Foreign Exchange
It's close
Nicole’s POV
There was one last birthday near that still needed to be celebrated. That birthday was Harry Styles.
So many birthdays in such little time. First Louis, then Zayns, Nicks, and finally, Harry. All the other birthdays were too far away to even think about. I haven’t gotten proper sleep even though Nicks birthday was over 5 days ago, giving me some time to catch up on sleep, but no.
One thing about me that I wish I could change would be the fact that I worry way too much, so much that it makes me get headaches and break a sweat. I can’t help it. But maybe that’s the caring part of me that I don’t want to get rid of. I don’t want to stop caring about things, and about a certain someone. I numbly hit the ball back over to my tennis partner, Gage, not putting in much effort to playing tennis today. I just went through the motions of hitting the ball, not putting lots of power and strength in each hit.
What do I get Harry? How old is Harry even turning? Would Harry want something special from me? All these pointless thoughts shouted at me. But they weren’t pointless to me,to any other person it would be. I care about these little things and it’s partly because I’m crazy for Harry.
Harry, Harry, Harry, when is he not on my mind? Ugh, I sound obsessed. I don’t like that. It’s gotten to the point where I don’t even remember what was on my mind before I met Harry. Does he even like me? That question constantly shouted at me. Harry and I have gotten closer, more friendly. He now hugs me more and will do sweet things like how he blow dried my hair after I got sick. Is that a sign that he likes me? It’s gotta be..right? NO, it can’t. But..it can. Suddenly, the tennis all hit me square on the forehead, causing me to take a stumble back a bit and drop my tennis racquet.
“Hey! I’ve been trying to get your attention!” the redheaded huffed, gripping his tennis racquet hard and stomping towards the net. I blushed and shuffled over to the net, meeting with him. “What’s your problem today?” He sassed, looking down at me. I sheepishly looked up at him, taking in his frustrated appearance.
“Just think-”
“The only thing you should be thinking about it practice! Do you know how long its been since you have played?” Gage lectured, putting his hands on his hips. His thin lips were pressed in a straight line and his red freckles almost blended with his reddened cheeks.His red hair was slightly damp at the edges and he had a thin layer of sweat on his forehead. He was working harder than I was. He’s serious about this and I’m just lagging on.
“I know I know” I sighed and rubbed my neck. A wave of disappointment washed over me and I bit my lip to keep myself from grumbling. I felt disappointed that I was worrying so much over someone I have a little crush on, or thats what I tell myself. Just a little crush.
“If you know then you will get your heads out of the clouds” Gage sternly spoke. He wasn’t my tennis coach, but boy, did he act like it. I bit my lip harder and looked down at my old tennis shoes. Gage signed and hopped over the tennis net and placed a hand on my shoulder. “Darling” he said, urging me to look up.
“I know that I have to work even harder this year” I said, not exactly wanting to open up to Gage. It was actually not hard to talk to Gage, one being the fact that he was gay and gay people are just so easy to talk to, but I’m just not sure if I want to tell him about this chapter of my life. He can be dramatic sometimes. Gage sighed again and rubbed my shoulder.
“We’ve had enough practice today, I’ll see you here in a week. Have a good weekend” he said, moving away and I visibly froze. Did he mean exactly a week? No no, thats when Harry’s birthday was.
“I-in a week?” I stuttered, looking up at him with big eyes. He raised his eyebrow at me and nodded.
“Yeah, next friday” he said, almost coming out as a question. “Remember, last year you and I would meet every friday just you and me so we can have some partner work? You know, not practice with the other crazies on the team?” He said. I gulped and nodded. Of course I remember. “You can make it right? You so have to make it up to me for today” he smiled and lightly tickled my shoulder. Usually I would have giggled and squirmed away, but I was too solid to feel his light finger traces.
“Yeah, no problem” I forced a smile and he frowned.
“You don’t seem to sure, I mean, it’s oka-”
“No no, I’ll be here” I said, not wanting to let him down. I know how bad this year he really wanted to make it to the top, especially since he was a senior and it was his last year to really make it big. Gage smiled and we walked over to get out bags, quickly packing up and leaving the indoor court. I texted a group text to the boys and Anjelica, asking who was picking me up before going to the locker rooms to take a quick shower.
I didn’t take long, not liking how standing in the shower gave me time to think when I really didn’t want to. I dried myself off, changed, blow dried my hair and waited outside the boys locker room for Gage. I checked my messages, and saw that Louis sent a message saying “it’s a surprise.” I didn’t pay too it and rolled my eyes.
“Lovely, you didn’t have to wait for me” Gage said, walking out of the boys locker room with damp, ginger hair. I shrugged, not even sure myself why I waited for him. Maybe it’s because I still felt bad about not bringing my all today. We walked through the gym and didn’t say anything until we ended up out in front of the gym. I was in such a glum mood. Here I go, worrying again. I know that the next time I see Harry, I’m going to feel guilty to the max.
“Who’s the best?” Gage suddenly said before I could walk away to the parking lot to find whoever was picking me up. I couldn’t help but smile a little. Gage would always pump me up by cheering and rolling those very words off his tongue.
“We the best” I said in a weirdly timid voice.
“Aw, c’mon, I said ‘Who’s the best?’” Gage said, smirking at me.
“We the best” I said more louder.
“I said ‘WHO’S THE BEST?’” he said, slightly bending his knees, knowing well enough that he was lightening up the mood.
“WE THE BEST!” I cheered and high fived Gages hand before fist bumping it like we always did. It was a simple, yet meaningful handshake.
“There’s my baby” he smiled and gave me a hug goodbye. Some people might think it’s weird to be called baby by their gay tennis partner, but I don’t. I was in a great mood now. We both jumped back when there was a loud honk and I looked over to see Harry leaning over from the back seat to honk the horn. Thanks to my random short term memory loss, I forgot about practice on Harrys birthday and wasn’t worried at all even though I thought I would be the next time I saw the sexy british boy. My mood just seemed to enlighten at the sight of my boys and looked at Gage.
“There’s my ride” I said.
“Ooh, who’s the curly head cutie” Gage said, looking at Harry, but Harry looked anything more than cheery. I blushed and lightly smacked his arm.
“Don’t be weird” I said before walking towards Louis van.
“I see how it is!” he yelled and I turned around to roll my eyes at him as I walked backwards. He blew me a kiss and I teasingly caught it before turning back around and jumping in the open van door. I closed it and tossed my tennis bag in the back.
“Hey” I said and looked at everyone in the car. Louis was driving, like always, Liam was in the front seat and Harry was sitting next to me. He was glaring out the window at Gage, who was walking away.
“Hi Nikki!” Liam overly joyed replied, turning his whole body around in the front seat and smiling at me. He looked genuinely happy to see me, thus making me happy.
“Liam!” I said in a joyous voice and smiled at him.
“Louis!” Louis shouted and started to slowly drive out of the parking lot. I smiled and shook my head.
“Yes, hi Louis” I said, reaching over and squeezing his shoulder from behind.
“Ey!” he squealed and wiggled in his seat. I giggled and looked over at Harry who was still glaring at Gage, who was now getting in his car.
“Hey Har-” I started to say, but he snapped his head in my direction.
“Who’s that?” he asked, slightly leaning into me. I blushed and leaned back, even though he wasn’t even that close to me.
“Gage, my tennis partner” I said, looking into those green eyes girls fawn over. One of those girl being me.
“Really? Cool” Liam said, genuinely happy while Harry looked...mad? Something I couldn’t put my finger on it.
“You guys seem really close” Louis said, wiggling his eyebrows at me through the rearview mirror. I smiled and nodded.
“Yeah, this will be my third year being his partner. We really work good together” I said, looking at Harry, waiting for him to smile. It’s a little weird that all I want to do is see Harry smile now a days, those dimples and pink lips got me. They got me bad.
“I don’t like him..” Harry mumbled and looked away from me.
“What? Why?” I asked, completely confused as to why anyone would hate Gage. Well, actually, there is one person who hates Gage, and it’s quite ironic, the person who hates him that is.
“Hazz is just jealous” Louis smiled, turning onto the main road.
“No!” Harry protested, frowning with a pink tint on his creamy cheeks.
“Why would he be jealous?” I asked and thought back to how Harry looked at me earlier.
“I don’t know why, it’s obvious that Gage is a flaming gay” Louis shrugged and Harry blushed more.
“What?” Harry said and Liam, Louis and I all nodded.
“Yeah, Gage is gay” I said as a matter of fact and Harry looked down at his lap. Like the snap of someone's fingers, I realized that Harry was jealous. That was the look he gave me earlier. Gosh, I hate being so slow and not getting things right away. I may be a straight A student and get things fast, but there are just somethings I’m slow at. “OH” I said and blushed.
“What?” Harry pouted and crossed his arms as he looked at me. I looked over to Liam, who was smiling wide.
“It’s okay Harry, no ones taking her away from you” he said, causing me to blush even more.
“I guess I can kind of understand why you would be jealous. I mean, Gage is a hot dude, and he gets to be all close to her” Louis said nonchalantly.
“You think he’s hot?” Liam asked, finally sitting properly in his seat and looking at Louis.
“Oh don’t worry my dearest, I only have eyes for you” Louis joked, placing a hand on Liams knee. Liam swatted his hand away and went ‘ew.’ “Oh don’t act like you don’t love me” Louis said, creepily caressing Liams faint biceps.
“Man hands off” Liam squeaked and pressed up against the door, trying to get as far away from Louis as possible. I smiled and giggled at how Harry was still pouting.
“Ah don’t fret” I said and he gazed at me, batting his long eyelashes. “I know that you just don’t want to loose your friend” I said, choosing my words carefully. I still don’t know if Harry likes me and for all we know, Harry could be jealous just because Gage and I have a handshake. Harry opened his mouth to say something, but then closed it again. Just as I was about to encourage him to speak, Louis shouted.
“Oops, I missed the turn to your house” Louis shouted and took a sharp u-turn.
Crap.
I wasn’t wearing my seatbelt and my body jerked sideways to the right, slamming into Harrys left side. Harrys other side hit the van door and I could hear the van door rattle. I squeezed my eyes shut in pain and groaned. I accidentally elbowed Harrys side and I knew that it wasn’t exactly pain free. Harry quietly grunted, but it was loud enough for me to hear. I slowly opened my eyes and started to lean off him when Louis took another sharp turn and our bodies jerked to the left. My body hit the van door first, then I felt Harrys body hit me and we both yelped in pain. Liam and Louis were too busy giggling and joking around to notice that we were back here being thrown around like a ball being passed between two people. Harrys body was definitely heavy and was crushing me against the door.
“Harry” I gasped and felt a headache slowly building from where my head hit the window. I am so going to kill-
Suddenly we swiftly jerked to the side then jerked forward, slamming into the seats in front of us. “We’re here!” Louis shouted and Harry and I flopped back into our seats, moaning and groaning. Louis looked back at us and frowned at our wincing bodies. He shook his head and tsked at us. “See kids, this is why you wear seatbelts” he joked. If my body wasn’t throbbing, I’d reach out and choke him.
“What?” Liam said and popped his head over the seat and I just knew that he was going to go into daddy mode. “Guys, how many times have I told you to-”
“Nikki!” Calum shouted when he suddenly opened the door. He smiled down at my slumped body and I sheepishly smiled up at the adorable boy.
“Calum” I said, wincing as I sat up. Calums mom showed up behind him with, looking very overwhelmed.
“I’m sorry but they called me into work at the last minute and they need me right now” Cara rushed, stumbling over her words.
“No problem” I smiled and ignored the pain as I practically slid off the car seat and almost landed face first on the ground. I stood up and heard a popping noise as my back satasfyingly cracked.
“Thank you so much, I’ll pay you back double” She said and I shook my head at her.
“I’ve told you, there’s no need to pay me. It’s quite alright. You better get to work before you’re late” I said, shooing her away. Cara was such a friendly woman that it was okay to talk to her like she was my age and treat her like I would treat my close friends.
“Thanks again, oh and hello boys” she said to Liam, Louis and Harry before giving Calum a quick kiss on the cheek, which he wiped off once his mother turned around.
“Hello” They said in perfect, british accented voices, kind of sounding like a sweet harmony. Cara waved goodbye as she sped off. I slightly looked down at Calum and ruffled up his styled hair.
“Have you gotten taller since the last time I’ve seen you?” I asked, noting the obvious height change. I haven’t seen Calum in a while, mostly because he stays after school in the music room to practice whatever instrument he plays.
“You’ve noticed?” Calum beamed like a child would and I smiled at the boy. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, for a fourteen year old he sure acts young. I slightly bit the inside of my cheek at the sudden throb in my head and I totally blew off Louis, Liam and Harry, but I didn’t mean too.
“Of course I have. Probably by the time you’re a freshman in highschool, you’ll be almost taller than me” I said, and led him up the stairs to my condo, forgetting about my tennis bag in the backseat. The front door was unlocked, so we just walked.
“I’m home!” I shouted and took off my converse that I changed into after I showered at the gym.
“Who is it?” Zayn said and I rolled my eyes.
“Katy Perry” I joked and helped Calum take off his shoes since he was having a hard time.
“Oh good, I thought you were that awful girl Nicole. I can’t stand her” Zayn replied and I rolled my eyes.
“Guess who’s with me?” I said, winking at Calum. I walked into the living room with Calum close behind me. Zayn had his legs draped across Nicks lap and drawing in his notebook while Nick tried not to blush. Zayn glanced up at Nick, then glanced at his notebook.
“Whatcha drawing?” Calum curiously asked, walking over to Zayn.
“Hey kiddo” Zayn said, smiling up at the boy. Calum smiled politely before gasping at the drawing.
“Is that Nick?” he asked, looking back and forth between Zayns notebook and Nick.
“Yeah” Zayn said, but not like a show off. He said it like he was humble.
“Hey Nick” I said to Nick while Calum praised Zayn.
“Hey” he said, looking up at me.
“Is this what you guys where doing while I was gone?” I smirked “All over each other?” I teased and Nick rolled his eyes.
“No..” he mumbled. “You have a bump on your head” he said and I frowned, remembering about Louis reckless driving.
“Yeah, all thanks to LOUIS RECKLESS DRIVING” I spoke loudly towards the end of my sentence to make sure Louis heard me.
“Oh no, don’t you blame this on me. You were the one not wearing your seatbelt” Louis sassed, sauntering his fat butt into the living room.
“You still were reckless” I said, ignoring him and walking to the kitchen to get ice. Harry was leaning against the island, shirt off and holding ice to his side. I stopped in my tracks, staring so intently at Harry to notice Niall fumbling around the kitchen. Both sides of his creamy skin were starting to taint with bruises, but that didn’t stop him from having the most sexiest body I’ve ever seen. It was hard not to drool.
“Here” Liam said, appearing out of nowhere and pressing a ice pack to my head. I flinched and snapped out of the trance.
“T-thanks” I stuttered and put my hand over Liams, which was holding the ice pack to my head. I saw Liam visibly flinch and I thought I saw his cheeks start to turn pink.
“It’s nothing, love” he said, moving his hand back and awkwardly looking away. Huh, wonder what that was about.
“I’m never not wearing a seatbelt ever again” Harry groaned as he looked down at his bruises. I had to force myself to look away from him and looked over at Niall. That’s when I noticed the mess.
“Niall” I whined “What are you doing, you’re making a mess!” I said. I didn’t really mind though, I had to clean the kitchen up anyways.
“I just wanted to make cookies for when Anjelica gets back from work” he blushed, wiping flour off of his round cheeks. I smiled at the lovesick, blue eyes puppy and slowly shook my head.
“That’s awfully adorable of you, but why do you even have flour out?” I asked, looking at the utensils and ingredients spread out on the the table.
“Because that’s how you make cookies?” he asked, tilting his head cutely to the side. I giggled and walked over to the refrigerator, still holding the ice pack.
“Niall, we have cookie dough” I said, opening the fridge and pulling out the huge tub cookie dough from the side bin. I closed the refrigerator and shook the tub out to Niall.
“Oh...” he said, blushing even more and slowly taking the tub of cookie dough from me.
“Well you got something right” I said, pointing to the pan and cookie sheets. That seemed to cheer Niall up, for he smiled wide and his blue eyes twinkled.
“Really? Yes” He said triumphantly “I’ll clean up this mess” he added and I shrugged.
“You don’t have to, I had to clean the kitchen anyways” I said, really not minding and glancing back over at Harry. Why did he have to take his shirt off..not that I had a problem with it. No problem at all. Harry caught me looking at him and cheekily smirked.
“Is there something on my face? Or my body?” Harry teased and I blushed madly.
“Liam” I begged for his help, way too embarrassed to come up with something witty to say.
“Hey Guys!” Liam shouted, loud enough for everyone in the condo to hear. He smirked and winked at me before turning around to head into the living room. “Hazz was jealous of Gage” he said, walking out. Harry turned bright red.
“Gage? Ugh not that guy” Nick complained and Niall snickered.
“You know he’s gay right?” Niall snickered. I smirked at Harry. I love payback. Harry rolled his eyes and walked out, leaving me and Niall.
“All the stories we’ve heard of him, you’d think he would figure out that Gage is gay” Niall snickered. I nodded and walked out into the living room where the rest of the boys were making fun of him.?”
“How can you be jealous of Gage?” Nick asked. Nick hates Gages guts, like a lot. And you’d think that since they are both gay they would get along well.
“He was hogging Nikki” Louis laughed and Harry smacked him with his ice pack.
“Oh trust me, he ain't taking her away from you, she likes you too much” Nick said and it was my turn to smack someone with my ice pack. “And the fact that he’s gay” Nick whined, rubbing his arm where I hit him.
“Sounds like you don’t like him much” Calum piped up.
“I hate him” Nick grumbled and Zayn sat up properly, setting his drawing notebook down.
“Did he do something?” Zayn asked cautiously.
“He’s just a perv” Nick huffed and I knew that he didn’t want to talk about it. I’m not sure went down with them myself, all I know is Gage suggested to do some things with Nick. My guess is that they weren’t age appropriate things.
“Did he touch you!?” Zayn suddenly flipped out and grabbed Nicks face.
“N-no” Nick blushed bright red and I sighed. Zayn really doesn’t know the effects he has on that boy.
“He better not touch Nikki” Harry said, glaring at nothing in particular.
“He won’t touch her” Nick said and Zayn wrapped his arm around Nicks shoulder.
“I need help!” Niall yelled from the kitchen. I smiled to myself and put my ice pack down on the coffee table.
“Coming!” I said, but NIall quickly replied before I took another step.
“No! I want NIck! He actually can properly roll and place the cookie dough!” Niall yelled and I pouted, slightly offended. My cookie skills are awesome
“NO! Nicks mine!” Zayn said before leaning back and picking up his sketch book. He then grabbed Nicks chin and turned Nicks head so his face was facing him. Of course Nick blushed and Zayn smiled. “Nick, stop blushing. It’s cute, but it’s kind of hard to draw blush” Zayn said, causing Nick to turn even more red.
“Hey Nikki” Calum randomly said, and I gave him my full attention.
“Yes?” I replied.
“Me, Ashton, Michael and Luke are thinking about making a band” he said with great enthusiasm.
“That’s great” I smiled.
“But don’t they live in Australia?” Louis said, plopping down on the couch with Liam.
“Yeah, but they come and visit and I’ve been practicing. I play the bass guitar, Ashton plays the drums-”
“The drums?” I asked in awe. For some reason, any one who can play the drums I find amazing.
“Yep” Calum smiled.
“What would you call your band?” Harry asked, leaning against the wall.
“Um...I’m not sure” he said.
“It has to be something random, yet totally cool” Nick said, looking at Calum, only resulting in Zayn turning his head back to face him.
“Well it might take time to think of a name” I said.
“Yeah, you have to talk about it to the others” Liam said.
“And you just don’t come up with a name in 5 seconds” Zayn randomly said.
“That’s it!” Calum burst out, causing us to all flinch back.
“What is it?” Harry asked, raising his eyebrow. I love it when he does that, especially shirtless..oh my gosh someone put a shirt on that boy.
“5 seconds!” he said.
“The name of your band is going to be 5 seconds?” Niall snickered from the kitchen.
“No, just part of it. For some reason, I really like it” Calum said.
“Well take your time buddy” Liam said.
“In the meantime” I started to say “Harry, put a shirt on” I said, but didn’t look at him.
“Oh?” He said, and I could hear the smirk in his voice.
“I like it better with his shirt off, don’t you think so?” Zayn teasingly asked Louis.
“Yeah, but I like Liam with his shirt off better” Louis joked.
“Man why you always gotta be like that?” Liam said, furrowing his eyebrows at Louis.
“Because you love me?” He asked, smiling goofily. Gradually, the smell of something burning drifted into the living room.
“Niall!” I squeaked and took off to the kitchen, but slipped and fell face forward because of my socks. Whoever was behind me tripped over me and fell right on top of me. “Oof!” I groaned.
“Sorry” Liam said and started to lift off of me, only to fall back on me with more weight.
“Eh!” Louis yelled and I could feel Liam squirming on top of me to get Louis off of him.
“Louis get off” Liam groaned.
“Doggie pile!” Nick yelled.
“NO NO NO!” Both Liam and I protested, but we were too late. The weight of everyone on top of me took the breath right out of me.
“Guys” I groaned into the floor, feeling the bruises already starting to form.
“Sorry..” NIall said, stepping out of the oven with a pan of burnt cookies.
“Are those cookies?” Calum asked.
“Used to be” Louis said.
“GET OUF!!” I yelled in frustration and thankfully they started getting off of me.
“You okay?” Harry said, picking me up by placing his hands on both sides of my waist. I blushed and when I was stood up right, I turned around and thanked him.
“Ah we weren’t that heavy” Louis said and Nick and Zayn were giggling about something probably ridiculous.
“You all need to lose 500 pounds” I glared at them.
“I’m home!” Anjelica said, and I looked over to see her walking in through the front door.
“Babe!” Niall cheered, shoving the pan in my hands and pouncing on my sister with billions of kisses.
“Why are there so many people in my house?” Anjelica joked, hugging Niall.
“I ask that same question every day” I said, and went back to the kitchen to properly make cookies.
There was one last birthday near that still needed to be celebrated. That birthday was Harry Styles.
So many birthdays in such little time. First Louis, then Zayns, Nicks, and finally, Harry. All the other birthdays were too far away to even think about. I haven’t gotten proper sleep even though Nicks birthday was over 5 days ago, giving me some time to catch up on sleep, but no.
One thing about me that I wish I could change would be the fact that I worry way too much, so much that it makes me get headaches and break a sweat. I can’t help it. But maybe that’s the caring part of me that I don’t want to get rid of. I don’t want to stop caring about things, and about a certain someone. I numbly hit the ball back over to my tennis partner, Gage, not putting in much effort to playing tennis today. I just went through the motions of hitting the ball, not putting lots of power and strength in each hit.
What do I get Harry? How old is Harry even turning? Would Harry want something special from me? All these pointless thoughts shouted at me. But they weren’t pointless to me,to any other person it would be. I care about these little things and it’s partly because I’m crazy for Harry.
Harry, Harry, Harry, when is he not on my mind? Ugh, I sound obsessed. I don’t like that. It’s gotten to the point where I don’t even remember what was on my mind before I met Harry. Does he even like me? That question constantly shouted at me. Harry and I have gotten closer, more friendly. He now hugs me more and will do sweet things like how he blow dried my hair after I got sick. Is that a sign that he likes me? It’s gotta be..right? NO, it can’t. But..it can. Suddenly, the tennis all hit me square on the forehead, causing me to take a stumble back a bit and drop my tennis racquet.
“Hey! I’ve been trying to get your attention!” the redheaded huffed, gripping his tennis racquet hard and stomping towards the net. I blushed and shuffled over to the net, meeting with him. “What’s your problem today?” He sassed, looking down at me. I sheepishly looked up at him, taking in his frustrated appearance.
“Just think-”
“The only thing you should be thinking about it practice! Do you know how long its been since you have played?” Gage lectured, putting his hands on his hips. His thin lips were pressed in a straight line and his red freckles almost blended with his reddened cheeks.His red hair was slightly damp at the edges and he had a thin layer of sweat on his forehead. He was working harder than I was. He’s serious about this and I’m just lagging on.
“I know I know” I sighed and rubbed my neck. A wave of disappointment washed over me and I bit my lip to keep myself from grumbling. I felt disappointed that I was worrying so much over someone I have a little crush on, or thats what I tell myself. Just a little crush.
“If you know then you will get your heads out of the clouds” Gage sternly spoke. He wasn’t my tennis coach, but boy, did he act like it. I bit my lip harder and looked down at my old tennis shoes. Gage signed and hopped over the tennis net and placed a hand on my shoulder. “Darling” he said, urging me to look up.
“I know that I have to work even harder this year” I said, not exactly wanting to open up to Gage. It was actually not hard to talk to Gage, one being the fact that he was gay and gay people are just so easy to talk to, but I’m just not sure if I want to tell him about this chapter of my life. He can be dramatic sometimes. Gage sighed again and rubbed my shoulder.
“We’ve had enough practice today, I’ll see you here in a week. Have a good weekend” he said, moving away and I visibly froze. Did he mean exactly a week? No no, thats when Harry’s birthday was.
“I-in a week?” I stuttered, looking up at him with big eyes. He raised his eyebrow at me and nodded.
“Yeah, next friday” he said, almost coming out as a question. “Remember, last year you and I would meet every friday just you and me so we can have some partner work? You know, not practice with the other crazies on the team?” He said. I gulped and nodded. Of course I remember. “You can make it right? You so have to make it up to me for today” he smiled and lightly tickled my shoulder. Usually I would have giggled and squirmed away, but I was too solid to feel his light finger traces.
“Yeah, no problem” I forced a smile and he frowned.
“You don’t seem to sure, I mean, it’s oka-”
“No no, I’ll be here” I said, not wanting to let him down. I know how bad this year he really wanted to make it to the top, especially since he was a senior and it was his last year to really make it big. Gage smiled and we walked over to get out bags, quickly packing up and leaving the indoor court. I texted a group text to the boys and Anjelica, asking who was picking me up before going to the locker rooms to take a quick shower.
I didn’t take long, not liking how standing in the shower gave me time to think when I really didn’t want to. I dried myself off, changed, blow dried my hair and waited outside the boys locker room for Gage. I checked my messages, and saw that Louis sent a message saying “it’s a surprise.” I didn’t pay too it and rolled my eyes.
“Lovely, you didn’t have to wait for me” Gage said, walking out of the boys locker room with damp, ginger hair. I shrugged, not even sure myself why I waited for him. Maybe it’s because I still felt bad about not bringing my all today. We walked through the gym and didn’t say anything until we ended up out in front of the gym. I was in such a glum mood. Here I go, worrying again. I know that the next time I see Harry, I’m going to feel guilty to the max.
“Who’s the best?” Gage suddenly said before I could walk away to the parking lot to find whoever was picking me up. I couldn’t help but smile a little. Gage would always pump me up by cheering and rolling those very words off his tongue.
“We the best” I said in a weirdly timid voice.
“Aw, c’mon, I said ‘Who’s the best?’” Gage said, smirking at me.
“We the best” I said more louder.
“I said ‘WHO’S THE BEST?’” he said, slightly bending his knees, knowing well enough that he was lightening up the mood.
“WE THE BEST!” I cheered and high fived Gages hand before fist bumping it like we always did. It was a simple, yet meaningful handshake.
“There’s my baby” he smiled and gave me a hug goodbye. Some people might think it’s weird to be called baby by their gay tennis partner, but I don’t. I was in a great mood now. We both jumped back when there was a loud honk and I looked over to see Harry leaning over from the back seat to honk the horn. Thanks to my random short term memory loss, I forgot about practice on Harrys birthday and wasn’t worried at all even though I thought I would be the next time I saw the sexy british boy. My mood just seemed to enlighten at the sight of my boys and looked at Gage.
“There’s my ride” I said.
“Ooh, who’s the curly head cutie” Gage said, looking at Harry, but Harry looked anything more than cheery. I blushed and lightly smacked his arm.
“Don’t be weird” I said before walking towards Louis van.
“I see how it is!” he yelled and I turned around to roll my eyes at him as I walked backwards. He blew me a kiss and I teasingly caught it before turning back around and jumping in the open van door. I closed it and tossed my tennis bag in the back.
“Hey” I said and looked at everyone in the car. Louis was driving, like always, Liam was in the front seat and Harry was sitting next to me. He was glaring out the window at Gage, who was walking away.
“Hi Nikki!” Liam overly joyed replied, turning his whole body around in the front seat and smiling at me. He looked genuinely happy to see me, thus making me happy.
“Liam!” I said in a joyous voice and smiled at him.
“Louis!” Louis shouted and started to slowly drive out of the parking lot. I smiled and shook my head.
“Yes, hi Louis” I said, reaching over and squeezing his shoulder from behind.
“Ey!” he squealed and wiggled in his seat. I giggled and looked over at Harry who was still glaring at Gage, who was now getting in his car.
“Hey Har-” I started to say, but he snapped his head in my direction.
“Who’s that?” he asked, slightly leaning into me. I blushed and leaned back, even though he wasn’t even that close to me.
“Gage, my tennis partner” I said, looking into those green eyes girls fawn over. One of those girl being me.
“Really? Cool” Liam said, genuinely happy while Harry looked...mad? Something I couldn’t put my finger on it.
“You guys seem really close” Louis said, wiggling his eyebrows at me through the rearview mirror. I smiled and nodded.
“Yeah, this will be my third year being his partner. We really work good together” I said, looking at Harry, waiting for him to smile. It’s a little weird that all I want to do is see Harry smile now a days, those dimples and pink lips got me. They got me bad.
“I don’t like him..” Harry mumbled and looked away from me.
“What? Why?” I asked, completely confused as to why anyone would hate Gage. Well, actually, there is one person who hates Gage, and it’s quite ironic, the person who hates him that is.
“Hazz is just jealous” Louis smiled, turning onto the main road.
“No!” Harry protested, frowning with a pink tint on his creamy cheeks.
“Why would he be jealous?” I asked and thought back to how Harry looked at me earlier.
“I don’t know why, it’s obvious that Gage is a flaming gay” Louis shrugged and Harry blushed more.
“What?” Harry said and Liam, Louis and I all nodded.
“Yeah, Gage is gay” I said as a matter of fact and Harry looked down at his lap. Like the snap of someone's fingers, I realized that Harry was jealous. That was the look he gave me earlier. Gosh, I hate being so slow and not getting things right away. I may be a straight A student and get things fast, but there are just somethings I’m slow at. “OH” I said and blushed.
“What?” Harry pouted and crossed his arms as he looked at me. I looked over to Liam, who was smiling wide.
“It’s okay Harry, no ones taking her away from you” he said, causing me to blush even more.
“I guess I can kind of understand why you would be jealous. I mean, Gage is a hot dude, and he gets to be all close to her” Louis said nonchalantly.
“You think he’s hot?” Liam asked, finally sitting properly in his seat and looking at Louis.
“Oh don’t worry my dearest, I only have eyes for you” Louis joked, placing a hand on Liams knee. Liam swatted his hand away and went ‘ew.’ “Oh don’t act like you don’t love me” Louis said, creepily caressing Liams faint biceps.
“Man hands off” Liam squeaked and pressed up against the door, trying to get as far away from Louis as possible. I smiled and giggled at how Harry was still pouting.
“Ah don’t fret” I said and he gazed at me, batting his long eyelashes. “I know that you just don’t want to loose your friend” I said, choosing my words carefully. I still don’t know if Harry likes me and for all we know, Harry could be jealous just because Gage and I have a handshake. Harry opened his mouth to say something, but then closed it again. Just as I was about to encourage him to speak, Louis shouted.
“Oops, I missed the turn to your house” Louis shouted and took a sharp u-turn.
Crap.
I wasn’t wearing my seatbelt and my body jerked sideways to the right, slamming into Harrys left side. Harrys other side hit the van door and I could hear the van door rattle. I squeezed my eyes shut in pain and groaned. I accidentally elbowed Harrys side and I knew that it wasn’t exactly pain free. Harry quietly grunted, but it was loud enough for me to hear. I slowly opened my eyes and started to lean off him when Louis took another sharp turn and our bodies jerked to the left. My body hit the van door first, then I felt Harrys body hit me and we both yelped in pain. Liam and Louis were too busy giggling and joking around to notice that we were back here being thrown around like a ball being passed between two people. Harrys body was definitely heavy and was crushing me against the door.
“Harry” I gasped and felt a headache slowly building from where my head hit the window. I am so going to kill-
Suddenly we swiftly jerked to the side then jerked forward, slamming into the seats in front of us. “We’re here!” Louis shouted and Harry and I flopped back into our seats, moaning and groaning. Louis looked back at us and frowned at our wincing bodies. He shook his head and tsked at us. “See kids, this is why you wear seatbelts” he joked. If my body wasn’t throbbing, I’d reach out and choke him.
“What?” Liam said and popped his head over the seat and I just knew that he was going to go into daddy mode. “Guys, how many times have I told you to-”
“Nikki!” Calum shouted when he suddenly opened the door. He smiled down at my slumped body and I sheepishly smiled up at the adorable boy.
“Calum” I said, wincing as I sat up. Calums mom showed up behind him with, looking very overwhelmed.
“I’m sorry but they called me into work at the last minute and they need me right now” Cara rushed, stumbling over her words.
“No problem” I smiled and ignored the pain as I practically slid off the car seat and almost landed face first on the ground. I stood up and heard a popping noise as my back satasfyingly cracked.
“Thank you so much, I’ll pay you back double” She said and I shook my head at her.
“I’ve told you, there’s no need to pay me. It’s quite alright. You better get to work before you’re late” I said, shooing her away. Cara was such a friendly woman that it was okay to talk to her like she was my age and treat her like I would treat my close friends.
“Thanks again, oh and hello boys” she said to Liam, Louis and Harry before giving Calum a quick kiss on the cheek, which he wiped off once his mother turned around.
“Hello” They said in perfect, british accented voices, kind of sounding like a sweet harmony. Cara waved goodbye as she sped off. I slightly looked down at Calum and ruffled up his styled hair.
“Have you gotten taller since the last time I’ve seen you?” I asked, noting the obvious height change. I haven’t seen Calum in a while, mostly because he stays after school in the music room to practice whatever instrument he plays.
“You’ve noticed?” Calum beamed like a child would and I smiled at the boy. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, for a fourteen year old he sure acts young. I slightly bit the inside of my cheek at the sudden throb in my head and I totally blew off Louis, Liam and Harry, but I didn’t mean too.
“Of course I have. Probably by the time you’re a freshman in highschool, you’ll be almost taller than me” I said, and led him up the stairs to my condo, forgetting about my tennis bag in the backseat. The front door was unlocked, so we just walked.
“I’m home!” I shouted and took off my converse that I changed into after I showered at the gym.
“Who is it?” Zayn said and I rolled my eyes.
“Katy Perry” I joked and helped Calum take off his shoes since he was having a hard time.
“Oh good, I thought you were that awful girl Nicole. I can’t stand her” Zayn replied and I rolled my eyes.
“Guess who’s with me?” I said, winking at Calum. I walked into the living room with Calum close behind me. Zayn had his legs draped across Nicks lap and drawing in his notebook while Nick tried not to blush. Zayn glanced up at Nick, then glanced at his notebook.
“Whatcha drawing?” Calum curiously asked, walking over to Zayn.
“Hey kiddo” Zayn said, smiling up at the boy. Calum smiled politely before gasping at the drawing.
“Is that Nick?” he asked, looking back and forth between Zayns notebook and Nick.
“Yeah” Zayn said, but not like a show off. He said it like he was humble.
“Hey Nick” I said to Nick while Calum praised Zayn.
“Hey” he said, looking up at me.
“Is this what you guys where doing while I was gone?” I smirked “All over each other?” I teased and Nick rolled his eyes.
“No..” he mumbled. “You have a bump on your head” he said and I frowned, remembering about Louis reckless driving.
“Yeah, all thanks to LOUIS RECKLESS DRIVING” I spoke loudly towards the end of my sentence to make sure Louis heard me.
“Oh no, don’t you blame this on me. You were the one not wearing your seatbelt” Louis sassed, sauntering his fat butt into the living room.
“You still were reckless” I said, ignoring him and walking to the kitchen to get ice. Harry was leaning against the island, shirt off and holding ice to his side. I stopped in my tracks, staring so intently at Harry to notice Niall fumbling around the kitchen. Both sides of his creamy skin were starting to taint with bruises, but that didn’t stop him from having the most sexiest body I’ve ever seen. It was hard not to drool.
“Here” Liam said, appearing out of nowhere and pressing a ice pack to my head. I flinched and snapped out of the trance.
“T-thanks” I stuttered and put my hand over Liams, which was holding the ice pack to my head. I saw Liam visibly flinch and I thought I saw his cheeks start to turn pink.
“It’s nothing, love” he said, moving his hand back and awkwardly looking away. Huh, wonder what that was about.
“I’m never not wearing a seatbelt ever again” Harry groaned as he looked down at his bruises. I had to force myself to look away from him and looked over at Niall. That’s when I noticed the mess.
“Niall” I whined “What are you doing, you’re making a mess!” I said. I didn’t really mind though, I had to clean the kitchen up anyways.
“I just wanted to make cookies for when Anjelica gets back from work” he blushed, wiping flour off of his round cheeks. I smiled at the lovesick, blue eyes puppy and slowly shook my head.
“That’s awfully adorable of you, but why do you even have flour out?” I asked, looking at the utensils and ingredients spread out on the the table.
“Because that’s how you make cookies?” he asked, tilting his head cutely to the side. I giggled and walked over to the refrigerator, still holding the ice pack.
“Niall, we have cookie dough” I said, opening the fridge and pulling out the huge tub cookie dough from the side bin. I closed the refrigerator and shook the tub out to Niall.
“Oh...” he said, blushing even more and slowly taking the tub of cookie dough from me.
“Well you got something right” I said, pointing to the pan and cookie sheets. That seemed to cheer Niall up, for he smiled wide and his blue eyes twinkled.
“Really? Yes” He said triumphantly “I’ll clean up this mess” he added and I shrugged.
“You don’t have to, I had to clean the kitchen anyways” I said, really not minding and glancing back over at Harry. Why did he have to take his shirt off..not that I had a problem with it. No problem at all. Harry caught me looking at him and cheekily smirked.
“Is there something on my face? Or my body?” Harry teased and I blushed madly.
“Liam” I begged for his help, way too embarrassed to come up with something witty to say.
“Hey Guys!” Liam shouted, loud enough for everyone in the condo to hear. He smirked and winked at me before turning around to head into the living room. “Hazz was jealous of Gage” he said, walking out. Harry turned bright red.
“Gage? Ugh not that guy” Nick complained and Niall snickered.
“You know he’s gay right?” Niall snickered. I smirked at Harry. I love payback. Harry rolled his eyes and walked out, leaving me and Niall.
“All the stories we’ve heard of him, you’d think he would figure out that Gage is gay” Niall snickered. I nodded and walked out into the living room where the rest of the boys were making fun of him.?”
“How can you be jealous of Gage?” Nick asked. Nick hates Gages guts, like a lot. And you’d think that since they are both gay they would get along well.
“He was hogging Nikki” Louis laughed and Harry smacked him with his ice pack.
“Oh trust me, he ain't taking her away from you, she likes you too much” Nick said and it was my turn to smack someone with my ice pack. “And the fact that he’s gay” Nick whined, rubbing his arm where I hit him.
“Sounds like you don’t like him much” Calum piped up.
“I hate him” Nick grumbled and Zayn sat up properly, setting his drawing notebook down.
“Did he do something?” Zayn asked cautiously.
“He’s just a perv” Nick huffed and I knew that he didn’t want to talk about it. I’m not sure went down with them myself, all I know is Gage suggested to do some things with Nick. My guess is that they weren’t age appropriate things.
“Did he touch you!?” Zayn suddenly flipped out and grabbed Nicks face.
“N-no” Nick blushed bright red and I sighed. Zayn really doesn’t know the effects he has on that boy.
“He better not touch Nikki” Harry said, glaring at nothing in particular.
“He won’t touch her” Nick said and Zayn wrapped his arm around Nicks shoulder.
“I need help!” Niall yelled from the kitchen. I smiled to myself and put my ice pack down on the coffee table.
“Coming!” I said, but NIall quickly replied before I took another step.
“No! I want NIck! He actually can properly roll and place the cookie dough!” Niall yelled and I pouted, slightly offended. My cookie skills are awesome
“NO! Nicks mine!” Zayn said before leaning back and picking up his sketch book. He then grabbed Nicks chin and turned Nicks head so his face was facing him. Of course Nick blushed and Zayn smiled. “Nick, stop blushing. It’s cute, but it’s kind of hard to draw blush” Zayn said, causing Nick to turn even more red.
“Hey Nikki” Calum randomly said, and I gave him my full attention.
“Yes?” I replied.
“Me, Ashton, Michael and Luke are thinking about making a band” he said with great enthusiasm.
“That’s great” I smiled.
“But don’t they live in Australia?” Louis said, plopping down on the couch with Liam.
“Yeah, but they come and visit and I’ve been practicing. I play the bass guitar, Ashton plays the drums-”
“The drums?” I asked in awe. For some reason, any one who can play the drums I find amazing.
“Yep” Calum smiled.
“What would you call your band?” Harry asked, leaning against the wall.
“Um...I’m not sure” he said.
“It has to be something random, yet totally cool” Nick said, looking at Calum, only resulting in Zayn turning his head back to face him.
“Well it might take time to think of a name” I said.
“Yeah, you have to talk about it to the others” Liam said.
“And you just don’t come up with a name in 5 seconds” Zayn randomly said.
“That’s it!” Calum burst out, causing us to all flinch back.
“What is it?” Harry asked, raising his eyebrow. I love it when he does that, especially shirtless..oh my gosh someone put a shirt on that boy.
“5 seconds!” he said.
“The name of your band is going to be 5 seconds?” Niall snickered from the kitchen.
“No, just part of it. For some reason, I really like it” Calum said.
“Well take your time buddy” Liam said.
“In the meantime” I started to say “Harry, put a shirt on” I said, but didn’t look at him.
“Oh?” He said, and I could hear the smirk in his voice.
“I like it better with his shirt off, don’t you think so?” Zayn teasingly asked Louis.
“Yeah, but I like Liam with his shirt off better” Louis joked.
“Man why you always gotta be like that?” Liam said, furrowing his eyebrows at Louis.
“Because you love me?” He asked, smiling goofily. Gradually, the smell of something burning drifted into the living room.
“Niall!” I squeaked and took off to the kitchen, but slipped and fell face forward because of my socks. Whoever was behind me tripped over me and fell right on top of me. “Oof!” I groaned.
“Sorry” Liam said and started to lift off of me, only to fall back on me with more weight.
“Eh!” Louis yelled and I could feel Liam squirming on top of me to get Louis off of him.
“Louis get off” Liam groaned.
“Doggie pile!” Nick yelled.
“NO NO NO!” Both Liam and I protested, but we were too late. The weight of everyone on top of me took the breath right out of me.
“Guys” I groaned into the floor, feeling the bruises already starting to form.
“Sorry..” NIall said, stepping out of the oven with a pan of burnt cookies.
“Are those cookies?” Calum asked.
“Used to be” Louis said.
“GET OUF!!” I yelled in frustration and thankfully they started getting off of me.
“You okay?” Harry said, picking me up by placing his hands on both sides of my waist. I blushed and when I was stood up right, I turned around and thanked him.
“Ah we weren’t that heavy” Louis said and Nick and Zayn were giggling about something probably ridiculous.
“You all need to lose 500 pounds” I glared at them.
“I’m home!” Anjelica said, and I looked over to see her walking in through the front door.
“Babe!” Niall cheered, shoving the pan in my hands and pouncing on my sister with billions of kisses.
“Why are there so many people in my house?” Anjelica joked, hugging Niall.
“I ask that same question every day” I said, and went back to the kitchen to properly make cookies.
LOVE!!!
5/23/14