#Horan

[burningred1989]

UNDERDOG

A/N: First ever Niall fic,, hope y’all like it <33

Niall feels down when he sees the other boys’ lines are full of fans wanting to meet them but there are barely any fans lined up for him, until he sees a girl holding a photo album.

MASTERLIST

<<<<<

The meet-and-greet was in full swing, the buzzing energy of the crowd filling the room with excitement. Niall Horan sat at his designated spot, his heart pounding a little harder than usual. Fans were lining up, eagerly waiting to meet the boys, but as he glanced around, he couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment. The line for Harry, Liam, Louis, and Zayn was growing longer by the minute, while his section remained almost empty. He tried to smile, tried to keep his spirits up for his bandmates, but the loneliness of the moment was almost overwhelming.

Niall had always been the supportive one, the easy-going guy who would never let his insecurities show. But today, they seemed to creep in uninvited. He knew he shouldn’t feel like this; after all, he was part of the most famous boy band in the world. Yet, as he watched the other boys interact with their fans, he felt a sense of being overlooked, like an underdog in the shadows of the others.

He let out a quiet sigh, his hand resting on the table in front of him, his gaze wandering across the room. That’s when he saw her.

A girl, no more than 2 or 3 years younger than him, stood at the edge of the line. Her long hair framed her face perfectly, and she had an aura of quiet confidence that immediately caught his attention. She wasn’t like the others—she wasn’t screaming or jumping with excitement—but there was something about her that stood out. She smiled shyly, her eyes locking with his for a brief moment, and Niall felt something stir inside him. It was as if she had snapped him out of his trance.

"Hi, Niall," she said softly, her voice warm and kind. "Do you mind signing this?"

She handed him a picture, one of him playing his guitar on stage, his face lit up with passion as he strummed. Niall’s heart skipped a beat as he took the photo, his eyes scanning it. "Where’d you get this?" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

The girl laughed softly, a sound that made Niall’s chest tighten. "Oh, I took it when I went to your guys’ show. I brought an album too, if you want to see?"

Niall’s eyes lit up. "You brought an album?" He looked at her with genuine excitement, his earlier worries momentarily forgotten. "Of course, I’d love to see it."

She handed him a small, worn album, and Niall’s hands shook slightly as he flipped it open. Each page was filled with photos from the tour—some of him on stage, some of the other boys, and many of the band together. But as he turned the pages, it became clear that the majority of the photos were of him. His heart swelled in his chest, a lump forming in his throat. It was overwhelming to see how much effort she had put into capturing moments of him, moments that he often thought went unnoticed.

"If you couldn’t tell, you’re my favorite member," she said with a playful grin, her voice light and teasing.

Niall chuckled, his heart racing. "Really?" he asked, a soft smile tugging at his lips. "Well, I’m glad to hear that."

He paused for a moment, then looked up at her, his expression sincere. "Can I keep this?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "It means a lot to me."

The girl’s face softened, and she nodded. "Of course, you can. It’s yours."

Niall felt a warmth spread through him. He had always been the one to encourage his fans, to make them feel special, but this moment was different. This girl, this fan, had made him feel seen in a way he never expected. She had made him feel important, like he wasn’t just the guy who played guitar in the background. He was more than that to her.

"Thank you," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "This really means a lot to me."

She smiled brightly, her eyes sparkling. "No problem, Niall. It’s the least I can do."

She then hesitated for a moment, a shy smile spreading across her face. "Can we take a photo?" she asked, her voice hopeful.

Niall’s heart skipped another beat, and without thinking, he slid his arm around her shoulders. The moment their bodies touched, a strange fluttering sensation filled his chest. He hadn’t expected it, but it was there—this rush of warmth and excitement, like a thousand butterflies had suddenly taken flight in his stomach.

Y/N leaned into him, her head resting gently against his shoulder as the photo was taken. Niall’s breath caught in his throat as he looked down at her, the softness of the moment making his heart race even faster. He wasn’t sure what it was, but there was something about her that made him feel alive, something about the way she fit perfectly against him that made him feel like he mattered.

When the photo was done, Y/N pulled away, her smile wide and bright. "Thanks, Niall. I’ll see you around," she said, waving as she turned to leave.

Niall watched her walk away, his gaze lingering on her even as she disappeared into the crowd. She was the first fan who had made him feel like more than just a background member of the band, the first to make him feel like he truly mattered. The butterflies in his stomach didn’t fade as she left, and for the first time in a long while, he felt like he wasn’t just the underdog.

As he looked down at the album in his hands, he realized that this moment, this one small interaction, had changed everything for him. Y/N had made him feel seen, and he would never forget it.

PART 2

[narryskittens]

whatever you say beautiful

[burningred1989]

MASTERLIST

A/N: More fics, coming soon…

<<<<<

Harry Styles

The Weight of the Night

The Interview | PART 2

A Budding Connection | PART 2: The Shift | PART 3: Bridges to Mend | PART 4: Cracks in the Wall | PART 5: The Contract Ends | PART 6: Every Breath You Take

She | PART 2: Cherry Scented Vinyl Shop | PART 3: Vogue Cover

Missed Note

<<<<<

Niall Horan

Underdog | PART 2 | PART 3

<<<<<

Enjoy reading <33

[undertheniall]

THE CUTEST 🥰

[lovintasteslike]

Stone Cold Under Your Feet

One where drunk actions have harsh consequences

Word count: 700+

a/n: now whyd this actually take me so long. the ending is so trash. also I just saw a pic of niall getting kfc with basil standing behind him idk why that's so funny to me. anyways send me requests plsss

You wake to a sharp ringing and a glow illuminating the room from your bedside table, interrupting your dream of...who knows what. You think it must have been a good one as your brain tries to grasp onto sleep again.

Your arm remains sprawled onto your right hand side of the bed, Niall's side, as your brain processes the noise coming from behind you.

Once the ringing subsided, your eyes start to droop, breathing slowing, until you perk up, finally realizing that Niall hasn't come home from his night out with the boys.

Thought finally enters your brain as you reach your hand back in the direction of your phone, mindlessly trying to find it in the dark of your bedroom. You brush your fingers along it, then grasp it, bringing it to your face. Your eyes squint to adjust to the light. As you click on the 'missed call' notification, Deo's caller id returns to the screen.

You slide your finger across the screen to accept the call.

"Hello," You speak first, your voice groggy.

"Ya gotta come down 'ere, y/n."

"Hm? Whaddya mean..."

"They're saying Niall broke his foot. We're at t'emergency room by Queen's Arms. Y'might wanna see this."

The remaining drowsiness quickly drains out of you as you hear the words, "emergency room," out of Niall's cousins mouth. You throw the comforter off your body and rush to find some clothing, grabbing the first thing in sight. His beloved Speak Up sweatshirt.

"The emergency room- wha- why hasn't Niall called me." In a scramble to start the Range Rover (which you hate driving because of it's enormous size), your phone falls beneath the seats.

"Ah mate, he's completely out of it a' t'moment"

"Like you're any better," you mumble under your breath. "I- just- I'm coming, okay? I'm ten minutes out. Don't do anything stupid, I'm begging you."

Before he could even take a breath to respond, you hastily grab your phone, ending the call to focus on the road in front.

...

The emergency room practically empty this late at night, or...early in the morning, whatever it may be, the doctor leads you to your boyfriend. He pulls the curtain back to reveal Niall laying on the bed, eyes shut and tugging his fingers through his hair. His leg is propped up at the foot of the bed where a nurse stands, wrapping his leg with cloth.

She looks back towards you.

"Are you the spouse?"

Niall's eyes shoot open, lifting his head just enough to be able to make eye contact with you. Your lips tug slightly at the sight of Niall's distressed position, but you hold back. You look back to the nurse, sarcastically sighing.

"Unfortunately so," you let out humorously.

The kind nurse smiles. "I'll excuse myself to give you two some privacy."

You nod at her, mouthing a thank you.

Niall sits there with his hands in his lap, one resting on his thigh. You look at him with a sympathetic glance before moving closer, taking a seat beside him. His head falls onto your shoulder and your hand subconsciously comes up to play with his hair, offering him whatever comfort you can give.

Niall, glossy eyed either from the pain or the pints, looks up at you.

"Did they tell y'what happened?"

"Had to pry it out of Capaldi, but yea..."

A beat of silence goes by before he starts again. "Why'd ya come 'ere?" You look down at him, raising your eyebrows. "You'll be tired when ya go t'work tomorrow."

You click your tongue and nod your head side to side, telling him no. "Your foot is one step away from dangling off and you're worried about my sleep."

"Ya wanna see it?" He asks, grabbing the X-ray papers from the side of the bed. "It's gnarly stuff."

He opens the folded paper and you grimace in disgust at the sight of ligaments torn and misaligned from his foot.

"'M not leaving you alone at home while you're like THAT"

"Yer gonna stay home for me?" The puppy dog eyes stared lovingly at your face. "Awww," he says, placing a hand over his heart. He squeezes you tight in a hug. "Love ya so much, petal."

You groan. "God, you're so insufferable," rolling your eyes, dramatically.

"Ya love me. Want to take care of me. Ya love when 'm a li'l stupid after a few pints."

You cross your arms over your chest.

"Keep at it and I'll whack you so hard, you'll stay stupid."

"Oop- yes ma'am"

You raise your eyebrows at him, a breath of laughter escaping both of your lungs as Niall's head falls onto your shoulder. Peace consuming the both of you, despite this ridiculous situation.

[aguuuua]

la mejor secuencia 💙💚❤️💛🧡

[harry-vodkastraightnogay-styles]

we dont talk enough about how xfactor used a 16-year-old harry styles, possibly dating a 30-year-old, as entertainment and tried to romanticzie it

or how they essentially just got away with it

[redgibsonbigsby]

I need to talk to SOMEBODY about the way his eyes are lighting up while eating A FRENCH FRY here PLS

[mcronin4]

These two going at it all match amused me to no end.

And then their hug at the end was the icing on the cake.

[sparkrls]

BICEPS!!! BARK BARK RFFF GRRR BARK

[kym-truestory]

Happy Niall Horan Day!!!

Ok, maybe it’s not exactly that BUT it is the birthday of this beautiful boy, so happy birthday Niall, love you so much, you’re amazing & I hope you had the best day

[narryskittens]

BRINGING A FAN ON STAGE

niall horan you will be the death of me 😭

[burningred1989]

UNDERDOG PT. 2

A/N: Part 2 of the “Underdog”

After spotting the girl who made him feel better in the crowd at a show, he wanted to meet her again but to his disappointment, she already left with her friend. To help with the disappointment he flicked through the pages of her album where he saw her instagram user.

PART 1

MASTERLIST

<<<<<

The days had blurred together since the meet-and-greet, but Niall couldn't shake the memory of the girl with the album. Her smile, her warmth, the way she made him feel seen in a way he hadn’t felt in a long time—it was all still fresh in his mind. The thought of her lingered, like a soft melody he couldn’t stop humming. He replayed the moment over and over in his head, but there was one thing that gnawed at him: he hadn’t asked for her name.

It wasn’t like him to let something like that slip by, but he had been so caught up in the whirlwind of emotions she had stirred in him that he hadn’t even thought to ask. He couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment in himself for letting that opportunity pass.

The next few days were a blur of rehearsals, soundchecks, and endless travel. But tonight, as the band was preparing for another show, Niall couldn’t help but feel a bit more restless than usual. His mind kept wandering back to that girl. He tried to focus on the show, but it was as if a piece of him was missing, something he couldn’t quite place.

As they stepped onto the stage, the usual rush of adrenaline flooded through him. The crowd roared, the lights blinding him for a moment as he took his place. But then, amidst the sea of faces, something caught his eye.

There she was.

Niall’s heart skipped a beat. She was standing in the front row, camera in hand, capturing every moment of the show. Her eyes were fixed on him, and for a moment, it felt like the world had narrowed down to just the two of them. She hadn’t seen him yet, but Niall could see her clearly—her eyes wide with excitement, her smile almost glowing in the dim light of the concert.

Something inside him clicked. His energy surged, and he began playing with a newfound enthusiasm. Every note, every chord, felt more alive than it ever had before. It was as if the presence of that one person in the crowd had ignited something in him, something deep and powerful.

He locked eyes with her, and without thinking, he raised his hand and waved.

Her face lit up, and she waved back with the biggest smile Niall had ever seen. It was like everything else faded away, and in that brief moment, it was just him and her, connected in a way he couldn’t quite explain. His heart raced as he played, the adrenaline coursing through him, but it was the sight of her smiling back at him that kept him grounded.

The rest of the show passed in a blur of lights, music, and energy, but Niall’s thoughts kept drifting back to her. The way she had reacted to him, the way she had smiled—it was as if she was the only one in the crowd, and he couldn’t get enough of it.

After the show, Niall couldn’t shake the feeling of wanting to see her again. He knew he had to do something. He couldn’t let this moment slip away like the last one. He walked over to the head of security, a familiar face who had been with the band for years.

“Hey, mate,” Niall said, his voice low, “Do you think you could bring that girl backstage? The one in the front row, with the camera? I really want to meet her again.”

The security guard gave him a knowing smile. “I’ll see what I can do, Niall. Give me a minute.”

Niall paced back and forth, his mind racing. He couldn’t wait to see her again, to hear her voice, to maybe ask her name this time. He had to make up for the last time, had to make sure he didn’t let another chance slip away.

Minutes passed, but it felt like hours. Finally, the security guard returned, but his expression was less than hopeful.

“I’m sorry, Niall,” the guard said. “We found her, but her friend was in a hurry. They said something about traffic, and they had to leave right away. I’m really sorry.”

Niall’s heart sank. He couldn’t believe it. The one person who had made him feel something real, and now she was gone again. He stood there for a moment, feeling the weight of the disappointment settling in his chest.

He made his way back to his dressing room, his mind still racing. He grabbed the album she had given him, flipping through the pages absentmindedly as he tried to shake the feeling of letdown. Each photo he turned was a reminder of her, of how much she had meant to him in that brief moment. But it wasn’t enough. He wanted more. He needed more.

As he flipped to the last page, something caught his eye. It was a small, neatly written Instagram handle, tucked into the corner of one of the photos. His heart skipped a beat. Could it be? Could this be her?

Without wasting a second, Niall grabbed his phone and typed the username into the search bar. The profile that appeared was hers. His heart raced as he scrolled through her feed. There were pictures of the tour, pictures of her, and a few more photos of him—some from the show he had just played. The thought that she had been following him all this time made his chest tighten with excitement.

He didn’t hesitate. He hit the follow button.

A smile spread across his face as he leaned back on the couch in his dressing room, the weight of the day finally lifting off his shoulders. He had found her. He had a way to reach her now. His fingers hovered over his phone for a moment, unsure of what to say, but then he decided to wait. He wanted to take his time with this. He wanted to make sure the next time they met, it would be more than just a fleeting moment.

For now, he closed his eyes and let out a contented sigh. He had her Instagram. He had a way to talk to her. And for the first time in a long while, Niall felt like things were finally falling into place.

<<<<<

Niall lay on the couch, scrolling through her Instagram feed, his heart fluttering with every photo. Her smile, her passion for photography, the way she captured moments so effortlessly—it all reminded him of why she had stood out to him in the first place. His notification pinged, and his heart nearly stopped.

She had followed him back.

A grin spread across his face, and he sat up, his mind racing. Should he message her right away? Would it seem too eager? But he couldn’t wait. He needed to talk to her. His fingers hovered over the keyboard before he finally sent the first message.

Niall: “Hey! It’s Niall… from One Direction. I hope you don’t mind me reaching out. I saw your photos—they’re amazing.”

He hit send, his heart pounding in his chest. Moments later, the typing bubble appeared.

Y/N: “Oh my gosh, hi! Of course, I don’t mind. Thank you so much! I’m still in shock that you followed me.”

Niall chuckled, already feeling more at ease.

Niall: “Well, I had to. Your album really meant a lot to me, and seeing you at the show made my night. I was wondering… would you like to come to our next show?”

The response didn’t come right away. Niall stared at the screen, his heart sinking slightly as the minutes ticked by. Maybe he had been too forward. Maybe she didn’t want to come. But then her reply popped up.

Y/N: “I’d love to, but I don’t think I can afford it right now. I’m a working student, and I used all my savings to go to the last show.”

Niall frowned, his heart aching at her words. She had spent everything just to see them, to see him, and now she couldn’t come again. But then an idea struck him, and a mischievous smile crept onto his face.

Niall: “Good thing VIP boxes exist then.���

The typing bubble appeared again, but this time it lingered. Niall could almost feel her hesitation through the screen.

Y/N: “Niall, I don’t know… That’s too much. I don’t think I can accept that.”

Niall: “Please, I insist. You’ve already done so much for me—more than you know. Let me do this for you. It’d mean the world to me if you came.”

There was another pause, and Niall held his breath.

Y/N: “Okay… If you’re sure.”

Niall’s grin widened, and he let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.

Niall: “I’m more than sure. I’ll have everything sorted for you. Just tell me where you’ll be, and I’ll make sure you’re there.”

Y/N: “Thank you so much, Niall. You have no idea how much this means to me.”

Niall: “Trust me, I do. I can’t wait to see you again.”

As he set his phone down, Niall felt a wave of excitement wash over him. For the first time in a long while, he felt genuinely happy. The thought of seeing her again, of finally having the chance to talk to her properly, made his heart race.

He couldn’t wait for the next show. This time, he wouldn’t let her slip away.

<<<<<

The stadium was alive with excitement, fans pouring in from every direction, their voices blending into a hum of anticipation. Y/N clutched her phone tightly, her heart pounding as she approached the entrance. She glanced at the message Niall had sent her earlier, the code he’d given her burning a hole in her mind.

“Hi,” she said to the security guard at the gate, her voice trembling slightly. “I have a code for the VIP box.”

The guard scanned the code on her phone, nodded, and spoke into his radio. “We’ve got a VIP guest for the box. Can someone escort her up?”

Moments later, a staff member arrived with a kind smile. “Right this way,” they said, gesturing for her to follow.

Y/N’s nerves buzzed as they led her through winding hallways and up a private staircase. She tried to take deep breaths, but her excitement was too overwhelming. When they finally reached the VIP box, she stepped inside and froze.

The space was cozy and private, with a perfect view of the stage below. On a small table near the window was a box. Her curiosity piqued, Y/N walked over and opened it.

Inside was a soft, navy cardigan, its fabric thick and warm. On top of it was a handwritten note.

“Hope you enjoy the show. Here’s something so you wouldn’t get cold. I’ll have someone escort you backstage after the show, so please don’t leave yet AND don’t worry about traffic this time. ;)

Xx Niall”

Y/N’s heart swelled as she read the note, a warm blush spreading across her cheeks. She ran her fingers over the cardigan, marveling at how thoughtful the gesture was. With a small smile, she slipped it on, the fabric wrapping her in a comforting warmth. It smelled faintly of something clean and familiar, and she couldn’t help but feel a little closer to him.

As the lights in the stadium dimmed, the crowd erupted into cheers, and Y/N’s attention snapped to the stage. The opening chords of the first song rang out, and the boys appeared, their energy palpable.

From the moment Niall stepped onto the stage, Y/N noticed something different about him. His smile was brighter, his movements more animated, and his playing more passionate. She couldn’t help but feel a flutter in her chest as he glanced up at the VIP box, his eyes locking with hers for the briefest moment.

He didn’t wave or call attention to her, but the subtle acknowledgment was enough to send her heart racing. Throughout the show, Niall kept sneaking glances her way, his gaze lingering just a second longer than necessary. He would smile to himself before turning back to the crowd, his energy seemingly renewed every time he looked at her.

The fans noticed too. Whispers spread through the crowd about how Niall seemed more energized than usual, his enthusiasm radiating off the stage. He danced more, played harder, and even threw in a few cheeky smirks that had the audience screaming.

Y/N couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride as she watched him. She had always admired him, but seeing him like this, so alive and in his element, made her admiration grow tenfold.

As the show went on, she found herself completely lost in the music, singing along to every song and laughing at the boys’ antics. But her eyes always found their way back to Niall, and every time they did, he seemed to shine a little brighter.

By the time the final song ended and the boys took their bows, Y/N’s cheeks hurt from smiling. She clapped and cheered along with the rest of the crowd, her heart full of gratitude and excitement.

As the stadium began to empty, a staff member appeared at the door of the VIP box.

“Miss Y/N?” they asked, and she nodded.

“Niall asked me to escort you backstage,” they said with a warm smile.

Y/N’s stomach flipped. She grabbed her bag, her hands trembling slightly, and followed them out of the box. Her mind raced with anticipation as they led her through the backstage corridors, the muffled sounds of fans outside fading into the distance.

When they stopped in front of a door marked “Dressing Room,” Y/N’s breath caught in her throat. The staff member knocked once before opening it, stepping aside to let her in.

Inside, Niall was sitting on the couch, a towel draped around his neck, his hair damp from the show. When he looked up and saw her, his face broke into the widest grin she’d ever seen.

“You made it,” he said, standing up and walking over to her.

Y/N nodded, her cheeks flushing. “I did. The show was incredible, Niall. You were incredible.”

He laughed, scratching the back of his neck. “Thanks, love. I might’ve been a bit more enthusiastic tonight.”

She raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile on her lips. “A bit? The fans were definitely noticing.”

Niall shrugged, his cheeks tinting pink. “Maybe I had a little extra motivation.”

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat at his words, and she couldn’t help but smile.

“Did the cardigan fit?” he asked, gesturing to the one she was still wearing.

“It’s perfect,” she said, running her fingers over the sleeve. “Thank you, Niall. For everything. This has been… unbelievable.”

He looked at her for a moment, his expression softening. “You deserve it, Y/N. You’ve already done so much for me without even realizing it. This is the least I could do.”

Her cheeks flushed again, and she looked down, unable to hold his gaze.

“Hey,” Niall said gently, stepping closer. “Don’t go shy on me now. We’ve got a lot to talk about.”

Y/N looked up at him, her heart racing. “Like what?”

Niall grinned, his eyes sparkling. “Like how I’m not letting you get away this time.”

<<<<<

Niall leaned against the couch, his gaze fixed on Y/N, the smile on his face never fading. The show had been incredible, but this—being here with her—felt even better. He wanted to stretch this moment as long as he could.

“Are you hungry?” he asked suddenly, breaking the silence. “Where’d you wanna go?”

Y/N blinked, her mind scrambling for an answer. She still couldn’t quite believe this was happening, that she was standing here with Niall Horan. And now he was asking her where she wanted to eat? She couldn’t think straight.

“I’m… craving a slushie,” she blurted out before she could stop herself.

As soon as the words left her mouth, she mentally cursed herself. A slushie? Really? Of all the things she could have said, why that? She bit her lip, expecting him to laugh or look at her like she was insane.

But Niall just chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “A slushie it is, then. Let’s go.”

Before she could process what was happening, he grabbed her hand, his grip warm and steady, and started leading her toward the exit. Her heart raced as they walked, the reality of the situation sinking in. She was holding hands with Niall Horan.

As they approached the exit, the flash of cameras stopped them in their tracks. Paparazzi were waiting just outside, their lenses already pointed in their direction. Niall halted abruptly, his expression shifting.

“Wait here a sec,” he said softly to Y/N, releasing her hand.

She nodded, watching as he walked toward the paparazzi, his posture calm but firm.

“Mate,” Niall said, addressing one of the photographers. “Can you not do this tonight? You can take pictures all you want some other day, but please respect my privacy this time.”

The paparazzi exchanged glances, clearly taken aback by his politeness. After a moment of hesitation, one of them nodded reluctantly. “Alright, Niall. We’ll back off.”

“Thanks,” Niall said, giving them a small, appreciative smile before turning back to Y/N.

“Sorry about that,” he said, his tone apologetic as he reached her.

But Y/N just smiled, her nerves settling a bit. “Let’s go?” she said, her voice light.

Niall grinned and nodded, taking her hand again as they stepped out into the cool night air. The city buzzed around them as they walked toward the nearest 7/11, the streets quiet but alive with a faint hum of energy.

As they strolled, Y/N couldn’t help but glance at him. She still didn’t understand why he had gone out of his way to invite her to the show, let alone spend time with her now. The question burned in her mind until she finally worked up the courage to ask.

“Niall,” she began, her voice soft, “why did you invite me tonight?”

He looked at her, his expression thoughtful. For a moment, he seemed to be searching for the right words.

“Well,” he started, “at that meet-and-greet, it felt like everyone was lining up for the other lads. And don’t get me wrong—I love seeing them happy, but it’s hard not to feel like the underdog sometimes, you know?”

Y/N nodded, her chest tightening at the vulnerability in his voice.

“But then you showed up,” he continued, his eyes meeting hers. “You were the only one who came to see me that day. You had that album full of my pictures, and you told me I was your favorite. It meant more to me than I can explain. You made me feel… seen. And I’ve been wanting to thank you for that ever since.”

Y/N felt her cheeks flush as his words sank in. She hadn’t realized how much her small actions had impacted him.

“I don’t understand why some fans treat you like that,” she said softly. “There’s so much more in you than you think, Niall.”

He stopped walking for a moment, her words hanging in the air between them. His cheeks turned a faint shade of pink, and he looked down, a shy smile tugging at his lips.

“Thank you,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “That means a lot.”

They resumed walking, the conversation flowing easily now. By the time they reached 7/11, Y/N felt like she had known Niall forever.

<<<<<

The fluorescent lights of the 7/11 cast a soft glow as Niall and Y/N entered the store. Y/N grabbed a cup and walked to the slushie machine, eyeing the different flavors. She settled on a mix of blue raspberry and cherry, filling her cup to the brim.

Niall followed her lead, picking up a cup and attempting to copy her mix. “What’s the ratio here? Fifty-fifty?” he asked, squinting at the machine.

Y/N laughed. “Just trust your instincts, Horan. It’s not rocket science.”

He grinned, giving it his best shot, though his mix ended up a little uneven. “I’ll have to taste-test yours to make sure mine’s up to standard,” he teased as they made their way to the counter.

When Y/N reached for her wallet, Niall was already pulling out his card.

“I’ve got this,” he said, stepping forward.

“No way,” Y/N protested, quickly moving to block him. “I’m paying for my own slushie.”

Niall raised an eyebrow. “You’re really going to fight me over a slushie?”

“Absolutely,” she said, trying to swat his hand away from the card reader.

They went back and forth, their hands playfully batting at each other’s as the cashier watched, amused. Finally, Niall managed to swipe his card, smirking triumphantly.

“Victory,” he declared, handing Y/N her slushie.

Y/N pouted, taking it reluctantly. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“It’s the least I could do,” Niall said, his voice softening. “Now come on, let’s find a spot to sit.”

They stepped outside, the cool night air refreshing against their skin. They sat on the curb just outside the store, sipping their slushies and falling into easy conversation.

They talked about everything—her job as a working student, his favorite moments from tour, their shared love of music, and even the ridiculous things they’d done as kids. Time seemed to blur as they laughed and swapped stories, their connection growing with every word.

Eventually, the night began to wind down, and they decided to head back to the stadium. The streets were quieter now, the city settling into its late-night rhythm. As they approached the stadium, Niall turned toward the parking lot, expecting Y/N to follow. But when he glanced back, she was walking in the opposite direction.

“Where are you going?” he called out, confused. “The parking’s this way.”

She turned and gave him a sheepish smile. “Oh, I take the tube back home.”

Niall’s eyebrows shot up. “No way. Look at the time. It’s dangerous to be going home alone in the dark.”

Y/N hesitated, biting her lip. “It’s really not that far—”

“Not happening,” Niall said firmly, walking back to her. “Come on, I’ll drive you.”

Reluctantly, Y/N agreed, and they made their way to his car. Ever the gentleman, Niall opened the door for her, waiting until she was seated before closing it and walking around to the driver’s side.

As they drove through the quiet streets, a soft melody played on the radio. They didn’t feel the need to fill the silence, both of them content to simply enjoy each other’s presence. Y/N gazed out the window, her fingers wrapped around the now-empty slushie cup, while Niall stole the occasional glance at her, a small smile tugging at his lips.

When they finally reached her house, Niall parked the car and got out, walking her to the door. The porch light cast a warm glow over them as Y/N turned to him, her expression filled with gratitude.

“Thank you for tonight,” she said, her voice sincere. “I had a wonderful time.”

Niall smiled, his eyes soft. “I should be the one thanking you. You’ve made this night unforgettable.”

As they stood there, a quiet moment passed between them. Then, to Y/N’s surprise, Niall leaned in, his hand gently brushing her arm as he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.

The warmth of his lips lingered, and Y/N’s eyes fluttered shut, her heart racing as butterflies erupted in her stomach. The kiss lasted a few seconds, but it felt like a lifetime.

When Niall pulled back, he saw the dreamy expression on her face and couldn’t help but smile. “Goodnight, Y/N,” he said softly.

“Goodnight,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

With one last look, Niall turned and walked back to his car, his steps light and his heart full. As he drove home, the events of the night replayed in his mind. He couldn’t stop smiling, his cheeks almost hurting from how wide it was.

For the first time in a long while, he felt like he’d found something—or someone—special. And he couldn’t wait to see where it would go.

PART 3

[undertheniall]

#TeamNiall