ABIGAIL WRITES

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As Louis pulled into the pub car park he saw the unmistakable figure of Liam standing shivering, his hands stuffed into his coat pockets. He had a scowl on his face.

Louis parked up in an empty space and got out of the car to greet his friend.

“You alright mate?” He asked, noticing Liam’s expression.

“This car is such a piece of shit.” Liam grumbled, kicking one of the back wheels with his foot. “But I can’t afford anything better at the moment. What do I do?”

Louis patted him on the shoulder. “Leave it here overnight, it’ll be safe. I’ll run you back over in the morning and we can see if we can do anything with it.”

Liam sighed, but nodded, following Louis to the navy Mini. He slid in the passenger’s seat, thankful for the warmth. Once Louis was strapped in the engine was brought to life.

“So, how’s things at home?” Liam asked, taking his beanie hat off of his head and placing it in his lap.

“Yeah, it’s okay. Just been chilling with the guys. Harry’s over as well, having a couple of beers and that.”

“That’s cool, I fancy a beer after that shift.”

“Rough night?” Louis asked, sounding his horn at a rabbit that was sat in the road. It made contact with Louis’ headlights before running off into the grass at the side of the road.

“Really rough. There were some kids in tonight who couldn’t have been older than fifteen. I refused to serve them, but they’re obviously friends with someone who was on shift tonight because they were absolutely hammered by about nine, causing a scene.”

“How shit, I saw them coming in as I left I think. Well there’s a cold beer waiting for you in the fridge, so just try and forget about those dicks.”

They fell silent for a moment, listening to the steady sound of the engine as they raced across the roads.

“How are things with Harry?” Liam asked, turning to his friend in the driver’s seat.

“Yeah, they’re good. Really good.” Louis replied biting his lip, clearing wanting to say more. “You don’t think…you don’t think mine and Harry’s relationship is weird do you? I mean with the age difference and stuff?”

Liam thought for a moment. “No. I don’t think so. It’s not even five years. He’s nearly eighteen isn’t he?”

“I’ll be twenty-two before he’s eighteen.” Louis admitted as if it were a dirty secret.

Liam just shrugged. “As long as you’re both happy, that’s the main thing. I just think…” He paused, wondering if what he wanted to say would hurt Louis’ feelings or not. Louis glanced at him questioningly.

Liam sighed. “I just think you need to be careful. It’s not the age gap really. It’s that…Harry is so young in a different way. Inexperienced I guess. I think you just need to remember that. Your Mum didn’t care that you’re bi. But Harry’s parents…what he says of them…just remember, when the time comes, and it will come, his parents might not be accepting, and it will be hard. Just bare that in mind, won’t you?”

Louis was silent for a good while. “I just don’t want to hurt him.” He said softly.

“You won’t,” Liam reassured, “but his parents will. And when they do, you need to be there for him, no matter what happens. And we’ll be there for him too, remember that.”

“You think he’ll bother? If his parents find out…when his parents find out, what happens if he decides he doesn’t want me?”

They were almost home now and Louis couldn’t help but be disappointed in a way. He hadn’t had a heart to heart with Liam in quite a while. Mainly because they had nothing sensitive to talk about. But with Harry…Harry was sensitive in many ways.

Liam didn’t know how to reply to Louis’ question. But as they turned into their road he said, “Do you really think, that after all those years of torment and hatred that Harry would chose his parents over you? You’ve given him more happiness and hope in two months then they have in their entire lives. Think about that. Remember it.”

Louis pulled into the driveway, a gentle smile on his face. They exited the car and just before walking through the front door Louis wrapped his arms around his longest friend. “Thanks.” He whispered into Liam’s ear.

Liam patted his friends back lovingly before dropping his arms. “Anytime, now where’s that beer you promised me?”

The first thing that hit them as they walked through the door was the smell. It turns out Niall and Zayn didn’t have just one joint’s worth of weed. Liam scowled the moment he recognised the smell and barged into the living room.

There he found the three boys giggling in a haze of light smoke. “You idiots.” He hissed, shaking his head at them before going to retrieve his beer from the fridge.

Louis entered the living room and saw the sight Liam had frowned at moments before. They were sat in a circle on the floor, eyes bloodshot. Louis watched as Harry, unaware he was being observed take a drag of the second joint that was being shared between the three. Surprisingly he took the pull with ease, smiling and eyes crinkling as he exhaled.

Too confused and shocked to say anything for the moment Louis marched into the kitchen, snatched Liam’s beer and took a long gulp.

“Get your own.” Liam muttered, snatching it back.

Louis did as he was told and got his own bottle from the fridge, popping open the cap and taking a large drink from his own without a word.

“Think they pushed him into it?” Was all Liam asked, eyes dull and unimpressed.

“I don’t know,” Louis replied, words sharp, “I’ll ask him shall I?” He stormed into the living room, this time the three boys inside taking notice.

“Hey Lou,” Harry gave a lazy smile to his boyfriend in the doorway. His voice was deep and slow. Had he not been so fucking high Louis might have found it sexy. But instead he gave a false smile back and said, “Let’s go outside. I need a smoke.”

Harry grinned in acceptance, handing the joint to Zayn and picking himself up off the floor. He followed Louis outside, rummaging in his pocket for his cigarettes and lighter.

The moment Harry found them they were pinched from his hand. He watched with bloodshot eyes as Louis lit himself a smoke and taking a satisfying drag.

“So?” Louis asked, his blue eyes icy as he looked at his boyfriend.

“So?” Harry repeated, trying not to giggle and the unusual look Louis was giving him.

“What. The. Fuck?” Louis emphasised each word.

“What the fuck what?”

“Why?”

“Why what?” Harry repeated again.

Louis sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Did they ask you to?”

“What…the weed?” Harry finally cracked on.

“Yes you fucking idiot, the weed. Why?” He had never called Harry an idiot before, at least not in a cruel way. But in the state Harry was in he felt it was justified.

Harry just shrugged, clearly not fussed. “It was my idea. I just wanted to try.”

Louis rolled his eyes. “Was it worth it?”

“I feel great.”

The older boy finished the last of his cigarette and stomped it out into the grass.

“Well good for you.” Louis replied bitterly. He didn’t get why he was so angry. Maybe it was because he wanted to try and keep Harry pure forever at least in some ways. The drinking and smoking was one thing, but weed was a whole new fucking deal. It only told Louis one thing…Harry was trying too hard. Way too hard. The boys liked him enough as he was. In fact they loved Harry. So why was Harry getting involved in this shit? To look cool? To impress people? It certainly wasn’t impressing Louis. But Louis realised he couldn’t control Harry, nor did he really want to.

“You mad at me?” Harry asked, touching Louis’ had lightly.

“Maybe a bit.” Louis admitted, not quite making eye contact with the younger boy.

“Why? I haven’t done anything wrong.”

“I told you not to get involved in that kind of shit.”

“Well you did,” Harry shrugged, lighting up his own cigarette. “You did worse.”

Louis’ hands bundled up into fists, his jaw tight. “Who told you that?”

“The boys,” Harry said casually. “It’s okay. I don’t care that you did those things.”

“Well I do,” Louis fumed, “this shit isn’t cool okay? Never was, never will be. I’ve seen it ruin people’s lives, okay?”

“I’ll be careful, I promise…I’m sorry.” Harry gave Louis his best puppy dog eyes, slightly ruined by the redness.

Louis rolled his eyes in return, but pulled his boyfriend in for a hug regardless, leaning up slightly to kiss his forehead. “I just don’t want to see you make the same mistakes I did.”

“I won’t.” It seemed to be the truth then, but it was all lies they would both realised.

They kissed. Harry dropping his half-finished cigarette on the floor and wrapping his arms around Louis. Harry tasted of weed and beer, and Louis hated how familiar it was. Despite it all he pulled Harry into him, digging his nails into Harry’s shirt, causing him to whimper slightly.

“You want to go upstairs?” Harry suggested, stupidly seductive and irresistible. Louis debated with himself, hating how moments before he was angry with the boy now giving him bedroom eyes. It was unfair really, how Harry was starting to understand how sexy Louis found him. He knew all the right ways to set him off.

Louis groaned, more at himself in defeat, but grabbed Harry’s hand and pulled him up the stairs, boner already straining in his jeans.

The moment the door was shut behind them their lips were attached. It was rough and desperate. Louis nipping at Harry’s bottom lip and digging his nails into his skin, making sure to punish the boy for the trouble he’d caused. And Harry let him, giving little moans and cries every so often, letting Louis know he was in charge.

After a few minutes Louis broke the kiss, pushing Harry away from himself so he landed on the bed. He sat upright and watched as Louis pulled his black t-shirt off, blue eyes still cold and icy, his hair a mess, and day old stubble littering his chin. Harry’s mouth practically watered at the sight, wondering how he was so lucky. He smirked as Louis threw his t-shirt to the ground, mouth a hard line. If only they knew…if only every single fucker knew what Harry Styles was doing right now. That would shut them up. It would make them blush. It would make them cry in pleasure and pain at how lucky he was.

Louis took two quick steps towards the younger boy, grabbing his wrists and pinning them behind his head. Louis kissed him again, forcefully and full of lustful rage.

“You make me furious.” Louis growled against his lips, keeping a firm grip on Harry’s wrists. Harry wanted to giggle, brain still hazy from the weed. He squirmed under his boyfriend, knowing it would make him mad.

Louis shot him a look. “Don’t move.” He ordered.

Harry didn’t listen, instead throwing his head back as a throaty giggle escaped. Louis didn’t find it funny. He unclenched his hands from around Harry’s wrists and sat up on his knees, straddling the younger boy.

Harry watched with curious smirk as Louis removed his belt buckle.

“Shirt off.”

Harry responded in an instant, pulling his t-shirt over his head and throwing it on the floor.

“Move.” Louis instructed, pointing towards the head of the bed. Harry did as he was told, but slowly. Inching up the bed, eyes joint with Louis’ the whole time. The moment his head was near the pillows Louis pounced. He grabbed Harry’s wrists again, this time wrapping the black leather belt around them, and looping it through his wooden headboard. He knotted it twice, making sure that Harry’s hands couldn’t escape.

“Comfortable?” Louis asked, one eyebrow raised.

Harry could only nod, mouth open a little in shock. He pulled a little on his restraints, realising the only way of escaping was being released by Louis.

“Good.” Was all Louis said before attacking Harry with kisses once more. He moved to his neck, nipping at the pale skin. Harry bucked underneath him, his wrists fighting the belt they were trapped in.

He hisses slightly as Louis sucked at the delicate skin, making sure to leave his mark. Harry jeans were tight, his cock begging to be realised. Harry could cry with frustration, but he realised that’s what Louis wanted.

Finally, Louis got the hint and popped Harry’s jeans open, shoving them down his thighs along with his underwear. Louis smirked at the sight of Harry’s erection, raising his eyebrows at the boy. He gave one long lick, causing Harry to groan deeply, but that was all he was getting. At least for the moment.

Louis unzipped his own jeans, and watched Harry’s reaction as he began to stroke himself. Harry was whimpering slightly, wanting nothing more than to break that damn headboard so his wrists were free to touch Louis. Touch himself. Touch anything.

Louis continued to watch the boy who was in agony. His eyes lustful. Harry’s mouth was better than his own hand, but he enjoyed Harry pathetic face too much at the sight of his boyfriend pleasuring himself. He didn’t want to give the little fuck the satisfaction of being able to make him cum.

Louis was panting now, knowing that if Harry continued to whimper like he was that he wouldn’t last much longer.

“Open your mouth.” He managed to say, his voice husky and deep.

Without a seconds delay Harry opened, tongue sticking out slightly. And with that Louis came, all over his boyfriend’s chest, and on his tongue. Louis wondered if he’d taken it too far, but smirked as he watched Harry swallow down the pearly drops happily.

“Hmm. I think I’m done.” Louis teased, zipping himself back up and getting off of the bed.

“No!” Harry cried, his voice strained and begging. He was aching, and thought he would pass out if Louis didn’t touch him soon.

“Bad boys don’t get pleasure. They get punished.” Louis stated, half serious.

“No…I’m not…” Harry could barely string a sentence together. He pulled at his wrists again. “Please.” He almost whispered.

“Say it again.”

“Please!” Harry said louder. Moments later he shuddered in relief as Louis’ mouth sank down on his cock.

“Fuck.” He breathed, eyes closed. He knew that if he looked at Louis right now, with his eyes framed by dark lashes that he would be finished right then. So he squeezed his eyes shut for as long as he could.

That was until Louis snapped, “Look at me!”

He did, and it was the sight of Louis’ eyes looking up at his own that set him off. “Fuck!” He cried again, cumming straight into Louis mouth.

After Louis had finished every last drop, he pulled Harry’s jeans back up and untied the belt with care. Harry sighed in relief once his wrists were free.

“You okay?” Louis asked, noticing his pale wrists were a little red.

“Perfect.” Harry admitted, pulling Louis into a cuddle.

“I’m sorry about earlier.” Louis admitted, tracing his fingers along Harry’s wrists delicately.

“Me too.”

“It’s just…I was an asshole a few years ago. And stuff like weed was what started it all. I just don’t want to see you hurt by anyone, including yourself.”

“I know. I’m still a teenager I suppose.”

Louis grimaced, but laughed anyway. “Please don’t say it like that. It makes me feel dirty.”

“You are dirty.”

Louis slapped Harry’s chest playfully before noticing it was past midnight.

“Come on, I better get you home.”

“Really?” Harry protested, catching his t-shirt that Louis had just thrown at him.

“You don’t have any of your stuff with you. Besides I need to get up early and help Liam with his car anyway. You don’t mind do you?” Louis asked, hoping Harry wasn’t annoyed.

“So, you’re just gonna love me and leave me then?” Harry mocked, acting offended.

“Don’t be an arsehole.” Louis grinned, putting his own t-shirt back on. He pulled Harry up from the bed, engulfing him in a tight hug. “I love you.” He said into Harry’s shoulder.

“I love you too.” Harry replied, smiling lazily.

Harry had one last cigarette before the drive home, his hair a mess and his eyes still a little red. He hoped no one was up when he got home. He knew the only person who would be was Gemma, but he planned to sneak in quietly enough not to raise attention.

“I’ll see you later.” Louis smiled, giving Harry a peck.

“Night Lou.” Harry said just before shutting the car door.

He managed to creep into the house undetected, thankful that he knew the alarm code so as to not wake the entire street up.

He was almost at his room when his sister came shuffling through the corridor in her slippers.

“What are you doing?” She asked groggily. In one hand she held a hot chocolate with marshmallows, she used the other to rub at her tired eyes.

“I…just got in from Louis’.” He admitted.

Gemma just sighed. “Okay, whatever. I don’t want to know,” she sniffed the air slightly. “and have a shower, you fucking stink of smoke.”

Harry just muttered a response before entering his room, removing his jeans and crawling into bed.

——————————————————————————————————

The two boys spent every evening together that week. Monday, after the scene at the café they ventured back to Louis’, and spent the next few hours slouched in front of the TV. They watched Friends, giving each other lazy kisses and playing with each other’s fingers.

Tuesday was spent parked up at the lake, both of them wrapped up in thick jumpers as the November chill nipped at their noses. Harry insisted on smoking a cigarette to which Louis only huffed and agreed. After Harry had taken his third drag Louis grunted and snatched the cigarettes, taking one, and lighting it for himself.

“You’re an idiot.” He mumbled, watching how his young and stupidly attractive boyfriend smoked delicately. He shouldn’t look as hot as he did, but Louis couldn’t help but think it. And the moment the both of them had stubbed out the remains of their smokes, Louis had Harry in the back of the car, shirtless in thirty seconds. Louis pinned Harry’s hands above his head as he straddled him, kissing his mouth, his neck, his collarbone.

“I just can’t resist you.” Louis growled in between kisses, forcing Harry’s trousers undone and pulling them down his thighs. Harry didn’t say a word, but just stared at his boyfriend, mouth half open in ecstasy as he watched Louis get to work.

It amazed Harry, how one day they could be sweet and cuddly, and the next horny as fuck. Months ago he wouldn’t have dreamed of this, never believing he would have the confidence to ever allow someone to be this intimate with him. But the moment Louis’ lips were on his own, or around his cock, it just felt right. It felt real.

And that’s why, on Wednesday night, Harry gave his first blow job. They were back at Louis’, kissing fiercely on his bed. For once Harry was on top, his long legs placed either side of Louis’ hips, with one hand interlaced with the older boys. He could feel Louis wanting to take control and roll Harry over, but he stood his ground.

He unlocked their fingers making Louis whine in protest, but he soon stopped when Harry’s hand found his jeans. It wasn’t unusual for Harry to go into Louis’ jeans, but he just didn’t do it often. Harry continued to kiss Louis’ swollen lips as his hand found its rhythm. Louis bucked slightly underneath him, groaning.

“I want to try something.” Harry whispered, capturing his green eyes with blue. They were darker somehow, lustful. Louis made a confused moan, not understanding what Harry meant, but understood soon enough when Harry lowered himself down Louis’ body. The older boy’s eyes shot open in surprise, never expecting Harry to have the guts. He couldn’t take his eyes off of Harry as he spit on his length. His breath was short and quick with anticipation, watching as Harry tentatively kissed and licked. But once he finally gained the courage to take Louis whole in his mouth, Louis’ threw his head back on his pillow, groaning loudly.

“Fuck!” He almost screamed, biting his bottom lip to stop himself crying out even louder.

His hands found their way to Harry’s curls, pulling at them slightly. Harry’s mouth was inexperienced, and he was gagging ever so slightly at the unfamiliar sensation, but all the same it was the best Louis had felt in ages.

Only a few minutes later Louis was gripping Harry’s shoulder, telling him that unless he wanted a mouthful, he better let go. Harry, as told, gave a final bob of his head and let Louis’ cock slide out of his mouth just in time. Louis’s cum landed mostly on his own stomach, but Louis was delighted to see a couple of drops on Harry’s cheek, and one, not so fortunately, in his eye.

Louis’ heart was racing, his cheeks a bright red. He panted as he looked at the boy in front of him, pink lips swollen, and his left eye half shut. Harry used the cuff of his shirt to wipe the cum from his cheek, and then at his eye.

“Shit,” he muttered, “that stuff stings.”

Louis gave a tired laugh, patting the empty space beside him, inviting Harry in. Harry did as he was told and lay next to his boyfriend, turning slightly to face him.

“You didn’t have to do that.” Louis smiled, cupping the younger boy’s cheek with his hand.

“I wanted to.” Harry admitted truthfully, rubbing at his eye.

“Don’t rub it, you’ll make it worse.” Louis laughed, swatting Harry’s arm away. “Sorry though. Didn’t mean to get you in the eye.”

Harry just shrugged and slung his arm around Louis’ stomach and placing his head on his chest, listening to his heart beat which was just starting to slow back to its normal pace.

They lay in a comfortable silence for a few minutes, Louis playing with Harry’s curls and wondering what on earth he’d done to deserve such a perfect human being. He frowned then, realising something.

Harry looked up, noticing Louis’ serious face. He panicked, hoping that what he’d just done wasn’t wrong, and hadn’t pushed Louis over the edge. “What’s wrong?” He asked, slightly worried. He lifted up slightly, propping himself up on his elbow.

“I just…realised something.” Louis said vaguely. “And I just don’t know whether to say it.”

“You can tell me anything. You know that?” Harry searched for any sign in Louis’ blue eyes. They met his green and they shared a look.

“You sure? You sure I can tell you anything?”

Harry nodded in encouragement, suddenly terrified.

Louis took a deep sigh, chewed his lip nervously and finally admitted, “I think I love you…I do…I do love you.”

Harry’s heart melted. He was speechless, blinking rapidly to stop any tears from forming. Louis looked at him again, his eyes wide in panic, realising he shouldn’t have admitted such an intense thing to such a fragile boy. He thought about taking it back, saying sorry, but didn’t get a chance to.

“I think I love you too.” Harry almost whispered, giving a faint, honest smile.

Louis was relived for a moment, and then realised what was had just been spoken between the two. And it was true, he really did love Harry, not in a way that he had ever loved somebody before. Maybe it was too soon to be admitting something so intense, because after all they had only been together a couple of months. But their relationship was based on trust, and honesty, and who each other really were, as opposed to lust, and attraction, and the materialistic things.

Harry kissed Louis’ lips fully, with passion before resting his head back on Louis’ chest, a smile on his face. He wanted to stay like this for the rest of the night, but unfortunately their paradise was ruined.

“Lou! We’re getting pizza! Want some?” Niall’s voice yelled from downstairs.

Louis sighed, opening his eyes and checking the clock. It was 7:30p.m.

“Shit.” He mumbled softly, patting Harry on the head. “Better get you home anyway.”

Harry, who also had had his eyes closed, opened them groggily. He groaned in protest, but sat upright anyway, rubbing at his sore eye. He yawned, stretching his arms out.

The ride home was peaceful, with each boy smiling to themselves faintly.

Just as Harry got out of the car Louis said for the second time, “I love you.”

Harry grinned, and repeated, “I love you too. See you tomorrow.”

He continued to grin as he walked up the path to his house, and didn’t even roll his eyes when Tobias swung the door open in his usual professional manner.

“Evening, Tobias.” Harry spoke, his words slow and happy, dripping like honey.

“Good evening, Mr. Styles.” Tobias replied politely. “May I offer you a cup of tea?”

“No thanks. I’ll just grab some toast and head up to my room.”

He wandered into the immaculate kitchen that was barely used by neither himself nor his family and rummaged in the bread bin for two bits of bread that he popped into the toaster. As he waited Gemma walked in looking for an extra slice of cake that the chef had made that day.

“Hey wanker, how are…what happened to your eye?” She asked, taking in her brother’s appearance. His school uniform was the same, although a bit crinkled, his curls were messier than usual, and his left eye was red and bloodshot.

“Wha…oh, my eye? Just…I just” Harry stuttered, trying to find an excuse.

At his reddening cheeks his sister made a noise of disgust. “Actually, forget it. I really don’t want to know.” She found herself a plate and placed a large slice of Victoria sponge on it. “Anyway, you really need to be careful with this whole going off with your broke older male friend, Mum and Dad are starting to ask questions.” She took a fork and shoved a piece of the cake into her mouth.

“They are?” Harry asked, eyes wide, jumping as his toast popped out of the toaster.

“Yeah, don’t worry though, I’ve been stalling for you.” Gemma shrugged as if it were nothing. “Used the same excuse you gave me the first time. That you’d started going to a book club and because you’re back late you just grab your dinner when you get home.”

“And they…believed you?” Harry continued to ask as he buttered his toast.

“Seemed to,” Gemma explained, “well, Dad couldn’t care less either way. And Mum just accepted it. I could tell she couldn’t be bothered to go into detail about it. It just might be an idea to see your man friend after we’ve had dinner some days. Makes them less suspicious, although it’s not like they miss you to be honest.”

Harry took a bite of his toast and added, “His name’s Louis by the way, you know that.”

“Yeah I know,” Gemma shrugged, “just because I know his name doesn’t mean I have to like it, or use it.”

“You do like him, I can tell.”

“Yeah, he’s alright I suppose, considering where he’s from anyway.”

Harry just rolled his eyes at this, and instead decided to ask something that had been bothering him. “How come you’ve been so casual about this whole thing? Why are you suddenly sticking up for me? And talking to me…like we’re friends?”

Gemma finished off her cake and scoffed at him. “Please, we’re not friends. And the reason I’m sticking up for you? Because…Louis treats you well, I can tell. And he’s making you normal. It’s good for you, regardless of whether I like it or not. And…you look happy.” She gave him a hint of a smile before dumping her plate into the sink and walking out.

Harry chewed his toast in silence, thinking over what his sister had said, and what Louis had said earlier too. He couldn’t help but let the grin take over his face. Nothing would ruin that week for Harry, and especially not the most perfect day he had had.

And it was true.

Thursday Harry ate dinner at home as suggested by Gemma, and managed to ignore every insult Robin threw his way. Rather than pay attention and absorb, he just simply shrugged and continued to twirl the spaghetti around his fork. For once he managed to finish all of his dinner, and almost all of his pudding too.

When Anne asked how his book club was going, he told her, “Really good. We’re currently reading Lolita.” He took utter joy in the way Robin choked on his coffee in disgust.

“Is that…really appropriate for a children’s literary club?” Anne asked delicately.

“It’s not a children’s book club,” Harry defended his made up club, “it’s for young adults like me, who like to take books seriously. We read a lot of books like that. Ones which explore the human mind and body. They’re all very interesting.”

Anne couldn’t help but raise her eyebrows. “Well, I suppose if you’re enjoying it.”

“I am.” Harry replied quickly. Robin was silent throughout the conversation, and even as Harry got up to leave the dinner table never made a protest.

Gemma gave Harry a smirk as he left the table, secretly proud of his confidence. Harry smiled back gratefully before leaving, running to the front door to meet Louis who was sat outside in his car.

They went to the lake again that Thursday, this time Harry the one on his knees, to which Louis offered no argument.

On the Friday Louis had to work late, but picked Harry up the moment he finished at 8:30. They spent the evening with Niall and Zayn watching stupid videos on YouTube and playing ‘Never have I ever’. Harry barely had to drink at all, but took great joy in watching Niall drink to nearly every statement mentioned.

They took a break and went out into the garden for cigarettes, which Harry was more than happy to join in with despite Louis’ protest. He noticed, however, that Zayn and Niall’s smokes didn’t quite smell like the usual cigarette smoke that he was used to.

Weed, he realised. The smell was strange, somehow metallic. He concentrated on his own cigarette, but couldn’t help but look at the two daring boys in the corner of the garden sharing the joint between them.

Louis, who didn’t seem to take much notice, checked his phone.

“Shit,” Louis said, “Liam’s car’s conked out in the pub car park, I’ll have to go and get him.”

“Are you okay to drive?” Harry asked worriedly.

“Yeah, I’m fine. I’ve only had two beers, and that was half an hour ago. I’ll be okay, I promise. You can always come with?”

Harry looked over at Zayn and Niall before shaking his head. “No, I’ll be okay here. It’s okay. I love you.” He kissed Louis on the lips, and after that Louis went, promising to be back in fifteen minutes.

“Harry, don’t stand there like a loser, come over!” Niall called, waving Harry over.

The young boy did as he was told and wandered over to the two boys. He watched as Niall handed Zayn the joint, who took a pull.

“I’m really sorry Haz, does this bother you?” Zayn asked, noticing Harry staring.

“No! No, not at all. It’s fine.” Harry denied quickly, glad that his red cheeks couldn’t be seen in the darkness.

“Actually, can I err…can I try?” Harry had recently discovered a new flaw. His need to look and act cool. Because as the seventeen year old schoolboy he felt pathetically young and inexperienced, and at the sight of the joint he couldn’t help but be tempted.

“Are you sure?” Zayn asked.

“Yeah, are you sure Louis would be okay with that?” Niall added.

“It’s not up to Louis, is it? It’s my life, not his.” Harry said, frustrated all of a sudden and taking the joint from Zayn’s fingers.

He paused for a moment, debating whether he should really do it, knowing how angry Louis would be if he found out. Seconds later, he shrugged, and put the joint between his lips.

——————————————————————————————————

Harry watched the school fade away in the wing mirror as Louis drove, the taste of his last cigarette still lingering in his mouth.

“So,” Louis said, sparking up the conversation, “How was it today?”

Harry made a soft grunt. “Load of shit. People are just so arrogant there. They think they’re so much better than everyone else when really they’re just a load of privileged kids.”

“Hate to break it to you love, but you are also a privileged kid. Although not arrogant, thank God.” Louis smiled, keeping his eyes on the road but sensing the younger boy sitting next to him smile too.

“Could you ever imagine me acting like my sister? Or Robin, even worse.” Harry asked, sliding down in his seat a little and stretching his legs out.

“Hey, you’re sisters not that bad. She’s accepted me, which is more than I thought she’d ever do. Can’t speak for your step-Dad though. Never really met the fella. Seemed like a bit of an arse though when I waited at your party on Friday."

“He’s more than an arse, Lou. He’s ruined my life by treating me like shit and I’m sick of it,” Harry paused for a moment before admitting, “he scares me.”

 Louis’ face dropped at his partners confession, thinking of all the nights Harry had to live feeling so alone before he’d met him. Louis just wanted to take Harry away. Harry may have a lot of money, a big house, and a brilliant education, but nothing seems worth it when there is no one to enjoy it with.

Remembering the night he met him, Louis thought of how small Harry looked compared to now. It’s crazy how just two months can change a person. The seventeen year old had caught his eye immediately that first night at Bert’s family dinner. Louis thought it was hard to imagine Harry not catching anyone’s eye. For starters his unruly curls are hard to miss, but beyond that sit such mesmerising green eyes that hold such emotion if one were to look properly. But that was the trouble, no one ever did.

Most people who surround themselves in Harry’s lifestyle would take one look at him and nothing more. With that one look they examine the materialistic.  The clothing, is it expensive? Shoes, are they clean? His teeth, are they white? They couldn’t tell, because he never smiled. But yes, he’s rich, he belongs here, he’s allowed, and then they move on.

Louis wouldn’t even dream of living such a life. He took his eyes off of the road for a split second to glance at his unofficial boyfriend.

“You don’t have to be scared anymore y’know?” Louis offered, slowing his speed as they entered the town centre.

“Not with you I don’t.” Harry confirmed. “But with Robin it’s just different. I’m not a son to him, I’m just…there. But at the same time without Robin my family wouldn’t have anything. My Mum, and Gemma, they’d be lost.” He huffed, hating admitting how weak he felt.

Louis smiled, not really knowing what to say to comfort his boyfriend at that current moment. “Fancy a coffee? I’m parched.”

Louis swung the car into a free parking space before waiting for Harry’s response. Once Louis had killed the engine and taken his seatbelt off Harry placed his hand on the older boy’s knee.

“I’m sorry,” he said, greens eyes glistening. “I just had to get that off of my chest. I’ve never really spoken to anyone about how Robin makes me feel before. It’s just…I’m just so glad I met you. I mean it.” Harry looked into Louis’ eyes, praying that he didn’t think the younger boy was stupid or pathetic. But instead, Louis gave a toothy grin.

“Good. I’m happy I met you too. And I want you to talk to me. About anything. You’re so important to me Haz, I don’t ever what you to feel hurt or upset. Especially not when it’s some stupid man who can’t even see how amazing you are. Don’t worry. One day you’ll grow up and move away and you’ll never have to see him again.”

Harry gave a small smile, thankful for the kind words. He unbuckled his seatbelt and exited the car, meeting Louis on the pavement. 

“Thank you,” he said just before planting a kiss on Louis’ lips. Weeks ago he wouldn’t have even dared do such a thing. Not in the middle of the town centre where people where briskly walking up and down the streets. But that small moment of love between the two filled him with pride and confidence. His cheeks still blushed, and his eyes couldn’t help but dart this way and that to see if anyone was looking. But it meant a lot, to both him and Louis judging by the goofy smiles on their faces.

“Come on,” Louis said, taking Harry’s hand. “There’s a coffee shop just down here. You don’t mind, do you?” he asked, indicating to their interlocked hands. Harry shook his head straight away, giving Louis’ hand a gentle squeeze with his own.

“Nah. Who cares right? It’s not like anyone who would care would recognise me anyway.” Harry admitted truthfully. Even if his Mother’s best friend walked past, she wouldn’t give a second glance. She probably couldn’t pick Harry out of a line up.

As they walked the short journey they did receive a few looks. A few older people scoffed at the pair, shaking their heads slightly but never uttering a word. One boy around the same age as Louis grinned as he walked past, patting a hand on his shoulder and saying, “Alright, Tommo?” He looked at Harry, “Alright Tommo’s other half?” 

Harry just blinked and watched the boy walk away. “Friend from school,” Louis shrugged, guiding Harry to a shop with tables and chairs outside.

They ignored two Mothers sat with babies on their laps who said to each other loud enough to hear, “Amazing, isn’t it? How freely they express themselves these days? It’s disgusting.”

“What do you fancy?” Louis asked, grabbing his wallet from his pocket and they walked into the shop.

“Don’t be stupid, you always pay.” Harry said, retrieving a £5 from his own wallet. “A latte’s fine.”

Louis huffed but accepted the money anyway and ordered the drinks. Harry glanced around the shop. It wasn’t too busy, but it was rather loud with a table of young girls giggling to themselves and a screeching baby the next table over. The only person he recognised was his Mathematics teacher who had embarrassed him earlier that day. He was sat in a corner with his laptop, looking rather fed up at the noise around him. The shop was in the nicer area of town, but due to the cheaper prices it was the prime place for teenagers. Harry just smiled to himself, trying not to laugh as the teacher took a gulp of his black coffee, spilling it down his white shirt in the process.

“Here,” Louis said, handing Harry a takeout cup. “Want to sit somewhere else? It’s kind of noisy in here.”

“Sure,” Harry said, leading the way back out of the door. Outside it was much quieter due to the chilly weather, with only a few of the tables and chairs taken, one of course being the two Mothers. One looked directly at Harry, eyes narrowed slightly. 

He stared right back with a smile. “We can sit out here if you like?” He said to Louis behind him, noticing how the woman’s eyes narrowed even further.

Louis just followed as Harry moved past the two women, taking a seat near a business-like man with thick glasses and a cigarette hanging from his mouth as he typed furiously at a laptop.

“Good idea. It’s nice today. Cold, but nice.”  Louis noted, looking up at the clear sky. He took a sip from his drink and turned back to Harry. “When are you eighteen?”

Harry blinked a couple of times. “Uh…not until February. Why?”

Louis shrugged. “Just wondering. I suppose it’s just the novelty of dating a seventeen year old is getting a bit tiresome now.” Smirking as he watched Harry’s face fall in confusion. “I’m joking you idiot.” He laughed nudging Harry’s arm with his fist. “I was just wondering when I could start taking you out for a proper drink.”

“Oh,” Harry laughed, feeling a little silly, “well it’s still three months yet. A month after and I leave school…finally.” He took a sip of his own drink, licked his bottom lip and said, “So we’re dating are we?”

“Huh?” Louis asked, his attention previously on the younger boys tongue.

“You said the novelty of dating a seventeen year old was getting boring. So…we’re dating?” Harry and Louis had never truly confirmed what they’re relationship was. To anyone it seemed obvious that they were boyfriends, or at the very least dating. But these words had never been confirmed between the two of them.

“Well, I suppose that’s kind of obvious isn’t it?” Louis smirked. “We’ve been on dates so...we’re dating.”

“I think we’ve done more than go on dates.” Harry grinned, his voice huskier than was necessary causing Louis to blush.

“You little shit,” Louis laughed, “you can’t talk to me like th-”

“Excuse me?”

Louis and Harry turned in their seats to look at who had interrupted their conversation. It was the mothers. They were both staring at the two boys, one with her brown hair slicked back into a ponytail and the other with blonde curls. She slapped her toddler’s chubby hand away as it went to pull on one of the golden ringlets.

“Can I help you?” Louis asked confused, knowing full well he didn’t recognise either of the two women. They seemed as if they came from Harry’s side of town judging by the brand of their jumpers, but it was clear Harry didn’t recognise them either.

“Yes, I would like you to move please.” The one with the ponytail said.

“Pardon?” Louis said, eyebrows raised slightly.

“I said I would like you and your…hussy to move. You’re making my friend and I, and most importantly our children feel uncomfortable.” The children in question couldn’t have been less bothered about the male couple as they giggled and chewed their fingers.

“Is it illegal for me and my boyfriend to be here?” Louis asked, placing emphasis on the word boyfriend making Harry’s heart swell. He watched as his boyfriend’s shoulders squared, his eyebrows raised and his eyes squinted. Louis had his bitch face on, and it couldn’t have turned Harry on more.

“No, it’s not illegal. But it’s wrong and disgusting.” The other woman chirped up, tossing her blonde hair over her shoulder.

“Well I think your quite evident boob job is wrong and disgusting and I feel sorry for your poor child. But you know what? It’s a free world and I don’t judge you, so leave us alone, yeah?” Louis gave a sarcastic smile and was ready to turn back around when one of the women shouted.

“You’re a perverted little boy, and I won’t stand for this homosexual filth.” Harry and Louis both raised their eyebrows at each other, Louis opened his mouth to speak but he was interrupted.

“Are these boys bothering you, ma’am?” The man sat at the other table spoke. He looked up from his computer and took the cigarette from his mouth into his fingers.

The women sighed in relief, the ponytailed on replying, “Yes they are. I assume they’re bothering you too?”

Louis had a face of fury, while Harry just looked on astonished and embarrassed.

“No, they’re not bothering me. You’re bothering me.” His voice was sooth and full of etiquette despite the cigarette he was puffing from.

The two women looked at each other, and back to the man. “I beg your pardon?” One said, full of shock.

“These boys have every right to be here enjoying themselves as we do. They’re gay, not murderers, and not rapists. It is not illegal, it is not a sin. If you have a problem with them expressing their relationship just like you do with your children or no doubt with your husband’s then please remove yourselves. The problem here lays with you and your arrogance, not these guys.”

Louis had lowered his head and was giggling into his shoulder while Harry just continued to watch, a smile forming.

“I will absolutely not remove myself! These two disgu-” The blonde haired one argued back. She was interrupted by a hand on her shoulder.

“What’s the problem here?” A man asked, his arms flexing with muscle.

The blonde shoved his hand away and stood up, her child held on her waist. “My friend as I asked these boys to move as they were being rude.”

The man, who was clearly the manager, raised his eyebrows at the two boys in question. Neither knew what to say but it seemed the manager wasn’t looking for their answer.

“And what exactly was rude?” he turned back to the women.

“They’re…they’re gay.” The ponytailed one hissed.

“I see,” the manager breathed a huge sigh of annoyance, “well I can only see one option here. I don’t stand for arrogance. Neither my staff nor my customers should have to put up with it. Please leave. You’re more than welcome to return, but if you spout your homophobic nonsense again you won’t be invited back.”

There was silence for a moment. The women were clearly in shock, as were Harry and Louis who could only watch and snigger as the two women collected their things and held their heads high as they left their table. The businessman had returned to his laptop, seemingly unfazed by the last five minutes.

“Sorry about that, lads, I can only apologise.” The manager said, clearing away the cups at the now empty table.

“No worries, mate. Thank you.” Louis smiled, his voice genuine and pure. The manager just nodded and returned back to the hustle and bustle inside. “And thanks for standing up for us. You didn’t have to do that.” Louis turned to the businessman.

He grunted as if to say ‘no problem’ as he lit another cigarette and started typing at his laptop again.

Louis let out a long exhale. “Fuck me, that was intense wasn’t it?” He leaned back in his chair and looked at the younger boy. “You okay?” he noticed Harry had been very quiet since the whole ordeal.

Harry looked up, straight into Louis’ eyes, leaned across the table, a hand behind the boys head and kissed him furiously. Louis made a noise of surprise; eyes wide open before closing them and smiling into the kiss.

“You’re the best thing that ever happened to me.” Harry whispered against Louis’ lips. Louis smiled, never thinking he’d ever hear anyone say those words to him. The most meaningful and beautiful phrase. He kissed the younger boy in response, a soft and gentle kiss.

They pulled away, smiling to themselves. Louis looked down at his cup, swirling the coffee around. “Still scared?” he asked.

“Terrified.” Harry said, taking Louis’ hand. “But maybe not so much. Robin’s just going to have to deal with it. Just like everyone else, right?”

“Right.” Louis agreed, downing the rest of his coffee. He stood up as Harry took his last gulp. “Back to mine?”

“Sure.” Harry said, picking up his school bag at his feet. He fished a £10 from his wallet and slapped it down on the businessman’s table. “Buy yourself a drink on me. Something stronger maybe.” Harry said.

The businessman grunted again and gave a thumbs up. The boys left their table, but not before taking each other’s hands.

They walked back down the pavement, this time Harry took less care of the people that looked at them. If he wanted to be with Louis he’d have to stop caring about everyone else.

The idea of telling Robin and his Mother still frightened Harry, but he still had a while to come to terms with it. And besides, who says he has to tell them about his boyfriend straight away? According to them Harry was still that shy, pale boy who had no friends. And he only had four months. Three until he was eighteen, and another month after that until he left school. Then he would be gone. He can do whatever he pleases, and he hoped that whatever it was involved Louis somehow, and he had a feeling it would.