We Figured It Out

I wasn’t sure if Leah and I eventually fell asleep or went into food comas. We ate so much and talked for hours like the good old days. It was nice to have my best friend all to myself. Not have to share her with Graham or have her be in another country. Of course she asked me about Niall but I let her know there was nothing to tell. What we had was over and we’ve just coincided at two different locations by chance.

Leah left mid morning to continue with her wedding planning. She was going to work out the seating arrangement with her wedding planner since the ceremony was coming up fast. I was very happy I had the chance to work from home today and could in turn go and pick up my maid of honor dress. I was getting ready when Niall’s forgotten phone began to ring.

I popped my head into the kitchen and saw the caller ID was Mark. I didn’t know what to do so I didn’t answer. The phone kept ringing and after the third call I decided to finally answer.

“Niall Horan’s phone. He’s not here right now, would you like to call back and leave a message?” I said quickly into the phone.
“No need to. I see I did leave my phone at your place.” Niall responded from the other side.
“Yes, you did. It really took you this long to notice your phone is gone?” I asked smirking and leaning against the counter.
“No, but I knew you were with Leah and didn’t want to interrupt the girl’s night.” He explained making me smile.
“Well, that’s very nice of you.” I said.
“I do need my phone, though. When and where can I get it back?”
“Um, I guess whenever. I’m working from home today so I’ll be here. Although right now I’m getting ready to go pick up my dress for Leah’s wedding.” I explained as I juggled an apple from the fruit basket in my hand.
“Oh well that’s perfect! I can drop by in a few and take you to get your dress. I noticed you haven’t learned to drive in London yet.” Niall offered in a rather cheery tone.
“Ok that sounds wonderful.” I agreed and the smile on my face would surely leave my cheeks sore.
“Great! Be there in 20... but hey in turn you have to do me a favor. I’ll let you know what it is later.” And with that, Niall hung up the phone leaving me wondering what he was on about.

I checked the time on my phone as I heard a knock at my door. I wasn’t expecting anyone so it was probably Niall but it surprised me just how fast he actually got here. Opening the door, I was met by the bluest eyes I have ever seen. The dark denim shirt he was wearing only made the color of his eyes intensify.

“Ready?” Niall asked as he leaned against the frame of the door.
“Yes, let me grab my purse.” I said before hurrying inside and grabbing my purse and Niall’s phone off the dining table. “Here you go.” I handed Niall his phone which he immediately inserted into his pocket.

The ride to the bridal store was mostly silent with music from the radio filling the car. It wasn’t an awkward silence at all. I felt we both just enjoyed the ride. Niall parked on the street in front of the bridal boutique Leah had chosen for her dress and bridesmaids dresses. Aside from her mom, I was the only one who had seen her dress and it was absolutely beautiful.

Even though I insisted Niall wait for me in the car, he got out and went inside the boutique with me. It was a small, hidden gem on the outskirts of London so surely no one would recognize him anyway. The shop was empty since it was early and that was a plus.

“Hello. I’m here to pick up my dress. The name is Zoe Allen.” I informed the elderly woman behind the counter who smiled and nodded before heading to the back.

A few minutes passed when she brought out a black garment bag and spread it carefully over the counter. She began to unzip the bag to reveal the dress. It was a deep purple color with a sweetheart neckline. Even though I had come in to get it fitted, the woman insisted I try it on one more time.

I felt a bit self conscious knowing Niall was there but I wanted to look perfect as Leah’s maid of honor so I agreed. I took the dress with me to the dressing room to the side of the shop and tried it on.

“It looks great!” I shouted from inside the changing room hoping the woman heard me.
“Come out here dear. Let us see. I want to make sure myself that it really is perfect.” The woman insisted so I did as she said.

I stepped out of the room and immediately my eyes fell on Niall’s. The sparkle in his eye upon seeing me made me happy. I placed my arms in the air and the lady moved around me checking every detail of the fit.

“Looks great, honey. You’re going to be a very beautiful bride one day.” The woman said as she stepped back and chuckled lightly elbowing Niall.

I widened my eyes at her action and could feel the heat quickly rising to my cheeks. After that I hurried back inside and took off the dress to get into my regular clothes.
Even though we were back in the car, I still felt embarrassed from the lady’s light-hearted joke. It’s not like she knew our history so I can’t blame her but it still put both of us in an uncomfortable position.

“So what was this favor you wanted in return?” I asked as Niall pulled out into the street.
“Glad you asked. Well, you know how I mentioned I’m moving back to London full time? Well, I’m selling my flat and buying a new property.” He said looking at me making sure I was still on board. “I was hoping you’d house hunt with me. I value your opinion a lot. I mean since you did choose that amazing house in LA.” Niall said making me a bit emotional.

The house in LA... the house I chose because I thought we’d be living in it now, happy and in love. Instead it was the house where our story ended. Maybe the house was cursed.

“Oh, I don’t know...” I bit my lip nervously.
“Why not, Zoe? I truly believe you can help me choose the right property.” Niall insisted and I realized I didn’t have a real reason not to go. I couldn’t admit how I felt about the other house so I agreed.

This shall be interesting.

Notes

Hi! Hope y'all enjoy this chapter! Gah. I love writing these two together again. I've missed them! Let me know what you think. Also, Happy Thanksgiving to those who observe the holiday! Hope y'all have a great one.

237 DAYS UNTIL I SEE NIALL!!!