#harry's leg in the first one moving when louis moves his own leg

[1d1195]

Faking It

Sometimes while I'm listening to music, things just pop into my head about Harry and I have to write it out real fast before I forget. This is just a little random blurb that I’m posting for no reason.

best friend/roommate!reader x famous!Harry

Warnings: sexual tension, sexual wording

Not proofread (written in my drafts on my phone)

Harry is watching her dance her little heart out to whatever is playing in her ears while she aggressively folds the sheets and towels out of the dryer. He can hear the music playing from where he's standing in the kitchen getting a glass of water. They've been best friends for years and since Harry is often on tour, it's nice to have someone keep an eye on his place, water the flowers, and just...be there when he gets home or shoots home during one of his quick breaks.

She's funny and lovely. One of his favorite people. She doesn't mind acting silly around him and doesn't care if he never cleans up when he's home. "I just like when my best friend is here," she says.

"What are y'even listening to?" She turns down the music so she can hear him.

"It's called Little White Lies, it's by this great band. M'sure you've heard of them: One Direction?" She has the most impish smile on her lips.

He stares at her and blinks slowly. He hates when she does this. It's so annoying. But he finds her adorable anyway. It's been a while since he's been home and he likes seeing her in her element. As if he weren't here. He likes that she's comfortable with him. It feels...like home.

But then, since she's his best friend, she has to go and ruin it.

She shrugs. "Y'know, Harry. Bet you would get a nice girlfriend if they knew they didn't have to fake orgasms around you all the time," she winked at him pushing the laundry basket toward the hallway to the bedrooms before she starts in on the second load of clothing.

He doesn't want to know. If he asks, he'll regret it. "What are y'on 'bout?" He tilted his head back. It was one of those conversations he knew he was going to be exhausted by before it even started.

"When she's alone she goes home to a cactus. In a black dress, she's such an actress?" She quoted his own lyrics to him but phrased it as a question. "Such an actress?" She repeated. "Too bad Harry," she tisks. "You even gotta talk about a dildo being a cactus...like one of the rabbit ones,” she giggled.

Harry wonders if he strangles her if they'll question him first. He's a popstar after all. "M'gonna kill you," he says darting toward her around the half kitchen wall to tickle her. She squeals and takes off to the other side of the room, hiding behind the couch.

"Cause you've been telling me, all night with your little white lies."

"Nobody fakes orgasms with me," he grumbled. "Liam and Louis wrote that song."

She smirked. "Sensitive. I don't mean anything by it," she giggles. "Just think it's funny."

"I'll prove it," he says hopping on the couch and reaching over to grab her before she can escape. She squeals at his aggressive hold as he tosses her down (gently) onto the sofa. "Take y'pants off," he orders.

"Harry," she gasps, face blushing. The headphones fall from her ears, her phone drops to the floor.

"Take 'em off," he repeats. "You'll see."

"Harry," she whispers breathlessly. "I was just kidding."

But his eyes are hungry now. He's looking her over if he's just noticing that she's a girl. A beautiful, adorable, pain-in-the-butt, girl. His best friend that he adores with all his heart. "M'not," his voice is low. Her heart hammers erratically against her ribs.

She can't say she hasn't been dreaming of this. She wants this. She doesn't believe she'll have to fake it. But she doesn't want to force him to do it to prove a point. "Harry," she tries again, but her voice is weak. The protest is faint in her voice. "You don't have--"

"Bet y'have t'fake it all the time, hmm?" He's hovering above her. His legs straddling her hips, his arms pinning her shoulders down. She can't move her gaze from his. She's immobile. He drops his mouth to her ear. "Don't you?" He murmurs so lowly it vibrates all through her body. Right to the space between her thighs. “Bet y'dream about me when m'not here. When you're with someone else,” his lips brush the pulse along the side of her neck. He kisses the space at the bottom of her throat. "I dream about you when m’alone,” her brain is spinning to keep up. She was just joking him. He was too brave to admit that. She’s terrified she’s going to mess up. But he’s inhaling her skin like he’s sniffing out a weakness. Her whole body is one weak spot for him. “S'that why y'like it so much?" He mumbles. "S'that why y'like m'song. Because you're an actress for everyone else? You're not gonna be an actress for me, right? You're gonna be a good girl and not tell me any little white lies?" He asks it as a question, but she knows it's a statement.

"Harry," it was her last chance to protest.

“No, love. M’sure,” he promise sensing the question in just the way she uttered his name. Maybe the benefit to being her best friend he knew what she was thinking. Always. “Jus’ say the word, love,” his lips are a breath away. If she inhales too deeply or exhales at all she’ll be kissing Harry Styles. “Do y’want me t’prove it?”

His eyes are so green his skin smells so good. She can’t breathe or move.

“Yes.”

[sadaveniren]

Louis isn't a perfectionist though. He doesn't learn the lyrics to his own songs, didn't know the date his tour started, was consistently late on stage during ltwt. He's a sweet messy scamp and should just own it. The first thing you learn in boxing is the correct stance and he didn't have it, he was kicking up his legs and doing street fight moves.

See I definitely believe he’s a perfectionist about the things he cares about (much the way Harry is). We’ve seen him try to do top bins (the football move) time and time again just to get it right. He works very hard on getting his lyrics and music sounding exactly how he wants. We know he has a hand in his merch design. His priorities when it comes to his music are different from Harry so it looks like they are differing ideas of perfectionism but that doesn’t mean he’s NOT.

On top of that… we literally just saw in AOTV that he’s spent the majority of his time as a solo artist hating everything he did/performed because it wasn’t good enough or it wasn’t right. That was like… a huge story arc in the documentary; him trying to feel comfortable on stage and get to a point where he felt like what he was doing was good enough for his own standards. Which… if you’ve been following Louis for a long time is also something he talked about having to change (his standards/definition of success). In 2019 he made a whole IG post about how he had to sit and think about doing things FOR HIMSELF and not what everyone else wanted.

So yes. I do think Louis is a perfectionist about stuff he truly cares about. I think he works INSANELY hard at his music and also putting on the best show he can. But his definition of a best show is what HE enjoys doing. He wants it to be a fun show. He wants to feel good during the show about his performance. And I think it’s very obvious he strives to enjoy himself while putting on a great show every single time.

And tbh a lot of artists have no clue the dates or places they are playing. You really don't understand how much an entire tour can just blur together. It even happens to people who follow along with tours, not being able to remember which show they're at. And being late to his own show? That’s also very common. A non-fandom friend went with me to one of Harry’s show at MSG and she was SHOCKED it started on time. Honestly fucking shocked. Because she’d never been to a show where the main act showed up on time.

[around1302]

XVII. YOU HAVE ME

SPARE PARTS: a series (17/20)

BOLOGNE, ITALY

(W) strong language, family restraints, alcohol use, fingering

good lord this has taken me some time to finish. i’m so sorry, life just got in the way. hopefully 4.3k of a smidge of angst and a fuck-ton of fluff makes up for it!

HARRY’S POV

“What’s the move for tonight?”

“You can do what you want, I’m taking Charlie out.”

Niall’s usual grin twists into a smirk, his eyes glinting. I resist the urge to roll my own.

I am taking Charlie out. Not that she necessarily knows that yet.

I don’t mean to sound like a desperate man, but I need Charlie and I to move on like I need air. I can feel her warming to the idea of me, but at the end of the day she still just sees me as her annoying bandmate who’s up to giving her an orgasm or two. 

I need to be more than that to her. I can’t be either nothing or just her temporary fix.

And if there’s one thing that’s apparent about Charlie, it’s that she’s a hopeless romantic. She doesn’t crave sneaking around and fleeting glances and meaningless moments. I’ve seen her face light up more from seeing a couple holding hands in public than when I’ve been literally going down on the girl.

In fact, in the time I’ve known her, she’s only ever dated one person – Zayn, which is also why this could get messy.

(But fuck him. I was there first).

“I’d love to say I’m surprised about this whole thing, but I’m really not.” Niall snorts.

I narrow my eyes, but before I can ask anymore questions, the guys barge into Niall’s suite.

“Fuckin’ Hell, Horan. You have it fancy in here.” Louis gawks far too loudly for the fancy establishment we’re in, but I have to say, I share the sentiment. We all have nice rooms (it’s the most expensive hotel in Bologne, for God’s sake) but Niall managed to bag da Vinci’s fucking shrine. 

Niall shrugs, sitting up with that mischievous flicker in his eyes.

“Lia still out?”

“Yeah,” Liam explains, “she’s dragging Charlie and Zayn round the shops. Tried to rope us in but we managed to escape.”

My chest tightens. I force it to relax.

Liam throws his legs up on the Ottoman, stretching out. After the show last night, we’re all exhausted. After nearly four months of touring, non stop performing and the consequential non stop partying, we’re all wiped the fuck out. It’s why Niall and I said no to their little day trip around Italy. To put it frankly: I can’t be arsed with the tourism shit when there’s a mini bar five feet away from me up here.

“Good,” Niall reaches behind him, pulling a small velvet box from his pocket.

“What the fuck is that?” I spit.

“This, my friend,” Niall flicks the box open. My suspicions are confirmed, “is about to get me the best head I’ve ever had.”

“Holy shit.” Louis grabs the diamond, making Niall fly up and snatch it back. 

“For real?” Liam stands too, while I’m still sat in shock.

“Why I got this fancy suite,” Niall’s as giddy as a kid on Christmas, “want to do it tonight. Italy’s always been her favourite place and I figure–”

“You’re twenty-one.” “Twenty-two this year.”

I scowl. Niall’s cheeky grin droops.

“Oh come on, man. Who cares how old we are? I know I’m gonna be with this girl till I’m all old and gross and grey, why not seal the deal now?”

“Because it’s insane!” I splutter. I’m not angry. Am I? Why am I angry?

“Hardly,” Louis sharply laughs, “they’ve been basically married since they met.”

“Okay, but being basically married and being actually married are two very different things.”

“Dude, don’t you think I know that? I have thought about this, you know.”

My jaw tightens.

My best friend is about to propose to his girlfriend, and I can’t say I’ve ever even had one. The girl I’ve been in lo– whatever. It doesn’t matter. The point is, I can narrow my anger down to one, ugly thing: bitter fucking jealousy. 

So, I do the mature thing; I storm out.

Luckily for me, the second I step out into the hallway – all heaving chest and unnecessary frustration – Charlie, Amelia and Zayn bump into me. They’re all laughing about something, a million shopping bags between them.

“Oh, hey man–” Zayn starts, but I cut him off by grabbing Charlie’s waist and pushing her in the direction of my room. The sliver of skin given to me below her crop top sends a spike through my spine. 

I don’t care that Zayn is probably about to start quizzing Amelia to no end, all I care about is the universe quite literally handing me the only person I want to talk to right now.

“Yo, what the fuck?” She twists, staring at me with what I assume is a mixture of vexation and confusion, but I’m too busy staring ahead to notice. Charlie doesn’t make a move to escape my grip (something I know she’s more than capable of doing), so I keep walking us to my room. 

I messily scan my keycard and grab her shopping, setting it down as carefully as I can in my haste before closing the door with her body. 

There’s something else I want to do before talk.

But, I hesitate for a moment, brushing my lips against hers. I silently ask for permission, pulling her toward me so her lower back lifts from the door and our torsos press together. She hesitates, too. Brushing her nose against mine before kissing me with as much urgency as I got her into the room with. 

I sigh into her mouth, completely wrapping my arms around her back to hold her flush against me. “Missed you,” I mumble against her lips, trailing my hand up to hold the back of her head. I rake my fingers through her hair, loosening her ponytail. 

“Missed you too.” She gasps, looping her fingers through my belt hooks.

I nearly let myself smile, but then she palms me over my jeans.

Quickly, I hold her wrist, preventing me from dragging her to bed and insisting we don’t leave my hotel room all night. “Go out with me.” I let the words tumble like a subconscious spill, letting my chest do all the work so my brain doesn’t have to. 

Frowning, she pulls back. Fuck. Fuck, fuck, fuck.

I want to rewind and let her do whatever she wants with me. Why the Hell did I–

“Go out with you?” She’s smiling. She’s smiling.

“Yeah,” I feel my cheeks heating. I’m getting shy, for fuck’s sake. I don’t do shy. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve said those four words over the years, and I’ve lost count of how many people I’ve said it to. I don’t recall nerves ever being a factor in that habit.

“You realise I’m a sure thing, right?” She cocks her head, and I want to kiss the faint dimple that pops beside her lips. I settle for her bottom lip.

“I want to take you out.” I pull her lip between my teeth, bathing in the way she sighs. “Properly.”

“You’re having me on.”

“Nope,” I pop. I need to banish this shy thing. Fuck the shy thing. I realise our proximity might have something to do with that, so I step away, flicking the light on so I can see her properly. 

Her cheeks are rosy and her eyes are dark and her hair is mussed and– and shit. I’m so gone on this girl. She folds her arms across her shirt, and that’s when I notice the shirt. It’s my shirt – the one I gave her weeks ago, the band she claims to hate, the shirt I’ve dreamt about fucking her in ever since. 

The shirt which now rests just below her bra. 

“Oh,” she clocks my thought process – probably because I’m staring at her chest – and fumbles with the messy hem. “Shit, sorry. I never even asked if you wanted it back–”

“Never.” I murmur.

A pause. “What?”

I blink back to reality, back to her eyes. “I never wanted it back,” I clear my throat, try and regain some conviction, “the band sucks anyway.” I wink, she chuckles.

God, maybe we should just stay here. We could order room service and continue our theme of fucking in hotel showers and spend all night getting sweatier and sweatier in between the sheets and–

No! No. I need to take her out. 

“Be ready by seven.” 

I bend to pick up her shopping, handing it back. Charlie takes the bags slowly, looking at me like I just told her my name’s actually Bill.

Then, softly, nearly meekly, she whispers, “I thought we had rules?”

My lungs stop working. “We did. We do.”

Right – I’m not even considering her right now. I know what I want, and I know I want it badly. I need to learn I can’t just demand this. Sure, I’ve waited six years, but she sure as shit doesn’t know that.

Patience is a bitch.

She looks at me, scrutinising, studying. I want to read her mind, it seems to all work so complicated up there. A million bolts and cogs working tirelessly; I’d give it all up for just a peek. 

“I suppose I’d be pretty stupid to deny we’re at least friends at this point, right?”

I can breathe again. “Right.” I rush to say.

“So… dinner as friends. Yeah?”

“Absolutely.” No, fuck no. “Bonding time.”

She purses her lips, seemingly amused. Nodding, she swivels from the door, palm wrapped around the handle and about to let me stand in my room and punch the air but…

“You sure you don’t want me to help you out first?”

Her eyes flicker accusingly at my crotch. Specifcally, my hard on, from just kissing the girl.

It’s like I’m fucking fifteen again.

I snort, pushing my tongue against my cheek to stop the habitual impulse to say something inappropriate. I want to scream yes, God, yes but I can’t. Charlie’s like some kind of kryptonite – one handjob will turn into one blowjob will turn into round after round after round.

“I’m good, love.”

Charlie scowls. “You’re really just going to try every nickname in the book, aren’t you?”

“That’s the plan, sweet pea.”

“You’re ridiculous,” she swings the door open, so before it slams behind her I shout a reminding,

“Seven!”

And then I stand in my room, and punch the air. 

“Jesus, Styles, this place is fancy.”

I smirk. “Only the best for a princess.”

“Hey–”

“I’m kidding! Here,” I let go of the small of Charlie’s back to pull her chair out for her, “sit, before you hit me.”

“I can still reach you from over here.”

I playfully roll my eyes as I take my seat. She definitely can. I made sure to get us a table hidden away, close enough for our legs to accidentally tangle and far enough away from anyone else Charlie doesn’t need to worry about people.

She’s always panicked about mobs. The first one was pretty traumatic I guess, and ever since she’s been the overly cautious one in public. Never seen without heavy glasses and an even heavier hoodie, so I made sure she wouldn’t be spending our first date (that is what I’m declaring that is, friends or not) in fear.

It’s not conceited if saying your name for a last minute res at one of the most established restaurants in Bolonge works. Fame has it’s perks, I’m allowed to admit that.

… I think.

Within a few seconds, a waiter comes over with a bottle of red I preorded on the phone. Charlie leans back, looking at me quizzitivley as he pours us both a glass and leaves the rest between us. We thank the waiter, and I gauge her reaction.

A pause. My heart awaiting a beat.

“I’m impressed.” She raises her brows, a glimmer of a smile on her rouge lips.

“Good,” I lift my glass, clinking it against hers before we both take a sip.

I let my eyes properly roll over her for the first time since I met her outside the hotel. It was too dark and too much of a rush to the car for me to drink her in, and God. She looks fucking edible. She’s wearing a strapless dress that lets my wind wander to every inch of skin I can kiss with her still in the thing – but, Jesus, stop. 

Tonight isn’t about that.

Quiet falls on us, because, well. What do we talk about if not for the security of sex or argument, if not for the safety net of anyone else around us? Here, we’re uninterrupted. In fact, no. We’re not anything.

We’re two people on a first date. We’re fresh.

“You know,” Charlie chuckles to herself, setting her glass down and leaning on her palms, “I love trying to figure out the other people at restaurants like this. Like, okay, that couple,” she nods behind me, so I try and turn as discreetly as I can. She hits my leg. “Don’t be so obvious!” She hisses behind a smile.

I’ve just gone and made things worst myself by taking Charlie out, haven't I?

“That couple is on their first date, and he’s trying to figure out how to leave.”

“And how do you know that, Sherlock?”

Charlie shrugs and leans back to take another sip.

“I know people. He’s fidgeting like crazy, looked at the bathroom like five times in the past thirty seconds. For sure planning his escape.”

“Or he just really needs a shit.”

Charlie snorts into her glass, spraying wine onto her cheeks. I guffaw, and both of us fall into laughter too loud for an establishment like this. “Fuck, my makeup.” Charlie taps at her cherry stains aimlessly, so I lean across with my napkin.

“Here, hold still,” I chuckle, pinching her chin between my fingers and trying to get as much grapejuice from her face. In the midst of the scene, our waiter returns.

“Are you… oh.” He clears his throat, and we pause to look up.

“We might need a few more minutes.” I mumble. Charlie grins sheepishly.

Yeah, okay, maybe it is conceited – but thank God we do what we do, because judging by the compressed scowl on the guy’s face as he leaves us, we were one 0 in our bank accounts away from being kicked out.

As I’m wiping at her face, our eyes lock, and the words tumble out before I can think about what I’m saying.

“Niall’s proposing to Amelia.”

She gasps. I sit back.

Silence holds us, until a slowly whispered, “shit,” punctures it.

“Yeah.”

I see her reach for her wine. Then she downs it.

“So I told my mum Gemma was a drug dealer. Of course my mum was like, Harry, she’s nine. But it was the worst thing I could come up with at six years old.”

Charlie throws her head back at the story of myself and my sister, one of my favourite memories to relay. I stab my fork in my pasta and try and muffle my grin as Charlie giggles away.

“I never thought you’d be the type to take WWF wrestling so personally.” 

I shrug. “I was a dedicated fan. I still refuse to believe it’s staged.”

Her laughter dies, and she gets this sort of gone off look in her eyes. Like she’s thinking about something, someone, and then it hits me – I’ve been sat here reeling off stories about my sister without any regard for the fact she no longer has hers. 

“You know,” she shifts, eyes dropped to her plate. She pushes a piece of broccoli around with her silverware, chewing on her lip. Then, her voice gets quiet, small, when she admits, “I don’t think my parents have called me one time this whole tour.”

She chuckles to herself, but it’s void of any humour.

“They did their usual prayer for my safety before I left, and rang to see if I had changed my mind, but…”

I dip my head to meet her eye. She looks up at me, meekly. Like tears are threatening to spill but she’s using every muscle to hold them back. I’m so terrible in situations like this, I never say the right thing because, truthfully, people don’t often open up to me.

(Not like this, at least.)

So, I go with my gut, and pray it doesn’t betray me.

“Pretend I’m your parents.”

Charlie piques. “What?”

Confidence begins to slip from me, evident in the way I mess with my hair and twist my rings beneath the table. “Pretend I’m your parents,” I repeat – despite the out she just gave me.

“This apart of that daddy kink you were talking about?” She smiles smally. 

“No,” I lilt. “Tell me about tour. Look,” I sit up straight, bringing my hair forward and cracking my neck. Getting into character. I lift my hand to my ear, pretending to be on the phone. “Hi sweetie, how’s tour going?”

Charlie snorts. “That supposed to be my mum?”

“I’ve never met the woman, go with it.”

She rolls her eyes, but she sits up and lifts her hand, too.

“Hi mum. It’s fine.”

“Fine? Come on, you’ve been away for months.”

She sighs, giving me that look through those lashes. I lift my brows.

“It’s been amazing, actually.”

I smile. We’re getting somewhere.

“Everyone really likes our album,” she continues, “and I started banging the one with long hair you always tell me I need to stay away from.”

“Heey,” I drop the ‘phone’. She looks pointedly at my hand. I raise it again.

She heaves a breath, her expression stone again.

“I wish you’d try and understand my job a little more. I think you’d see what I’m doing is actually really cool if you took the time.”

My chest aches. I knew Charlie had a strained relationship with her parents, I just never knew why. They’d never come to shows, she would never mention them. I don’t even remember them sitting with her at Poppy’s funeral.

Maybe when Charlie blamed herself for her sister’s death, her parents did too.

“You were wrong, by the way.”

I got so lost in my own anger I forgot we were doing this.

“Wrong?” I ask. 

“About the dude with long hair. He’s actually alright.”

I couldn’t let this night end.

We practically got kicked out of the restaurant when we wound up being the last two in there, and then we stumbled our way to my hotel room and have been laid on the bed giggling over nothing for the last hour.

Red wine is strong shit.

So far, I’ve learnt Charlie hates the colour purple, secretly loves 90s horror and sometimes worries she made a mistake by going to that audition six years ago.

“I just want a dog, y’know?”

“You can have a dog.” I laugh.

“No, no,” she flips, her hair messily cascading her shoulders as she hovers above me. I let the wine guide my hand, tucking a strand or two behind her ear. She leans into my palm. “I want a dog, and a spouse, and a kid.”

I caress her cheek, and then she lays her face completely on my chest. I freeze, watching in awe as she shifts so her legs hang off the bed and her head is on the spaces were my shirt gives way to my skin. Charlie tilts her head, closing her eyes when my fingers find home on her scalp.

I just want this, I want to scream.

“What?”

Fuck. Wait. Did I not think that?

The domestic bliss lasts all of ten seconds before she’s sitting up again.

I’m at a loss for words. I’m sure she’s going to leave, that I just fucked up this whole night, but then she’s climbing a top of me. My hands instinctively fly to her thighs, holding her close through the silk while she assesses me from above, her hair a curtain.

“You want friends with benefits forever? That’s your end goal?” She sounds amused, so I can’t tell if she’s being serious or not. I want to shout, is that all I am? Even after today, after everything?

I’m better at holding in my thoughts this time, though.

“You really think we can ever be friends?”

Then, she sighs and straightens. Her hair no longer tickling my neck.

“Jesus, you’re confusing. I thought that was why you took me out in the first place!”

This girl will be the death of me.

“Okay, Charlie,” I sit up, gripping her waist to pull her against me. I feel her chest huff out against mine in three quick, fluttering motions. “Let me be crystal clear,” I cradle her face, now, just brushing her bottom lip. She leans into my touch again, and I feel every ounce of self-doubt fade away with the sigh she lets out. I knock my nose against hers.

“I want you more than I’ve ever wanted anything in my life.”

Charlie rushes to say, “You have me,” whilst fisting at my shirt.

As much as I want that to be true, I know she doesn’t believe those words in the same way I want to believe them. So, I stifle a breathy chuckle, shaking my head.

“I don’t think I do.” My throat stutters at the word baby. I haven’t tried that one out yet.

“What do you mean? I’m right here.”

Charlie looks genuinely confused, which I suppose is the problem. The problem I created. I pull back, sinking into her brown eyes till I’m sure I’ve turned to stone. All I’ve wanted for the last six years is to hear Charlie say those words: you have me. Yet, in this moment, I realise I’ve gone about all of this completely wrong.

“I want a redo.” I barely whisper, insecure in my words.

“A redo?”

I quickly lick my lips. “Of everything.” I thumb at her jaw. “I fucked it all up, Charlie.”

“Fucked what up?” She deadpans, clearly tired of my inexplicability.

“You. Me. Us. This.” 

Charlie shorts out a huff, as if she’s finally got it.

“We didn’t know this would end up happening–”

“I knew.”

I let my confession barrel before me. If I scare her off, then fuck it. I scare her off. But she needs to know. She needs to know that,

“I’ve wanted you since we were sixteen and you shouted at me for being late to our first recording. I knew the minute you stood there in your stupid scarf and your even stupider boots that I was going to have it bad for you and I’ve not known what to do with it since.”

Charlie looks startled, but she’s unmoving from my lap, so I take it as a sign to keep going.

“I thought that you’d always hate me,” my throat swells, “so I’ve been a prick to you and I… especially after Zayn, I just didn’t…” I shake my head, looking down, losing myself.

It’s the wine, that’s all that’s fuelling this sudden, dumb confession. The wine and the fact that right now my best friend is probably engaged. But, then...

Charlie lifts my chin.

Charlie hesitates.

Charlie’s eyes flick back and forth between mine.

Charlie kisses me.

I kiss back with force, pouring everything I couldn’t say into her lips. I hold the back of her head, moaning against her tongue as she pushes me back to the pillow and grips my shirt so hard it pulls nearly painfully against my back.

And then she stops.

“Zayn told me after Amsterdam he loves me.”

Just found the quickest way to kill a boner.

“Oh.” Is all I can say, apparently.

“But I don’t…” she trails off, her eyes dropping to my lips. “I don’t love him.”

“Okay.” I whisper. 

My insides are having a fucking party, right now.

“That doesn’t mean I love you.” She rushes to clarify. I smile.

“I know.”

“But you are the first person I think about when I wake up. And when I go to sleep. And while that’s confusing because most of the time you piss me off, you don’t seem to do that anymore.”

I try not to sound so excited as I respond. “At all?”

“I mean, don’t push it.”

I chuckle, brushing her hair from her face. But then a dreadful pit starts to hole its way through my stomach, and I have to ask,

“You’re not just saying this because you want a dog?”

Charlie smiles against my lips. “I want you, Harry.” One sweet, chaste kiss. “I’m not thinking about the dog right now.” 

I lean up to kiss her, flipping her onto her back. My hand slips under her dress, and her breath hitches. “Good,” I breathe against her mouth, rubbing her over her knickers. Her gasp travels to the back of my throat, and I swallow it, keep it, store it, run it over and over in my mind as I push her pants to the side and curl my middle finger in her.

“Stay the night?” I ask, adding my index finger.

“Oh,” Charlie moans, her head tipping back. I kiss her throat, “yes.”

“Yes, you’ll stay the night?” I nip at her neck, losing myself in vanilla and Merlot.

“Yes, Harry,” she pulls my face up, “just assume from now on I will always– fuck, stay the night.”

I grin. Her nails dig into my nape as I pull my fingers out and rub her clit. 

“God, like that,” she breathes as I push my finger down harder, tuning myself to every gasp and moan she gives me. I kiss her through her orgasm, muffling her cries with my mouth despite wanting the entirety of Italy to hear how pretty she sounds when she comes.

“Always so good for me, baby.” I murmur, gripping her thigh as I shift my weight and move her core to my own thigh, still covered by the overpriced trousers I asked Amelia to find for me. She bucks her hips, capturing my bottom lip between her teeth. I whimper.

“Baby,” she breathes questioningly. “I like that one.”

taglist: @lilfreakjez @be-with-me-so-happily @sirtommyholland @tpwksm @b-reads-things @tiaamberxx @daphnesutton @mleestiles

[neondiamond]

🌹 Recently Read Fics - February 2023 🌹

These are all the amazing fics I read over the past month (from shortest to longest). Don’t forget to leave kudos and comments to show the authors your appreciation if you read any of these! 💗

🌹 Guitar Cutie by @beelou (632, G)

Niall owns the only lesbian bar in town, but she’s still single. Until a new act walks in for open mic night.

🌹 Melting into You by @beelou (1k, T)

The front door to their house closes and Liam sighs with a smile, He turns to Zayn standing next to him and kisses him on the lips. “A whole weekend to ourselves. Can you believe it?”

“It doesn’t quite seem real, but it is.” Zayn says, going in for another kiss.

“It’s still early. Our reservation isn’t for another four hours,” Liam gets in between kisses. Zayn pushes him against the door. “What are we gonna do?”

“Oh, I have some ideas,” Zayn says, moving down to kiss Liam’s neck.

🌹 happy birthday haz by @laurelsmybeloved (1k, T)

He looks at the time, just after ten in the morning. “We’ll eat, and then gifts, and then blowjob. Then some cuddles.” Louis smiles at Harry, who’s watching Louis softly and leaning against the counter. “Sound good?”

🌹 Your First Words (Have Yet To Be Said) by @whenyoucallmelover (1k, G)

the one where harry just wants to be a mom and, luckily, he picked someone who was supportive.

🌹 Chase by @wabadabadaba (1k, E)

Carefully, Louis stalked through the forest, searching for Harry. A moving cloud allowed the moonlight to shine just right to reflect off of the gorgeous green eyes of her omega. Harry was attempting to hide behind a tree; she was crouched down with her front paws and chest on the ground, her hind legs bent, with her tail swishing behind her like a puppy. Louis couldn't wait any longer to have her.

or, Louis and Harry play a game of chase during the full moon.

🌹 count me in by @disgruntledkittenface (3k, NR)

Zayn wants to propose to Harry, but she can’t find the right ring. Niall and Louis are no help at all.

Actually they help a lot.

🌹 I could be lucky by @djtommotomlinson (3k, G)

Harry finds a phone in the back of a taxi and then he finds Louis Tomlinson, but he assumes they won't meet again. Which would have probably been the case if Louis didn't leave his passport in the bakery he works at just a day later.

🌹 when we’re finished saying nothing by @disgruntledkittenface (3k, M)

Louis has barely woken up when she realizes that Harry is still mad from the night before. The silent treatment that Harry prefers when she’s like this isn’t going to achieve anything, so Louis gets up to apologize only to find out there’s more going on with her mate than she thought. That’s when her instincts take over.

An alpha/alpha AU inspired by Written All Over Your Face.

🌹 I Choose You by @disgruntledkittenface (3k, NR)

Louis is exhausted during a busy time at work. After a long commute home, the last thing he expects is for Harry to have a surprise for him.

🌹 14/09/2019 by @mediawhorefics (4k, G)

In mid-September, Harry comes home.

A Tired Tired Sea Coda.

🌹 Unplant by @hellolovers13 (4k, M)

Please do not disturb my plant. She needs 2 hours of sunlight a day and I live in a sunless flat. I’ll be back to collect her soon. Thank you and stay well.

or

Louis should've looked where he was going, then he wouldn't have to desperately try to save a little flower now.

🌹 Here For You by @chloehl10 (10k, T)

It’s Harry and Louis’ first Valentine’s Day as a couple, and Harry can’t wait to enjoy the day with his boyfriend.

But fate has other plans when Harry’s cold forces him home from work, and he’s laid up for the most romantic day of the year…

🌹 Wed’n Walk (Or, We Went to Amsterdam Together) by @hellolovers13 (11k, E)

When Harry had first started planning his honeymoon to Amsterdam, he had not envisioned ending up there with his best friend.

Or getting fake-married to him for 24 hours.

🌹 Take A Chance by @wabadabadaba (35k, G)

Harry and Liam used to be married and after the divorce Harry decides to move close to Liam so their daughter can still have a relationship with Liam. After months of isolation, Liam urges Harry to attend a wlw event and meets Louis, who not only gives her much needed friendship but the love and acceptance she craves.

🌹 Of Mates and Men by @bananaheathen (630k, E)

In which, Louis and Harry meet as best men for their best friends' wedding... well... sort of.

Or, the one where Harry's just moved back from New York and Louis doesn't believe in romance.

Or, I guess... the one where Zayn and Liam are getting married.

[kingsofeverything]

My dramione loving ass is definitely down for some famous/famous Tom Felton Emma Watson if you’re still willing to share! I hope it involves a skateboard board ride because that Instagram post STILL haunts me

omggggggggg ok so the plan does definitely include that and the famous jeep pic but i haven't written it. so far it's just pretty much a carbon copy of the interview where emma's like "oh yeah i had a crush"

funnyish story, but i was thinking of trying to combine this with my other famous/famous wip where harry's a dick lol but i haven't put much thought into it. anyway here it is!

Traffic in LA is maddening. Louis sighs as he finally pulls into his garage, exhausted from a long week on set. Adjusting to the drive is rough. Maybe Zayn was right and he should pay a driver so he can nap on the ride home. 

At least the weather’s nice. As he’s done every day since moving to California, Louis strips out of his clothes, pulls on a pair of trunks, and dives into the pool in his backyard. He swims laps until his arms and legs feel like noodles, then lifts himself up on the side of the pool and sits there catching his breath. After shaking some of the water from his hair, and tipping his head side to side to clear it from his ears, he climbs to his feet and wraps a towel around his waist. 

On the way to the shower, he checks his phone, finding a text from Niall telling him to watch Graham Norton—which he always records. As soon as he’s washed and dried and dressed again in his softest sweatpants, he turns on the television, but before the show can start, Niall calls again. 

Rolling his eyes, Louis answers, “Neil?”

“Lewis.” Niall scoffs and asks, “Skip ahead to Harry's bit.”

“What?”

“Graham Norton. Harry’s on. Skip ahead to his interview.”

“Harry?”

“Styles.”

“Oh!” Louis chuckles quietly, and fast forwards while he talks. “Thought you meant Prince Harry. Harry Styles. Haven’t seen him in— There he is.” Beautiful. He’s grown into his features and he’s cut his hair, but he’s still obviously Harry. 

“Right, mate. Talk to you later,” Niall says, and hangs up before Louis can say goodbye. 

Louis frowns at his phone, but turns up the volume to listen to Harry's interview.

“Does it bother you? Still being asked about the Super Series?”

Shaking his head, Harry replies, “No. Not at all, actually. I wouldn’t be here if not for those movies. And I know they’re… They're important to a lot of people in a lot of ways. They’re important to me. If, in twenty, fifty, a hundred years I’m remembered for playing a teenage superhero, I’d be thrilled. Happy to be remembered at all, actually.”

“That’s a good way to look at it.” Graham smirks and, “Just one more thing about it then. You’ve said that the Super Series was pivotal for you with regards to your sexuality. Is this because of the fans and the, erm… shipping?”

Louis sits back on his couch, watching as Harry laughs and shakes his head. They haven’t seen each other in years. After the movie series wrapped, they were all off doing their own thing—different movie projects, television shows, guest spots, magazines, charities. Liam even moved back to Wolverhampton and worked as a volunteer firefighter, though that was kept secret for the few months he did it, so none of the fans would become arsonists in an effort to meet their favorite superhero. But the boys all kept in touch, except for Harry. He disappeared completely from Louis’ life, and until a few years ago, he thought Harry just didn’t want to be connected to the movie series or his co-stars. Turns out he just didn’t want to be connected to Louis. 

“Nothing to do with shipping, no. I was very young when we first started, you know. But I think everyone remembers their first crush, don’t they? Only I’d never thought about it. We were a few weeks into filming and I quite suddenly had a crush on a boy.” The audience whoops and hollers and Harry frowns, but clears his expression immediately. “I didn’t know I was gay at the time, so it was a bit jarring. At first I thought I just wanted to be him, so I tried.”

“Oh. Been there, mate.” 

“Yeah. Bought myself a skateboard and helmet and knee pads and everything. Would’ve cut my hair like his, but it was in the contracts that we had to keep the same hairstyle.”

Louis leans forward, studying the telly as if that will help him understand what Harry is talking about. 

Graham Norton laughs. “A skateboarder? I’m sure the fans have probably figured this out already, but enlighten me.”

“Oh, sorry,” Harry says, covering his face with his hands. “I had a horrible crush on Louis Tomlinson. For the first few films actually. It was terrible.”

“Oh, no. Did Louis know you had this crush on him?”

“Oh, yeah. It was obvious. It was so obvious. Everyone knew. I asked him to teach me to skateboard. He was always so sweet—nothing like a villain in real life—and he did try to teach me, but I was hopeless.”

Louis sits there blinking at the screen. He remembers it then—little Harry, a Harry that was shorter than Louis was, with round cheeks and out of control hair stuffed under a helmet. Aside from tutors, the studio had to provide them all with things to do in their down time, and he had begged for a half-pipe. They’d settled with letting him skateboard in the back lot with a few small ramps as long as he promised to practically wrap himself in protective gear. He and Zayn spent most of their free time out there. And Harry joined them once or twice, pushing himself along on his brand new board while keeping one foot a half-inch off the ground. Louis tried to show him how to tick-tack, but as soon as Harry got both feet on the board, he panicked, jumped off, and that was that. He stopped coming around. But Harry hadn't had a crush on him. Or at least, it wasn’t as obvious as he seemed to think it was. Louis had no idea. Besides, they were children. 

He tries to tune in and listen to the rest of the interview. Harry talks passionately about his charity work and what he’s doing in the UK involving LGBTQ+ youth. But Louis’ mind keeps drifting back to the almost decade long working relationship they had while filming the Super Series, wondering when the crush faded, and when Harry decided that Louis wasn’t worth keeping around for even friendship, especially since he talks of their past so fondly. Finally, he gives up and turns the telly off, calling Niall again.

Niall doesn’t answer with a greeting, just says, “Harry and Louis sitting in a tree—”

“Shut up, Ni. I had no clue about any of that. Did you?”

“Nah. But it’s Harry. He flirted with everyone before he knew what flirting was. Think it’s just his personality.”

“Well, thanks for the heads up. I’m sure that’ll be a talking point when I’m on the Late Show next week.”

When he goes to New York for The Tonight Show, it’s the first thing Jimmy asks him about and all Louis can do is tell the truth. No, he didn’t know about Harry’s crush, but they were practically babies back then. All he remembers is being worried about his hair and his spots and whether he’d get any taller. 

He fields the question at all of the other interviews to promote his new show, and by the time James Cordon asks him about it, he’s tired of the question. Unlike the other repetitive talking points, this one starts to bother him and a part of him wants to respond to Cordon’s follow up about whether he and Harry have discussed it with the truth. Which is that they haven’t spoken in years. But he knows that would only lead to more drama and more questions and he’s not up for that. Thankfully, Late Late is the last stop on his short promo tour. 

On the way home in the back seat of the car he hired for the day, his phone rings. An unknown number. Of course, he dismisses the call, but they leave a voice message, and as soon as he sees the beginning of the transcript, he listens to it. 

“Heyyyy this is Harry Styles. Wanted to apologize for the trouble I caused you. Call me if you can.”

[tomlinsins]

i’m sorry you feel like shit bby, hugging you so hard right now 🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂🫂

for the prompts, hl arguing and crying, it can be about anything. maybe some hurtful words are exchanged, which they later regret but in the moment they can’t think straight so they’re said

Angsty Drabbles!

“I left as soon as I could, Lou. I am so sorry! David decided to order drinks after dinner. I had to spend the entire time schmoozing with those-” Harry rushes out as soon as he opens the door to Louis’ dressing room.

“Save it Harry.” Louis cuts him off as he packs up his vanity. “It’s not like this is the first time. Part of me never even expected you to be here.”   

“It’s not my fault Lou. I couldn’t just leave. David was the one-”

“Can you stop making excuses for yourself? It is always something! It’s been years since you stopped showing up! You knew it was my first time as the lead and yet you couldn’t bother leaving a stupid dinner early when this night was planned for months. It’s like you don’t even care!” Louis’ voice breaks and tears threaten to spill. 

Harry is taken aback seeing the moisture in his eyes and softens his voice, “Of course I care, Lou.”

“Oh really? When was the last time you showed up to any of my performances? It’s like you’ve stopped trying and I'm the only one making efforts in this relationship.”

“Oh come off it Lou!” Harry can’t help but scoff. “You know my work is important and sometimes I have to stay up when there’s meetings and I rushed here as soon as I could-”

“So you don’t think my work’s important enough to show up?”

“Don’t twist my words.We’re adults and sometimes work gets in the way of things and I said I was sorry!”

“How many times Harry? I’m tired of this.”

“And I’m tired of fighting Lou. Let me take you out to dinner.”

“No, Harry. This time we’re gonna talk about it and we’re gonna fix the problem that has become this relationship.”

“I am not causing the problem here. You’re the one blowing this up out of proportion. I have apologised and I promise to show up next time.”

“You always do but it is always the same disappointment.”

“Well, if I am such a disappointment, why don’t you just get rid of me then?”

“What…what do you mean?” Louis’ afraid of the answer. 

Without thinking Harry shouts, “Break up with me then and you’ll never be fucking disappointed again!” 

Louis is stock still and all the fight drains out of him. Shit! Harry didn’t mean that. Louis calling him a disappointment had struck a nerve and Harry had lashed out. Fuck! He had to fix this!

“Lou, I didn’t mean,” he starts slowly but Louis cuts him off.

“Get out!” Louis spits out with clenched teeth trying to reel in the emotion and tears he knows are gonna spill any moment. 

“Lou I-”

“Harry. Leave. Please.” Something in his voice pushes Harry’s legs to move and he quietly shuts the door of Louis’ dressing room. What has he done? He can’t let the love of his life slip away like this. His own tears start to spill as he falls down against the wall beside the door with his head in his hands. He couldn’t dare actually leave. 

[vodkaskys]

FANFIC REC: trans H or L

She Feels So Good (Louis knows that voice. Harry’s used that voice in his ear more times than Louis can count, said such sweet, naughty things while popping a hip out and pressing up against Louis. All while wrapping the words in that voice. That’s the voice that comes out when Harry’s in a skirt, nails done and gestures soft and flirty. That’s the voice Louis is a sucker for every time, even now when it’s coming from a prerecorded segment playing off a monitor.) (4k)

Nothing's the same as it was (save you) ( Harry gets dressed. Then Louis comes home. There's a she in there, somewhere.) (3k)

i can't wait to see what you find (Louis finds himself entering an interesting sexual arrangement with a happy, committed couple.He gets more than he bargained for.) (12k)

Everything You Do (“You like feeling like my girl?” Louis wasn’t asking just about sex.His words weren’t harsh, Harry realized. The hands on his back and in his hair were still there, still moving. Louis just sounded — he just sounded like he was asking Harry to explain.“Yeah,” whispered Harry. He hadn’t felt this fragile in Louis’s arms for as long as he could remember. Like Louis could prod him too hard and he’d shatter. Collapse into dust. But Louis kept not prodding him, not pushing him. He just kept holding him, surely, like Louis knew he wouldn't break him.) (6K)

Ever Since I Tried Your Way (In 1949 Harry left his bride at the altar, running away from the only life he'd known. When a kindhearted farmer offers him a ride in his truck and a place to sleep the two find themselves inexplicably drawn together. Isolated on Louis' farm with nobody but a field of dairy cows to intrude, the men are finally able to explore the parts of themselves they've spent their lives hiding away.) (25k)

Take from me my lace (and lipstick too heavy for summer) (Harry likes to wear lace and lipstick. Louis lets him.) (1k)

Watermelon Sugar High (Resting right between his legs, the long slice open and juicy and red and his fingers pressed just so, it looked to his wine-hazy brain like a cunt. Like it could be /his/ cunt.) (2k)

violence of my own touch (Louis hasn’t said anything, but Harry knows something is wrong. Harry’s rut had ended a few days ago, and Louis had kept him under as best as he could.) (5k)

Little Black Dress (Harry wears a Little Black Dress to a party on a dare, Louis sees him from across the room and it’s love at first sight.) (1k)

nobody knows like me (Harry does his best to cope with a secret life in the summer of '74.) (3k)

Are You Gonna Be My Girl? ("You…" Harry touches his own mouth, teasing. "You ate her pussy?""Yeah." Louis stops playing with Harry's cock and gropes his arse again, pulling his cheeks apart and pushing them back together over the thong. "Want me to eat yours?"Louis reenacts his first time, and Harry wants to be his good girl.) (7k)

you're ripped at every edge, but you're a masterpiece ( The one where Harry is soft and pretty but doesn't see it and Louis just wants to love him the way he deserves.) (50k)

Turns Out She's a Devil (In-Between the Sheets) (Louis Tomlinson, aged 27, will be found dead in a hotel room in Italy come morning. He feels this way, from how weak his knees are, how quickly his pulse is racing, the way he can't breathe . He's got his hand clutched over where his heart is stuttering against his ribs in an uneven tattoo, back pressed against the hotel room door to try and steady himself. It's all rather dramatic, really, and if he saw someone else being this overcome he'd drag them for filth. But it's not someone else, it's him that's gasping for air like a lovesick dope because that's exactly what he is.) (3k)

Love is a word, you gave it a name (After two decades in brutal show business, Louis Tomlinson is trying to restore his tranquility of mind in the peace of Northern Europe where the sun barely sets, Maria's bar is always open, and young Harry has an irresistible spark in his eyes.) (158K)

[homosociallyyours]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ME! GAN! I got lost in the sauce of manips, and I figured this could be a good gift for you...hope you're having a fabulous weekend!!

OMFG not my favorite ot3?!?!?!!!

Thank you for this and for all the joy and delight you bring me constantly!

And truly, this image makes me want a fic where Taylor played matchmaker for Louis and Harry (featuring pop punk solo artist louis and pop-country crossover mega star taylor as besties and harry as the boyband guy she's publicly dating who WILL NOT stop talking about his crush on louis-- not knowing he's good friends with taylor)

WAIT HOLD ON i wrote a lil thing

Taylor watched Harry for a moment as he stared down at his phone, engrossed in whatever he was looking at-- and listening to, possibly, since he had a single earbud dangling from his ear. She wasn't surprised he was ignoring her; from his perspective they likely didn't have much in common. Their PR romance was being done for a complicated tangle of reasons, from covering for her on and off romance with Dianna and Harry's own dalliances with men to possible musical collaborations and crossovers, depending on how things went with the public, but as far as Taylor knew Harry was likely unaware of most of what was happening on Taylor's end. She'd been doing this a lot longer.

"Is this your first PR thing?" Taylor asked, kicking at his seat when he ignored her.

"Huh?" Harry at least had the decency to look genuinely apologetic. He seemed like a sweet kid. She repeated her question, and Harry shrugged back at her. "Pretty much? Didn't have a lot of pap walks with the last one." He shoved his earbud back in his ear, and Taylor sighed, moving from her seat across from him into the one next to him. He turned to look at her, affronted.

"What are you listening to?"

"Oh-- you wouldn't have heard of him, probably," Harry said, turning his phone screen toward Taylor. She bit back a laugh at what she saw.

"Louis? I've heard of him," she said, genuinely amused that her image was well managed enough that Harry didn't realize she was a hopelessly emo punk weirdo at heart.

Harry pulled his earbud out, studying her carefully. "No shit? What's your favorite song of his?" The way he said it, so overly casual, Taylor could tell it was a test.

"Written All Over Your Face" is one of my favorites off the new album, but "Paradise" is the most underrated." She almost laughed at the genuine shock on Harry's face, and wondered for a second if it was worth mentioning that she'd actually been in the room when Louis was working on one of those songs.

"He's gay, you know," Harry said, narrowing his eyes slightly as if waiting for her to recoil in disgust. She had to force herself not to roll her eyes.

"Yeah, I know," she said, pausing for a moment to make sure that Harry wasn't just pulling her leg. "I am too, you know?"

Harry's jaw dropped. "No shit?!"

"No shit," Taylor said with a shrug.

"Me too!" His excitement was kind of adorable, at least.

"No shit," Taylor said, nodding to signal that this was not, in fact, news to her. At least Harry had the decency to blush about it.

From there, he pulled his earbuds out and spent the rest of their flight talking her ear off about being young and closeted in the industry and-- much to her amusement --about his long-standing, deeply held, and intense crush on none other than her best friend Louis Tomlinson.

She was glad she hadn't mentioned how well she knew him, because if she had then Harry probably wouldn't have shared quite so much. But given that he had, two things were clear: he was absolutely the kind of guy Louis would fall for, hard, and getting the two of them together was going to be very, very entertaining.

[fellforlou]

Here are a few of the fics I’ve read from October-December! If you decide to read any of these make sure to read the tags. I don’t want anybody to get uncomfortable. I hope you all enjoy these as much as I did. -Emma

Be Mine, For Always by zams Word Count: 1K Summary:  Louis is happy when Harry is happy. That's what Louis wants, and so when Louis starts feeling weird when Harry cuddles with Liam, Zayn, or Niall instead of him, he keeps quiet. But the burning, uncomfortable feeling Louis gets deep in his stomach when he sees Harry contentedly nuzzling Liam's neck, or Harry's arms and legs tangled around Niall like an octopus, or Harry's face smushed in Zayn's stomach as Zayn plays with his hair only gets worse as the days go by.

Breathe Me In, Breathe Me Out by lunarheslwt Word Count: 14K Summary:  Louis is drawn into a quaint candle shop in his desire to find ways to soothe himself while struggling with touch depri. It takes him two more run-ins and with the lovely alpha sales assistant, and a drop, to figure out the source of the scent that imprints upon him and calms his omega. Idiots to lovers

Last First Kiss by xxolve Word Count: 17K Summary: Where Harry goes in to take his SATs expecting a disaster, but instead meets someone he'll never forget.

Hike Up Your Skirt & Show Your World To Me by anonymous Word Count: 17K Summary: Louis has a very hands on approach to training his new secretary. How else can he make sure Harry realizes his pull potential.

Heart of Sugar, Sweet Temptation of Mine by pjinkfleur Word Count: 25K Summary: The process of courting is seriously outdated nowadays, it's not common anymore; people don’t want to go through the hassle of a proper courtship, dating is easier. Louis though, he was raised in a very traditional family, every member, down to his parents, had a courting and a mating ceremony. He grew up hearing stories about how wonderful it is, how much deeper the connection gets between a courting pair can get, and he's wanted that for himself since he was a pup, always dreaming of his alpha showing up and sweeping him off of his feet. His dreams seem to be coming true when he moves into a new building, closer to where he works, and the older alpha living in the flat in front of his own, initiates the courtship process. Everything he's ever wanted is within reach. Or is it?

Autumn Leaves Shower Like Rainbows by ioudloudlove Word Count: 29K Summary: Harry is an anonymous blogger, filling page after page about his unrequited love for a customer at the coffee shop he works in. Louis is an up and coming musician and the object of Harry's affections. They swap pleasantries but nothing more. Until one day Louis comes into the café, soaking wet and seeking solace. When Harry hears the lyrics, he realises that Louis has been reading his blog the entire time without knowing it's all about him.

Dream About A Summer Night by fearsparks Word Count: 33K Summary: Working alongside each other as camp counsellors, Harry and Louis grow closer than they’ve ever been before. That’s not a problem, but now they have these newfound feelings for each other to deal with.

Something As Simple As This by frenchkiss Word Count: 34K Summary:  Trapped in a cabin in the middle of nowhere after a blizzard derails Louis from getting home, he and the attractive stranger who owns the place have nothing to do but... well, each other. It would be a real shame if feelings got in the way, and even more of a shame if a secret about this stranger's identity turned both their lives upside down and inside out.

Hate Me To The Moon by harrystylesandstuff Word Count: 83K Summary: Harry is a sexy nerd, Louis is a great actor, and they both pretend to hate each other's guts to convince themselves they're not feeling things future step-brothers shouldn't feel.

In case you don’t see anything you like, here is a list of all the fics i’ve recommended! I hope you find something <3

[phdmama]

Happy Birthday Lauren!!

This is for my absolutely beloved @kingsofeverything​. I can’t say enough what Lauren means to me - obviously she’s incredly talented and wonderful, but I’ve been so so lucky to get to know her beyond fandom life. She’s one of my village in so many ways, and I hope you know how much I love you, Lauren! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

This is an absolute silly little thing (to be archived later on AO3 when I get to it) - based on a prompt my daughter gave me, and I hope it makes you laugh.

Larry, ~1000 words, Gen

There Was Only One...

Louis stares in consternation, chewing the edge of his thumb, bright blue fur totally ruffled as he takes it in. 

Everything else in the room is the same: same old rug with the solar system on it, same old mess of toys on the floor, same old laundry hamper shaped like a bear. The only thing that’s new is the bunk bed, where two little boys are fast asleep.

Louis hears the snick of the closet door as it closes and then there’s someone else in the room, standing next to him. He glances over. This must be the new guy.

It makes sense, of course. Louis has been Cam Wickland’s monster since he graduated from training, just as Cam moved into this room three years ago, and now that Cam’s baby brother is in a big boy bed as well, the top bunk no less! Well, it makes sense that Sean would get his own monster.

Louis has just never had to work with a partner before. This may be a problem.

“I’m Harry,” the other monster whispers and Louis gives him a look.

He’s bigger than Louis, with two arms, two legs, and green fur that is definitely curly. He doesn’t seem to have a nose but he does have three eyes arranged in a pleasing equilateral triangle so Louis figures it all evens out. All three eyes are wide as he looks around.

“Are you new?” Louis asks and Harry nods.

“I graduated yesterday, and today’s my first day.”

“Nice to meet you,” manners compel Louis to say. “I’m Louis. Bottom bunk is Cam, he’s mine. Top bunk is—”

“Sean,” Harry says. “Aged three years old, first big boy bed. Afraid of monkeys, triangles, and spinach.”

Ahh, that explains the green. And the eyes.

“So,” Harry says, “I know I’m pretty new and all, but…”

“Yeah,” Lous sighs heavily. “There’s only one under-the-bed.”

“How does this sort of thing usually get settled?” Harry asks.

Louis shrugs. “I’ve never had a partner before, so I don’t know. I don’t think they covered it in training either.”

“No,” Harry agrees. “There wasn’t anything on the final about this.”

They’re both silent for a bit.

“I think I should take it,” Harry announces and Louis frowns.

“But Cam’s in the bottom bunk,” he argues. “Technically, it’s mine.”

“But I never got to be under-the-bed before, not in real life,” Harry insists. “And how can I scare Sean from over here? You’ve had years with Cam, I just got here. You can stand in the corner and scare him from there.”

Louis doesn’t want to mention that technically, he doesn’t scare Cam anymore. Not from under-the-bed or anywhere else. They have an agreement.

So he rolls his eyes and says, “Harry, I’m a monster under-the-bed, not a monster in-the-corner.” 

“Well, so am I,” Harry says sulkily. 

There’s another moment of silence and then Louis hears it, the peculiar three-note chime that can only mean one thing.

“Inspection,” he hisses at Harry and they scramble forward at the same time, bumping into each other in their haste to get under-the-bed.

It’s a tight fit for the both of them, Harry accidentally steps on Louis’ tail and Louis accidentally knees Harry in his lovely round tummy, but just in time, they’re both crammed in under-the-bed. Clearly, Mom and Dad had vacuumed when they’d put up the beds, so it’s not even all that dusty. Louis is not sure why his throat is so dry.

The closet door opens and who should step through but Phil, oh wait. No. Mr. Brezlowski, as he’s demanded to be called since his promotion three weeks ago. Louis rolls his eyes as he takes in the clipboard and hard hat. It’s suburban Michigan, Phil. You don’t need a hard hat for a simple inspection.

Louis holds his breath as Phil wanders around, resisting the urge to growl when he gets a little too close to Cam and Sean for Louis’ comfort. Harry’s too, apparently, from the tension Louis feels in Harry’s body where he’s jammed up against Louis. Finally, he hears Phil mutter “Acceptable,” and there’s another click of the door as Phil leaves by way of the closet back to Headquarters.

Louis exhales and turns, jumping a bit because Harry’s face is right there.

“Ow,” Louis says resentfully, rubbing his head where he’s bonked it on the underside of the bed frame. He pokes Harry in the side. “You should move.”

“You should move,” Harry says stubbornly. “I was here first.”

“You were not!” Louis says, outraged. “We were here at the same time!”

“I was under-the-bed first,” Harry says stubbornly. “I should get it tonight.’

“Should not!” Louis says firmly. 

Things are threatening to devolve when there’s a soft sound from Cam, and Harry and Louis both freeze.

“Um, Louis?” Cam says and Louis closes his eyes because with how much of a stickler Harry seems to be, there’s no way he’s not going to report Louis for this. “Mr. New Monster? Can you maybe be quiet? You can share the under-the-bed. It’s nice to share.” 

His voice trails off sleepily, and Louis turns his head to find Harry looking at him, a thoughtful expression in his three grass-green eyes.

They wait until Cam’s breathing evens out, and he’s back asleep.

“He knows your name?” Harry whispers and Louis sighs.

“I don’t like scaring him,” he confesses quietly. “It’s not nice.”

“Then why are you a monster under-the-bed?” Harry asks reasonably and Louis shrugs. 

“Didn’t know what else to do when I got out of school. There was a good signing bonus. Benefits. You know.”

Harry nods. “So, how does it work? If he knows you?”

Louis says, “Well, we have a deal. About once a month or so, he pretends to have a nightmare so I don’t get written up or reassigned. Sometimes, if he can’t sleep, we’ll play real quietly.”

“That sounds nice,” Harry says wistfully. “Not having to scare him.”

Louis nods. “We could share,” he says finally. “The under-the-bed. There’s room.”

So that’s what they do. They share the under-the-bed which turns into sharing everything else, and when their boys are grown up and graduated from monsters-under-the-bed, they decide that scaring is really not for them (honestly, they’re completely out of practice), so they quit. Louis follows his dream of becoming an experimental florist, and Harry? Well.

Harry opens a bakery.

[thedevilinmybrain]

a snippet for snippet’s sake

uhh, i haven’t posted in a bit. been really busy. started a new job on top of another job. got poison ivy. i’ve been a mess but i finally got back to writing. so enjoy.

What Louis doesn’t want is the pressure of arms around him, the cut of thick muscles being thrown over his shoulder as a shock of blond hair presses into his cheek. Before Louis can even think to respond to it, the other boy is pulling back – cheeks flushed, polo all a skew around his neck. 

“Louis! Where have you been?” Aidan calls, claps a familiar hand to Louis’ shoulder. “I haven’t seen you since start of term.”

“Oh. Hey. Mate.”

It’s not Aidan’s fault. Louis should feel worse about it, he knows. Aidan is a nice guy in the way vanilla is a nice flavor when you don’t have any other options. It’s not even that Aidan is that bad looking. He’s got the body of a footie player, tall with lean muscles, a blond with blue eyes pretty enough some people might find them interesting. And Aidan is. He is. In his own way. Funny and charming and a little stale but in a safe way, Louis supposes.

But how can you even consider second place when you’ve had first? And that’s what it really is. Louis can’t be fucking bothered with anyone else when he has the best. Honestly, no one compares to Harry. No one even fucking comes close. Who is even in the same league? Louis should probably feel a bit bad about comparisons but what can he really do? There aren’t enough words to describe how top level Harry is – from his face to his eyes to his long legs and his dumb, loud laugh to the pure, kindness of his heart.

If Louis is a Christmas baby, it only makes sense that his soulmate is the angel you put on top of the tree.

Louis will never admit it out loud but he still gets butterflies every time Harry gives him that look - the scrunched nose, hidden smile, twinkle in the corner of his eyes. Louis hadn’t ever bothered thinking about monogamy, things like love and lasting through fights before Harry, and now the mere thought of waking up without Harry makes Louis’ chest tight, seized up and sharp.

There is a bond there that guys won’t understand. It’s cherry hearts and sweet kisses and watermelon highs but it’s also nasty and primal. It’s holding Harry’s curls back as he empties his stomach only to be found in the corridor twenty minutes later with Louis’ tongue down Harry’s throat. It’s not having any secrets, any boundaries, no walls up so when they’re tired and vegged out in front of Louis’ television, Harry doesn’t have to worry about eating with his hands or wiping his mouth or sucking duck sauce off Louis’ fingers. It’s wiping noses when someone is too sick to move or washing cum out of hair in the bathroom of a gas station because they got too carried away at the drive in.

They’re kinetic – intune to one another, feeding off one another, molding them way into become one until all the lines kind of blur. A hazy cord wrapping them up tight and then tighter.

tagging so you can see i’m not dead and maybe share some of your lovely, brilliant work as well: @haztobegood @twopoppies @indiaalphawhiskey @halohamilton @chaotic-bells @beelou @maggieisalarrie @non-binharry @momrryrights @polaroidlouis

[thebreadvansstuff]

"H, you've gotta keep your eyes open for me, please"

<3

Hi, anonymous! My first thought was a bit too dark, so I took things into a lighter direction if that's okay! Hope you enjoy :)

The movie has only been playing for a few minutes when Louis notices Harry scratching the side of his face from the corner of his eye. At first, he's trying to be discreet about it, using his long curls as a shield, and then scooting away from Louis, until he's on the edge of the bed.

Harry's eye has been itching since last week, but, knowing just how much he freaks out when anything or anyone comes near his eye, Louis had been the one to book an appointment with the doctor, and it took a lot of convincing for Harry to go through with it.

Louis had been right beside him, and was the one to memorize the doctor's instructions when he handed him the prescription. So, he knows that the first and most important rule is to avoid any contact with the irritated eye, and yet, Harry is already defying it.

Without taking his eyes off the screen, Louis sighs out, "I know what you're doing." Harry freezes and instantly drops his hands from his face, feeling caught.

Louis tugs him closer again, and Harry goes along with it, despite his frustrated sigh. At this proximity, Louis can feel Harry's eyelashes brushing against his cheek as he blinks rapidly and scrunches his eyes in hopes of finding relief.

In order to distract him, Louis runs his fingers through Harry's hair, simultaneously tightening his free hand around his waist. Harry seems to settle with his head on Louis' shoulder and their legs tangled together.

Their attention finally shifts back to the movie. It's an Agatha Christie film, and while her books are Harry's favorites, even the tiniest hint of violence on the screen can easily scare him. Naturally, when a gun fires on the television and Harry buries his head into Louis' hoodie, he doesn't think much of it.

However, when Harry doesn't move away and instead starts rubbing his face against the fabric, Louis starts to get suspicious. He clicks his tongue as he pulls Harry's head back with a firm grasp on the back of his curls. "You're not being sneaky."

Harry lets his head roll back against Louis' shoulder, groaning "It just itches so bad."

"Time for your eye drops then," Louis announces.

Harry's reaction is instant, widened eyes as he pulls away from Louis. "No, I'm fine! It's getting better!"

Louis shakes his head disapprovingly. "Oh c'mon now, Haz. You know the doctor said if it gets any worse, I have to give you these three times a day."

Despite Harry's whines of protest, Louis is already stretching over to the nightstand to grab the dropper. When he turns around again, Harry has scooted away from him.

Not at all discouraged, Louis shifts on the mattress, kneeling his way to Harry. "If you just stay still, it'll be over in a second!" he reasons, but Harry won't listen.

Somehow Louis manages to straddle him, but Harry covers his face with both hands, twisting around as much as he can. "C'mon, H..." He takes the dropper in his mouth, so that he can use both hands to pin Harry's down. He places them under his own knees, so that Harry can't move them.

Harry whimpers in defeat, trying to twist away one last time. "H, you've gotta keep your eyes open for me, please!" Louis instructs. When he bends down, Harry doesn't fight him, thankfully.

He's swift with his movements, doing both drops before Harry can overthink it.

"Good job, baby," he praises with a playful kiss on the tip of Harry's nose. "See you again in a few hours!" he snickers mischievously.

Send me a line, and I'll write a snippet!

[addythelarrie]

Once In A Lifetime

Intro // Part 70

"Morning." Harry says when he opens his eyes and finds Louis already looking at him.

"Hi." Louis replies with a small smile.

"You feeling better?" Harry asks, moving forward a little to bury his face in the crook of Louis' neck.

"Yeah." Comes Louis' reply while tightening his grip around the younger man.

They spend the next few moments in comfortable silence- their ankles tangled together, Louis running the tips of his fingers up and down Harry's back while the latter leaves soft kisses on the doctor's collarbone.

"You know you can talk to me right?" Harry is the first to speak when he pulls his head back to look at the doctor.

Louis nods his head slowly and swallows hard. "I know." He says softly. "I just-" he adds, but cuts himself off, wincing. "Uhm, it's not something I like talking about. So, uhm- please don't take it personal if I don't."

Harry nods in understanding, smiling softly as he snuggles back into Louis's neck. He's not going to push it. Louis will talk to him when he feels comfortable doing so. Right now he's happy just being here for the doctor.

When he leans back again, Louis has closed his eyes, but with his hand still running up and down Harry's back, the nurse knows he's awake. "What time is it?"

"Was just after five when I checked a few minutes ago. Probably around quarter past now." Louis answers, keeping his eyes closed.

"You hungry?"

"I could eat." The doctor replies opening his eyes.

"Want some pancakes?" Harry asks, pushing himself away a little to see Louis' face.

"Mhm, I'd love some, yeah." Louis replies and moves his hand to rest on Harry's hip. "I've overhead Em telling Charles the other day that you make the best pancakes."

"I do."

"So sure of yourself, huh?" Louis tuts.

"My friends don't lie." Harry replies bashfully, a dimpled smile pulling at the corners of his mouth.

"I'll be the judge of that." Louis teases, returning a smile.

Harry finds himself staring at the doctor's lips for a few seconds before he starts leaning forward and just as he's about to capture them with his own, Louis turns his head, leaving the nurse to kiss his cheek instead.

It's a little awkward, but Harry doesn't think too much of it.  They've just woken up- maybe morning breath bothers the doctor, he thinks to himself.

"Well, prepare to be amazed." Harry says, leaving another peck on the doctor's cheek before untangling their legs while pushing himself away in order to get up.

"Okay." Harry says when they step into the kitchen. "I'll need eggs, flour, milk, baking powder, sugar, oil and a pan." He adds and turns around to face Louis who only stares at him.

"I- uhm, I-" Louis chuckles. "I think I've got three of those ingredients here." He purses his lips. "The milk, sugar and eggs."

"Oh." Harry juts out his bottom lip, leaving Louis to start laughing.

"Stop pouting, love." The doctor says, poking Harry's lip with his pointer finger. "We'll go get the rest and a pan next door."

"We?" Harry asks. He's not quite sure he wants to go with and run the risk of being seen.

"Well, yeah." Louis answers like it's the most obvious thing in the world. "I just woke up. You can't expect me to remember a whole list of ingredients right now."

"It's literally flour, baking powder and oil." Harry says, popping a finger in the air for each ingredient.

"And a pan." Louis reminds, causing the nurse to roll his eyes. "Besides, I'm not a kitchen kind of guy, Harry." He adds, shrugging. "Out of everything on that whole list, I only know what the oil looks like."

Harry shakes his head. "They're not awake yet, right?"

"You scared of being seen?" Louis asks, his eyebrows knitted in confusion.

"I mean, we've only known each other for two weeks-"

"Two and a half." Louis cuts him off and the butterflies in Harry's stomach starts flapping their little wings at the sound of the doctor correcting him. He thought he was the only one counting, but apparently not.

"Two and a half weeks." Harry repeats. "Don't you think they'll think I'm a little bit forward for spending nights here?" He adds with a shrug, and Louis can't help the smile that finds its way to his lips.

"Harry, they love you probably more than they love me." The doctor says and chuckles when Harry rolls his eyes again. "Besides, this is the Tomlinson household, you won't see any of them before nine, yeah?"

"Okay."

"I have to say." Louis says while eyeing the nurse as he dishes their pancakes. "For someone who sleeps naked, you've got some pretty fancy pajamas."

Harry looks down at the brown with blue polka dots ensemble and smiles proudly. He wouldn't say it's fancy, because it's just pajamas. They're cute. Not fancy. He thinks to himself before looking over to where Louis is sitting. "I've got roommates, so I can't be walking naked around my house, now can I?"

Louis lets out an airy laugh. "If I was your roommate, I wouldn't mind." He says, sending the nurse a wink and definitely enjoying the pink flush covering the younger man's cheeks.

Harry clears his throat. "Less talking, more eating." He says, pushing over a plate stacked with pancakes.

"They look delicious."

"They are." Harry replies cheekily before cutting a piece off his own stack and popping it into his mouth, smiling when the sounds of Louis humming in satisfaction fills the room.

"Fucking hell, love." Louis chimes up after swallowing his first bite. "These are fucking amazing!" He exclaims.

"Told you." Is all Harry could manage in between his giggles.

Awkward. Stupid. Disappointed.

That's what Harry is feeling right now.

After breakfast this morning, both men had taken a shower and gotten ready for their day. It was jokes and blushing, staring and blushing, compliments and blushing, giggles and blushing... yes, it's safe to say that there was a lot of blushing- and this time around, on both sides of the fence.

But when the time came to leave, Louis had lead the nurse to the front door, and well, that's when everything kind of went downhill.

FLASHBACK

"Hey listen." Louis says turning around to face Harry when they reach the front door. "Thank you for coming over last night." He says and reaches for Harry's hands, happy when the nurse allows him to take them into his own. "It really means a lot." He looks down at their hands. "And I apologize if I was not the best of company, I just-"

"You were fine, Louis." Harry interrupts, smiling bashfully. "I'm glad you called." He assures and takes a small step forward.

Louis looks up and returns a soft smile. "Yeah, like I said. It means a lot to me." He says, gently squeezing Harry's hands, swallowing hard when Harry takes another step forward.

"And like I said, I'm glad you called." Harry says taking another step forward, his eyes darting between the doctor's eyes and lips. "You're welcome to do so anytime." He adds before leaning forward, intent on meeting Louis' lips with his own, but again the doctor turns his head at the last second and Harry's lips meets his cheek instead.

"Yeah." Louis says, letting go of the nurse's hand and keeping his head down in an effort to avoid eye contact. "We should uhm- we should probably leave." He says, pointing at the door behind him. "Don't want to be late." He adds before promptly turning around and opening the door.

Harry blinks a few times fast before a frown starts forming between his brows. Confused he wills himself to lift his feet and move forward. Did I do something wrong? Say something? He thinks to himself while mindlessly cupping his hand over his mouth and nose, breathing out only to find his breath smelling like the peppermint toothpaste he used a few minutes ago. What the fuck was that?

"Harry." He hears the doctor calling out and turns around to find him only a few feet away. "I- I'm, I'm sorry." Louis says, slumping his shoulders.

"Yeah. Me too." The nurse replies, slowly shaking his head before he turns around and gets into his car, not looking back once as he starts driving away.

END OF FLASHBACK

Harry's been successfully avoiding the doctor for most part of the morning. Whenever Louis would appear to do his rounds or check up on patients, Harry would make himself scarce. He's convinced himself it's for the better. The last thing he needs right now is another slap across the wrists for unprofessional behavior- and he's sure that with his luck something stupid just might happen again.

So when lunchtime rolls around, Harry treats Zahra to lunch in the hospital's coffee shop since he didn't bring any of his own.

"You okay?" Zahra asks when the waiter walks away after taking their orders.

"Yeah." Harry replies, giving his friend a small smile.

"You sure?"

"Yeah." Harry says. "Just a little tired." He adds with a shrug.

"So." Zahra drags the word. "You're avoiding Doc Tommo because you're tired?" She asks with raised eyebrows.

"No. I'm not avoiding him." Another shrug.

"It kind of seems like you are though." Zahra replies. "Don't think I haven't noticed."

Harry smiles. "Fine." He says and casts his eyes down. "You're right. I've been avoiding him." He admits.

"Why? Is it because of what happened on Tuesday? Because yesterday you seemed fine?"

"No, we're fine. It's not that." He assures and purses his lips for a brief moment.

"Oh, good." Zahra replies. "I'm sure the makeup sex was super hot." She adds and Harry lets out an obnoxiously loud cackle, immediately raising his hands to cover his mouth.

"Oh my God, I'm not discussing that with you." He says, giggling while shaking his head, his cheeks turning crimson faster than he would ever care to admit.

"At least I made you smile." She replies with a shrug and Harry finds himself smiling brightly indeed.

"Yeah."

"So." Zahra starts and pauses when the waiter returns with their drinks. "Why are you avoiding him then?" She asks once the waiter has left and they're alone again.

"I don't know." Harry answers, looking down at his coffee. "I just think we're too different, you know. We want different things." He shrugs again. Might as well start setting the stage for the inevitable 'breakup' that's bound to happen soon because he's definitely not going to entertain this game Louis wants to play. He thinks to himself, missing the way his friend's jaw drops at hearing these words.

"You're too different? What?" Zahra exclaims, visibly confused. "You're like- you're perfect for each other!" She adds with a slightly raised tone. "What are you even talking about? What different things? You want each other, it's clear as day!"

"Would you lower your voice!" Harry whisper shouts, looking around and apologizing to the people around them.

"Oh my God, would you stop apologizing to people you don't even know and tell me what's going on in that head of yours." Zahra complains before taking a sip of her coffee.

"I don't know." Harry shrugs. "Maybe it's because of the age gap."

"Oh shut up." Zahra says and takes another sip of coffee. "Six years is nothing. Besides, that wasn't even a problem for the last six months." Her eyes widens. "I can't believe you guys have been dating for half a year and none of the big shots even caught wind of it." She adds, shaking her head. "You two are like masters of dating under the radar."

"I don't know, Zahra. There's just no spark, you know?" Harry tries another excuse.

"Shut up!" His friend exclaims. "There is too. Even I can see it."

Harry gives up. "I- can we not talk about it? I just want to have a Louis-free lunch?"

It's quiet for a moment. "Fine." Zahra finally says. "But just so you know, I don't believe your silly little excuses, my friend. They make absolutely no sense." She adds and pulls out her phone before she starts typing away.

Harry purses his lips. He wishes he could tell his friend the truth. It would be so much better for him to not carry the burden of this lie any longer, but at the same time he also doesn't want to be called out for it. He'll wait it out a few more days, and then break the news about them going their separate ways. He thinks to himself while unlocking his own phone to start typing a message of his own.

Previous || Next

[anonymous-unicorns]

Anonymous Unicorns: A Year in Review

Anonymous Unicorns: A safe place for all you anonymous unicorns out there to post your dark, problematic and crack fics OR for any reason! Testing the waters in a new genre? Nervous about a new writing style? Unsure how a fic will be received? This is the place for you!  

This collection currently has nearly 100 fics by more than 15 writers come check it out or contribute yourself! 

As always, please read all tags for every fic before reading.  If it’s not for you, click away.  Harrassment, bullying, kinkshaming, etc is not accepted here.  

Successful breeding by Anonymous Rape/NonCon, A/B/O, Breeding, Watersports, Abusive Relationship Harry decides he doesn’t want kids yet. Louis is impatient, so he takes matters into his own hands — however it may be.

High Society Rules by Anonymous Part 2 of Seen and not Heard A/B/O, Gags, Dom/Sub Omegas are meant to be seen and not heard, But bath houses are for omegas only.

A Day at the Races by Anonymous Part 3 of Seen and not Heard A/B/O, Bondage, Dom/Sub Omegas are meant to be seen and not heard, and today is a day at the races.

Reintroduction by Anonymous Bondage, Medical Kink, Sounding, Edgeplay Doctor Styles leans back. “What your body needs is a full reset from the top down. We’ll start immediately, of course, no time like the present, but it’ll be a while before you’re really up and functioning.” He glances down at his chart. “By the time we’re done here, though, I’m sure you’re going to be as cooperative and helpful as the best of them.”

on the tip of my tongue by Anonymous Part 1 of the venom within Venom, Xenopilia, Sounding, Tentacles No one really wants to talk to Louis, his weirdness and nerdy appearance making him quite offputting in the cutthroat world of Life Foundation. Hopefully, the alien that escaped their facility will be interested in more than a friendly talk.

the green-eyed monster by Anonymous Part 2 of the venom within Xenophilia, Tentacle Sex, Office Sex 

Another Night to be Harry’s by Anonymous Genderswap, Penis in Vagina sex, Cis Girl Louis They were so compatible, Harry and her. It was why he always came back for more and why she let him. Taking things beyond sex had just never happened.

It's Time by Anonymous Sleep Paralysis, Tentacles, Oviposition, Rape/NonCon Louis has been having a problem with terrifying sleep paralysis ever since moving into his dorm room. One night, he finds out why or, more accurately, who is causing it.

sustenance by Anonymous Girl Direction, Lactation Kink, Controlled Eating When Harry signs up for a controlled science experiment she doesn't know what to expect. She knows that it promises three meals a day and a roof over her head for ten weeks, and she can't go back to the apartment she was living in with her ex-boyfriend so it's really her only option. If she survives to the end of the ten weeks, she get's $10,000 and that's enough for her to start a new life. She should have read the fine print. Upon arrival to the remote compound, she finds she's agreed to let scientists induce lactation in her and a few other women so that they can feed top of the line athletes at the height of their game and study the effects of a breast milk only diet on the adult body. At first she's horrified but she really desperately needs the money. Then, the athletes arrive.

boom, boom, don't you wanna go by Anonymous Het, Girl Harry, Exhibitionism It doesn't take much to convince Harry to participate in Lambda Sig's annual ceremony for graduating seniors. She's hooked up with a few of the brothers already anyway, as lackluster as they were. She has to have her legs and bare bottom half on display for the rest of the brothers in the senior class to see, but she's always kind of liked being played with and definitely likes being on display. She's graduating in a few weeks anyway. What's the worst that can happen? She doesn't expect contestant number fifteen to blow her mind in the first round. He doesn't let up.

Prove Your Worth by Anonymous Dragons, Bestiality, Power Imbalance, Knotting Harry had always been fascinated by dragons. When he secured a job as a stable hand for Lord Tomlinson, he finally had a chance to work up close with his favorite creatures. But one late night the mysterious lord showed him just how close he could get.

Getting Broody by Anonymous Alien Sex, Bondage, Oviposition, Blindfolds, Gags “You said you wanted to make a baby,” Louis reminds him. “I’m just giving you what you asked for.”

In Her Defence by Anonymous Original Work, Rape/NonCon

Be a Doll, will you? by Anonymous Bondage, Gags, Age Play, Kink Exploration It was after Harry accidentally walked in on him one too many times that they finally talked it out and Harry had calmly suggested that Louis might be into the idea of being a doll. “I don’t think that’s a kink,” Louis had said. “I think if it turns you on, it’s a kink,” Harry had replied.

Going Once Going Twice by Anonymous Auctions, Bondage, Cock Cages The London Blue Auction House is infamous for its omega auctions. As far as the police have ever been able to prove, everything is above ground and legal, and every omega is consenting.Harry's rut is coming soon.

Make me a dad for Father's Day by Anonymous Anonymous Sex, Breeding, Impregnation, Trans Male Character Louis wants to get pregnant and posts an ad for an anonymous encounter to make it happen. Harry answers the call to breed him with enthusiasm.

It's What You Want by Anonymous Part 1 of What You Want Rough Sex, Shower Sex, Blow Jobs Louis comes home from work to find Harry acting weird.

Want You To Want Me by Anonymous Part 2 of What You Want Rape/NonCon, Restraints Louis brings the guy he's been seeing home, only to find Harry came back early from his vacation. He is clearly not happy, and Louis has no idea why.

Want It Bad by Anonymous Part 3 of What You Want Shower Sex, Overstimulation, Manipulation Louis notices that Harry has taken an interest in him outside of their normal roommate dynamic. He's not sure how to handle his long-time crush's new feelings, if that's even what they are.

Statuesque Pleasure by Anonymous Medical Kink, Mummification, Casts, Non Consensual Bondage It looks like papier mache, Harry thinks in the beginning, feeling the wet slap of material heavy against his legs.

For the Good of the Kingdom by Anonymous NonCon Body Modification, Amputation, Power Imbalance In ancient days, kings and queens ruled together, as equals in their partnership. That hasn’t been the way of things for centuries, though, it ceased in practice long ago, because everyone knows that the selfishness of humanity makes arrangements like that too dangerous, too likely to end with one member murdering the other to obtain true reign of the kingdom.A solution had to be reached.

Rutting Stud, Free by Anonymous Bondage, Pet Play, NonCon, Humiliation And that was, apparently, okay! According to the sites he visited, bondage was the number one thing that omegas were into! It was normal for omegas to want to feel safe, secured, taken care of. In fact, society encouraged it! Having a big strong alpha to hold you down and tie you up and take care of you was, apparently, a totally good and normal thing to want! All of that fell apart, of course, a year later when Louis presented as an alpha.

The Innocents by Anonymous A/B/O, Gang Rape, Underage, Cults The family Louis is a part of is large and loving and entirely Innocent.Until he is Chosen.

A Tangled Web We Weave by Anonymous NonCon Bondage, Oviposition, Spiders Louis would much rather have not gone spelunking at all.

it's in the Contract by Anonymous Rent Boy, Bondage, A/B/O “I can’t make rent this month,” Harry says. “Awesome,” says Mitch. Mitch is the house leader. He’s the one leading the house meeting. “Free your schedule on Friday, Phi Sigma Kappa are coming over for game night anyway. Harry swallows, nodding. “Alright,” he says. Harris puts a hand on his thigh. “Hey,” he whispers into Harry’s ear. “I’d pay at least thirty for you.” Harry snorts. “Thanks,” he says. “Good to know I’m an expensive bitch.”

An Evening Wrapped Tight by Anonymous Part 7 of Wrapped DubCon, Sex Pollen, Bondage Louis is a witch, and Harry is the human he claims. “Hey,” Louis says with a frown, his fingers bruisingly tight around Harry’s arms. “What’s going on? Are you okay?” Sluggishly, Harry realises that his eyes are just a bit moist. Embarrassed, he awkwardly attempts to wipe them on his arm but his muscles are all floaty and off and he sort of hits himself in the face. When he tries to form a word, goes for tired, all that comes out is a mumbled “Tai’d”. Alright, okay,” Louis says, his voice suddenly significantly softer. “Change of plans. Sounds like you need a night of pampering.”

A Swap Wrapped Tight by Anonymous Part 8 of Wrapped Cock Cages, Gags, NonCon Bondage, Body Swapping Louis is a witch and Harry is the human he's claimed.The first thing Louis picks up from the pile is a silver cock cage. Harry sleeps in his pants, so Louis stands up and shimmies out of them, throwing them into the pile of clothes he’s just pulled the box from. Again, he’d love to really explore Harry’s body right now, take that cock in hand and find out what it feels like when Harry has a wank, but the spell doesn’t have that long of a time span and he doesn’t want a job half-done.

Anything can Happen in the Woods by Anonymous Elves, Goblins, Gags, Sex Slave “Don’t go into the deep woods”, everyone always said. It was one of the first things Louis was taught as a child; don’t go in so far as you can’t see the edge any longer. Don’t go where the trees are so thick that only moss and lichen grow on the trunks. Don’t wander too far down the path. Many things make their homes in the woods, many who will see you dead and many who will never let you leave. Stay in the clearings and stay on the path. Don’t go into the deep woods.

Thank the Goddess by Anonymous NonCon Bondage, Sexual Slavery, Kidnapping, Auction Treasure chests are gifts from the goddesses. Literally. Depending on who left it, they might contain magically strengthened weapons or armor, healing elixirs, or imperishable food. Anything would be a boon right now, and Harry kneels down in front of the chest in excitement.

bound and used by Anonymous Rape/NonCon, Cock Rings, Electrostim, Sensory Deprevation Louis wakes up bound and deprived of his senses. That is the least of his problems when it all starts to happen, used by too many dicks to count.

The Perfect Donor by Anonymous Blood, Needles, Mind Control Harry Styles considers himself a giver. He loves to help people whether it's to point them in the right direction, retrieve an item off of the top shelf at the grocery store, or helping out at a soup kitchen— he loves the feeling of giving. One thing he has yet to do is give blood. He loves the idea behind it, but he only has one problem: he’s terrified of needles. The idea of having a gigantic needle stabbed into his arm while blood comes pouring out it enough to make him gag. Nevertheless, he gathers up the courage, drinks a lot of water so the nurse can find a vein, and goes to the nearest blood drive.

Thank you, Pastor Tomlinson by Anonymous Religion Kink, Cock Cages, Punishment, Age Difference, Abuse of Authority Harry took in a breath. Giving up orgasms wasn’t part of his plan, but if it was the only way, then he would have to obey and follow the plan guided by Pastor Tomlinson. “Orgasms are not allowed. The cage will prevent erections and it is up to you to train your mind away from thoughts that cause them. Weekly you will come to me for spiritual counselling to monitor your progress. If you fail to respond, there are more aggressive measures we can take.” Or: Harry can't stop watching gay porn. He goes to his pastor for help.

You’re Perfect (I made you that way) by Anonymous Body Modification, Amputation, NonCon Bondage Louis Tomlinson is the best man at his best friend’s wedding. Harry Styles is the other best man. They get off in the church coat closet. Well, one of them does.

Offerings for the Drake by Anonymous Dragons, Age Difference, Oviposition, Eggpreg "The Drake is our protector. He is our guardian. He is our king when human kings failed us. He is noble of heart and pure of soul. He is as old as the valley. He gives us everything and in turn we must sacrifice some things for his kindness." Louis has lived his whole life protected by the great beast in the mountains. Every season, the village offers a sacrifice for their protection. This season requires a very special sacrifice.

A Collection Most Pleasing by Anonymous Bestiality, Unicorns, Magic Harry and Louis travel to a remote location to collect more of the secret ingredient for his Pleasing beauty products.

welcome home by Anonymous Bestiality, Knotting, Phone Sex Louis hates leaving Harry every single time, but at least he has man's best friend waiting at home.

Tinder Dates Gone Wrong by Anonymous Bestiality, Self Discovery, Misunderstandings There’s a code online when you want to meet up with another person for the express purpose of meeting their pet. Louis knows the code. Harry does not. He learns though.

Ya Filthy Animals by Anonymous NonCon Bondage, Duct Tape, Mummification Harry should’ve known better, really. He’s never, never been good at poker. Everything shows on his face like an LCD display. He can’t lie for shit. Truly, he doesn’t know how he’s survived any interview the band has ever done, he’s so bad at lying. But Niall wanted to play strip poker. He got out a bottle of wine and said Harry please, it’s Christmas, let’s do something fun. Or, Harry, Louis and Niall play strip poker. Niall wins. Harry and Louis get a punishment.

The Duke's Gift by Anonymous A/B/O, Sexual Slavery, Rape/NonCon, Forced Bonding The Duke of Cheshire's gift has not arrived in time for Christmas.

How to Beat Burnout by Anonymous NonCon Bondage, Forced Orgasm, Gags When Harry’s coworkers told him that he was, under no uncertain terms, not to work overtime, he hadn’t thought much of it.But the janitor is very convincing.

Always (displayed for) You by Anonymous Master/Pet, Collars, Cock Cages, Voyeurism In the corner sits a large pink dog bed, extra plush with a warming element in the cushion. Next to the bed, on one of the thick metal poles that holds the stage up, the end of a leash is locked to it, the lock going through a hole drilled in the pole. It’s always the same corner, always the same pole. The leash is connected to a wide black collar that sits snugly around the neck of Louis Tomlinson.

King Lake by Anonymous NonCon Drug Use, Kidnapping, Bondage They call it King Lake because it’s like the king cake — everyone parties on the shore at the edge of the lake and one special prize is floated around until it lands on the shore in front of a lucky waiting fraternity member.Louis is stuck in a pool float on King Lake.

[hlficlibrary]

hiiii. do you happen to have some gay awakening recs? thank u xx

Hi, anon! Here are some gay awakening fics below! Enjoy!

Saw It In Your Eyes by @taggiecb

Harry Styles counts himself extremely lucky that he has landed such a great roommate. It doesn’t bother him at all that his new roommate is gay. In fact, they get along so well that they have formed an extremely close friendship that takes up pretty much all his free time. When Louis starts bringing a new guy home with him, Harry is surprised by how much it bothers him. Is he not as okay as he thought he was with Louis’ sexuality?

Or the one where Harry is an oblivious walnut.

Heading for Limbo by @kingsofeverything

Childhood best friends who’ve fallen in and out of touch with each other since Louis’ family moved away when they were thirteen, Harry and Louis find their paths crossing again and again. Each time, no matter how many miles apart or how many years it’s been, it’s as if no time has passed. They fall back into their easy friendship, until life intervenes and sends them on their separate ways once more.

When Harry discovers some life-changing things about himself, Louis is there for him, however he needs. But it’s all temporary because Louis has plans that will move his life from New York all the way to L.A. and the distance isn’t the only thing between them.

The pieces of their twice broken hearts are scattered from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

The Orchards of Jessop by @jaerie

At age 40, there isn’t much excitement in widower Louis Tomlinson’s life, but wasn’t that the reason he’d moved to Jessop Island in the first place? Back then he hadn’t thought retiring before he reached 30 and moving to the countryside would mean that he’d be doing it alone. Now, just to fill the space, he welcomes lodgers into his home that pass through working as temporary labourers at the orchards just up the road. They’ve all been young adults eager to start lives of their own after one last summer of freedom.

All of them have been much the same, coming and going from Louis’ house with just enough social interaction to keep the house from feeling so empty. But when a global pandemic shuts down the world, being quarantined with a quiet twenty year old who keeps to himself might turn out to be an awkward arrangement. By the time the restrictions have been lifted, their relationship has developed into something Louis isn’t quite ready to give up. With their twenty year age difference, Louis has to be prepared for the inevitable outcome when the reality shatters the private world they’ve been living in. He’s not sure he’ll be able to let it go.

some evening in springtime by delsicle / @eeveelou

Fresh out of veterinary school, Louis moves to a sleepy small town in Texas to take over the local animal clinic. But his new life is quickly interrupted by a middle aged rancher with a bad leg and a mysterious past, who really needs Louis's yoga skills.

Waiting for Wonderful by QuickedWeen / @becomeawendybird

The university class where he met Louis was the beginning of the end for Harry. It took all of an hour for him to figure out that he was in love with Louis, and there was no way around it. It was a part of his DNA; he was tall, he had green eyes, and he was in love with Louis Tomlinson. Louis was his soulmate, and they were going to be together. Eventually.

Harry is willing to wait as long as he needs to for his best friend to realise that they're supposed to be together, but it kills him to watch Louis struggle in his relationship with Mackenzie. All Harry wants to do is be supportive, and sometimes that's all it takes.

Passing By by Larry_you_know / @larryyouknow

Sometimes, people are in each other's lives just for the briefest of moments. They meet and then go their separate ways because being vulnerable is scary and it might be easier to not let anybody else in. But some people aren’t meant to be just passing by. Maybe when they open their eyes, they can learn things about themselves they haven’t known before. If they let their hearts speak they will find a way to be together.

Or the one where Harry doesn't even know he's into guys until he meets Louis on a boat trip. There's something more to their friendship but it ain't gonna be smooth sailing.

[starlingflight]

James Sirius’ First Display of Magic

It was a small gathering by Weasley standards. Arthur had been simply delighted by the Muggle barbecue gifted to him by Harry and Ginny as a late birthday present and had immediately sought to try it out. 

Molly, possessing years of experience with Arthur's experiments had insisted on forgoing the invitations to the rest of the family until she could be certain he knew how to work the contraption now taking pride of place in The Burrow's back garden. 

Harry had offered to take the kids home for dinner, but Arthur had been adamant that he, Ginny and the kids stay and appreciate the gift they had given him. 

"I think dinner's going to be a while," Harry muttered to Al as he settled beside him on the picnic blanket Ginny had laid on the ground only a few minutes ago. 

The news didn't seem to concern Al who was much too busy picking up sticks and twigs from the grass beside them and comparing them before throwing away the ones which, Harry assumed, had been deemed unworthy.

A bottle of butterbeer floated across the garden, coming to a stop in front of Harry's face. "Thanks, Molly," he called, plucking the bottle from the air and tilting it in the direction of his mother-in-law who was standing by the back door, holding a cauldron cake just out of James' reach. 

Harry took a long pull from the bottle, closing his eyes for a second and appreciating the crisp spring breeze upon his face and the aroma of newly-bloomed snapdragons drifting to him from the flowerbeds. 

His peaceful reprieve did not last long. The sound of Ginny's exasperated voice drifted to him much as his butterbeer had done. 

"Dad, it'll be so much quicker to use your wand." 

 "It's a Muggle barbecue!" Arthur cried. "We must use matches, Ginny!" 

 Harry grinned to himself, able to imagine, without opening his eyes, the frustrated expression currently adorning Ginny's face. 

 "Wand," said a much closer voice and Harry felt something sharp poke him in the ribs. Albus grinned up at him, waving his latest stick wildly through the air. "Wand," he said once more. 

 "You've got a wand, have you?" Harry asked, smiling proudly at him.

 Al nodded as he continued to wave the stick with abandon. His eyes focussed on the tip of the ‘wand’; his round cheeks turned red from the effort of concentrating.

 Harry continued to watch Al, listening to Ginny and Arthur’s increasingly frustrated conversation until, finally, there was a whoop of joy and he turned to see the two of them hugging. Flames danced upon the coals and the smell of smoke began to drift across the garden.

 It was at that moment that Al, seemingly bored of his stick, threw it carelessly to the side and took off, running as fast his pudgy legs could carry him towards the opposite side of the garden where a particularly grumpy looking group of gnomes had just popped up from a hole in the dirt.

 “They bite, Al!” Harry shouted, hauling himself up from the picnic blanket in order to chase after his son.

 Al shrieked loudly as he ran, obviously too overcome with excitement to listen to his father’s warning. Fortunately, the noise alerted Ginny to his presence. With a speed that had been honed over her years as a professional Quidditch player, she turned and grabbed Al before he could reach the waiting pack of gnomes.

His capture did not seem to bother Albus, who squealed loudly as Ginny proceeded to throw him into the air before catching him securely against her chest.

“Where are you off to?” She asked Al as Harry reached her side. “Was Daddy not paying you enough attention?”

 “Daddy was giving him plenty of attention,” Harry said, reaching over and taking Al from her. “I’m just not as interesting as garden gnomes, apparently.”

 “I’ve been telling you that for years,” Ginny said, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

“Would one of Nanna’s cauldron cakes hold your attention?” Harry asked, ignoring Ginny as he turned his attention to his son who was wriggling in his arms, desperate to get away.

 “You’re going to spoil his dinner,” Ginny warned.

 Harry looked up from Al and smirked at her. “Who’s the boring one now?”

 Ginny rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue out at him. “Naughty!” Al declared, pointing a stern finger in Ginny’s direction.

 “Yes,” Harry agreed, already turning away from Ginny and carrying Al towards the table set up near the back door where Molly and James still stood. “Your mummy is very naughty.”

 James was still jumping, though it seemed he had worn Molly down some time ago, judging by the traces of chocolate smeared across his face.

 Harry settled Al into the highchair beside the table, securing him with his wand before reaching over and placing one of the freshly baked cauldron cakes arranged in the centre of the table on the tray before Al.

 It was impressive how quickly Al managed to make a mess. Harry watched as he succeeded in smashing the majority of the cake between his hand and the tray. “See, you won’t ruin your dinner like that,” he muttered.

 His attention wandered from the destruction Al was wreaking upon Molly’s baked goods, to James, who was still hopping like a kangaroo in front of Molly.

 “I can jump higher than Louis!” James declared.

 “Well, Louis is a few months younger than you,” Molly replied fairly, her hands on her hips and a look of amusement on her face.

“I can jump higher than you!” James said, as though he had not heard Molly at all.  

 “Of course you can!” Molly said through a chuckle. “Nanna’s can’t jump!”

 James paused for a moment, as though considering his grandmother’s words. A hand reached up absently to brush through his unruly auburn hair. He turned, fixing Harry with a questioning stare. “Nanna’s can’t jump?”

 “No,” Harry said seriously. “Everyone knows that.”

 The doubt disappeared from James’ face immediately, apparently trusting that if his father said that Nanna’s couldn’t jump it must be true.

 “I’ll show you,” he said decidedly, turning back to Molly and taking her hand.

 “It’s no use, James!” Molly protested. “I simply can’t jump!”

 “It’s easy, Nanna” James said dismissively. He tugged on Molly’s hand until she bent her knees. “Now, jump!” James instructed, launching himself into the air.

 Molly stood up straight once more with an expression of faux concentration. Her feet did not leave the ground. “I told you, Nanna’s can’t jump!”

 “Nanna,” James said, his expression more serious than Harry had ever seen it. “That’s silly.”

 Harry caught Ginny’s eye from across the garden; they grinned at one another before Ginny’s hand moved to her mouth to conceal her laughter.

 “Try again!” James said, pulling on Molly’s hand once more.

 This continued for some time. James, apparently unwilling to accept that his grandmother would never be able to do something as wondrous as jumping, became increasingly erratic in his movements until Harry had to move Al’s highchair further away, lest he fall victim to one of his brother’s flailing legs.

 “Give it up, James,” Harry said eventually. Just watching his son bounce up and down endlessly was beginning to make him feel exhausted. “Nanna’s can’t jump, there’s nothing to be done about it.”

 “One last try,” James said solemnly, widening his eyes and schooling his features into an expression that neither Harry nor Molly had ever been particularly good at saying no to.

 “One last try,” Harry agreed through a sigh.

 James crouched low, his bottom only inches from the ground as he gestured for Molly to follow his example. Molly bent her knees in a rather more dignified manner.

 “One…Two…Three!”

 This time, Molly jumped, her feet leaving the ground by mere inches. James, however, did not have the opportunity to savour his victory. His own jump had been more powerful than anyone would have rightly expected. Harry watched, his heart crawling into his mouth as James soared higher and higher, until he came to land upon the roof of The Burrow.

 “Merlin!” Molly exclaimed, her hands flying to her face. “He hasn’t done magic before has he?”

“James!” Harry yelled, jumping from his seat at the table; barely hearing Molly’s question. “Don’t move! Stay right where you are!”

 James’ laughter was audible even from a distance, his wide smile of delight was easy to see.

 Harry was a fully trained Auror, he had extensive experience in dealing with high pressure situations, but seeing his son balanced so precariously on the roof had made him blind with panic.

 “I’ve got him!” Harry heard Ginny call, though he was unable to tear his eyes away from James to look at her.

 He withdrew his wand from his pocket, willing his hand not to shake as he held it poised, ready to cast a cushioning charm should James slip and fall.

 A moment later, Ginny appeared, hovering in front of James on one of the old broomsticks from the shed. Harry watched intensely as she gripped the broom between her thighs and scooped James off the roof, seating him firmly in front of her.

Ginny landed smoothly on the grass in front of him. Al applauded his mother’s daring rescue attempt enthusiastically and Harry felt his heart begin to retreat back into his chest as James' feet touched the ground once more.

 “Did you see that?” he asked, looking excitedly between Molly and Harry.

 “I did,” Harry said faintly, lowering himself back into his seat before his legs gave out beneath him.

 “Now you know,” Molly said, giving Harry a satisfied look as she patted James lovingly on the head. “What you lot did to me when you were younger.”

 “Burgers are ready!” Arthur called triumphantly, seemingly having missed the commotion owing to the excitement of his new barbecue.

 “Sorry doesn’t quite cut it, does it?” Harry said.