Mistreated
Overthinking
Monday February 3rd
Iris’s POV:
I expected things to be awkward after what we did on Harry's birthday, but everything is completely normal. If anything changed at all, we’re happier. That was a big step for me, and I’m glad I got to share that with him.
As for him calling me “Love”, he hasn’t said it since. Maybe it was just a spur of the moment thing, maybe it was just because of the intimate moment we shared, maybe it's because he thought I had already taken my hearing aids out, or maybe he actually loves me. He never calls me “Love.” Zayn and Louis call me that on occasions but that’s because we’re like siblings and it’s just a nickname they used in London, but Harry has always stuck to “Angel.” Then again, Harry loving me in such a short time sounds kind of ridiculous. It’s only been five months, almost six. There’s no way he can love me. I think part of me is just scared of that. I’ve always wanted to be loved, but never in my wildest dreams did I imagine someone ever falling in love with me.
“Hey, you okay?” Harry shook my hand to bring me back to reality. “You look deep in thought.”
“That noticeable?” I chuckled. W're at DSF club lined up against the wall to hear something Mrs. Clark has to say before we start our work.
He nodded, “You were staring at Kyle’s crotch.” I looked in the direction I was staring in before and sure enough, Kyle was standing across the room wearing some very tight skinny jeans. That’s awkward.
“Um, well I-“
He chuckled, “You normally don’t do that, so I know that wasn’t your intention. Just thought you should know what you were looking at.”
“Okay, listen up everyone,” Mrs. Clark demanded. “Okay, so you all know I took the petitions to the school district. Well, I have some news. We had enough signatures that they have to take action in removing your principal as soon as possible.” Cheers erupted in the room as people high-fived and held their fists in the air in celebration.
Harry leaned over my shoulder, “See? You don’t have to worry about that Twisted Fuck anymore.”
“The only thing is,” Mrs. Clark added. “The Vice Principal quit a few days ago due to personal problems. This means we’re going to have to wait on them to hire a replacement before they can officially give your principal the boot.”
I curled my lips and looked up at Harry, “Looks like you spoke too soon.”
“I won’t let him lay a hand on you,” he protectively pulled me against him, rubbing his hands up and down my back in attempt to sooth me.
Mrs. Clark cleared her throat, “I was wondering what you guys would think if I were to apply for the job.” Gasps were heard all around the room as people exchanged smiles. “Now, that would mean we’d have to hire a replacement to teach my classes, but I’d still run this club. There’s also no guarantee that I’ll even get the job.”
“We support you no matter what,” some girl said and we all nodded in agreement as a few scattered yes’s were said.
She smiled, “That means the world to me coming from you guys. Now, enough chit chat, let’s get in groups and start your work. It’s the same old thing: pick a subject you need to work on and sit at that table.”
I pointed to the English table to indicate our friends that we should take that table. Harry, Kyle, Liz, Dakota, Eleanor and I all took the over the table in one swift motion, taking out our books to make it look like we were actually about to do work.
“This is the first time we’ve chosen the same table,” Eleanor laughed.
“Yeah, I tried last time, but you just had to choose the history table,” I teased.
She pouted, “I needed help in history.”
“You actually did work?” I raised my brows.
“No,” she rolled her eyes. “Some guy wouldn’t shut up about some mole he has.”
Dakota shivered, “That’s disturbing.”
“Almost as disturbing as Iris staring at Kyle’s-“ Harry was cut off by my elbow ramming into his ribcage. He stuck out his bottom lip as I rubbed the spot I just hit him. Hey, he asked for it.
Kyle smirked, “My what, Iris?”
“Nothing,” I shook my head. “He doesn’t know what he’s talking about.”
Eleanor chuckled, “I don’t think we want to know. Anyways, Iris we’ve got to work on your routine for the talent show again.”
I slid my hand down my face in realization that I haven’t practiced in forever. Perrie has it easy, she literally just has to memorize the lines to the song since she’s already got everything else down. Meanwhile, I’ve got to memorize every movement, every beat, and the timing. It’s exhausting really. “Okay, well are you available tomorrow after school?”
“No,” she sighed. “I have a stupid modeling gig that I don’t want to go to. Wednesday?”
“That works,” I shrugged
“You’re in the talent show?” Dakota asked. I nodded. “What are you doing?”
“I’m dancing and Perrie’s singing,” I stated.
“And she’s quite talented,” Harry added as he wrapped his arm around my shoulders. I smiled to him for his kind words. He’s so good to me.
“Do you know what you’re wearing?” Liz asked. That’s kind of random.
I shook my head, “Not really. I’ve been too busy worrying about the dances to think about that.”
She formed an agape smile on her face, “Can I design it?”
“What?” I watched Kyle and Dakota’s mouths drop, obviously being as shocked as I am; Harry and Eleanor aren’t fazed because they don’t know Liz well.
Liz chuckled, “I’ve been designing clothes for a while now. I actually plan to be part of the fashion industry and start my own company. I just think it’d be fun to design something for you to wear.”
“You know, I’d actually love that,” I smiled. “But I’m going to be pretty specific on what I want.”
“Deal,” she nodded. “I don’t care as long as you’ll be wearing it on stage. That’ll be amazing.”
“We should do something after school,” Dakota said. “We haven’t hung out outside of these walls.”
“Girls’ Day?” Eleanor wiggled her eyebrows, making us all laugh.
Harry whined, “That’s not fair.”
“Then go to Lou’s,” I laughed. “He’s been dying to hang out with you.”
Eleanor rolled her eyes, “I swear he loves you more than he loves me.”
Harry chuckled, “Don’t be jealous, El. What Lou and I have is special.”
“I’m kind of jealous,” I joked.
“You should be,” he teased back. “You’ve got some pretty stiff competition.”
I pushed him away a little, “Well, he can have you.”
“Anyways,” Dakota giggled. “Can Kyle come with us?”
“What?” Kyle’s jaw dropped. “I’m not a girl Dakota.”
Harry chuckled, “You can join the guys and I if you want. I wouldn’t want you to have to paint your nails with them.”
“Thanks,” Kyle grinned. “It’ll be nice to hang out with guys for a change.”
“I feel offended by that statement,” Liz held her chest in fake disbelief.
Suddenly, Mrs. Clark cleared her throat from behind us, making us all jump. “I hope whatever statement you’re referring to is somewhere in that book,” she smirked.
“Uh yeah,” Harry said like it was obvious. He pointed to a picture in the book, “It says right here that the picture, right here, is called The Persistence of Memory. Big statement,” he nodded vigorously, his hands measuring just how big the statement is with the air.
“Uh huh,” Mrs. Clark crossed her arms as her tongue pushed against the inside of her cheek. “So why is Elizabeth offended by that statement?”
“Because the clocks are melted,” Liz stated.
Harry curled his lips and nodded, “Yeah. I feel like it’s saying we have a terrible memory.”
“Harry, I think you’re forgetting that you have my English class,” Mrs. Clark laughed. “I don’t know how that painting is relevant to the short story you’re supposed to be reading.” I face palmed and started laughing along with everyone else in the group. Oh, what a special boy.
“Well maybe I like art,” Harry joked.
“Just do the work I assigned you,” Mrs. Clark playfully rolled her eyes. She walked over and patted Harry on the shoulder, “That was a nice try though.”
“You are truly the biggest idiot I know,” Eleanor groaned at him once Mrs. Clark walked away.
“Yet your boyfriend loves this idiot,” Harry grinned cheekily.
“I’m not sure what’s worse: hanging out with the guys or the girls?” Kyle teased.
I snickered, “Oooohhhh, you just got schooled.” I reached across the table and gave Kyle a high-five for that burn.
“At least I wasn’t staring at his-“ Harry started to say before I slapped his chest.
“Will you shut up about that already?” I laughed.
For Girls’ Day, my mother allowed us to use our kitchen to make cupcakes. You see, girls don’t always paint each other’s nails and do each other’s hair when they hang out. Harry’s just jealous. Anyways, we’re not making just any cupcakes, we’re making rainbow splattered cupcakes. Meaning, we’ll be putting food coloring in the batter to color the yellow cake mix. I’ve just always wanted to make them, okay?
So instead of it just being Liz, Eleanor, Dakota and I, we decided to invite a few more girls. Now, Sophia, Riley and Perrie joined us in my kitchen. I’ve never had this many people over before, so you can probably imagine how my mother feels. She’s excited for me, yet there’s so many girls in one room. She happily volunteered to go to the store and buy the ingredients we needed since there was so much going on.
Once she got back, I immediately started on mixing the batter and separating it into six different bowls. Because I made the mix, I had all of the girls put the color dye in each of their own bowls. They happily did that as the conversation started getting interesting.
“So what are you guys doing for Valentine’s Day?” Perrie asked.
Eleanor groaned, “Who knows? Louis is unpredictable.”
“True,” I smirked. “Is it wrong that I doubt Harry will do anything?”
“Yeah,” Sophia said in shock. “Harry is a hopeless romantic deep down. You should see him on movie nights, always picking out things like Love Actually or The Notebook. It was weird at first, but it got cute since we used that to our advantage.”
Riley chuckled, “I swear he’s a girl.”
“Sometimes he makes me feel like a lesbian,” I snickered, making everyone else bust out into laughter.
“That hair though,” Liz joked, making us all laugh harder.
“What about you, Liz? Any Valentine’s Day plans?” I asked curiously.
“Nah, I’m just fine living the single life,” she smiled as she mixed the blue dye into her bowl of cake batter.
“What is the point of Valentine’s Day?” Dakota rolled her eyes. “Like, there shouldn’t just be one specific day that a person should tell their loved ones how they feel. They should be reminding them of their feelings every day.”
“Amen, Sister,” Sophia agreed.
I chuckled, “Dakota’s just saying that because she’s single.”
“Maybe,” Dakota dragged the word.
“So no plans for you either?” Eleanor pouted.
“Nope,” Dakota answered, popping the ‘p’.
Liz set her bowl down and wrapped her arms around one of Dakota’s, “We’ll just throw an Anti-V-Day party.”
Dakota nodded, “I’m down.”
“What about you Perrie?” I raised my brows. She’s been sitting pretty quietly since she brought up the topic. “Any plans for you?”
“I don’t know,” she sighed.
“What’s wrong?” Riley asked.
Perrie shook her head, “I just feel like Zayn’s been acting strange lately. Like he’s been so nervous around me, and he’s never nervous anymore. I’m never allowed to go over to his house anymore because it’s too messy,” she air quoted ‘too messy’. “When I tell him I love him, he asks if I’m sure I really do. Maybe he wants to break up with me and just doesn’t know how too.” Way to be subtle Zayn.
“No, no, no, no,” I shook my head as I walked over and wrapped my arms around her. “I’m sure that he doesn’t want to break up with you. Maybe he’s just nervous about Valentine’s Day. There’s probably things at his house that he just doesn’t want you to see because it’s a surprise.”
“Maybe,” she shrugged.
“Seriously,” Sophia smiled sincerely. “I don’t doubt for a second that Zayn loves you. You two are the cutest couple in the group and we are all rooting for you.”
“Out of all of us, I think you guys will last the longest. Maybe even forever,” Eleanor winked at Perrie.
Perrie let out a soft laugh, “You guys are probably right. I’m just overthinking things.”
“Sounds like it,” Dakota pointed out.
“Thanks,” Perrie said sarcastically, letting out a laugh as she did so.
After talking more about the subject, we finished up the cupcakes. I have to say they turned out amazing. So amazing that we didn’t even want to put frosting on them; they’re too pretty for that. We decided to eat them with spoonfuls of frosting, which was a surprisingly brilliant idea.
We eventually found ourselves in front of my television in the living room, watching The Hunger Games as we ate a few of our cupcakes. I took this opportunity to text Zayn about his stupidity:
To Zayn:
So good work on keeping Perrie in the dark about the proposal. Too bad you’re making her think you’re breaking up with her.
From Zayn:
What? She really thinks that?
To Zayn:
Well yeah. I know you think she might find the ring at your house, but is she really that nosey? It’s not like she’d be looking for it. Also, stop questioning her love for you. She loves you, Dude. Your anxiety is worrying her.
From Zayn:
I can’t help it. What if she says no? What if she doesn’t feel the same? I just don’t want to do it without being 100% sure she’d say yes.
To Zayn:
She’ll say yes, I know she will. I told her you were probably planning something special for her on V Day and that’s why you’ve been acting so weird. You better do something pretty damn amazing for her. You’re welcome.
From Zayn:
Thank you. You’re the best.
To Zayn:
The greatest, I know(;
I chuckled to myself about our conversation. Zayn and I went ring shopping months ago and he’s been waiting for the right day to propose to her. He must feel like that time is coming since he’s acting oh-so-sly. He really needs to work on keeping his secrets in a much more organized way. Whatever, boys will be boys.
“Iris,” my mother called me as she walked into the room. “Can we talk for a minute?”
I nodded and left the girls to watch the movie as I followed my mother to the kitchen. “What’s up?”
“I know you’re busy right now, but I won’t be home tomorrow so I wanted to tell you now,” she sighed. “I think it’s time that you start looking for a job.”
“Okay,” I smiled. I’m actually excited about the idea of me getting a job. It’s just another thing that helps me grow up and makes me feel like I’m fitting in.
“I want you to start looking tomorrow,” she stated. “That’s why I’m telling you this now.”
I shrugged, “That’s fine by me. Can I ask why you’re being so urgent about it?”
“Well,” she bit her lip. “You’re a little behind schedule compared to your sisters. They got jobs during their Junior year (A/N: Third year of high school). I just don’t want you to graduate and not have any money saved up. It honestly just occurred to me.”
I laughed, “Okay. I’ll look for a job tomorrow. No big deal.”
She nodded, “Okay, that’s good. Also, I know your father and I haven’t taught you how to drive yet, so we’re going to have to work on that.”
I smiled widely, “Really?” FINALLY! Harry has been driving me around everywhere and I feel terrible. I try to give him gas money but he always refuses it because he’s stubborn like that. It’ll be nice to be the one who’s driving for a change.
“Yes,” she chuckled. “If you pass both tests in one try, we’ll even buy your car. Your sisters got that same deal.”
“Oh my gosh,” I jumped up and down and hugged her tightly. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” She has no idea how happy she has made me.
Harry’s POV:
“Why is my girlfriend texting you?” I chuckled as I stared at Iris’s name on Zayn’s phone screen. All of the guys and I are hanging out at Lou’s house playing video games and eating junk food.
“Cause she can,” Zayn smirked.
“Whatever, Dude,” I shook my head.
“I totally shot you!” Niall screamed at Liam. They’re playing Call of Duty and Niall sucks shit at that game.
Liam laughed, “No you didn’t. You completely missed.”
Louis grabbed a bag of Hot Cheetos and began munching on them, “So guys, Valentine’s Day is coming up.”
“Shag Day,” Niall winked and turned his focus back on the game.
“Yeah, that’s not happening for you or me Nialler,” I sadly admitted.
“Still?” Lou’s eyes widened.
I shrugged, “It’s no big deal really. I don’t mind.”
“Fucking Christ,” Zayn smiled so big I wanted to slap it off his face. “You love her.”
“W-what?” I stuttered, laughing nervously. “No.” I fucking do. I've never felt this way about a girl before. Never have I ever waited for so long to have sex with someone. Not only that, but we've been through so much together in the past few months and here we are, still standing strong and sticking by each other's sides. I love everything about her: her laugh, her smile, her sparkling blue-green eyes, her silliness, her graceful dancing, when she bites down on her soft pale pink lip, the way she blushes, her everything. I've got it bad.
Kyle chuckled, “You do. It’s written all over your face, Man. You should tell her on Valentine’s Day.” Now, I kind of wish I didn’t invite him.
“No,” I said sternly. “We’ve only known each other for like five months. I can’t just tell her that. It’s too soon.”
Liam shrugged, “Maybe, but at least you’d have something great planned out for her.”
“At least you guys have dates to plan something for,” Niall pouted.
“I’m with you,” Kyle nodded.
I laughed and nudged Kyle, “No, you’ve got your eyes on Riley.”
“Doesn’t mean she’s got eyes on me,” he stated.
“She does,” all of us said in unison.
He threw his hands up in surrender, “Okay, okay. Maybe you’re right.”
“Just make your move,” Louis chuckled.
“You should’ve died!” Niall bounced in his seat as he shouted at Liam.
Liam rolled his eyes, “Shooting my leg doesn’t instantly kill me, Nialler.”
“What about you, Zayn?” I asked. “Any big plans for Perrie.”
He bit his lip, “Well, yeah.”
“Okay?” Louis leaned towards Zayn, interested in this conversation. “Do you mind sharing because I could use some ideas?”
“I don’t think you’d want to steal my idea,” Zayn chuckled as he ruffled Louis’s hair.
“Spit it out,” I ordered him, waving my hand in a circular motion.
“No,” Zayn shook his head. “You’ll laugh, for one. Plus, you’ll probably ruin it for me somehow.”
“Just say it, Mate,” Liam shook his head.
“Okay, okay,” Zayn gave in. It must be something pretty big since he’s nervously running his hands through his hair, making it look like a mess. He let out a groan before he finally said it, “I’m proposing to Perrie.”
Louis dropped the bag of Hot Cheetos, spilling them all over the carpet. Liam’s jaw dropped as he turned to Zayn in shock. Niall obviously doesn’t care since he’s jumping up and down from actually shooting Liam. My eyes widened as I stared the Zayn down, trying to figure out what he’s thinking. Kyle’s congratulatory smile flattened once he realized how surprised we all were.
“Dude, you’re only eighteen,” Louis managed to say.
“So?” Zayn shrugged. “I love her and I plan on being with her for the rest of my life, so why not start the next step now?”
“Don’t you think it’s a little rushed?” Liam asked.
Zayn shook his head, a slight smile forming on his face, “Not at all. I already asked her parents if I could before I bought the ring, and they said yes.”
“You bought a ring already?” I scratched the back of my head. This is basically my sister he’s proposing to. I’ve actually known Perrie longer than I’ve known any of these boys, and believe me, I’m happy for her. I’ve always expected them to get married one day, but I just didn’t realize it’d be so soon.
He nodded, “Yeah. I actually went ring shopping with your girlfriend.”
“When was this?” I furrowed my brows.
He thought about it for a minute, bringing his fingers to his chin. “About two months ago, when you were in the wheelchair and not talking to anyone.”
“Oh.” I don’t know what to say. I was a dick to Iris then, and there Zayn was, putting his trust into her over this huge secret he had. I’m grateful that someone was treating her right while I wasn’t.
“Two months ago?” Kyle asked. “Damn, you’ve been holding onto that ring for a long time.”
“I know,” Zayn sighed. “I was going to propose on Christmas, but it just didn’t feel like the right time yet. It’s getting to that point though.”
I smiled and squeezed his shoulder before lightly shaking him, “Well, I support this crazy plan of yours.” All of the boys agreed and Kyle finally returned his congratulatory smile on his face.
“Thanks Mates,” Zayn nodded in appreciation. “I just have one question: Should I do it on Valentine's Day or at the Talent Show?”
“Talent Show,” Niall answered first. “Girls like it when guys show them off.”
“Yeah, but what if Perrie says no?” Louis argues. “He’ll just be humiliated in front of the whole school.”
“That’s why she’d be forced to say yes,” Niall said like Louis was stupid. Just then, Louis lunged and Niall and tackled him to the ground.
As the boys wrestled Zayn pulled out his phone, “I’ll just ask Iris what she thinks.”
“Good idea,” I grinned.
“I just feel like Valentine’s Day proposals are too cliché,” Liam shrugged. “It’s been done so many times.”
I laughed, “I honestly think we’re the wrong people to ask anyways.”
“I know you could probably care less, but my votes for Valentine’s Day,” Kyle stated.
“Well, that’s good,” Zayn smiled to him. “Iris said the same thing.”
“Ha!” Louis shouted in Niall’s face as he pinned him to the floor.
“You shouldn’t listen to me anyways,” Niall grunted. “I’m single.”
I chuckled and shook my head, “We need to get you a girl.”
Friday February 7th
Iris’s POV:
Fast forward a week and you'll see me doing the unimaginable. I never thought I'd be standing on her doorstep, and I highly doubt anyone else would've ever guessed I'd come here. Then again, nobody knows about her since I haven't told one person. One thing I do know for sure is that no one would be happy I'm here.
Here goes nothing. I take a deep breath and hold back all the true emotions I’m feeling just before I knock on the door. I don’t want her to see me and begin pitying me for everything I’ve been through. I just wish she’ll look at me differently than everyone else does. I want her to see a normal person when she answers this door. I want her to see her old friend and feel excited to see me. I don’t need her to know what happened. Not yet anyways.
A familiar face opened the door and beamed as soon as she saw me. “Hello Miracle,” I smiled genuinely at her.
Iris’s POV:
I expected things to be awkward after what we did on Harry's birthday, but everything is completely normal. If anything changed at all, we’re happier. That was a big step for me, and I’m glad I got to share that with him.
As for him calling me “Love”, he hasn’t said it since. Maybe it was just a spur of the moment thing, maybe it was just because of the intimate moment we shared, maybe it's because he thought I had already taken my hearing aids out, or maybe he actually loves me. He never calls me “Love.” Zayn and Louis call me that on occasions but that’s because we’re like siblings and it’s just a nickname they used in London, but Harry has always stuck to “Angel.” Then again, Harry loving me in such a short time sounds kind of ridiculous. It’s only been five months, almost six. There’s no way he can love me. I think part of me is just scared of that. I’ve always wanted to be loved, but never in my wildest dreams did I imagine someone ever falling in love with me.
“Hey, you okay?” Harry shook my hand to bring me back to reality. “You look deep in thought.”
“That noticeable?” I chuckled. W're at DSF club lined up against the wall to hear something Mrs. Clark has to say before we start our work.
He nodded, “You were staring at Kyle’s crotch.” I looked in the direction I was staring in before and sure enough, Kyle was standing across the room wearing some very tight skinny jeans. That’s awkward.
“Um, well I-“
He chuckled, “You normally don’t do that, so I know that wasn’t your intention. Just thought you should know what you were looking at.”
“Okay, listen up everyone,” Mrs. Clark demanded. “Okay, so you all know I took the petitions to the school district. Well, I have some news. We had enough signatures that they have to take action in removing your principal as soon as possible.” Cheers erupted in the room as people high-fived and held their fists in the air in celebration.
Harry leaned over my shoulder, “See? You don’t have to worry about that Twisted Fuck anymore.”
“The only thing is,” Mrs. Clark added. “The Vice Principal quit a few days ago due to personal problems. This means we’re going to have to wait on them to hire a replacement before they can officially give your principal the boot.”
I curled my lips and looked up at Harry, “Looks like you spoke too soon.”
“I won’t let him lay a hand on you,” he protectively pulled me against him, rubbing his hands up and down my back in attempt to sooth me.
Mrs. Clark cleared her throat, “I was wondering what you guys would think if I were to apply for the job.” Gasps were heard all around the room as people exchanged smiles. “Now, that would mean we’d have to hire a replacement to teach my classes, but I’d still run this club. There’s also no guarantee that I’ll even get the job.”
“We support you no matter what,” some girl said and we all nodded in agreement as a few scattered yes’s were said.
She smiled, “That means the world to me coming from you guys. Now, enough chit chat, let’s get in groups and start your work. It’s the same old thing: pick a subject you need to work on and sit at that table.”
I pointed to the English table to indicate our friends that we should take that table. Harry, Kyle, Liz, Dakota, Eleanor and I all took the over the table in one swift motion, taking out our books to make it look like we were actually about to do work.
“This is the first time we’ve chosen the same table,” Eleanor laughed.
“Yeah, I tried last time, but you just had to choose the history table,” I teased.
She pouted, “I needed help in history.”
“You actually did work?” I raised my brows.
“No,” she rolled her eyes. “Some guy wouldn’t shut up about some mole he has.”
Dakota shivered, “That’s disturbing.”
“Almost as disturbing as Iris staring at Kyle’s-“ Harry was cut off by my elbow ramming into his ribcage. He stuck out his bottom lip as I rubbed the spot I just hit him. Hey, he asked for it.
Kyle smirked, “My what, Iris?”
“Nothing,” I shook my head. “He doesn’t know what he’s talking about.”
Eleanor chuckled, “I don’t think we want to know. Anyways, Iris we’ve got to work on your routine for the talent show again.”
I slid my hand down my face in realization that I haven’t practiced in forever. Perrie has it easy, she literally just has to memorize the lines to the song since she’s already got everything else down. Meanwhile, I’ve got to memorize every movement, every beat, and the timing. It’s exhausting really. “Okay, well are you available tomorrow after school?”
“No,” she sighed. “I have a stupid modeling gig that I don’t want to go to. Wednesday?”
“That works,” I shrugged
“You’re in the talent show?” Dakota asked. I nodded. “What are you doing?”
“I’m dancing and Perrie’s singing,” I stated.
“And she’s quite talented,” Harry added as he wrapped his arm around my shoulders. I smiled to him for his kind words. He’s so good to me.
“Do you know what you’re wearing?” Liz asked. That’s kind of random.
I shook my head, “Not really. I’ve been too busy worrying about the dances to think about that.”
She formed an agape smile on her face, “Can I design it?”
“What?” I watched Kyle and Dakota’s mouths drop, obviously being as shocked as I am; Harry and Eleanor aren’t fazed because they don’t know Liz well.
Liz chuckled, “I’ve been designing clothes for a while now. I actually plan to be part of the fashion industry and start my own company. I just think it’d be fun to design something for you to wear.”
“You know, I’d actually love that,” I smiled. “But I’m going to be pretty specific on what I want.”
“Deal,” she nodded. “I don’t care as long as you’ll be wearing it on stage. That’ll be amazing.”
“We should do something after school,” Dakota said. “We haven’t hung out outside of these walls.”
“Girls’ Day?” Eleanor wiggled her eyebrows, making us all laugh.
Harry whined, “That’s not fair.”
“Then go to Lou’s,” I laughed. “He’s been dying to hang out with you.”
Eleanor rolled her eyes, “I swear he loves you more than he loves me.”
Harry chuckled, “Don’t be jealous, El. What Lou and I have is special.”
“I’m kind of jealous,” I joked.
“You should be,” he teased back. “You’ve got some pretty stiff competition.”
I pushed him away a little, “Well, he can have you.”
“Anyways,” Dakota giggled. “Can Kyle come with us?”
“What?” Kyle’s jaw dropped. “I’m not a girl Dakota.”
Harry chuckled, “You can join the guys and I if you want. I wouldn’t want you to have to paint your nails with them.”
“Thanks,” Kyle grinned. “It’ll be nice to hang out with guys for a change.”
“I feel offended by that statement,” Liz held her chest in fake disbelief.
Suddenly, Mrs. Clark cleared her throat from behind us, making us all jump. “I hope whatever statement you’re referring to is somewhere in that book,” she smirked.
“Uh yeah,” Harry said like it was obvious. He pointed to a picture in the book, “It says right here that the picture, right here, is called The Persistence of Memory. Big statement,” he nodded vigorously, his hands measuring just how big the statement is with the air.
“Uh huh,” Mrs. Clark crossed her arms as her tongue pushed against the inside of her cheek. “So why is Elizabeth offended by that statement?”
“Because the clocks are melted,” Liz stated.
Harry curled his lips and nodded, “Yeah. I feel like it’s saying we have a terrible memory.”
“Harry, I think you’re forgetting that you have my English class,” Mrs. Clark laughed. “I don’t know how that painting is relevant to the short story you’re supposed to be reading.” I face palmed and started laughing along with everyone else in the group. Oh, what a special boy.
“Well maybe I like art,” Harry joked.
“Just do the work I assigned you,” Mrs. Clark playfully rolled her eyes. She walked over and patted Harry on the shoulder, “That was a nice try though.”
“You are truly the biggest idiot I know,” Eleanor groaned at him once Mrs. Clark walked away.
“Yet your boyfriend loves this idiot,” Harry grinned cheekily.
“I’m not sure what’s worse: hanging out with the guys or the girls?” Kyle teased.
I snickered, “Oooohhhh, you just got schooled.” I reached across the table and gave Kyle a high-five for that burn.
“At least I wasn’t staring at his-“ Harry started to say before I slapped his chest.
“Will you shut up about that already?” I laughed.
For Girls’ Day, my mother allowed us to use our kitchen to make cupcakes. You see, girls don’t always paint each other’s nails and do each other’s hair when they hang out. Harry’s just jealous. Anyways, we’re not making just any cupcakes, we’re making rainbow splattered cupcakes. Meaning, we’ll be putting food coloring in the batter to color the yellow cake mix. I’ve just always wanted to make them, okay?
So instead of it just being Liz, Eleanor, Dakota and I, we decided to invite a few more girls. Now, Sophia, Riley and Perrie joined us in my kitchen. I’ve never had this many people over before, so you can probably imagine how my mother feels. She’s excited for me, yet there’s so many girls in one room. She happily volunteered to go to the store and buy the ingredients we needed since there was so much going on.
Once she got back, I immediately started on mixing the batter and separating it into six different bowls. Because I made the mix, I had all of the girls put the color dye in each of their own bowls. They happily did that as the conversation started getting interesting.
“So what are you guys doing for Valentine’s Day?” Perrie asked.
Eleanor groaned, “Who knows? Louis is unpredictable.”
“True,” I smirked. “Is it wrong that I doubt Harry will do anything?”
“Yeah,” Sophia said in shock. “Harry is a hopeless romantic deep down. You should see him on movie nights, always picking out things like Love Actually or The Notebook. It was weird at first, but it got cute since we used that to our advantage.”
Riley chuckled, “I swear he’s a girl.”
“Sometimes he makes me feel like a lesbian,” I snickered, making everyone else bust out into laughter.
“That hair though,” Liz joked, making us all laugh harder.
“What about you, Liz? Any Valentine’s Day plans?” I asked curiously.
“Nah, I’m just fine living the single life,” she smiled as she mixed the blue dye into her bowl of cake batter.
“What is the point of Valentine’s Day?” Dakota rolled her eyes. “Like, there shouldn’t just be one specific day that a person should tell their loved ones how they feel. They should be reminding them of their feelings every day.”
“Amen, Sister,” Sophia agreed.
I chuckled, “Dakota’s just saying that because she’s single.”
“Maybe,” Dakota dragged the word.
“So no plans for you either?” Eleanor pouted.
“Nope,” Dakota answered, popping the ‘p’.
Liz set her bowl down and wrapped her arms around one of Dakota’s, “We’ll just throw an Anti-V-Day party.”
Dakota nodded, “I’m down.”
“What about you Perrie?” I raised my brows. She’s been sitting pretty quietly since she brought up the topic. “Any plans for you?”
“I don’t know,” she sighed.
“What’s wrong?” Riley asked.
Perrie shook her head, “I just feel like Zayn’s been acting strange lately. Like he’s been so nervous around me, and he’s never nervous anymore. I’m never allowed to go over to his house anymore because it’s too messy,” she air quoted ‘too messy’. “When I tell him I love him, he asks if I’m sure I really do. Maybe he wants to break up with me and just doesn’t know how too.” Way to be subtle Zayn.
“No, no, no, no,” I shook my head as I walked over and wrapped my arms around her. “I’m sure that he doesn’t want to break up with you. Maybe he’s just nervous about Valentine’s Day. There’s probably things at his house that he just doesn’t want you to see because it’s a surprise.”
“Maybe,” she shrugged.
“Seriously,” Sophia smiled sincerely. “I don’t doubt for a second that Zayn loves you. You two are the cutest couple in the group and we are all rooting for you.”
“Out of all of us, I think you guys will last the longest. Maybe even forever,” Eleanor winked at Perrie.
Perrie let out a soft laugh, “You guys are probably right. I’m just overthinking things.”
“Sounds like it,” Dakota pointed out.
“Thanks,” Perrie said sarcastically, letting out a laugh as she did so.
After talking more about the subject, we finished up the cupcakes. I have to say they turned out amazing. So amazing that we didn’t even want to put frosting on them; they’re too pretty for that. We decided to eat them with spoonfuls of frosting, which was a surprisingly brilliant idea.
We eventually found ourselves in front of my television in the living room, watching The Hunger Games as we ate a few of our cupcakes. I took this opportunity to text Zayn about his stupidity:
To Zayn:
So good work on keeping Perrie in the dark about the proposal. Too bad you’re making her think you’re breaking up with her.
From Zayn:
What? She really thinks that?
To Zayn:
Well yeah. I know you think she might find the ring at your house, but is she really that nosey? It’s not like she’d be looking for it. Also, stop questioning her love for you. She loves you, Dude. Your anxiety is worrying her.
From Zayn:
I can’t help it. What if she says no? What if she doesn’t feel the same? I just don’t want to do it without being 100% sure she’d say yes.
To Zayn:
She’ll say yes, I know she will. I told her you were probably planning something special for her on V Day and that’s why you’ve been acting so weird. You better do something pretty damn amazing for her. You’re welcome.
From Zayn:
Thank you. You’re the best.
To Zayn:
The greatest, I know(;
I chuckled to myself about our conversation. Zayn and I went ring shopping months ago and he’s been waiting for the right day to propose to her. He must feel like that time is coming since he’s acting oh-so-sly. He really needs to work on keeping his secrets in a much more organized way. Whatever, boys will be boys.
“Iris,” my mother called me as she walked into the room. “Can we talk for a minute?”
I nodded and left the girls to watch the movie as I followed my mother to the kitchen. “What’s up?”
“I know you’re busy right now, but I won’t be home tomorrow so I wanted to tell you now,” she sighed. “I think it’s time that you start looking for a job.”
“Okay,” I smiled. I’m actually excited about the idea of me getting a job. It’s just another thing that helps me grow up and makes me feel like I’m fitting in.
“I want you to start looking tomorrow,” she stated. “That’s why I’m telling you this now.”
I shrugged, “That’s fine by me. Can I ask why you’re being so urgent about it?”
“Well,” she bit her lip. “You’re a little behind schedule compared to your sisters. They got jobs during their Junior year (A/N: Third year of high school). I just don’t want you to graduate and not have any money saved up. It honestly just occurred to me.”
I laughed, “Okay. I’ll look for a job tomorrow. No big deal.”
She nodded, “Okay, that’s good. Also, I know your father and I haven’t taught you how to drive yet, so we’re going to have to work on that.”
I smiled widely, “Really?” FINALLY! Harry has been driving me around everywhere and I feel terrible. I try to give him gas money but he always refuses it because he’s stubborn like that. It’ll be nice to be the one who’s driving for a change.
“Yes,” she chuckled. “If you pass both tests in one try, we’ll even buy your car. Your sisters got that same deal.”
“Oh my gosh,” I jumped up and down and hugged her tightly. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” She has no idea how happy she has made me.
Harry’s POV:
“Why is my girlfriend texting you?” I chuckled as I stared at Iris’s name on Zayn’s phone screen. All of the guys and I are hanging out at Lou’s house playing video games and eating junk food.
“Cause she can,” Zayn smirked.
“Whatever, Dude,” I shook my head.
“I totally shot you!” Niall screamed at Liam. They’re playing Call of Duty and Niall sucks shit at that game.
Liam laughed, “No you didn’t. You completely missed.”
Louis grabbed a bag of Hot Cheetos and began munching on them, “So guys, Valentine’s Day is coming up.”
“Shag Day,” Niall winked and turned his focus back on the game.
“Yeah, that’s not happening for you or me Nialler,” I sadly admitted.
“Still?” Lou’s eyes widened.
I shrugged, “It’s no big deal really. I don’t mind.”
“Fucking Christ,” Zayn smiled so big I wanted to slap it off his face. “You love her.”
“W-what?” I stuttered, laughing nervously. “No.” I fucking do. I've never felt this way about a girl before. Never have I ever waited for so long to have sex with someone. Not only that, but we've been through so much together in the past few months and here we are, still standing strong and sticking by each other's sides. I love everything about her: her laugh, her smile, her sparkling blue-green eyes, her silliness, her graceful dancing, when she bites down on her soft pale pink lip, the way she blushes, her everything. I've got it bad.
Kyle chuckled, “You do. It’s written all over your face, Man. You should tell her on Valentine’s Day.” Now, I kind of wish I didn’t invite him.
“No,” I said sternly. “We’ve only known each other for like five months. I can’t just tell her that. It’s too soon.”
Liam shrugged, “Maybe, but at least you’d have something great planned out for her.”
“At least you guys have dates to plan something for,” Niall pouted.
“I’m with you,” Kyle nodded.
I laughed and nudged Kyle, “No, you’ve got your eyes on Riley.”
“Doesn’t mean she’s got eyes on me,” he stated.
“She does,” all of us said in unison.
He threw his hands up in surrender, “Okay, okay. Maybe you’re right.”
“Just make your move,” Louis chuckled.
“You should’ve died!” Niall bounced in his seat as he shouted at Liam.
Liam rolled his eyes, “Shooting my leg doesn’t instantly kill me, Nialler.”
“What about you, Zayn?” I asked. “Any big plans for Perrie.”
He bit his lip, “Well, yeah.”
“Okay?” Louis leaned towards Zayn, interested in this conversation. “Do you mind sharing because I could use some ideas?”
“I don’t think you’d want to steal my idea,” Zayn chuckled as he ruffled Louis’s hair.
“Spit it out,” I ordered him, waving my hand in a circular motion.
“No,” Zayn shook his head. “You’ll laugh, for one. Plus, you’ll probably ruin it for me somehow.”
“Just say it, Mate,” Liam shook his head.
“Okay, okay,” Zayn gave in. It must be something pretty big since he’s nervously running his hands through his hair, making it look like a mess. He let out a groan before he finally said it, “I’m proposing to Perrie.”
Louis dropped the bag of Hot Cheetos, spilling them all over the carpet. Liam’s jaw dropped as he turned to Zayn in shock. Niall obviously doesn’t care since he’s jumping up and down from actually shooting Liam. My eyes widened as I stared the Zayn down, trying to figure out what he’s thinking. Kyle’s congratulatory smile flattened once he realized how surprised we all were.
“Dude, you’re only eighteen,” Louis managed to say.
“So?” Zayn shrugged. “I love her and I plan on being with her for the rest of my life, so why not start the next step now?”
“Don’t you think it’s a little rushed?” Liam asked.
Zayn shook his head, a slight smile forming on his face, “Not at all. I already asked her parents if I could before I bought the ring, and they said yes.”
“You bought a ring already?” I scratched the back of my head. This is basically my sister he’s proposing to. I’ve actually known Perrie longer than I’ve known any of these boys, and believe me, I’m happy for her. I’ve always expected them to get married one day, but I just didn’t realize it’d be so soon.
He nodded, “Yeah. I actually went ring shopping with your girlfriend.”
“When was this?” I furrowed my brows.
He thought about it for a minute, bringing his fingers to his chin. “About two months ago, when you were in the wheelchair and not talking to anyone.”
“Oh.” I don’t know what to say. I was a dick to Iris then, and there Zayn was, putting his trust into her over this huge secret he had. I’m grateful that someone was treating her right while I wasn’t.
“Two months ago?” Kyle asked. “Damn, you’ve been holding onto that ring for a long time.”
“I know,” Zayn sighed. “I was going to propose on Christmas, but it just didn’t feel like the right time yet. It’s getting to that point though.”
I smiled and squeezed his shoulder before lightly shaking him, “Well, I support this crazy plan of yours.” All of the boys agreed and Kyle finally returned his congratulatory smile on his face.
“Thanks Mates,” Zayn nodded in appreciation. “I just have one question: Should I do it on Valentine's Day or at the Talent Show?”
“Talent Show,” Niall answered first. “Girls like it when guys show them off.”
“Yeah, but what if Perrie says no?” Louis argues. “He’ll just be humiliated in front of the whole school.”
“That’s why she’d be forced to say yes,” Niall said like Louis was stupid. Just then, Louis lunged and Niall and tackled him to the ground.
As the boys wrestled Zayn pulled out his phone, “I’ll just ask Iris what she thinks.”
“Good idea,” I grinned.
“I just feel like Valentine’s Day proposals are too cliché,” Liam shrugged. “It’s been done so many times.”
I laughed, “I honestly think we’re the wrong people to ask anyways.”
“I know you could probably care less, but my votes for Valentine’s Day,” Kyle stated.
“Well, that’s good,” Zayn smiled to him. “Iris said the same thing.”
“Ha!” Louis shouted in Niall’s face as he pinned him to the floor.
“You shouldn’t listen to me anyways,” Niall grunted. “I’m single.”
I chuckled and shook my head, “We need to get you a girl.”
Friday February 7th
Iris’s POV:
Fast forward a week and you'll see me doing the unimaginable. I never thought I'd be standing on her doorstep, and I highly doubt anyone else would've ever guessed I'd come here. Then again, nobody knows about her since I haven't told one person. One thing I do know for sure is that no one would be happy I'm here.
Here goes nothing. I take a deep breath and hold back all the true emotions I’m feeling just before I knock on the door. I don’t want her to see me and begin pitying me for everything I’ve been through. I just wish she’ll look at me differently than everyone else does. I want her to see a normal person when she answers this door. I want her to see her old friend and feel excited to see me. I don’t need her to know what happened. Not yet anyways.
A familiar face opened the door and beamed as soon as she saw me. “Hello Miracle,” I smiled genuinely at her.
Notes
Dun dun dun...
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Question Time:
Why do you think Iris is at Miracle's place? (For those of you who don't remember who Miracle is, she's Scott's fiance)
I love this story so much!!!
11/18/17