I Carry Your Heart [Harry Styles]

Chapter 19

Present Day-Harry

Spooning some muesli and yoghurt into my mouth, I sit in the corner of the hotel breakfast room and watch the guests and staff rush around, going about their day. I have been left alone while I am here other than the occasional autograph, which is great as I am trying to remain under the radar while in Rye. I would hate the press to get wind of the fact that Rory is my daughter, at least for as long as possible. Specially since we haven't told her yet and she is just getting to know me.

I have had a couple more outings with Rory since we went to the beach, and I feel like we are starting to get comfortable around each other. Picking her up most afternoons has become the best part of my day.

I have also had a few conversations with Cam, nothing much and I still can't get a read on her, but she seems a little less anxious to have me around.

Although things have been looking up, today I have to do what I came to Rye for originally, and that is to clear out my dad's room and sort out his possessions. I am completely dreading it and have had a heavy weight, clawing at my chest since I woke up. I would kill for a drink to settle my nerves but I know that I won't find an answer at the bottom of a bottle. I probably would have continued to avoid facing my dad and his demons, but the nursing home where he was living called again and let me know they need the room.

So, after downing another very strong espresso I grab my keys and sunglasses and make my way out the front door. It's a hot day and mixed with the humid coastal air, I can already feel myself sweating despite wearing a thin white t-shirt and skinny jeans. Climbing into the driver's seat, I pull my long hair up into a bun and slip my glasses on before I start the car.

I carefully follow the GPS, and after a short journey I see a standard metal gate and a large sign saying 'Whitegates Care Home and Independent Living'. I drive into a small parking lot and look at the unassuming brick building in front of me. I began paying my father's bills as soon as I started making money, but my assistant organised the room here at Whitegates as I refused to be involved or have any contact with my father.

Dreading what's coming next, I slowly walk up to the front door, and pushing it open I am immediately met with ugly blue linoleum floors and an overpowering smell of disinfectant. I hate hospitals and this place seems like a fucking hospital.

Taking a deep breath, I stride up to a large central reception desk, where two women in nurses' scrubs are busily talking about a client's medicine.

They turn to me and cheerily, one of them says "Hello sir, how can....oh my god you are Harry Styles".

Smiling I answer "Yes I am".

They both look shocked for a minute, I'm used to this reaction, but their professionalism kicks back in and one of them says "Um..okay...and how can we help you today sir?".

"I have an appointment to meet......." And taking a crumpled piece of paper out of my pocket, I read ".... A Matron Judy Stick?".

"Of course, Mr Styles, let me just let her know you are here. If you would like to take a seat over there, I'm sure she will be with you shortly".

"Thanks" I answer and wonder over to some  uncomfortable looking couches. Fuck I feel on edge here, both because of my history with my dad but also due to how fucking clinical it is.

After a few minutes of mindlessly fiddling with my phone, I am interrupted by a voice "Mr Styles?".

Looking up nervously I am met by a round face, staring down at me kindly.

Standing up fast, I hold my hand out saying "Yes..yes. Hi I am Harry".

Grasping my hand warmly in two of hers she says "Well Harry, Nice to meet you, I'm Judy. Welcome to Whitegates. I'm glad you are here although I obviously wish it was under different circumstances".