Chapter Text
Sitting alone in his dormitory was what Harry does the majority of his time since he stepped foot onto Southampton University.
It’s tedious, mainly because he has heaps of book work to do almost every week. He signed up for it, however. Harry wanted to be a medical caregiver; he planned to be that guardian somebody can depend on with their loved one. He wanted to make the ill feel more comfortable with doctor visits and such; he also wanted a financially stable life ahead of him. So examining and re-composing notes was what he’d been doing, and yes, maybe Harry ought to have set aside time for his mates, but it was hard. Harry was only trying to get comfortable and find a routine that worked, and well, it had been nearly four weeks.
His timetable was all over the place, with morning classes that seem to take up the greater part of the day, to evenings spent preparing for what was to come the next day. He was just mentally fatiguing himself, but it was ok.
On his laptop, Harry was typing away the notes he took amid that morning's lecture. Maybe he shouldn’t be so ambitious and re-write his notes two times over, but he signed up for this. Harry knew when he got to university he needed to crack down on everything and focus on bettering his future. Presently, the only thing Harry needed to work on, besides a decent grade point average, was his friendship with Niall and Ed.
Those two boys have been with Harry through thick and thin, since they were just little lads. Honestly, Harry was quite surprised when they both ended up getting accepted into Southampton. It was quite satisfying to his anxieties, because it meant that he would have at least someone he knew among the masses. Harry had never been great with making new friends, since he'd been so centered around his work more so than anything. Always been a good student, and never got sucked into distractions. Ed and Niall seem to know their routes around his homebody lifestyle, however, and were always convincing him to attempt new things. Harry was just glad they’ve stuck around this long.
The split in halls here at Uni may divide them, but Harry’s just glad he can talk to them in person instead of over the phone. You see, Niall and Harry were situated at Bencraft Hall, and Ed was at Highfield Hall. It’d had been tough, especially when Niall tried to drag Harry out to meet up with Ed to hit up some parties, and Harry hadn’t been coming with. If anything, Ed was coming to him, and that made Harry feel like a shit friend.
A moment later there was a loud noise coming from his door and an all too familiar Irish accent cursing at someone out in the corridor.
“You can come in, Nialler.” Harry shouted, closing his tablet, and concealing it under his bed. Niall came in and let out a huff, crossed his arms, and looked at him.
“You’re coming to this party tonight, Harry,” Niall remarked. “It’s time to break down that barrier and make some friends.” No, just no. Niall knew how essential Harry’s studies were to him, and, well Harry couldn’t bear the cost of going to parties or futile occasions in his first semester. He mentioned both of his mates that the first semester was off limits.
“Again, no,” Harry hissed, crossing his arms. “I made it pretty clear this morning where I’m at on the whole, ‘illicit party schemes’ you attend.” Harry didn’t want to go hang out with a bunch of stoners and drunks. It wasn’t his scene.
“For the love of Pete, Harry. It’s not going to kill you to at least try to come out tonight. I mean, I could use a wingman tonight, since Ed won’t help for shit.” Ah yes, the classic wingman scheme. Niall had this infatuation with a fellow peer that he’d been talking to at these parties, but Harry had yet to meet him. Or see him for the latter. Harry wondered if the guy was even worth it since Niall’s priorities with Uni lay elsewhere other than in his books.
“Just try talking to Ed again. Tell him it’s a crisis.” Harry recommended.
“You’re my best mate though, Harry. Can’t you at least do this for me?” Niall asked, pleadingly, “Instead of being cooped up in your room studying the night away and driving yourself to mental exhaustion.” Well, Niall was making a reasonable point, but either way, Harry just couldn’t abandon his studies. It would not be proper.
“I can’t, Niall. My notes… I have to finish my notes.” Maybe Harry was making excuses, but he seriously didn’t have the energy to party that night. Especially since he’d get abandoned once Niall got sucked into this bloke, and Harry left alone bored out of his mind. Ed would also probably leave Harry to chat up some ladies or get high off his arse with the stoners.
“Notes can wait. We don't have class tomorrow, right?” Niall questioned.
Niall was really making this difficult for Harry to come up with excuses, he really was.
“No, but you know how much I stressed how important studies are to me, I’ll lighten up a little come semester two.” Harry knew that was an empty promise, but at least it was something to get Niall off his back, hopefully.
“You keep making excuses,” Niall said, shaking his head. “I promise it’ll be fun, and your notes will be there when you get back. Hell, I’ll even leave you alone tomorrow so you can study all you want.” He was making this so hard to refuse, Niall’s promising him if he comes with him tonight then he’d be left alone. Harry knows Niall does stick to his word often and maybe he should just go and meet Niall’s love interest.
Harry wasn’t even sure if this was a good idea though, beyond any doubt, the thought of unwinding a little sounded nice, though, and the fact he would be left alone to study all day tomorrow. He knew he should just go and hang out tonight to help balance out his friendships, because if he doesn’t make time for Niall or Ed then he would lose his two best mates, but it was hard. The thought of slipping up after one infraction made Harry nervous because that would be just asking for a snowball effect. Which Harry really couldn't afford.
Harry ran his fingers through his tangled mess of chocolate curls and taking a deep breath. “Fine. I’ll come to your party or whatever it is.” Harry responded slowly, giving him a pained look. “I swear to god if you ditch me, Niall.” Harry scolded, squeezing his eyebrows together. Harry wished he could get out of this, but he could try to at least have a decent time tonight for Niall.
“Relax. Don’t be so cheeky, you’ll have fun. Meet new people and who knows, maybe you might meet a cute bloke.” Niall teased, and Harry just swatted the air to that.
The last thing Harry needed to think about was boys or anything to do with the whole dating thing. He didn’t have time for it, nor the motivation to hop into a relationship. When it happens, it will happen.
“Anyway, I suppose I could leave you alone to your mundane activities, until later, when I come get you when the real fun starts.” Niall informed and grinning afterward.
“Alright, Niall,” Harry replied, in a sharp tone.
Niall shook his head, and soon he was out the door, leaving Harry alone and wondering why he even agreed. Harry shouldn’t have caved in, but being the good friend that he is, he got sucked into saying yes.
Of course.
When it rolled into the evening hours after Harry spent as much of the day as he could studying, Harry was trying on different garments. He didn’t have much, yet he wanted to look somewhat nice. Not that he was trying to impress anyone or anything, he just had certain standards, not because of the possibility of cute blokes being there.
“Short sleeve button down or basic long sleeved Henley?” Harry asked himself in his full-length mirror, putting the bits of clothing up to his bare torso. He’d been staring at his reflection for the past half hour, wondering what the hell he was going to wear. Garments were heaping into piles around his bare feet, and Harry was having a mini crisis.
This was such a task, and Harry was about to message Niall to cancel all plans, just because he couldn’t pair a fucking top to his skinny dark wash denim trousers. This was a nightmare, and he also wasn’t sure how he was even going to style his hair, or what cologne to put on. Okay, so maybe Harry was putting way more effort into this than he originally planned. However, it was his first real outing since he’d been at Uni. Harry didn’t want to be known as a slob or anything, he cared only enough to give off the impression that he had his life together.
Harry finally settled on the button up and slipped it over his head. He was also not too sure if he wanted to wear his hair up in a bun, wear it down, or wear sunglasses as a headband. Such a stressful task.
Harry squeezed his lips together and felt a snugness in his chest thanks to this nonsense. He eventually just decides to screw it, wear his bloody hair down and forget the rest of the details. This was good enough, it’s not like he had to dress to the nines or wear anything extravagant to a ball or something. It was just a casual party, and there was no need to worry about what to wear or anything, for that matter.
“Harry!” Niall hollered, pounding at his door before just barging right in without even getting the ‘okay.’ Typical.
“It’s a mess in here,” Harry rolled his eyes at that more than palpable statement.
“Clearly,” Harry said.
“Lighten up.” It was getting hard just to ‘lighten up,’. “I'm guessing you’re taking the party a little more serious now that your room is a complete pig sty.” Niall teased with a chuckle. “Not that it’s a bad thing, just glad to see you put effort into it is all.” Harry didn’t know what kind of effort Niall thought he put into it; he would just love to know.
“Anyway, when are we leaving and when can I finally meet this boy that you always talk about?” Harry asked, slipping on his shoes, and getting his essentials for the night.
“Soon, and we’re walking to Ed’s hall and then his friend Nick is giving us a ride to the private accommodations.” That all sounds excessive, for Harry’s liking. They were hitching a ride with Ed’s mate, and that didn’t settle well with Harry.
This guy could be a murderer in disguise, for all they know.
Why couldn’t the three of them arrive alone without any followers?
Harry just shook his head as they ventured out to walk for a while as the night cast over. Niall talked his ear off about this boy for nearly fifteen minutes. From how gorgeous the guy is, to what a barney badass he is. Saying he's in the Fashion and Textile design program of year three. Apparently, this guy was into the whole smoking and drinking scene, oh, and not to mention that he’s more than likely a fuckboy too, and Harry was kind of worried for Niall’s sanity.
He didn’t want to shoot down Niall’s hopes, though, he never would.
Harry could genuinely tell Niall liked this bloke because the way Niall was always talking about him with an accompanying blush. Harry just wished this bloke was worth it, and that he would not be a walking heart breaker. Niall didn’t deserve that, he deserved the best.
“You must really like him,” Harry mentioned, shoving his hands into his pockets as he strolled along the walkway with Niall. “What’s his name, I think I forgot to ask.” Harry kind of felt bad that he never got a name from Niall. From past experience, Harry was always the first to know everything, because Niall would gush to Harry about all these guys he’s liked, to his ex-boyfriends, before they were his exes. It was probably because Harry's been so sucked into his own little world, and thus felt awful.
“Harry, I’ve told you millions of time already. Obviously, you weren’t listening.”.
“Not my fault you talked to me when I was hammering out book work, you should have known better,” Harry retorted.
“Yeah, yeah, yeah.” Niall sighed, “His name's Zayn.”.
“Now that I know his name, I just need to see him up close and read his ‘I’m out of your league’ radar.” Harry jested. He felt a hard fist collide against his arm, and yet Harry just smirked.
“Looks like I’m not the only one who needs to lighten up.” Harry teased with a grin. “I’m only giving you a hard time; I’m sure you're more than qualified to date him, Niall,”
“Let's just hope he likes me back, and then you would be one hell of a wing man,”
Harry doesn’t know why Niall thinks he will make one hell of a so-called wing man when himself never been lucky in the whole, dating department. He’s only ever had two boyfriends. Needless to say, those two blokes didn’t even last a month, because, apparently, Harry was too much of a prude. That was not really the case, but whatever, it was their loss, as Harry was not going to give up his constant streak of abstinence to the only lay in bed with the wrong bloke; he was much smarter than that. Harry was waiting specifically for the right guy, and, well, call him uptight, but that’s how it was.
Harry kept to himself after that comment as they continued on their way to Ed’s dorm, because his mind got all filled with his stupid past dating experience and why he’d been single. His academics were way more important, and the last thing he needed to do was sacrifice his precious time to spend with some guy that could waste everything away. Despite Niall’s, Ed’s and his mum’s wishes on him meeting someone, Harry was fine with being single. It’d been better off that way.
Luckily, it didn’t take too much longer till they were in Ed’s building, as they made their way down the long corridors filled with students, and eventually found the door they need. Ed’s hall wasn’t that bad, substantially more students among the halls; part catered rooms, which were probably really nice compared to what Niall and Harry had, and not to mention that a lot more seemed to be going on. It was not so quiet here though, and Harry was just glad he picked out the right hall.
Harry knocked on the door three times until the door swung open, Ed stood there already ready to hit the road with some guy standing beside him. Some guy Harry’s never seen before, but Harry wasn’t too surprised, since they more than likely probably won't ever cross paths again, depending on their area of studies. Not to mention the fact that he looked a little older. Maybe a year three student or four, if that.
“Harry, glad to see you finally cut away from the books, mate,” Ed mentioned moving to the let the two of them in the room.
“Yeah, be happy Niall persuaded me properly, or else I wouldn’t be joining.” Harry crossed his arms.
“Well anyway, this is my friend Nick.” Ed mentioned, nodding to the guy beside him that looked a little older than the rest of them. Stylish, quite handsome, and Harry’s sure he’s seen his face before around the grounds at some point in the past few weeks.
“Hello, name's Nick Grimshaw,“ Nick held out his hand.
Harry's eyes darted down to his hand for a minute before taking it and shaking it delicately. Well, at least Nick’s proper.
“Harry. Harry Styles,” he told Nick, then moved his hand to runs his fingers through his hair. “You look a little old to be a year one student,” Harry commented and Nick just laughs.
“I’m a year four in the natural sciences program. Last year here, thank heavens.” Nick answered, and Harry just nodded. “So, since I take it you’re a year one, you have a lot to learn tonight, young Harry.” Nick teased, and Harry just rolled his eyes.
“I’m nineteen, not a child.” he snapped back, and Nick quirked a brow.
“Alright, alright, enough. Harry relax.” Niall cut in and patted him on his back. “You need to chill out and make friends not enemies. Sheesh.” Niall said, and it’s not Harry’s fault. Harry put his guard up because it’s better for him. He can be quite sensitive, and when Harry gets shoved off or anything along those lines, he takes it personally. So making new friends was quite hard for him. It’s mainly a trust issue other than certain things.
“Any who, how about we head out then,” Ed mentioned and Niall and Nick nodded, but not Harry. His hands just dropped to his sides as he followed them into the corridor. Harry was quiet when they passed fellow students meandering about, hearing Ed and Nick’s intricate conversation about some bloke that Nick’s friends with. That is apparently the biggest arsehole ever. Sleeping around like it a free meal and smoking marijuana like it’s a necessity. To Harry’s own opinion, he sounded like a dickhead, and he hadn't even met him.
Nick was saying something about this friend that hooked up with so and so and then slept with a different person the very next day. Then onto that one time when was high as a kite for almost two days straight because he ate more than two pot brownies. Needless to say, Harry knew to stay away from this guy for sure. This guy sounded like trouble, to be honest.
When they got to the car, Harry got into the backseat with Niall, and kept to himself once again. The car was a snug fit in the back considering his tallness, but it worked. What compensated for it was the tunes that Nick turned on. Nirvana always seemed to make any car ride bearable, and he was just thankful that there was someone else to enjoy great taste in music with.
Harry mainly looked out the window as they headed down the street, taking in the verses and melodies from the song Lithium. Maybe it eased him a bit, however, he was feeling sort of apprehensive about the party. Being around all those new faces and getting out of his comfort zone tonight was going to be tough, but he was sure he’d be okay. Just the whole making friends thing probably won’t happen. Never had been his strong suit.
Like what happened at Ed’s dormitory with Nick, for example.
So tonight would be a real challenge.
Harry watched as they passed all the lit up buildings and bungalows. He hoped and prayed that the night goes by fast enough, because he wasn’t sure how long he’d last. More than likely, Harry would be off alone sitting on a couch, sipping on iced water, and eavesdropping on drama around him. Like witnessing a failed hookup to someone making a complete fool of themselves.
The car suddenly had come to a stop in front of a house and Nick cutting the engine shortly after. Oddly enough, the house wasn’t even lit up, for one, and secondly, there were no other bloody cars around.
What was going on?
“Follow me,” Nick instructed, glancing back at the two boys in the rear view mirror. Harry felt kind of uneasy, to be honest. Hopefully, this wasn’t like a trick, and they’re not going to get jumped or something, If they do, then those fools are out of luck. He only had a tenner on him, and the rest stored in his lock boxes under his bed.
Harry followed Nick and his mates down the empty sidewalk; street lamps were illuminating the way, and cars parked were becoming more frequent around them. Harry noticed that the silhouettes of people were in the shadows when they got closer, and the sound of faint music blaring got louder with each step. Nick must have parked far, because of either parking purposes, or the fact he didn’t want anyone tampering with his vehicle. Thank God the Uni neighborhood felt safe at night.
They started passing through people, men and women, around their ages, chatting about the party. And the boy hosting the night’s main event, went by the name Liam. Harry wondered if he’d see any familiar faces from his lectures or anyone he’d frequently seen on campus. It was possible, but he was pretty sure it wouldn’t be very likely.
Harry followed the boys up the swarmed walkway into the house, the first thing that hit Harry was that God dreadful stench. Weed.
He maneuvered through the people quickly, since the scent made him feel quite ill, and he noticed that it was much stronger when he got closer to the stairs. So he definitely made a note not to go up there, unless he had too. Which would never be because he didn’t want a damn contact buzz.
Nick led them to the crowded kitchen, and Harry noticed some guys chugging down cans of beers and then proceeding to put away yet another. A girl sipped on her drink, and she looked like she was trying to be sexy and seducing, yet Harry didn’t think it was very attractive. Then there’s the lad who set down a tray of brownies that Harry knew had to be tampered with, He’s not that dumb. Harry felt like he wasn’t going to survive, after what he’d witnessed so far, and he’d only been there for a minute.
“Zayn! My man, we made it!” Nick shouted as they drew near the notorious guy Niall fancies, wearing a leather jacket. This guy was gorgeous, maybe a little too gorgeous, but, then again, Niall always had a thing for model like beaus. Zayn’s a pretty boy covered in countless tattoo’s and his dark hair perfectly styled in quiff. Scruff and a nose piercing complementing his face. Cigarette tucked behind his ear and he has a Motley Crue band top that says girls, girls, girls on it, peeking out of his jacket. Zayn has this cool aurora about him. From his grungy attire of ripped tight trousers and combat boots, he has everything paired together as if he planned it out the night before. Zayn seems very into his looks which Harry's not surprised when it comes to Niall’s picking. Harry just observed the way Zayn’s eyes landed on Niall, and a smile crept onto his face. Especially when Zayn pulled him in for an embrace that looked somewhat more than inviting.
“Zayn, I want you to meet my friend, Harry… he’s bit of a recluse.” Niall smiled and nodded to Harry. Zayn put his hand on Niall's hips, licking his lips, and giving Harry a smile.
“I don’t believe I’ve seen you around before. You start late?” Zayn asked, and Harry shook his head.
“No, I’ve just been putting my studies before anything else,”.
“Fair enough,” Zayn replied. Harry noticed Zayn’s hand on Niall’s hip, and wondered if they’ve already went passed the friendship phase. Zayn’s awfully touchy, and Harry hoped he wasn’t treating Niall like some rag doll, then tossing him away when the next best thing comes along.
Just like Harry expected, Niall was led off by Zayn, who put his arms around his shoulder and vacated the area. Leaving Harry with Ed and Nick, who seem to be in cahoots’ and cracking open beers. Harry gnawed on his lips as he wandered around the crowded kitchen. He watched the same boys chugging down even more drinks and that girl spinning her hair around her fingers. Harry raised his brows when one of the blokes that were getting themselves sloshed spilled a can all over the makeshift island and special foods. He sighed before leaving the room, leaving Ed and Nick to drink their night away. Harry wandered around the lounge area and bumped into a few drunks. Someone got a little handsy, but Harry shoved them off and sat on an empty couch.
He crossed his legs and watched everything unfold around him. People were laughing boisterously with a drink in their hand, some people dancing to the background music of some artist that goes by the name, Fetty Wap. Oh and, Harry can see Zayn bracing his arm on the wall beside Niall and leaning in relatively close. He knew what this was all going to lead to tonight for his mate; it was honestly a little too obvious. Especially with Zayn’s proximity and touches.
Harry was bored out of his mind, so he pulled out his phone, as that’s what this resorted to. Ignoring the disgusting couple that was now beside him, snogging and spilling their drinks all over themselves. Harry just sighs to himself as he skims through his social media profiles because there’s nothing better to do. For a while, he scrolled through facebook before going onto instagram. Shaking his head when the first thing he see’s is Ed had posted on Instagram of him and Nick drinking and with a hashtagging it about living it up or some bull shit.
This continued on, and Harry noticed twenty minutes passed before he pocketed his phone and saw Niall was no longer standing where he was with Zayn, they had wandered off.
If this night couldn’t get any worse, his top was soaking wet and reeked of beer. The bloke that strolled by him stumbled over his own feet and dumped his drink on Harry’s top. Of course, it happened to Harry.
“I’m so sorry, man.” The guy said before he vanished into the crowd, leaving his red solo cup just littered on the floor. Harry furrowed his brows; that guy didn’t even bother to give him a towel or some napkins to dab some of the drink off. Fucking rude, especially with him also discarding the cup he spilled and acting like it never happened.
Harry shook his head and went off to the kitchen, tossing the empty cup into the bin before looking around for the loo. It was a tough search, because he kept bumping into more people and the blaring music was getting to him. His top was still soaked, and all Harry wanted to do was to go back to his quiet dorm and be alone. This was all just way too much of a sensory overload.
Just his luck, no toilet on the first floor, so that meant he had to go upstairs to the polluted pot rooms. Harry plugged his nose as he made his way upstairs, and found the room he was looking for, the first door at the top. He closed the door behind him, flipping on the light, and leaned against the door. Harry took a deep breath, counting to ten, and put his hands over his face.
At least in here he had some space, and didn’t have to worry about being a basin for discarded drinks. Harry finally made himself go over to the hand basin and grimaced when he saw the toilet had vomit in it, so he grabbed some tissue and flushed it, because God knows who touched it. Harry took a look in the mirror and did not like what he saw. This was going to be a pain in the arse to dry, so he grabbed fistfuls of tissues and started dabbing it, getting most of the moisture out. It looked like he’d be doing laundry on his day off. Nice.
Time seemed to fly by as he tried to get his shirt less than damp, because someone was pounding on the door. “You almost done in there?” a voice shouted from behind and jiggled on the handle.
“Give me a minute,” Harry hollered.
“Hurry the hell up, before a line starts forming.” the voice shouted back, and Harry just knew whoever it was more than likely a dickhead.
Harry sighed and rolled his eyes before tossing the soiled tissues away, then finally opening the door. “I said give me a minute, sir,” Harry retorted as the guy bumped passed him not so nicely and then somewhat shoved Harry out.
“You were taking way too long; I’ve been waiting out this bloody door for nearly ten minutes.” Whoever this bloke was, he was obviously over exaggerating. Harry was merely in there for five minutes, and clearly this guy had a problem with being patient.
“I wasn’t even in there that long,” Harry stated, crossing his arms. “I had an emergency featuring spilled beer on my top. Be thankful I’m kind enough to give up that,” Harry jeered, and the guy rolled his eyes.
“God, you sound like you never been to a party like this; why are you even here if you can’t take little beer on your shirt?” the bloke asked. But Harry just walked off. Rude, just rude.
Harry made his way back downstairs and found Ed at the edge of the staircase chatting up some girl, so he walked passed him and then found Niall and Zayn on the couch, cuddling and being all hands on. Harry marched right over there and crossed his arms.
“Niall,” Harry rebuked, “I want to go back now. I’ve already had beer spilled on me, and I just don’t fit in with this crowd.” Harry demanded, and Niall shook his head, not moving away from Zayn’s arms.
“Just relax and have fun, you’re probably just over exaggerating, Harry.” Of course he would say that. Niall obviously didn’t want to leave Zayn's side. Harry’s was not in the least bit surprised. Putting the guy he liked first before his friends, a true repeat offender.
“A little beer won’t hurt,” Zayn commented with a smile. “Also, if you're bored, head upstairs and talk to my mate, Louis, he’s cool,” Zayn suggested, but Harry shook his head and walked off again. That did no good, and he didn’t want to step foot upstairs again, especially with that arsehole roaming up there.
He went outside to the back, where it was a little less crowded, and people were mainly smoking cigarettes. Harry grabbed a seat at one of the couches against the house. He took out his phone once more and got sucked right into it until someone slammed down into the spot beside him and smelled like marijuana. God, so awful.
Harry made the mistake to look up when he heard the flick of the lighter, as here was the arsehole he had met upstairs. At least he was good looking, unlike his shit attitude. His fringe was messy and tousled, his scruff made him look maybe a few years older than himself; tight black ripped skinny trouser, black two in creepers shoes to probably add height to his short stature, and not to mention, he was wearing a tight Nirvana shirt paired with a light denim jacket.
“Well if it isn’t the bathroom hog, still here I see.” the bloke exclaimed as he brings the cigarette to his lips. “Have you calmed down now about your soiled top?” the guy asked.
“For the last time, I wasn't a hog,” Harry argued, crossing his arms. “I just didn’t want it to stain badly, and besides, you rushed me.” Harry scolded, narrowing his eyes at him.
“Whatever you say.” the guy muttered, as he took another drag from his cigarette. “So then… what brings you here tonight? You don’t seem like a partier, no offense.” the bloke added, exhaling the smoke from his lips.
“I was dragged here by my mates,”.
“Of course, you were.” the guy commented and Harry rolled his eyes. “Probably never partied a day in your life.”
Harry was just getting annoyed, “I have, actually. Parties just aren’t my thing. You, are being quite rude, so please keep your snarky comments to yourself.” Harry explained, getting to his feet and strolling off.
“The names Louis, babe.” Louis shouted out after him, as Harry vanishes back into the house.
That must have been Zayn’s friend, because he had met him upstairs (and also his name is Louis, duh?) and needless to say, that friendship won’t happen. Louis was rude, callous, and just upright annoying. Making unnecessary comments about Harry and assumptions based on the fact that Harry he was upset over beer spilling on his top. Bastard, and Harry hoped that this Louis kid would leave him the hell alone for the rest of the night.
Harry, now, on the move to find Ed, since Niall was probably already too much into his own little world by now. He ended up finding Ed in the kitchen, alone, which was surprising. So Harry took advantage of that.
“Harry! Having fun? Make any friends?” Ed asked hopefully, as he sipped from his can.
“Friends? No. Having fun? No. I’m actually quite annoyed and would much rather prefer going back home.” he answered honestly.
“I know this isn’t like your thing, but I’m glad you came out tonight, Harry. You may be annoyed and not trying to make friends, but hey, a little break from book work doesn’t hurt. You just need to stop looking at the negatives and just enjoy yourself. Have a beer and talk to some blokes. I know you have to find at least one of these lads attractive here.”
Harry got what Ed’s trying to do, but he just didn’t like it. Harry knew he had to balance his relationships with his schooling, and he was trying to figure it out, but it’s been hard. But at this party, even maintaining friendships is hard, especially when they all go off and do their own things. Harry’s left to survive alone in a house filled with people he’s never even seen before, let alone talked.
Ed took another drink from his can before setting it on the messy island. “You’re coming with me. Come on.” Harry wondered as he was led by Ed, who had his arms around his shoulders taking him towards the stairs. Harry stops dead in his tracks and was not wanting to get dragged into that mess.
“Hell to the no. Ed, it reeks of pot up there. I don’t want to step foot in that mess.”
“But Nick is up there with his mates, and it won’t hurt you just to hang out. Make some friends and just chill. Maybe not think about the little accident that happened on the couch or book work.” Ed proposed. “Please?”
“Fine,” Harry agreed reluctantly, following him up and into a room filled with four other guys… and Louis. Of course, he was in there. Harry didn’t expect anything less, to be honest, since all he smelled like outside were the things he was smoking. Harry cannot stand this stench, at all, and he hopes to God he himself doesn’t smell like this shit for days.
“Well, well, well. If it isn’t Ed and his virgin party friend.” Louis announced annoyingly with a smirk.
Harry took a seat on the bed as Ed laughed and sat beside Louis. “Harry’s more into studies.” Ed commented, putting it nicely, and Harry wanted to scream. Of course, expose him as a boring person that spends his night studying and not getting high.
“Not my fault I’m not into this,” Harry gestures to the things they were passing around. “I prefer a clean slate for my health anyways, Ed,”.
“God you're such a killjoy.” Louis laughed. “I bet you're against drinking too. I mean, against one of them, against them all, right?” Louis was wrong. He was being utterly annoying with his assumptions.
“I am not. I just don’t like this kind of stuff. I prefer bettering my life for a comfortable future, thank you very much.”
“Killjoy,” Louis stated, exhaling the smoke from his lips, as he passed it.
“I am not a killjoy,” Harry stressed, crossing his arms. “I’m just as cool as you think you are.” Harry was not about to let this punk ass talk to him like this anymore.
“Come hit this blunt then,” Louis challenged with a smirk. Ed raised his brows at that, looking at Harry, seeing if he’ll give in, especially after the whole killjoy comment.
Harry rolled his eyes, “I have far better things to do with my time, thanks though.” Harry answered, sharp-toned.
“So you're making excuses to cover the fact that you are a killjoy.”
“I’m not.” Harry stated, and narrowed his eyes.
“Mhmm, keep telling yourself that,” Louis said before taking another hit. “You know, Harry, maybe if you tried it, you wouldn’t be so uptight.” But Harry was so done, and he got up and left the room, ignoring the lads comments about him and Louis’ too. He was quite annoyed that Ed didn’t even step in to defend him.
For a second, Harry wanted to march back in there and rip that blunt out of their hands and stomp it out.
Good thing he wasn’t that uptight.
So he wandered about for the rest of the party, thoroughly annoyed more than ever, thanks to that Louis bloke, and even more annoyed that Ed didn’t even venture out to tell him to ignore Louis' idiotic remarks, or tell Louis to drop it. It turns out Harry wasn’t too worried about that Nick kid, and he hoped to God that if Niall ends up dating Zayn, he never has to be around Louis. Ever.
He plopped himself down onto the sofa and protested everything for the rest of the party, ignoring anyone that tried to have a conversation with him, waiting for this all to just end already. Harry was still pretty ticked off about what happened upstairs, however.
Soon enough Nick and Ed came downstairs laughing, joining Harry on the couch, and pretty much invaded his time alone. “Harry, lighten up, mate. Okay? Louis was only giving you a hard time; he’s always like that with the newbie’s.” Nick explained, and even that still didn’t dismiss anything at all.
“Hard time or not, I don’t appreciate being mocked,” Harry hissed, crossing his arms.
“Do you need me tell him to be a bit nicer?” Nick offered, but Harry shook his head.
“There’s no need to, because this is my last party, and I will never talk to him again.” Maybe Harry spoke too soon, because right after he said that, Louis sat right down in the recliner across from them.
“Talking shit about me to the killjoy, eh lads?” Louis teased.
“I'm going to say this one last time, I’m not a killjoy, Louis.” Harry sassed in defense.
“Sure, whatever you say.” his sarcasm was anything but funny at that point. “So, what do you even do for fun? I mean, other than study.” Louis commented.
“Watch movies, go for walks, jigsaw puzzles...” Harry listed off, and Louis acted as if he were snoring while Harry listed them off.
“Boring, boring, and boring,” Louis commented, “You seriously need to be corrupted a little.”
Ed shook his head, “Don’t even bark up that tree, Louis, you’ll go nowhere. Niall and I have tried countless times, but Harry’s got good morals.” At least Ed was kind of defending him.
“Fuck morals, you’re how old? And living the life of an elderly man!” Louis exclaimed, and Harry was offended again. “I bet you’ve never even tried anything out of your comfort zone other than attending this party.” Honestly, Louis wasn’t exactly wrong. “You wouldn’t last a day in my shoes.” And Harry had no desire to ever be in his shoes. Ever.
“Especially with what you consider fun of doing jigsaw puzzles.” Louis went on, and Harry rolled his eyes.
“It relaxes me, Louis. Especially when I burn out on studying.” Harry expressed, defending himself.
“A hit of a joint can relax you, why not try that?” Louis asked, “Oh yeah, I forgot. You’re a killjoy.” Louis smirk, knowing he's crawling under Harry's skin so easily tonight.
Man, that word was so annoying, and Harry hoped never to hear it again.
“Okay, stop giving him a tough time, Louis,” Nick cutted in and thank God for that. “Before you really tick him off. ” No shit.
Louis rolled his eyes and Harry wondered why Louis thought he was so entitled. Like, Harry didn’t need to do illicit drugs or drink to prove that he’s anything. Louis was just a jerk, because he probably thinks he’s a bad ass, with what he was wearing, to his callous personality.
“Yeah, and maybe if you’d actually try to not be a dickhead, maybe I might talk with you in a civil fashion. But you already showed your true colors to me, so friendship is out of the question.” Harry insisted and yet Louis shook his head.
“So uptight, unbelievable.” Louis commented and Harry scoffed.
“Enough, before you make an enemy out of each other from opposing views. This isn’t debate lectures or anything, calm down, and ignore each other.” Ed stressed. “Obviously, you two don’t get on, so no more bickering and shooting passive aggressive comments towards each other.” It wasn’t Harry who started. It was all Louis’ fault for being an arsehole the second he met him.
“Anyway, is there any buses around here? I want to leave.” Harry asked, seeing Louis roll his eyes once again. Harry desperately wanted to grimace, but nope, he kept his poise, as he was not letting Louis get to him anymore tonight.
“Unfittingly not in these hours, Harry. You’ll have to pry Niall away from Zayn, which won’t be easy.” Ed answered, and Harry was actually considering the whole walking on foot thing.
“I could give you a ride.” Louis suggested, “But unfortunately, I don’t drive around stuck up killjoys.”
“I wouldn’t dare get in a car with you; you’re high, and probably drunk too. I don’t trust you at all with my life in a car.” Harry hissed back, while Nick and Ed were shaking their heads, getting up to leave the two of them.
“Look who’s the one making assumptions now,” Louis commented. “I’ve only had one beer, and I'm far from drunk, babe, thank you very much. Just keep passing judgments on me. It’s highly amusing.” Louis laughed.
Harry was about to say something back, when some girl sat herself onto Louis lap and wrapped her arm around his shoulder. “Louis, why haven’t you answered my texts?” the girl pouted, and yet Louis looked less than interested, despite him being touchy with her legs and such.
This was certainly a change of events. Maybe now that his girlfriend or whatever she is was here, maybe Louis would finally leave Harry the hell alone.
“I’ve been busy, doll,” Louis cooed, “I’ve meant to catch you around,” he added, and instantly, Harry was up off his seat, walking away, and glad to have an escape. He made his way outside and sat down, alone, for the rest of the awful party. At least he was finally left by himself.
He didn’t see Louis again the rest of the night either, which was a relief; Harry suspected Louis went off with that girl he was awfully comfortable with. Not that he cared. Harry was glad Nick wasn’t drunk considering he’s the only one that drove. The car ride was quite interesting to say the least. For one thing, it was a little more cramped, because Zayn was snogging Niall right beside him, practically taking up the whole back seat for their shenanigans, and Harry felt really out of place again. Niall and Zayn are probably going to do it, and Harry’s not surprised about that, from all those little touches and playfulness he’d seen that night.
Harry found himself wondering if they slept together before that evening.
When Harry finally got back to his dormitory, he fell right onto his bed; this night was just too mentally exhausting. Then, he passed out in his clothes, also way too tired.
Come morning, Harry was awoken by loud beeping noises, and he just groaned. Of course, Harry had a text message.
Harry fished around for his phone under the blankets with his eyes still closed for a minute. He finally found it, and made himself open his eyes, and read the message.
Niall. Of course Niall would text Harry asking him if he’s up at seven in the morning, especially since it’s an ‘emergency,’ as he puts it. Harry wanted to ignore him a little longer, but then he remembered what happened last night, and soon enough, there was pounding at his door.
Harry sighed as he got to his feet, tossing his hair into a bun and calling it good. Answering the door and seeing Niall standing there looking rather radiant and already gussied up for the day.
“I take it you’re completely satisfied now?” Harry quipped dryly moving to let Niall in, “Since he did more than one love bite on you.“ he jested while Niall tried to cover them, “So, when did he leave? Was it before you woke up or did he just go? Because you look like you're about to squeal and jump up and down, because you finally slept with him.”
Niall rolled his eyes, coming in and sitting down on the chair by Harry’s desk. “Harry. It’s much more than the sex, like yeah, it was good… it was so, so good. Oh my god, shit, he knows what he’s doing.” Oh please, Niall really didn’t need to share with Harry the details. This was the last thing Harry wanted to hear about, let alone get any images in his head with it. Especially since he considered Niall like a family member of some sorts.
“Okay, I’m excited for you and all, but I really don’t want to hear about what positions you did or who did what,” Harry disclosed, shutting his door and finding himself sitting on his bed.
“Fuck off,” Niall snapped, and Harry just grinned.
“Anyways, what happens now? Are you just going to bang all year or are you going to ignore each other now?” Harry asked and Niall shrugged in thought.
“Not really sure, I mean, I did promise him I’d come hang with him and his mate before he left my dorm twenty minutes ago.” Well, that was good to hear.
“But, you’re going to hate me,” Niall continued, and there it was, that dreadful sentence that always implied something Harry really didn’t want to hear would be coming up. “I sort of mentioned you'd be there as well," Niall mentioned, scratching the back of his neck.
Of course he did.
“What? Why the hell did you do that for?” Harry asked irritated, wanting to know what his plan is, because Niall said he would leave Harry alone today because he tore him away from his all important studies the night before.
“I don’t want to go alone, and besides, his friends will be there, and I really want you to get to know them in case we end up, you know...dating.” Oh hell no. Harry knew exactly who these so called mates are, and he was already strongly against this idea.
“No, that means that dickhead named Louis is going to be there.” Harry griped, snarling.
“I take it you met him last night, then.”
“Obviously, and evidently he has such a loose mouth on him too.” No way in hell was Harry going to waste his day around that bloke again.
“I knew you two would clash,“ Niall sighed, shaking his head. “Just ignore his comments, Harry. I mean, you could at least try to get to know him.” Niall suggested. “Especially if I do end up with you know who.” Niall had a reasonable point. However, Harry couldn't think about friendship with Louis right now. It literally turned him off, and brought on a headache.
“Can’t make any promises, but I’ll try to be nice to him today, since you already promised your ‘boyfriend’ I’d be there.” he said, surprised with himself that he pretty much said yes.
“Shit, you’re a great friend,” Niall replied, happy he was able to convince Harry so easily. “I wish he was my boyfriend.” Niall pouted.
Harry wanted that for him too, however, Niall just needed to be patient and wait. Harry might not have been that experienced in the whole dating thing, but he knew for a fact Zayn was into him. If anything, Zayn was probably stalling on the whole question until things got passed the whole friend zone stage. Harry gave it a week before Niall comes to him all excited over a new relationship.
“Be patient, Nialler. I have a feeling it’s coming soon, don’t worry. I may not know the whole deal with you and him, but from what I’ve witnessed last night, I’m certain he’s going to ask you.” Harry reassures him. “Also, you’re right, he’s gorgeous.” Harry was trying to make Niall feel better about the whole boyfriend deal, because he sincerely didn’t want Niall to lose hope. It was bound to happen, Niall just needed to wait it out.
Harry was going to say something else, when Niall's phone went off, and he held his index finger up and answered it. Harry sat there as Niall was very coquettish on the phone; Harry was more than sure it was the one and only Zayn on the phone. The one whose swooped Niall completely off his feet, and yeah, Harry hoped this one lasts a little longer than the rest.
Harry made his way up and stretched out a bit, as Niall chatted away. So Harry fussed with his hair in the mirror, but soon he didn’t feel like messing with it anymore, so he threw it up into a bun again and slipped on a beanie over it. Good enough for him, and besides it looked a bit glum outside anyway, and more than likely it was going to rain.
Niall eventually got off the phone, blushing, and smiling down at his device before pocketing it. “So, how do you feel about going to a birthday party?”
Harry furrowed his brows. “Birthday party?”.
“Yeah, so, Louis is in a band, and they’re playing at his cousin's birthday bash today in Doncaster. Mind a bit of a road trip with Zayn?” What the hell? That’s like, a four-hour car ride. Did Harry really want to be stuck in a car with two people who shag now, and probably won't keep their hands off each other? Was Harry really up for that?
“You gotta be kidding me, right?” he asked, “I mean, Niall, that’s so far away, who’s even going to drive? Or are we taking a bus or something?”
“Stop worrying, Zayn’s driving and paying for the gas. Just enjoy the ride and relax.” That’d be easier said than done, when all Harry could think about was his studies Also being in a foreign place he’d never been before with a whole bunch of strangers.
“Please tell me why he’s going out of his way to go watch some silly band play? I mean, I’m sure he’s seen them before.” Harry complained, crossing his arms.
Niall shook his head with a small smile. “Harry, Zayn is Louis’ best mate. It should be self-explanatory, and just be glad you won't be stuck in a car with Louis, since you two can't seem to be level headed with each other. Honestly, you might not even have to deal with him, because he will probably be too busy with his guitar to notice you’re even there.” Hopefully, Niall was right, because really Harry didn’t want to hear his unsolicited opinions again.
Louis could shove his thought and assumptions elsewhere, honestly.
“I really hope this is worth it, Niall. I mean, have you ever gone off campus with him before? Like on a road trip?” he asked, and Niall shook his head.
“Oh, getting serious now.” Harry teased, “It’s coming Niall, I can feel it in my gut.”. Niall’s never went on any trips alone with anyone more than a friend before. He must really, really like this boy.
“But I do have an idea though, you could study in the car. I mean you could try and at least it
would give you something to do.” Niall proposed, and Harry did kind of like that idea. Still, he’s not too sure if he would be able to concentrate though and just the thought of being somewhere out of place sounded not so fun.
“I don’t know, Nialler. I mean yeah, I could study, but what if it’s too distracting? I’ll never get anything done.”
“Harry. Please just come alright? I need you there and you know I’d do the same for you,” Niall expressed. “You're my best friend, and I really like Zayn.”
Harry really wanted to tell him no, but his heart is telling him otherwise. Damn him for being too soft for Niall when he throws in the best friend card.
“Fine, I’ll go Like I said before.” He muttered out
“Great! You’re the best Harry! So now I’m going to let you freshen up and then I’ll grab you in an hour, and promise we’ll leave once the party is done, okay?” Harry nodded, even though he knew it wasn’t likely. Especially if Niall and Zayn get caught up in other things. Things that probably shouldn’t happen in a car but rather somebody’s bed.
It would be awful, being the third wheel.
Harry wasn’t sure if this was a smart idea. Parties bored him and being surrounded by strangers made him anxious. So great, two parties to days in a row. What were his mates trying to do to him?
The hour passed by too quickly, and soon he was with Niall, chatting his ear off down the corridor about Zayn, and speaking of which, the bloke was waiting out in the car park nearby; leaning against his vehicle.
Harry watched them a moment, hugging tightly, Zayn kissed Niall like they were in a relationship, and then smiling back at him. God, so disgusting, and Harry knew that they're going to be that type of couple. He could just see it.
Very touchy in public and disgustingly adorable. How the hell was he even going to survive the car ride, especially with the two flirting consistently and touching?
Harry really hoped that he doesn’t end up driving back, while the two snog in the back of the car. That would be a very awkward four-hour experience.
“Glad you decided to come, Harry,” Zayn mentioned with a grin, slipping his arm around Niall's waist. “I promise it’ll be fun, and besides, maybe you can actually get to know Louis better. I mean, other than ripping at each others throats, hopefully now that’s washed over.” Yeah, not likely, Zayn can keep dreaming.
“Maybe. If he keeps his rude opinions to himself.” Harry scoffed, as he crossed his arms.
“Oh come on, I mean, Louis told me he met you last night, and I think there is potential for friendship. You two may have started off on the wrong foot, but you guys may have far more in common than you think. Just give him another go, okay?” Zayn proposed, “He’s not that bad.” Not that bad? What the hell was Zayn on? Seriously?
He barely knew this Louis, and Harry was only there because Niall promised Zayn Harry would come. Maybe Zayn needed his ears checked or something, because those things Louis said we're not nice, not okay, and definitely annoying. Harry wondered if Louis was like that with everyone, since Nick said he gave the newcomers a hard time. Also, Harry wondered what year Louis was in, what’s he studying, and where he stayed, so that Harry could stay as far away from him as possible.
As if the trip couldn’t get any more annoying, Zayn and Niall were flirting heavily up front. Always touching and bantering too. Harry felt like the biggest third wheel. Despite this, Harry was glad because it means that they were making headway in terms of their possible relationship. He had to keep reminding himself that Niall really liked Zayn, and he had to support that. You know in case if he ever gets himself in a similar situation and also because Niall is his best mate. One thing is for sure is that Harry just hoped he didn’t keep getting dragged to parties, or anything involving Zayn with his mates for very much longer.
The first hour flew by, and maybe because Harry was studying on his phone trying not to pay any mind to Niall upfront laughing and talking really loud. Trying his hardest not to get distracted by the background and keep focus on what's important. There’s not enough time to slack off right now, not when it seems he’s the only taking his university career seriously.
“You’re very quiet, H.” Zayn commented, looking in the rear view mirror.
“I’m just reading is all,” Harry answered and Zayn nodded to that.
“Your best bet is to leave him alone while he studies, unless you want him to put a death wish on you.” Niall teased, and Harry shot him a glare.
Zayn snickered a little, “That’s fine. At least you’re ambitious.” That was nice of Zayn, not being told to ‘lighten the load’ or ‘procrastinate until the night before’ like Harry was oh so used to hearing.
So far, Zayn won some points with Harry. Niall picked a good one, finally.
“Thank you,” Harry replied as he went back to his readings.
Harry decided to keep to himself from that point on, ignoring the radio playing in the background, bumps on the motorway, and the two up front flirting. He felt more at ease now that he decided to focus on what's in front of him. It was mentally exhausting, but it worked for him, at least for the moment.
Time slipped away while he was engaged in his thoughts, because the car suddenly stopped. Harry broke away from his phone and seeing that they were already parked outside someone’s bungalow, got out. He was so focused on what he was reading that he had no idea what was evening happening.
“Harry?” Niall asked, “Earth to Harry, you there mate?” He asked, swaying his hand in front of Harry.
“What?” Harry finally broke his gaze from the window.
“You alright?” Niall questioned, and Harry just gave him a nod. ”Well, we’re here. Zayn's been standing there for a minutes waiting on you because you were in a trance, or something.”
Harry followed Niall out of the car and took a good look at their surroundings.
It was a fairly decent neighborhood, quite a slew of cars in front of the house they were at, and not to mention, every house was also decently sized. Harry hoped he’d survive today too, because two parties in a row was certainly going to be the death of him.
“Come on, we don’t want to stand out here like idiots,” Zayn expressed, gesturing for Niall and Harry to follow him. Harry slowly made his way up the steps and into the house, feeling quite nervous. Zayn didn’t even knock or ring, he just walked in and Harry wondered if Zayn even really knew these people.
“Zayn you made it!” Some girl with silvery long blonde hair came running up and pulled Zayn into a tight hug, almost making his fall back into Niall.
She looked young, perhaps sixteen. “Missed you.” she cooed before pulling away, “How come Louis never takes you with him anymore?” she pouted.
“Because he’s a dick.” Zayn laughed, and, well, Zayn isn’t wrong.
The girl just laughed and shook her head, and that was when she looked at Harry. “So, is this the one you always talk about,” she gushed with a grin.
Zayn shook his head, blushing like mad, and Harry wanted to laugh. Harry watched Zayn nod to Niall, who was grinning, and yet Harry was still holding back laughter.
“No, the blondie.” Zayn mentioned, rubbing the back of his neck. Watching the girl look towards Niall and grin. Zayn must have been very smitten with Niall, if he filled these girls ears up on how much he talks about Niall.
“Zayn always says you have pretty eyes on the phone, and he’s right.” she gushed before pulling Niall into a hug.
“So who’s your other friend then?” she asked, pulling away from Niall.
“I’m Harry, Niall’s friend.” Harry answered.
The girl nodded, before grabbing Zayn by the hem of his shirt and dragging him along. “Lottie, you’re going to stretch out my top,” Zayn hissed. Niall gave Harry a glance before they both followed Zayn and Lottie out back, and that’s when Harry's stomach churned.
There were a slew of people. Not as many as the night prior, but definitely more than he expected to be there. Harry passed through people, going after Lottie and Zayn, until he realized that Zayn was surrounded by a group of girls. Three of them looked alike, and he assumed that the two of them must be sisters, and the other one had to be either their oldest sister or mum. Harry was also more than likely sure that they were a part of Louis’ family, since the girl complained to Zayn about Louis not taking him. Also that sort of explained why Zayn just let himself in when they had arrived.
Hopefully Niall won't have a run in with Zayn's family here because that could be rather nerve wracking.
He could just see it, Niall, trying way too hard, and making a complete fool out of himself. Harry hoped the whole, ‘meet my parents deal’ happens later on, because, one, they weren’t even a couple yet, and two, Harry can't even imagine how daunting it'd be. Harry never made it to that part in his past relationship so he had no idea what exactly happens at that point.
Harry stood next to Niall and kept quiet, until another girl, who looked exactly like Lottie, came over and smiled at them. “You must be Niall, the guy Zayn fancies,” she commented as the corner of her mouth quirked up, eyes on Niall, and he nodded with a smile and a slight blush on his cheeks. “I’m Fizzy,” she grinned. “And you are?” her eyes finally looked at Harry.
“Harry, pleased to meet you.” he said giving her a small smile. Fizzy nodded.
“You too, now how about you boys come meet my mum and my friends,” Fizzy explained, nodding for them to go over and join the little circle, so they did. Harry felt a little out of place, though, because he barely knew these people, and, not to mention, more people came over to the group to chat up Zayn and Niall. Harry hadn’t attempted to talk to anyone yet, just more standing next to Niall and listening to him talk.
Harry sucked on his bottom lip, not really paying much attention anymore, standing there, thinking about what he could be doing right now back in his room had he been smart enough to decide not to come.
“Who are you, hun?” a woman asked, breaking Harry out his thoughts. “Are you Niall’s friend?” she questioned with a smile. He guessed this had to be the mum of Lottie, Fizzy, and Louis’, as she looked older than the rest of them.
“I’m Harry, and yeah, Niall’s friends, he kind of dragged me along.” Harry’s explained.
The lady smiled at that, “Nice to meet you Harry, My names Jay, Louis’ mum.” She explained, “Also, you go to Southampton too?” Jay asked and Harry nodded.
“Year one.”
“My son goes there too, year three, and with Zayn, Just wish he would take it more seriously,” she said with a sigh. So, Louis was a year three student. Interesting. “Have you meet Louis?” questioned, and Harry nodded slowly. Unfortunately, he had.
“He’s quite nice.” Harry lied, because he couldn't tell Louis’ mum that he loathed her own son.
“Louis has his moments, but he’s good kid.” Jay added. “So, what are you in school for?” She questioned.
“Nursing, I want to be a staff nurse, and then work my way up the ladder, eventually,”
“Oh, how wonderful! Excellent choice, Harry, I think you choose the right field. Myself, I’m a midwife, and let me tell you, it’s worth it. You choose well.” she cajoled, and Harry was glad she thought that. As he’d always admired the hard work nurses did before the doctors attend to them, but he couldn't imagine being a midwife, and helping a woman with birth. He was glad he met someone he can relate to, even slightly,
“So where are you from?” Jay questioned.
“I'm from Cheshire, well actually I'm living in my dorm right now, but on my off time at my mums,” Harry explained as Jay nodded along.
“Oh, that's not that far from here, then. So how did you decide on Southampton? I know it's a bit of a drive. I wasn’t entirely thrilled with Louis’ choice, but I knew he'd follow his friend anywhere though.”
“I've done quite a bit of research for a while, and I liked what they had to offer,” Harry answered. “Also my mum wasn't too keen on the idea, but she agreed to it once she learned Niall and my other friend Ed would be there too.”
“Well, you know us mothers and our instincts. We just worry all.” Jay said in defense with a smile. “Maybe sometime you could motivate Louis to be more serious about this.” Harry nodded even though he never is going to, not wanting to tell her what exactly he thinks.
“So do you have a girlfriend, boyfriend, married, or?” Jay asked Harry.
Harry just shook his head, “No been single for a while. Haven't met the right guy yet.” Raised her brow at that.
“You know, I’m going to sound like one of those mums that plays matchmaker, but I think Louis would love you if he took the time to get to know you. You’ve got a good career in your future and you’re handsome too.” Harry’s eyes widened and warmth inched up to his cheeks, as he didn’t expect this. But, she was so wrong; they would never get to know each other, more than being distant acquaintances, and Louis was inconsiderate. Harry preferred more of the gentlemen type. Besides, he thought, Louis has a girlfriend, or, at least, one that he was certainly comfortable with, because that girl on his lap last night didn’t look like just a friend, but he didn’t tell his mum that.
“Um, thank you,” Harry replied, his words just rushing out.
Harry watched her; and just as she was about to open her mouth again, Lottie came over and stole Jay’s attention away. As lovely as she was, thank God for Lottie. Jay was wonderful, but he didn’t want to think about dating her son, as it left an awful taste in his mouth.
Harry decided to look around, and that’s when he saw Niall and Zayn talking to Fizzy, and then he averted his gaze from there since much wasn’t happening. He looked at what he thought was the supposed band set up and then saw some of the other guests lounging around on the furniture chatting away. Harry noticed that he alone seconds later, he must not have noticed that Jay and Lottie had gone off. So Harry just closed his eyes. Taking a moment to relax a little.
“Well look who it is.” A familiar voice announced, and Harry opened his eyes only to rolls them in disgust. His moment to relax didn’t last very long.
“Niall made a promise that I’d come, so yeah, look who it is.” Harry said, sharp-toned, looking at Louis, who this time had his fringe pushed back with a headband.
Louis smirked at that, while standing in front of Harry which from what he can tell Louis is a bit shorter than him. He’s wearing a black tank top and his black ripped tight trousers along with denim jacket completing the look. He looks good, but Harry couldn’t get past the smell on him. He had a faint scent of nicotine, not weed, surprisingly. It kind of made his stomach churn, but Harry tried his best to ignore it.
“Because he knew you’d love to see my band today. We’re just that amazing.” Louis smirked, “I mean, we’re quite famous around here.” Man, was he awfully cocky.
“Right.” Harry said lazily. .
“And since you're probably wondering, yes, my guitar skills are impeccable,” Louis expressed and Harry seriously wish Louis would stop bragging.
“Nice, Louis,”.
“You know, maybe you could try to be friendly with me at my families party and all,” Louis insisted, crossing his arms.
“I don’t have time to be friendly with potheads, sorry,” Harry said in defense.
“Your mates smoke, Harry. You sound like a hypocrite.”
"I am most certainly not hypocritical. I was friend with them way before they got into this mess you consider fun.” Man, Harry was getting sick of defending himself already. What really bothered him was the way Louis acted.“Why are you laughing?” at this point, Louis was just snarling.
“Because you’re a bluffer and you won’t even admit it. Just like the rest of them.” There goes another one of Louis’ elicit opinions.
First it was killjoy, and then this.
What next? A prude?
“I don’t care what you think.” and Louis shook his head with a grin.
“Right, okay.” Louis sarcasm was really bothering Harry, more so that day than the night before.
“Louis, mate. Quite flirting and get your arse over here.” some guy yelled, and Louis had a flush that crept across his cheeks.
“I wasn’t flirting, so fuck off, Alex.” he shouted, before glancing back at Harry and then jogging off toward his band mates.
Harry stood there, licking his lips, and wondering why Louis felt the need to come bother him again in the first place.
Harry decided to join everyone else when the music started, and got himself some cake to munch on. Surprisingly, the band was pretty good and apparently they’re called Faithless Night. Good name, good indie sound, nice looking band mates (except Louis, or at least, nice behaving), and not to mention, they were rather talented. Harry was impressed and yet he was not about to tell Louis that once he was done. No need to make him even more arrogant.
He saw Niall and Zayn standing together at one point, well, really, Zayn behind Niall holding him, so Harry was confident that Niall would be really happy soon.
When the band started the next song, Harry went over to the tree again, where it was a little less populated, and sat against it on the ground, taking out his phone and checking the time. They had only been there for two hours, and he suspected they’d be there till sundown, which he actually didn’t mind. Not anymore, since he‘d met some of the people, and they weren’t all that bad.
Harry put phone away and watched everything; Lottie and Fizzy were chatting up some boys over by the cake table, Louis’ mum was talking to what he thought was one of Louis’ sisters or friends, Niall and Zayn still in their own world, guests eating, talking, and bobbing their heads to the music. The band playing song after song, even throwing a few covers in there from Oasis.
So far, it wasn’t too awful, and he was just glad he finally decided to enjoy the moment instead of being mad that Niall went back on his promise of leaving him alone today. Harry was actually thinking of apologizing to Niall for being a little upset in the first place, but then again, Niall was probably too in tune with Zayn to even care.
When it came time for the band to take an intermission, Harry stayed where he was, now totally engrossed in his phone. Niall and Zayn had a very different agenda and Harry had also gotten a text from Ed asking if he would like to try out another party that night when he got back. Of course, Harry told him probably not, because another party sounded utterly exhausting. But, he would take a rain check, since Harry had an early morning lecture the next day, so being tired would not be good.
He pocketed his phone once more and decided to get up, as Harry was thinking about going to find the loo to escape away for a second again. When he walked out, Louis was leaning against the wall, near the door just shaking his head.
“It seems we keep meeting at the same place.” Louis teased, “Do you always take forever?” Harry just narrowed his eyes at that.
“I was fixing my hair.” Harry shot back at him as he stuffed his hands into his pockets.
“Right, the fixing the hair excuse. Works like a charm every time.” Louis smirked. “Well, if you excuse me, I’ve been waiting for five minutes now,” he retorted, pushing past Harry, sending him a wink before shutting the door. Harry was boiling on the inside.
Despite this, Harry walked away and went back outside to join the rest, and he found himself back at the tree. Zayn and Niall were now standing near the house, all close; then Harry noticed Louis talking to them eventually catching Harry watching them and winking at him. Harry felt a bit embarrassed and quickly looked away.
He didn’t even notice the band when they started to play again. His head shot up eventually, and he watched them. Soon enough, someone sit beside him, and that person was Lottie.
“Having fun being all alone over here?” she asked, eyes still glued on the band.
“I suppose. I just needed to break away from being surrounded, I guess.” Harry admitted and Lottie nodded.
“I know exactly how you feel. That’s why I joined you, and besides, it’s actually a little more relaxing over here. Not to mention, I can see my brother’s band mate, Alex, because he’s a hunk.” Lottie grinned “Don’t tell Louis I said that, he would murder me.” Lottie snickered.
“I won’t.” Yeah, Harry would never ever.
It fell silent between them as they listened on to the band play. Harry didn’t mind Lottie sitting beside him, because she was actually quite nice. Harry locked eyes with Louis for a second, before looking down and scratching the back of his neck.
Soon, Harry noticed Lottie get up and go talk to some guy that she was chatting up earlier and leaving Harry to himself.
The time sitting by the tree seemed to slip by, soon Niall was lounging beside him and Zayn nowhere to be seen.
“Where’s your lover boy?” Harry teased.
“He had to go inside for a minute. I saw you were over here. Why aren’t you out there making friends?” Niall brought up.
“I rather be elsewhere, and besides, I’ve already got somewhat acquainted with Lottie.” Harry insisted, as he brought his knees to his chest.
“Quit being so negative, Harry.“ Niall replied, “Well good, glad to see you’ve managed to try meeting new people. I promise in an hour or so we’ll leave okay?” Harry didn’t believe it, but he didn’t argue.
“So what’s the deal with Zayn? I mean obviously you two were quite the couple earlier during the first performance.” he japed.
Niall blushed a bit and grinned. “I honestly have no idea, it still on my mind that he talks about me to Louis’ sisters,” he gushed Harry was happy that Niall was finally seeing someone that was actually worth it, and put in effort.
“I think you found a good one,” Harry mentioned. “I like him.”
Harry knew to Niall that meant a lot because usually Harry never liked any of Niall’s ex’s or hookups. Zayn was entirely different than the rest; he may have come off as a bad ass, but now that Harry has seen him around Niall, it was something else. Zayn’s not toying around with Niall and shoving him off to the side when his mates are around. His eyes’ not wandering to anyone else but Niall. Harry’s been there when all of Niall’s past interests only cared about one thing or were self absorbed, and so far Zayn seems pretty decent enough for Harry to approve. He hasn’t just had sex with Niall, they actually hang out, and are quite into each other. So hopefully this goes somewhere.
“Thank you, that says a lot since you’ve always hated everyone I’ve been involved with.” Niall said with a smile.
It was a comfortable silence between them for a while. The band was done playing, but the party presumed. It was getting a little dark, but not too bad. Zayn eventually came back over and snatched Niall’s complete attention away again.
Harry got up to go get another piece of cake, and he sat on one of the benches against the house. He watched Niall and Zayn talk with Jay, then noticed some people already leaving. Harry twirled his fork around the frosting, slowly getting up to throw out his half eaten piece of cake. Harry jumped when a voice came from behind and spooked the living daylights out of him.
“That’s wasteful,” Louis avowed.
Harry turned around quickly, seeing that Louis was rolling up the sleeves of his denim jacket, exposing some tattoos. Louis might have some elsewhere, but of course, Harry was not going to ask, he had no reason too, why should Harry care?
“Do you always need to bother me?” Harry shot back.
“I’m just pointing out that you threw out a piece of cake that looked perfectly fine.” Louis mentioned, with his arms crossed.
“Thank you, captain obvious,” Harry smirked, he wasn’t going to give Louis the satisfaction of annoying him this time. Nope.
Louis shook his head and pulled out his pack of cigarettes from a pocket of his skinny ripped trousers. “You know you should come join the smoke circle with my band mates and Zayn. I’m sure your friend Niall will be there too.” Louis suggested.
“I think I'm alright, actually. I hate the smell of cigarettes.” Harry stated.
“Oh yeah, forgot,” Louis noted. “Suit yourself then, be the killjoy you are,” he blurted out loudly as he sauntered off.
Just because Harry hated cigarettes, marijuana, and drinking did not make him a killjoy. No matter what Louis had to say about it.
Harry stood there contemplating if he should march after Louis and set things straight or give up, but in the end, he goes against his weak bout of confidence. Harry pulled up his phone and reads his notes because he really didn’t want to think about anything else.
Luckily, he managed to cram in some studying again. He didn’t realize how much time he had to study, until Niall texted him saying they were leaving in twenty minutes or so.
Thank God.
Harry got up and said goodbyes to Lottie, Fizzy, and Jay. He also went looking for Niall and Zayn, but he couldn’t find them anywhere outside. So he ventured inside, and that’s when he could smell it by the basement door. They were downstairs.
Harry took a deep breath before making his way down the stairs to see Niall, Zayn, Louis, and the band mates playing a round of pool, and Harry sighed. It reeked of cigarette smoke and it was quite loud with alternative music booming throughout the basement. It was like their own little party and Harry wanted to find his own way home. This was getting ridiculous.
“Well if it isn’t the killjoy coming to finally join us.” Louis jested, taking a drag of his cigarette.
“Louis, stop,” Zayn said lazily, taking a drag as well. “We told him we’d be leaving in like ten minutes or so, he’s fine.” At least Zayn defended him and stopped Louis from his frivolous comments. Zayn earns a point from Harry on that for a potential mate.
“Yeah, and I’m ready to leave.” Harry announced, “Is it even okay to be smoking and drinking down here?” he asked as he quirked his brow.
Louis laughed, “Of course it is.” he shook his head. “This is my mum's house, she hosted James’s birthday this year. So yeah, she doesn’t give a damn what I do, as long as I don’t stain the carpets and keep the noise down.” Louis clarified, putting out his cigarette in the ashtray.
“Okay, you two, chill.” One of the guys said as he took a shot at the ball and hit one of the stripes in the opening. “We don’t need you getting into a brawl again, Louis.” the guy smirked and Louis narrowed his eyes.
Harry didn’t even bother saying anything else, instead he took a seat next to Niall on the couch, watching them finish up their game. The smell was really getting to him, and the fact that Louis was sending him challenging glares didn’t put him in a better mood.
This game seemed to last forever, and with all their bantering back and forth, Harry was just sitting there impatiently. It felt as if they were both dragging their heels, and Niall wasn’t even acknowledging it, he kept watching Zayn and cheer-leading him on with his team.
“Let me make a bet,” Louis started, “Man to man, both me and you, Zayn, since we’re the last two to go against each other.” he grinned.
“Loser gets a tattoo on their fingers tomorrow. Winner gets to go free,” Louis declared, and Zayn agreed.
“Just another added to my body, so bring it on, Tommo,” Zayn smirked.
Tommo? Was that his nickname?
Harry couldn’t believe they were betting on the loser getting a tattoo, like, that would be permanent. But, Zayn was loaded with them, and as Harry remembered, Louis was too, and since Harry was almost positive Louis had a chest piece, a new one because of a stupid game would be nothing.
Harry couldn't help but wonder what was wrong with their sanity, or lack thereof.
By the time the game was finally over, it had been decided that Zayn actually won it, causing Louis to curse a bit.
“My mum is going to kill me when she finds out, but whatever. Good game, Z.” Louis commented, as he bumped fists with him.
“Your own fault for making up the bet in the first place, but hey, if it makes you feel better I can get one of mine touched up with you, mate,” Zayn suggested and Louis liked the idea. “We should probably get going, though, I’ll shoot you a message tomorrow about the appointments, alright?” Zayn questioned before Louis nodded.
“You going to be there, eh killjoy?” Louis questioned, shooting a glance towards him, and Harry scoffed.
“Me? Tattoos? Yeah, right, as if.”.
Louis smirked, “Of course, just as I thought. Against tattoo’s as well?”
“Of course not, I don’t want to mark my body is all,” Harry replied sharply. “I mean, it is permanent, so I really have no reason to get them,” he went on, standing to his feet. ”I’m perfectly fine the way I am,” he added in.
“I don’t want a tattoo either,” Niall admitted. “So I’m with Harry on that one.”
Louis shrugged. “Suit yourselves.” Surprisingly he didn’t throw a zinger in there.
Harry just stood back a bit as they all started saying their goodbyes since he didn’t really know anyone other than Zayn, Niall, and unfortunately Louis..
Speaking of the devil, Harry managed to ignore the look he was getting from Louis. Harry followed the rest of them up the stairs, until he heard Louis call out to him, as Louis wasn’t going up with them.
“See you around, killjoy,” Louis shouted, followed by a laugh.
Louis would just have to keep wishing.