Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

William started a chat.

William: Well, hello, aren't you extremely gorgeous. 5:56PM

Aaron: You too aha, what do you want of life? 5:58PM

William: Right about now, a quickie in the closest bathroom we can both reach, up for it? 5:59PM

Aaron: I know a place. Sending you the address? 6:00PM

William: Sure thing. 6:01PM

William: Thanks again. I spent a great time. 7:17PM

William ended the chat.

~°~

Jason started a chat.

Jason: Hey there beautiful. 8:02AM

William: Hello hello, are you as sweet in bedsheets as in messages? 10:35AM

Jason: Only if that's what you want. 10:41AM

William: Come and show me. 10:42AM

Jason: See you again next time. 11:56AM

Jason ended the conversation.

It wasn't that exceptional for Louis to be having two "dates" so close to one another, but it had been a long time, and he was sore absolutely everywhere now. Rubbing his back hoping quite hopelessly to ease the pain. Apparently, 28 wasn’t an age for quickie in public restroom anymore.

My mother told me I should go and get some therapy
I asked the doctor, "Can you find out what is wrong with me?"

Louis left the shower, and his skin was red now after all the time he spent under the boiling water probably trying to wash away his failure. See Louis was on therapy. He had been in jail for a few months for drug use and decided it wouldn't happen again.

Which was wise but instead of using drug again, Louis became addicted to sex, mind you, good sex. His therapist said it was better than drug and it was for sure, but Louis dreamed of being able to relax without sleeping with the whole town.

I don't know why I wanna be with every boy I meet
I can't control it, yeah, I know it's taking over me

Louis' phone vibrated in his room, and he went there to check his notifications. Louis sighed when he noticed it was from his dating app but after a while he still opened the app.

Landon started a conversation.

Landon: I'd love to use a cock in my ass right now. 8:16PM

Louis coughed, people weren’t generally so direct.

William: It would be a shame not to fill your wish. Where can I meet you? 8:17PM

Landon: Sending location right now gorgeous boy. 8:18PM
Landon: Good night! 8:56PM

Landon ended the conversation.

Louis always thought that everything would settle when he would finally find the only one. But it was a rare species apparently. Every person he met on that dating app was fine but certainly not the only one. They were good one night stand for sure, but it stopped at that, and Louis was tired at everyone trying to find him a lover that would finally stay.

He was searching too, mind you. But it wasn’t easy to find the love of his life and people were just enjoying his cock right now, so Louis was just going on with the vibe. His Mum kept going on about Destiny and soulmate, but it was just some deep shit for romantic people to Louis.

Even if he adored his mother and people thought they were alike, they were very different on their behaviour. Louis wasn’t a romantic at all but the one and only would come, they just needed to be patient.

I'm going crazy
Can't contain it
So tell me just what I should do?"

He was 28, not 56. And Louis was sure that it was everyone around him being dramatic. He wasn’t about to die alone. He was just a complicated lover. His mother said he was impossible to love. Louis didn’t agree but he needed someone who wouldn’t be boring to keep him entertained.

Essentially, Louis was a child. By moments, it was hard to get intertwined in bedsheets every day with a new stranger but to be alone at night in his own bed.

She said, "Hey, it's alright
Does it make you feel alive?

At the end of some days, Louis was sad and lacking a lover. But most of the time, Louis just enjoyed getting laid every day by handsome strangers who were all ready for a quickie and forgetting about him afterwards. His phone vibrated again, and Louis smiled, grabbing his phone.

Peter started a conversation.

Peter: Hey there! 1:23AM

William: Well, hello, what can I do for you? 1:24AM

Peter: I thought we could get to know each other a little bit better, those kinds of things. 1:24AM.

Louis burst out laughing, since all the years he’s been on this dating app, he heard and read a lot of weird pickup line, but this one was a classic and a bit boring. But Louis didn’t abandon, a good shag is a good shag.

William: Oh, but I have a lot to say darling, what about you? 1:25AM

Peter: Me too, my mother say I speak too much but the only one will listen to me, that’s when I will know he’s the one. 1:27AM

Louis sighed. It wasn’t rare per se that he received those kinds of messages about the one and only love but it wasn’t Louis’ thing.

William ended the conversation.

Louis never felt like a bitch and God knows he ended a lot of conversation maybe a bit abruptly.

Don't look back
Live your life
Even if it's only for tonight"

Louis finally turned off his phone and went to sleep. He had some work to do tomorrow. Tomorrow came too early to Louis’ taste, and he had to shower because he was stinky. He grabbed a tea, a toast and sat in front of his laptop almost regretting his life choice.

We got to live before we get older
Do what we like
We got nothing to lose

His therapist said that some addictions were saner than other, and Louis couldn’t agree more. So shagging strangers it was but lately, Louis had been a bit late with work, lacking inspiration. He had so many melodies and so little lyrics that could go with the melody.

When he had been asked for a song. He decided to be audacious and gave them a song about his story lately because he was having troubles writing about love when he stopped believing in love. Before, he was able to just be inspired by movies or people around him, but Louis realised he was turning bitter with age.

Shake off the weight of the world from your shoulders
Oh, we got nothing to prove

Life had been different lately and Louis was adapting but with great difficulty it seemed, and it wasn’t getting any easier.

Chapter Text

Been a lot of places
I've been all around the world

Washington’s airport was really crowded this morning. Not that Liam could actually compare to other mornings because it was his first journey to Washington D.C. But it seemed really packed to him. And as a traveling journalist, he saw a lot of airports. Liam yawned behind his hand and continued to wait patiently.

His job as a traveling journalist made him extremely patient, Liam always loved a good airport where he could watch people and imagine their lives. What else could a journalist do to keep his mind occupied when bored? Airports were probably the only place on Earth where it was socially acceptable to drink alcohol before 10 A.M or a normal place to sleep in weird positions.

Airports were a wonderful source of inspiration for Liam even if his articles weren’t really about the hours at which people ordered a dry martini in airports. Liam loved his job even when he was stuck in an ever-lasting queue to the luggage drop-off.

Seen a lot of faces
Never knowing where I was
On the horizon

Liam realised the queue didn’t move for the past ten minutes so he checked one last time his last article he wrote in Washington. It was a bit boring to Liam’s opinion. A paper about sports, not really Liam’s favourite thing but people back in England paid to know what was going on in the sport field in the US.

It was just a good opportunity to have a free travel to Washington. It was quite the nice capital in Liam’s opinion. Don’t mind him, as a journalist, he has a lot of them, thank you very much.

When he was younger, Liam had been quite the shy child, smart but discreet. You could forget he was there. He grew up confident and talented. A great journalist. Always catching a flight for God knows where and God knows how long but always coming back home with a smile on his face.

Well, I know, I know, I know, I know
The sun will be rising
Back home

Telling everyone around him what a great travel he just had but just how glad he was to be back home.

Liam’s phone lit up, his mother was calling and Liam picked up, smiling.

“Mom!” He exclaimed.

“My boy, are you at the airport?”

“Yes, I’m not sure I’ll be able to go home if we stay stuck like that at the luggage drop-off.” Liam joked and Karen laughed.

“We’ll see if you’re late, when are you supposed to land?”

“Around 10:15 A.M. I’ll let you know if it changes.” Liam assured her.

“Thanks sweetheart, see you later.”

“Love you all.”

Living out of cases
Packing up and taking off
Made a lot of changes

Finally or miraculously after Liam hung up, the queue started to move again, and he was able to drop his luggage before stopping at a coffee shop to order an espresso. The time difference was probably the hardest part of the job.

You leave your country it’s 4 in the afternoon. You have eight hours of flight. But when you land, it’s mid-day and you didn’t really have a proper day, but you’re supposed to function anyway because a proper day is waiting for you in your landing country. That was getting harder and harder every year.

Not because Liam was aging, mind you, he wasn’t that old but maybe because it was the one habit he hated the most and wasn’t getting accustomed to. He always managed to be productive even during days like that, but it was extremely tiring for him.

After Liam picked up his drink, he walked to his gate and waited the only hour left before they were due to take off thanks to the delay at the luggage drop-off. Liam was glad to be going back home, traveling was always nice, but Liam loved even more coming back where he belonged really every time.

But not forgetting who I was
On the horizon

Liam finished reading his article again and correcting some details he wasn’t happy about before he finally sent it to his boss an prayed it would be good enough and his boss wouldn’t notice how bad Liam is at pretending he loves sport.

I know, I know, I know, I know
The moon will be rising
Back home

His phone ringed in his pocket and it startled Liam a bit. He looked at the notification and swore.

John started a chat.

John: Is it appropriate to say you look sexy with your guitar? 3:34PM

James: Hi, hum, thanks? 3:35PM

John: Not used to compliments? 3:36PM

James: I’m leaving the States in fact. I forgot to turn the app off while I was working here. 3:38PM

John: Oh right, well the compliment still stands. You’re proper sexy. 3:39PM

John ended the conversation.

Liam had forgot about the app because it had been a while since he last received a match, but it was a pleasant feeling to feel appreciated. Liam tried very hard not to blush in the middle of the airport. He was an adult damn it and right now, he felt like a teenager with a crush. That was extremely embarrassing.

“Boarding Flight BA291 to London Heathrow. Now Boarding Flight BA291.” A voice announced in the speaker.

Liam smiled, grabbing his bag and walking to the gate with his papers and tickets in hand.

Don’t forget where you belong, home
Don’t forget where you belong, home

Boarding didn’t take long because the plane was rather empty. The flight was longer. But eight hours is easily passed with a meal and a big nap. In no time, they were landing in London and Liam was so excited to finally see his family and friends again after two weeks of being in Washington.

The luggage claim was thankfully quick, and Liam continued his way to the airport exit, he knew it by heart now. Soon, he was hugging his family.

“So glad to be home.” He whispered, hugging them.

If you ever feel alone, don’t
You are never on your own

Later that day, after catching up with his family, Liam was sitting at a table in a coffee shop, waiting for his friends to arrive. Zayn arrived soon after and Liam examined him carefully before hugging him briefly.

“Harry’s not here?” Liam asked, trying not to bite his tongue in the process.

“We’re still taking it slow.” Zayn answered, sitting in front of Liam who nodded. “Still not tired of same old London?”

“Never will be.” Liam promised. “It’s my home, I don’t want to be anywhere else but here, I travel but I will always come back home.” Zayn nodded and smiled.

Liam grew up in the Midlands but home was with his friends and his family so England would always feel like home for him. No matter how beautiful some countries can be, they will never be England and that’s enough to make Liam wants to go home every time he’s done working on an article.

His friends often make fun of him for being so loyal to England, but Liam went to so many places, he wouldn’t choose any of them. Home felt like a coffee on a rainy Tuesday evening in a crowded coffee shop with Zayn talking about American baseball.

But home felt lonely when Liam was coming back to his flat at night and it was so calm. Liam had dreamed of finding love for so long. It wasn’t fun anymore to wait for the one who would bring happiness and chatter to his flat. Liam opened his laptop and decided to start a new article it’s not like he had someone to take care of anyway. He could be productive instead.

Chapter Text

When Louis woke up with no sign of inspiration, he decided to call his best friend Niall for some help. Not that Niall would have inspiration for him, but Louis needed to go out for something else than a good shag and Niall was feeling a bit down lately.

He had broken up with his girlfriend of 4 years and he was sad. Louis had had a hard time finding his way back to Niall after jail. He wasn’t exactly proud of his journey, but it made him who he was. He only regretted that it hurt Niall in the process.

Niall agreed to meet him in a nearby restaurant, so Louis got dressed and left his flat not to be late. Some even said that jail pushed him to be a better version of himself. Because he proved everyone it was over, and it wouldn’t happen again. It didn’t stop people from saying he would always be a criminal, but Louis ignored them.

You tell me that you're sad and lost your way
You tell me that your tears are here to stay

When he arrived, Niall was already waiting for him. Louis pulled him in a gentle embrace seeing the red marks around Niall’s eyes.

“What do you want to order?” Niall asked while they were both sitting back in their booth. “Beer?”

“No, I can’t always drink beers. I have to change sometimes.” Louis said in a chuckle.

“What can I serve you?” The waiter asked.

“A beer.” Niall said but Louis wasn’t really paying attention because that man was insanely attractive. Niall kicked his knee under the table and Louis realised what was happening.

“Same. Thanks.” The waiter nodded and left with a weird glance at Louis which made Niall laugh loudly.

“How to appear like a fool? A book written by Louis Tomlinson.” He teased and Louis sulked quietly.

“That’s not funny mate, my chances to bring him home are like under 0%.”

“We’re in a room full of men, find another one.” Niall shrugged.

“How are you doing?” Louis asked suddenly as the waiter was coming back with their order and Louis made a point not looking at him.

“I don’t really know. Sad, angry, hurt, hermit-like.”

“Well, I’m glad you decided I was cute enough to deserve a beer date.” Niall laughed loudly at Louis’ remark.

But I know you were only hiding
And I just want to see ya

“I’ll always have time for your cute face.” Niall assured. “By moment, I just need some time to be ready.”

“And I understand it completely, your pain, your rhythm mate. I’ll follow.”

“I’m glad to have you by my side. But like, could we talk about something else?”

“Sure, have you seen the last match?”

You tell me that you're hurt and you're in pain
And I can see your head is held in shame

Liam didn’t know if it was a great idea to have dinner with his friends. Not that he didn’t like them, he adored Zayn and Harry, but they were having some troubles together lately and Liam feared that it could be a walk on eggshells dinner and Liam hated that.

Liam met Zayn and Harry in high school, they were all in the football team which Liam hated for some reason. But when they discovered that they were all gay, they grew very close and stayed friends. Or well Liam stayed friends because Zayn and Harry developed more than friendship. During the summer before university started, they begin to date, and they never stopped.

They never fought, they were a very strangely compatible duo, and their happiness made Liam jealous more than once, how often had he wished of meeting someone he’d love as much as his friends loved each other.

But lately and Liam still ignored why, Zayn and Harry were having troubles talking with each other. Liam had thought they’d break up, but they didn’t, they were holding on. Seeing a couple therapist and all but it wasn’t easy for them. Although, it seemed to be on the good way.

But I just want to see you smile again
See you smile again

Liam didn’t always know how to behave with them he was afraid of misbehaving and breaking the new things they were creating together. And no matter how many times Zayn and Harry would tell him it was fine, Liam couldn’t take that fear away. He had always known them like that he didn’t want to mess up.

Liam finally arrived in front of the restaurant, it was a new place, they usually never went so far in the city. They had their habits but the couple therapist suggested breaking their habits so here they were eating in a new neighbourhood. Liam entered and was met by the smell of alcohol. He saw Zayn waving at him, and he went to their table, hugging Zayn and Harry briefly before sitting in front of them.

“How are you doing?” Liam asked as a habit. Zayn and Harry looked at each other with a smile before turning to Liam and answering together.

“Great.”

“I’m so glad to hear about it.”

When the night is coming down on you
We will find a way through the dark

“We’re getting married.” Zayn announced, showing Harry’s hand with a silver ring on it. Liam gasped.

“Oh my god. I didn’t expect it.”

“After thousands of meetings with our therapist, we realised the main problem, and we solved it.” Harry added, smiling fondly.

“It’s as easy as marrying to solve problems?”

“It’s the long story short.” Zayn interrupted. “We aren’t gonna tell you the long boring story. We just want to celebrate the end of our therapy tonight and our future wedding.”

“Well, congratulations guys. I’m so happy for you.” Liam said, smiling happily.

“Are you crying?”

“No.”

I wish that I could take you to the start
I'd never let you fall and break your heart

Liam startled when his phone rang. His dating app was proposing him a match close by. Liam showed William to his friends.

“We don’t see his face.” Zayn commented. “Maybe he’s ugly.”

“It’s not that important!” Harry scolded him. “It’s been a long time you didn’t see anyone Li.” Harry added with a concerned face. “Now you can stop worrying for us and try to see if that guy is worth your love.”

“You think?” Both Harry and Zay nodded fervently.

So, Liam obeyed and liked the profile. The screen displayed “It’s a match!”. Liam smiled and typed a messaged.

And you don't need, you don't need to run
And you will see it's easy to be loved
I know you wanna be loved

Louis was closing the door of the taxi and making sure Niall would get home safe when his phone rang again. Louis considered not looking at it because he wasn’t up for a quickie, but curiosity got the cat, and he looked it up.

James started a conversation.

James: That’s such a great guitar you’re holding! 9:42PM

Louis laughed out loud, he wasn’t expecting that. He remembered James because they had a very similar picture. The man didn’t sound like he wanted a quickie, but they could have a good laugh.

William: I wanted to say that you looked good but now I’m offended so your guitar isn’t bad either… 9:44PM

James: Thank you. 9:45PM

And Louis was left dumbfounded, not knowing what to answer to that. It was a first in Louis’ long history of dating and he was as impressed as he was offended by that behaviour.

When the night is coming down on you
We will find a way through the dark

Chapter Text

William started a conversation.

William: I thought it was important to remind you that I am still sulking. 10:11AM

James: Alright, the guitar is the greatest of the photo but you’re the cuter, is it any better? 10:17AM

William: Took you long enough to think about it… 10:18AM

James: Cause I’m working, not everyone seems to be available 24/7 10:21AM

William: What do you do? 10:21AM

James: I’m a journalist. And you mister always free to chat? 10:22AM

William: I work in the musical field, I write songs for famous singers, and I create melody hence the guitar. And I work from home, so I seem free because I choose when I work. 10:24AM

James: You must be talented with that guitar then… 10:27AM

William: Not only the guitar! 10:28AM

James: Stop that, I’m at work. 10:29AM

James ended the conversation.

Louis wasn’t exactly sulking, okay well maybe he was but he really liked talking with James. James was such an interesting man. He wasn’t running after Louis which was just only a little bit insulting to Louis. He always knew how to push Louis’ buttons to make him mad and Louis loved that. A good challenge.

I know you want
Know you want to take it slow

But Louis liked as much as he disliked that James never gave in. As if he wasn’t interested in Louis but he must have been at some point if they matched. But James was a miracle because since they were talking for about three days. Louis had found inspiration again and he was extremely happy about it.

James started a conversation.

James: Did you do any famous song I might listen to? 5:02PM

William: I don’t even know what kind of music you listen to. 5:05PM

James: Ask me? 5:06PM

William: What kind of music do you listen to? 5:07PM

James: A bit of everything. Does that mean that if I look at credits and see a stranger named William, I’ll know you made a song? 5:09PM

William: I use another name for my work, sorry to disappoint. 5:10PM

James: I am in fact disappointed… 5:11PM

William: Well, if you listen to the radio. You’ve heard my last big hit at least, lucky you [smirk] 5:12PM

James: Still disappointed 5:15 PM

James ended the conversation.

Liam wasn’t utterly disappointed, but Liam was extremely curious about William. It was hard to spy on people with that dating app because having only the first name made it impossible to search the other on Internet, did you happen to know how many Williams live in London?

Liam didn’t but he didn’t want to check them one by one, and William doesn’t really show his face on his picture so it would be impossible to find him. And if people were like Liam using a fake name, it was even more complicated. Maybe Liam could have more chance with the radio.

But think about all the places we could go
If you give in tonight

Liam turned the radio on. Alive. Liam loved that song that was released a week ago, he didn’t recognise himself in the lyrics, but the melody was great, and the lyrics were well thought. Liam opened his laptop to check the credits. So, William was someone working in the shadow. Liam gasped reading the four names in the credits: “Louis Tomlinson, Julian Bunetta, John Ryan, Jamie Scott.”

If each song had so many people, Liam could never find William. After approximately 1 minutes and 38 seconds, Liam gave in and danced on the end of Alive.

William started a conversation.

William: Important question. Do you like sports? 4:23AM

James: Is this some kind of eliminatory question? Like you’re going to block me if I say no? 6:30AM

William: You wake up too early for me mate. 10:04AM
William: No, I won’t block you for that, but the answer will change everything between us. 10:04AM

James: And you go to bed too late for me bro. 10:05AM
James: I love a good run early in the morning, or I go to the gym after work, depends on my mood really. 10:06AM

William: And football? 10:07AM

James: I used to do football in high school. 10:07AM

William: Great! 10:08AM

James: I hated it. 10:09AM

William: FML. 10:10AM

James: What is it you say? Ah yes, sorry to disappoint. 10:11AM

William ended the conversation.

Louis was enjoying his chats with James more than he should, James was another random guy, but Louis was feeling a weird pull towards him. Not like true love, the one and only but he was really having a great time whenever he was discussing with James.

Even when James was being a little shit like this morning. But Louis could forgive him, his picture didn’t show much but Louis was sure he was stunning enough to be forgiven.

Let’s take a ride
Out in the cold air

It wasn’t even about winning James’ affection Louis was just genuinely happy to discuss like James was more of a friend than a real love interest. Maybe Louis felt like that because James was always pushing him away, but Louis wasn’t mad. He loved their relationship it would be stupid to ruin that bond that developed quickly for some meaningless pleasure time.

James started a conversation.

James: Are you still sulking at me? 7:56PM
James: Light of my life… 7:56PM

William: Stop that shit or I’ll get mad. 7:59PM

James: There goes the normal William. 8:00PM
James: I missed you bro. 8:00PM

William: I have contradictory feelings with you calling me bro right now. 8:01PM

James: Ah, sorry, dude. Better? 8:02PM.

William: I think so, but I have an appointment tonight, so I have to go, see you later dude. 8:03PM

James: Bye. 8:03PM

James ended the conversation.

And so, very unsurprisingly, Zayn and Harry had been rights all along and William was a great match. Liam was having so much fun with him. He didn’t expect their relationship to grow so quickly or to be extremely platonic, but Liam liked things like they were. Their bond was more authentic like that.

I know the way
Why don’t you go there
With me

Maybe they could become great friends with time, Liam easily saw himself having beer date with Zayn, Harry and William in the future. It would be great. Maybe he didn’t find the love of his life, but he found a great friend and that was enough for him. Love could always come later.

Chapter Text

It began normally. Or well, as normally as a stag do who’s not a really stag do can begin. Liam was pretty sure he was already too drunk to remember anything tomorrow. It was Harry’s fault really, he wanted to party, and Zayn complied, saying they could go to a bar and pretend they were having their stag do which is not really the case.

Then, everyone was congratulating them and offering new drinks to them, and Liam was way too drunk to walk properly, he was sure. He didn’t even try because he would make a fool of himself in front of a crowd of strangers. Zayn and Harry were really involved in a heated session of kissing each other and Liam was trying to look at everything but them.

At least the room wasn’t spinning, Liam thought as he glanced at Zayn and Harry trying to swallow one another that he should really stop listening to those two dumbasses and their bad ideas. Now Liam felt alone, and he wondered if people around them thought at some point maybe they were a couple all together, he shivered, and his attention was drawn by a black spot entering the bar.

Little black pants just walked into the room
Makin heads turn can't stop looking at you

Liam indeed spotted a very handsome man entering the bar, wearing the tightest pair of pants one could be wearing. People turned around to look at the man who was holding another man who seemed as drunk as Liam against his side. He walked to the barman, moving carefully with his friend held against his side firmly.

It wasn’t like sexy to take care of your drunk friend, but that man looked positively handsome even while doing something so casual and random. Liam couldn’t get his eyes off the pretty stranger. Little black pants put his friend on a stool, asked for a big glass of water and forced his friend to drink it all. He spoke to the barman who gestured, and he disappeared in another room with his friend and the barman.

Liam frowned at some point when his brain reminded him that this man could totally be his boyfriend and not just his friend. Well, Liam really hoped they were just friends because little black pants was extremely cute and he’d like to get to know the man better.

Liam almost wanted to cry because he lost the beautiful strangers in the beautiful black pants, but he came back in the room, alone. He scanned the room and their eyes met, making Liam full of energy again, drunkenness forgotten.

Little black pants what’s your favourite song
Little black pants I won't do ya no harm

Little black pants raised an eyebrow which Liam took as a question, and he gestured to him to come and little black pants did come closer almost moving his hips according to the beat of the music or it was just Liam’s imagination until he was in front of Liam, not raising his eyebrow anymore but smirking.

“Are you inviting me?” He asked.

“I sure am.” Liam answered without slurring. “Come on, take a seat little black pants.” The stranger laughed.

“Louis.”

“Liam.” He added, extending his hand and Louis shook it with a smile. “Would you like anything to drink?” Liam proposed finally.

“Oh no, thank you. I think I already drank enough at our first two bars. I’d love to dance, up for it, tall blue jean?” Louis proposed and Liam laughed at that comment.

“I hope I can still spin with all the alcohol I have in my system.”

“I sure hope you’re not a man to disappoint.” Liam shook his head firmly, making Louis laugh and they went to the small dancefloor of the bar.

It’s not right, it’s not right, it’s not right, you know
Little black pants did you come here alone

They danced for an hour, a beautifully but still way too short hour to Liam’s opinion. Little black pants, erm Louis was such a wonderful man, an opportunity that you only meet once in life, and Liam was still deep in the alcohol fog so maybe he was being weird, but Louis didn’t seem to mind, glued as he was to Liam’s side with his seductive smile.

I wanna see the way you move for me baby
I wanna see the way you move for me

After another song ended, Louis took them out of the dancefloor and back next to the bar, gesturing to the barman and putting a glass of water in Liam’s hand.

“I don’t want your friends to think I abused a drunk man.” Louis joked drinking a glass of water as well.

“I’m not drunk anymore.” Liam tried to protest but it only made Louis laugh.

“Drink that water if you want us to go back to dancing.”

“I’m not sure I want us to dance we could do something else.”

“We’ve known each other for barely an hour, and you already want me in your bed.” Louis laughed again. But Liam shook his head.

“Certainly not in my bed.” Liam denied, leaving Louis alone.

Little black pants who you doing it for
Little black pants I can't take any more

It’s not that Louis wasn’t used to someone telling him no. But that never really happened before, apart from James but it was different on a dating app. And Louis was a bit hurt in his ego. Louis realised earlier in the day that he didn’t sleep with anyone since he began talking with James so he went out with Niall to see if he would pull anyone.

And now, here he was, standing alone next to the bar, watching Liam who went back to the dancefloor dancing alone like his life depended on it after he rejected Louis. Louis felt hurt. And at the same time, it’s not like Louis couldn’t find anyone, his DMs on the app were full of people but Louis didn’t feel like it.

What exactly had James done to him, that was a mystery, Niall made fun of him for that, three hours ago when he wasn’t insanely drunk and sleeping in the backroom of the bar. But standing there, rejected and alone. Louis felt good. And that was probably the weirdest thing he ever thought.

I wanna see the way you move for me baby
I wanna see the way you move for me

Liam woke up with a terrible pounding inside his brain. He opened his eyes and noticed the closed curtains. What kind of drunk brain would think of closing the curtains to avoid the light of the day? Liam never did before. He remembered being woken up by the rising sun at every hungover he had because he was like that. Not the smartest drunk. Liam sat on his bed, suddenly confused. Trying to remember their evening and their fake stag do.

They drank a lot, Zayn and Harry licking each other’s mouth, ew. Little black pants, nice ass. Louis, Liam remembered his name which was a good start. Liam tried to remember everything, and he remembered almost everything apart how he got home. Liam turned his head to find aspirin and a glass of water on his bedside table.

It couldn’t be Liam’s drunk version who thought of that and there was a paper under the glass. Liam grabbed the piece of paper and read it.

“Please, don’t run into the door next time. It had been a pain to bring you home. Louis.”

Liam blushed, utterly embarrassed, he touched his forehead and sure enough, there was a pain that wasn’t due to the alcohol. Liam turned the paper to find a number, and he blushed some more but not because of his shame this time. Maybe it was fate that he ran into that door yesterday. Liam wrote the number in his phone and sent a message to Louis.

Liam: Thank you for bringing me home after I made a fool of myself. 1:49PM

Louis: It was a great spectacle to watch. 1:50PM

Liam: I hate you. 1:50PM

Louis: I hope you’re feeling better. 1:51PM.

Liam checked his other notifications to see William had sent a thousand messages. He stood up to take a shower, he’d give it a look after he’d made sure he stunk less of whisky.

Chapter Text

William started a conversation.

William: Jamesssss, are you up? 3:26AM
William: I’m bored I want your company. 3:26AM
William: Where are you light of my life? 3:27AM

William: I dropped all my friends at their houses, now I am back at mine, all alone and still bored, you still not up? 4:42AM

William: You always wake up so early, why not today?? 5:11AM
William: Life is so boring without you, where are you?????? 5:12AM

William: Night is long when you’re not sleeping, hate it. 5:46AM

William: I am praying that you’re like a sport freak and you’ll wake up at 6:30 like during the week to go running even if it’s freaking weekend. 6:01AM

William: WAKE UP JAMES!!!! 6:31AM
William: I’m losing hope 6:33AM

William: That’s it, I lost hope, I’m disappointed in you. 7:08AM

Louis lost hope at seven in the morning, or maybe James was ignoring him on purpose because Louis was being needy and clingy. Bad idea to text people you’re slowly solidifying your bond with when you’re drunk. Louis tried to hit himself with his pillow, but it didn’t work that much.

He was about to try to suffocate himself with said pillow when he recalled that time when Niall called him dramatic for not being to handle the wait when he was having insomnia, so Louis put the pillow down and sighed loudly but nobody heard, he was painfully alone. He’d like it if James was there with him, keeping him entertained.

I want you here with me
Like how I pictured it
So I don’t have to keep imagining

Louis closed his eyes, the image was blurry because with barely a side profile, he didn’t know much of James’ face finally, but he laid in his bed, hoping he’d have James with him, and they could talk of silly things and make jokes. Louis would love that.

James: Can one have a hungover in peace or what? 2:12PM
James: Besides, you seemed as hungover as me, one drunk man needs a good nap, William. 2:12PM.

William: I was pretty much hungover thank you very much, that didn’t mean I found sleep easily 2:13PM

James: What did you want? 2:15PM

William: Someone to pass my night laughing and joking with but I fear it’s over now. 2:16PM

James: Alright, next time, send me a message at a decent hour saying you’ll need me, and I’ll get prepared, does it sound good? 2:17PM

William: You’re actually so cute it’s ridiculous. 2:17PM
William: Thanks 2:18PM

What were the odds? They were very low in Liam’s opinion. But they still managed to get drunk the same night. But now Liam knew that William was adorably needy when he was drunk and he wish they could get drunk together one day to experience that in person. Liam wasn’t utopic, he knew it would happen. He would make sure it happened. Be the change you want to see in your life or whatever it is.

Come on jump out at me
Come on bring everything
Is it too much to ask for something great

Liam smiled as he was trying to cook himself some fried eggs, an easy meal after a painful hungover while replying to William. Liam was amazed at how easy it was to talk to William and always have a good time with him.

James: Did you think how cool it could be to drink together? 2:21PM

William: I did think about it. 2:22PM
William: It’s not that I don’t want it, because I really want to. But I feel so good with you, and I want to enjoy it as it is for now. 2:23PM

James: You’re right, as long as it works, why would we change it? 2:24PM
James: I wanted you to know that I always have a great time discussing with you, you seemed like a great person at first and I was right. 2:25PM

William: It seemed more like a compliment directed to yourself than directed to me… 2:25PM

James: Both, I promise. 2:26PM
James: How much did you sleep after your hungover? 2:26PM

William: Not much? 2:28PM
William: I tried I swear but even with all the alcohol, I felt electrified, and I couldn’t sleep. 2:29PM

James: I don’t understand how you could feel electrified after a lot of alcohol, I always feel so sleepy when I am drunk. I’m slurring and walking weirdly each time. I’m such a mess. 2:31PM

William: Must be a great spectacle. 2:31PM

Liam shivered at William’s message, echoing too much Louis’ note. Different feelings mixed in his brain, making him confused. But now wasn’t the moment to think about Louis. Liam needed to stay concentrated on William and that simple thought made him feel warmer.

I want you here with me
Like how I pictured it
Is it too much to ask for something great

Honestly, Liam wanted to slap himself in the face because he knew he sounded ridiculously lovey dovey when he was speaking like when Harry and Zayn talked about each other. Those two had always been disgustingly in love. But that was ridiculous, Liam wasn’t in love with William. And he wasn’t getting engaged with him either. It wasn’t something that could be compared.

James: A friend told me it was, and I don’t want to know all the embarrassing details. 2:34PM

William: Don’t worry too much about that, everyone is embarrassing when drunk. It’s human. I’m sure you’re cute. 2:35PM

James: It doesn’t mean I want to imagine the things I did, if my brain forgot, there’s a reason. 2:36PM

William: Your brain is thinking too much for a poisoned brain, give it a break damn. 2:37PM

James: I wish I could, I am late on my paper at work so I’m waiting for the aspirin to work, and I’ll go finish that work. 2:39PM

William: Good luck? 2:40PM

James: Do me a favour? 2:41PM

William: Sure. 2:41PM

James: Go take a nap to rest your poisoned brain, yeah? 2:42PM

William: Only because you asked nicely! (And because you’re cute) 2:43PM

Louis often asked himself why he was so conceding when it came to James. Louis didn’t want to think about the complicated answer, so he was trying to persuade himself it was because James had a wonderful side profile and was definitely cute. Nothing else.

And if he went to bed just because James asked him, it’s just out of pure friendship, mind you. And also probably because Louis was tired as fuck after a night full of insomnia but if Louis finally managed to sleep thinking about James while drifting away, it didn’t mean anything really.

You’re all I want
So much it's hurting

Chapter Text

Niall sat there, staring at him in shock, as if he didn’t believe him but it seemed like there was a hint of pride on his face.

“Sober for a month.” Niall repeated, his smile only growing. “I’m so proud.”

“I don’t know if I would call it sober.” Louis intervened.

“A sane addiction is still an addiction, so you’re sober and I’m glad.” Niall said. “So, if I dragged you to a club, you wouldn’t pull anyone.”

“No.” Louis said sternly.

Niall smiled, he got up, paid for their meal and dragged Louis outside, they walked to the nearest club, making Louis laugh. Niall was healing a lot lately and Louis was extremely happy about it. They entered the club quickly. It was early so there wasn’t a lot of people waiting already.

At the same time as Niall seemed to be healing, Louis was healing too, getting rid of that bad habit of sleeping everywhere he could. Both of them were happier now than they were even a week ago and Louis felt like anyone could see it.

But as they were making their way to the bar. Louis recognised a familiar face sitting at the bar, he chuckled and walked to him quietly. He arrived behind him and cleared his throat.

“Already drunk Liam?” Louis asked with a smirk and Liam turned around without sign of weakening this time.

“It’s my first drink, I’ll let you know.” Liam informed him with what was meant to be a hard glance probably, but it softened soon enough. “Glad to see you.”

“Same.”

“Do you want to sit with us and have shots?” Harry proposed because Harry was that kind of people. Louis and Niall nodded, and Louis sat next to Liam with his usual smirk making Liam’s inside squirm.

You and me and all our friends
I don’t care how much we spend

Liam finished his drink as the barman was pouring them shots of tequila. The five of them took theirs, they cheered and downed their shot quickly. Quickly, they had another round of shots and then another. Liam’s throat was burning but he felt electrified, and he finally understood what William meant last time they were chatting.

“Want to dance?” Louis proposed, looking at Liam deeply and Liam nodded, following Louis to the giant dancefloor compared to the last time.

Baby this is what the night is for
I know nothing's making sense

Liam wanted to laugh when the song turned sensual as soon as they arrived on the dancefloor but neither of them seemed to change their mind and they began to dance really close, and they didn’t know it, but it was hard for both of them to stay calm when they were so attracted to each other’s body.

Acting on instinct, Louis tried to bring Liam even closer without even realising it, but Liam took a step back without stopping their dance. Louis stopped dancing, frowning and looking at Liam.

“Am I that ugly?” Louis asked like a petulant child, and it made Liam laugh, reminding him of William’s behaviour by time. Liam smiled fondly and caressed Louis’ cheek but staying a feet or two away from Louis’ body.

“No, you’re stunning but I think my head and my heart already belong somewhere else and it wouldn’t be fair on you.” Liam explained taking Louis’ hand in his to make him spin, encouraging him to dance again.

“You’re ridiculously respectable Liam.”

“Thanks.”

For tonight let’s just pretend
I don’t wanna stop so give me more

They continued to dance for a while but thankfully, the songs became less sensual and after a while which considered of 3 songs really. Louis stopped dancing, went on tip toe and whispered.

“Let’s get out of here without telling anyone.” Liam frowned while looking at Louis as if trying to see if he was being trapped but he finally accepted.

But as they were ready to leave the dancefloor. Alive began to play and Liam turned around.

“Louis, just this one please, I love it.”

“Me too.” Louis admitted with a weird smile. It seemed like a smirk but there was a glint to it that Liam didn’t know yet.

They were dancing together when Harry, Zayn and Niall arrived on the dancefloor. They escaped quickly, deciding it was time to leave. The fresh air hit Liam’s face once they were outside.

“My mother told me I should go and get some therapy.” Louis began to sing once they were outside making Liam laugh.

“I asked the doctor can you find out what is wrong with me?” Liam continued, humming the melody alongside.

Midnight Memories ooohhhh
Baby you and me
Stumblin' in the street
Singing, singing, singing, singing

~°~

Still singing the song, they walked to the nearest fast food to have a late-night meal. They ordered burger and fries and waited patiently at their table to be served. Soon enough, the food arrived and they began to eat.

“How long have you known Harry and Zayn?” Louis asked as he was eating his fries.

“High school, we were all on the football team. We became friends because we were all gays.” Liam admitted, hoping he didn’t blush while saying it.

“You love football?” Louis asked, clearly surprised.

“No, I hated every second of my years in the football team, I only stayed because I heard the rugby team was worse and Harry and Zayn were with me.” Liam explained, biting into his burger and appreciating the warmth of it. “And you, when did you meet Niall?”

“Pretty sure it was when we were around 3 or 4 at school. We were often separated in classes, but nothing could really separate us.”

They continued to eat their meal in comfortable silence and before they could leave, a man came to them playing with his fingers.

“Hey, sorry to disturb you but would you want to play basketball with us? We lack people but we came here specially to play.” Liam was ready to deny because he wanted to stay alone with Louis when Louis answered.

“Sure, mate, be there in no time.”

“Thanks mate.”

“What kind of idea is that, Louis?” Liam asked once the man left.

“It’s going to be a memorable night, and we will make the most of it my friend. Go on.” Louis encouraged him. Liam nodded finally, there was many definitions of the word memorable after all. It was selfish to want to keep Louis all for himself when Liam was probably in love with William.

Midnight Memories ooohhhh
Anywhere we go
Never saying no just
Do it, do it, do it, do it

It was a terrible idea really, but Liam was a people pleaser Zayn often said and maybe it could be fun. Even if he knew rationally that he was shitty at any sport involving a ball, it could be worth a try, and it would always be fun with Louis.

Chapter Text

As Liam was waking up, he was thinking about what a bad idea it was to have a second hungover barely two weeks after the last one and what a bad idea it was to play basketball drunk, Liam felt sore everywhere, and he was pretty sure he had a broken bone somewhere. He groaned and decided a hot shower could definitely help.

Liam tried to move but he was startled by another body on top of his. There weren’t many possibilities. Said body who was very calm which scared Liam even more.

“Louis?” Liam called, unsure.

“Hummm?” The body finally answered.

“Could you please move your ass so I could get up?”

“Moody as fuck.” Louis muttered, rolling to the other side of the bed and Liam didn’t know if he was supposed to laugh or pinch himself. It felt a bit surreal. “Stop making that fish face. We didn’t fuck. Seems like I’m not your genre.”

“Don’t be dramatic Louis.” Liam got up and went to the bathroom, taking his phones out his pockets to check his messages.

James started a conversation.

James: Good morning. Sorry, I haven’t been around lately, I had a crazy night out. 11:26AM

William: Hey, glad to hear from you and glad to know you had a good night, I hope you’re not feeling too much like shit because I drank too much, and I feel like shit. 11:27AM.

James: Are we connected? How is it that we always end up going out the same evenings? 11:28AM

William: There’s only one weekend per week, it’s quite logical. 11:29AM

James: I need a proper shower, talk to you later baby. 11:30AM

William: Later. 11:30AM

William ended the conversation.

Liam put his phone away and he took a long shower to begin the day as easily as possible and to ease the soreness he felt in his whole body. Liam never felt so old than right now. He thought of William, of the mistake which wasn’t a mistake really, Liam knew what he was doing but he was afraid that William would push him away which he didn’t, he accepted it, and Liam was happy.

My hands, your hands
Tied up like two ships

It wasn’t exactly what Liam had meant to say but it was a good start. A gentle start to maybe more but later, way later. Liam finally left the bathroom only to notice that Louis was nowhere to be found. Liam grabbed his phone again but there was no message of Louis. He frowned, sending a message to Louis.

Liam: Are you okay? You didn’t need to leave that quickly. 12:17AM

Louis: I’m fine, I just forgot my sister needed my help for something, thanks again for letting me stay. 12:21AM

Liam: No problem. 12:22AM

Liam got dressed, ate something and called Zayn and Harry. The bell rang 20 minutes later, and Liam opened the door, Harry checked him with a raised eyebrow that Liam knew too well and quite hated.

“Are you okay?” Zayn asked. Always in sync with his fiancé. Liam laughed and walked them to the living room.

“I am, did I worry you by calling you and not saying anything?”

“No, Zayn was worried that you stayed alone with Louis last night. He was already imagining the two of you being sold as slaves in other countries.” Harry explained in a very dramatic tone and in another life, Harry and Louis were probably taking the same drama lessons at university.

“Aren’t we able to defend ourselves?”

“You were a bit too interested in each other to pay attention to the rest of the world.” Zayn interrupted.

“Rude, I’m not interested in Louis.” Liam denied, crossing his arms.

“Well, your body is then.” Harry added and Zayn nodded. How he hated when they were doing that. Being in sync sucked.

“In fact, I called you there to tell you about my feelings and they’re not for Louis so I’m a bit concerned now.”

“Oh, but please, do tell us.” Zayn encouraged suddenly, grinning like a devil. “You have a man?”

“Not yet.”

I’d do anything to save it
Why is it so hard to say it

“What does it mean ‘not yet’?” Zayn asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Will you stop that for a second and let him talk?” Harry asked, gently slapping his fiancé’ arm and Zayn seemed to calm down.

My heart, your heart
Sit tight like book ends

“I met someone on my dating app, his name is William, he’s like super sweet and we get along so well.” Liam told them. “At first, I was pushing him away a bit because I didn’t want things to go so fast and we were developing a great friendship, but a month had passed and the more I think about it, the more I think I’m in love.”

Pages between us
Written with no end

“Well, that’s great for you, what we think here is not that important but if it goes well, I’m so glad for you.” Harry said fondly, smiling big.

“What does he look like?” Zayn suddenly asked and Liam grimaced.

“I don’t know, he has the same kind of picture than me, a cap hides his face but it’s not the most important part.” Liam protested.

“Liam’s right.” Harry interjected. “How someone’s look not the most important thing about them. If when he discovers William’s appearance, he’s not pleased, too bad.” Zayn only nodded. “Love is made of balance, look at you.” Zayn was about to be smile even bigger but was cut by Harry’s next sentence. “If you weren’t good looking, you’d have nothing for yourself darling.”

“I resent that Styles.” Zayn pouted and Harry burst out laughing.

So many words we’re not saying
Don’t want to wait till it’s gone
You make me strong

“But I hope for you that he’s hot.” Zayn added making the three of them laugh. “I mean, it’s amazing to wake up every day next to a model who’s in fact working in a bakery.”

“Aww love, aren’t you the sweetest?” Harry intervened, leaning in to kiss Zayn who didn’t seem to resent it.

“Ew, stop that. I’m tired of seeing you two kissing.” Both of them laughed and separated themselves. “Don’t you think it’s too early? I’ve known William for a bit more than a month.”

“I’ll tell you something. It’s not about the time it’s about the chemistry.” Zayn said. “A great example of that is Louis and you, you two guys are such good friends that it’s hard to believe you actually only met twice, you’re thick as thieves and you met twice, and drunk every time. You have a great chemistry, if it’s the same with William, just go for it.”

Liam got up and went to hug Zayn and Harry, thankful for having such amazing friends by his side. Always or almost providing great advices and helping him figuring out what to do or not of his life.

I’m sorry if I say I need ya
But I don’t care I’m not scared of love

“Now.” Harry spoke, after a long hug. “There’s someone you should probably talk to about this and it’s William. Time to go to the next level of your relationship but make sure to tell him we’ll break his legs if he ever makes you cry.”

“I won’t tell him that, are you crazy?”

“My fiancé is such a wonderful friend.” Zayn commented, in awe.

“You’re absolutely disgusting.” Liam complained, leaving the room.

Cause when I’m not with you I’m weaker
Is that so wrong, is it so wrong
That you make me strong

Liam was about to open the dating app when his phone rang with an incoming call from Louis. Liam’s panic rose because Louis told him he hated calls and preferred messages.

“Louis?” Liam almost screamed.

“Need help…” Louis said weakly, he was having troubles talking coherently and Liam was panicking already and running to the door.

Chapter Text

Written in these walls are the stories that I can’t explain
I leave my heart open, but it stays right here empty for days

“Louis, where are you?” Liam screamed again in the phone.

“Mine.” Louis barely whispered, he sounded weak, and Liam sprung to action, grabbing a coat and his keys before slamming the door behind him. Zayn and Harry knew what to do.

“What’s going on?” Liam asked, trying to sound calm while leaving his house.

“Relapsed…”

“Relapsed? About what?”

“Crime.” Louis added but he seemed weird, and Liam didn’t understand anything.

“I’ll be there quickly Louis, stay with me.” Liam begged.

And I’ll be gone, gone tonight
The ground beneath my feet is open wide

“Wait, Louis, what’s your address?” Liam asked suddenly, realising he didn’t know where he was supposed to go.

“Niall.” Louis only replied, his voice seemed even weaker.

“Hold on, I’ll call Niall. I’ll be there shortly.” Liam dialled Niall. “Hey mate, can I have Louis’ address?”

“Sure.” Niall answered. “It’s complicated with all the codes, so I’ll send it to you by messages, why do you need it?”

“I didn’t understand everything, but Louis called me, asking for help, he said something about relapsing and criminal.” Liam explained, checking the address and starting his car.

“Oh no.”

“What is it?”

“He’s a former drug addict.” Niall explained and Liam felt his heart stopping.

The way that I been holding on too tight
With nothing in between

“Is there anything else I should know? Special tips?”

“Not really, it’s like a drunk person but when he’ll be back, he’ll be wrecked mentally.”

“Okay, thanks, talk to you later.”

“Later.”

Liam was thankful because Louis didn’t live that far away, and the traffic was rather good in the middle of the day so that was a good thing.

“Louis? I’m on my way. How are you?” Liam asked, still in call with Louis. But Louis didn’t answer, Liam could answer muffled noises that sounded like cries. “Louis?” A loud noise startled Liam but he could hear the cry more clearly now. “I’m with you Lou. Always.”

It still took 20 extremely long minutes to arrive to Louis’ address. The phone was even more muffled now, but Liam was still hearing Louis crying in the distance. Liam looked at the messages with the code to enter the building, soon enough, he was running to the 5th floor. Liam found the key taped under the rug and opened the door.

The flat seemed intact but there were no lights on and no Louis. Liam followed the sound of crying to an open door, finding Louis sitting on the floor of his messed-up room, turning his back to him. Liam hung up.

“Louis?”

“I’m so sorry…” Louis cried some more.

Written on these walls are the colours that I can’t change
Leave my heart open but it stays right here in its cage

“What are you sorry for?” Liam asked, walking in the room and sitting on the bed, behind Louis.

“I was sober, but it was just too much.” Louis explained, hugging himself.

“What was too much?” But Louis didn’t answer, and Liam looked around him before frowning. “Where is it?”

“Living room.” Louis sobbed.

Liam got up and went back to the living room, on the table in front of the couch was Louis’ wallet and a sealed packet of white powder. Sealed? Liam grabbed the packet and went back to Louis’ room.

“Did you ingest it?” Liam asked, knowing the answer.

“It’s the same thing.” Louis countered angrily. Liam went to sit on the bedside table to face Louis this time, he tilted his chin to make Louis look at him and he showed him the packet.

And I’ll be gone, gone tonight
The fire beneath my feet is burning bright

“Oh no, it’s not. Believe me. Niall told me you used to be a drug addict, but this packet is sealed, you didn’t take that shit Louis. You felt pressured in life and I’m sorry for that and you bought it, but you realised your mistake before it was too late. Louis you’re still sober. You could be proud of you.” Liam claimed, putting the packet away and hugging Louis who started sobbing loudly.

“I don’t feel proud.” Louis admitted after a while.

“I’ll be proud for two then.”

The way that I been holding on so tight
With nothing in between

“Thank you for coming.” Louis thanked him, still crying.

“That’s what friends are for.”

“I didn’t want to disturb you.”

“I didn’t have anything important to do.” Liam assured Louis, holding him closer. “Come on mate, take a shower, I’ll order us some tacos, and we’ll do something meaningless to forget about today, how does it sound?”

“Perfect. Thanks Liam.”

The story of my life I take him home
I drive all night to keep him warm and time…
Is frozen (the story of, the story of)

“He’s sleeping.” Liam informed Niall as he closed the door behind him.

“How bad was it?” Niall asked, worries showing on his face. Liam took the packet out of his pocket and gave it to Niall.

“Unopened. Louis is stronger than he wants to believe it.” Liam explained. “He was panicked by something that he didn’t to talk about and it pushed him to buy a packet he didn’t even open. He was angry at himself because he bought it, and a sober and sane person wouldn’t do that or so he thought.”

“Guess I’ll call his therapist to have an appointment quickly.” Niall sighed. “Thanks a million time for helping him going through this Liam.”

“Hey, we’re friends, it’s normal to be there in the good times and even more in the bad ones.” Liam corrected Niall who smiled and nodded.

The story of my life I give him hope
The story of my life (the story of, the story of)

“We’re both lucky to have met you.”

“Don’t encourage my ego to grow any bigger.” Liam joked. “Now, I can’t do much more, you’ll be fine?”

“Yeah, thanks again.”

Liam nodded and left Louis’ flat. Going back to his own flat to have a good night of sleep and hopefully Louis would feel better by the morning. Liam didn’t even think about the fact that he totally forgot to talk to William. He was too tired for that. He drove safely, dreaming of his bed.

Chapter Text

Liam knew he should have expected it. It was logical. He told Zayn and Harry he would tell the man he loved about his feelings. He disappeared for around 5 hours. It was only logical that Zayn and Harry would be waiting for him at his flat when he returned.

But he wasn’t really ready to face them now after the draining afternoon he had, Liam saw Zayn and Harry exchanging looks and he knew he couldn’t go to bed without doing some explaining so he sighed and went to sit in front of them in the living room.

“Did he say fuck you?” Harry asked, biting his bottom lips.

“I was with Louis.” Liam said before he interrupted.

“You changed your mind?” Zayn cut him.

“No. Let me talk.” Liam commanded and Zayn and Harry shut. “I was about to talk to William, but Louis called, he was in troubles, and he needed my help. William could wait, not Louis. And now I’m really tired so I’ll go to sleep and talk to William later if you don’t mind.”

“No, of course not, sorry mate.” Zayn excused as he was coming to hug Liam with Harry. “Go to bed, we’ll come tomorrow with lunch.”

We were meant to be but a twist of fate
Made it so you had to walk away

Louis heard the bell ringing and went to open the door, high fiving a septic Niall who entered the flat and followed Louis to the kitchen. Louis was finishing his breakfast when Niall decided it was time to break the fun.

“So, are you feeling better?”

“I am, as you can see. I eat fruits which is a miracle with me.”

“You should call Liam more if he has that effect on you.” Niall laughed and Louis sticked his tongue out at his friend.

“I wasn’t really thinking.” Louis explained. “I needed help, and I wanted him to be with me, so I called him.”

“Wouldn’t little Louis be in love with Liam?” Niall teased

“I appreciate Liam, he’s a great friend but he’s not the man I love.” Louis corrected.

“Alright, who is it the man you love? The man who made you so anxious and so serious at the same time?”

“Nice try. I don’t want to talk about it.” Louis said, disappearing with his porridge.

Cause we’re on fire, we're all on fire
We’re on fire now

Liam had finally managed to gather a good night of sleep. And he woke up almost at mid-day, he didn’t realise how much he had been affected by what happened to Louis until he woke up and sent a message to Louis, breathing normally again only after Louis answered.

Liam: Hey there, I hope you’re doing better, let me know if you need anything. 11:48AM

Louis: Hey, thanks Li. I’m doing fine, thanks to you. Niall is here so do not worry about me and have some time for you. 11:51AM

Liam decided then to send a message to William to see.

James started a conversation.

James: Good morning, how are you doing? 11:53AM

But William wasn’t answering so Liam decided to take a shower, he got dressed and Zayn and Harry arrived soon after. They ate lunch calmly, watching Batman because they understood how stressed the last day had been for Liam. But Liam was beginning to stress again because William wasn’t answering, and William was always so quick to answer apart early in the morning.

I don’t care what people say when we’re together
You know I want to be the one who holds you when you sleep

Rationally, it was a bad idea. Louis knew that of course but that didn’t mean he would stop it. Yesterday had been complicated and Louis needed a drink or two and they were probably at their 4th drink or more, but Niall was laughing, and Louis was too intoxicated to care.

“What’s his name then? Can I know that at least?” Niall asked, asking for another drink.

“James.” Louis finally admitted.

“Did you talk about him to your therapist?”

“A bit yes.”

“Was he happy?”

“Careful.” Louis admitted. “He knows how I can be with people and ruin everything in a matter of seconds.”

“I don’t know much about that James, but he seems like the right lad, why don’t you send him a message to tell him about your feelings?” Niall proposed, cheering.

“I’m not ready.” Louis refused, drinking his own glass.

“Stop thinking too much about it, Lou, live, love, laugh or whatever it is.”

Louis thought about it before he nodded and grabbed his phone.

“I love him so much.” Louis said and Niall giggled, falling off his stool.

I just want it to be you and I forever
I know you wanna leave
So come on baby be with me so happily

Liam was a bit tired not going to lie. He was having a cosy evening, and he just didn’t expect the barman of some random bar to call him and tell him to pick up Louis and Niall who were being pain in the asses of that poor man. Liam wondered if drinking so close to Louis freaking out was really a good idea, but it was too late anyway.

Liam was about to enter the bar when his phone rang so he checked it and froze.

William: I love you so much I’m afraid of my feelings. 1:08AM

Liam stayed frozen for a minute before pocketing his phone. It could wait he needed to bring Louis and Niall home before.

Yeah, we’re on fire, we are on fire
We’re on fire now

Liam had troubles bringing Louis to the 5th floor, but he managed to open the door and push Louis inside. He settled him on the sofa and went to the kitchen to grab a glass of water which he gave to Louis who drank it obediently.

“What’s going through your mind to get drunk the day before seeing your therapist?” Liam scolded him

“Niall needed a drink.” Louis explained, getting on his feet, stumbling on the rug and falling against Liam who caught him.

“I’ll teach you to say no more when you’ll be sober again, go to sleep now.”

“Thanks for always having my back.” Louis slurred and Liam blushed, sending Louis to his room. He waited a bit and made sure Louis was in bed before leaving the flat.

Chapter Text

Two days after the incident, Louis was back, a bit earlier than planned, in his therapist office. And sober after he deeply regretted his night out with Niall to drink. What a fucking bad idea the two of them had. Things had always been like that since they were 4.

“Good evening, Louis.” Vincent, his therapist saluted after he entered the office and sat down.

“Good evening, Vincent. I think Niall summed the situation?”

“He did. But I would like to hear your version of the story.”

“A few weeks ago, I met a boy on my dating app, we talked a lot together and we were great friends I believe. I stopped finding quick hookup and nobody really believed it, not even me but he was a real miracle. But the other day, he called me by a sweet name and things got real you know. I was afraid of ruining everything, of my own feelings, I was afraid of everything and I was overwhelmed, and I fled everything to go buy a packet.”

“Did you open it?”

“No, as I was holding the packet. I thought of my friend Liam, and I panicked, realising what I had been on the verge of doing.” Louis explained.

“You will never know Louis, maybe you weren’t at all planning to open it.”

“That’s what Liam said as well.”

“That Liam seems like a wise friend.” The therapist commented. “You’ve been sober for several years now Louis. You found by the past a balance with your hookups but now that you stopped hooking up because your feelings made you stay away from other people. You’re still trying to find your balance. When you were in a bad situation, you needed something to hold on to. Your first instinct was drug but, in the end, you hold on to Liam.”

“That’s what friends are for.” Louis shrugged casually.

“It’s true but I would like to ask you why you called Liam and not Niall this time?”

“I wanted Liam, I don’t think there’s another explanation. My brain was only thinking of Liam, at that time, I didn’t even consider Niall at all, I’m a shit friend.”

“I think you should consider the fact that maybe Liam isn’t just a friend.” Vincent proposed and Louis’ brain short circuited for a while. “Louis?”

“Alright.” Louis conceded after a long silence. He swallowed hard and looked back at his therapist. “Then I did a mistake with James…”

If this room was burning
I wouldn’t even notice

Liam was in his bed, contemplating the love declaration William sent him the night before. It was a complicated story really. William had been distant those last two days, not even answering a simple question Liam asked him and suddenly, out of nowhere, he was speaking about love. Liam continued to look at the screen. More precisely, at the following messages.

James: Please, tell me you’re not joking. 2:32AM

James: Are you okay, William? 10:25AM

James: I don’t know what to think of what you said if you’re not even able to talk to me after you said something like that. 5:14PM

Liam had wanted to believe William was honest and he had always seemed honest, but this behaviour was too strange not to be suspicious, and Liam hated William for that. For making him feel like it was just a lie or pity or maybe even both.

Cause you’ve been taking up my mind
With your little white lies
Your little white lies

At the same time, Liam deeply believed William wasn’t like that and maybe something bad happened. With William not answering, he could never know what the fuck was going on with William and why his love interest was behaving weirdly lately. Liam really wanted to believe it wouldn’t last, and it was just some kind of mistake.

Liam threw his phone away, angry but it rang, and Liam grabbed his phone that fell on the carpet to see that William had finally answered. Liam closed his eyes and breathed deeply before nodding and opening his app to see the message.

William: I am sorry James it wasn’t fair to tell you something like that when I was drinking and not thinking clearly. 5:31PM

James: So, you really didn’t think anything you said… 5:32PM

William: NO! 5:32PM
William: I mean, a part of me loves you but I’m not sure I can love you entirely and that’s what you deserve. Never settle for less than that. 5:33PM

James: Alright. 5:34PM

James ended the conversation.

Liam wiped away his tears, but he couldn’t escape it. He was sad and completely defeated. He called Zayn who said he’d arrive soon and laid in his bed trying not to think about the whole situation in which he was crying about a stupid man he never met but loved so much and felt so many things for.

But you, you don’t tell the truth, no you
You like playing games

Liam heard the front door opening, Zayn and Harry had the keys of his flat just in case and it came in handy right about now because Liam wouldn’t have been able to open the door in that state. Liam stayed in his bed, trying to wipe away his tears as much as possible while Zayn’s footsteps were echoing in the living room and coming closer.

“What happened?” Zayn asked, sitting at the end of the bed.

“He loves me.” Liam only answered, hiding his face in his pillow to hide how pathetic he felt.

“But?”

“But not entirely and I deserve someone who can love me completely.”

“He’s honest.” Zayn said as if it was a good thing.

“Can I really trust him just because he says things like ‘you deserve the world’? You’re being naïve. It was just a big game, and I was in the middle of it.”

“You’re hurt. Give it time bro.” Zayn advised.

“I’ll end up alone because nobody is honest with me.” Liam complained.

“I am honest with you, so is Harry and probably Louis because he couldn’t lie to you for the shit of God.” Zayn listed, patting Liam’s ankle which made him sob loudly.

“I hate you all.”

“Noted. I’ll go open the door to the delivery man who brought you heartbreak ice cream.”

Cause you’ve been telling me all night
With your, little white lies, little white lies
With your, little white lies, little white lies

Liam finally calmed down when Louis asked if he could come over and Liam agreed. Zayn wasn’t a good counsellor but maybe Louis was better. Louis arrived for dinner, and they ate kebab because Louis always seemed to make a point making sure they would have a very unhealthy meal.

Liam didn’t help their case but suggesting the ice cream Zayn bought him earlier for dessert and Louis grinned happily. They ate probably too much of it according to Liam and not enough according to Louis before leaving the kitchen.

“By the way.” Louis said as they were going to Liam’s room to watch a movie or maybe 4. “I didn’t thank you properly for taking us back home the other day after we drank that much so thank you Liam, you always have my back, and I appreciate it so much.”

“It’s not a problem Lou, you’re my friend and I’ll always have your back.”

Maybe they should have known that with their last days being chaotic, neither of them would end up awake to watch the credits of their first movie. They were asleep in no time, nuzzled against one another.

Everything else just fades away

Chapter Text

Lights go down, and the night is calling to me, yeah
I hear voices singing songs in the street

Liam woke up with a painful back and a warm body snuggling against his. He opened one eye to see Louis sleeping peacefully against him and Liam smiled. He hugged Louis closer carefully in order not to wake him up, but he failed, and Louis laughed.

“Liam, you’re tickling me!” Louis complained, half laughing. Liam didn’t say anything, it was real for sure, but it looked like a dream. A beautiful dream for sure. “Alright, let’s go back to sleep, I’m still tired.” Louis proposed and Liam nodded, holding Louis against him, fearing that Louis would go away but knowing that Louis wouldn’t go anywhere.

Right now
I wish you were here with me

When Liam woke up again, it was bright outside, the sun was shining through the curtains, but the room was silent, and Liam felt cold suddenly. Liam sat and tried to find Louis, but the bed was empty. Liam got up quickly and inspected the flat, but Louis was nowhere to be seen. His entire flat was empty, and Liam felt panic rising inside him.

Liam: You left? Are you okay? Did I do something wrong? 9:33AM

But Louis didn’t answer, and Liam couldn’t escape but be worried, so he grabbed his keys and a jacket and left his flat taking the tube to Louis’ flat. He was probably not in a good state enough to drive. He arrived at Louis’ flat way too late to his own opinion and entered the building, running to the 5th floor.

He knocked loudly on the door.

“Louis? It’s Liam. Are you here?” He asked loudly. Nobody answered and Liam knocked again but was stopped when he heard a faint chatter in the flat. Louis was here but he didn’t want to see Liam. “Louis?” After another minute of waiting in vain, Liam left, wiping his tears and pretending the last 12 hours didn’t exist at all.

Cause right now
Everything is new to me

Liam was at the door when he heard Niall screaming his name in the stairs so he did the only thing he could think of, he ran away, as far as he could. Louis wasn’t the only one who could flee. Maybe he was being a coward but he was hurt and he needed to stop thinking about Louis.

You know I can't fight the feeling
And every night I feel it

Liam took the Tube to his work building and arrived quicker than he expected. He entered the elevator and went to the highest floor. He knocked on the door of his boss who waved him inside.

“Liam!” Melia exclaimed, seeing him but her cheerful energy disappeared when she noticed the state Liam was in. “Is everything alright?”

“I was wondering if maybe you’d have a travel for me? Like very soon. I’m ready to go whenever you are.” Liam said, trying to stay calm.

“I love you Liam, you’re a great journalist, you’ve always been and you’re a rare journalist who can travel without wanting to stay there or who’s crying to go back home earlier but I can’t accept your request right now.” Melia denied him, crossing her arms and sitting on the edge of her desk, looking at Liam worriedly.

“Why?”

“Because you don’t want to work Liam, you want to flee. I’ll tell you something, fleeing is never the solution. Fleeing is a coward move and you’re no coward.”

“So, everyone can flee but not me? Wonderful.”

“Be stronger than everyone else, show them what it is to be strong and to confront your problems instead of running away.” Melia advised him. “You could be proud really, I never saw you run away, and it shows your strength. Don’t change now.”

Liam nodded, defeated and decided to go back home but he didn’t feel proud, he really felt like shit and wanted to slap anyone who’d dare messing with him.

Late night spaces
With all our friends, you and me, yeah

“What did you need a night out for again?” Harry asked, downing his 6th shot of tequila and grimacing.

“Regaining my strength or whatever Melia said.” Liam explained, asking the barman for another round.

“To Liam’s strength.” Zayn cheered. They cheered with him.

“Liam?” A voice asked from behind and Liam really wanted not to have that chat yet.

“Hello Niall, I won’t talk, so you can have shots with us if you want or you can go home.” Liam proposed.

Niall sat down and drank the shot the barman put in front of him without saying anything, he shrugged when Liam raised an eyebrow at him.

Love these faces
Just like how it used to be

Liam heard Harry whispering to Niall about Louis, but Niall only said it was complicated, and Harry was too busy downing another shot to ask more about it which Liam was thankful about really. The barman poured them all another round and they cheered again, downing their shots. Liam was finally able to make his brain calmer.

They took two more rounds before they decided to stop. Zayn and Harry went to the restroom and Liam wanted to swear. But Niall didn’t say anything, he was watching the dancefloor, seemingly bored.

“I thought you’d try to talk to me.” Liam said.

“We’re friends.” Niall added. “You tell me to shut up, I shut up, it’s as simple as that.”

“Thank you for that.” Liam thanked him but Niall just smiled. Niall got up when Zayn and Harry were coming back to go to the restroom as well and Liam waved to the barman.

“Could I have our bill, please?” Liam asked, taking his wallet out.

“It won’t be necessary.” The barman explained. “Someone already paid your bill.” Liam turned to the barman, stunned.

“What? Are you sure?”

“Someone already paid your bill.” The barman repeated with a polite and warm smile. “Good end of night.” As he was leaving, Liam called him again.

“Wait, who?” Liam asked again. “Is he still here so we can thank him or her or them?”

“It’s a faithful client of us, he called and said to put your bill on his account and that he’d come tomorrow.”

“What’s his name?” Liam almost screamed this time. The barman sighed.

“Louis.” He admitted and Liam ran to the exit. He vaguely heard the barman talk about not being supposed to talk about it but Liam was already running in the streets.

And we won't be going home
For so long, for so long

It took Liam eight minutes to stop running, realising that if Louis didn’t come, that meant he wouldn’t open the door to Liam. What was going on lately? What happened? No, Liam shook his head. He needed to stop thinking about it too much. He was stronger than that. Melia was right. Liam stepped back and went back home.

But I know, I won't be on my own

Chapter Text

“I’m sure it’s only a matter of hours now.” Niall promised. “He’s seen his therapist three time in the last 6 days, and he’s thought a lot about everything. Everything will be solved.”

“I have no idea what you’re even talking about.” Liam said, looking at Niall like he was speaking Italian. “Louis decided to stay away that’s his choice, why are you even coming here every two mornings to tell me he’ll come back?”

“Because Zayn told me you’re going crazy without Louis in your life.”

“That stupid moron. It’s not true.”

“Louis sleeps in the sweater you left at his flat last time every night.” Niall added, and Liam turned his head so Niall wouldn’t see him blushing. “I told him to wash it. He almost hit me with his guitar.”

“It doesn’t mean anything.”

“You two are blind as fuck.” Niall complained.

So, your friends been telling me
You been sleeping with my sweater
And that you can’t stop missing me

“We’re not. But you don’t know everything about us. Life isn’t always this easy.”

“Harry told me about your dating app guy, Louis had the same thing, that doesn’t mean you can’t be together because you used to love someone else in the past. Leave the past where it is Li.”

“I have to go to work, see you later.” Liam intervened, abandoning his breakfast and grabbing his things to leave making Niall sigh loudly.

Liam believed Louis and him could have a beautiful story together when Louis would be ready, but he didn’t really know if he was ready himself. He stopped talking with William after they explained themselves, but Liam was still thinking of him.

How healthy could a relationship be if Liam was thinking of somebody else when he was holding Louis. Louis deserved better than that and not one of their friends was ready to hear it. It echoed what William told him. Nobody deserved to be half loved.

And if everyone seemed to say that Louis was in love with him, Liam doubted it. They were friends for sure, but they didn’t know each other. Liam knew William better than he knew Louis and it was a hard thought to have.

Bet my friends been telling you
I’m not doing much better
Cause I’m missing half of me

Liam worked not so efficiently that day, his mind was always distracted by Louis and William and love and the fact that he would probably end up alone with cats even if Liam was more of a dog person to be honest. Maybe Liam should adopt a dog, a border collie would be just fine in his flat or maybe not.

Maybe Liam was being dramatic, but things had been so complicated lately, Liam just didn’t see a solution. Maybe, he should try to talk with Louis. He didn’t send any message since that day Louis escaped but maybe now was the time. Liam hated the whole hesitation he had when it came to Louis lately.

And being here without you
Is like I’m waking up to

Once work was done, Liam decided to pass by Louis’ flat and see if Louis would be up for a chat. But Liam’s panic rose when he arrived at the 5th floor and he noticed the door of Louis’ flat was wide open with lights on, Liam entered and closed the door behind him. The keys were on the door.

“Louis? Are you in there?” No one answered.

Liam sighed, he checked every room Louis was nowhere, but he stopped in front of a light grey door realising he never went through that door. What even was this room? Liam entered and was surprised to find a music studio. Liam’s eyes were attracted by a specific guitar, a guitar too similar to the one William was holding on his picture not to be disturbing him.

Liam approached and caressed the guitar before shaking his head. Now really wasn’t the time to think about William. Liam looked at the room, micros, an acoustic guitar, a piano and everything to record a melody. It pained Liam when he realised, he never knew where Louis worked before he entered this room. And it pained Liam that Louis had to remind him so much of William.

Only half a blue sky
Kind of there but not quite

Liam decided to go back home, making sure to lock the door of Louis’ flat once he left and he tried to call Niall, but he wasn’t answering. Liam tried to call Louis too, but he was on answerphone after barely one ring, and it didn’t help Liam’s fear from rising more and more every minute passing by.

I’m walking round with just one shoe
I’m half a heart without you

Liam considered running to Niall’s address before he realised, he didn’t know Niall address. Liam felt so powerless, standing in the streets’, hoping Louis was safe, out there alone and not prepared. What went through his mind holy fuck?

I’m half a man at best
With half an arrow in my chest

Liam was ready to cry when his phone rang, was Niall answering?

Louis: Where you at? 6:37PM

Liam: YOU???? 6:37PM

Louis: Yours? 6:39PM

Liam: Stupid moron. On my way. 6:40PM

Liam was running now. Like he never ran before. What was Louis even thinking? If he was thinking at all. To leave his flat open and run to Liam’s flat like it was a normal behaviour.

I miss everything we do
I’m half a heart without you

Liam arrived at his flat and it was locked, could Louis really be there. Liam opened the door and closed it and found Louis half asleep in a bad position on the couch. Liam walked to Louis and stood in front of him, crossing his arms.

“You’re mad.” Louis observed, getting up with difficulty.

“Yes, I am.” Liam agreed. “I went to your flat and found everything open like you were just fucking kidnapped and then you tell me you’re at my place, how I hate you so much Louis.”

“Please don’t hate me.” Louis asked, getting up and hugging Liam. “I love you too much for you to hate me in return.” Louis began to cry, and Liam stayed there frozen both by Louis’ statement and his cries.

After a while, Louis stopped crying and Liam noticed he had fallen asleep on his shoulder. He lifted him and put him in bed.

Forget all we said that night
No it doesn’t even matter

Liam closed the door of his room behind him and went to sit on his couch. He didn’t expect Louis to tell him he loved him while being drunk. It didn’t seem very romantic but drunk people were often more honest. Liam didn’t know what to believe anymore, this whole story was too complicated.

They didn’t even know each other properly. Liam couldn’t even tell what Louis’ last name was. Liam’s phone rang and he sighed. Niall was calling back.

“Hey Li, what can I do for you? Sorry, I was showering.” Niall explained.

“What’s Louis last name?” Liam asked, watching the ceiling.

“What?”

“What’s Louis last name?" Liam repeated, eyes glued to the white ceiling.

“Tomlinson, why?”

Everything stopped working in Liam’s brain at that moment. Louis Tomlinson. The main songwriter of Alive. No wonder Louis knew the lyrics of the song he wrote the damn song. But if it was just worse than that?

“What’s his middle name?” Liam asked.

“What are you doing, Liam?” Niall countered, apparently confused or afraid or both.

“His middle name is William, isn’t it?”

“Yes.” Niall confirmed. “How do you know?”

“We’re the same morons, bye Niall.”

“Wait.” But Liam hung up.

It all made sense now. William was a songwriter and music producer like Louis and William said he used another name because William wasn’t his real name. They had the exact same guitar. They have the same age. William said he didn’t love James entirely because he loved Liam. Liam’s head was ready to explode.

He never loved two persons he loved the same person since the beginning without knowing it. Liam realised he was crying. He wiped his tears but they kept coming back.

Though I try to get you out of my head
The truth is I got lost without you

Louis had always been the only one.

Chapter Text

Louis woke up feeling like shit, what a great idea it had been to drink after he came back home from his appointment with Vincent. Wait a minute, Louis froze, that wasn’t his bed, but he still knew that bed. Why was he in Liam’s bed?

Louis concentrated and remembered running away from his flat to tell Liam he loved him. What a fucking great idea. Louis wanted to slap himself in the face. Liam would never believe it if Louis was drunk.

Louis finally opened his eyes and was surprised to find Liam asleep on a chair next to the bed and oh yes, indeed. Liam was holding his hand. Did he really deserve it?

Better than words
But more than a feeling

Louis stirred and sat on the bed, squeezing Liam’s hand slightly.

“I don’t want your back to hurt, take the bed.” Louis spoke softly.

“Are you feeling better?" Liam asked, opening his eyes and yawning but not taking his hand away.

“Hum, yes. Thanks to you. I owe you so many things, I’m a shit human.” Louis laughed.

“Come on, don’t be like that. We all have our bad moments, I’m here for you, always.” Liam promised and Louis felt his heart beating quickly in his chest.

Louis pulled at Liam’s hand and Liam nodded, laying down next to Louis but only just holding his hand. Louis rolled to be resting against Liam who laughed and hugged his waist. They stayed silent for a while, appreciating the embrace.

“It may be inappropriate, but I wanted you to know that I think every word I said last night, I was drunk only to have enough courage to say it out loud.” Louis admitted softly. “But you need to know that a while ago I met someone on a dating app, and I loved him because he was wonderful. I think a part of me still loves him so I wouldn’t blame you if you told me to fuck off.”

“About that. You need to know something.” Liam piped up.

“You’re going to tell me to fuck off.”

“About James.”

“How do you know his name?” Louis asked, surprised and confused.

“I am James.” Liam admitted seriously, looking into Louis’ eyes who grew wide.

“What?”

“It’s probably Destiny and all that romantic shit that we both had the same dumb idea of using our middle name to date.” Liam added, laughing this time.

“You’re James?” Louis asked in disbelief, he grabbed Liam’s chin and turned his head to inspect his face. “Oh, fuck me.” Louis added before crashing his lips against Liam’s.

“Later.” Liam replied and Louis slapped his arm.

Every time we touch
I’m all shook up

“Let me correct myself then.” Louis asked very solemnly, he sat on the bed and Liam did the same. Louis took Liam’s hands in his and smiled fondly at him. “Liam James, you’re an idiot, good news, I am an idiot too and I loved you so much that I didn’t realise I was in love with you too. It still feels surreal honestly because you are what I love the most on…” But Louis was cut when Liam surged forward to kiss him again.

“Please, stop talking.”

“You’re extremely ungrateful my love.” Louis pouted, crossing his arms but Liam only blushed at the pet’s name.

“I still can’t believe it and you’re just saying it so easily.” Liam remarked.

“Liam, I need to tell you something. That song you’re singing so often, Alive. It’s not just any popular song.”

“You wrote it, I know.” Liam said.

“I didn’t just write it.” Louis added, shaking his head. “I lived it, it was my life before you, I was running from boys to boys to have quickies in restrooms of shitty bars. I needed it, it was my sane addiction.”

“After the drugs?” Liam asked and Louis nodded.

“I thought I’d die like that but then, you came into my life and just like that, I was at your feet wishing you’d see me and without even realising it, I hadn’t been with anyone since I met you.”

You make me want to oohh
How deep is your love
God only knows, baby

Liam hugged Louis tightly.

“I won’t say I am not worried at all because of your past but I believe honesty is important between us now and I know we will make it if we’re together.” Liam promised, holding Louis against him.

“Show me what no one really showed me before.” Louis whispered, leaning in to press a gentle kiss against Liam’s lips.

“Are you sure?”

“With you? Always.” Liam smiled at that statement, kissing Louis again and deepening the kiss.

Both opened their lips to let their tongues fight together for dominance. Louis gave in, the feeling of Liam’s tongue against his was just too much for him and he was already hardening in his pants. Panting heavily after separating himself from Louis, Liam made him lay down and laid on top of him. Kissing him again.

Oohh I don’t know how else to sum it up
Cause words ain’t good enough

Liam’s hand slid under Louis’ shirt making him shiver. Louis was feeling vulnerable for the first time since forever. It’s like Liam was really seeing him for who he was and loving him for who he was. Louis couldn’t escape a moan when Liam kissed him in his neck and began to bite the skin gently at first and then a bit more harshly.

The room was heating up really fast and both of them knew Louis would have a very important love bite on his neck that would appear in the following hours.

“More.” Louis commanded in a whisper.

“Your wish is my command.” Liam promised, licking over the red spot and making Louis moan obscenely.

Oohh there’s no way I can explain your love, no
Oohh I don’t know how else to sum it up
Cause words ain’t good enough

Liam smiled devilishly and grabbed Louis’ ass making him groan.

“Liam.” He begged through laboured breaths. “Come on already.”

“Take your shirt off first.” Liam commanded in Louis’ ear, eyeing with a satisfied smile the goosebumps on Louis’ skin.

While Louis was getting rid of his shirt, Liam did the same and the contact of their heated skins made them moan of pleasure.

“My pants are really tight.” Louis complained and Liam laughed.

“Would you like to take them off too?” Liam questioned in a whisper while kissing Louis’ bare shoulder and making him squirm.

Oohh I can’t explain your love, no
It's better than words
Woah, oohh
Better than words, oohh

Louis and Liam were too caught in their own bubble, they didn’t hear the sounds in the flat until the door of the bedroom opened, revealing Harry, Niall and Zayn who looked at them with widening eyes before they closed the door.

“Sorry.” Zayn shouted.

“I fucking hate you.” Louis answered.

“We’ll get back to it later, I promise darling.” Liam said before grabbing his shirt and putting it on again.

Louis did the same, but he was clearly irritated. They left the bedroom to find their friends waiting in the living room and looking slightly embarrassed by what just happened.

“What’s going on?” Liam finally asked.

“Niall called us last night saying you were acting weird, and Louis disappeared and without any news this morning, we decided to come to see if you were alright.” Harry explained and Louis sighed loudly making Liam laugh and the others blush.

“We are alright.” Louis assured them, before grabbing Niall’s arm and pushing him to the door, Zayn and Harry following. “We’re perfectly fine, thanks for worrying. Bye guys.” Louis said before slamming the door being them and locking it making Liam laugh loudly.

“We have all night baby.” Liam said and Louis chuckled.

“I don’t want to waste a single minute.” Louis admitted in a whisper before capturing Liam’s lips in his.

Chapter Text

I know how it goes
I know how it goes for wrong and right

It wasn’t really planned. And Louis was voicing it clearly. He was extremely moody lately, but it wouldn’t change Liam’s love for him. Their love was stronger than that. They drove for a few hours when Liam finally parked the car in a tiny road of a tiny town up in the North of Bristol. Louis sighed loudly, he did that a lot lately.

“Did you listen when the doctor said I wasn’t supposed to freeze my bits off if I wanted the insemination to go well?” Louis tried to remind his boyfriend.

“I remember vaguely.” Liam joked before escaping the car and Louis followed, still grimacing, they intertwined their fingers and Liam smiled. “I love you, child or not, you know that?”

“I do.” Louis admitted. “And I love you too although I’m really freezing.”

“Let’s go.” Liam said, leading Louis to a lighthouse which made Louis curious.

Silence and sound
Did they ever hold each other

“Are we going to visit a lighthouse?” Louis asked, sceptical.

“There’s something else behind the lighthouse.” Liam explained, winking at Louis who felt even more curious now.

They walked to the lighthouse and Louis could finally see the pier.

“Are we going to visit a pier?” Louis asked, surprised.

“It’s one of the oldest and most beautiful piers of England, Lou.” Liam added and Louis chuckled.

Tight like us
Did they ever fight like us

They entered the lighthouse, and Liam bought them tickets a man led them outside and told them just how great the pier was and how important its preservation was. They nodded before the man left and Liam began walking. The pier was desert. They were alone.

“Is it that bad?” Liam asked as they were halfway to the pavilion and the end of the pier.

“Not really.” Louis admitted. “It’s not something I’d do on my own but with you, it’s surely very enjoyable.”

“Charmer.” Liam countered, kissing Louis quickly and continuing the walk to the pavilion.

“Is it always so desert?” Louis asked curiously.

“We’re in January and it’s freezing just above the canal it can explain the lack of visitor.” Liam proposed with a shrug. “I’m glad to be alone with you.” Louis burst out laughing.

“Not here love, everyone can see us.” Louis said, winking and Liam laughed, slapping Louis’ arm gently.

You & I
We don’t want to be like them
We can make it till the end

When they arrived at the end of the pier, just under the pavilion, Louis smiled and turned to Liam.

“It was agreeable even the freezing my bits off part. Being here on cold day like that with the wind of the canal in our face, it’s beautiful.” Louis said and Liam smiled softly, caressing his boyfriend’s cheek.

“I have one last thing for you.” Liam admitted, taking a box out of his pocket and giving it to Louis. “I know you’re not a big fan of my sap side as you call it, but I’d be extremely happy if you wanted to marry me.” Liam said casually but Louis couldn’t be lied to, Liam’s voice was shaking.

“Of course I will love.” Louis promised, surging forward to kiss Liam. “I’m a bit mad I didn’t see it coming although.” Liam laughed at this comment. How he loved Louis.

Nothing can come between
You & I
Not even the gods above

“Is it too much to ask for a wedding before our child is born?” Louis asked with kitten eyes and Liam nodded, kissing Louis’ nose and making him giggle.

“I love you enough to realise your stupidest will.” Liam promised with that smile that Louis called sappy and Louis kissed him to make it disappear and only for that reason, mind you.

Some things never really changed.

Could separate the two of us
No nothing can come between
You & I

Liam took Louis’ hand and made them sit on a bench facing the water and the shores, it was a beautiful view and a beautiful place to ask such thing.

“Years ago, I wouldn’t ever dare to dream about a future like that.” Louis admitted softly. “A good husband, kids, living together in a beautiful house, I thought I’d end up alone in my flat forever and look at us. I don’t know what will happen in our future but if you are by my side, I’m excited to find out.”

“Stop that, you’re making me cry!” Liam complained, wiping a lone tear on his cheek. “I’m so happy I met you and fuck it if it made me a sap, you deserve the best my love.”

“Now you’re going to make me cry, stop it!” Louis complained and both of them laughed.

Not even the gods above
Could separate the two of us
No nothing can come between
You & I

“How would you like to name our baby?”

“Do you mean the baby that’s not even created yet?” Louis said, laughing. “And that will never be because I’ll be frozen down there.”

“Yes.”

“I mean, we still have a lot of time for that. I didn’t really think about it before today. I don’t want to be disappointed if the insemination fails.” Louis explained and Liam nodded, taking his fiancé’s hand in his.

“You know what that place would be good for?”

“You mean apart a proposal? I don’t know love, fishing?”

“Recording a music video.” Liam proposed. “Could be as romantic as our proposal.” Louis laughed.

“I’m not sure love it would be such a bad idea.” Louis laughed again.

We can make it if we try
You & I

“Try it before criticising.”

“I’d rather try something else.” Louis proposed moving his head closer until his lips were kissing Liam’s. “Stop talking about work my future husband, today is about us.” Liam nodded and kissed Louis again, licking his lips before he heard Louis moaning so slightly.

“We should go.” Liam suggested and Louis nodded eagerly.

Oohh you & I
You & I

Chapter Text

He knows about you in every way
He’s memorised every part of your face

Louis wasn’t being moody, mind you. But he was feeling in a terrific mood lately. More precisely, ever since their surrogate mother had entered her 9th month of pregnancy and since Liam came home a week ago saying they’d have dinner with a friend of his tonight. Louis asked Harry and Zayn because Louis could be curious like that. After all he didn’t know the man.

It was only normal that he asked Zayn and Harry who that guy happened to be, and Louis prayed that it was only a coincidence that the guy happened to be Liam’s best friend for four years in secondary school before Liam met Zayn and Harry and it must probably be a coincidence too that the man seemed to be openly gay nowadays.

Louis didn’t believe in coincidence and not at all about this Jimmy. Of course, Louis was jealous, and he had every reason to be. Who that man thought he was? Coming back years later and trying to hit on Liam? No, that wouldn’t happen, Liam was taken now and Louis trusted Liam, he knew Liam would never look at Jimmy that way.

Louis wasn’t worried about Liam’s behaviour he was worried about what that stranger could try to do with Liam.

Inside and out, baby, head to toe
Yeah, he knows everything there is to know

Louis tried to tell himself that he knew Liam probably better than Jimmy, but he met Liam only two years and a half ago which wasn’t much compared to their four years of friendship. Niall was tired of him, saying how tired he was of Louis’ bullshit. So, Louis decided to invite Niall over for their dinner because Louis needed an ally and Niall agreed because he can be a great friend sometimes.

Your secret tattoos
The way you change moods

It was ridiculous really to be jealous and afraid of a long-lost friend of Liam who Liam barely remembered but maybe Jimmy had been in love with Liam all along and their dinner could go wrong quickly. Louis wasn’t afraid of many things, and he was ready to fight for Liam. Niall called him dramatic, but Louis called himself a sap. Liam’s influence for sure.

The songs that you sing when you're all alone
Your favourite bands and the way that you dance

Finally, the dreaded dinner with Jimmy arrived too soon to Louis’ liking and here he was watching Liam cooking them a wonderful meal for a cockroach who didn’t deserve so much. The bell rang and Louis opened with his best smile to Niall who laughed his butt off and handed him some pricey wine bottle.

But baby, baby
Does he know you can move it like that, oohh

Louis was showing the bottle to Liam when the bell rang again so Niall went to open the door and it revealed Jimmy this time. While Niall was introducing himself, Louis kissed Liam a bit too heatedly for a cosy dinner with friends. Louis was trying to show Jimmy who Liam belonged to and he knew Liam knew so he would get his revenge and Louis agreed even more with his plan now that he saw Liam’s threat in his eyes.

Tonight, you're mine, baby
Does he know that you’ll never go back, oohh
Does he know?

“Nice to meet you Jimmy, I’m Louis.” He introduced himself, shaking Jimmy’s hand and making sure to show off his engagement ring. “I’m Liam’s fiancé but you must know already.”

“Yes, Liam told me everything about you.” Jimmy said laughing and Louis was honestly surprised about that answer, maybe Jimmy was genuinely nice like Liam and Niall said. “It’s nice to finally meet you after I heard so many things about you.

“Come on.” Liam intervened. “Dinner is ready.” He gestured to the living room and winked at Louis before going back to the kitchen, making Louis’ heart flutter. It never failed.

I catch your eye then ya turn away
But there’s no hiding the smile on your face

They sat down and Liam served the dinner. Louis squeezed his hand softly, blowing him a kiss and making Liam giggle.

“It’s so great to see you two together.” Jimmy said.

“Is it?” Louis answered curious. Not being entirely at peace with the man yet.

“Oh yes, I remember in school Liam was already more into boys than girls and he was pretending the contrary because he was sure he’d never find someone who’d love him for who he was.” Jimmy told and Louis turned to Liam who was blushing of embarrassment. “But now, he has you and your future looks so promising, I’m so happy for you mate.”

“Thank you so much Jim.” Liam thanked him, squeezing Louis’ hand back and looking at him fondly. “And you? Did you find love those last years?”

“Love is a complicated matter.” Jimmy answered.

“I can’t agree more.” Niall piped up. “Those two have been pain in my ass before they decided to be the perfect couple, love is so complicated.” Jimmy laughed and Louis gasped silently when he noticed the deep glances Jimmy and Niall were exchanging.

Louis turned to Liam.

“Thanks for the dinner my love, you’re the best.” Liam blushed and kissed Louis’ forehead quietly before going back to the kitchen to fetch a missing plate of food.

So keep trying but you know I see
All the little things that make you who you are

Finally, dinner went extremely well because the enemy seemed more interested in Niall than in Liam, so Louis was able to relax and enjoy the man’s presence. After coffee, Niall and Jimmy were quick to find excuses to disappear and Louis supposed they were somewhere snogging in a dark corner but that was none of his business really.

Him and Liam cleaned the house and went to bed and Louis was just so happy to be able to snuggle with Liam every night of his life. How much more perfect could their lives be?

Chapter Text

Despite what everyone could tell you. Liam admitted he wasn’t one to panic easily. Apart when it was related to Louis and Diana. 2 years, seven months and twelve days after they met each other, Louis and Liam welcomed their little girl, they called her Diana. Diana arrived in their life 6 months almost to the day after they said yes to each other in front of the altar.

Of course, both of them had been extremely cautious and afraid at first. Louis particularly who was afraid to be a shit dad, but Liam made him realise just how important it was for Diana to have both her fathers and Louis was managing better than what he thought.

Diana grew so quickly and today, she was a 4 years-old little girl who caught the flu at school because school are the nightmares of doctor, it was a well-known fact. Two weeks ago, it was louses.

I never would mistreat ya
No I’m not a criminal

If there was one thing that was extremely hard for both of them, it was seeing their child suffering and not being able to heal her as quickly as they wanted. Liam never imagined in his wildest fantasies that Louis would in fact be the gentle dad out of the two of them, but he was, and he was always heartbroken when Diana was in pain.

Liam came back home and was surprised to find Louis in the kitchen, Louis was an awful cook really and he was proud of it most of the time. Liam dropped his things and went to the kitchen to embrace Louis. Louis turned his head to kiss Liam, he seemed tired.

“Is everything okay?” Liam asked, concerned suddenly and turning Louis around to be able to look at him in the eyes.

“I’m a shit cook.” Louis only said but he seemed really upset.

“That’s no surprise, why are you so upset about it?”

“When I was a kid, my mom used to do a special soup for us when we were sick and I wanted to do it for Diana, but it tastes awful.”

“Let me help you.” Liam proposed. “Stop worrying love, it’s not because you failed a soup that you’re a shit dad and you know it.”

“Do I?”

“Lou…”

“Sorry, I’m so upset.”

“I know but it’s going to be alright I swear.” Liam promised him, kissing Louis one last time before grabbing the recipe on the counter and tasting the soup.

Diana let me be the one to
Light a fire inside those eyes

Finally, with Liam’s help, they were able to repair the catastrophic soup Louis had made and he said it even tasted like his mother’s real recipe making Liam proud. Louis was allowed to prepare of bowl of soup for Diana if he didn’t add anything in it and he nodded. Liam noted that he seemed really upset.

It wasn’t just about the soup. Working at home, Louis was always with Diana when she was sick, and it was painful for him. It was probably easier for Liam who was at his office every day.

“Lou love.” Liam called before Louis could go upstairs and Louis turned to him. “It will be alright, really. I know it’s harder for you but I’m here for you.” Louis put the bowl on the kitchen counter and hugged Liam deeply.

“I’m so glad to have you by my side every day.” Louis whispered.

But I can feel you crying

After a while, Louis smiled and took back the bowl, going upstairs to Diana’s room. Liam followed him. They knocked on the door and Diana told them to enter. She was still in her bed, looking less pale than in the morning which made Liam and Louis smile. She sat in her bed and Louis gave her the bowl of soup and the spoon.

“Careful sweetie, it’s hot.” Liam added and Diana nodded, blowing on the liquid before swallowing happily.

“Delicious.” She said after one spoon and both husbands high fived.

Liam sat on the verge of the bed and put his hand on Diana’s forehead, her fever seemed to be lowering which was also a good sign.

“How are you feeling?” Louis asked, sitting on the other side of her bed.

“Bad, I hurt everywhere.” Diana said and Louis pouted, Liam squeezed his hand and tried to give his husband a reassuring smile, but Louis was a naturally worried father. “I’m happy you’re here.” She added swallowing another spoonful of soup and Louis smiled.

Diana let me be the one to
Lift your heart up and save your life

“Do you want anything special love?” Liam asked, looking fondly at Diana who had abandoned her spoon to drink off the bowl.

“I want to stay with you.” Diana said, slurping the end of her soup and making Louis laugh.

“Alright.” Louis piped up. “You’ve been very brave lately so maybe we can take you in our room and watch a movie together.”

“I want Rapunzel!” Diana exclaimed before she coughed, and her dads frowned.

“Alright, Rapunzel it will be.” Liam promised, getting up like Louis and extending his hand to Diana who took it, she shivered, and Liam grabbed her dressing gown to put it on her.

Louis took Diana to their room while Liam grabbed an extra blanket and Diana’s favourite plushie. There was two of them because she said she didn’t want to make one of her father’s feels less loved, so she always kept the two plushie Liam and Louis chose each.

I don’t think you even realise
Baby you’d be saving mine

When Liam arrived in his room, Diana was glued to Louis’ side, already half asleep but Liam still gave her the plushies and covered her with the blanket. Louis put the movie on, and it didn’t take long to Diana to fall asleep, but Liam and Louis kept watching. Holding hands and staring lovingly at Diana’s sleeping face.

“She’s the best thing that ever happened to us.” Louis declared when the credits of the film were rolling on the screen.

“Definitely. But I wouldn’t mind another one.” Liam added and Louis laughed.

“I couldn’t survive to worry that much twice.”

Diana let me be the one to
Lift your heart up and save your life

Liam laughed and leaned closer to kiss Louis.

“I love you.”

“I love you too. You and Diana, you’re the best thing that ever happened to me. You saved me and you made me a new man. One life together won’t be enough to say how thankful I am.” Louis declared, and Liam smiled.

“Don’t be ridiculous darling. You deserved that life, you deserve all the happiness we’re living and even more than that.”

I don’t think you even realise
Baby you’d be saving mine

“Thank you.”

“I’m starving.” Liam commented and Louis laughed.

“Let’s go eat then.”

Chapter Text

It was a sentence of adults. When you meet an old friend at the supermarket and they go “How time flies!” That’s what you think when you’re a child and the next thing you know, you’re meeting with your friends for dinner and when you open the door.

“Long time no see Payno.” Harry exclaimed holding a bottle of champagne. “Aren’t you the cutest?” He added doing a grimace at the same time and making the child in Liam’s arm giggle.

“That’s a good idea.” Liam smiled, handing his 1-year-old son to Harry who smiled and gave the bottle of champagne to Liam in exchange. Holding Leo and cooing. “Training.” Liam said to Zayn who was sighing.

“He doesn’t need training thank you very much Liam.” Zayn scolded but he rubbed Leo’s cheek making the kid giggle some more and he smiled softly.

Zayn and Harry decided to become a foster family soon after they married 6 years ago and they were always caring with the different children under their care. But Harry was getting impatient to have a kid they could call their own. It was only a matter of time Zayn couldn’t refuse anything to his husband.

“Come on.” Liam said finally. “They’re waiting for us.”

The four of them walked to the living room where Louis was talking with Niall and Jimmy. They turned to salute the latest guests arrived.

“Did you sell our son?” Louis asked, raising his eyebrow at Liam who chuckled and kissed his husband.

“Maybe?”

“I’m hungry!” Diana shouted, running into the living room.

“Let’s eat then.” Louis proposed.

Everyone sat around the table and Liam served the dishes. How time flew for sure as he watched all his friends and kids around the table. The silence didn’t last long because Diana was 6 years old now and she was always asking questions.

“Uncle Niall?” She asked in a loud whisper.

“Yes?”

“How did my dads meet?”

The table fell silent, and Harry laughed.

“You need to know that it’s only because of Zayn and me that those two met.” Harry commented.

“I could say the exact same!” Niall countered.

“You were drunk off your ass, you don’t even remember that evening.” Louis added.

“Louis! Watch your mouth in front of children!” Liam scolded him.

Maybe it’s the way he walked
Straight into my heart and stole it

“We met at a bar.” Louis explained.

“Dad was finding a refuge for Uncle Niall who was feeling unwell, but dad wanted to dance some more. He happened to want to dance with me.” Liam continued.

Through the doors and passed the guards
Just like he already owned it

“And we danced for a while we are both extremely good dancers.” Louis said. That made their friends laugh and Louis shot them all a death glare which made shut.

“We didn’t know it was love back then, we were just enjoying the moment and each other’s presence.” Liam added. “We thought we wouldn’t see each other again.”

I said can you give it back to me
He said never in your wildest dreams

“Then, as your daddy was a bit unwell as well, he ran into a door.” Louis told Diana and Liam groaned of embarrassment. “I am a gentleman, so I brought the poor lad back home.”

“Believe it or not.” Zayn piped up. “They met again by accident later that month at a club and they danced again. What was it the name of that song you two were obsessed about?”

“Alive.” Harry provided, Louis and Liam looked at each other and smiled.

And we danced all night to the best song ever
We knew every line

“Love at first sight.” Louis declared.

“Certainly not.” Liam denied. “You were insufferable at first sight Lou.” Louis crossed his arms and Diana laughed. “Love doesn’t need to be at first sight sweetie. I fell in love with your dad a bit more every time we were meeting.”

“I loved you since the first time me.” Louis added like a petulant child and Liam laughed as he chastely kissed Louis.

Now I can’t remember
How it goes

“Is it really important?” Liam asked and Louis shrugged but he was still sulking.

“Maybe not.”

“They played a game of chase me those two.” Niall said to Diana who gasped, and Louis wanted to slap his friend suddenly.

I said can I take you home with me
He said never in your wildest dreams

“We were very different.” Louis explained. “Our personalities collided for a time. I loved Liam’s personality and how he kept refusing everything I was asking him.”

“I’m not sure I loved Louis’ habit of asking those stupid things like ‘take me home’ but I took it as a challenge to never say yes. I never said yes.” Liam stated proudly.

“We literally married 6 years and a half ago Liam.” Louis reminded him and Liam laughed again.

You know, I know, you know I’ll remember you
And I know, you know, I hope you remember how we danced

“Nobody would have bet on them.” Harry said fondly, reminiscing their past. “But you should have seem them sweetie, it was all about their chemistry, those two were thick as thieves in barely two encounters despite being so different. I think that’s when we knew they’d be so much more than that.”

“You can still see it in fact.” Jimmy added. “I wasn’t nowhere near them when they met, and I still see how they’re made for each other. Those differences are what make them so special. Everyone in the room can admit how lovely your dads are together.”

How we danced
1,2,1,2,3

“Every time we danced, we were falling a bit more for each other.” Louis told Diana.

“And it’ll always be like that. We’ll dance until we’re too old for that.” Liam added, smiling to Louis. “But now, we dance with you two as well.”

“I’m not a good dancer, and Leo is barely able to walk.” Diana piped up and everyone around the table laughed.

Cause we danced all night to the best song ever
Danced all night to the best song ever

“That’s not what’s important sweetie.” Louis intervened. “It’s not the beauty of it that’s important, it’s…”

“The memories you remember when you dance even years later.” Liam finished.

Diana got up and went to hug her fathers.

“Teach me to dance.”

The End