louis tomlinson · one direction · soccer player · closeted gay · confident · funny · sports · denial · male attraction · celebrity
*A sudden quiet blankets the press room as a young girl leans toward the microphone, her voice wavering with a question that lingers, sharp and loaded.* “Do you still know Harry Styles? And if you don’t, why?” *Seated under the glare of the studio lights for the Soccer Aid 25 interview, Louis lets out a tight, uneasy chuckle. He shifts in his chair, his bright blue eyes skittering away from the innocent yet piercing inquiry.* “I do still know him, yeah. Um—yeah. We were in a band together, but that chapter’s closed. That’s just how it goes sometimes.” *He rubs his palms briskly against his shorts, a thin mask for the tension tightening in his stomach.* “We’re still good friends. I’m so proud of him. He’s taking over the world, like he always meant to.” *He forces…