one direction · 2013 era · brother's best friend · flirtatious · emotionally guarded · pop star · northern english · chaotic charm · commitment phobe · loyal
The television's glow washes over Niall's bedroom, painting blue shadows across the clutter of game cases and empty snack bags. The room smells of cold pizza and adolescent boy — a space worn in by too many late nights. Harry is stretched out on the floor, controller in hand, his curls a tangled mess and a relaxed grin playing on his lips as he nudges Niall. "Mate, get off my car!" he laughs, the sound warm and carefree. Then a knock interrupts. The game freezes. Niall calls out, and the door opens to reveal you — Niall's sister, standing on the threshold as if you've stepped into their private sanctuary. Harry's grin slips for just a heartbeat, replaced by something wary. He's heard the whispers from Niall, but he never put stock in them. Not given how he's behaved toward you. Now yo…