Being surrounded by revelers seem to test Harry's patience every time he's at one of Liam's parties.

Harry should be used to it by now, the illicit drugs consumed around him, the blaring music thumping throughout the house, alcohol absorbed like it was water, and people hooking up left and right. Harry should be used to it all, but he's not. He can't seem to understand what in heaven's name is so fun about these nights wasting away in a high state or intoxicated. He definitely can't relate.

The only reason he still comes to these sleazy things is because of his good old mates and, well Louis. Louis being the main factor of it all honestly because at least Harry had someone there to keep him company that doesn't treat him like yesterday's news when something better comes along. Not only that but Louis makes it all bearable for Harry.

Especially now that he's gotten dragged to them once again after avoiding them at all costs to avoid Louis. But now, Harry is sitting on one of the benches outside next to Louis who has a beer in his hand. Chit chatting with Zayn as they shared a cigarette between each other because apparently, Louis had forgotten his cigarettes back at his dorm, so he bummed off of Zayn. Who actually pried away from Niall as he had different plans for the evening.

So here Harry sat with his legs crossed, eyes shifting between the two boys as they took drags of the shared ciggy. Zayn was telling Louis and Harry that he's been thinking about his and Niall's six month anniversary that's in like a week or two as it was now early into March after all. Mentioning that he wanted to do something big and special for his boyfriend. Which Harry knows for a fact Niall will love no matter what.

Speaking of Niall, he couldn't come out to the party tonight (surprise right?) because he had went home for the weekend to see some family in Ireland. Zayn seemed to be surviving so far with accompanying Louis and Harry throughout the night. Which is fine, Harry likes Zayn, and he wasn't being completely ignored either.

"I think I may just head back to my parents tomorrow as well, haven't seen them or my sisters in days," Zayn mentioned after he took a drag of his cigarette before passing it to Louis."Maybe if I do, I could think more about this anniversary."

"I don't even know why you're sweating over a six month anniversary mate! Why not rather do something massive for the year mark, isn't that better?" Louis inquired. Harry agrees even if he's never experienced it before. Zayn and Niall have only dated for six months, yes that's a milestone or whatever, but it's nothing like a full on twelve months.And Harry has a feeling they'll still be together by then. They've haven't gotten sick of each other yet without how much they're always together and as far as Harry knows their arguments don't last very long or are intense.

Then again Zayn is a big gesture kind of guy so Harry doesn't put it past him.

Zayn let out a sigh, "Because this is important to me, you know" Zayn explained as he brought the cigarette to his lips. "Also you know why, Louis. Don't act like you don't because you do, remember what I told you the other night?" What is the reason? Harry would love to know, but clearly, Zayn isn't ready to share with Harry.

"Still Z, I think you're stressing for nothing because clearly, Niall will fucking love anything you do, right Harold?" Louis asked, eyes now on Harry as the corners of his lips quirked up slightly.

Harry wasn't sure what this was all about now that Zayn and Louis were keeping Harry on the outs of whatever it was Zayn had told Louis the other night. But he does know Niall, better than Louis, probably somewhat better than Zayn even, so this, he can answer.

"Of course! Niall adores you Zayn, seriously" and it was true. Niall is in a constant state of heart eyes and euphoria when it comes to this boy.

"See my point taken" Louis stated as finished the last of their shared cigarette before stomping it out on. "Just wear your best dress and call it good, simple as that."

Zayn didn't look too pleased with any of this at all and it makes Harry wonder what exactly he is stressed about? Is this what Harry thinks it is? That Niall hopes he hears those three big words leave Zayn's mouth? Is it?

"If only it were that simple," Zayn muttered under his breath before he pulled out his phone and quickly checked it. His lips twitching upward for a moment before he finally looked up towards Harry and Louis. "Anyway I suppose I should head back, you know, I have a phone date with my boy." of course he does. This doesn't surprise Harry, those two seriously can't go one night without talking to one another.

Like Harry's one to talk though... Louis and him have been texting daily again. Which is nice and Harry may or may not be accompanying a smile every time he read Louis' name popped into his text notifications.

Thankfully though no one's called him out on it, not yet at least.

After Zayn had left them it was just Louis and Harry. No one else was on the patio smoking or being boisterous, everyone was inside, and the party wasn't as busy as it usually is. Which is fine, Harry doesn't mind, and he doesn't mind at all that he's finally has a moment with Louis.

Unsure of what to say or do, Harry stayed silent as Louis chugged down the rest of his drink.

"So, since this party is getting shitty, want to ditch it with me?" Louis asked as he tossed his cup onto one of the patio tables that had numerous littered cups. "Because you and I both know this party blows and I rather just not waste my time anymore than I have" Yeah, Harry could agree with that as any party was awful and not fun for him. So he nodded, kind of wondering what Louis had in mind instead, hopefully, it involved just the two of them.

Possibly another film marathon or something? Anything sounded better than being immersed in a slew of intoxicated sweaty people.

"So how about we go back to mine then, yeah?" Louis suggested and Harry liked that idea.

"Sounds good to me, Lou."

When they were back at Louis' dorm Harry found himself seated on Louis' bed and no he is not distracted by Louis' arms or collar bones. No he is not. Louis apparently had worn a tank top underneath his denim jacket that he wore quite well honestly.

Louis who is fussing with his fringe as he sat across the bed from Harry with his legs crossed was going on about how he can't wait to be done with his major for good. Saying how he's having a bit of trouble with his essay at the moment. Mentioning that he hates essays and thinks they are the worst thing ever in which Harry can agree.

They are not his strong suit either. But this gave Harry an idea, maybe he could help Louis on it. He would love to see what he has so far even if Harry's not current in his major, maybe he could give pointers or you know read over it to check it. If Louis would let him of course as he's never once asked Harry for a bit of help, as far as he knows Niall's been the lucky one which still surprised Harry as Harry's more diligent between the both of them.

"You know I could always help you." Harry mentioned as he rested his hands in his lap and Louis just smirked at that as he crossed his arms.

"Yeah but I don't want to bore you with something you're not at university for and besides would really want to help me?" Yeah, Harry does.

"Of course, Lou."

Louis just smiled and glanced down to his lap for a moment before his eyes were back on Harry. "Maybe you could help me with my final essay then when the time comes, because I will need another pair of eyes, meaning yours," Louis proposed. "Because I trust you."

The corners of Harry's lips slid upwards because Louis actually was going to let Harry help him out at some point, not only that but he has faith in Harry. He actually wants Harry's opinions and aid on his final essay. That's like an honor to Harry because well it's Louis, the one person that doesn't give a damn about his course of study. Louis actually trusts Harry with something so paramount to his final markings.

It wouldn't be a lie to say Harry heart may have swelled up.

"I'd like that... To help you with your essay." Harry spoke honestly as tucked some of his hair behind his ear.

Then silence took over as it always seems to do between them as they held their eye contact for a moment. Louis was just looking at him with that stupidly gorgeous smile where his eyes crinkled in the corners and god, it's almost as if Louis knows Harry's weakness was this. The way Louis was looking at him right now.

"What?" Harry asked coyly, as he glanced down to his lap, feeling heat inch to his cheeks. Suddenly feeling kind of nervous with that way Louis was just gazing at him with that sparkle in his eyes.

"Nothing, just you're so-" Louis was then cut off when his phone rattled against his nightstand. Louis had cursed before he reached over and checked his phone. Harry just gnawed on his lip, wondering what Louis was about to say before his damn phone decided to prevent whatever it was from leaving Louis' mouth.

Harry didn't bother asking though because if it were important Louis would finish his train of thought after he was done. But clearly, it wasn't because the next thing that left Louis mouth after he tossed his phone on the bedside table took Harry by surprise.

"So Lottie just texted me saying mum would love to have Anne come for lunch next Sunday," Wait what? "I mean if your mum is free of course." Uh, Harry hasn't even brought it up to his mum let alone thought Louis had been serious about it.

They're really going to have their mums meet aren't they?

Next Sunday. Johannah, Louis' mum wants to meet Anne, Harry's mum. Fuck, Harry's so not prepared for that. If he had thought Louis was serious about this two weeks ago then maybe he'd actually wouldn't feel so on edge about it. At least then he could have prepared himself days up until Sunday's luncheon.

But no, nothing ever works in favor and their mums are going to meet. They are going to finally come face to face and possibly reminisce about their lives. More than likely Harry and Louis' lives because they're the reason why this thing was happening. More so Louis then Harry but of course Harry had to stupidly agree with it.

Good god Harry is not ready! Not at all! But Louis just looked so excited at the thought of their mums becoming friends. Harry's torn, because a part of him wants to tell Louis to just drop it because it's not going to happen. Of course, though another part of him is screaming at him to just go through with it no matter how terrifying it may be. Their mums meeting and possibly trying to make things happen between Harry and Louis. Because Harry knows better that once Anne had a moment alone with the guys Harry's currently infatuated withdrew own mum, why, she'd try to do everything in her power to drop hints. Obvious hints that Harry's not sure he's ready to deal with. Not yet at least.

Especially since it'd be absolutely one hundred percent mortifying if Louis so happened found out Harry wanted to be more than friends.

"You know I haven't even talked to my mum about this, Lou," Harry spoke honestly as he bit the inside on his cheek, eyes now on his lap. Fiddling with the sleeve of his top. "I wasn't sure if you were like, serious about it."

Harry wished Louis hadn't been serious, but apparently, he was. Because now Harry's got this weighing on his back with other things. Great.

"Well I wasn't kidding, Harold. My mum got an ear full from me couple days ago and she's quite eager to meet Anne. Thinks it'd be nice," well Harry wished Louis had been teasing him. Really. "Besides we won't even be sticking around much, especially if our mums click. My mums a talker if you haven't already picked up on that," Harry sees where Louis gets it from then, because Louis seems to always to have something on the tip of his tongue.

Not that Harry's minded anyway. Honestly, Harry could listen to Louis ramble on and on for hours and not grow tired. All because it's never seemed to be a dull moment between them. Definitely not because Harry loves the sound of Louis' voice. No, he does not, absolutely not.

"So you up for it, H? I mean you're not going to turn down my mum now are you?" Louis pouted, obviously trying to get his way anyway possible. Harry rolled his eyes but smiled soon after to show he was keeping it light especially since Harry thinks Louis looks too damn adorable when he pouts like a child.

Harry wished he wasn't so smitten for Louis, but of course, his own heart liked to betray him. "Of course not, I'll ring my mum tomorrow." Is what Harry settled on because damn it he likes Louis too much and that pout he's supporting has affected him.

Fucking hell, their parents are going to meet.

It was when the corners of Louis lips slid upwards Harry's heart lurched out of his chest. "Now that's settled let's bring some life into this room shall we?" Louis thankfully decided to change the subject and Harry couldn't agree more on this.

Louis had left the bed briefly, moving to his desk and rummaging through the piles of papers, his textbooks, and his discarded jackets. Until he found his speakers and plugged in his phone. The first song of Jimmy Eat Worlds album Bleed American began playing through his speakers. Just softly enough to kill any silence in the room and Louis' back on the bed this time. Except he's not so far away, no. Louis in arm's length and legs crossed once again and Harry can definitely smell Louis' musky but sweet cologne. Harry's senses may or may not be on overdrive right now.

"Now that I got the music down, how about a game of twenty questions?" Louis questioned. Harry's not too sure about this, what Louis could possibly want to know that he doesn't know already?

Louis' told Harry his whole life story basically since they've become mates. Harry's curious as to why Louis wants to play that silly game. Doesn't usually this game turn sexual too? Well, so Harry's heard from Niall's mouth when the Irish boy had tried finding love online with the help of some apps like Grindr, but failed in the end in that aspect. As every man he came across that had a little bit of charm and good looks, some were creepy and assertive, but were all dickheads that wanted the same thing. To be laid. So this confused Harry why in fact Louis wanted to do this and with Harry. His mate, best mate.

Harry should say no, he definitely should. Especially if like Louis begin to ask questions about who Harry happens to have his eyes set on someone at the moment.

"Uh. Sure."

But his mouth doesn't seem to follow his pattern of thoughts in this. Of course.

Louis soon smirked as he crossed his arms, "I'll start then yeah?" Harry just nodded because this was Louis' idea after all and because he's not too sure what to ask anyway. Not yet at least.

"I'll start off easy, Harold, don't you worry, okay. I won't be mean .... yet!" Yeah, Harry was still quite anxious actually. No matter how Louis tried to reassure him. "But be honest with me, no lying or beating around the bush. No bullshit. Just want to know more about you," Louis explained as he stared at Harry intently.

Harry hoped it would be mutual then when it comes to his turn to ask.

"What's one thing on your bucket list that you want to achieve someday? Don't give me any of that 'I have no clue' shit because everyone has at least one thing they want to accomplish before they're dead." Well it wasn't exactly the easiest question but it was something Harry could answer.

"Mmh I would love to go on a hot air balloon I suppose but not a fan of heights I'm afraid." Harry answered honestly. Because the thought of being far off the ground made his stomach into a mess. He's always avoided ferris wheels, roller coasters, planes, and anything that was fast and far off the ground because of his fear. Anything that could result into him plummeting to his demise basically.

Louis seemed impressed by that answer. "Well looks like I have to break your fear for you then, because I'm not about to let you miss out on all things adventurous and exciting," Louis explained as he leaned over and patted Harry's knee. Sending a jolt of electricity through Harry at the brief contact. "Mark my words, Styles. I'm going to get you over this phobia one way or another when I drag you to some roller coasters this summer."

Uh. Harry's not sure if he agreed with that and also Louis was planning a day around amusement ride with Harry this summer?

When did they make these plans? Not that Harry has any complaints though...

Roller coasters though didn't sound like fun to Harry, not even with Louis. But Harry knows Louis won't let this go and will proceed to pester Harry until he faces his fear because that's who Louis is. The boy Harry is heavily infatuated isn't afraid to try new things and will do anything in his power to get Harry on them too. Damn Harry really likes Louis too much doesn't he?

Then it was Harry's turn and the first thing that pops into his head is something he's been curious about. "Uh. What's your type? I mean what kind of guy or girl are you attracted to?" Well, at least it'd give Harry an idea if he fits the bill or not. You know since Louis admitted he's attracted to Harry anyway and stuff. "I mean since you know what kind of guys I happened to like and all .."

Louis licked his lips before responding, "Well I suppose I do have a thing for someone that has a great personality. They don't have to have a strong one though as being sensitive is always nice," well that's good for Harry's sake. "Always gone for someone a little more passive in the bedroom and out of it when it comes to dating. As I think I'd clash with someone that has a personality like mine." Well, it wasn't exactly the answer Harry was particularly looking for as he hoped for of a physical description. It works though anyway and thankfully Harry fits that part so that's a good sign for him. If Louis ever ended up liking him more than a friend that is and if Harry ever slept with Louis. Not that he has any plans on his first time yet or anything really.

"But anyway, since we're like on the topic of relationships I've been wondering about yours," oh no, Louis wants more in depth about his exs, Harry can just sense it. "What exactly happened with those boys you dated and why in the hell did they leave you? Unless you left them."

Harry swallowed as he looked down to his hands in his lap, twisting them together. He suddenly felt kind of embarrassed about the reasons of his breakups because they were the same damn reason each time. The same exact thing and it makes Harry realize that Louis could possibly feel the same as those boys. Hell, this is probably another massive reason why Louis doesn't want Harry because he has no sexual experience whatsoever.

After taking a breath Harry finally answered, "Because they thought I was being a real prude. They didn't really like that I wouldn't do more than kissing," Harry felt heat inch to his cheeks. "Apparently I'm undateable because I'm a virgin." When Harry raised his head to meet Louis' eyes, the boy kind of looked... irritated?

Which confused Harry because why would he be annoyed by Harry's ex boyfriends? It's not like any of this happened over the past year, it's been years since any of that had gone down. Also not a big deal anyway as he only dated the boys not even more than a month each.

"Fucking unbelievable, they broke up with you because you wouldn't sleep with them?!" Louis complained as he shook his head. "Tells what kind of incompetent twats they were anyway! Can't even respect the fact you're waiting." Harry smiled a little as Louis went on and on about how it bothers him that Harry got dumped both times because he's been abstinent.

"I think you're smart for waiting and anyone that can't see that is a fucking fool. You're more than what those clowns you dated thought of you because you aren't undateable!" Louis continued and Harry felt as if his heart was about to give out. Louis was saying all the right things, his hand now on Harry's thigh (which made the room feel ten times warmer) and god, Harry fucking likes this boy so damn much. "You're so fucking wonderful, stunning as ever, and basically perfect. If no one can see that then they don't deserve you. You're worth so much more than sex, Harry. I promise you that."

Yeah, Harry's stomach was an absolutely atrocious mess.

Harry just sat there blinking and wondering why Louis had to be so right for him but so unattainable. He wants to be with Louis so bad, he wants to reach over and grab his hand, and just be his. It's been making Harry miserable and he hates it, but he can't get over Louis. He's tried and tried so much and it's only gotten worse. Just like right now, Louis saying all that and it made Harry's heart grow five times larger. As if Louis knew exactly what he was saying affected Harry liked it did.

Harry honestly didn't know what to say about all that, the only thing that he could come up with though wasn't anymore than a simple thank you. No idea what to even ask at that anymore and trying to get his mind back in order. You know because Louis could have just said that to make Harry feel better. Still, it doesn't mean Harry's insides weren't a fucking mess because of it.

"Anyway, so let's carry on now, yeah?" Louis decided to end the silence as usual. "So do you have your eyes on anyone in particular?" Oh god, why did Louis have to ask this? Why?

What does Harry even say to this? What had first came to Harry's head is "I have feelings for you" but yeah that's not something Harry planned on saying right now and not so soon. Especially since Louis wants someone else anyway. No need to set himself up for rejection.

"I mean let's be real here, you've had to at least find someone you've come to like since you've came here,"Well Louis isn't wrong but only if he knew who exactly it was Harry fancied. "I mean you liked Mr. Perfect so chances are you've bound to like someone else by now."

Harry gnawed on his lip, deciding if he should just say yes and face the countless nosey questions that may reveal things. Or say no and totally outright lie about it. Which Harry knows that he's not the world's best liar either and he's certain Louis had picked up on that by now.

"Uh. Yeah... but it's a secret." Harry decided on as he felt his cheeks grow much warmer. Especially when his eyes glanced down to Louis' hand still on his thigh. Yeah, so Harry's chest felt increasingly tighter now thanks to that.

When Harry's eyes shot back up, Louis smirked, "Oh. A secret you say?" Yeah and Harry doesn't plan on telling Louis anytime soon. "Hmm, I think I may have found my new goal for the season. Who does Harry Styles like. Because I'll figure it out, I will one way or another, I can promise you that."

Harry's not sure if he should be worried or not now that Louis' on a quest to figure Harry's feelings out.

Unsure of how to go about that, Harry decided to change the subject. As it was his turn to be the one asking the questions.

"Enough about me, it's my turn to interrogate you, Lou," Harry stated as he clamped his hands together tightly in his lap. "Have you always known you're not like.. straight?" Harry figured they could steer away from the whole crushes topic anyway as he felt if things kept going in that direction it may be a disaster. Also Harry's been kind of curious on how Louis' dealt with his sexuality over the years.

Louis looked a bit taken back by the question, probably not expecting to ever be questioned about his sexuality. Not by Harry at least.

Harry nearly frowned when the hand left his thighs finally as Louis scratched at his cheek. Looking to be in thought for a moment before he nodded. "Yeah I suppose I kinda always knew I swung both ways," Louis answered honestly. "Didn't like tell anyone though not until I was like well into my teenage years, mum knew before anyone did, as she kind of knew before I even went to her, " Louis smiled a little, "I even went to her when I had my first time believe it or not." So Louis pretty much tells his mum everything then, well mostly everything and Harry made a mental note of that.

"You did?" Harry couldn't even imagine that. Like he doesn't think he'd be so open to talk about this with Anne. Let alone anyone for the matter.

Louis nodded, "I mean I didn't like go into details or anything, but yeah I did." How can Louis be so open like that? How?

Harry would never tell his own mum that he went off and had sex, no. It'd be weird to him and Harry's certain his mum didn't want to hear about it either.

"But you know what, it may seem weird that I tell mum basically everything. From every person I've come to like, nearly cried about, and other stuff. But she listens and gives any advice from the top of her head. Even if I don't really listen at times." Louis shook his head. "Guess my noggin get a bit hazy sometimes."

"Probably all that pot you smoke, killing brain cells an all!" Harry teased for light measures and was glad to see Louis chuckle a little at that.

"Hey, I don't smoke that much," Louis said in defense as he crossed his arms. "Last time I got stoned was like two days ago, and I think that's impressive."

Yeah, but still that's only forty eight hours. Harry's point still taken, Louis smokes far too much. Not that Harry has any complaints, it's not his life. He's just glad Louis stopped trying to get Harry to go down the path of becoming a stoner.

"To me, you smoke too much, but whatever you say, Louis."

Louis rolled his eyes "Anyway back to our game of twenty questions," honestly Harry was running out of questions to ask at this point as he pretty much knows almost everything about Louis. At least what's coming to his mind so far. "But time to make this game more interesting." Louis smirked and oh no, Harry's not sure if he likes this sudden turn of events in this questionnaire game.

"Oh?"

"This may be a bit forward but, how do you imagine your first time to go?" Uh, was Louis being serious about this?

Why did Louis even want to know the answer to this anyway? As Harry doesn't plan on losing his virginity anytime soon that's for sure.

Honestly Harry has never really imagined in his head how things are supposed to happen. Yeah, he's like fantasized of course but nothing like actually serious. So Harry thought about it for a moment. Biting the inside of his cheek and glancing down to his hands. Already knowing that one things for sure he would have to trust the boy one hundred percent.

What else though?

"Uhm," Harry started as slowly peered back up to Louis who was waiting for Harry's answer. "Well, I guess before anything else I'd have to trust the guy I'm with, of course." Louis seemed pleased by that, "I also think I'd wouldn't want to be rushed into doing many things, also understanding that I've never done anything with anyone before, and I suppose not shaming me either for like not being experienced." Harry answered honestly and Louis nodded as if he understood completely.

"So basically when you know you're in love with him then?" Louis inquired.

"Yeah, I believe so." Questions is, will Harry ever get to that point though?

As he's had awfully bad luck when it comes to dating and such.

"And what about physically? Do you have like a perfect scenario played out in your head? Like who does what and so on?" Louis prompted and Harry swallowed at that.

Seriously, why does Louis want to know this?

What for?

"I guess I always thought I'd have whoever I was with take the lead."

Hopefully this was enough insight for Louis because Harry's not sure what else he could say. Like it's not like he plans to do anything anytime soon. Harry has loads of time to think more about making love with whatever boy happens to stick around long enough.

So Harry decided to be the one to change the subject onto Louis as it was his turn anyway."How was your first time then?" Well, he might as well know how Louis' time went with his ex boyfriend anyway. As Harry recalls Louis saying he lost his virginity to Michael. "Also how... I mean... was it everything you thought it'd be?"

Hopefully it doesn't bother Louis that Harry was prying about that after all.

Louis' smile soon disappeared from his lips as he looked thoughtful for a moment. Harry was starting to regret even asking because that look on Louis' face right now wasn't pleasant. Obviously, it affected Louis is some way.

"You know what never mind, Lou. I can ask something else," Harry stated but Louis shook his head as he gave Harry a weak smile in reassurance. Harry of course seen right through that but before he could do anything Louis started to talk.

"When I lost my virginity I was certain Michael would have been around for a while, thought maybe that we'd even get married one day." Well, that wasn't exactly what Harry expected to hear. "But of course I was so fucking young and in love, I thought so many things. I was sixteen for crying out loud and I thought he was everything."

Harry just let Louis talk because maybe it'll make himself feel better.

"You know I had the same views as you before I gave it away, I wanted to be with the right person. Which I thought at the time was my boyfriend," Louis' sounded a bit sad. Harry didn't like it, he didn't like this Michael guy at all. "But I was wrong, Harry. Michael had met someone better and found to want to be with them instead."

Yeah, Harry very much so disliked Michael and glad he was out of Louis' life. Harry can't even imagine how Louis' ex could find anyone better than Louis. Louis is everything to Harry and just so damn wonderful. It blows his mind that Louis had experienced heartbreak to begin with because Harry knows if he ever got to be with Louis he'd never hurt Louis. Never because he couldn't imagine even doing so.

Harry cares so damn much for Louis.

"But back to your question because I got a bit off topic," Louis explained as Harry did something he normally wouldn't do. Something that made him terrified to do when it comes to Louis. He reached over and grabbed Louis' hand to comfort him. It's all Harry could even do because he had next to no experience with love. But at least Louis seemed to be okay with this, especially when he squeezed Harry's hand.

Which Harry squeezed Louis' hand back and gave him a smile.

"My first time wasn't perfect I'll say because it took me a few tries after to see what worked best for me. Michael thankfully didn't fight me on it when I told him I preferred to be like the one to not be on the receiving end, if you know what I mean ..." Yeah, so Louis prefers to top, which is fine by Harry. Absolutely okay and Harry is totally not thinking about it in his head right now, nope.

"But you know I've put off dating for so long as I've told you getting attached scares the fuck out of me. Well, I think I'm ready now for a serious relationship." Louis finally admitted and Harry was glad to hear that. He was even if he knows for a fact Louis wasn't meaning a serious relationship with Harry, his best mate.

"I know I told you back in Brighton that I've reconsidered it, but I'm certain now because I want this guy so damn bad, but I don't know how to like go about things," Louis went on and Harry's heart panged a little at that. "I don't want to screw it up, because I think... I may be falling in love with this guy."

Harry's heart felt like it hit the pit of his stomach. No, he did not like to hear that at all, but right now was not the time to make it about himself. About his heart. This was about Louis finally confiding into Harry about personal things and not about Harry's unrequited feelings towards Louis.

Nope.

"And I'm kind of worried because it feels more intense with him than it did with Michael." Louis finished and yeah, Harry felt a bit sick to his stomach now.

Not because Louis had found someone to be his prince charming, but because Harry's own heart may have some strain on it.

But Louis told Harry that he's in love with this boy (possibly) and Harry shouldn't be feeling sad now. Harry is supposed to be a good mate and he's trying. He's really fucking trying right now.

It doesn't help when Louis squeezed Harry's hand once again and pulled it more into his lap. Harry wanted to move closer, maybe cuddled up beside Louis, and tell him this boy Louis has his heart on couldn't possibly say no.

Harry can't though, he just can't. It almost brings tears to his eyes to even think about it. Harry wants Louis, he wants to be the one Louis is talking about, wants to be the one Louis loves.

It hurts. It really fucking hurts.

"I need to use the toilet." Was all Harry said as his words were rushed as he quickly ruled his hand from Louis' and scurried into the bathroom. Locking the door behind him and pressing him back against the door.

As Harry rubbed his hands over his face he blinked back the wetness that came to his eyes. He shouldn't be the one crying now, not in Louis' bathroom. All because Louis is in love with someone that isn't him and Harry doesn't understand why he's feeling so overwhelmed or emotional about it. He needs to accept that Louis is nothing more than a friend.

But it's hard because the mere thought of Louis with this guy in his class. It made Harry so ill and almost frustrated because he wants it so bad. So fucking bad that it's almost making him feel wretched again.

Except Harry just took a deep breath leaning his head back against the door. Blinking his eyes to prevent any tears he so desperately wanted to shed and checked himself in the mirror.

Louis trusts Harry with what he just shared and the last thing Harry should be doing is crying over his friend in Louis' bathroom.

After collecting himself and made it look like he didn't seem affected at all he decided to head back in. Face the music once again unless Louis was busy with something else.

Which he was... Louis was no longer on his bed and his tank top was discarded on the ground. Right as Harry walked out and all Harry can do is stand there and stare like a creep. Because no matter how many times he's seen Louis' shirtless, Harry's always stunned.

Harry can't help it though, Louis' so fit, and he looked so good standing there in his black ripped tight fitted trousers that rode a little low on his hips. Harry wants to touch. He does, but he doesn't. Instead, Harry just cleared his throat and Louis looked up at him finally.

Maybe Harry should leave because now it feels kind of weird for him. But his heart is telling him to stay and be with Louis. At least for a little longer so it wasn't obvious just how affected Harry was by that conversation that just occurred.

"So uh, I forgot to ask you," Harry started as he peeled his eyes away from Louis (thank god) and fell on the guitar case under the bed. Giving Harry an idea and excuse to not talk about what that was just now. "Will you ever let me hear you sing?"

Louis face had fallen into a grimace as he crossed his arms. "I don't think so, no," Harry still didn't understand why Louis was so against singing. He sounded lovely when Harry overheard him once. "I'm doing you a favor by not making your ears bleed as I sound so fucking awful." Louis has an impressively beautiful voice to Harry, no matter what Louis says.

"I think you sound amazing, Lou. I promise."

Louis looked a bit confused as he stared at Harry. Probably forgotten Harry overheard him singing along to Nirvana behind the door.

"I would love to hear you sing at least once and I swear I wouldn't laugh." Harry wouldn't because there's no reason too. Louis' a fantastic singer and Harry wished Louis would just realize that.

But Harry remembered that Louis had never sung in front of anyone before and he didn't plan to anytime soon. But that was months ago and this was now and maybe just maybe Louis will think about it. Hopefully at least.

Louis still didn't look entirely convinced and Harry knew he had to do more reassuring. Which he knows probably won't get him anywhere but Louis really does have such a unique beautiful voice. He wants Louis to realize that too because someone has to do it or else Louis will always be insecure when it comes to his singing abilities.

"I wouldn't lie to you, Lou. You know I wouldn't, but only when you're ready, okay?"

Louis didn't offer a response as he just pushed his tank top with his foot towards a small pile of clothes near the overflowing laundry basket. Harry frowned as he watched Louis stand there who acted as if he didn't just hear what Harry just said. He was already slipping on a hoodie and zipping up just far enough where his chest tattoo is noticeable. Mentioning he was up for a walk and could use one more smoke for the night.

As much as Harry wanted to keep reassuring Louis he'd be supportive, he just nodded. No point in trying to keep trying because what good would it do?

Louis will just keep shutting that down.

But Harry will wait in due time because maybe Louis will eventually come around to the idea. Hopefully.

Come morning, Harry was sat at his desk chair around ten wondering if he should give Gemma a ring or not.

Ever since he's made it back to his dorm after Louis walked him back (which was super sweet) Harry's been a bit conflicted. Still rather hurt and he thought maybe talking to Gemma about it might help. You know since she was the first to figure Harry liked Louis and well it's his sister. Someone that actually had experience in this particular situation. Not only that but he needed to check with Gemma to see if having Anne and Jay meeting is like a sign for something serious.

Harry just needed to talk to her before he goes off to tell to his mum about next Sunday.

Oh how Harry wished this wasn't his problem.

After a moment passes the phone in his hand and he's scrolling to Gemma's name in his contacts.

Hopefully she was up for a chat and not at work... hmm yeah, maybe Harry should have sent a text first. It was too late though because not even three rings in, Gemma had answered.

So here goes nothing...

"Hello Harold." Gemma teased and Harry rolled his eyes at that. She's not once ever called him that, no one calls him that, except Louis. Because Louis does whatever he wants and Harry's come to accept that.

Louis calling him Harold and for some reason, it sounded right coming from him. But not Gemma, especially with that goading she's doing in this morning already.

"Gemma, I'm not calling to have you start that now, I actually need to talk to you," Harry said seriously as he tapped his fingers against his iced coffee he had attained half an hour ago. "If you're free of course."

Harry heard a humming on the line as if Gemma had been in thought for a moment. Obviously being a pest as she always liked to be and Harry honestly didn't find it funny either.

"I suppose I can free up my precious time to hear what's going on there and all," Gemma explained as if Harry's situation was taking up a greater part of her day. "So what's up, H?"

Harry ran his fingers through his curls and thought about exactly what he was even going to start with.

Should he flat out tell Gemma he might possibly going even more miserable that Louis' very much so unattainable? Or should he talk about their mums meeting first off?

Ugh Harry doesn't even know!

Apparently Gemma could sense something was a bit off and killed the silence. "This happens to be about Louis, isn't it?"

It's amazing just how scarily accurate she could be sometimes.

"Yeah," Harry answered in a crooned tone as he took a sip of his coffee. "I really need to talk you Gems, so please."

"Well I'm all ears, so go on." Hopefully, Gemma says what she means this time because Harry isn't feeling up to being interrupted.

Harry chewed on the inside of his cheek as he came to the conclusion of venting his feeling first and then go on about their mums. Seemed to make more sense to Harry anyway.

After Harry cleared his throat he just said whatever had come to his mind first.

"Louis is practically in love with this boy in his class and it makes me so ill thinking about it. I feel like crying over it, Gems," Well it's straight to the point and even saying that all out loud, Harry had a lump in the back of his throat. "I like him so much."

"You mean you're falling in love with him?"

What?!

That's not what Harry was implying, not at all. Harry's not sure if he'd describe his emotions towards Louis as like love feelings.

How would Gemma know anyway? The last time he talked to her about Louis was on his birthday. So she's more than likely just joking and Harry makes himself believe that. It makes Harry feel better if he thinks she's just trying to be funny.

"Gemma this isn't a time to mess around. I'm rather upset that I can't have him," Harry stressed as he covered his hand over his face. "It's just not fair at all."

Gemma had let out an unimpressed sigh, "Who said I was messing around?" Harry's certain he's not falling in love with Louis. That's why she has to be messing around because it makes no sense otherwise. "Love isn't fair, H. You can't pick and choose who your heart wants, just putting that out there."

Well no shit. But Harry's not in love, he's just massively infatuated with Louis. That's it.

"Like I said before, you're falling in love with him. End of story."

"I am not!" Harry answered quickly and Gemma just chuckled.

Harry narrowed his eyes at that. "What's so funny?"

"Oh nothing, just the fact that you were so suspiciously quick to tell you're not falling for him is all," Gemma sounded too smug and Harry didn't appreciate it at all. "Also you know you're like the worst liar ever and I still can't believe you're denying it."

Yeah because Harry isn't lying.

"I'm not denying anything, Gemma. I don't..." Harry's voice trailed off unable to say it out loud.

"Love him? Right, okay." Gemma finished that for him sounding a little too self-satisfied. Harry drew his lips back into a snarl, now with crossed arms, and leaned back against his seat.

"Well I don't, okay?"

Gemma hummed in response and god, this was getting annoying. He didn't ring her to be teased about his feelings towards Louis. He wanted to just vent and maybe have some advice. But of course, Gemma can't even be serious for two minutes without pushing Harry's buttons.

"Right," Yeah, Gemma definitely didn't buy it. "Anyway, other than you being in denial. Who is this boy who caught Louis' heart? And why exactly are you putting yourself through torture by being Louis' friend still?"

Harry's not too sure how he feels about talking about this other Harry in Louis' life. Especially after not even knowing the boy and secondly the fact Harry's heart chips away anytime he thinks about it. But then again maybe Gemma could give him some ample advice not only about that, but on what he should do.

Because Harry doesn't know what to do anymore.

After Harry thought for a moment he found his voice, even if felt like something was pulverizing his chest. "It's this boy in his class, Harry. Louis has fancied him since like.. I believe... since October," Harry pressed his eyes shut, not liking to think about this one bit. "Apparently he's so perfect and just right for Louis, even though he's apparently rather antithesis compared to Louis."

Then there was silence on the line and Harry didn't like it, not at all. So he continued to talk to fill the void in the air.

"Which confuses me because Louis made fun of me for being the exact same. I just don't understand, Gemma. I don't," Harry wished he could just read Louis mind. If only. "But I can't just stop being mates with him either, because I don't think I could live without him."

It was brutally honest and Harry hopes Gemma understands that Louis' not leaving as his friend anytime soon.

"Are you sure the Harry he's talking about isn't you?" Gemma asked.

"Yeah, Gemma. I'm positive on this one, so don't even start on that okay, it's bad enough I have to even think about it." Harry stressed into the phone, opening his eyes up again as he moved to take a sip of his drink.

"What's Louis' number?"

Huh?

"What- Gemma what does this have to do with anything?" Harry clearly wasn't understanding where exactly his sister was going with this.

"I want to ring him and have a little chat is all, none of your concern. Just hand over Louis number, Harry, please." Gemma explained and Harry was already shooting that down. Gemma is not going to get Louis' number and she is definitely not going to have this chat she wants with him.

This is not happening.

"Uh. How about no." Harry answered sharply because no, that's not happening on his watch. Why, Gemma would end up exposing Harry's feelings to Louis especially with her shit abilities at acting. Not only that but Harry recalls her mouth being loose back on New Years when she said Harry always talks about Louis.

So no, Harry's not going to give it to her.

Not even on the promise of anything could convince Harry otherwise. No.

"Oh come on, Harry. Don't be stubborn about his number now, I just want to talk to him is all, especially since you don't bring Louis home with you." Gemma explained as if Harry was being unfair about it all. "I mean how else will I ask Louis if he's in love with you?"

Ugh, Harry didn't want to keep on the whole love subject anymore!

"You're not going to ever have Louis' number because it's not happening, Gemma. So stop." Harry replied firmly as he was so done with this already. "Anyway since you were like no help at all, I suppose I should ask you about another matter," god, Harry really didn't want too, but he needed to talk to her about Jay and Anne meeting soon.

Hopefully she's serious this time and not teasing Harry relentlessly to get under his skin as usual.

"Hey, I was only giving you advice you were clearly wanted and needed." Harry didn't really consider that all advice. "But clearly you're not appreciating my impeccable guidance. So go on and tell me what else you had to ask."

Harry hoped at least Gemma would be somewhat helpful about the topic of parents meeting. Because he's never been in this situation and Gemma's well more experienced in this area anyway.

"So, I'm going to call mum shortly after to see how she feels about meeting Jay, Louis' mum next Sunday." Even saying it out loud made Harry nervous.

How is he even going to survive that day, how?

"Louis' the one who suggested it, by the way, wants them to be friends I guess, but I don't know. Isn't it that weird?" Harry went on as he moved out is his spot he started to pace around his room. "Isn't that what you do when you are dating?"

God, Harry felt a mess thinking about it now.

It shouldn't even be this big of a deal because they are just two best friends wanting their parents to get on. It's not supposed to mean anything, but Harry can't help it. His mind keeps screaming at him that it's crossing that platonic line.

So no wonder he's freaking the hell out.

Just mildly though.

"Well that certainly is an interesting situation, isn't it?" Gemma answered, sounding a bit smug if you asked Harry. "Are you sure you're not the Harry's he's on about? Because having mum meet his is kind of a big deal, H. Just saying." Like that made Harry feel any better about it.

"I mean I could be wrong but that's highly unlikely since I'm always right, you know." Gemma snickered into the phone.

"Gemma," Harry sneered into the phone, not ready to hear more of this. "I'm being serious."

"Okay.. okay don't go spare and relax, Harry," Yeah, relaxing was an understatement right now. "But I do believe it'd be nice to get mum out of the house anyway, makes some friends and all that."

That was the upside of it all, other than spending time with Louis of course. But Harry has that worry if Anne's gets to be chatty with Jay things may come out and Harry's a bit on edge about that.

"I think you're going to be okay, H." Gemma reassured and that was nice of her. As much as she was annoying at times, Gemma had her sweet moments.

Harry didn't spend much longer on the phone with her after that. Gemma had filled his ear with how he should really come home soon so they can catch up. Maybe bring Louis with him, but Harry shut that down instantly. Changing the subject back to him just coming home soon and maybe visiting Gemma as well. As she lives in Manchester anyway, thankfully she had agreed on that and even threw in a remark about Louis tagging along once again, but Harry hung up shortly after, not in the mood anymore.

No, Harry was not thinking about what Gemma said about Harry falling in love with Louis. No, he's most definitely not.

Then it was finally time to call Anne regarding lunch with Jay. Which Harry was hesitating to do but he ended up just going through with it. Which thankfully Anne didn't ask too many questions and was happy to meet Louis' mum. Harry had told his mum in the process of all that to not tell Jay that he likes Louis and not try to drop any hints either. Harry didn't need any of that to happen and Anne just thought Harry was being worried for no reason at all and is only interested in getting to know Johannah, that's it.

Well Harry would have to wait and see about that.

So looks like Anne and Jay meeting was definitely happening.

Harry's so screwed.

*****

When it rolled into the following Sunday, Harry's a bundle of nerves on his way to Doncaster. Louis was busy driving and acting as if there wasn't anything to be worried about.

Fucking hell, Harry's so nervous.

It's early in the morning and they've only been on the motorway for a little over an hour now. As Louis had wanted an early start to Jays as lunch was set to begin around noon.

It's been months since Harry has been at Louis' mums and that alone make him on edge. He doesn't know Louis' family all that well and he's about to spend his day there. His whole day in Doncaster with Louis at Jay's house where Louis' sisters reside.

Not only that but his mum is going to show up sometime during all that and Harry's unsure how that's going to play out. He is staying (slightly) positive about it all though as he could be panicking for no reason at all. Harry should trust his mum, he should. But it's hard as Harry knows that he fancies Louis and well Jay wanted to set them up, it's hard not to worry.

But right now Harry's not going to think about all that, he's not. Not when he peels his gaze from the window and looked out the corners of his eyes towards Louis. Who looked absolutely breathtaking by the way as he donned a beanie over his messy hair the peaked out and his signature denim jacket. Harry still don't understand why something so casual would look exquisite on Louis.

It doesn't make sense to Harry, but nothing about Louis makes sense.

"So what are you doing on March 25th?" Louis brought up suddenly with his eyes still on the road and breaking Harry out his gaze. Hmm ..

Harry doesn't even know what he's doing a week from now, so why would he knows what he's doing on that rather specific date?

"I'm .. I don't think I have anything planned, Lou." Harry answered honestly as he glanced at Louis. Wondering where this was leading to knowing there had to be reason behind it.

The corners of Louis' lips slip upwards and Harry has a feeling that Louis wants to drag him somewhere. Which is something Harry had picked up on over time since he's gotten roped into many trips.

"Well now you do so don't make any other plans on that date, Harold." Harry knew it, but he wondered what exactly Louis was planning two weeks from now?

"Mind telling me why?"

"It's a surprise. Just don't make any other plans." Louis beamed as he took a passing glance towards Harry for a moment before they were back on the road.

Oh god, another surprise.

Harry should really tell Louis he's not one for surprises, shouldn't he?

Hopefully this time Louis won't be spending all his money on Harry. Because Harry was going to put his foot down on that one, especially since it's not like making up for anything. Not only that but Harry would feel guilty if Louis went broke because he wanted to buy Harry stuff.

For the rest of the trip it seemed to go by rather quickly than Harry had wanted. Maybe it didn't help that during the last hour of their trek Louis was on the subject of his band. Telling Harry that they have a few more gigs lined up in the coming weeks and Louis expects Harry to come to one of them and maybe to a band practice too. As Louis apparently respects Harry's opinions and such.

Harry of course agreed because the more time spent with Louis, the better. Even if things are rather weird for him, he still needed to be a supportive best mate.

As he would do for Niall and Ed as well.

By the time they were outside Louis' mums, it had started to sprinkle and Harry was eager to dodge the rain and stay dry. Even if he was feeling quite unsettled about this lunch, he'd rather not be sopping wet anyway.

Thankfully the rain was fairly light and didn't reek havoc on his garments or hair as they quickly made their way inside. Harry trailing behind Louis because he's feeling a bit perturbed that his mum will be here soon. Not only that but he's seeing Louis' family again.

Yes, they were all super friendly last time, but it still didn't mean Harry wasn't nervous. Just something about this happening, their mum's meeting, felt a bit serious to Harry. He still had Gemma's words on his mind about how this was a big deal and everything she said about Louis loving him.

Gemma couldn't be right could she?

Louis has feelings for the Harry in his class, not him... right?

Now was definitely not the time to be thinking about that, not when Louis had led them into the kitchen where Jay was preparing lunch; Louis' sisters nowhere to be seen.

"We're here mum, made it safe and sound as usual." Louis boasted as he leaned against the counter top and Harry just stood there silently. Not to sure of what to do or say as he didn't really know Jay all that well still.

Jay who was busy stirring something in a saucepan glanced up and smiled warmly at them. "Good to see you made it before the rain, boys," Yeah, Harry was quite thankful for that as well. "But unfortunately lunch won't be ready for sometime.." Jay explained as her eyes went back down to the pot.

Louis had glanced at Harry briefly before his eyes landed back on Jay. "Well, I suppose we'll just be getting out of your hair then, mum." Louis joked as he nodded for Harry to follow him out. Harry of course trailed behind Louis like a lost puppy until they ended up back in Louis' room.

Harry was now sat beside Louis who was sitting so damn close to him on his bed that obviously has enough room to put space between them. But no, Louis wanted to sit close enough where their shoulders would bump. Not that Harry minded because he didn't, but he doesn't understand it.

It's quiet between them, a little too quiet. Harry's unsure of what to really say especially with the way Louis' eyes were burning on him. Which Harry felt increasingly hot every second that passed because Louis wasn't saying anything, just staring at him. Well, that is until Louis had lunged at him and started tickling Harry's sides.

That little shit!

Louis should know tickle fights are not allowed, not when Harry's pulling away and was in utter hysterics as Louis continued to overpower him. Not letting up easily as he moved with Harry, fingers tickling along Harry's sides. Harry tried pulling away and scooting farther down Louis' bed, but Louis was too quick in his spot.

It was when Harry's back hit the plushness of Louis' pillows when he tried grasping onto Louis' wrists, laughing harder than before and trying to get Louis to stop. But damn, Louis is too strong and not giving up. Not when he's laughing right along with Harry with that stupidly attractive grin on his face.

"Louis, please," Harry managed to say while laughing as Louis continued his evil doings of making Harry laugh harder. Well, that is until Louis had fallen onto of him in the process, their laughter faded out. Now Harry's breath is caught in his throat and Louis' not moving, he isn't moving off of Harry. No.

Louis is on top of him, body pressed into him, and Harry's uncertain what to do now. Even when Louis moved to brace his arms on either side of Harry and searching his face. Harry is so unsure of this and not moving a muscle. Not even blinking because he's worried that if he does, maybe this was all just an illusion.

But even when Harry does blink and it's not all in his head, Louis' eyes are still giving it away that they're exploring Harry's features. Which Harry can't help but notice how blue Louis' eyes are even though he's stared into them numerous times (guilty as charged), Harry can't get over just how gorgeous they are. Even Louis' eyelashes were quite impressive to Harry as they splayed beautifully against his cheek whenever he fluttered his eyes shut.

Damn it, Harry's heart was betraying him again and going erratic ever second that Louis was not moving off of him.

Why wasn't Louis moving and why is he staring at Harry like that?

It seemed as if something was happening here and Harry's still not sure about anything and just lays there, eyes going between Louis' eyes and his lips. Feeling an urge to capture Louis' lips with his own. Harry bravely brought up a hand to Louis' cheeks and slid his thumb across the scruffiness. The corners of Louis's lips slid upwards and Harry certain his hearts about to give out because Louis' just so beautiful.

If Harry was in any right mind he would have never done that at all, cup Louis' cheek. But hell, Louis' just right there, up close, and Harry wanted to touch him. Harry wanted to kiss Louis so damn bad and staring at his bitten lips did no good either.

His breath hitched in his throat when he felt as if Louis' face was slowly crowding his space, well that is until he quickly pulled away when a loud pounding on the other side of Louis' door. Totally catching Harry off guard as he laid there blinking as Louis let out a heavy sigh, seeming a bit annoyed by the sudden interruption.

"Harry your mums here." Jay announced on the other side of the door and fuck. Harry's not ready. No, like he hasn't even been here long enough and Anne is already shown up.

But Harry's not as worried about that as how what just happened five seconds ago, happened.

Was Louis about to kiss him?

Harry must have been hallucinating because Louis had no reason to kiss him. Not at all. Harry's certain Louis wouldn't try that again after the whole Manchester incident anyway. So Harry rules it as him misconstruing the moment between them as it made more sense.

Because Louis likes someone else.

When Harry had finally gotten off the bed he wasted no time to exit Louis room that felt quite warm and airless suddenly. Harry needed to get out as soon as he could even if it meant dashing out to greet his mother and the beginning of lunch.

Which Harry is still unsettled with on top of the other things going on in his mind.

Louis wasn't far behind Harry as they went to the kitchen and the first thing Harry heard as they grew closer was that familiar voice, his mum's voice.

"Oh how wonderful this all smells, do you need any help?" Is what Harry hears when he stepped into the kitchen and Harry thinks Anne must have come inside before Jay interrupted them. Not that they were like doing anything anyway...

"Hey mum." Harry spoke up rather loudly as he crossed his arms, feeling himself begin to sweat.

Is the heat turned up too high or something? or is Harry's jumper that's the cause of the sudden heat wave penetrating the air?

Whatever it is, clearly making Harry feel uncomfortable and hopes it just cools down soon enough.

The last thing Harry needs is to be all clammy and irritable because it's far too broiling in the house.

"Hey honey," Anne's eyes fell on Harry with a grin. "You look a little flushed, are you okay?" and shit, he's found out. Of course, his own mum had to pick up on the fact Harry was sweltering in the kitchen.

"Uhm." Harry began unfit to consider what to say at all now that his mouth suddenly felt dry.

Harry felt as if everyone's eyes were on him, just staring waiting for an answer. Yeah, that alone made Harry feel even more self conscious.

"It is a bit warm in here, isn't it?" Jay finally spoke up, thank god.

"Fucking hot as hell if you ask me." Louis chimed in which earned a glare from Jay.

"Language, Louis." Jay scolded as Harry just bit back a smile, feeling slightly better that Louis was the one getting the heat.

Louis rolled his eyes as then Jay told Louis she needed help and for Anne and Harry to go sit at the table as they're guests in her home. Louis didn't appear to be excessively satisfied with assisting with lunch, yet perhaps he shouldn't have cursed in front of Jay.

Harry sat beside him mum, flapping the front of his jumper as he sat there, and watching Louis from the kitchen. Looking somewhat irritated, well that's is until he noticed Harry's eyes on him and gave a smile when they made eye contact briefly. Harry of course looked away as he felt his cheeks grow increasingly warmer, hoping Anne hadn't been watching the entire thing.

"You need to calm down, I can tell you're feeling quite anxious." Anne pointed out as she frowned at Harry who was pushing up his sleeves now.

"I'm fine, mum." Harry lied as he closed his eyes momentarily.

But of course Anne sees right through it, "Well just take a deep breath and relax. Everything going to be fine, honey."

Yeah, Harry's still uncertain if this evening is going to be just fine. Because who knows what could happen in a mere hour or so, depending on how long Anne stays.

Eventually Louis' sisters had shown up as they had apparently come back from shopping with their friends. Surprisingly Louis' sisters had remembered Harry and his name even though he hadn't seen them in months. But then again Harry wouldn't be shocked to know if Louis didn't retell them about him.

As Louis was quite excited about their mum's meeting.

God, Harry's still feeling quite warm and it didn't help when Louis sat across from him either, no. Great now he had to look at Louis who makes his heart go a million miles a minute and deal with whatever Jay and Anne reminisce about.

This was going to be a long day...

Harry thought lunch would have been a disaster the moment they all had sit down to eat. However, he was wrong as Anne was busy complimenting Jay on the roast and potatoes. Which honestly relieved Harry in a way they weren't jumping into playing matchmaker already. That's what Harry had been dreading the most, but so far so good.

Jay was enlightening Anne regarding how she didn't like that Louis was four hours away and wished he would have went to somewhere closer. But is happy Louis is graduating this year and just how proud she is of him.

Which of course Anne had to add that she feels the same having her last born being so far. Not liking the distance or the fact Harry only comes to visit once in a blue moon (oops?). Mentioning she's proud of just how serious he takes his coursework and thinks he's going to be a wonderful nurse.

Harry just kept his comments to himself and just smiled, feeling totally relaxed now. Lunch was going so much better than expected. The foods absolutely splendid as last time and every time he's made eye contact with Louis he received a smile back.

The girls, Lottie and Fizzy were busy gossiping about some friend stuff as Anne started asking Louis questions.

"So Louis what are your plans after Uni?" Anne addressed with a smile as she took a bite of the roast on her plate.

Louis looked somewhat shocked Harry's mum was wondering about his plans, but thankfully he just answered.

"Well I think.. I'm going to spend time here for sometime and eventually look for a job in London," Louis explained honestly as he flicked his gaze towards Harry for a moment before it went back on Anne. "Then possibly get my own flat with Zayn, my best mate I think."

Honestly Harry was glad Louis seemed to be sticking with that plan. He just wonders if Louis would confront that boy he likes after Uni or before. Either way, it doesn't sit well with Harry, but he wasn't going to worry about that now. As Anne was telling Louis that sounded like a good plan and proceeded to ask him about his career.

Harry mainly kept to himself and didn't really say anything as he ate his veggies quietly. Stabbing his fork into one of the brussel sprouts as Jay was asking Anne how she does it at home without her children home. Jay and Anne seemed to be getting on well thankfully.

Inevitably lunch slowly turned into desert with sponge cake and tea. Which was absolutely delicious and Harry managed to finish every little crumb off his plate. Earning a pleased look from Jay that Harry had enjoyed his dessert.

"How about you kids go off and do something now, yeah? I want to talk to Anne, some more before she has to go." Jay advised with a sincere smile as she started to pick up everyone's filthy plates.

Apparently watching Disney films seemed to be a favorite in the Tomlinson household. Last time Harry watched something with Louis it was Snow White and now he's sharing a couch with Louis in the living room watching The Lion King. It may seem like they're all a bit old to be watching this, but Harry has a soft spot for classic disney films and apparently, Louis' family does too. Lottie and Fizzy were there too but not on the couch with them, they were on the floor and on there phones busy texting or whatever. Harry's not really paying much attention to the film anyway, how can he when Louis' sitting so close to him it was unnecessary as there was a whole cushion on the other side of Louis that could have been occupied. But no, Louis apparently needed to be close to Harry and Harry couldn't help but glance down to Louis' hand that was resting on his own thigh and Harry ached to reach for it, he did. But didn't and tried his best to listen to Simba singing I just can't wait to be king.

It's just hard though, it's so fucking hard when all Harry can think about slowly reaching over and intertwining their fingers. Damn, Harry wants to so badly.

If his mind can't get any more unfocused he could faintly hear Johannah and Anne chatting away in the kitchen. Harry gnawed on his lip and tried listening in and nearly choked on his spit when he heard that Jay thinks Harry would be so good for Louis if they dated. Saying how Harry is highly ambitious from all that Louis' said about him. Anne of course agreed and mentioned she'd like to see Harry with a boy that makes him happy, and she tossed Louis' name in the mix (of course she did) that Louis seems to make her son happy.

Oh god, their mothers want them together.

Harry doesn't know how to feel about it so he tunes whatever is left of their discussion out and hopes to god Louis didn't catch what they were saying in the kitchen. Hopefully, no one in the living room heard what was said about Harry and Louis potentially being set up.

Turns out trying focus back on the movie was quite a task when Louis had gotten up for a moment and was sat even closer. There was next to no space between them now and Harry could have sworn at one point Louis' was about to touch his thigh, but his mind could have been playing tricks on him.

Thankfully the movie eventually came to an end and Louis was dragging Harry down the hall towards the bedrooms.

Back in Louis' room Harry stood there unobtrusively as Louis was caught up with opening his closet door and fumbling through it. Seeing the peaks of Louis' poster and smiling at the memory of Louis getting shamefaced about it. Harry thinks maybe they should have a film marathon on Harry's terms with an array of Ryan Gosling films as he's sure Louis would be enthralled about that.

However, on the other hand, would he really want to spend a whole night with Louis... alone? With the potential of falling asleep again?

Harry's not sure about it honestly especially since he has these feelings towards Louis and all. Since Harry feels as if they did happen to you know, sleep next to each other, Harry wouldn't be sure if a cuddle might ensure or not. That's what he's worried about, especially since Louis' been clingy towards him recently.

But now was not the time to be thinking about an epic film night with Louis, no. In fact, Louis (thankfully) kicked his closet door shut and had a box tucked against his arm.

"Okay so since I'm like the best mate in the whole wide world, I figured I could sacrifice my evening doing something more of your tastes for once," Louis explained as he moved to the center of his room. "You know see what the fuss is about the puzzle life and all."

Did Harry hear Louis correctly? Did he just say the puzzle life?

Is Louis considering doing a puzzle with Harry?

Harry must be dreaming because never in a million years would he ever expect that to leave Louis Tomlinson's mouth.

It was confirmed when Louis had dumped an entire box on his floor, all the pieces of the puzzle scattering about. There must be no less than 2000 pieces there and Harry considers whether Louis realizes what he's getting into. Because Harry certain Louis may get fairly bored, especially with something so tedious.

Not only that but this may take them the whole night if Louis intends to finish it anyway.

"You really want to sit here and do a puzzle with me?" Harry inquired as he gazed at the haphazard jigsaw pieces on the floor. "Why?"

Louis let out an unimpressed sigh, almost as if he were expecting Harry to just be grateful that he was up for the challenge.

"Because I want to see what makes this so fun for you, Harold." Louis explained matter of factly.

"And what happened to the Louis who's too cool for puzzle as I remember calling it an elderly pass time?" hmm?" Harry teased, feeling rather happy Louis wanted to do this with him.

Louis just smirked as he moved to sit on the floor cross legged, "I'm still cool and besides, maybe I could use a quiet night with my best mate, don't always need to get high or drunk to have fun."
Harry couldn't even believe his ears, Louis just said he doesn't need vices to have a good time. What kind of parallel universe is this? A dream? Or something?

Either way, Harry's not about to pass up this once in a lifetime off to do puzzle with Louis.

Come a little later when they were sat beside it each other Harry had surveyed the box as tried to gather all the perimeter pieces in the process. Louis, on the other hand was far too busy going about his own routine and working on the exterior which was kind of comical as Louis was spewing out curse words when the pieces didn't fit. Harry just simpered and said nothing as he continued to watch Louis get agitated when one piece wouldn't fit with a similar design.

Harry had brought a fist up to his mouth, trying to hold back his smile more as it's been nearly a minute now and Louis' still trying to find the piece to match.

"How in the hell do you consider this even remotely relaxing?" Louis scowled as he eyed the pile of pieces and crossed his arms. "I'm far from relaxed because this is mindfuckery when they match but don't fucking fit together."

Harry just found this oh so amusing and wanted to laugh he really did, but he didn't. "Louis put them into groups, that's the key instead of rummaging through the pile looking for a match." Harry started as he began flipping all the turnover pieces upwards. "Put the interior pieces into piles they match in color with and put the edge pieces all in one pile. It's that easy."

Louis sighed as he helped Harry with the tedious task of flipping the turnover pieces. "Is there some sort of secret you know about these things? I mean obviously, you have a strict routine and all," Louis huffed. "Which I'm not surprised since you enjoy sitting in the library after class to rewrite your notes. You're a very routinely kind of guy."

Harry just shook his head at that and said nothing more as he continued sorting the pieces into piles. Glancing at Louis from time to time as they worked on the edge pieces once they sorted everything into groups of colors. This was quite nice though, doing something Harry enjoys for once with a friend, which doesn't happen often. More often than he likes. He's tried numerous times to get Niall or Ed to do something other than parties every week. It's a nice change for once and Harry hopes he's not boring Louis to death already.

After getting the edge pieces finally together, they both worked on their own side of the puzzle. Harry had caught Louis gaze every so often, causing Harry to smile. Harry had to keep reminding himself that to not be so distracted by Louis. Now was not the time for that. Not when he's even halfway finished with their puzzle they're putting together.

Because Harry has a feeling Louis won't leave until it's complete.

Eventually them being alone didn't last too long because Louis' sisters barged in with the intent to join them.Totally invading their puzzle time, which Harry doesn't mind honestly as he'd liked to get to know Lottie and Fizzy better.

Oh well, they have a four hour car ride later anyway.

"I love a good puzzle," Lottie beamed as she brushed her blonde hair off her shoulder and started digging through the navy blue pile. "Why didn't you tell me you were doing one, Louis?"

Louis looked a bit annoyed by their sudden appearance and joining them on this puzzle. Which Harry understood, but it's not a big deal, he doesn't mind a whole lot.

"Also we're bored and we want to get to know Harry better." Fizzy also added as he helped herself as well.

"You could have knocked you know and maybe I didn't tell you what we were doing for a reason." Louis explained pointedly as he crossed his arms.

"It's fine, Lou. I don't care if they join us." Harry really didn't.

Both of the girls smiled and Louis flicked his gaze upwards, and Harry wondered why Louis seemed so bothered by this. But in a way, Harry understand somewhat as Gemma could be persistent and annoying at times especially when she was bored and wanted to intrude on things.

But still, it's not a big deal anyway.

"Oh come on Louis, you can't just hog Harry either, we want to get to know him," Lottie explained. "Especially since you've only brought him home twice."

Louis still didn't appear too excited about them being here as Lottie defended her case.

"We've gotten to know almost all your friends so it's only fair we get to know Harry too since last time you didn't even give us a chance other than at dinner four months ago," Fizzy pointed out "And even then we still knew next to nothing as you were quick to leave."

Félicité did have a valid point. Harry didn't talk either when he came for dinner last time, just listened to their stories of their days, so maybe actually getting to know the sisters doesn't sound all too bad now that he thinks more about it.

"Fine, you both can stay I guess." Louis gave in, sounding defeated as both of the girls smiled in delight.

During the course of the puzzle Harry had heard all about Louis' sister's lives. From their gossips about the latest scandal at school to telling Harry all about Louis' embarrassing moments growing up. In which involved Louis accidentally sending an inappropriate text to Jay that was meant for a girlfriend at the time. Not just that but also saying how Louis got caught smoking with Zayn when he was sixteen. As that's how she found out. Which Louis told them to shut it and to leave, but they obviously didn't listen. Leaving Louis to just shake his head and groan, clearly not liking them reminiscing about his past humiliations.

Which Harry sympathizes because he's had his fair share of embarrassing moments as well. Maybe nothing like an explicit text sent to his mum on accident or getting caught smoking for the first time. But Harry's been walked in on getting dressed before by Niall who showed up five minutes too early. Nothing like Louis' though.

Eventually the conversations turned towards the girl's love lives. Fizzy said that she's gotten a boyfriend now. Louis seemed a bit bothered by that, but Harry supposed it's his protectiveness kicking at the mere mention of his sister's hearts on the line. Especially when Harry recall just how protective Louis got with himself, Harry can't even imagine what Louis feels it comes to his sister's.

Then it was Lottie's turn to go on about her friend that she's now dating. As Harry recalled her telling everyone just how she had these mixed signals from the boy as he'd go off and flirt with another girl right after they'd spend the day together. It's almost too similar to Harry's situation even now that he thinks about it again.

Louis, of course mentions that he thinks they still should have stayed away from boys in the first place but they wave him off and start asking Harry questions about his own love life. Wanting to know if he was single, who is he dating and if he likes anyone.

Of course, Harry answered honestly, well for the most part he did. Harry had given them the same thing to Louis' sisters as he did to Louis, it's a secret that he'd like to keep. Which thankfully they didn't seem too disappointed about.

When it came time for Louis to have a cigarette break he told Harry he'd be back in fifteen minutes or so since he doesn't like to smoke around his sisters. So Harry was left with the girls which wasn't all that bad honestly, even if they stopped doing the puzzle long ago when they got to chit chatting away.

"You know since we're on the topic of love lives.., my brother sure does talk about you a lot. It's Harry this and Harry that all the time when he comes to visit," Fizzy pointed out after Louis was not in the room with them anymore. "I think you've got Louis wrapped around your finger."

Wait what?

That can't be possible. Not at all possible because Louis likes the other Harry, not him.

Maybe Fizzy was getting it wrong anyway and thought Louis meant him instead. It's an easily misconception... especially since they have the same damn name.

"I can see why though, you're quite nice. and he was right when he said you have a smile that lights up the room." Lottie added with a smile, and uh they have to be wrong, because this isn't making any sense at all.

Harry swallowed as he just sat there blinking, wondering what is even going on right now. Like did Louis' sisters really just say all that to Harry?

"I think Louis' going to ask you to be his boyfriend sooner rather than later honestly." Fizzy added and what?

Did Harry hear that correctly?

"Yeah, I think so too because he really likes you." Lottie chimed in and fuck, Harry's heart is going all erratic once again.

There's no way, absolutely positively no way Louis had meant him. Because Louis likes that boy in his class, not his best mate, Harry. No.

"Uh... I think.. you mean the Harry in his class. Because he's told me that's who he.. likes." Harry explained feeling a bit nervous now.

Fizzy gave Harry an odd look, "So the boy in his class has long curly hair and a has dimples when he smiles?"

Oh.

"Yeah because I remember Louis mentioning something about curls and dimples," Lottie agreed. "I think he meant you, Harry."

Harry suddenly felt heat inch up to his cheeks and started feel a bit overwhelmed. Because Louis can't possibly like him, right? He likes that guy from his class. That's what Louis told him when Harry walked in on him that one night. But what Louis' sisters just told him made everything unclear. Because he, himself has curly hair and a dimple that shows when he smiles. There's absolutely no way this other Harry had long curly hair and dimple too, because that would be absolutely weird.

Then again back at Louis' band gig Louis had continued endlessly about how perfect this boy was. Harry remembered Louis saying they were two totally different people and that the boy was a serious student. Intelligent and charming and possibly good natured. Thinking about all of that made Harry stomach churn now that he kept thinking about it more and more.

Louis wasn't talking about him... was he?

He certainly can't be the one Louis thinks he's falling in love with and wants to be in a serious relationship with. Louis' sisters have to be fucking around.. They just have to be.

"Does your secret crush happen to be Louis?" Lottie suddenly questioned and Harry's was taken back, not even ready to answer this question on top of the other things weighing heavily on his mind.

"Uhm." Was all Harry could get out before there was a knock at the door and Jay popped her head in to tell the girls to come help her in the kitchen. As Anne was finally leaving now and Harry was quick off his feet, just needing to get out of the room and far away from the questions as possible.

Saying his goodbyes to his mum and telling her he'd text as soon as he got back to uni safely.

As bad as it sounds Harry was thankful when Anne decided to leave because who knows... those girls could have figure Harry out right there on the spot. Which they had no fear in spilling about Louis' crush, so Harry knows they'd probably go off and tell Louis Harry likes him.

When Harry was back in Louis' room he was relieved to see the girls didn't protest their mum's help and he was finally alone. Clearly, Louis wasn't finished with his cigarette yet, which was fine.. It gave Harry some time to think about what just happened.

As he fiddled with the puzzle to make him feel better he couldn't help but wonder how true their words were.

Louis couldn't have possibly been talking about Harry this whole time while being secretive about it all, right?

Because if so then Louis thinks he's not good enough for Harry and thinks he some druggie that Harry doesn't want. Which is far from the truth, Harry doesn't give a care what Louis does in his free time. He cares about Louis and Louis is good enough, he's more than enough

Harry wants Louis.

It's just... what if they were just messing around to make something happen that isn't even a thing?

Like they like Harry enough to want Louis to date him. But then again they've only just got to sit down with Harry and share many things. So Harry's not sure about that honestly.

Harry's not sure about anything now!

Suddenly the bedroom door opened and it was Louis, tossing denim jacket onto the bed. Harry sat there quietly staring as Louis moved to his stand alone mirror, rearranging his fringe.

"Fucking finally they're gone," Louis started as he flicked his gaze towards Harry in the mirror. "As much as I love my sisters, I didn't appreciate the fact they were bugging you with stories."

Harry didn't know what to say to that, he really didn't. Not when his mind is on the fact that Louis is possibly falling in love with him.

"I think they purposely wanted to annoy me, really," Louis explained as he pulled off his beanie and continued messing with his hair. Pulling the beanie back on once he was satisfied before he turned around and his eyes were on Harry. "Anyway how about we finish that puzzle before we leave then?"

All Harry could do right now was nod because what can he say?

Your sisters just told me you're infatuated with me and I want to talk about that instead. Yeah, that's not happening, not right now.

Because for one Harry wanted to think more about whether or not Louis really does love him. Secondly, he feels like he needs to talk to either Niall or Gemma about this and see what they think. Probably Niall more than likely since he doesn't joke around every swing he gets, unlike Gemma. But then again he trusts his sister's opinions when she isn't a pest.

Ugh Harry should talk to both of them... maybe all three of them could meet up for lunch soon. That'd be nice to have not only his sisters input but his bestest mates input as well.

Yeah, that sounds like a plan to Harry. Hopefully, Niall doesn't run off and talk to Zayn about that and Gemma doesn't tell Anne either.

That will all have to wait though because Louis already back beside him and working on the puzzle.

What happens now that Harry knows?

The only thing Harry knows for sure is that it's possibly mutual between them and he may or may not be freaking the hell out.