#he needs to like. NEVER leave niall's band

[ifellforittwice]

Niall letting Jake Curran say thank you to the Wembley Arena crowd ♡

[gilbertscurls]

Everywhere ➵ Chris Sturniolo

The late afternoon sun bathed the street in a warm golden hue as you strolled toward the park, your thoughts drifting aimlessly. It had been one of those quiet days, the kind where time seemed to stretch out endlessly, leaving you too much space to think. You smiled to yourself, recalling the latest video Chris and his brothers had uploaded to their wildly popular YouTube channel.

Even though you’d known the trio for years—Chris, Nick, and Matt had been your friends since high school—it still amazed you to see how far they’d come. Their videos were blowing up, and the world was finally seeing what you’d known all along: the Sturniolo brothers were something special. But it wasn’t their success that had your head in the clouds today.

It was Chris.

He had always been the life of the group, the one who could make you laugh until your sides hurt. But somewhere along the way, the feeling you got when you were around him changed. It had become more intense, harder to ignore, and now… He was everywhere.

Every time you opened her phone, he was there—his smile, his laugh, his playful antics with Nick and Matt. Even when you weren’t scrolling through social media, something reminded you of him. A song on the radio, a phrase someone said in passing—everything seemed to lead back to Chris.

You reached the park and found your usual spot beneath a sprawling oak tree. Chris had texted you earlier, asking if you wanted to hang out, just the two of you. It wasn’t unusual, but today, there was a nervous energy buzzing under your skin. You didn’t know why.

Maybe it was because of that stupid dream you’d had the other night, where he’d leaned in close, his hand brushing your cheek as he whispered your name. You had woken up in a daze, the feeling of his touch lingering even after you opened her eyes. Ever since then, you couldn’t shake the thought of what it would be like if Chris saw you the same way you saw him.

Before you could dive too deeply into your thoughts, you heard his voice.

“Hey!”

You turned and saw Chris jogging toward you, his face lit up in that familiar grin that always made your heart skip a beat. He wore a faded band tee and baggy jeans, his hair tousled from the wind, and as always, he looked effortlessly good. You waved as he approached, your pulse quickening.

"Hey," you greeted him as he flopped down on the grass beside you, his usual carefree energy radiating off him.

You sat in comfortable silence for a while, just watching the world go by. Chris was always easy to be around—you never had to force conversation or feel like she needed to entertain you. He was like a constant presence, always there, even when words weren’t.

“You’ve been quiet today,” Chris said after a while, glancing over at you.

You shrugged, trying to play it off. “Just thinking.”

“About what?” He leaned back on his hands, his eyes studying you in that way that made it impossible for you to lie.

You bit her lip. “Just… Stuff.”

Chris raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at his lips. “Stuff, huh? You’re gonna have to be more specific than that.”

You laughed, pushing his shoulder lightly. “Fine. Thinking about you. Happy?”

His grin faltered for a split second, but it was so quick you almost missed it. He sat up straighter, his voice softer now. “Thinking about me? Why?”

You felt her cheeks heat up. “I don’t know. You’ve just been… Everywhere lately. On my phone, on my mind.” You forced a laugh, trying to downplay it. “It’s like I can’t escape you.”

Chris didn’t laugh like you thought he would. Instead, he stared at you, his eyes narrowing slightly as if he were trying to figure something out. The silence stretched between you, and for the first time, it felt a little heavy, like there was something unsaid hanging in the air.

“Is that a bad thing?” he asked, his tone more serious than usual.

You blinked, caught off guard by his question. “No, it’s not bad. It’s just… I don’t know. I guess I’ve just been thinking about us.”

His expression softened, and he leaned in a little closer, his voice low. “What about us?”

You hesitated, suddenly feeling vulnerable. This wasn’t how you had imagined this conversation going. You hadn’t planned on telling him, hadn’t even planned on confronting these feelings, but now that the moment was here, it felt impossible to hold back.

“I don’t know how to explain it,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper. “But lately, I just… I can’t stop thinking about you.”

Chris was silent for a moment, and for the first time, you noticed the shift in his expression. There was no teasing grin, no playful glint in his eyes. Instead, he looked at you with an intensity that made your stomach flip.

“Y/N,” he started, his voice soft but steady, “I’ve been thinking about you too. For a long time.”

Your heart stopped. “What do you mean?”

He ran a hand through his hair, a nervous gesture you recognized. “I mean… It’s not just you who’s been seeing me everywhere. I can’t stop thinking about you either. Every time we hang out, every time I see you, it’s like you’re all I can focus on. It’s driving me crazy.”

Your breath caught in your throat. You hadn’t expected this. You hadn’t expected him to feel the same way.

“I thought I was imagining things,” you admitted, your voice shaky. “I didn’t think you felt that way.”

Chris let out a short laugh, shaking his head. “Are you kidding me? I’ve been trying to hide it for months.”

The vulnerability in his voice was something you weren’t used to hearing from him. Chris was always so carefree, so lighthearted, but now there was a weight to his words that made your heart ache.

“So, what do we do?” you asked quietly, your eyes searching his.

He reached out, his hand finding yours, and for a moment, everything around you seemed to fade away—the noise of the city, the buzz of the world. It was just you, sitting under the oak tree, with years of friendship and something more finally coming to the surface.

“Maybe we stop pretending we don’t feel what we feel,” he said, his voice soft but sure. “And see what happens.”

You looked down at your hands, your thumb brushing against his. “What if it changes everything?”

Chris smiled, and this time, it wasn’t teasing. It was warm, genuine. “Maybe it will. But maybe that’s okay.”

You looked up at him, your heart pounding in your chest. The weight of the moment hung between them, heavy with possibility and uncertainty. But as Chris leaned in, his lips brushing yours in a soft, tentative kiss, all the fears, all the questions melted away.

In that moment, it didn’t matter what might change, what risks you were taking. All that mattered was the way he felt—everywhere.

tag list: @stuwniolo, @sturnobsessedwh0re, @matts-myloverboy, @imjusthereforthesturniolosmut, @lizzymacdonald06

[burningred1989]

UNDERDOG PT. 3

A/N: Last part of the “Underdog”

Y’all know I’m a sucker for making Simon Cowell the villain ;)

Underdog | PART 2

MASTERLIST

<<<<<

Niall had never been happier. Since he and Y/N started dating, his world had become brighter. Their days were filled with simple joys—museum dates where they laughed over silly exhibits, theme park adventures that left them breathless from screaming on roller coasters, cozy movie nights where they’d argue over which snacks to share, and board game battles that usually ended in Niall accusing Y/N of cheating, both of them in fits of laughter. For the first time, Niall felt truly seen and loved for who he was, not just as a member of One Direction.

Fans noticed the change in him almost immediately. His energy on stage was infectious, his interviews were filled with laughter, and his social media posts carried a warmth that hadn’t been there before. Directioners began speculating about the person behind his happiness.

But not everyone saw this as a good thing. One Direction’s management, always focused on maintaining the band’s image, viewed Y/N as a distraction. They summoned both Niall and Y/N to a meeting, the tension in the air palpable as they entered the sleek, sterile office.

Simon Cowell sat at the head of the table, flanked by other executives. The other boys—Harry, Liam, Louis, and Zayn—were seated along the side, their expressions uneasy.

“Niall,” Simon began, his tone sharp, “we’ve noticed a change in you lately. While it’s great that you’re happy, this… relationship is becoming a distraction. We need you focused on the band.”

Niall frowned, his jaw tightening. “A distraction? She’s not a distraction. She’s the reason I’ve been performing better, feeling better.”

Simon leaned forward, his gaze cold. “This isn’t about feelings. This is about what’s best for the band. You need to end it. Immediately.”

Niall’s face reddened, his hands balling into fists at his sides. “Are you serious? You’re asking me to break up with someone who makes me feel loved and appreciated? Do you have any idea what that means to me? Especially after everything you’ve done to make me feel like I’m not enough?”

The room fell silent.

Niall’s voice cracked as tears began streaming down his face. “You’ve turned my mic down during performances so the others could be heard more. You’ve made me feel like the underdog in my own band. And now, when I finally have someone who sees me for me, you want to take that away too?”

The other boys exchanged guilty glances, their faces pale. Harry looked down at his hands, Zayn rubbed the back of his neck, Liam bit his lip, and Louis blinked rapidly, fighting back his own emotions. None of them had realized how deeply Niall had been hurt.

Simon, however, remained unmoved. “This isn’t personal, Niall. It’s business. If you don’t end this, we’ll have no choice but to remove you from the band.”

Niall’s breath hitched, the weight of the ultimatum crushing him. “You’d really kick me out? After everything we’ve built together?”

Y/N, who had been sitting quietly in the corner, tears streaming down her face as she watched the love of her life break apart, couldn’t stay silent any longer. She stood, her voice trembling but firm.

“I’ll leave,” she said, her words cutting through the tension like a blade.

Niall’s head snapped toward her, his eyes wide. “Y/N, no—”

She shook her head, her tears falling faster. “I’ll do whatever you want,” she said to Simon, her voice breaking. “Just don’t ruin his career. Please.”

Simon’s lips curled into a small, satisfied smile. “That’s a wise decision.” He gestured to a security guard at the door. “Escort her out.”

Niall jumped to his feet, his chair screeching against the floor. “You can’t do this!” he shouted, his voice raw. He reached for Y/N, but she stepped back, her eyes filled with sorrow.

“This is for you, Niall,” she whispered. “I can’t be the reason you lose everything.”

As the guard gently took her arm, Niall’s knees buckled, and he sank back into his chair, his sobs shaking his entire body. The boys watched helplessly, their own eyes glistening with tears as Y/N was led out of the room.

The door closed with a heavy thud, and the silence that followed was deafening. Niall sat motionless, his head in his hands, his heart shattered. The light that Y/N had brought into his life was gone, snuffed out by the very people who were supposed to support him.

In the days and weeks that followed, fans noticed the change. The spark in Niall’s eyes was gone, replaced by a dull emptiness. His once-energetic performances became mechanical, his laughter in interviews forced. Directioners flooded social media with messages of concern, begging to know what had happened to the happy, glowing Niall they had fallen in love with.

But Niall couldn’t bring himself to answer. Every time he thought of Y/N—her laugh, her smile, the way she made him feel like he mattered—it was like a knife to the chest. And as he sat alone in his dressing room, flipping through the album she had given him, he couldn’t help but wonder if he’d ever feel whole again.

<<<<<

Years later…

Years had passed since the breakup, but the memory of Y/N still lingered in the corners of Niall’s mind. Time had dulled the pain, but it hadn’t erased the “what ifs” that occasionally crept in during quiet moments. He had thrown himself into his solo career, pouring his heart into his music. Fans adored him, his songs topping charts and selling out arenas, but there was always a part of him that felt unfinished, like a chapter left unwritten.

Now, he was on stage, guitar in hand, performing one of his most personal songs, This Town. The soft, aching melody filled the arena, his voice carrying the raw emotion of the lyrics. As he scanned the sea of fans illuminated by the glow of their phones, his eyes caught something—or rather, someone.

It was a figure near the middle of the crowd, partially hidden beneath a black cap and a leather jacket. She wasn’t screaming or holding up a sign like the others. She seemed to be deliberately blending in, her head slightly bowed, her presence almost ghostlike.

But Niall knew.

His heart stuttered, his fingers momentarily slipping on the guitar strings. He quickly recovered, but the world around him seemed to blur as he focused on her. Y/N. Even after all these years, he could feel her presence like a gravitational pull, unmistakable amidst thousands of people.

She didn’t look up, didn’t cheer, didn’t do anything to draw attention to herself. It was as if she didn’t want him to notice her. But how could he not?

He finished the song, the audience erupting into cheers, but Niall’s mind was elsewhere. He stole glances in her direction throughout the rest of the set, hoping she wouldn’t leave before he had a chance to see her. His heart raced with every passing moment, a mix of excitement and fear building in his chest.

When the final song ended, the lights dimmed, and the crowd began to disperse, Niall’s eyes darted back to where she had been. She was moving toward the exit, her head down, weaving through the throngs of fans.

“No, not again,” Niall muttered under his breath.

Ignoring the crew and security trying to guide him backstage, he jumped down from the stage, his heart pounding in his chest. Fans screamed as they saw him moving through the crowd, but he didn’t stop to acknowledge them. He couldn’t lose her again.

“Y/N!” he called out, but his voice was swallowed by the noise of the crowd.

She kept walking, her pace quickening as if she sensed him coming.

Niall pushed through the sea of fans, murmuring hurried apologies as he brushed past them. His pulse roared in his ears, his legs moving on autopilot. He couldn’t let her slip away again.

Finally, he reached her just as she was about to exit the arena. He reached out, his hand gently grabbing her elbow.

“Wait,” he breathed, his voice trembling as he turned her around to face him.

Time seemed to stop as their eyes met. Y/N’s face was a mixture of shock and uncertainty, her lips parting slightly as if to say something but no words came.

And in that moment, Niall forgot about the crowd, the cameras, the noise. All he could see was her, the person he thought he’d lost forever, standing right in front of him.

Niall’s breath hitched as he stared at her, his hand still gently gripping her elbow. For a moment, he couldn’t believe she was real, standing in front of him after all these years. His voice came out in a whisper, laden with disbelief and emotion.

“You’re here,” he said, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he tried to process the moment.

Y/N looked away, her lips trembling. “You’re not supposed to see me,” she murmured, her voice barely audible over the muffled noise of the crowd beyond the arena doors.

Niall shook his head, his grip on her arm tightening slightly, as though afraid she might vanish if he let go. “We need to get out of here,” he said, his voice firmer now. “People are starting to notice.”

Without waiting for her response, he led her through the crowd, weaving past lingering fans and crew members. His heart pounded with a mix of urgency and exhilaration. Once they reached the backstage area, he guided her toward his dressing room, his security team ensuring they weren’t followed.

The door clicked shut behind them, and for the first time, they were alone. The room was dimly lit, the faint hum of the crowd still audible through the walls. Niall gestured for her to sit on the couch, his hands trembling slightly. She hesitated but eventually sank into the seat, her hands clasped tightly in her lap.

“What are you doing here?” Niall asked, his voice soft but insistent. His eyes searched hers, a storm of emotions swirling within them—confusion, hope, and a lingering sadness.

Y/N hesitated, her gaze fixed on her hands. “I’ve always been here,” she said quietly, her voice thick with emotion. “Even after everything went down, I still went to your shows. And the boys’ shows too. I just… I made sure your management wouldn’t see me. I didn’t want to cause trouble or risk being dragged out of the venue.”

Niall’s throat tightened as her words sank in. She had been there all along, silently supporting him from the shadows, even when he thought she was gone.

Y/N’s voice wavered as she continued, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “I know you probably don’t want to see me, but—”

Before she could finish, Niall closed the distance between them in an instant, pulling her into a tight embrace. His arms wrapped around her with a desperation that mirrored the ache in his heart. Tears streamed down his face, soaking into her jacket as he held her as if afraid she might disappear again.

Y/N froze for a moment, shocked by the suddenness of his hug, but then her own tears began to fall. Her arms found their way around his back, clutching him just as tightly.

“It’s just nice to see you,” she whispered through her sobs, her voice trembling. “To see how much you’ve grown into who you are now. You’ve done so well, Niall.”

Niall pulled back slightly, just enough to look at her face, though his arms never left her. His tears continued to fall, his voice breaking as he spoke. “Don’t leave me again. Please. I can’t go through that again.”

Y/N’s heart shattered at the raw pain in his voice. She shook her head, her own tears blurring her vision. “I’m so sorry,” she choked out. “I gave up so easily back then. I thought it was the only way to protect you, but I didn’t realize how much it would hurt us both.”

Niall gently placed a finger over her lips, silencing her. “None of that matters now,” he said, his voice still shaky but filled with conviction. “What matters is that you’re here. Right now. With me.”

She nodded, fresh tears spilling down her cheeks as she leaned her forehead against his. They stayed like that for a moment, their breaths mingling, the years of pain and longing melting away in the warmth of their embrace.

For the first time in what felt like forever, Niall felt whole.

Niall pulled back slightly, his hands still gently resting on Y/N's arms, his tear-streaked face softening into a tentative smile. He brushed a strand of hair from her face, his thumb grazing her cheek with a tenderness that made her heart ache.

"Do you... want to come home with me?" he asked hesitantly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Y/N looked at him, her eyes still glassy from the tears, and nodded. "Yeah, I'd like that," she said softly.

Relief flooded Niall's features, and he took her hand, intertwining their fingers as he led her out of the dressing room. The halls were quiet now, most of the crew busy packing up. Niall ignored the occasional curious glance from staff as they made their way to his car

When they reached the car, Niall opened the passenger door for her, his hand never leaving hers until she was seated. He walked around to the driver's side, sliding in and starting the engine, but before he pulled out of the lot, he reached over and took her hand again.

As he drove through the quiet streets, his hand shifted to rest on her thigh, his touch warm and grounding. Y/N glanced down at his hand, a small smile tugging at her lips. She placed her hand over his, giving it a gentle squeeze.

Niall glanced at her briefly, his own lips curving into a smile. "I missed this," he murmured, his voice soft but full of emotion.

Y/N's heart fluttered at his words, and she squeezed his hand again in silent agreement.

When they arrived at his house, Niall parked the car and quickly got out, coming around to open her door. His hand found hers again as they walked inside, the warmth of his touch steadying the whirlwind of emotions swirling between them.

The house was quiet, dimly lit, and felt like a world away from the chaos of the arena. Niall hesitated for a moment, his hand still clasping hers as they stood in the entryway.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice tinged with nervousness.

Y/N nodded, her eyes meeting his. "Yeah, I'm okay," she assured him, her voice soft but certain.

Niall stepped closer, his free hand coming up to cup her cheek. His thumb brushed over her skin as he gazed at her, his eyes searching hers for any sign of hesitation. When he found none, he leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, tentative kiss.

The kiss was gentle at first, testing the waters, but when Y/N responded, her lips moving against his, Niall deepened it. His hands slid to her waist, pulling her closer as the kiss grew more passionate.

Y/N's arms wrapped around his neck, her fingers tangling in his hair as she leaned into him. Niall's heart pounded in his chest, but for the first time in years, it wasn't from fear or sadness -it was from pure, unfiltered happiness.

He guided her gently toward the bedroom, their lips never parting as they moved. When they reached the bed, Niall hovered over her, his hands braced on either side of her as he looked down at her, his eyes filled with love and longing.

"You're so beautiful," he whispered, his voice barely audible as he leaned down to kiss her again.

Y/N's hands slid up his arms, her touch sending shivers down his spine. Their kisses deepened, each one more urgent and filled with emotion than the last. The years of separation melted away, leaving only the two of them in this moment, rediscovering each other.

The night unfolded in a blur of whispered words and shared touches, a blissful reunion of two souls that had been apart for far too long. As they lay together, tangled in each other's arms, Niall pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, a content smile on his lips.

For the first time in years, he felt whole again. And as Y/N nestled closer to him, her hand resting over his heart, he knew she felt the same.

<<<<<

The soft glow of morning light filtered through the curtains as Niall stirred awake. Blinking the sleep from his eyes, he glanced down and saw Y/N’s head resting gently on his chest, her hair fanned out over his skin. Her arm was draped across his torso, holding him as though even in sleep she didn’t want to let go.

A smile crept onto Niall’s face, his heart swelling with a warmth he hadn’t felt in years. He brushed a strand of hair from her face, careful not to wake her, and then reached for his phone on the nightstand.

As soon as he unlocked it, notifications flooded the screen. His heart sank slightly as he saw headlines and photos plastered everywhere.

He scrolled through the pictures—one of him stopping Y/N at the arena, their hands clasped tightly as he led her to his car. Another showed them walking toward his front door, their fingers intertwined. The most intimate of all was a blurry shot through his window, capturing them mid-kiss, passion and years of longing evident even in the grainy image.

Niall sighed, a mix of emotions washing over him. He was grateful for the support, but the invasion of their privacy so soon after reconnecting stung. He didn’t want anything to ruin this moment, not when he finally had her back.

Hearing a soft sigh, Niall quickly locked his phone and set it aside. He turned his attention back to Y/N as she began to stir, her eyelashes fluttering before her eyes opened slowly. She looked up at him, her gaze still hazy with sleep, and offered a soft, sleepy smile.

“Good morning,” she murmured, her voice raspy but sweet.

“Good morning, love,” Niall replied, leaning down to kiss her.

But before his lips could meet hers, Y/N quickly covered her mouth, her cheeks flushing. “Morning breath,” she mumbled, her eyes wide with embarrassment.

Niall chuckled, his laugh rumbling through his chest. “Oh, come on, I don’t care about that,” he teased, trying to lean in again.

Y/N shook her head stubbornly, sitting up. “No way. Let’s brush our teeth first,” she said, playfully narrowing her eyes at him.

“Alright, alright,” Niall relented, throwing the covers off and getting out of bed. He extended a hand to her, helping her up, and together they padded to the bathroom.

They stood side by side at the sink, brushing their teeth and stealing glances at each other through the mirror. Niall made a face at her, toothpaste foam comically puffing out of his mouth, and Y/N burst into laughter, nearly choking on her own toothbrush.

After rinsing their mouths, Niall turned to her with a mischievous grin. Without warning, he scooped her up into his arms, causing her to squeal in surprise. “Niall!” she laughed, kicking her feet as he carried her back to the bedroom.

He tossed her onto the bed gently, her laughter filling the room. “You’re unbelievable,” she said between giggles, her cheeks flushed from both the sudden movement and the sheer joy of the moment.

Niall climbed onto the bed, his laughter joining hers as he hovered over her. “Unbelievable, huh?” he teased, his blue eyes sparkling.

Before she could respond, he leaned down and captured her lips in a kiss. It started soft and sweet, but as the seconds passed, it deepened, becoming more passionate. Y/N’s hands found their way to his hair, her fingers tangling in the soft strands as she kissed him back with just as much fervor.

When they finally pulled away, both slightly breathless, Niall rested his forehead against hers, his thumb brushing gently over her cheek. “I’m so happy you’re back in my life,” he whispered, his voice filled with emotion.

Y/N’s heart swelled at his words, and she cupped his face, her thumbs brushing away the remnants of dried tears from the night before. “I’m happy too,” she whispered back.

Niall smiled, a genuine, radiant smile that lit up his entire face. For the first time in years, he felt like he had everything he needed. And as he looked into Y/N’s eyes, he knew he’d never let her go again.

<<<<<

A/N: Thank y’all for reading.

[allwaswell16]

A fic rec of One Direction fics in which the characters are close to the age they are now in 2024 as requested in this ask. If you enjoy the fics, please leave kudos and comments for the writers! You can find my other fic recs here. Happy reading!

- Louis/Harry -

💠 The Greatest Thing by @infinitelymint

(E, 168k, canon) Harry and Louis haven’t spoken since the band broke up when a dangerous combination of Niall Horan, tequila, and an ordained Elvis impersonator means that the two of them have to embark on their biggest publicity stunt to date - together.

💠  And What If I Were You by jacaranda_bloom / @jacaranda-bloom

(E, 109k, famous/not famous) For Louis, will losing his sight give him the clarity to realise what is right in front of him? For Harry, will losing the love of his life give him the strength to finally open his heart? And can they find their way back, before they lose each other forever?

💠 Desires for Woolgatherings by isolated

(E, 86k, Maniac au) In the midst of his second world tour, Louis Tomlinson receives the devastating news that his former bandmate, Harry Styles, is in critical condition after an unfortunate accident. 

💠 When the Lights Go Out by thelarenttrap / @antidotetogo

(E, 79k, F1 au) In its near eighty years of existence, Formula 1 has never had an out gay driver. In 2017, Harry Styles signs a contract with Scuderia AlphaTauri alongside his childhood friend and competitor, Louis Tomlinson. The next decade of their careers is some of the most tumultuous press--on and off the track--Formula 1 has ever seen.

💠 another dream but always you by you_explode / @nobodymoves

(M, 60k, superpowers) Harry is a Dreamwalker; he has the ability to visit people in their dreams and help put them on the right path. He's assigned to Louis, who's struggling after the break-up of his band.

💠  you were in my dream by staybeautiful / @harruandlou

(E, 60k, acquaintances to lovers) Louis woke up after having a sexy dream about his best friend’s boyfriend’s best friend resolved to never think about it again. He hardly knew Harry, so what difference would it make? But when they are thrown together only a few days later, Louis had to admit, his subconscious might have been onto something.

💠 I Really Like Your Styles: The Baking Advent-ure by @homosociallyyours

(T, 35k, coffee shop) Louis isn't much for frills, and the coffee shop he co-owns with his best friend Liam is evidence of that. Yes, it's got a decent sized, well-kept industrial kitchen, but Louis insists that people come to coffee shops for coffee, not mediocre pastry and plastic wrapped cookies. 

💠 If I had no love to give (I wouldn't give it to you) by @kingsofeverything

(E, 30k, restaurant au) Small town restaurateur Louis Tomlinson needs someone competent to work in his kitchen. Chef Harry Styles needs a job.

💠 Bitter Ends Turn Sweet by @allwaswell16

(E, 30k, songfic) It had been four years since Harry first heard the song his ex wrote about him and far longer since they broke up. He forgave Louis long ago, and now his life was focused on his career, his family, and especially his son, Max. But Louis was back in Chicago, after all this time, and he’s not an easy man to ignore.

💠 signs and wonders by @scrunchyharry

(E, 29k, cheating) On the surface, it looks like Louis Tomlinson has the perfect life; after all, he has the whole package: a white picket fence house (well, his doesn’t technically have a white picket fence, but work with him), a wife, a daughter and a dog. He has it all and he’s not even 30, yet.

💠 Somebody's Got Your Trainers On (It's You) by bluegreenish / @greenblueish

(E, 28k, hospital au) the one where, after two years, paediatrician Harry returns to Silver Street Hospital and with it to paediatric nurse Louis' life.

💠 what's left of my halo's black by LiveLaughLoveLarry / @loveislarryislove

(E, 22k, fwb) A year after a devastating breakup, Louis is still trying to put himself back together - but getting over a breakup is hard when you work as a wedding planner. Thankfully, his coworker Harry is the most supportive friend Louis could ask for.

💠 Rolling Stone UK Awards AU (series) by INnenaHeart / @thechavier

(M, 15k, canon divergence) Harry started walking away from him and he felt like he was missing the moment, if he let him go like this he would lose on something. Something great. Something beautiful.

💠 Seems You Cannot Be Replaced by QuickedWeen / @becomeawendybird

(M, 5k, time jump) Harry and the popular boy in school, Louis Tomlinson, share a tension-filled night together when they're young. Fifteen years later they see each other again.

💠 Tuca Tuca (ILikeYouILikeYouILikeYou) by @persephoneflouwers

(E, 4k, canon) The San Francisco getaway AU, where Harry is needy and Louis has a flight to LA in a few hours.

💠 Let Me Taste Your Silhouette by LetTheMusicMoveYou / @letthemusicmoveyou28

(E, 4k, pwp) the one where Harry accidentally posts a picture to his main Instagram story instead of only to his close friends, and he just happens to be wearing a 28 Official Programme shirt. Louis happens to notice

💠 Jealousy Looks Good On You, Baby by cigarettesbeforesex

(M, 4k, pwp) A flirtatious stranger wanted to entice Louis by buying him a drink from the bar. The handsome 29-year-old tavern manager with curly hair, who Louis (often) flirts with, is currently working on shift...Poor Curly, because he's the one that has to deliver the drink to him.

💠 spring in your eyes by @nouies

(NR, 3k, fake relationship) “Just Go with It” inspired AU where plastic surgeon Harry pretends to be married to his assistant Louis to avoid unwanted attention.

💠 From the Dining Table by @littleroverlouis

(E, 3k, established relationship) Harry's thirtieth birthday hasn't gone as expected. Things start looking up from the dining table.

- Rare Pairs -

💠 Live a Thousand Lifetimes by Layne Faire / @laynefaire

(E, 57k, Zayn/Liam) With the whirlwind about to begin again, Liam re-evaluates the last ten years - the fame, the money, the people who changed his life forever - and the person who walked away.

💠 Eight Days by LadyAJ_13 / @ladyaj-13

(T, 22k, Liam/Louis)  Louis and Liam got hitched in Vegas, completely forgot about it for more than a decade, and it comes back to bite them. Sort of.

[mego211]

I needed to go Tumblr. As soon as I heard that Liam Payne had died, I was thrown back into the teenager I was. I remember listening to the first album and watching the video diaries. I remember falling in love with these five idiots and waiting for the next song to get me through the day. I remember scrolling through this site for leaks, for drama and for everything in between. I remember heading to OTR concert and excited to finally see the boys that made life a little less shitty. I remember finding out that Zayn leaving the band and remembering when they released an album without him. Then I remember them going on hiatus and wondering how my life would go on. Then they all slowly released music in their own and realized that life was now split into 5. I remember when my mom won tickets to get to hear Liam’s first solo first, and finally meeting one of my idols face to face. I remember growing up and slowly loosing touch with 1D. Then it’s 10 years later, and I start to relisten to all of the albums. I remember being a teen. That came in ebbs and flows for a while. Then I see that Harry and Liam attend a Niall concert, and I start to listen to my favorite 1D songs. Two days ago, only 2, I was listening to FOUR and loving every second. I randomly start singing Strip that Down in the kitchen and life is a little at peace, at least it transports me back to simpler times. Times when I was worried if one of the boys was seeing someone because they would for sure go out with me. And there was hope in my heart that maybe someday, I would see One Direction reunited with all of them. And then I’m driving home humming to Angel. And then my friend messaged me that Liam is dead. But how? Wasn’t he just at a Niall concert and wasn’t I just thinking about how 1D could reunite some day and that would be the best thing ever! But no, Liam Payne is dead. I never really expected to have a celebrity hit me like this. There were a few that shook me to my core but I think I’m still in denial that Liam is dead. Payno is gone. A part of my teenage youth is gone. A big chunk of my life is gone. A part that I thought I could lock away and never get hurt, is truly gone. Worst part is listening to Spaces and Moments and realizing the true heartbreak of this. Warning: Moments will get you. It will 100% get you. Be prepared to cry and wonder how our Payno was feeling in the final moments. Rest east Liam 💕

[areasontoismile]

This is me reliving my tumblr so I can get some feelings off of my chest

I’m 12 years old. A family member is sitting on a computer desk and calls me to watch this performance of five boys singing so nicely. “The blonde one is so cute!” they say. I have no idea who they are but the blonde one is in fact cute.

13. My life kinda sucks right now because everything is changing too fast and I can’t handle it. The only thing that helps me cope with life is coming home from school and watching every single video, interview, performance and learn lyrics to their songs - and I don’t even understand what they’re saying most of the time.

Now I’m 14. It’s a hot day and we’re celebrating Mother’s Day in my country. My mom drives me to the stadium and my heart is so heavy with excitement I can’t contain myself. I stand there from 10 am till midnight, no food, not using the restroom, sun on my head and I’ve never been happier. I see them, I’m so close to them I can see how in between the vocals Harry is thanking everyone for coming to see them - all that off mic. I can see Louis making funny faces for us, I see zayn picking my friend’s flag and lifting it up. I can see Niall smiling and enchanting everyone. I see Liam being the nicest human being ever - always on center, like the north of the band. Harry dedicates the concert for all the mothers for letting us go see them. I leave and hug my mom so hard, it’s the best day of my life and I’m terribly thankful to her for letting me be there.

I’m 16. I’m logging on my Facebook after school and my heart drops: zayn is leaving the band. I could see that coming but why is it so sad? I hope everyone is ok.

I’m 17. They’re taking a break. It’s ok, I guess. They need to rest. Can’t wait to hear their solo songs.

I’m 18. I’m sitting on the bus on my way to college and my face can’t hide the giant smile on my face while listening to all the solo song from the guys. They’re so good they should be in a band.

I’m 21. I become an orphan due to Covid. Life is not worth living. I can’t listen to music anymore because it feels like I’m betraying my parents by doing something good for me. I deserve to suffer. Hey, liam is doing a live on Instagram and Niall is joining him! I can’t believe they’re still close. It makes me happy. Maybe I deserve to numb the pain sometimes. Maybe my parents would like to see me happy.

I’m 25. It’s a sunny day and the day before I had to go to the cemetery wich always makes me emotional. I think today it’s gonna be better. I open Instagram. My heart stops for a second. What do you mean Liam died? What? That must be fake. No way. But what about his baby? What about his family? My heart is so broken it doesn’t make sense - he didn’t even know me. I feel like part of my childhood is gone.

[meyhew]

thinking about zayn (bc i will always have endless sympathy & compassion for him) and how his departure changed the nature of his relationship with all 4 of his closest friends. thinking about zayn and louis specifically. yes it must have been upsetting for louis to find out he was leaving like no do doubt about it but At First, publicly, he seemed to be supportive. yes that changed very quickly. thinking abt how zayn would have relied on the boys to be there for him after leaving the band and facing the unknown because they were the only people in the world who knew what he’d stepped away from. and then they weren’t there for him. in their hurt, they stuck together and left him alone. thinking abt how even when you love your friends dearly, sometimes it isn’t enough. it’s there but it’s not enough to make up for the rest of it. how, at the end of it all, louis couldn’t understand and stand with zayn when zayn most needed him to. bc sometimes that is just how friendship works. how he held on to that grudge for years and only now seems to be starting to realize (without resentment) why zayn made the decisions he made. how only now it seems even slightly possible that he might track down zayn’s number, might extend an olive branch. niall sought out zayn at that award show shortly after the whole mess and shook his hand; the others have said niall doesn’t like tension. of course he shook zayn’s hand. liam didn’t speak ill of zayn at all when it all happened didn’t partake in harry and louis’ jokes and yeah that may have partly been because of the image he’d been putting on for the world but still. harry and louis’ hurt went bone deep bc their own lives were a shitshow at the time and they were just boys, really, who didn’t know how to cope with losing their best friend. harry’s go to person for comfort & louis’ partner in crime. they had people keeping their professional life together, they didn’t have anyone telling them how to be a good friend to the person who’d seemingly walked away from them. it’s so easy to say they overreacted from the outside looking in like we’re watching a story unfold (which was kinda true in a sense) but like. it was a real, genuine friendship. with all that pressure with everyone watching, of course they fucked up. but still they’re the only 5 people who understand what their lives have been like and no one else will understand them the way the other 4 will. ever. smth smth sandbox love never dies you may get separated but you’ll still be dreaming about each other decades down the road

[daisyblog]

The Beginning Of The End

When We Were Young Masterlist Summary: Zayn announces he's leaving One Direction and YN and Louis break up.

YN and Louis had been bickering a lot lately, it started with small things but as the weeks went by it grew into more. Arguing about who was right, who was wrong, who did this, and who did that. It was getting worse as the weeks passed, it was starting to affect the other boys as they would avoid each other during rehearsals, not look at each other during interviews or even when they were on stage. It was becoming an issue. Management warned them that they needed to at least pretend they were getting on, or rethink being together for the sake of the band and their careers. What really broke the two was when Zayn announced he was leaving the band.

YN wished she could say she was shocked and it was the last thing she expected to leave Zayn's mouth as they both sat at the back of the tour bus drawing together, well attempting to draw in YN's case. She noticed how his whole approach and appearance had changed; his happy and mysterious ways turned into being quiet and withdrawn. Whilst the others would leave the stage and be on cloud nine, Zayn would hide away in his bunk or hotel room. YN knew Zayn's anxiety had worsened over the years, he didn't enjoy the spotlight and the lack of privacy that came with it. He just wasn't Zayn anymore and her heart broke for him.

As YN moved the pencil in her hand along the paper, she spoke "Hey..you don't have to talk if you don't want to..but..uh..are you okay?"

She noticed Zayn take a deep breath before the words stumbled passed his lip "I'm leaving the band", YN's hand stilled for a moment trying to digest the words. "You don't seem shocked?"

YN glanced at him with a shrug of her shoulders "I'm not...You haven't been enjoying it for so long...I was expecting it sooner"

"Do you hate me for it?" Zayn asked nervously.

YN was quick to turn and shake her head "I could never hate you Zayn...you're my brother..I just want you to be happy but it doesn't mean I'm not upset that you're leaving" and she pulled the Bradford boy into her arms, as they both shared a few tears together.

Zayn had asked management if he could tell his bandmates that he was leaving by himself without having them there watching their every move. So Zayn had text each member to meet at his hotel room a week before his last performance. It wasn't unusual for them all to meet some evenings in one of their rooms but it wasn't a regular occurrence anymore so the three boys were concerned reading the message, but YN just prayed they would take it well.

YN was last to arrive at the hotel room, Louis mumbling "Nice of you to turn up", which caused Harry to nudge his arm and Niall to look between the couple as he nervously chewed his fingernails.

"Shut up Lou" YN replied with a roll of her eyes before finding her sitting next to Niall on the floor with his back against the wall.

Zayn coughed grabbing everyone's attention "Uh..um..I've got something to tell you all"

"Everything okay mate?" Louis spoke, concerned about one of his best friends.

YN noticed how nervous Zayn was as he gulped "I'm..um..I'm..I'm leaving the band"

Silence took over the room and not a comfortable one. Niall continued to chew on his fingernails but with more urgency. Harry sat with arms leaning on his knees, biting at his bottom lip trying to hold back his tears. Liam and Louis stood looking at each other, then at Zayn and back at each other, almost like they were having a secret conversation. YN sat and observed each of their reactions, waiting for someone to speak.

"I'm sorry guys...I-I just can't keep doing this..It's not..just not for me anymore" Zayn broke the silence.

"Mate..you can't just leave" Louis began "We're a band..we're a family"

"I've got to Louis..It's making me ill..I had three panic attacks last week..I can't do it anymore" Zayn pleaded.

"THIS IS A FOOKIN' JOKE" Louis shouted into the room, making everyone jump.

"Don't start Lou-" YN began to speak before Louis interrupted her.

"NO DON'T TELL ME NOT TO FOOKIN' START...I'M ALLOWED TO BE ANGRY"

"Yeah and Zayn's allowed to feel what he does without anyone telling him he's wrong for it" YN calmly spoke.

Louis shook his head with a sarcastic chuckle "Of course you would defend him..anything to go against me these days" Louis accused.

"Mate-" Liam tried to intervene but Louis had pushed YN too far this time.

"Do you know what Lou not everything is about you...consider me and you done because I'm sick and tired of all of this..you're nothing but an arrogant son of a bitch" the fact that YN said that with a calm tone, scared the other boys to death. That's how they knew that she was serious. Harry and Niall's eyes met across the room, looking for some sort of comfort from each other.

YN got up from her position next to Niall and walked towards the door but not before saying "I'm sorry you had to hear that boys, it wasn't fair" before she continued to walk towards the door, not waiting for a reply.

"YN..Baby...wait" Louis panicked voice followed her, but before he could reach her YN abruptly turned around.

"Don't call me baby again..it's over"

One Direction After five incredible years, Zayn Malik has decided to leave One Direction. Niall, Harry, Liam, Louis and YN will continue as a five-piece and look forward to the forthcoming concerts of their world tour and recording their fifth album, due to be released later this year.

Zayn says: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight. I know I have five friends for life in YN, Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world."

One Direction says: "We're really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future. The past five years have been beyond amazing, we've gone through so much together, so we will always be friends. The five of us will now continue. We're looking forward to recording the new album and seeing all the fans on the next stage of the world tour."

Simon Cowell says: "I would like to say thank you to Zayn for everything he has done for One Direction. Since I first met Zayn in 2010, I have grown very, very fond - and immensely proud - of him. I have seen him grow in confidence and I am truly sorry to see him leave. As for One Direction, fans can rest assured that Niall, Liam, Harry, Louis and YN are hugely excited about the future of the band."

Tag List: (let me know if you would like to be added) @peterholland04 @werewolfbansheelove

[satelliteharryss]

Audition

Drummer Masterlist Summary: YN auditions to be One Direction's Drummer.

Genre: harry styles x tomlinsonsister!reader

Since a young age YN had always been one to make a rhythm from tapping on something. Like when she was a toddler, an aunt gifted her a musical instruments set and the only thing she wanted to play was the drum and sticks. She would spend hours sitting and tapping the sticks on top of the plastic toy. When she was sat at the kitchen table with her brother and sisters waiting for their dinner when they young children, she would annoy them by hitting her fingers against the wood of the table. 

For her 11th birthday she had been gifted a drum kit that lived in the garage next to the house, where she was able to make as much noise as she liked. Her Mum always knew she was talented but listening from her seat in the garden as she watched the younger girls play, she was stunned at how a young girl could play so well and sound like a professional.

So when her brother’s band, One Direction, needed a drummer because theirs had dropped out last minute before their Take Me Home Tour, Louis didn’t think twice to ask their management to consider his sister for the role. After some thought, they agreed that she could come for an audition. 

On the day of the audition, YN had travelled down from Doncaster to London, where her brother met her at the train station to take her to the studio where his management and the other boys were waiting.

As Louis pulled into the car park, he noticed his sister bouncing her leg up and down, a nervous tick she had. Reaching over he placed his hand over her knee. “Hey, calm down, you’ll be fine”.

Her leg remained still now, but she still couldn’t shake off her nerves. “I’m just nervous Lou, I don’t want to embarrass you-“.

“Embarrass me, you could never embarrass me, plus I’ve been bragging you up because you’re a badass on the drums”. Louis complimented, causing YN to laugh at his words. She was even more determined not to leave her brother down. 

Entering the studio where the audition was being held, Louis noticed his sister hands trembling slightly. He continued to lead the way until they were outside the audition room. 

“Ready?”. Louis asked YN once more, when YN nodded he led her through the black doors.

The four other boys were sat on a long grey sofa in the corner of the room, with a few of members from the boys management sat behind a table with papers and a laptop on front of them. 

Once YN had introduced herself and Louis and the boys wished her luck, she found herself sat with her trusty sticks in her hand behind the drum kit. 

For the audition, they were asked to play one of the bands songs. So with a little hint from Louis, YN chose Up All Night knowing that it was going to be their opening song for the shows.

Not wasting time YN repositioned her sticks in her hand, and within seconds they were hitting the drum kit in front of her. 

Niall was amazed at how someone so calm and quiet could make so much noise on the drums, and make it sound so good without any other instruments.

Zayn’s foot tapped to the beat of the drums, and whispered to Niall “how sick is she”.

Liam was moving his arms to each beat that YN would make, and pretended that he was actually playing the drums.

Harry, well he was mesmerised. Not only from the way YN played the drums but how beautiful she was too. He’d heard from Louis how amazing she was but to see her play right in front of him, he was speechless. 

Louis wanted YN to land this role more than anything, so although he knew how good she was, she needed to prove it to the people sat behind the table. He kept trying ti read their expressions as his sister played but it was hard to tell what they were really thinking. 

As YN finished playing the song, she took a deep breath, one that she had been holding since her sticks hit the first beat. “Thank you.” she spoke to the three people in front of her.

The man in the middle of the table broke the silence. “YN, that was something else…for once I am speechless.”.

“You are a very talented young lady.”. The woman at the end of table complimented her.

The three of them all had a silent conversation with their eyes, and a few head nods here and there. Before one spoke “YN, you’ve got the job!”.

YN was stunned, she couldn’t move from her spot. But before she knew it, five arms were around her in one big group hug, as they jumped up and down in excitement, congratulating her. 

“Welcome to the band sis!”. 

Tag List: @theekyliepage

[niallerspayno]

Between the Lines - Chapter One

Masterlist

Series Masterlist

Author's note: The start of a new series! Let me know what you think!

...

You’ve known Niall Horan for as long as you can remember. Back when your biggest worry was who’d get the last piece of cake at his mum’s house, before the world knew his name, before the lights of a stage ever blinded him. You were the two kids who spent hours dreaming up crazy ideas for the future, never thinking the world would change around you. Niall leaving for The X Factor at just sixteen was supposed to be a brief detour—a gap year of sorts—until he was back, and everything would return to normal. But things didn’t go as planned.

He made it into One Direction, and the dream they’d all built together quickly turned into a worldwide phenomenon. Niall’s life went from normal to completely chaotic overnight, and suddenly, you were the one trying to catch up with his whirlwind.

Now, years later, you’ve finished university, and Niall’s become more of a global superstar than the goofy kid you used to tease. But even with everything that’s changed, you’ve stayed close. The late-night phone calls, the random texts about nothing in particular, the inside jokes that only the two of you get—those things never changed.

Still, as much as you love Niall, you’ve been ready for your own chapter. You’ve just graduated with a degree in journalism and writing, and after months of searching for something meaningful to dive into, you’ve finally started to feel the pull of something more. Your dream of being a writer is no longer just a pipe dream. You’re excited for what comes next, but you also can’t help feeling a little apprehensive about what’s waiting for you beyond your comfort zone.

Then, your phone buzzes on the kitchen counter. It’s Niall.

“Hey!” His voice bursts through the speaker like it always does, upbeat and full of energy. You can already hear the smile in his tone. “So, I’ve got an idea.”

You smile, leaning against the counter, feeling a rush of affection for him. “What’s up?”

“How would you like to come on tour with us?” he asks, not skipping a beat. “We’re leaving in a couple weeks, and we need someone to write a book about all of it. The real behind-the-scenes stuff. The band, the fans, the drama, the life on the road—everything.”

You laugh, thinking it’s a joke. “Wait, what? You’re serious?”

“Dead serious,” he responds, his voice full of excitement. “You’ve got the skills, and you know us better than anyone. I want you to do it. You’ll travel with us, document everything, and I’ll bet it’ll be the best damn book about a boyband anyone’s ever written. What do you think?”

For a moment, you don’t know what to say. It’s overwhelming, but in the best way possible. You’ve always wanted to write, to tell stories, but this? This is massive. The opportunity of a lifetime. And yet, part of you hesitates. You’ve never met the other boys before, and the thought of traveling with a group of strangers—no matter how famous they are—makes your stomach flip.

“Are you sure about this?” you finally ask, trying to mask the excitement and nerves creeping into your voice. “It sounds like a lot of work. And what if I mess it up?”

“Come on,” Niall says with that laugh of his, the one that’s always put you at ease. “You’re perfect for this. Plus, it’s not like we’re strangers. It’ll be fun. We get to relive some old memories, and you get to see it all firsthand. You in?”

You close your eyes, letting the weight of the decision settle. You know what this means: the band, the tour, the chance to finally write something meaningful. But more than that, you know what it means for you and Niall. The old dynamic, the comfort of being around him, that part of your life you never quite let go of.

You take a deep breath. “Okay. I’m in.”

“I knew you would be!” Niall says, clearly relieved. “It’s going to be epic. Pack your bags, get ready. We’ll leave in a couple of weeks. I’ll send you all the details. Trust me, it’s going to be amazing.”

After you hang up, you sit in silence for a moment, your heart racing. You’ve just said yes to the adventure of a lifetime—and the reality of it all begins to sink in. But as excited as you are about the possibilities, you can’t ignore the odd twist of unease in your stomach.

It’s been years since you last got to spend day-to-day with Niall, and things are bound to be different now. You’ve never met the other band members, and while you know the names and faces, the thought of getting to know them on a personal level, of living in such close quarters, makes you nervous in a way you hadn’t expected.

Either way, you know this is just the beginning of something far bigger than you ever imagined.

...

You stand in front of your door, suitcase in hand, your heart pounding in your chest. It still feels surreal. You’re about to board a plane and fly across the world with Niall and the rest of One Direction. But before you can get too lost in your thoughts, your phone buzzes in your pocket.

It’s a message from Niall.

Niall: Can’t believe you’re actually coming. See you soon, bestie!

You smile at the screen, tapping out a quick reply.

You: Can’t wait! Been way too long!

You quickly double-check your bags—laptop, notebook, camera gear, clothes for a few weeks on tour. Satisfied, you sling the strap of your bag over your shoulder, step out, and lock the door behind you.

...

The airport’s bustling, but Niall’s the only one you’re looking for. As you scan the crowd, your eyes land on him. He’s standing near a gate, grinning as he waves at you, his familiar blonde hair unmistakable. His smile only widens when he spots you.

Your heart leaps in your chest, and before you can think twice, you break into a sprint, rushing to close the distance between the two of you.

"Niall!" you call, a huge grin spreading across your face as he opens his arms wide in anticipation.

You collide with him, and he wraps you in a tight, familiar hug. His laugh fills your ears, and you feel the weight of the last few months melt away as you press your cheek against his shoulder.

“I’ve missed you so much,” Niall says, his voice muffled in your hair. His arms tighten around you, holding you like he never wants to let go.

“I missed you too,” you reply, your voice slightly shaky as the reunion hits you harder than you expected. The last time you saw each other in person feels like a lifetime ago, even if you’ve kept in touch over calls and texts. This moment feels like it’s been building for years.

He pulls back slightly, his hands still resting on your shoulders, eyes scanning your face as if checking to make sure you’re really here. You wipe a tear from your cheek, not realizing it had escaped.

“Hey, hey, none of that,” Niall says, his tone soft but teasing as he brushes away the tear. “We’re about to have the time of our lives. You’re on tour with me now.”

“I can’t believe this is real,” you admit, laughing through the slight ache in your chest. “It’s crazy.”

“Well, we’ve got plenty of time for all the crazy stuff. Come on, let me introduce you to the lads.”

You follow Niall through the bustling terminal, your heart still racing, the excitement of finally being here mixed with the overwhelming feeling of being part of something bigger than you ever imagined. He leads you toward a small group of people standing by a gate.

“Everyone, this is my best friend,” Niall says, his arm draping around your shoulders as he gestures toward you. "The one I’ve been telling you all about."

You smile, a bit nervous, and wave. The first to step forward is Paul, the band’s security and tour manager. You’ve heard plenty of stories about him from Niall, and now you can see why Niall always speaks so highly of him. Paul offers you a warm handshake with a friendly grin.

“Nice to finally meet you, love,” Paul says, his voice as kind as his smile. “Niall’s said plenty about you. Glad you’re joining us.”

“Nice to meet you too,” you reply, feeling a little more at ease.

Niall then turns to introduce the rest of the group. First, he motions toward Zayn, who’s leaning back against the wall with his arms crossed. His eyes are calm, but there’s an edge of mystery to him that you immediately notice.

“Zayn,” Niall says with a grin. “Zayn, this is Y/N. My childhood best friend.”

Zayn gives you a small nod, a quiet, reserved smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “Nice to meet you,” he says softly, and you get the sense that’s as much as he’ll say for now.

Next is Harry, who’s standing a bit apart from the group, talking to someone on his phone. As soon as he spots you, though, his face lights up with a cheeky grin, and he waves dramatically.

“Niall’s childhood best friend, huh? It’s about time we met!” Harry says with a wink, clearly full of energy. You can’t help but smile at his playful nature.

“Nice to meet you, Harry,” you reply, feeling a little more relaxed now. Harry’s charm is undeniable.

And then, Liam. He’s standing a bit farther back, his arms crossed in a casual but steady manner, his warm brown eyes studying you with a quiet curiosity. When his eyes meet yours, he gives you a soft, welcoming smile that immediately makes you feel at ease. His calm demeanor is a sharp contrast to the others, and you find yourself drawn to his steadiness.

“Liam,” Niall says, clapping his friend on the back. “Liam’s the responsible one, but we’re all glad to have him around.”

Liam chuckles at Niall’s teasing, but his gaze softens as he turns to you. “It’s great to meet you, Y/N. I’ve heard a lot of good things from Niall.”

“Nice to meet you too,” you reply, smiling back at him. There’s something reassuring about Liam’s presence, his easy smile and calming aura making you feel like you’ve known him longer than you really have.

And then, your eyes lock with Louis.

He’s standing next to Harry, a playful smirk on his face, looking like he’s in the middle of some joke, but when his eyes meet yours, it’s like the rest of the world fades. For a moment, you forget to breathe.

He’s got that undeniable charm. His mischievous grin, the twinkle in his eye—it’s as if he’s daring you to figure him out, to get caught up in whatever chaos he’s about to stir up. There’s something magnetic about him. And when he sees your reaction, his smirk only deepens.

“Well, look what we have here,” Louis says, his voice smooth and teasing. “Niall’s childhood friend, huh? You’re already trouble, I can tell.”

You feel your cheeks flush under his gaze, but there’s a thrill in your stomach you can’t deny.

“Maybe,” you reply, trying to match his teasing tone. “But only if you’re lucky.”

Louis raises an eyebrow, clearly impressed by your confidence. “I like her already,” he mutters to Niall, who looks between the two of you, clearly sensing the spark.

Niall clears his throat. “Alright, alright, we’ll all have plenty of time to get to know each other,” he says, pulling you back into the fold as Paul motions for the group to start heading toward the private jet. “This tour’s gonna be a blast.”

You follow along, your mind still spinning from the brief exchange with Louis. There’s something about him that’s impossible to ignore. And as you glance back at Niall, you can’t shake the feeling that this trip might change more than just your career.

The private jet feels surreal as you board, the spacious interior a far cry from the cramped flight you’re used to. As you settle into your seat, Louis’ eyes flicker to you across the cabin, his gaze lingering just a little longer than necessary. The playful tension between you both is palpable, and you can’t help but wonder where this connection might go.

Liam sits nearby, glancing over at you and offering a kind smile. He gives off an air of calmness that’s almost reassuring as you glance at him, trying to calm the butterflies Louis stirred up in you.

You’ve only just arrived, but it feels like everything has already shifted.

....

You sink into your seat on the private jet, still trying to wrap your head around everything. It feels surreal that you’re actually here, on a jet with One Direction, about to fly off on tour. Niall is in the seat next to you, but the others are scattered around, chatting amongst themselves. You pull out your notebook and start jotting down a few initial thoughts—first impressions, really—trying to capture the feeling of this moment.

You glance up when Harry, always the first to stir up conversation, leans over from across the aisle, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

“So, what’s the plan for your book, then? Gonna write about how we’re all secretly really serious, no fun whatsoever?” Harry asks, his grin making it clear he’s teasing.

You chuckle and shake your head, tapping your pen against the notebook.

“Not quite. I think the fun side is more interesting, honestly. I mean, from what Niall’s told me, it’s like you guys are constantly in chaos.”

“I resemble that remark,” Niall says with a smirk, nudging your shoulder with his. “You haven’t seen anything yet.”

You turn to him, raising an eyebrow. “Is that a warning or a promise?”

“A little of both,” Niall replies, his grin widening. He leans back in his seat, clearly enjoying the banter.

“Keep an eye on Niall, yeah?” Louis pipes up from behind, his voice laced with playful concern. You turn to look at him, and he’s lounging with his feet up, giving Niall a teasing look. “He’s trouble. You’ll see soon enough.”

Niall shoots Louis a playful glare. “Says the guy who’s always starting pranks.”

Louis shrugs dramatically, but there’s a mischievous twinkle in his eyes as he holds your gaze for a moment longer than necessary. It sends a flutter through you. He’s effortlessly charming, and you can’t help but wonder if he knows exactly what he’s doing.

“I’ll try to behave,” you say, a grin tugging at your lips. You’re definitely not one to shy away from a bit of trouble.

Louis raises an eyebrow. “Behave? That’s cute.”

The banter continues, with the boys throwing in their own jokes and stories, and you find yourself starting to relax into the rhythm of it all. But there’s something about Louis that keeps drawing your attention. He’s clearly the most mischievous of the bunch, his carefree attitude infectious, and it’s hard to ignore the chemistry between you two. Every time you meet his eyes, it feels like there’s a new spark, one you didn’t expect but can’t deny.

You glance over at Niall, who's watching you with a small smile, but his eyes seem a little… protective. It’s subtle, but you catch it, the way he’s positioning himself between you and Louis, as if he wants to make sure things stay friendly. It makes your stomach twist with confusion. Niall’s your best friend, but lately, you’ve been noticing a strange tension in the air between you two.

“So, Y/N,” Zayn speaks up from across the cabin, pulling you out of your thoughts. “What’s your plan for this book of yours? You just gonna follow us around for the entire tour, jotting down everything we do?”

You shrug, making a face as you lean back in your seat. “Pretty much. I’m going to document the chaos, the funny moments, the behind-the-scenes stuff, and everything in between. I want it to feel real. Like, people can see the actual journey, not just the polished version they get on stage.”

“That sounds cool,” Liam adds, looking up from his phone. He seems a bit quieter than the rest, but his calm demeanor makes him someone you can easily talk to. “Are you worried about how the boys are gonna come across? I mean, we're kind of a mess sometimes.”

You smile, thinking for a moment. “No. If anything, it’ll make the book more interesting, right? The mess is what makes the story. No one wants to read a perfect band’s journey. They want the drama, the fun, and all the weird, awkward stuff that happens on the way.”

Liam chuckles, clearly approving of your honesty. “Fair enough.”

Your eyes flicker over to Louis again, only to find him already looking at you, a sly grin on his lips. “You think we’re all a mess now?” he asks, his voice playful but with a hint of something more. “You’ve seen nothing yet, love.”

You roll your eyes, trying to play it cool, but his words stir something in you. It’s easy to see why Niall warned you about Louis—he’s trouble, sure, but there’s something magnetic about him. Something that pulls you in every time he looks at you like that.

Before you can respond, Niall shifts in his seat, leaning a little closer to you. “Don’t listen to him, Y/N,” he says in a low voice that only you can hear. “Louis gets people in trouble. Just focus on your book and stay out of his pranks, yeah?”

You glance at Niall, surprised by the sudden protectiveness in his tone. He’s always been the carefree one, but there’s something different about the way he’s acting now. It’s like he doesn’t want you to get too close to Louis… or maybe he doesn’t want you getting too close to anyone.

“I’ll be fine, Niall,” you say, your voice light but with a hint of teasing. “I’m not a damsel in distress.”

Niall smiles, but you see the flicker of something else in his eyes—something deeper. “I know, but I’ll always have your back,” he says, nudging your shoulder again. You can feel the weight of his words, and it makes you wonder if maybe there’s more to Niall’s feelings for you than he’s letting on.

Louis, seemingly sensing the shift, doesn’t miss a beat. “Aww, Niall, so protective. You do know we’re all in this together, right?” he teases, flashing a grin that makes your heart skip.

“I’m fine, Louis,” you respond, though you can’t help but notice the playful glint in his eyes. “But I appreciate the warning.”

You glance between Niall and Louis, the air thick with a tension you didn’t expect. Both of them are watching you in their own way—Niall with a quiet protectiveness, Louis with that teasing spark that you know will only get more intense as the tour goes on. And you’re stuck somewhere in between, trying to figure out how to navigate the growing feelings you’re developing for both of them.

As the jet speeds toward its first stop, you lean back in your seat, scribbling in your notebook, trying to focus on the book that’s supposed to be your main priority. But deep down, you know this tour is going to be about more than just writing.

It’s about figuring out what’s really going on between you and Niall—and maybe, just maybe, exploring whatever it is that’s growing between you and Louis.

...

The wheels of the private jet touch down, and your stomach flips with a mix of nerves and excitement. You glance out the window at the unfamiliar skyline, your notebook open in your lap. There’s something about this moment—the rush of landing, the anticipation of stepping into a world you’ve only ever heard about—that makes your fingers itch to jot down every fleeting thought.

“First stop,” Niall says, grinning as he nudges you. “Ready for the madness?”

You glance at him, raising an eyebrow. “Define madness.”

Before Niall can respond, the plane’s door opens, and the roar of fans outside fills the cabin. You peek out the window and see a sea of people, some waving banners, others holding cameras. A lump forms in your throat as you realise this is their life—chaotic, relentless, and larger than anything you could’ve imagined.

“Madness,” Niall says simply, gesturing toward the crowd.

The boys start gathering their things, the energy in the cabin shifting into something more purposeful. You grab your notebook, scribbling furiously as you try to capture the moment: the thunderous cheers, the palpable excitement, the way the boys seem to transform—effortlessly stepping into their roles as superstars.

But as you’re writing, Louis saunters by, plopping into the seat across from you with a cheeky grin. “Taking notes already, love? What are you writing about me? The Handsome, Witty One?”

You roll your eyes, trying to suppress a grin. “More like ‘The Distracting One.’”

Louis gasps dramatically, clutching his chest as if wounded. “Distracting? Me? I’m just trying to help you with your little book. It’d be a shame if you missed the most charming member of the band.”

“You’re impossible,” you mutter, but there’s no heat in your words.

“Careful, Y/N,” Niall warns from behind, giving Louis a pointed look. “You might not survive this tour if you let him get to you.”

“Good thing I’m resilient,” you shoot back, earning a laugh from Niall and an exaggerated wink from Louis.

The group moves toward the terminal, where Paul is already coordinating with security. The boys are unfazed by the noise and chaos around them, chatting amongst themselves as if this is just another day. You, however, feel the weight of a hundred eyes on you as you trail behind, your notebook clutched tightly in your hand.

The fans outside scream even louder as the boys step into view, and you can’t help but watch in awe as they wave and smile, effortlessly charming the crowd. You scribble a note: Magnetic. The energy shifts when they’re together. They’re not just people—they’re a phenomenon.

“Careful you don’t trip while you’re writing,” Louis says, appearing at your side and startling you. He leans in closer, his voice dropping to a playful whisper. “Unless you want me to catch you.”

Your heart skips a beat, and you quickly shove the notebook into your bag. “I think I’ll manage, thanks.”

The car ride to the hotel is brief but no less chaotic. Fans line the streets, chasing the cars as security keeps them at bay. You try to take it all in, jotting down snippets of conversation and quick observations about the boys: Harry’s calm amidst the chaos, Zayn’s quiet focus, Liam’s subtle leadership, Niall’s easy laughter. And then there’s Louis, who seems to go out of his way to keep your attention on him, cracking jokes and leaning over to comment on whatever you’re writing.

“Don’t forget to mention my great hair,” he says, ruffling it dramatically.

“Your hair looks fine,” you reply, not looking up.

“Fine?” Louis echoes, his tone mock-offended. “You wound me, Y/N.”

By the time you arrive at the hotel, your notebook is a jumble of half-finished thoughts and fragmented sentences. The boys pile out of the car, and you follow, your eyes widening at the massive crowd gathered outside the hotel.

Security ushers you inside quickly, but not before you catch a glimpse of the fans pressed against the barricades, their faces full of excitement and hope. You can’t help but wonder what it must be like to be on the other side of that line—to have people scream your name and hang on your every word.

Once inside, Paul hands out room keys and gives everyone a quick rundown of the schedule. You’re still trying to process everything when Louis sidles up next to you again, a keycard dangling from his fingers.

“You look overwhelmed,” he says, his tone surprisingly soft.

“I’m fine,” you reply, though you’re not sure it’s entirely true.

Louis studies you for a moment, then grins. “Don’t worry, love. You’ll get used to it. And if you don’t, well… I’ll be here to make it worse.”

Before you can respond, Niall appears at your other side, his hand lightly brushing your arm. “Come on,” he says, his voice steady and reassuring. “I’ll show you to your room.”

You nod, grateful for the grounding presence of your best friend as he leads you away from the chaos. But as you follow him, you can’t help but glance back at Louis, who’s watching you with that same playful glint in his eyes.

Your heart races, and you remind yourself that you’re here to write a book—not to get swept up in the whirlwind that is Louis Tomlinson.

Or at least, that’s what you tell yourself.

...

Next chapter

[wellthatwasaletdown]

he was right about not wanting to exhaust the fanbase. // this anon’s been drinking from the zot3 hate blog’s teat. It’s the weakest excuse for why Harry went solo I’ve ever heard. If he hadn’t gone solo they could have had a break and then come back refreshed. But Harry was too disloyal. He was networking in search of a solo career from 2012. He was most honest about it when whined about having to share solos on songs he wrote. He just never likes to share the spotlight. Louis was obviously in a bit of denial. I’m sure he realised Harry was leaving when he didn’t want to sign on to tour MITAM. That’s why he said he felt like the band was ending when Zayn left. He knew they wouldn’t be able to tour as a three piece. Also I suggest your anon takes a good look at Niall’s face at the end of their last performance of history. That’s not the face of a man relishing his freedom from the band. Niall wanted to tour so he (like Louis) took the opportunity to go solo when it was presented to him and his management and label pushed to have him release as soon as possible. Zayn and Niall releasing music first doesn’t change the fact that Harry was planning for his solo career almost from the start. It’s fine for Harry to want a solo career but one of the consequences of leaving a band to go solo is that people who liked the band, including fans and other band mates might not like it and get to say so. Harry is a grown man. Harries need to stop babying him.

.

[ficsyoumayhavemissed]

🏳️‍🌈 Moths and Butterflies — LadyAj_13 / @ladyaj-13

1.363 words / Harry x Louis

It seemed like such a good plan a week ago. It had seemed like fate, for the town’s Pride parade to fall at the very same time when work sent him there to charm some clients. Who was Louis, to sniff at a higher power? It was exciting, a week ago. Now he’s here though, in the thick of it, and he thought it would feel freeing but it doesn't. It just rams home how he doesn’t belong.

This is a lovely fic for anyone who has ever questioned whether they are queer enough to belong in the queer community. You are, and this fic will remind you of it whenever you need it.

🏳️‍🌈 Quite the Pickle — @lululawrence

1.455 words / Grimmy x Harry x Louis

Nick hated pickles. It was an entire thing for him and he used to get into arguments all the time when his mum insisted he could just remove them and the sandwich would be fine without them. She never seemed to understand. The flavor was still left behind because of the juices. The scent was still there. The pickle was never fully removed. Not successfully. And now one was sitting on the plate, almost touching his perfectly pickle free sandwich, all whilst leaking it’s flavor and scent all over his chips. Good thing there happened to be a pregnant man with a craving nearby.

An adorable, cozy meet-cute between a couple and a stranger, this fic has so much goodness in so few words. From the struggle of pregnancy cravings to the unexpected pleasure of finding people who will accept you as you are, it’s a fun little roller coaster you don’t want to miss. 

🏳️‍🌈 Over The Heads Of The Crowd — DancingOnCapitals

3.232 words / Harry x Louis

Harry attends a fandriven LGBTQIA+ event to support the queer part of his favourite band's fandom and probably also some members of said band when he spots the most beautiful person he's ever seen.

Love at first sight it’s always nice, but gay love at first sight is something special in itself. A meet-cute fic where they share a bed... What else could you ask for?

🏳️‍🌈 Courted in Cabos — @alphalouis 

5.511 words / Louis x Oli 

Oli's spent his whole life with Louis Tomlinson. More accurately, he’s waited his whole life for Louis to pop the question. When Louis invites him to Los Cabos, he thinks this will be it. So he waits. And he waits. Eventually it becomes clear Louis won’t make the first move. He decides to take matters into his own hands.

Absolutely adorable! Friends pining on each other is always such a nice trope to read. Seeing the development of their relationship was really cute, and this fic is more than worth a shot, considering Niall’s special additions. 

🏳️‍🌈 falling in love with the stable boy — @sup3rbloom

5.620 words / @1dreversebang / Harry x Louis 

Louis is the son of King Tomlinson, and now that he's older, he's interested in learning horseback riding. King Tomlinson assigns Harry, the kingdom's stable boy, to train him. It's love at first sight for Louis, and this wouldn't be a problem if being gay wasn't wrong in the kingdom.

This fic is a little heartbreaking, considering how Louis' own family might reject him for something he doesn’t have a choice in, however it was extremely cute how Harry, Zayn and Liam were there to always protect Louis. 

——

As always, support the authors by leaving kudos and comments! Happy reading!

Since it's Pride Month, we want to bring attention to our other three related tags and past recommendations:

COMING OUT;

GENDERQUEER;

LGBTQIA STORIES;

PRIDE REC

And to take the opportunity to mention that the @projectotb is back this year and also running a drabble fest, and give a shoutout to the @1dpridefest which is currently happening, so don't miss the chance and support all the amazing writers and creator participating!

If you love a fic that has gotten less love than you think it deserves, submit it to us so we can check it out and perhaps add it to one of our recs! — FYMHM xx

[louisisalarrie]

Don’t you find Louis constant engagement with all the boys (even Zayn’s) lives on social media except Harry’s is so loud? And I guess it can be seen to “prove” that he and Harry’s friendship ended, as the narrative goes, but only if we don’t care to look at it on anything deeper than surface level. Because if we do, it’s glaringly obvious that they were always so close. So it leaves us with the only reason for the lack of interaction is that we are right in our understanding that they’re not allowed to. They are protecting, as Louis said in his documentary, “the relationship”. I mean, for someone who is so proud of the band and his boys, it’s got to be that, right? Or am I missing something huge?

Oh it’s absolutely very telling, and continues to run with the narrative that HL are enemies. It’s so awful. And Harry has made some massive achievements throughout the years (as they all have), and Louis has never congratulated him once. He’s been vocal supporting Liam and Niall, hell, even liked a Zayn Insta pic a while back, but total radio silence when it comes to Harry. And it’s very frustrating. I’m shocked he even follows him on Instagram, to be honest. Because Harry doesn’t follow any of them (which is sooooo yikes).

Sure, he’s mentioned Harry in interviews before saying a nice thing here and there when prompted, (including being proud of Harry in Dunkirk) so his name isn’t entirely blacklisted from Louis’ PR opps, but that’s also because name dropping Harry is good for Louis’ publicity. But I’m sure it’s also because Louis wants to talk about him.

However, I think if they seed a coming out, it’ll have to start on social media. Harry following Louis back, and then a congratulations tweet here and there, or something. There will need to be that visibility and connection before any pap photos happen, or they’re spotted in public together. But for now, Louis and Harry are either a) still encouraged and advised against interacting with each other, b) wanna keep things settled and private while they can before exploding their fandom(s), and/or c) all of the above.

But, we know louis supports him thoroughly outside of the public eye

[kingsofeverything]

Happy 28th!!! A couple of faves from this year:

https://www.tumblr.com/gaymoustache/715727749746180096/tupelo-honey-by-superglass

https://www.tumblr.com/28goldens/734080510252515328/apple-pie-baked-just-right-rated-e-99k

https://www.tumblr.com/harruandlou/729093004810502144/you-were-in-my-dream-e-59k

https://www.tumblr.com/harruandlou/732799638679273472/i-was-yours-i-wish-you-were-mine-e-55k

thanks, anon!

Tupelo Honey by superglass

“What,” Louis starts, always hating how silence like this drives him crazy, “what exactly are you gaining from all this? All this, following a mediocre band around. Why do you do that?” Harry giggles around her cigarette, looking out at the alley. When she smiles, her teeth peek out behind her red lips, giving him the chills— right down to his core. He doesn’t think he’s ever seen a smile so pretty. So enthralling he can’t take his eyes off of it. “I’ve got nothing better to do, Louis.” or Louis is a roadie for a rock band, and Harry is their groupie. 1970s au.

apple pie baked just right by 28goldensfics

“You’re sweet, thank you.” Harry was speaking so quiet it was almost eerie, but his fingers squeezed against Louis’ hand again. “I already feel like I can pretty much be myself with you. I’m glad you moved here, I’ve needed a friend. I hope you keep getting that breath of fresh air you need here.” Louis’ heart felt like it could pound out of his chest and onto the floor in front of them. “I’m starting to think I will.” — Louis has to get away. The news of his father’s terminal diagnosis, the loss of his job, and the breakup with his girlfriend leads Louis to leave for a life of slower things in the small town of Cedar Hills. His new neighbor is the Cox Family Apple Farm. Harry Styles, the oldest child of the Cox Family, might just teach him how to live life a little simpler, bake an apple pie, and breathe.

you were in my dream by staybeautiful

“I had a sex dream about Harry.” Louis slapped his free hand over his mouth after the words slipped out. Zayn paused, his hand freezing as he was about to take a bite, his head snapping up to look at Louis. Louis could relate, it’s how he’d felt that morning after he’d woken up. He’d laid in bed for fifteen minutes trying to figure out what had happened, why it had turned him on so much, and then patiently waiting for his erection to go down. “Like… my Niall’s Harry? Harry Styles?” Zayn clarified, his face bewildered as if trying to comprehend what had just happened. “Do you even like Harry?” “His last name is Styles?” or Louis woke up after having a sexy dream about his best friend’s boyfriend’s best friend resolved to never think about it again. He hardly knew Harry, so what difference would it make? But when they are thrown together only a few days later, Louis had to admit, his subconscious might have been onto something.

i was yours (i wish you were mine) by staybeautiful

“Harry Styles!” His name rang out clear through the city streets. He turned quickly back to the bar, startled by his own name and startled by the voice that called him. Standing in the doorway to the bar, back lit and glowing slightly was Louis. Not an eighteen year old apparition dressed in the same low slung blue jeans and t-shirt with swooping bangs that was always the image in his mind. No, he was Louis now. or Ten years ago Harry dropped his best friend and high school boyfriend off at the train station and never saw him again. Now, he's twenty seven, living in NYC, and dreadfully unlucky in love. He can't stop wistfully thinking of Louis promising that they'd see each other again in ten years time. A chance meeting outside a bar has them tumbling head first into a summer of music, milkshakes, and maybe each other.

SEND ME YOUR FAVORITE FICS FROM 2023

[allwaswell16]

A One Direction fic rec of fics that deal with mental illness in some way as requested in this ask. If you enjoy the fics, please leave kudos and comments. You can find my other recs here.

- Louis / Harry -

✧ rather be sad with you (than anywhere away from you) by ohsailor

(E, 145k, uni) Louis, Niall, and Liam have already been living together for four years when they get a new roommate. Harry’s in pre-med and Louis is struggling to graduate and fulfill his family’s hope of him becoming an esteemed lawyer while battling his mental health.

✧ My Lights Stay Up, But Your City Sleeps by PearlyDewdrops

(E, 108k, fwb) Louis has trouble sleeping, Harry has a habit of wrapping himself around Louis during the nights, and a mutual agreement to engage in a fun and simple thing quickly turns into something perhaps not so fun, and certainly not simple.

✧ another dream but always you by you_explode / @nobodymoves

(M, 66k, superpower) Harry is a Dreamwalker; he has the ability to visit people in their dreams and help put them on the right path. He's assigned to Louis, who's struggling after the break-up of his band. 

✧ From This Moment On by therogueskimo / @bravetemptation

(NR, 52k, famous/not famous) Louis Tomlinson needs a tour photographer, and he thinks he's found the one in the mysterious H on Instagram. Harry Styles swore he'd never do tour photography again - that is, until he did.

✧ knives don't have your back by @turnyourankle

(M, 51k, uni) The lone survivor of an on campus massacre that claimed the lives of his four housemates, Harry is urged to take a sabbatical or transfer. Instead, he chooses to stay in school, move into the dorms, and overcome his fears.

✧ we should open up (before it's all too much) by @disgruntledkittenface

(M, 43k, vampire Louis) Struggling with grieving and depression since his dad died, Harry has never felt so alone. It’s too much to cope with on his own, but he feels like a burden when he tries to open up with people. Then he meets Louis.

✧ there now, steady love (so few come and don't go) by we_are_the_same / @so-why-let-your-voice-be-tamed

(M, 42k, supernatural) It becomes just another fact of life. The sky is blue. The grass is green. Louis sees when people are about to die.

✧ Here (In Your Arms) by @afangirlfantasy

(G, 42k, enemies to lovers) College AU where Louis is the upperclassman frat boy with problems too deep for alcohol to drown out, and Harry is the stereotypical freshman with plans to figure out who he is.

✧ You and Me by delsicle / @eeveedel

(E, 36k, Dunkirk) Alex goes to war. He comes back and everything is the same -- his hometown, his flat, the boy with the bad heart he left behind. Everything is same. Except for him.

✧ Lead Butterfly by LadyLondonderry / @londonfoginacup

(M, 32k, pirates) When the ship Harry lives on is boarded and overtaken by the crew of The Lady Charlotte, he thinks it’s going to be the end of the line. What he’s not expecting is to be brought onto the ship and provided safe passage. At least, as long as no one finds they’ve mistaken a common pirate for a noble.

✧ To Give You a Hand to Hold by gettingaphdinlarry

(NR, 26k, military) Marine Louis Tomlinson is medically discharged when an IED explodes in Afghanistan. Months later, he's reunited Stateside with his Navy medic Harry Styles. The two of them shelter each other even as they refuse to admit they're in the throes of PTSD, until one night nearly destroys them.

✧ With These Arms Folded by @taggiecb

(NR, 21k, famous/not famous) Harry Styles is living a peaceful existence in California as a very successful songwriter. That is until he receives a curious email one sunny summer morning, and his life almost immediately gets turned upside down

✧ You're A Universe by Jiksa / @jiksax

(E, 15k, kid fic) Louis’s a stay-at-home dad in London and Harry’s a business expat in Qatar. Louis doesn’t know how much longer their marriage can survive the distance.

✧ the colors that i can't change by bravestyles / @bravestylesao3

(NR, 15k, hurt/comfort) Harry has Dissociative Identity Disorder, and Louis tries his best to understand.

✧ You're a Habit Hard to Break by LiveLaughLoveLarry / @loveislarryislove

(T, 11k, exes) Everyone deals with breakups differently. Louis feels everything all at once -- hurt, anger, sadness. Harry feels nothing at all. They're two broken people, but they don't know how to fix themselves alone.

✧ your best fake smile by YesIsAWorld / @louandhazaf

(G, 6k, first date) Harry reluctantly agrees to a first date with Louis at Coney Island.

✧ You've Got A New Life (Am I Bothering you?) by LilyBlue28

(NR, 5k, omegaverse)  the one where Louis is an omega who suffers from PTSD and is triggered one day. He doesn't know how to ask for help from his doting alpha, doesn't think he deserves it, and tries to handle it on his own.

✧ I'm Falling Again by @jaerie

(M, 3k, canon) Just like the last three times, his call went straight to voicemail, driving home the fact of just how badly he’d fucked up.

- Rare Pairs -

✧ You Don't Care About Me (One More Night) by @lululawrence

(NR, 60k, Louis/Nick Grimshaw) the one where Louis pines for Harry and Nick helps ease his way into figuring himself out through a friends with benefits sort of arrangement. Things quickly turn complicated.

✧ Lost Coastlines by pukeandcry

(T, 21k, Harry/Nick Grimshaw) It's been a year since Harry and Niall died in a plane crash – only it turns out they didn't, because they've just been rescued from the island they've been stranded on, and Harry is suddenly back in Nick's life, not quite good as new.

[ziamln]

Long ramble post. [1D]

I’m feeling nostalgic, overanalysing shit, and bored on a Thursday night with nothing to do. You can read this or skip over it, especially if you disagree, I’m not looking for drama. This will probably be messy and incoherent with 0 structure. For those of you who weren’t there during the 1D era, this may be confusing, particularly if you weren’t there during the shit storm that was 2015/16. Again, feel free to skip this, as it will be long and probably won't make sense, but this is my blog so you don’t necessarily have to agree with me. Before I go into this I feel like I need to clarify, I am proud of all 5 boys and their solo careers, I support them all wholeheartedly, and my saying I miss OT5 doesn’t mean I don’t. some things are facts stated by the boys others are merely a speculation or my own deduction from what has been implied or reading between the lines, just to put that out there. Bear in mind I am a Ziam blog, Liam and Zayn have always been my focal point, and always will be and I also have a Louis [& slight Larry] bias so, do what you will with that information. Basically feel free to skip!

It was so good to see Zayn in an interview after so long [I can't lie it's so weird hearing people commenting on his talking voice as something new and unusual], but hopefully, he’ll actually get better promo for this upcoming album, I’m super excited either way, his music is rarely short of anything but a masterpiece. But there’s a line in Zayn’s recent podcast which stuck out to me.

Personally, I found this intriguing, because at least to me, I feel as though it explains quite a few things. Particularly regarding Zouiam [Zayn, Louis and Liam], I’m not saying it didn’t apply to Niall or Harry but, I feel like it provides some sort of perspective on things others have speculated on, and also some things I have speculated on. Again, this is merely a speculation on my part, you don’t have to agree [scrolling is very easy]. I will not claim to know as much as I may have known about all 5 of them as I did 8 years ago, admittedly, though I support most of the boys through listening to their music, I don’t pay much attention beyond that to anyone other than Zayn, Liam and sometimes Louis, this isn’t to say I don’t like Niall, I enjoy his music or Harry, I have always been a Ziam/ Zouiam account and have always stuck to them, and as solo artists, I prefer their music, even during their time as a band. [As I’m sure many have a preference for the other boys. I don’t see an issue with it unless it is purposefully disrespectful or hateful to others.]

I know a lot of people are stuck on the line of how after ‘5 years together they all got sick of one another’, which is understandable and perhaps almost inevitable. [Personally, as someone with a sibling I definitely understand the sentiment] I don’t see any malice or drama in it, it would naturally happen to anyone after so many years of constantly being together, with barely any breaks and performing together non-stop for almost 5 years. It would catch up to even the most patient of people, especially considering how they were literally teenagers/ young adults the whole time. Nothing he said in that interview was hateful at all.

Also not to dismiss his line about how he said "I completely selfishly wanted to be the first person to go and make my own record." with this, whilst I’m not saying it’s untrue because it could be true that that's what happened. But I can’t deny its a little confusing because of the number of times the story of his reasoning for leaving the band has been changed throughout the years, initially, it started as him citing stress and saying he wanted to be a ‘normal 22-year-old’, then it was that he said there was ‘never any room for me to experiment creatively’ made sense as it was rumoured that his writing had been snubbed on Four and it could possibly be a mixture of all the reasons combined. But my point is we have been given many different reasons, but we will probably never know the full truth, so at this point, it's anyone’s guess as to what the actual reasoning was.

Of course, there is no doubt that behind the scenes of the entire One Direction era was a complete shit show, as has been stated/ hinted at by most if not all members at this point in some way, shape or form. So we can only begin to imagine the stress and pressure they were constantly put through. There is a lot we don’t know about that time, and probably never will. Some things are perhaps even traumatic for the boys who had to go through it, all we can do is speculate and be as supportive as possible as fans. 

I mean I feel like this trauma has presented itself in different ways with each member, perhaps in ways we will never know, Zayn himself has stated that we could never understand that time as it is something only they would get. 

In terms of image and what they show; Niall is quiet, unproblematic and as far as I’m aware he seems pretty much like, other than his music and tours, he keeps to himself. Harry from my impression, is a loudly quiet person, by this I mean, he comes across as loud as though he divulges a lot, people may claim he is the one who people have the most knowledge of, which is true to an extent. But in terms of his personal life, there are limitations, understandable of course, but it seems to me we only know what we are shown and the rest is left to be read between the lines. 

Louis, I feel as though we learn more about him through his music, his private life is fairly private, other than what he talks about and what we are shown, [side note: not everything that we are shown is necessarily how it is/true, this applies to all 5 boys] Louis is also quite an interesting case, we saw him get progressively quieter as time went on, especially in comparison to how he was in 2010/11, [many fans who believe in Larry attribute this to him being pushed into the closet and having to hide his more ‘flamboyant nature’] or it could be a simple case of all the stress and difficult life events taking its toll, or even [I think it's likely] a combination of all of this. Either way, it has been disheartening to witness.

Zayn has always been the most misunderstood I think. As Zayn himself said, they were all given personas and that has stuck with them from their time in the band, even until this present day I would say, [I wish some would consider this in Liam's case but that's for another post]. If you saw Zayn from 2010/11 he wasn’t particularly ‘mysterious’ or such, in fact, he was quite boisterous and funny if my memory serves me correctly, but again If the management wanted them to have a certain persona they were going to make sure it stuck. Zayn has always kept his private life exactly that, private. Typically in the case of his relationships [I would say this applies to some of Liam's also] but the main times we would hear about Zayn's relationships is if it was to make Zayn out to be a bad guy or to benefit the woman he was dating at the time through PR or some way as such, which is quite telling in itself.

Liam, again, people would think Liam is quite public and we know a lot about him but if you pay close attention, it's not the case at all. We don't know anything other than what we are told by the press or what we see. This is the case for all of them but as we know, from recent videos that Liam has done, there are a lot of other factors at play and a lot of distortion of stories and such that happens that we will never truly understand, we can only look out for it.  [another side note: IMO Liam is the full package he’s got the vocal range, the lyrical range, the melodies the dance moves, the fashion but he got so sabotaged and that pisses me off so much.]  Liam had always been the spokesperson for One Direction whilst in the band. Some people, particularly some groups of ‘fans’ or newer fans think that all his talking about 1D is him ‘trying too hard’ or whatever else to bash him. But the truth is, if you look closer, he never really stopped being the spokesperson for the band. He speaks on all of their solo endeavours, all of their achievements, indulges the nostalgic fans and is the one who most openly shows his support, he still holds the role of the spokesperson, just in a different manner. 

At a point you would seldom hear them talk about their One Direction days, unless you are the spokesperson... [it has become more frequent now], which is understandable as they are now Solo artists and perhaps wanting away from that image, but it is also quite curious in a way. But that is best left for another ramble. However, up until recently, I feel like the boys who have spoken the most about the band have been, in a sense, allocated to speak more on the topic than others [Personally I link this to the Politics comment, I’ll explain a little later on] But I find it interesting as to the different reactions we get from certain groups about each member when they do speak about their time in One Direction. Typically, Harry and Niall are met with positive reactions, with a few exceptions of course. Zayn sits in between, some of it gets regarded with nostalgia, other reactions are positive and hopeful and then the outright negativity too. Louis again sits in the middle. Liam however, you do of course get nostalgia and of course positive reactions from his fans and some OT5 fans. However, this is severely outweighed by the negativity he receives for it from *certain* ‘fans’ and some newer fans and just general people who like to jump on the hate bandwagon [side note: my god I miss 2013/2014 1D Twitter].

I’m not sure how many remember ‘Weed Gate’, how this was in a way at the time ‘damaging’ to the clean image they had and how much shit it was speculated to have caused behind the scenes, involving Zayn and Louis. 

Louis and Zayn take a video doing weed in a car in one of the Peru (where weed isn’t illegal) on tour, there started some articles that make it sound like Zayn was sick or addicted to drugs. I feel like this was also a big player in how things turned out, Zayn took most of the heat from this and from our end it looked like no one did a thing to help. [We don't know what happened BTS]. Particularly interesting from this headline was the reiterating of the ‘squeaky clean image’, not long after this there were articles about 1D not getting along that came out of nowhere, particularly about how Harry was really angry with them and such. Even more interestingly disgustingly, Zayn took on most of the heat from this despite Louis also being in the video. 

Not long after this, Zayn missed some promo interviews and the album release in Orlando because of 'illness’, they get asked on the Today show if it’s actually because of drugs [entirely inappropriate] Liam, [looking pissed] reiterated it was a stomach bug. it would also be poignant to point out that Zayn looked very unwell at the time [I would think this would be regarding the eating disorder he previously mentioned] but many thought and press stated it as being related to drugs. At the time he was also, as he did throughout his time in the band, until this very day in fact, received disgusting prejudice and hate based on his religion and ethnicity. 

To touch lightly on the politics comment: obviously, we won't know the full extent. But if one were to speculate on the matter; we know certain people had been trying to pinch Harry since pretty early on in the band, so it would make sense that some of the comments Zayn made about the contracts make a lot of sense, I feel like it also links well with what Louis said about Harry calling the Hiatus. 

‘Certain people didn’t want to sign contracts,’ This line is so vague, but at the same time, I feel like it could be linked to a number of things. It could have been Harry wanting to leave to go solo. If you believe in Larry and Ziam it could have been a harsher contract regarding keeping them hidden with more shit attached. It could have been regarding the music they make, ridiculous NDA’s or any number of things, the speculation could be endless. However, it further reiterates the point that we can never understand fully what was at play behind the scenes, as much as we would like. But one thing we did see was how the boys went from being seemingly happy, excited and relatively carefree to burdened, exhausted and jaded which is somewhat self-explanatory [fuck 1DHQ]. I was going to add a bit about their images regarding the politics but I believe that is best left for another post.

If you think the boys are free/ ever have been, I’m sorry to burst your bubble but I doubt that has ever been the case, be that within the band or as solo artists. Feel free to check out this post if you require more insight, https://www.tumblr.com/yaz-the-spaz/662781923367747584?source=share. I don't think we could ever understand, nor will we ever know the extent of what the boys were/ have been put through. Hence why they all say they have a special bond because only they understand. I feel as though villainizing any particular member is very harmful, because at the end of the day at the time they were kids doing something so amazing that hadn't really been done on that scale before. What I do find gross is the fact that some refuse to speak up about the unnecessary hate certain groups give to other members [that again is another post entirely]. At the same time, it is important to remember whilst it might seem like other members have more freedom than others, which could be the case, it doesn't mean any of them are entirely free.

I’d say back to my point, but I wasn't particularly trying to make one in this post, this was simply an info/ speculative ramble, you don't have to agree with what has been said. But if you did read through, I’d love to, respectfully, of course, hear your thoughts, and opinions on everything. I will make posts on everything I’ve said requires its own post because I feel as though there is a lot to talk about on a number of topics so they will come in due time. 

At the end of the day, as Zayn [and Liam in the past] said; “You know, we’ve done crazy things with each other and that nobody else in the world will ever understand or have them. Experiences that we've shared.”

But yeah, all in all, it was good to hear Zayn talk about his chickens and describe himself as a chill, funny and loving guy because it's so much more true to him than being painted as mysterious and I love that for him.