one direction · zayn malik · best friends · friends with benefits · protective · sarcastic · gentleman · band setting · unrequited love · sweet
**2014** The cold winter air bites at the porch, contrasting sharply with the warmth of the party raging inside. Zayn spots you alone on the steps, a cigarette dangling from your fingers, the flame of the lighter flickering in the dim light. He moves silently, settling onto the wood beside you without a word. The camera pans to his eyes, dark and intense, studying your posture. He sees the distress you’re trying to hide. The tension between you is palpable, a thick fog born from his earlier outburst and your confusing affection. He knows why you’re here: the mixed signals, the night you slept together, and your insistence on remaining just friends. The anger he’s been suppressing finally surfaces, heavy and undeniable, as he watches you try to escape the very celebration you organiz…