My bestiesss! I'm here and I'm so excited for this update. A huge chunk of it was written a while ago, and ever since I just couldn't wait to finish it (and post it)!

The main man is back, so I hope you enjoy it!

And ED made it to 71K! I can't believe it. I love all of you, my rosy tulips 🌷

Also, if you haven't followed me on Twitter, please do so. Snippets and sneak peeks on there. Same @ as on here!

♬ ✥*

Harry.

Today was a very important day.

Today was the day that things were going to change.

There was also one thing that pushed me to make this happen — no fucking way was I going to let Madison ruin my life any further.

I was done with her and the bullshit that she drilled into my mind.

Serenity showed me so many things and made me ultimately believe that I had complete control over my emotions, thoughts, and actions. Whether or not it was big or small, I could do it, and no one was going to stop me from that.

And even if they wanted to — fuck them.

Harry Styles was not some puppet or a robotic machine that only functioned when it had a mastermind behind it. I was my own leader and I was in control.

And for fuck's sake, I was a human being. I deserved to have perceptions and deeds — and feelings.

The term that Serenity called her — that bitch — suited my ex, quite well I might add. Of course, that's if anyone was to ask about her, I'd say the same thing. That's precisely what she was, and there was no way to sugarcoat that.

Not many things about me were going to change, though. Enhancing the better part of me and remove the destructive thoughts my ex drilled deep into my soul were my goals.

Every time I'm with Serenity, I feel a boost of serotonin in my body, and it's not just because she's around me, but she gives off positive vibes. It's strange, but whenever that woman walks into a room, anyone can find some form of happiness and joy on the spot — she's hypnotic.

I woke up earlier this morning, checked my emails and missed calls, then washed up. There was something I added that was never in my routine before — making myself breakfast. I made it for Essie once, and it was successful for the most part, but it was the first time for just me.

Linda was already here, so she helped me make it if I needed it. Needless to say, she was surprised as fuck, but she didn't comment on it. Of course, I could see her expressions throughout, and she was definitely grinning for obvious reasons. It was far from a five-star meal, but something proper that I could say that I had involvement in it. I also asked if she could give me tips on making dinner without burning my condo down, and she said she'd help me. I hoped that one day I could prepare a lovely evening for Serenity and me — one day.

I was proud of myself.

I even decided to go up and check on my garden. The weather was colder, but I made sure everything was still okay. When it was built, I decided to pick out the best materials for the bloom's protection — I'd never do anything to harm them.

I cared about others' happiness and care, but I never once really thought about myself. That was another thing that was going to change.

Because looking at my pride and joy made me happy.

When I went back down to get ready, an eager smile was on my face — I was already prepared and waiting for this moment to finally arrive.

Securing my cufflinks, I slipped on my suit jacket, buttoning them, and smoothed down the lapels. I glanced into the mirror to see a new reflection of myself.

I was always a confident person, and I never really cared about my looks. Then again, there was nothing really to alter about it. My appearance remained the same over the past few years, and I never bothered to see myself differently — well, only in the way my ex wanted to see me.

However, not anymore — never anymore.

Running my fingers gently through my hair, smoothing out anything out of place, I smiled at my final appearance. My back stood tall with poise and intimidation because, in the end, this was who I always was.

Just an improved version.

With a satisfied grin, I grabbed my things and made my way down to the lobby.

The moment I walked through the area towards the main doors, jaws were dropped, and eyes went wide from all of the workers. They've never seen me like this, and they were going to have to get used to it. I knew that I was going to be stared at, especially with what I was wearing. It was the first time I wasn't going to blend into a crowd, but stand out in one.

I enjoyed taking my time, though — it felt good being watched and knowing that I could make heads turn with my presence alone. My outfit was a definite add-on, but the whole 'me' was something I was very proud of.

People say that if you've got it, you should flaunt it — and that's precisely what I was doing.

Then, there was Archie, who I knew was already waiting for me. He's always been a prompt and kind man — he deserved a raise.

When I reached him, he wasn't surprised by my appearance, but instead, he had an expected grin on his face. He seemed to always know what was best for me without even saying it.

Just like the way he drove me to Serenity's apartment from the airport or when he took me to hers instead of mine when I was sick. He knew I needed someone by my side, and he saw right through the stubborn personality she had and only caught on to the kindness and care she carried.

He definitely had a good judge in character. It was a quality that I wished I had, but I knew someone else who possessed it — my Essie.

"Mr Styles, I must say, this is the best you've looked in all the years that I've known you." A smile broke out on his face.

You're not the only one who thinks that — me, too, Arch.

A vibrant rusty-ginger suit adorned my body, with a black button-down, tie and matching loafers. It was tailored perfectly as per my request. The hue complimented my skin tone, creating no contrast, but a mere harmony of flawlessness. But most importantly, there was one thing that was new to my everyday wear — the glasses that graced my face.

As Archie said, I honestly never looked better.

Of course, it's not like I'll never go back to wearing black or grey again because I loved those shades. However, now was the perfect time for a positive change. Colour was added to the mix of clothing in my closet, and I was excited to try them all.

"Thank you, Archie," I said with a smile. "Let's get going, yeah?"

"Would you like to make a stop to see Miss Hayes?"

I've noticed that whenever she's not with me, he always refers to her in a formal matter. He's always had so much respect for everyone — even if it's my girl.

"Not today. I want her to come to me." I grinned, letting his eyes in the rearview mirror.

"When does she not?" He chuckled.

"She's a bit temperamental, that one. It might piss her off, which is exactly what I want." My words were truthful, and I honestly couldn't wait for the near future.

"Well, sir, it's not the first time you've irritated that poor girl."

"She'll live. Essie's got a big heart with a stubborn soul." I chuckled.

There's also one thing else that's changed — I don't care about mentioning her nickname in front of the people I'm close with. That wasn't a lot of people, barely a handful, but it's still progress for me. I didn't want to flaunt my relationship with her because simply, it wasn't anyone else's business. They could go fuck themselves if they wished to or tried to talk about us.

However, I was well aware that people in my company were already talking about her and saying concocted things about how she worked her way into my life and just wants my money. That was a load of bullshit.

I knew that wasn't true because she hasn't taken a penny from me other than my investment. The times we've gone out to a café for lunch, she's somehow worked her way to pay for our meal. It pissed me off every single time, but she always had a bright smile on her face that I couldn't take that away. She looked so fucking beautiful.

It was hard to ignore what people would say, though, but Serenity managed to do so. If she had a problem with it or was bothered by it, I would immediately acknowledge the fact and make an announcement about it. Basically, I would kindly tell them to fuck off, and it wasn't any of their business; but Essie wouldn't be too happy about that.

Riling her up caused a peeved expression, which would end up for no kisses for me.

No fucking chance was I letting that happen.

Nonetheless, it was fun to do so. I was beginning to know specific ways to get around that and still getting those kisses.

I loved h—her kisses.

Yes. Just those.

"Oh, yes. She surely does," Archie agreed, and I laughed.

Work could wait. I needed to breathe sometimes.

Unfortunately, last night we were separated, and I was forced to sleep in my condo. I finished late last night that I didn't want to bother her by coming in past midnight. She did sleepily call me when I texted her I was in bed, but she fell asleep on the phone. I could hear her adorable little snores, and it was my personal lullaby that helped me fall into a deep slumber. I did also cuddle the pillow she slept on when she was here, because her scent still lingered in the fabric. She was near me even though she physically wasn't.

I was so fucking whipped for that woman, and anyone who dared to make fun of me for that could choke.

And just like my building, the second I stepped foot in my company, heads were turned, and shocked expressions were all around. It was just something they had to start getting used to.

I sent a single nod to the working staff at the front with a smile and the only person who returned it was one of my security guards — Mark.

People thought that I couldn't hear them, but I definitely did — and I wasn't bothered by them.

"Are you seeing what I'm seeing?"

"Is that actually him? Mr Styles? You're fucking joking."

"Damn. He looks so good. I thought he was attractive before, but now, wow," And the reply from a fellow colleague, "That Serenity girl is so lucky. I'll gladly take him to my bed."

I snickered. Not a fucking chance. I already have an angel who I love having in my bed.

And there was my personal favourite.

"Hold up. Anyone see him wear glasses before? That's different, but I kinda like it. He looks hot."

Damn right, I fucking do.

Just as the metal doors to my temporary confinement close, I let out a deep breath, taking in everything that happened in the past hour and a half. It was too much, but it was just enough for me to process properly without feeling any form of anxiety.

Pride continued to fill my veins, and it made my heart warm and content.

When I reached my floor, it was quick to see that Iris had the same expression, one that didn't last long before she smirked.

"Good morning, Mr Styles," she greeted.

"Morning," I replied, "Get Essie on the phone. Schedule an urgent meeting with her."

It wasn't exactly early — just after seven-thirty — but I knew that she was free today and planned on sleeping in.

Sorry, baby girl. Not today. It's too important.

"With regards to what?" she asked innocently.

Nice try, Iris.

"I get you're my PA, but this is a private meeting, and I don't want you to know the contents of it. Get her on the phone, and be firm. Send Archie to pick her up ASAP, and then do your job. Understood?"

"Of course." Her grin never faded at my stern tone.

She was the best, but has recently been the most frustrating personal assistant that I've ever had.

But now, it was time to get some work done before my girl got here because I knew the moment she stepped foot in my office, I was screwed.

♬ ✥*

It was an hour and a half since I requested Iris to call Serenity. I was immediately notified when she arrived at the company. Archie even sent me a text when he picked her up, saying that she was not thrilled with how urgent I'd requested her.

She was not excited, but I was fucking thrilled.

So, to piss her off further, I decided to make a business call before she arrived. And to make things dramatic, I had the back of my chair facing her.

Call me a narcissistic, theatrical ass, but I didn't give a shit.

It wasn't long before my office doors burst open, filling my room with exasperation and fragrant vanilla.

Of course, she didn't knock. She's learnt not to since we started dating. If I was busy, Iris would let her know, but technically, I wasn't.

I was expecting her, and that only put a smirk on my face.

I heard her shuffle as she struggled with removing her coat — she always did. My girl didn't have a problem with the cold, but she hated layers.

"Seriously, Harry? You just had to get Archie to get me. I'm not even properly dressed. I just threw on some leggings and a sweatshirt. He told me you needed me for some urgent meeti—" Serenity's frustrated voice echoed loudly.

However, to keep her quiet, I raised my finger to silence her as I finished my call.

"Yes. Send all the information to my PA, and I'll take a look at it tomorrow," I spoke into the phone, keeping things vague and simple. "Thank you."

Turning around in my chair, I looked up at her, and all of her muttering random words and mumbling stopped — she shut up.

It was actually quite nice sometimes.

Okay. Now, that made me an arrogant son of a bitch, but it's not like she didn't already know.

Standing up, I stretched my back and cracked my knuckles before I made my way towards her. My suit jacket was hung on the rack, and I could see her eyes flickering from it and back to me. Her mouth was agape, and she was in shock. I was busy taking in her beauty, though.

My baby looked like an absolute wreck — but a beautiful one, at that. Her hair was thrown up into a messy bun. It seemed that she got herself together during the car ride over here, but only so that she wouldn't look like crazy in front of strangers. I've seen Essie at her ultimate worst — hair into a tangled mess, makeup smudged all over her face, exhausted and drained from whatever might be, and even though she thought she was ugly, she was still beautiful.

"You-You're — That's —" she struggled with her words, then she suddenly blurted out, "Harry, what the fuck?"

Okay, that, I was not expecting — she cursed.

Shit.

She didn't like it. I wasn't prepared for her to take this approach. My stance and demeanour faltered slightly at her expression. What do I do?

"Fuck," I mumbled. "Do you, um — you don't like it? I thought that a change would be ni—"

She walked towards me, placing her finger against my lips.

"Shut up, Tiger. May I say just how amazingly sexy you look?" Essie said, lightly pulling at my tie.

And that, I was also not expecting.

She said what now?

My brows furrowed. "Sexy?"

"Oh, yes. Dashingly sexy. Those glasses, too. Just damn," she said, biting her bottom lip. "I want a cup of that British tea."

"So, you like?" I asked, just to confirm.

"I love." She grinned.

"Well, in that case, c'mere, sugarplum. I need my taste of sweet sugar today. Might need to get high on it," I said with a smirk.

"High on it?" Her brow was raised, waiting for me to correct myself — and I did.

"My mistake, petal. High on you."

Grinning, I pulled her in for a kiss. She wrapped her arms around my waist, then slowly up to the nape of my neck, whilst mine settled on her hips. I kept her close, refusing to let her go. And thankfully, for her lack of lipstick, I could make this lip-lock as heavy as I wanted.

She did taste sweet, and when I asked, she replied saying that she made Archie stop by a smoothie place to have something for breakfast. Of course, he couldn't say no to her — even though I told him to come straight to the company. She was outstanding in convincing people. I think it was her sweet nature, but I also knew that she could be very frustrated without food in her system. I couldn't blame her.

So her little outburst earlier was slightly toned down than what I predicted.

As for my darling girl who was in my arms, I wasn't quite ready to have her in my office, but we had our fun just through kissing. We may or may not have teased each other, and I just couldn't wait to go home tonight.

Lacking with my responsibilities, I relocated us to sit on my chair, situating her comfortably on my lap. She kept tugging at my tie, attempting to remove it, and after many times, I had to hold her wrists captive in my hold for her to stop.

I wasn't doing anything else but just enjoying her company and chatting about random things. She asked how my day was going, and there wasn't too much to tell. I did tell her how I enjoyed falling asleep to her snoring — which resulted in her shoving my chest.

"Have I told you how beautiful you look today?" I said, softly grazing my finger along her cheek.

She snorted a laugh, mumbling 'beautiful, yeah right,' then shook her head, responding, "But no. You didn't."

"Really?" I furrowed my brows.

"Yeah."

So instead of saying something that she anticipated, I bit the corner of my lips. "Alright then."

"So?"

"So, what?"

"I'm waiting."

"For what?" I grinned, and she raised a brow, silently stating the obvious. "Oh, for your compliment?"

"No, I'm waiting for the next astronaut to step foot on the moon," she sarcastically spoke with a dry laugh.

"Sorry. You might not get one today," I teased, a grin still tugged on my lips.

"Then forget me giving you anymore kisses today." She narrowed her eyes and started to get up from my lap, but I was quick to grab her arms, keeping her in place.

Fuck. She was good.

"Not so fast, darling."

"Don't darling me."

"You look so fucking beautiful today..." I whispered. "...as you do every day."

Leaning forward, I placed a soft kiss on her bottom lip, then her top, before settling them fully. I repeated the movements until she got restless, impatient and wanting more from me, but I refused to give in.

Yes. It turned out that I was a fucking tease — and I had a lot of fun with it.

"You're mean," she said with a pout.

"Never said I wasn't, love." I smiled.

"You never said you were either."

"Touché," I agreed, and she grinned. "You want breakfast or anything to eat?"

"Shouldn't be a question, H. You know, you practically brought me here captive, food-less and all. And we both know that smoothie doesn't count. So, it's just common courtesy," she said simply with a shrug, and I laughed.

"Obviously, my mistake," I teased, and she gave me a peck on the cheek.

Remaining on my lap, I reached over her to grab the phone, told my PA to hold all my calls, and asked her to get some food from the place I usually order from. I heard her snicker over the line, and Essie commented, "Oh, hush, Iris. Nothing happened."

I mean, I wouldn't say nothing because of the intense kiss we shared — or that I planned on pinning her to my office door later. I had to recreate the first time I kissed her in here, but as my enhanced me. But sure, I guess whatever Serenity wants to define it as worked fine with me.

♬ ✥*

Every moment with Essie felt like a date, even though it wasn't formal. We spent the last hour enjoying our time together, eating and chatting about our day. Of course, there wasn't much to tell because it was work for me and interrupted sleep for her.

She did tell me that while she was putting on her boots at home, she noticed that Luna was curled up on her bed, cuddling Emmy. Serenity started to feel cuddle-buddy-less because her cat got snuggles from a stuffed animal, while she had no one. So I said that I'd make it up to her tonight by holding her as long as she wanted.

Of course, that was so as long as she played another movie I haven't seen before. Our evenings were filled with her wanting to fill me in on everything I was deprived of growing up, so she alternated between normal and animated films. After watching Finding Nemo, which made Serenity cry at a certain point, she caught me tearing up as well. It wasn't the highlight of my night because she teased me about it, but I had my own way of getting back at her.

I never felt so content in my relationship as I do at this moment. Serenity's made me feel so good, not just physically but emotionally. It wasn't that she was doing it for the sake of helping my heart heal because there was something more in the mix of it; Essie was going the extra mile.

And I learned how selfless she was through it all.

Fuck, she was so perfect — and perfect for me.

Those beautiful sapphires of hers sparkled in the brightest of days and the darkest of nights. They had mystery, wonder, excitement, happiness, and something else. She was an effervescent bubble of joy, and there was no doubt I enjoyed being around her. Her skin smooth as silk and tastes so delectably sweet. And the way her laugh always ended with a little giggle, that was my addicting melody that escaped her pretty petal lips — ones that I loved placing kisses on.

Unfortunately, my thoughts were broken from the ringing of my work phone echoing through the room. I let out a groan with a deep sigh.

"It's okay. Go answer it," Essie encourage with a small smile.

"I told Iris to hold my calls before you came in," I replied, frustrated.

"Well, if she let it go through, then it has to be important. Go on," she spoke, gesturing me to go check the phone.

Getting up, I moved around the desk to sit in my chair and answered the call.

"Wha—hello," I answered, knowing Essie was watching me. I wasn't particularly pleased, but I was nice-ish. "Yes?"

"I'm sorry, Mr Styles, but there was something released to another company. A report dealing with someone you —"

And I knew exactly what he was talking about — shit.

"Why the fuck would that report be sent there? It's under my name, not Urban Corp."

"It—it was an accident. It was found between some papers, and it was sent —" his nerves were evident as he tried to continue, but interrupting him was the only thing I could do.

"Get it back before —"

"I believe it's too late," he replied.

"If anything like that happens again, you and everyone else who dealt with it is fired. Understood?"

"Yes, My Styles." That was the last thing he spoke before I hung up.

"Fuck this shit," I muttered, slamming my fist against my desk. "So fucked."

"Hey, it's okay. Everything can be fixed. Right?" Serenity spoke calmly, leaning over to take my hand in hers. "I mean, I don't know what's going on, but I'm sure it can be."

"Not exactly, just some unfortunate news. I hate when shit like this happens when you're here. This was why I told Iris to hold my fucking ca— Ir—"

And before I could say anything else, she interrupted me.

"Getting mad at her won't do any good," Serenity spoke just as a text came in.

Glancing at the screen, I let out a short, dry laugh. "She just sent me a message apologising for letting it go through. Now she can't even do shit."

Essie frowned. "Now you're just being mean."

"Yeah, well, if you —"

"I'd watch your words very carefully, Harry," she warned, and my eyes widened, letting out a deep sigh.

Keeping hold of her hand, I tugged her so that she'd make her way back to sit on my lap. I placed a soft kiss on her cheek as her fingers fumbled through my hair. "Fuck. I'm sorry. I'm just so stressed. I shouldn't take it out on you."

"You know what you need?"

"More competent employees?" I suggested with a sarcastic grin.

"Funny, but no," she said, letting out a small laugh. "You need a vacation."

"Not a fucking chance," I immediately spoke, "I have so much shit to do and —"

"Not my problem, and not yours either — or at least, for a few days. Come on. It'll be fun. What do you say?"

"I don't know, petal. I really have so much to do."

"Please," she said, pouting her lip. "It'll be nice to go on a trip together. Have you ever taken a day off from work?"

"Tuck that lip back in, darling" I warned lightly, tapping it with my finger. "And once with Madison. It wasn't really a vacation, though. It was some business event in Miami. She spent most of her time shopping and at the beach, while I was stuck at the conference. It was useless."

"Yeah, baby, that doesn't count."

She was right.

I shut my eyes tight and pinched the bridge of my nose, taking a heavy breath. "I can't believe I'm agreeing to this. Fuck, fine. Where do you want to go?"

The happiest, heartwarming smile grew on her face. "How's about Banff? The weather's perfect right about now. Plus, I heard there's a nice storm in a week, that means snow, so the slopes should be open."

"You mean freezing, Essie. It's the end of September.

"It won't be that cold. Just some snow and decent temperatures."

"Mountains are not my thing."

"What is your thing, Tiger?"

"Places where it's warm and have a beach."

"That would require air travel."

"And?"

She shook her head. "I've been on a plane once and never again."

"Okay, that's alright. We don't have to." I smiled softly. "What do you like?"

"Road trips." She grinned.

I let out a deep sigh. "So you want to go to Banff? To ski?"

"Well, snowboard, but yes." She nodded.

"Alright. Banff it is."

"Thank you. Trust me, you'll have fun," her tone was enthusiastic and hopeful as she kissed me on the cheek.

"Do you even know to snowboard?"

"Yeah." She nodded. "We used to take family trips during the holiday season when we were little."

"Family trips?" I asked, and she nodded. A little pang hit my heart as I just realised something. "I've, um — I've never done that before."

I noticed Serenity bite her bottom lip, thoughts running around in her head. There was no doubt that an idea was brewing in her mind, and I was nervous about finding out what it was.

"Um, well, we could all go if you'd like." Her voice was soft as she spoke, and I tried to ignore the deep pounding of my heart. "The 'rents and I were talking about it. Milo has some vacation days, and Charlie will be home next weekend, the same time as the snowfall. So maybe instead, you can come with us?"

Hold on a second. What?

Before I could say anything else, she continued with hesitation, "Well, technically, they'll come with us since we'd be picking the dates. What do you say?"

The way her eyes were peering into my own, so intimidating yet soft. The convincing nature she possessed was something that I struggled to get over. But what I adored about her was that even when she wanted something, and she didn't get it from me, she wasn't upset or bothered. She let me have the control and decisions that I wanted. I could tell that it was just a suggestion, but it made me nervous.

I just hated to make her unhappy. I never liked seeing Serenity cry over anything. The way her lips quivered and the deep hue of her sapphire gems faded immensely, sadness only taking over. It was something that I planned on never being the reason for tears of sorrow again. Fuck, seeing them once was one thing, but seeing them again, would cause me more pain than before.

And I had a feeling I was going to add some of those emotions into her at this moment.

"I can't intrude on a family trip, Serenity. I'm sorry."

That was when I forced to welcome her dim blue eyes, breaking her heart.

"But, Harry, you are my family," I spoke softly.

Then suddenly, her words confused me. I could still hear the dejection in her tone, but I had to push past it.

"How? We're just dating." My reply was truthful. We were dating, and that didn't qualify for 'family.'

A breath of disbelief escaped her lips, and she sucked them in before speaking, "Just dating? We're more than that. We really like each other, and that's more than enough for being part of my life. You mean a lot to me, Harry. I want to spend a trip with you, and with other people I love. You don't have to be blood to be family."

"But, baby, if you don't want to, we can just do the trip together. That's fine," she whispered in disappointment. I know that she wasn't trying to guilt-trip me into anything but only trying to make me understand that I was much more to her.

I tried to let her words sink in, but they wouldn't. I couldn't find it in me to truly believe them. Family was blood — that's it.

"You can't be away from your family, especially if you already talked about this trip with them, Essie. I won't let you do that," I said firmly, and she sighed. There was something I hated, though, and I couldn't stop myself before the words came out of my mouth in a mere whisper, "I just — what if I'm not welcome?"

"Harry Tiger Styles, I — lo — my parents love you, as do my brothers. You are always welcome."

"Always?"

"Always."

My thoughts were in circles, and I couldn't believe that I was actually debating this. "Can you ask them anyway? Please. It'll make me feel a bit more comfortable that way."

"I already know they'll say yes, but I'll ask them for you."

"Thank you," I spoke, and she gave me a kiss on the cheek before getting up. "Baby, what are you doing?"

She walked over to her jacket, pulled her phone out of the pocket, and then waved it towards me. "To ask my parents, where do you think?"

"Now?" I asked. "I thought it was going to be in a few days, let what I said simmer a bit."

"You're cute," she said with a smile.

I frowned. "I'm not cute."

"Pretty, I don't care what you say. You're cute, that's it. Done deal. Lids seals. Zippers zipped, and all that," she said with a grin.

"Bloody hell."

"Hi, mom!" Essie spoke into the receiver enthusiastically.

Shit. I thought she was going to text her parents — apparently, not.

"Oh, that? I was just telling him how cute he is." Essie grinned, looking at me.

"I'm not cute," I mumbled.

"You tell that boy he is adorable," Gennie's voice was suddenly heard.

Fuck. Now I'm adorable?

"Tell him yourself, you're on speaker now," Serenity spoke, taking a seat on one of the guest chairs and placed her device atop my desk.

"Harry, you listen to me. You're adorable and very handsome. Always keep that in mind. Got it? Good. If you disagree, well, you can't. It's my way or the highway," her voice was firm and potent.

And there was that stubborn Hayes women power.

"Yes, ma'am," I replied.

Her words were kind and honest, though. Things that a mother should say to their child. I wished I had that.

"Wonderful." I could just imagine the satisfied grin on her face right now. "Now, sweetheart, I know you didn't call to tell me that. What's up?"

"I was talking with Harry about a trip we want to take together, and I brought up our yearly mountain vacay. So, next week, what do you say we head up to Banff?"

"Actually, your dad and I brought it up yesterday. I was thinking the same thing," she spoke softly, then she barely paused. "Harry, sweet pea, why don't you join us? It'll be fun for all of us to go together."

She invited me.

What the fuck?

Serenity didn't even have to ask.

Someone else wanted me.

When I looked up at Essie, she was gazing at me with the most adoring expression. She mouthed, 'I told you so.'

Clearing my throat, I replied, "Are you sure, Gennie? I'd hate to impose."

And that made her mum give a dry laugh. "Rennie, remind me to smack him when I see him. Harry, you're always welcome with us. Except for my bedroom, that's for the husband and me only."

"Mom, ew, gross!" Essie hid her face, and I chuckled.

"What? I'm just stating the facts," she said, laughing. "So, what do you say?"

"I'd love to join."

"Marvellous. I'll make the reservations," Gennie replied in a faux English accent.

"Never talk like that, mom. You can't do an English accent."

"Baby, she did it better than you," I said, and heard Gennie cackle through the speakers.

"Sweet girl, he just roasted you."

"Mom, you're supposed to be on my side," Essie whined.

"Only on some occasions. Right now, I love Harry," she stated.

Fuck.

I've never heard anyone say that to me in such a kind manner before. Another thing Gennie said that was so truthful and pure.

Maybe one day, I could hear it from someone else sitting so close to me.

Just maybe.

"Tough, love, my dear offspring," her mum replied with a tone that was ultimately teasing, and displeased look on Essie's face was priceless.

It wasn't much longer after that when we politely ended the conversation, stating that we'd finalise the details in another day or so. She just had to check with Milo and Charlie about the dates, and apparently, if they weren't free, they were going to go anyway. It was a joke that they made, and the family went by it. I wasn't sure how it was considered amusing because it would be something I'd find unwelcome by, but it worked for them.

Seeing how Serenity interacted with her family made me crave for something like that. To be able to have a relationship with her parents and siblings that was warm and loving. She mentioned that I was part of her family, and I supposed that this was a possible dip in that pool of hers.

Standing up, I walked over to Essie, pulling her up so that I could kiss away her frown lines.

"My mom likes you better,"

"I seem to have that effect on people," I teased.

"Don't get cocky, Harry," she replied, biting her lip when I raised a brow.

"Really, darling? It's not what you said a couple nights ago."

She narrowed her pretty eyes at me. "Shut up."

"Make me."

"You know, you're good with being able to get those kisses out of me."

"You'd be lying if you ever say you don't enjoy them."

"I'd never lie, Tiger." She grinned. "Plus, it builds my ego knowing how good I am and how you always come back for more."

"Like you said, I'm a tiger that's always hungry for them." I smirked.

"Confidence looks beautiful on you, pretty," she suddenly spoke.

"I like it a lot," I admitted, "I might never go back again. If I do, it'll be my choice."

"That's my favourite man." A smile tugged at her petal lips.

Wrapping her arms around my waist, she looked up in my eyes with a kind smile. "How do you really feel about the trip? If I pushed you to that decision, I'm sorry. If you really don't want to, we don't have to, baby."

"You didn't push me. I guess I'm just a it confused, but I'm starting to warm up to the idea. I mean, I already said yes, but it's just surreal," I spoke quietly, "What if I fuck up? I mean, they like me now, but time tends to ruin everything for me."

"Well, you have confidence in yourself now, Harry, and that's very important. Don't think about the bad things that could happen. Think about the great ones. You and I make memories every day, and this trip will only add to it. Do you trust me?"

"Always."

"Then you'll be fine. I know you can do this."

Letting out a deep breath, I said, "I can do this."

"Damn fucking straight," she spoke with a grin, and I let out a loud laugh. Shaking my head, I narrowed my eyes at her with a smile, and she held her expression as I mouthed, 'tease.'

Then I spoke aloud, "I adore you."

Before replying, she leaned forward to kiss me, mumbling against them, "I adore you more."

That wasn't possible.

I just hoped that time would be in my favour, and I really wouldn't fuck it up.

...

A/N:

Confident (and little shit) Harry is HERE TO STAY.
...for the most part, that is.

But I mean....how good does he look? GLASSES AND COLOUR PLEASE.

Also, did you think Serenity pushed him to his decision or did he make it himself?

The trip is next...it's gonna be good. And oh, there will be some things to take note about it. Time will tell what they'll be.

Besides that what'd you dig about the chapter? Me and my curious self, y'know me.

Kissy, stay golden, and TPWK my beautiful tulips 🌷

S x