the midst of towel-drying his hair when he notices the pink light in the corner of your room that breaks the darkness.

“… what is that?” he nearly snorts in amusement, cocking his head in the direction of your nightlight.

“My nightlight that will keep Huggy Wuggy and Mommy Long-Legs away.” you grin sheepishly.

Kyoya sighs, “You’re such a child…” He nearly groans, plucking off his glasses and setting them on your bedside table after tossing the towel in your hamper.

“Mmhm, but you love me.” You counter convincingly with crossed arms and a pout.

“Mm. That I do.” Kyoya kneels on your mattress, pecking your forehead, before crawling next to you in bed, dressed in comfortable sweatpants and an old t-shirt he only keeps around to sleep in.

Kyoya may have not started off as a particularly romantic boyfriend. Still, he quickly learned that your love languages are things like physical touch and words of affirmation, no matter how embarrassed you get each time he performs them. He’s more than happy to do so, although he must admit at first it was a bit out of his comfort zone, but he’s fallen into a comfortable routine; it’s become a habit of his.

“You smell clean.” you sigh, tossing your comforter over your body and wrapping your arms tightly around his torso, pressing your nose to his neck with a deep inhale.

“Are you sniffing me?” Kyoya peeks down at you.

You inhale once more dramatically, sighing dreamily, “Yes, I like your scent.” you giggle, sniffing as if you were a dog trying to learn his scent.

“God, you’re a pain.” Kyoya teases, although his actions contradict his words, sliding an arm under your body and wrapping it around your back, holding you close to him.

“Mmhm, tell me more.” You’ve learned how easily you can fall asleep to his deep, tenor-like voice if you try. It can fall into a soft, comforting monotone when he drawls on about his day, and although it was first seen as slightly offensive when you would fall asleep to his voice, Kyoya now knows it’s nothing more than a sign that you feel safe with him.

“Yeah? Tell you more about how you make me worry constantly? And how I have to look after you?” Kyoya teases once more, watching as you nod sleepily.

“Oh, yeah, I love it when you talk like that, baby.”

He snorts, “Okay, I give up. Want me to tell you about my day?” He suggests, running his long, slender fingers through your hair with caution.

“Yeah…” You yawn.

“Alright, then. Today I woke up to that text message from you at about two in the morning last night about how you were craving Italian food. I don’t know why you think I’d be awake at that hour.” Kyoya recalls fondly.

“Mmm.” You hum absently.

“I got caught up on the week’s future homework assignments after school today, though I assume you’ll want to see them before I turn them in prematurely. Honestly, I’d rather tutor you than just give you the answers. But, have it your way. Dinner was casual; I just had the chefs whip something up briefly, very light. I did a bit of light reading before coming to visit you. Oh, I forgot, Tamaki called this evening wondering about arrangements for your birthday party next week. I told him I had it completely under control, but he insisted he must have some input. You don’t mind if he chooses something small… like, say, an activity, do you?”

Nothing comes from you but soft breathing and the occasional hum in your sleep as you adjust yourself. Kyoya continues on as though you answered.

“I didn’t think you would. You’re also so conducive to him… I think it’s endearing. The both of you are.” Kyoya smiles fondly.

Your cheek is pressed to his chest, your mouth slightly ajar, soft puffs of air coming from between your lips. Kyoya exhales shortly in a laugh.

“Alright, I guess you’ve had enough of me. Sleep well… I love you.” His last phrase is quiet.

“… love you, too.”

Kyoya nearly rolls his eyes. Of course, you’d be awake only to say that. But that’s why he loves you… all of you. And he wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Adieu~