#hsimagines

Prompt: The one where Harry proposed to you ... right?

"Harry come on! You’re taking forever, don’t wear your converse! Put your slip-ons on, oh my god it’s only here for 10 more minutes! I’m literally gonna go insane if I don’t catch this pikachu.” I said staring down at my phone while holding the door halfway open.

Harry scoffed, and started to tease me by putting his shoes on slower than ever. “Stupid pokemon. I will never understand.” He muttered underneath his breath.

“Come on! Come on! I’m leaving without you, bye!” I said, and sprinted out the door not looking back at him. “(y/n)! Wait for me!” I continued to sprint across the front yard completely ignoring him. I didn’t care, he has long legs I’m pretty sure he could catch up.

By the time I reached the end of the block to where the pikachu was, Harry caught up with me after a few moments. See, told you he’d catch up. With those long legs? There’s no denying it.

“You’re crazy you know that? It’s nearly 1am, and you’re out here catching a damn pikachu.” He said, while panting out of breath.

“Do you think this is a game? This is a lifestyle.” You pointed out.

“Lifestyle my ass.”

“Oh shut up, don’t knock it til you try it right babe?”

“Don’t mock me.”

“You started it.” You stuck your tongue out at him while your eyes were still averted towards your phone screen.

“I got it! I fucking caught a fucking pikachu!” You started to jump around in excitement while Harry just stared at you like you were the biggest dork on the planet.

“Yay!” He sarcastically cheered. “Can we go back inside the house now it’s cold out here.” He asked.

You groaned and rolled your eyes at him. “Fine... And thank you for coming out with me this late just to make sure I was safe, even though you hated every single second of it.” 

“S’okay, I mean I could’ve done without the running.” He joked.

“How about I make you a sandwich when we get home. That’s my prize to you for being the good boyfriend that you are.” You walked over to him and wrapped your arm around his waist and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“Deal, and you can pick the film tonight.” 

Harry

♡

I was home.

With her in my arms, breath fanning against the skin of my chest, I was home. But I was also hurting at the same time. I was hurting because I knew in the next few hours, we'd part ways, and I wouldn't be the one to hold her at night anymore. Soon, that part would be filled by another, and the thought caused my stomach to drop, mouth offering an odd taste with the promise of getting sick. Though, Ebony shifted in her sleep, causing a waft of her scent to fill my nose, soothing me.

And just like that, I was home again. - Ebony

♡

Hours Earlier

I was home.

With his hand grasped tightly in my own, feet falling into step as we both made it through my flat's door, I was home. And the moment we made it through the door and closing it behind us, his lips were on mine, moving lovingly and passionately as if they never parted. His hands locked themselves behind my waist, pulling me to him and pushing my body against the wood of the closed door. With a mind of their own, my hands traveled up his chest, massaging lightly there before locking themselves around his neck, sinking my fingers into the strands of his hair that rested there.

"Eb," he pulled away, pecking my lips before looking into my eyes. My breath was ragged as it left my lips, chest heaving up and down.

"You sure you want this? I don't want to do this if you don't want it. I'm not forcing you into anything."

I smiled softly, pulling him down to connect our lips once again. "I want this. For tonight, you're mine, yeah?" I spoke against his lips.

"Yeah," he groaned. "Yeah, for tonight, you're mine, and I'm yours."

I nodded, pushing my lips further into his, letting them mold together as his bottom lip fit nicely between my own. His hands slid themselves under my thighs as his lips left mine, pressing kisses to my cheek and jaw before finding my ear.

"Jump, baby," he whispered huskily, squeezing my thighs in order to accentuate his words. I complied with his words, taking the heels of my feet before jumping and allowing him to bring my legs around his waist. My legs were securely around his torso as his hands supported the underside of my thighs, his feet carrying me blindly through the flat towards the bedroom, lips messily moving against my own.

My hands latched onto the hairs on the back of his head as my elbows rested on his shoulder. Fingers tangled themselves into each strand, tugging lightly in an aching need to hear him. My need was granted as a rumbling groan traveled up his chest and vibrated against my mouth. Harry's foot moved up to kick the door open, walking through and shutting with his foot once again. In the next moment, I found myself on top of my mattress, Harry hovering over me as he looked over me. His eyes were soft and loving. It was a look I've missed dearly, a look that was utterly Harry - my Harry.

His hand moved to softly land on my cheek, thumb stroking the skin there as he continued to look over me. "You're so beautiful, Ebony. So damn beautiful."

My eyes were lost in his as his hand traveled down my body, finding the zipper on the back of my dress in order to pull it down. The tips of his fingers brushed against my skin, bringing goosebumps to the surface as he pushed my dress down my body, throwing it to the floor in a pile. There was a sharp intake of breath travel through his lips as he took sight of my topless self, having nothing underneath the dress besides my underwear.

"Jesus," he whispered roughly, diving forward in order to capture my lips in his. Immediately, I responded, moving my lips with his and opening my mouth slightly for his tongue to slip through, finding mine.

My hands found the hem of his shirt, tugging on it a few times before he realized what I wanted. Pulling back from the kiss, he stood on his knees, slipping the shirt of his body before throwing it absentmindedly on the floor. His eyes never left mine until he looked down to his jeans. There was a large bulge forming that caused heat to flow to my cheeks, setting them aflame. Harry's fingers worked fast to unbuckled his belt, popping open the button and undoing the zip. Soon, his jeans joined my dress and his shirt before he pushed forward, lips finding the skin of my neck, sucking and licking and driving me crazy.

"Oh God, Harry," I moaned as I felt his fingers skim the hem of my underwear before sinking into the fabric. I grew dizzy with the feel of his fingers on me, the cold metal of his rings setting my body into hyperdrive.

"Christ, baby," he groaned at the feel of me. "You're so wet for me." Pulling his hand back, he hooked his pointer finger into the fabric, pulling the lace down my legs and onto the floor - joining the rest of our clothes. I was aching for him, positively aching. My fingers found the band of his boxers, desperately pulling them down his legs in order to reveal him to me, and I grew dizzy with the sight of him, completely ready for me.

"Harry, please," my hips shifted on the mattress. "Please."

"You ready for me, love?" His eyes were dark as they looked over at me, though they held a bout of concern that made me feel the deep-rooted love I felt for him all over again. I nodded, desperately. "Yes, I'm ready. Please."

Harry nodded, hand gripping himself softly as he rubbed up and down my folds, finding my opening. Once his hips shifted forward, I nearly passed out, a gasp sounded through my lips as Harry grunted lowly.

"Eb," he moaned, lips finding mine. I attempted to move my mouth with his, though the farther he pushed into me, the more difficult it became. Soon, our lips were unable to move against one another, simply pressing together once he was fully inside of me. "Jesus, I've missed this," Harry groaned. "Missed you."

His hips shifted back before moving forward again, knocking the wind out of me. "Missed you, too," my voice was breathless as I spoke before he continued thrusting into me. "Oh God."

Harry only groaned in response, hand finding mine and weaving his fingers through the spaces between mine allowing our intertwined hands to rest on the mattress near my head. Each drive into me was deep, thoroughly rendering me near the point of no return. The feel of our bodies finally connected once again was something indescribable, something I couldn't really define. All I knew was it caused a heat to course through my veins with each thrust of his hips.

My hand gripped onto Harry's neck, pulling the hair that's rested there. Unable sit still, I could feel my hips rising, meeting his with each rhythmic thrust.

"Shit," his voice was tensed as my hips continued to meet his, Harry's face falling into the crook of my neck. "You feel so good around me, Eb," my nails dug into his back, dragging them down hard enough for pink lines to arise, marking him in remembrance of our last night together. "Yes, yes. Just like that, baby. Yes."

"Don't stop, Harry," I pleaded, feeling his fingers trail down my body, finding my sensitive bundle of nerves in order to circle it with the pad of his fingers. "Oh my God."

And with one more circle of his fingers, I tensed, clinging to Harry as my orgasm ripped through me. His name left my lips in a desperate scream as my breaths came out shallow, white searing through my vision. I could feel a pulse everywhere in my body as Harry pushed into me once more before he reached his own high as well.

"Baby," he groaned, stilling inside of me as I could feel his warmth fill me.

Finally, as we both began to come down, Harry collapsed backwards on the other side of the body, his arms finding me enough to pull me against him. Our skin was clammy, hearts racing, and my breath panted against his neck as my head rested on his shoulder, his arms securely around my waist.

"Harry," I whispered his name, exhaustion coursing through my body. For a moment, he didn't respond, making me think sleep had already found him. But a deep rumbling hum told me otherwise.

"Hmm," was all he said, pulling me closer to him.

"I slept with someone else." I hadn't the slightest clue what compelled me to say that, how I could possibly think he deserved to know. Though, with my words, Harry stiffened before relaxing.

"It's fine, Eb."

I sighed. "It was Ian."

"It's fine. You don't owe me an explanation." His voice was strained.

"I know," was all I said.

There was a bout of silence between the two of us, his arms still holding me closely. "I'm sorry, Eb. For everything."

My eyes drooped with exhaustion. "I know."

"I never wanted to hurt you."

"I know."

I didn't want to talk anymore. I didn't want to hurt anymore. So, I simply snuggled further into his chest, absorbing everything that was Harry. And as my mind drifted closer and closer off, I could hear Harry's soft voice rasp four dizzying words.

"I still love you."

And just like that, I was home.

-

In the morning, I woke up to an empty bed, a note replacing Harry's form.

'Thank you for last night. I hope to see you soon. Goodbye, Eb. Yours Always, H .x'

And for once, I didn't feel numb. I didn't feel pain. I felt at home. - Harry

♡

I was home.

Leaving her didn't cause me any pain. It didn't cause an ache in the pit of my stomach, and it didn't eat at me. In fact, I was finally allowed to miss her in the right way as I drew myself farther and farther away from her. I missed her, yes. I wanted her, yes. But it didn't pain me to think of her. I was home whenever I thought of her.

"Hey, Mum," I answered her phone call as I made my way into my flat, a happiness glow settling through me.

"Hi, my baby," her voice caused a smile to curve my lips. "How are doing, my love? On your home, I hope."

Closing the door, I smiled to myself, nodding my head though she couldn't see me. "Of course I am, Mum. Just gotta do some last minute packing, and I'll be home."

"Good," I could hear the smile in her voice. "Now, answer my question, how are you feeling?"

"I'm feeling at home, Mum."

-

Ebony

♡

He was waiting outside my flat the second my heels took a single step out of the door. His eyes were sad as they looked over at me, and my stomach clenched in realization.

"Ian, shit. We were supposed to have drinks last night. I-"

"What'd you do last night, Ebony?" His voice was gruff, sounding as if he didn't have one second of sleep in him.

"Ian, please. I just-"

He cut me off once again. "What were you doing last night, Ebony?"

I was silent, looking down to my feet.

"You were with him, weren't you?"

"It wasn't like that, Ian. It was just one last time. We both needed it, and it was closure," I pleaded, stepping forward only to have him step away from me. My heart sunk. "Ian," I whispered lightly.

"Don't," he shook his head, making his way to his flat. He never turned to look over at me. "He left you, Ebony. I've always been here."

"Ian, I-" His flat door slamming closed cut me off, silencing me with its echoing noise. I sighed loudly, and it was as if my feet had a mind of their own because in an instant, they were carrying me over to the entrance of Ian's flat. Though, before I could make any real progress in that direction, my phone vibrated in my hand, cutting my steps short. Looking down, I saw a single message waiting in wake, and I nearly cursed aloud with the contents of it.

'Bev: Saw a few headlines today. Glad to see some kid who left you is more important than making up with your sister. Nice priorities you've got yourself, Ebony.'

Ebony

♡

It's funny how you could feel so safe in the arms of the one who had the potential to do the most harm. But that's exactly how I felt laying in Harry's embrace, the feeling of safety outweighing the potential dangers. "I love you," he whispered down to me, kissing me on my forehead. "I love you so much."

I snuggled into his bare chest - it was warm and slightly damp from our recent activities, and the pace of it moved faster with each breath he took, the beat of his heart pounding against the point where my ear rested. Pressing my lips to the skin there, I sighed in contentment. "And I love you, Harry."

I dwelled there in the magic of the moment, succumbing to the beauty of giving yourself to someone you loved for the first time. And I clung to it - clung to him and the moment, never wanting it to end. This moment, and the moment before, was perfect in every sense of the word. As I could feel every bit of Harry pressed to me, I fell in love all over again. So, I told him just that.

"Harry," I whispered, ready to express to him my every whim, though as I spoke, his grip around me was no longer relaxed. It was tensed and almost as if holding me was unwelcomed to him. Turning my head, I looked up at him - only to see his eyes narrowed as he looked over at me, brows furrowing.

"Who are you?" He whispered, and I felt my heart drop.

"Why are we in bed together? Who are you?"

"Harry," I choked out. "This isn't funny. I'm your girlfriend."

"No, you're not."

"Yes, I am. Stop it," I hissed, pulling myself from his unwelcomed grip and sitting up full. "You love me, stop it." In this moment, his eyes turned cold and distance, green nearing an almost black color as he looked over at me. Then an almost venomous, emotionless laugh was uttered from his lips. "I don't love you. Who could possibly love you?"

I shook my head, desperately trying to ward off the demons threatening to surface from my mind.

"No," I whimpered. "Don't say that... don't. Y-You love me. You just said so." He shook his head, smirking menacingly. "I don't love you. No one loves you."

"Please, don't do this to me," I begged, my head falling to make eyes contact with my bare legs. My body was vulnerable in its naked state. I felt the familiar sting in my eyes, and a choking sound escaped my lips as I found an odd lack of air surrounding me.

"Please, don't."

"Pathetic," I heard him say causing a sob to rip through my chest, setting my body on fire. "Bloody pathetic." "Please," I begged, though I wasn't entirely sure what I was begging for.

"Please."

"Ebony," his voice was distant, fading.

"Ebony." -

"Ebony. Can you hear me? Ebony?" My eyes jerked over to see Marnie standing inside the confines of my office. Her eyes held a bout of concern as she looked over at me, eyebrows laying heavily on top of her eyes with a furrowed middle. Taking a deep breath, I attempted to overcome the shaky nature in which I felt coursing through my head - my hands almost shaking on my desk.

"Marnie," I breathed, taking note in the uneasiness of my voice in hopes I could rectify it. "Marnie, I'm sorry. Uh... what is it you need?"

"Are you okay?" She asked, drawing out the 'ay' in 'okay'.

"Yes, yes," I assured, waving her off. "Just a bit of daydreaming, I suppose." Marnie looked at me skeptically before nodding her head. "Well, if you're sure, a car is here to take you to the venue where Ms. Walters will be interviewing you."

I nodded, smiling softly as I stood up in order to smooth out my skirt. Taking a deep breath, I assured her of my emotional stance with the words, "I'm sure."

-

'Ian: Good luck with your interview, little miss editor. Charm the pants off of Ms. Barbara Walters as I know you will. Drinks tonight to celebrate? Break a leg, love.'

Ian.

Ian. A name that has been become so important in my day-to-day life. Ian. A man who has brought me from the depths of my misery only to have me fall back into them once I was away from. He was a man that slept in my bed every single night with the most innocent connotation. He was a man that has tried repeatedly to save me from myself, but really, I was the only one who could save myself.

'As long as the drinks are on you, definitely. Say around 8?'

His reply was back in seconds, surprising me with his swiftness. 'It would be an honor, Ms. Acker.' "Ms. Acker," a woman spoke smiling at me as I sat in a chair, waiting to be called back. "Ms. Walters is ready for you, dear."

I nodded my head as I stood from my seat, smoothing the fabric of the skirt of my dress before tossing my phone inside my purse-like clutch. My lips curved into a polite smile as the woman cocked her head to the side before walking in a statement for me to follow her, so I did just that.

We walked down a long hallway, passing a few doors before we rounded ones with a metal plate on it, reading 'Interview Studio'. The woman stopped in front of that door before she opened it, and I nodded to her as I stepped through it. She smiled warmly before closing the door as I made my way entirely through it.

"You must be Ebony Acker," a voice spoke, and as I looked up, my head nearly grew dizzy with the sight in front of me. Barbara Walters and all her grace smiled over at me kindly as she offered me her hand. "It's a real pleasure to meet you."

"Oh, wow," I mumbled, and she chuckled. I shook my head, a pink tint on my cheeks. In an effort to better her first impression of me, I shook her hand, smiling widely. "I mean, it's lovely to meet you as well. I just... I'm a bit starstruck if I'm being honest. You're just... amazing. Wow. Can't really believe I am standing in the same room as you."

"Well, thank you, my dear," she smiled warmly. "You're very kind. Are you ready for the interview?"

I nodded, quickly. "Absolutely."

"Then let's do this." - "All right, dear, I just have a few questions for you to answer, and as soon as the director says action, we'll start, yeah?"

We now sat opposite of each other, both residing in large comfy chairs. Barbara sat with an iPad in her lap, and I presumed it had all the questions typed up for the interview. I nodded my head, smiling as my makeup artist, from the studio, finished up her final touches onto my face before she nodded her head, apparently approving how I looked.

"All set?" Barbara asked, smiling warmly.

"Seem to be," I returned her gesture.

"Let's get this done."

With the director's call of action, that was just what we did. One of the camera pointed towards Barbara as she greeted the audience who will be watching this.

"I am currently here with a young lady who has been talking the fashion world by storm. She is the editor of her very own fashion magazine of the title 'Ebony & Ivory'. And within five months of starting the magazine, she is already making an outstanding name for herself. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Ebony Acker." The camera panned out to show both Barbara and me as we sat in the chairs.

"Hello, Ebony," she smiled over at me, and I returned the expression.

"Hi. Thank you so much for having me. This is a real honor," I made sure to keep my voice dignified. Ava called this my 'business voice.'

"Thank you for coming," she returned before looking down at her iPad briefly. "So, you obviously have many people in love with the work you do with your magazine. Can you explain how you went about acquiring such a prestigious job?"

"Well," I began. "My parents are pretty well known within the business world, and this woman of the name Celia Edwards had a magazine that wasn't doing very well, so she somehow recognized my name from my parents. She saw the work I'd done in Uni and internships with journalism. In year three of university, I was offered the position of editor and chief of her fashion magazine, and she gave me permission to do what I thought was needed to get it at proper rates and whatnot. Then, Ebony & Ivory was born."

"That's such a unique name for a magazine, how did it come about exactly?"

"I've always had a thing for black and white fashion. Normally, I don't center my wardrobe around it, but I do always find it so classy for a red carpet event or something of that nature. And so, I thought a magazine centered around monochrome fashions with pops of color here and there was something so different, and I loved the elegance behind it. Also, and I've never told anyone this, but my best friend, Ava Beaumont, helps with the fashion magazine all the time. She's like a second editor, and she's helped me all through the production of it. And well, she's blonde, and I'm brunette, so we're kind of like Ebony and Ivory to an extent. Plus, my name's Ebony." Barbara chuckled a bit. "So, that's how the name came to be?"

"Yeah," I nodded, giggling. "When we were younger, my parents would call us Ebony and Ivory because we were always attached at the hip, and we could never be separated. So, it only seemed fitting."

"What a lovely story," she smiled.

"Now, you said the woman who offered you the job recognized your last name, and she linked it with your parents? Do you feel you only got this job because of your parents' success?"

I sighed, "I'm not going to pretend that didn't have anything to do with me getting the job, but I'd also like to think Celia saw my work from Uni and whatnot, realizing I did have some talent in the field I am now in. And I hope I've now set a name for myself apart from my parents. Now, don't get me wrong, I love my mum and dad. They are very successful within their company and what they do, and half of making it somewhere in this world is connections, knowing people. But I don't want everything I succeed in be because I'm my parent's daughter. I want to make a name for myself because I'm hard-working and good at what I do."

"And that's very admirable. I'd say you've succeeded in that, dear," she smiled.

"Thank you," I nodded my head, a small smile curving my lips.

"I also want to know how you feel about all these A-list designers, such as Michael Kors, commenting on your work within the magazine," she began. "Mr. Kors himself even had this to say about you, 'She's inventive, something the fashion world values in many ways. I find myself thinking of ways to incorporate the styles she portrays in her magazine because of the shear genius behind it.' Is that crazy for you to hear?"

"Of course it is," I drew in a shaky breath. "I mean when I first read he said that, I nearly passed out. It almost seems unreal. I've always had such a love for fashion, so for all these designers, that have turned the fashion world around, to actually notice me is something I can't believe. It's an honor, absolutely. But it's so surreal, I almost can't believe it. Michael Kors is crazy talented, and for him to say he tries to incorporate the styles I portray in my magazine is probably the most amazing thing I've ever heard. It's insane."

"Can you believe all of this has happened in about five months time?"

"Honestly, I keep waiting for it to be all a dream I wake up to. We've only had five issues published since it's a monthly magazine, and there's all this buzz about it. Like I said, it's surreal. But I'm basking in it because there may come a time where this is all a memory. For now, I'm living in every moment I'm given."

Barbara nodded. "We have one more question," she informed, and I nodded. "I figured I couldn't get away without asking you this one. So, it's been known you've recently had a split with your long-term boyfriend, Harry Styles." I sucked in a breath at the mention of his name, and all I could muster was a nod.

"Can you explain to me what happened there?"

"We grew apart, I suppose," I shrugged.

"Harry is a lovely man, always has been. And I will always care for him, no doubt. But sometimes, no matter how much you want a relationship to work out, it just doesn't. I don't blame him, by any means. It just didn't work out." Barbara nodded, a sad smile gracing her lips. "Thank you for being here, Ebony."

"Thank you so much for having me." That was when the actor yelled 'cut', and it was over.

-

"It was amazing, Ava," I gushed as I made my way out of the studio, smiling over at the woman who had escorted me to interview room. "I mean, Barbara was amazing, and she was classy and poised. I just hoped she liked me. It was just amazing."

"Sounds great, Ebbie," I could hear the smile in her voice as I walked through the doors into the cold sidewalks. However, my footsteps came to a halt as I took in the green eyes staring at me as he leaned against the side of the building - green eyes I dreamt about. His eyes were slow as they traveled up my body, a smirk curving his lips. My head grew fuzzy with the sight of him. "Um... Aves," I spoke, cutting her off from whatever she was saying. "I'm going to have to let you go."

"But, Ebo-"

"I'll call you back later, promise," I hung up.

"Eb," his voice was raspy and low, and I almost cried with the sound of it speaking my name.

I shook my head as he made his way off the wall and over to me. A smell that was just so Harry wafted through the air, and I was dizzy. "Wh-what are you doing here, Harry?"

"Eb," his hand reached out for me, and his thumb gently stroked the skin of my cheek. "Eb, I'm so proud of you."

I closed my eyes for a moment before backing away from his touch. Tears stung at my eyes as I looked around the streets, making sure no one took notice in our interaction.

"What are you doing here?" I spoke again, demanding an answer this time. He shrugged. "I missed you. Needed to see you."

"Harry..." I trailed.

He stepped forward, taking my face into his palms. "Found out about your interview. 'M proud, Ebony. So proud." "Harry," a single tear slipped down my cheek, and I felt Harry's lips kiss it away.

I closed my eyes with his proximity, and his forehead found a home resting on my own. "I just need one more night with you, Eb. One night with you as mine, and I'll never bother you again. Just one night, please."

"Harry," I was unable to speak any other word than his name. My eyes remained closed, completely and utterly overwhelmed with his presence. "Harry."

"One more night," he begged, and I could hear the desperation in his voice. I was silent.

Ebony

♡

'Hey, I know we're not on speaking terms, but I'd really like to talk things over with you. I'm sorry for what I did, for all I did. Please, though, can we just talk? I really want to talk things through. I'm really sorry. Call me once you see this. Or text me. Please. Thanks.'

My eyes flitted over the screen, scanning through the words before I deemed it worthy enough to press send. I sighed once the message was declared as 'sent', and my stomach began to churn for odd reasons. I knew there would be no response. No matter how many times I've texted her, pleading to talk things through, there was never a response, never a reprieve from the ache I felt in the pit of my stomach. I know I didn't deserve a reprieve, but I wanted one; needed one. I suppose that was what made me selfish, craving something I knew I'd never deserve, but it was something I simply embraced.

"Hey," a voice caused my head to fling up, eyes averting from the screen of my phone to find the green in Ian's. There was a bowl of popcorn in his hand as he looked from my phone to my face, eyes flirting across the surface of each. "Did you text her again?"

I sighed heavily before nodding my head. "I just really need her to text me back, Ian."

"Give her time, Ebony," he moved to sit next to me on the couch, smiling softly. "She's probably still a bit hurt from what happened at the engagement party. It's only been a few days, after all."

I nodded slowly. "I know. I just don't want to spend Christmas without my sister, you know? I've never spent the holidays without her, Ian." My fingers plucked at the fabric of my living room's couch, eyes watching their movements. "Don't want to start now." "Just give her some space, Ebbie," her repeated, leaning over to press a kiss to my cheek before leaning back to grab the remote. Before there was a chance to respond, Ian had already pressed play, starting the featured film of the night.

In all honestly, I don't think I could even begin to explain what the plot of the movie involved or who the main character was, for that matter. My mind was so far gone that I couldn't exactly process what was happening around me. The thoughts running through my head consisted of a Christmas without a sister and what the days entailed now for a certain long-hair, green-eyed boyband member. By the end of the movie, I wasn't sure if the film was happy, sad, or a bit of both, but the smile of Ian's face told me it might have resembled a comedy. In an effort to divert his possible suspicions, I attempted to paint a similar smile on my face. Though, once Ian's eyes found mine, his smile slowly slipping as he looked over at me, I knew he didn't buy any bit of it.

"Ebony," he sighed, and my so-called smile fell from my face.

He didn't have to say anything else. In fact, his voice was punctuated with his arms opening, an inviting warmth settling over them. And before I could think to stop myself, my body fell into his, melting into the warmth I knew was there. Ian's arm wrapped itself around my waist in an effort to pull me to him while his free hand gently combed its way through my hair.

"Everything will be all right, Eb," he promised, the single syllable nickname slipping from his lips. This time, however, it didn't cause as much of a sting as it usually did. In fact, it caused a dull ache to settle in the depths of my heart; an ache that was usually filled with Harry. Though, I didn't voice the ache, I simply snuggled further into the crook where Ian's neck met his shoulder, desperately needing the comfort I felt within his grip.

"Stay with me tonight?" I whimpered, unintentionally puckering my lips against the skin of his lower neck. His response was instantaneous. "Thought you'd never ask." - The fire crackled in the dark of the night, setting a handsome glow amidst the room. It warmed my entirety as I sat in front of it, a blanket wrapped itself around the expanse of my shoulders. There was a small glow from the Christmas tree that stood off to the side of the flat, looking brighter with the presence of the fire. Presents piled underneath the branches that caused a heavenly aroma to drift through the room. An aroma of fresh baked cookies, however, fought to dominate the room as sounds of the pans clanking could be heard from the kitchen. A giggle escaped my mouth when I heard a rather loud clank followed by a groan and a mocking laugh.

"Everything going okay in there?" I called as another bout of groans and giggles sounded.

"Your boyfriend is tearing apart the kitchen!" Beverly called back before I saw Harry teeter from the kitchen, grumbling about cookie batter. Offering him a small smile, I opened the blanket and my arms for him to which he happily accepted, sinking into the warmth the blanket and my embrace provided.

"Baking cookies was a bust, huh?" I giggled, gripping his hand in my mine to kiss his palm. He beamed down at me once my lips came into contact with his skin.

There was a smirk gracing his lips. "Your sister kicked me out. Said I was making too much of a mess."

"You were!" Bev called, and I laughed loudly as my eyes moved to the entrance of the kitchen, spotting Beverly grumbling to herself - which, naturally, caused me to laugh harder. Once my eyes moved back to Harry I found him already looking at me, a soft - nearly adoring - glow settling in his eyes. His hand came up to gently caress the skin of my cheek, thumb stroking the skin there. The touch left me frozen in the best way possible, lips parted as he stared at me lovingly.

"It's good to see you this happy," he whispered before placing his lips on mine.

"First, you screw up the cookie then I walk into the living room to see you groping my sister," Bev's voice caused us to break apart before the kiss could truly go anywhere as she made her way over to us. "Come on, Styles. Get your act together."

Harry leaned away from me, lower lip jutting out causing my urge to kiss him to infinitely heighten. "Wasn't groping her. Just kissed her, Bev. Jesus." Beverly laughed before grabbing another blanket from the couch and plopping down beside us. "Cookies are in the oven. Not thanks to Gropey McGee over here," she cocked her head towards Harry, laughing as his pout furthered. "So, let's pop in a festive film, yeah?"

Harry ended up picking the movie, choosing - what I knew he would - Miracle on 34th Street. Halfway through the film, however, all the baking must have gotten to him as fell asleep with his head on my lap, my fingers weaving through his hair. Bev looked over at him after a rather loud snore slipped passed his lips. She smiled softly as she looked over at us.

"Quite a guy, huh?" She hummed.

"Yeah," I smiled, looking down to his peaceful face, lips puckering as his nose twitched slightly. My hand moved to lightly comb through the hair that landed on his forehead in order for the hairs to no longer obstruct his features.

"He is."

"You really like him, don't you?" I looked over at her, seriousness settling over his features. "Pretty sure I'm in love with him."

Her eyes glazed over into a look of utter coldness, features hardening to match her eyes. "Then why'd you do it?" My eyebrows furrowed at her sudden change in tone and demeanor. "Wh-what?"

Suddenly, the scene changed. Harry was no longer asleep in my lap, and as I looked about the flat, I noticed it was no longer my flat I was sitting in. It was in Beverly's.

Harry was nowhere to be found, and his lack of presence caused my entirety to become icy cold, nearly burning with the need of Harry.

"How could you, Ebony?" Beverly's voice sounded, and I looked up to see her standing directly in front of me. The flat was completely empty, but there were decorations I recognized as the one's Ava and I used for the engagement party scattered about. "How could you bring him to my engagement party? How could you say those things?"

"Bev, I-"

"He broke my heart, yet you brought him to what was supposed to be one of the best days of my life," she nearly cried. "I was supposed to be celebrating my happiness, and you ruined it. Just like Harry ruined you."

I felt tears - I hadn't realized filled my eyes - spill over to my cheeks, cascading down. A choked sob escaped through my throat. Before I had the chance to speak, Beverly was gone, and Harry replaced her.

"You're pathetic, you know that," his eyes were so harshly dark that I hardly recognized them to be the green I fell in love with. A stone, cold glare settled over my features causing my stomach to drop. He wasn't the man I fell in love with, no. He was unrecognizable. "Did you seriously think I loved you?"

I shook my head, sobbing as I turned my back to him. I could still, however, hear his venomous voice in my ear, furthering the dull ache in my heart.

"You're pathetic," he spoke again.

"Pathetic."

"Please, stop," I cried, dropping to my knees as my hands tangled through my hair, pulling on the roots. "Please." "Ebony," his voice was slightly softer, though I could still detect the venom. He still wasn't my Harry. "Ebony." - "Ebony, wake up, love. Come back to me." A set of hands were at my shoulders, shaking me awake. As soon as my eyes opened, meeting those green ones I never dreamed about, a breath of relief was exhaled from Ian's lips. His shoulders slowly slumped from their previous tense position before he pressed his lips to my cheek. It was then I noticed the moisture on the skin there. My breath hitched in a threat to cry. "I-Ian," I looked up at him, fresh tears falling down my cheeks. Half of his body hovered over me as he looked over at me with sad eyes. I sunk further into the mattress, trying to alleviate my mind of those cold green eyes. "Hey, you're okay now," his thumb stroked my cheeks. "It was just a dream." I nodded, taking a steadying breath. In a moment of weakness, I wrapped my arms around Ian's neck, pulling his body on top of my own. He landed on me with a muffled groan as his face became buried within my shoulder. I gripped the back of his neck in an attempt of keeping him close to me, needing his warmth. "Sorry for waking you," I mumbled into his neck, my lips moving against his skin with my words. "Don't worry about me. I'm just glad you didn't wake up from that alone," Ian moved his head to press a kiss to my cheek. "Glad I was here." "Me too," I whispered, tightening my grip on him. It was then I realized just how true that statement was. For the first time in a long time, I had someone hold me after waking up from a painful dream. For the first time in a long time, there was someone who cared enough to wake me up and actually hold me. There was someone to whisper comforting words as he attempted to bring me back to him. It was nice. And for the first time in a long time, I felt safe. "Me too," I whispered again, praying he knew just how truthful I was being. - "Please, Beverly," I spoke into the mouthpiece of my phone that following morning as I made my way to work. In a desperate need for my sister, I called her only to reach her voicemail - again.

"I know you hate me, I get it. But I need you, Bev. I need my older sister. So, please, just... call me. Okay, uh... bye."

I hung up the phone before I sighed as I walked into my office building. The receptionist was there to greet me, smiling softly, and I simply nodded in response before walking towards my office.

"Good morning, Ebony," Marnie smiled over at me as I rounded my office, her desk sitting directly in front of the office.

"'Morning, Marnie," I made my way to stand directly in front of her desk. "Any messages?"

She nodded. "Barbara Walters' assistant called to confirm the time of today's interview. I told her you'd contact her once you arrived at the office."

"Will do," I mentally noted to call her back. "Thank you very much, Marnie." "Of course, Ms. Ack- I mean, Ebony." Offering her one last smile, I made my way towards my office, stepping inside only to see Ava sitting on top of my desk, waiting for me while simultaneously surprising the hell out of me.

"Jesus, Aves," I clutched at my heart as it beat heavily underneath my skin. "You scared the shit out of me."

She smiled sheepishly before hopping off the desk in order to land on her heels. "Sorry, Ebbie. Didn't mean to. We haven't spoken in some time, and I was coming to see how you were doing, love."

"I'm all right." Was all I offered as I made my way to my desk, sitting down in the chair before looking back at Ava. "Oh, come on," she groaned. "I'm your best friend, and you can't muster up a little detail."

I sighed, closing my eyes momentarily before looking up at her. "I texted Harry."

"You what?" Her face dropped.

"I told him I no longer wanted any contact with him," I informed before she had a chance to think anything else. She blinked in surprise, moving closer to me. "I told him I was letting him and what we had go."

"Ebbie," she whispered, eyes seemingly shining with pride. "That's amazing. I'm proud of you."

"Thanks, Aves," I smiled softly. "I just think for the longest time I thought he could be the one to fix me, but really, I am the only one who can fix me." Ava nodded. "But I'll always be here to help, you know? Bev and I will always be here."

At Beverly's name, my heart dropped. My eyes found interest in the surface of my desk. "Yeah, I hope so." Ava's eyebrows furrowed, though before she had the time to respond, my phone vibrated against the hard surface of my desk - 1 New Message. I gripped it in my hand, opening up the message as I offered an apologetic smile to Ava.

Harry

♡

Her eyes were wide as she looked over at me, waiting for my answer to her question. There was a slight blush gracing her cheeks as I stared at her intently. Her body was adorned in a sleek black dress that accentuated each aspect of her curves. Single strands of hair fell on each side of her face, the rest of her hair being pulled into a bun behind her head. A slit in her dress showed off those perfect legs that I loved a bit too much. I could feel my heart stumbling beneath my chest at the mere sight of her, and knowing what this night entailed made my heart beat even more heavily. She was beautiful, and I was so proud of her.

"Jesus, Eb," I nearly groaned, and she smirked at my reaction, nearly sending me through the roof with just that single look. "God, you look beautiful. I can't- you're just so perfect."

"You don't look to bad yourself, Styles," she walked towards me, taking my hands in hers once she made it over to me. Kissing me on the cheek, she pulled back in order to look at me, and there was a gleam in her eyes that I knew would be forever imprinted into my memories. "I'm so excited for tonight, Harry."

I smiled with the volume of her voice, whispering as if she spoke any louder everything would vanish. "I'm so proud of you, baby. So proud."

And as we made our way to the party, I decided the rest of the world was proud of her as well.

The venue was packed, nearly every piece of the floor and every set of tables and chairs were covered with people. My hand was gripping onto Ebony's as I looked over to see a smile building on her face with the sight of all the people. My ears perked at the soft music sounding through the atmosphere. In various places of the room were blown up pictures of the newly published issue of Ebony & Ivory, the first publishing. The pictures were of models in different aspects of black and white fashions, resting on black easels. The theme of the party was noticeably black and white as everyone dressed according the theme, and the decorations matched the theme as well.

Leaning over, I placed my lips on the shell of her ear. "Welcome to your publishing party, my love," I whispered, relishing in the way she shivered from my breath on her skin.

She looked over at me, tears in her eyes, and I knew the tears were a product of her happiness; they were a product of her success in her newly found career, her success in the fashion world.

"So proud," I whispered again before gently stroking the skin of her cheek with my thumb. Ebony's eyes closed at my touch, her lips curving up slightly. "So proud, baby. So proud."

I pulled back to take in the beauty that was my girlfriend, and she toothily grinned over at me. "I love you," she whispered, pressing her lips to mine briefly before we were interrupted by a rather loud shriek.

"Ebbie," Ava made her way over to us, smiling in greeting at me before moving to Ebony. "Can you believe this? This is for our magazine. This party was thrown in honor of our work."

Ebony giggled happily, and my head grew fuzzy with the sound. "We did it, Aves."

Ava shook her head, and I watched Ebony's eyebrows furrow. "No, Ebbie. You did it."

I wanted to live in that night forever for Ebony. I wanted to live in that night, so I could always see that breathtaking smile on Ebony's face whenever someone would compliment her work. I never wanted this night to end.

But no one ever really gets what they want.

I certainly didn't.

My eyes scanned the crowd of people as I sat at the table Ava had designated for Ebony and me. Once I didn't meet those daring brown eyes I was searching for, my eyebrows pulled together, setting a crease in the middle. Ebony had excused herself to the restroom nearly ten minutes ago, and a nervous feeling was beginning to rise within me at her lack of presence. I looked over at the empty chair that sat next to me before looking towards Ava.

"Hey," I spoke quietly, not wanting to interrupt the man speaking on the stage. "I'm going to find Eb since they're going to introduce you two soon."

Ava only nodded, uttering a quick "hurry" before I was out of my seat and headed toward the restrooms. I could hear the man's voice from stage become quieter and quieter with my distance, though by the sound of his words, I knew it was nearing the time when Eb and Ava had to make a quick speech.

My eyes scanned my surroundings as I walked towards the hallway that obtained the bathrooms, but two voices stopped me in my tracks.

"Ian," her voice rang through, and my ears immediately perked at the sweet sound of it. However, my heart dropped with the name it spoke. I pressed my back against the wall that separated me from them in order to make myself unseen. "I can't do this. You can't come to my publishing party spewing this bloody shit."

"So, you're just going to pick him over me, is that it?" My blood boiled with his words. "I could treat you so much better than that prick, Ebony."

I heard Ebony sigh heavily, and I could picture the way her eyes went wide as she rubbed the skin of her forehead with her distress, as she always did.

"Ian," she whispered his name, and I hated the way it sounded on her tongue. "I can't help how I feel about him."

"Yeah, well, I can't help how I feel about you."

My fists clenched at my side with that, anger rising in my veins. Before I could stop myself, I was pushing my body off the wall, storming into the hallway.

"What the fuck is this?" I growled, taking in their close proximity and Ebony's hands grasped in his. As soon as she saw me, however, they were ripped from his grip.

"Harry," she spoke in disbelief, eyes wide as she looked over at me. I averted my glare from her, settling on the man who had my blood boiling.

"Get the fuck away from my girlfriend you good for nothing prick," I hissed, taking a handful of his shirt in my fists before pushing him into the wall. Ian groaned at the rough contact. "You're lucky I don't beat the shit out of you."

"Harry, please," her touch was gentle on my back as she spoke my name, calming me down slightly. "Harry, it's you, please. You know that. It's always you."

With the sound of her words, Ian's face fell, eyes glistening with hurt. For a second, I nearly felt bad for him, a girl as amazing as Eb rejecting him like that. But the mere thought of him whispering how he felt for her had that sympathy wiped away.

"Come anywhere near her again, I'll beat the shit out of you." I pulled him from the wall, pushing him out of the hallway, never looking away until he had stumbled out of sight.

"Harry," Ebony's voice was soft, sweet as she spoke, but I shook my head - silencing her.

"Don't," my back was facing her as I spoke harshly. "I'm leaving."

"No," I heard her whisper, though it was too late because I was walking away from her.

With each of my footsteps, I heard the click of her heels behind me. I could also hear talking on the stage as I stormed towards the exit.

"Harry, wait."

I kept walking.

"Please," she sounded on the verge of tears. Though, I continued on as my palms pressed against the doors, pushing them open and storming through them.

There was a light breeze that flew through the nighttime air once I made it outside, the sidewalks damp with the light rain.

"Harry!" Ebony yelled, causing me to stop with the volume of her voice.

Taking a deep breath, I whirled around to face her. "What? What could you possibly want?"

She looked hurt, so hurt that my resolve almost came crumbling down. Almost.

"I didn't do anything wrong," she whispered, eyes faltering as they looked down to her feet. "Why did you storm out like that?"

I scoffed, shaking my head. "Oh, I don't know. Maybe, because I found my girlfriend nearly kissing some arsehole."

"I didn't kiss him, Harry," her voice was rising in volume. "I wouldn't do that to you."

"Just get away from me, Ebony," I hissed. "I don't want anything to do with you. Leave me alone."

Ebony gasped as I spoke those words while looking her right in the eyes. I watched as tears filled to the brim of that daring brown before spilling over the edge, falling down her cheeks. I watched as she took one last look at me before walking away from me, hailing a cabbie. I watched as she got into the car as her chest heaved with sobs. I watched the cab drove away. I simply stood there and watched.

There was a burning in my eyes, a threat of tears building. My hand ran through my hair, pulling harshly on the ends. Raindrops softly fell from the sky, and I only just noticed the feel of them hitting me. With a sigh, I walked slowly back into the venue.

Once I made it through the entrance, I could hear clapping, the noise light with my distance. I kept walking until the sound was louder, and I had a view of the stage and audience. Ava stood on stage, a slight panicked look on her face.

"I- um, I'm actually not quite sure where Ebony went, so I suppose I'll be speaking for the both of us," her voice was slightly shaky with nerves. "I know this magazine means the world to Ebony. She is so proud of the outcome of this first issue, as am I. She was the one to orchestrate all of this, the name of the magazine, the black and white theme of it, all of it. It was her. This magazine is her baby, and she loves it with everything she is. She actually called it Ebony & Ivory because she is a brunette with the name Ebony, and I'm the blonde," Ava laughed at the memory, and I smiled sadly.

"She thought it was the best idea when she thought of it, and she was so excited I agreed right away. After the name was chosen, though, everything else fell into place. You see, Ebony Acker is a very talented woman, and though I wish she was here to hear me say this, but I am so proud to be her best friend and colleague," Ava nodded a 'thank you' as the clapping sounded before handing off the microphone and walking off stage.

As the music began to play once again, everyone beginning to chat amongst themselves, my phone vibrated inside the pocket of my dress pants. My heart pounded within the confines of my chest as I hoped for the message to display Ebony's name, divulging in how much she needed me and how sorry she was.

But it wasn't Ebony.

Instead, the name on the text message read Paige, someone I haven't talked to in months and months. I sighed as I read the contents of it.

'Hey, stranger. Miss you. Give me a call sometime. Feeling a bit lonely. Look forward to hearing from you soon. xo'

-

'Ebony Acker: Taking The Fashion World By Storm

Ebony Acker, editor and chief of fashion magazine Ebony & Ivory as well as ex girlfriend of Harry Styles, has been chosen as one of Barbara Walters' 10 Most Fascinating People of 2014. Her unique style portraying works of fashion has begun changing the fashion world as we know it. The monochrome theme with pops of colour has inspired designers around the world.

Designer, Michael Kors, had this to say about young Acker, "She's inventive, something the fashion world values in many ways. I find myself thinking of ways to incorporate the styles she portrays in her magazine because of the shear genius behind it."

The magazine's first issue was published in March of this year, and already, it has influenced many around the world. Clearly, this young woman is the future of the fashion world.'

I've never felt such an unexplainable combination of utter pride and paralyzing sorrow. She was making something of herself. She was successful in doing something she loved, and I was so proud of her. But I couldn't shake the feeling of need to be by her side as she lived out her dream. I wanted to be the one by her side, always.

"Harry."

My eyes were averted from my phone as I looked up to see Niall and the rest of the lads staring at me curiously.

"Uh- sorry?" I questioned, squinting my eyes slightly.

"Mate, we've been calling your name for the past five minutes," Louis stated. "What's got you so wrapped up in the phone? Sexting Paige?"

I cringed with his words. "I don't want to talk about her," I snapped causing Louis' eyes to widen with my abruptness. I quickly backtracked, "Sorry, mate. I didn't mean to be so harsh like that. Just not in the mood to talk about Paige."

"No worries, mate," Louis shook his head. "I understand."

There was silence as the rest of the boys took a seat beside me on the dressing room's couch. I looked down at my phone once again, a picture of Ebony present on the top of the article. My heart ached as I realized this was the closest I've been to her in a month.

"Ebony, huh?" I looked over to see Zayn eyeing my phone, and I quickly locked my phone, darkening the screen. "Missin' her?"

I sighed, shaking my head. "Don't wanna talk about it, Zayn. Not here."

Zayn was about to speak, however Liam's voice cut him off.

"Can you believe we're about to be on the Graham Norton Show, lads?" His voice was the essence of excited.

The boys all began to nod in agreement, vocalizing their excitement at the same time.

"How 'bout you, Harold?" Louis looked over at me. "Excited?"

"Shakin' in me boots with excitement," I smiled, and the boys laughed, shaking their heads.

"Lads," the door opened causing all of as to turn our heads with the voice. "It's showtime."

-

Ebony

♡

Sunlight streamed through my windows, setting a muted glow amongst the room. My eyes fluttered open from their dreamless sleep as I looked over to see Ian's body occupying the other side of the bed. Events of last night flooded through my head as did a menacing pounding.

I gripped the covers in my hand before pulling them from my body. My feet sunk into the plushness of the carpet as I stood from the body, stretching my arms above my head. Ian was sound asleep when I began venturing from the bedroom in search of some aspirin.

As promised from Ian, there on the kitchen counter sat a glass of water and two aspirins. A small smile curved my lips as I picked up the medicine and water, popping the pills in my mouth before swallowing them down with the help of water.

Leaning against the counter, I pulled out my phone to busy myself until the medicine actually kicked in. Though, I quickly regretted it as I took in the mere amount of tweets about none other than Harry Styles.

'@hse1994: can we please never forget the moment of Harry & Sir Ian on the Graham Norton show last night??'

'@styles_who__: Will forever love the fact Harry is a Lord of the Rings fan.

'@stylesforever: the entire fandom would kill to be in sir ian's shoes'

'@1dinfection: Everyone needs to watch this: youtube.com/Zyuh

I clicked the link, instantly regretting it as I watched a heartbreakingly adorable scene of Harry and Ian McKellen unfold.

-

"Harry, no," I whined, pulling my face into a pillow as I let out a small groan. "We are not watching Lord of the Rings again. I refuse."

I could feel him beginning to snuggle into my side, nuzzling his nose into my neck before he began peppering that skin with kisses. "Please, baby. Pretty please."

He began kissing his way up my neck until he found my lips, pressing his passionately there to melt away my resolve. My fingers latched onto the curls on the back on his neck, curling into the hair. I could feel Harry smile into my lips once he knew I was done for.

Pulling away, I squinted my eyes over at him in annoyance. "You suck," I frowned, and he smiled in victory, running towards the television to put in the Lord of the Rings.

-

I was brought back to reality as the video ended, and I was surprised to feel a rather numb feeling in the pit of stomach, differing from the esteemed hurt I've been feeling over the course of this month. And before I knew what I was doing, my phone was in my hand, a new message pulled up ready to be typed out.

'Don't know where you are at this point or who you're with, but I just want you to know that you hurt me, Harry. You really hurt me, and I don't want to hurt anymore. So, I'm letting you go. I don't want to have any contact with you anymore, and I honestly don't want to see you again. I'm letting you and what we had go. Goodbye, Harry.'

The moment I pressed 'send' footsteps padded against the floor as Ian made his way into the kitchen, smiling over at me groggily.

"Hey," he spoke, voice deep with recent awakening. "Who're you texting?"

Sighing, I looked down at the sent message before locking my phone and placing it on the counter. "Just an old friend."

Ian only nodded, moving further into the kitchen as a subtle silence fell on us. Once he stood directly in front of me, leaning against the counter opposite from me, did he choose to speak.

"You okay?" He asked, eyes soft with the question.

"I will be."

Ian nodded. "Fair enough."

"You want to stay for breakfast?" I asked, smiling softly.

"I think I'm actually going to head out since I've got work soon," he politely declined before moving forward to place a kiss on my cheek. "Thanks for asking me to be your date last night. I had fun saving the night."

"You did nothing of the sorts," I scoffed.

"I beg to differ, Acker," he winked, walking backwards towards the door. "You should probably buy me dinner to make up for my heroic efforts."

"'Bye, Ian!" I called, ignoring his comment as I heard the door open. The last thing I heard before the door closed was Ian's booming laughter.

I smiled softly, though the vibration of my phone allowed the smile to slowly fade. There was a single message waiting for me, and I didn't need to look to know it was from it Harry.

'Goodbye, Eb.'

-

Taking a deep breath, my knuckles came up to make contact with the wood of the door, sending an echoing knocking sound. My heart quickened its pace beneath my chest as I waited anxiously. After what felt like a year, the door opened, Vic being revealed.

Once he took in the sight of me, his greeting smile fell, a look of sorrow crossing his features. I sighed, immediately hating myself with the look on his face, the look I caused.

"Vic," I started, but I was immediately cut off.

"What are you doing here, Ebony?" He questioned, eyebrows furrowing.

"I wanted to apologize, Vic. I'm so sorry for what happened," I pleaded for forgiveness. "I didn't have the right to ruin your engagement party like that."

Vic shook his head, smiling sadly. "Don't apologize to me, Ebony. Apologize to your sister. She's the one who is really hurt by what happened last night."

"I know," I nodded, eyes stinging with tears. "Is she here?"

"No," Vic shook her head. "She went out for a few drinks with some friends. I can tell her you stopped by, though."

I only nodded, a single tear slipping down my cheek.

"I really am sorry, Vic."

"I know," he nodded, and so did I.

"Tell Bev I stopped by, please," I begged. He nodded.

I stood there for brief moments in time before nodding my head.I began walking away, shuffling my feet as I go. My eyes watched the movement of my feet with each step, though I stopped once I heard the sound of Vic's voice.

"Oh, and Ebony, congrats on the Barbara Walters thing. You're one of the ten, yeah?"

I nodded.

"Congratulations, Ebony."

Ebony

♡

"Do you like this dress? Or should I change?" I could feel Beverly's eyes on my back as mine stayed trained on my dress-clad figure in the mirror. My hands smoothed over the curves that were accentuated from the fabric clinging to my body. My hair cascaded down my shoulders in straight strands, halfway pulled up in a volumized bump.

Bev sat on the edge of the bathtub as I waited for her response. She merely smiled over at me, nodding her head. "You look beautiful, just as you have with all the other dresses."

My eyes briefly looked over at her before finding my reflection once again. "You sure? He won't tell me where we're going, so I don't know what to wear."

"I think you look amazing, Ebbie," Beverly smiled softly. "He'll think so, too."

I only nodded, looking at my reflection once more before I turned around in order to grip my heels for the night as well as my black clutch. Walking out of the bathroom, Bev followed close behind me as I placed all the necessities I needed for the evening inside the clutch.

"You going out with Ian tonight?" I tilted my head back only a bit in order to catch a glimpse of her. She shrugged her shoulders with my question.

"Dunno," she replied, watching as I turned around fully - shoes strapped to my feet and all. "I'm just going to go home and see what he's up to."

I nodded, though before I had time to respond, a knock on the door broke through the atmosphere of the flat, sending my heart into a whirlwind of pounding. Offering Beverly an apologetic smile, I turned to answer the door. Like always, he was flawless. He made the simplest outfits remarkable, a simple button up and skinny jeans adorning his body. The usual white converse were on his feet.*** He was beautiful, as always.

"Hey, baby," his voice was raspy, pronouncing the term of endearment 'beh-bee.'

I smiled softly, heart hammering against my chest. "Hi, Harry."

And with a simple goodbye sent my sister's way, I was off with my boyfriend of eight months. And just like always, each minute spent with him was better than the last. He made laugh; he made me smile. He simply made me happy by standing next to me, and that was all I ever needed - someone to make me happy. By the end of the night, as we walked to my flat's door hand-in-hand, giddiness was set into every fiber of me.

As we made to my door, Harry turned to me, eyes sparkling as he looked over at me as if I was the only girl he could possibly see. He walked forward until my back was pressed against the door, his arms trapping me as each of his hands were placed on the wall near my head.

His lips pecked mine briefly, leaving behind a dizzying feeling as he pulled away. "Can I tell you something?" His voice was hushed, the raspiness somehow more prominent in the whisper tone.

"Anything," my eyes fluttered open to look up at him. The green of his eyes were bright, passion hiding in the depths of them. I got lost in them with a single glance.

His eyes never looked away from my own, lips curving up slightly. "I love you, Eb. I'm in love with you."

My breath caught in my throat with that, those words sounding foreign on his tongue as he spoke them for the first time. And for the first time over the course of the night, Harry's eyes looked nervous. The smile fell from his lip as he scanned my face. With my lack of response, he opened his mouth as if to save himself, but I beat him to it.

"I love you, too," I spoke quickly, watching his eyes grow wide before a smile broke out on his face. Relief coursed through his features.

"Yeah?" The smile accentuated his words

I nodded, "Yeah."

That night, I walked into my flat with the biggest smile on my face, though it slowly faded once I took in the state of my older sister sitting on my couch.

"Bev," I spoke slowly, voice trailing off as I took in her tears stained cheek, red rimmed eyes, and hunched figure. Dropping my clutch to the floor, I made my way towards her, footsteps slow until I stood in front of her. "What's going on? Why aren't you home with Ian?"

She looked up at me, lip quivering as she did so. "I went home to go see what he wanted to do tonight, but he was pretty preoccupied."

My heart sunk for her. "Oh my God, Bev. Tell me he didn't."

"She was pretty," Beverly ignored my words. "She was really pretty, so I'm sure it was worth it."

I sat next to her, silently watching as she closed her eyes allowing a few tears to make their steady course down her cheeks. My heart broke then and there for my sister as I watched her break.

"Bev," my voice was gentle, hand moving to gently stroke her hunched-over upper back. Her head was cradled in the palms of her cupped hands. "I'm so sorry he did this to you."

But she didn't respond. She merely cried into her hands as I sat there in my best attempt to fix her. Who knew that I'd end up being the one that needed fixing.

-

"Ebony!"

My eyes snapped over to Ava as my name sounded loudly through the living room, nearly echoing off the walls. She held the customized banner in her hand, looking over at me expectantly. I shook my head in an attempt to clear it.

"Sorry," I apologized, looking down to see the framed picture of Beverly and me in my hand. Her arm was wrapped around my shoulder, her body leaning into mine as I took notice in Ian's figure photo-bombing in the background. His tongue hung from his mouth as his eyes set in a rather drunken glaze. From the looks of it, the setting was a dim bar. The sound of Ava's throat clearing caught my attention, pulling me from the picture. "Sorry," I apologized again. "What'd you say?"

Ava's eyes furrowed in annoyance as she looked over at me. "I've called your name about fifty times, Ebbie," she grumbled. "I need your help with banner," she held up the customized one.***

"Right," I nodded, taking one last look at the framed picture.

Why did she save it all this time?

Shaking my head, I placed the picture back where I found it - hidden in the junk drawer of the kitchen. I took one final scan of the kitchen, making sure everything was in place. Balloons and paper chandeliers hung from the ceiling. Champagne glasses were placed on the counter in a pleasant formation, a small patch of chalkboard material was placed on the glasses in order for the guests to write their names on their glass in chalk. Different champagne bottles were scattered amongst another counter, mimicking a champagne bar.

Walking out of the kitchen, my eyes scanned over the food bar, making sure everything was in a place. A chalkboard sat on the extended table that was placed against the wall that separated the kitchen from living room. On the chalkboard, the words written were, "Eat, Drink, and Be Married." Paper chandeliers - that matched the kitchen's - hung from the opening the island provided. A wooden arch was placed off to the corner, various pictures of Beverly and Vic hanging from it. A large, yellow paper chandelier - that matched the same ones scattered about the flat - was hung from the middle of the living room ceiling, several smaller white ones surrounding it in order to mimic a center piece. I nodded my head, accepting the placement and look of the decorations.

"Okay," I made my way to Ava as she stood in the middle of the living next to the furniture. "Where should we put the banner?"

"I was thinking of putting it above the blown up picture of Bev and Vic, yeah?" She pointed off to the side where a giant picture rested on a wooden easel that match the wood of the arch by the food bar.*** The picture was placed against the wall opposite of all the furniture.

I nodded, moving the coffee table in order to use that as leverage to reach the upper wall. "Here, stand on this, and I'll tell you if it's straight or not."

Ava simply moved to stand atop of the coffee table. I stood watch, directing her movements until the banner was placed in the exact spot it needed to be.

"All right, that's-"

"Oh, wow," a voice cut me off, and I looked over to see a fully dressed and ready Bev. Our eyes met, and immediately, I looked away - her vicious words echoed through my head.

"It's not my fault you're not over some bloke who cheated on you."

"You like, Bev?" Ava spoke, and I looked up at her, offering my hand to help her hop off from the coffee table. Once she was done, I began scooting the table back to its original place.

"I love!" Bev declared, eyes sweeping across every aspect of the flat. She looked over at Ava and me, and for the second time, our eyes met. I looked away. "Thank you, loves."

"You're very welcome, Soon-To-Be Mrs. Sinclair," Ava winked.

"I think I'm going to get dressed before the guests come." I didn't offer them a chance to respond before I grabbed my bag and started walking off to the flat's guest bedroom.

"Ebony," a voice called causing me to stop as I rounded the door to the bedroom. Turning around, I took in Beverly's pleading expression. "You can't be mad at me all night," was all she said.

My face dropped, any hope draining from me. "Seriously? Not even an apology."

"I didn't mean to upset you, Ebbie. I'm sorry if I did."

"That's not the kind of apology I was looking for, Bev," I shook my head.

Her mouth opened to respond, but I shook my head, cutting her off.

"You know what, Beverly, just leave me alone, please. I'm to fulfill a promise I made, and then I'm gone, yeah?" I turned around, placing my hand on the doorknob.

"So, that's it?" Her voice caused any further actions to halt, my back still facing her. "I say one stupid thing, and you drop me. Just like that, sisters or not."

I didn't answer her. I simply opened the bedroom door, slipping through it and closing it. Leaning against the door, I took steadying breaths before sifting through the clothes in my bag to grab my phone. Unlocking it, I flicked through my contacts until I saw the name I was looking for. I clicked call.

"Hey, it's me," I spoke once the person on the other line answered. "Yeah, I'm fine. Listen, can you do me a favor? Can you come to my sister's flat and be my date for her engagement party?"

-

There were people everywhere. Laughter filled every corner of the flat as each person gripped their champagne glasses in their hands.

"Ebony, dear," with the voice, a whiff of intense-smelling perfume hit my nose, and I looked over to see Beverly and my Great Aunt Suki. The closer she got, the more overwhelming the scent of perfume became. "This party is a smash," she leaned in, kissing me on both cheeks. "You have outdone yourself, my love. Truly. It's a shame your parents couldn't make it."

I smiled politely, nodding my head. "Thank you, Auntie Suki. People do seem to be enjoying themselves."

"Oh, they are, my dear," she nodded, gripping both of my hands in hers. "Now, tell me. How are you and your boyfriend, still going strong?"

I could feel my face drop, though I tried to recover it as best I could before she could notice. "Actually, we're no longer together, Auntie. Things just didn't work out."

Realization drew across her face. "I'm very sorry, dear. But you're young, you have plenty of time to find the right fella. Now, you should be focusing on that magazine you're the editor of. Very impressive."

I nodded, lips curving up in a smile at the mention of Ebony & Ivory. "Thank you, thank you. I love it a lot, I really do."

"It's a fashion magazine?"

"It is," I nodded again. "It showcases fashions of black and white color scheme - hence the name - with pops of colors here and there."

"That sounds lovely, my dear. I'm glad you've become so successful." Her smile was genuine, and for a brief moment, I was reminded of Harry's mother - Anne. She was always so genuine, always smiling and making me feel apart of the family. My heart began to ache briefly.

"That's very sweet of you to say, Auntie Sukie," I smiled lightly. "Really, I was just lucky to be offered the position."

"Oh, luck has nothing to do with it, silly. You're too talented. It was only an amount of time before someone scooped you up."

Before I had the chance to express another bout of gratitude, a tap on my shoulder stole my attention. I turned around to see Ava looking over at me.

"Excuse me, but can I steal Ebony for a brief moment?" She spoke towards my Auntie. Auntie Sukie simply nodded, saying something along the lines of, 'of course, my dear.'

I smiled over at Auntie Sukie before following Ava to a more secluded area near the blown up picture of the happy couple.

"What d'you need?" I asked once she turned to face me.

"Did you invite him?"

Her tone was abrupt, and it caught me off guard as she looked over at me. My eyebrows furrowed a bit. "Did I invite who?"

"You should probably go look to see who's at the door." Was all she said before walking away, leaving me alone next to my sister's giant face. I sighed, looking over a the picture before I walked off to the front door just as Ava told me to do.

"Finally," with the sound of his voice, I was met by a pair of green eyes - beautiful green eyes but not the green eyes I craved to see. "Been standing for years. 'Bout time someone comes to greet me."

I smiled as Ian opened his arms, and I fell into them instantly. "Thank you for coming," I whispered into his clothed chest. A simple white tee shirt and black blazer consumed his upper half, dark wash skinnies and black ankle boots pulling the outfit together.

"Well, when Ebony Acker asks you to be her date, you follow through," he smirked, pulling away from the hug to look at me.

"I like your logic, Holland."

"Glad to hear it, Acker."

-

The champagne was delicious. So delicious, in fact, that I found myself indulging in glass after glass. Ian encouraged me to slow down by my seventh glass, but I simply laughed him off, leaning into his side for some support.

"You're so funny, Ian," I giggled, nuzzling into his neck. His arm moved to wrap around my waist in order to pull me closer.

A chuckle vibrated through his body, shaking me slightly. "I think your sudden interest in my sense of humor has more to do with those nearly eight glasses of champagne you've had rather than my actual sense of humor."

"No," I shook my head, giggling again. "I just think you're so funny."

"Doubt that, Ebony, but thanks."

He began leading us away from the champagne bar and into the living room. As we made our way, a felt a slight sticky liquid hit my side, and I looked over to see a disheveled Beverly making her way into the kitchen. Her eyes were glued onto the spot where her champagne had spilled when she bumped into me.

"Oh, shit. I'm so-" she looked up to see it was me, eyes flickering over to the man whose arms was draped around me. "What the hell is he doing here, Ebony?"

"He's my date, silly," I slurred, my arm flinging itself around Ian's neck.

Bev's eyes contorted into a hurt expression, though I was too drunk to fully register the emotion. "You brought him to my engagement party?"

I could feel Ian's grip on me become tense.

"Look, if it's a problem, I can always leave," Ian quickly spoke up. "I didn't think this would cause any trouble, Beverly."

"No!" I whined, tightening my grip on Ian's neck.

"Can I have everyone's attention?" A voice echoed through the flat following a clinking of silverware against a champagne glass. Making our way to the living room, we saw Ava standing next to the picture and banner in front of the crowd of guests. "I'd just like to thank you for coming to my dear friends' engagement party."

Everyone clapped and cheered lightly.

Vic moved over to take Bev in his arms, kissing her on her temple. He took no notice in Ian and me.

"Now, it's time for our bride-to-be's sister to make a toast to the lovely couple," Ava's hand outstretched to point to me. Her expression faltered for a moment once she took in my drunken appearance, though she quickly recovered. "Come on up here, Ebony."

"You up for this?" Ian whispered into my ear as an applause sounded. He was hesitant once his grip on me lightened.

"As I'll ever be."

Ian let go of me, allowing me to stumble up to the front of the room. Ava watched me warily, the applause dying down with each of my steps. Once I finally made it, Ava's hands moved out as if she had to catch me. I merely shrugged her off.

"Ebony," she whispered to me cautiously.

"Hello, everyone," I shrugged her off once again. "My name is Ebony Acker, and I'm Beverly's younger sister. I also threw this party."

The crowd clapped briefly.

"I just have a few words to say about marriage and love," I slurred. "You see, Bev and Vic over there have got it easy. Love isn't that easy, no. Love tears you apart, lemme tell you," I waved my hand around absentmindedly. "Love leaves you feeling like a mere measling of yourself. Really, love never works out in the end."

The room was silent. A few gasps sounded here and there.

"Which means marriage doesn't work out. It all ends in divorce, leaving you broken and sad. So, what's the point? You know? There's no point in love, no point at all. The one you love will always break you in the end. You'll end up being-"

"Hey," a gentle voice sounded, a single arm wrapping itself around my waist. Ian's eyes looked over at me, a gentle expression in the depths of them. "Come on, let's get you home."

"But I was making a toast," I whined, but he didn't to me, merely dragging me from the front of the room. "To the bride and groom!" I hollered.

No one responded.

The last thing I saw before being dragged out the front door was Beverly's tear-stained face and quivering lip.

-

I felt a soft blanket being gently placed on top of my body, a soft mattress cushioning me. There was a pounding in my head as my eyes fluttered open, Ian's green one staring softly over me.

"Hey there, drunkie," he whispered, and I was thankful for the volume of his voice. "You were out like a light in the cab drive here, so I figured I'd just bring her up to your flat."

I nodded.

"All right," he continued to speak softly. "I'm going to be let you get some rest and head out. I put out some water and aspirin for you. Make sure to take them in the morning, you'll need them."

He began standing to his full height as I stayed laying in my bed. As he turned around to leave, I began to panic.

"Wait, Ian," my voice was croaky, cracking in abnormal areas, sounding unlike me. He turned around, eyebrows raising on his forehead. "Everyone leaves me."

His facial expression dropped, a frown gracing his features. "Ebbie," he whispered.

"Please," my voice cracked. "Stay, Ian."

"I don't know if-"

"Everyone leaves me. Please, don't leave me," I whimpered. "Stay."

He didn't say anything. He simply nodded, walking over to the other side of the bed before slipping beneath the covers. His arms moved to wrap themselves around my body, pulling me flush against him. I clung to him.

"Don't leave," I pleaded again. "Please."

-One Month Later-

Harry

♡

My hair was matted with raindrops, sticking to the skin of my cheeks. My simple white tee shirt stuck to my front, becoming see through with the sopping moisture. The sky never stopped its harsh action as she opened the door, eyes wide with the sight of me and my appearance. There was a moment of silence as she simply looked over me, and I, her.

The rain continued to fall.

"Are you insane?" She finally spoke with her eyebrows lowly furrowed over her eyes. My mouth opened to speak before I shook my head, lunging forward to capture her lips in mine. I tugged my arms around her waist, pulling her flush against me, dampening her clothes in the process. My feet took several steps forward into the house, slamming the door behind us with my boot-clad foot. Her lips were like heaven on mine, my mind going dizzy with the pressure.

"Harry," she whispered against my mouth, and I pulled her closer with the sound. "No," she pulled away. I watched her chest heave up and down. "Stop. We can't do this."

I sighed, my forehead falling onto hers as my eyes closed. "I-"

"You have a girlfriend," she interrupted me, pulling away to look into my eyes. "She doesn't deserve this, Harry. No girl does."

"I don't know how to be with her anymore, Paige," I huffed out. "I don't think I can be what she wants me to be."

I felt her slip from my grip slowly, and I panicked as she looked over at me sadly. "So, you're using me then?"

"No, of course no-"

"Tell me you don't love her. Tell me, and I'm yours."

My face fell. "Paige," I trailed off slightly.

Her lips quiver, eyes looking off to the side. "I knew it, I did. I was just hoping that it wasn't true, you know? Like I was your first choice."

My feet carried me forward, placing myself directly in front of Paige. Her head was now tilted to the floor in an effort to keep her gaze away from mine. My pointer finger gently set itself on the soft skin of her chin, tilting it for her eyes to meet mine. Tears were present.

"Paige," I whispered softly.

"Do you remember the look on her face when she caught us together in your room?" Her voice was hushed, and I remembered that night so clearly. "She looked as if her whole world had fallen apart right in front of her. She looked broken-"

"I don't-"

"-and I don't want to be the one to cause that again, Harry. I can't be," she whispered softly, hand coming up to stroke the skin of my cheek in order to feel the prickly stubble there.

I was silent.

"That night, what did you say to her once you sent me away?" Her eyes bored into mine, almost pleading.

"Paige-"

"Please," she begged. "Please, tell me."

I sighed as my eyes scanned over her face. "I promised her it'd never happen again. I promise I'd be faithful."

She smiled sadly over at me. "Then why are you here?"

"I don't know how to love her anymore, Paige. I don't know how."

"But you still love her." It wasn't a question. She spoke it as a statement.

I was silent.

"Yeah," Paige nodded her head, eyes falling to the floor. My touch on her chin fell with her movements. "Thought so."

I watched in that moment as Paige began walking away from me, tears staining the skin of her cheeks. I desperately wanted to go after her. I wanted to plead a case to her, a case for us. There was no case to plead, though, and as I watched her disappear up the stairs, I realized just that.

"Harry," a different voice spoke from a behind me. A different voice, but a voice that was all too familiar. Turning around, I was met with the same daring brown eyes I fell in love with so long ago.

My voice was breathy as I spoke her name, "Ebony."

Her eyes were saddened, so saddened. And it was a sight I was all too familiar with as a red color rimmed them. Her bottom lip jutted out, quivering slightly. "You promised me," her voice broke.

"What are you doing here?" I ignored her statement.

"You promised me, Harry. You promised." A single tear fell down the contour of her cheek. My heart felt pained with the sight.

"Ebony, I'm sorry," were the only words I thought to say. But it was too late, she was gone. My eyes frantically searched the confines of the home in hopes of seeing those brown eyes again. "Ebony," I called out, but there was no answer. I was alone.

She was gone.

-

The dead of night was completely silent as my eyes snapped open, a gasp sounding from my lips with my awakening. My chest moved rapidly up and down as my body racked with heaving breaths. The skin of my forehead was slightly clammy, and my hands shook as I placed them there to remove a bit of the moisture. The sound of rain pattered against the glass of my window bringing me back to the events of my dream. I closed my eyes momentarily as I sat up, my hair falling forward once I bowed my head. The side of the bed next to me was cold and empty, but I tried not to dwell on that fact as I took a few steadying breaths. In my state, I nearly missed the vibrating of my phone, a new message alert displaying on the screen.

My heart hammered with the prospect of who sent the message, but I knew the person I did want the message to be from was not the person who sent it. It has been like this for a month. I get a phone call or text, and my mind would mock me on the possibilities of the sender and content. But it never ended up how I would want, never.

And as I opened my phone, it became just like one of those moments.

Paige: 'Can't sleep. Come over?'

Sighing, I didn't bother to reply. I simply left my messages, moving to my list of contacts, and searching for the one name I wanted to see on my screen for the past month. My thumb hovered over her name, the dim light from the phone illuminating a portion of my room. There was a small emotion heart at the end of her name that had been there since the moment she put her number into my phone. Ironically, I never had the heart to remove it.

I needed to hear her voice.

My thumb pressed the call button, and before I could possibly chicken out, I pressed the phone to my ear.

It rang once. Twice. It rang three times before a voice answered, but it wasn't the voice I craved to hear.

"Ebony Acker's phone, how may I assist you?" The voice was deep, groggy sounding as he had just woken up. My breath caught in my throat with the sound of his voice. "Anyone there? Hello?"

I hung the phone.

I opened Paige's text message, replying.

'Be there soon .x'

-

Ebony

♡

'Harry Styles Seen Out and About with Paige Reifler'

'Harry Styles and Paige Reifler Out to Dinner Together'

'Harry Styles Caught Leaving Paige Reifler's House at 2AM'

"You're only torturing yourself by looking at that," my head turned around at the sound of his voice, green eyes looking over at me - though, not quite the green eyes I dream of. I looked down at the magazine stand, smiling sadly, before turning around to fully face Ian.

"Following me now, huh?" I joked, but there was a saddened tone to my voice. By the look on Ian's face, he noticed it.

He shook his head, falling into walk with me through the grocery store. "Just a happy coincidence, love. In need of some milk." He held up the carton in his hands.

I smiled softly, pulling my basket of items farther up my arm. "Right, of course."

We simply walked side-by-side for a bit, his arm brushing against mine ever-so-often. It was silent as we rounded the checkout lanes, standing in line as we waited for our turns.

"Oh," Ian spoke up, looking over at me a he dug through his back pocket. "You forgot your phone at my place last night when we watched that movie. I was going to bring it by your flat on the way here, but you weren't home, obviously," he gestured to my presence at the store as my body physically relaxed at the sight of my cell phone.

"Thank you, Ian," I smiled lightly, gripping the phone in my hands. "I've been going crazy looking for this thing."

He simply shrugged as if to say it was no big deal. "It rang last night, but there was no name on the contact - just a number."

My eyebrows furrowed. "Hmm, weird. Did you answer?"

"Yeah," he nodded. "They only hung up."

"Weird," I repeated.

-

"Bev!" My voice traveled through her flat as I struggled to keep the door open, my arms full of grocery bags. My hair was slightly damp from the rain falling onto the familiar London streets. "Bev, help, please!"

"Ebony, hey," a deep voice sounded, and I looked up to see Beverly's fiancé, Vic, smiling over at me. "Need help?" He smiled.

"Yes, please," I reciprocated the smiled as he walked over to me, taking half the bags from my arms in order for me to fully walk through the door. "Is Bev not home?"

"She's in the shower," he informed as we walked into the kitchen, placing the bags on the counter. I nodded as I began to sift through the contents of the bags, streamers, banners, et cetera.

"I've got a few specially-made things from that one party store near my flat. But I also got some generic decorations to place about," I told Vic, looking over to see him looking through a few bags. "And Ava is coming over to help decorate in a few. She's bringing the drinks, her specialty."

Vic nodded, smiling. "Sounds good. Your sister really appreciates this, so do I. Taking time to throw us an engagement party is really thoughtful."

I shrugged. "She's my only sister," I placed a case of champagne into the refrigerator before turning back to Vic, leaning my back against the counter behind me. "Besides, keeps me busy."

With my words, Vic's eyes softened slightly as he nodded. "I'm sure. How are you holding up?"

I didn't need any further information to know he was talking about Harry and all the baggage that came with that name. It's been a month since I last saw him - one entire month. Not only had he packed most of his things and walked out of the flat, he also walked out of my life, and I haven't heard a word from him since.

"'M all right," I looked down at my shuffling heel-clad feet. "Taking it one day a time, you know?"

"Good for you," I looked up, and he was smiling. He was always smiling. "It's his loss, I think. You're one hell of a bird."

My lips curved into a soft smile, but before I could respond at all, Bev came waltzing in with a bathrobe around her body and her hair wrapped in a towel. She smiled once she saw me.

"You're here!" She embraced me, kissing me on the cheek briefly.

"That I am, and I've come baring gifts," I pointed off to the numerous bags of decorations shrewn about the counters. Beverly looked over at them, and her eyes widened with the sight of all the bags.

"Not quite sure my flat is big enough for all those decorations, love," she shook her head.

"I got it, sis. No need to worry your pretty engaged head."

Vic laughed with that, moving over to place a kiss onto Bev's cheek. "I'm going to head out so you ladies can decorate, and I'll be back before party-time."

"Of course. Leave when all the work's got to be done," Beverly teased, leaning up to place a kiss on his lips. I averted my eyes, beginning to sift through the bags again.

"Please," he whispered, and I could picture him looking lovingly at her. Like how Harry used to look lovingly at me as if his world couldn't turn without me. "You wouldn't let me help even if I wanted to."

"You wouldn't do it right," her tone was light as she spoke

Another kiss sounded. "I love you."

My heart ached.

"And I love you."

Then I heard footsteps and the front door opening and closing. Bev was suddenly at my side, a ridiculous smile on her face. I tried to reciprocate it, but she saw right through it, her smile soon fading with the furrowing of her eyebrows.

"What's wrong?" She sighed as she took in my expression, but I merely brushed her off.

"Nothing," I shook my head. "Let's get decorating."

I began to move, but my arm was caught in her hand, effectively stopping me. "Ebony, what's wrong?"

"Just tired," I lied. "Ian and I were up late last night watching a movie, and-"

"Ian?"

Shit.

I nodded, speaking slowly as I responded. "Yeah, Ian."

Her eyebrows were set low on her forehead. "As in Ian Holland?"

I only nodded.

"Are you two together now?"

I was silent.

"Ebony," her voice was suddenly sharp, drawing my attention further. "Are you with him?"

"No, we're not together. He's been helping me with the whole break up with Harry, and there was one night that didn't mean anything," I confessed, sighing.

Beverly looked taken aback, breathily speaking her next response. "You had sex?" I nodded. "Why didn't you tell me, Ebbie? Why didn't you tell me you slept with my ex?"

My eyes found the floor, avoiding Bev's hard glare. "It wasn't my proudest of moments, Bev. It was the night Harry and I broke it off, and Ian was there for me before. I was vulnerable, so I went to him and drank a little then I woke up naked in his bed. We both agreed it was a drunken mistake, so I just left it alone," I shrugged, looking up at her. "Didn't really feel like talking about it."

"Let me get this clear," her hands were on her hips as she spoke. "So, you slept with my ex boyfriend because you broke up with yours. Nice class you've got yourself, Ebony."

"Don't do that, Beverly," I frowned. "I was in a bad place, and I needed something to distract me. People deserve brief moments of weakness, I'm sorry I had mine."

"Was," she laughed humorlessly. "Right."

My eyebrows furrowed immediately with her words. "What the hell does that mean?"

"Oh, maybe that it's not so past tensed, Ebony," she rolled her eyes with my confused expression. "You've been in a funk since you and Harry broke up. So, it's not 'was'. You still are. In a bad place, that is."

"I was in love with him, Beverly," my tone was harsh. "It's a bit tough to get over that."

"Again, was?" She crossed her arms over her chest in a challenging way.

I shook your head before gripping a bag in my hand, beginning to walk away. "I don't have time for this. I have your engagement party to throw."

"It's not my fault you're not over some bloke who cheated on you," she hissed, and my face fell as soon as the words began to linger in the air. Beverly's eyes immediately softened once she took in my reaction. "Ebony. I'm-"

I shook my head, cutting her off effectively. "Leave me alone, Beverly."

With that, I walked away, her words echoing through my mind. And no matter how hard I tried to convince myself otherwise, she was right. I wasn't over him.