As I walk through the crowd, I catch a glimpse of Harry. “Hey,” he calls out, and I turn to see him looking hopeful. Damn, he looks good. “Oh, hey mate,” I reply, trying to keep it casual. “How are you?” he asks. “I’m good, you?” I respond, now fully facing him. “Well considering I just ate, I’m doing okay,” he says, and I can sense the awkwardness hanging in the air.

Just then, Lottie appears behind me. “Louis!” she exclaims, and I can’t help but smile at her enthusiasm. “Oh hey Lottie,” Harry greets her. “Hi Harry!” she replies excitedly, grabbing his arm. They start chatting, and I’m about to join in when Niall suddenly pops up, grabbing Lottie by the waist and startling her. “OH MY GOD NIALL!” she yells, hitting him lightly. “WHY DID YOU DO THAT!”

“Wait, so how do y’all know each other?” Niall asks, looking between them. “Oh we met—” Lottie begins, but Harry cuts her off. “I’m friends with her brother.” I notice Lottie’s smile turn a bit suspicious. “Yeah, friends,” she says, her tone teasing. “What, we are?” Harry responds, walking over to me and wrapping his arms around me. “Right?” he looks at me, and I can’t help but smile back. “No, we aren’t,” I say, “We’re besties,” returning his hug.

“That's the gayest shit I’ve ever seen,” Gemma chimes in, and I roll my eyes. “And I live with him.” Harry reacts, “The fuck that suppose to mean?” as he lets go of me and grabs Gemma. “I should tell mom to kick you out,” he jokes. “But you’ll get lonely,” she replies, trying to stifle her laughter.

“Aww,” Harry says, hugging her tightly around the neck. “Gem, you’re so sweet!” She tries to push him away, but he holds on. “HARRY! LET GOO!” she yells, and I can’t help but chuckle. “Oh my god, such a baby,” he teases as he finally releases her. “I’m literally older than you,” she retorts, fixing her hair. “Okay, and?” he replies, clearly enjoying the banter.