Worthwhile: The Sequel (A Jonah Marais Fanfiction)

Chapter 14

"She only had eyes for him... And it was going to stay that way."

It had been three weeks since the Harry Styles had coffee with Winter Addington. Every day since then, he was finding excuses to see her. Like one day he just came over because he thought the sky was falling and didn't want to be alone. He wouldn't come empty-handed. There was always something he brought for the brunette.

Sometimes, they would be flowers. Other times, chocolates. Once, he almost bought out the record store while searching the right record for her. In this one week, he had learnt a lot about Winter. He knew how she wasn't into materialistic things. He learnt how small things made her happy. He learnt how easy it was to make her happy.

He also knew that she was broken. 

Nevertheless, he was going to help her as long as he can. So, today, he was going to muster up the courage to ask her out. 

He had invited her over to his house, suggesting it to be a simple get-to-know-your-neighbour dinner. He vividly remembered how Winter had laughed at his suggestion. It did take quite a lot of convincing. 

Apparently, the grey-eyed beauty had some plans for the weekend which included checking on Esther, who she considered as a younger sister, recording her new album, and planning a birthday party 

Harry was surprised when she revealed that she would be returning to the industry soon. Most of the people, including himself, had assumed that 'Made To Love' would her last gig, considering the amount of scrutiny and hardships she had to go through. However, he was glad that nothing had affected her thrive to inspire and connect people. 

As soon as he put the chicken in the oven, his doorbell rang. His eyes twinkled. He took off his apron and checked his face in the mirror, before rushing to the door. He opened the door and the air in his lungs was almost knocked out.

She was standing right there with a huge smile on her face. It was the kind of smile that radiated warmth and gentleness with every flash. She was carrying a container full of homemade brownies. Her brown hair was tied loosely into a braid. The spaghetti-strapped sundress accentuated her  curves perfectly, making her look more stunning than she already was. Her steel-rimmed spectacles settled lowly at the bridge of her nose, bringing out the clarity in her stormy eyes. 

"May I come in?" Winter asked as she felt awkward under his gaze. 

Harry snapped out of the daze and rubbed the back of his neck. He moved to the side and gestured to come inside. Shutting the door after her, he properly greeted her, "Welcome to my humble abode."

Winter's eyes darted across the room as she walked. The grey orbs took in every single detail. The minimalistic furniture and the white walls were a direct reflection of Harry's personality. However, a majestic white grand piano in the next room caught her eye.

The brunette made herself comfortable on the couch while Harry went off to fetch a glass of water for her. He knew well that she didn't drink, so champagne or wine was out of question. Winter placed the container with the brownies on the coffee table in the middle of the room. Harry sat down beside her.

Smiling warmly at her, he said, "I saw the show you recommended."

Her eyes widened, "You did?!"

"Yes. Already on season two." 

"You're fast."

"How's the album coming along?"

"Pretty good. I have a recording session with Max Martin in the next two days. I should be able to wrap up the writing and recording for the album by next month. After that, I have the album shoot and the music video shoot." 

Harry chuckled, "You've got a long way to go."

"I know! I'm exhausted by thinking about it!" Winter put dramatically.

The oven chimed and Harry smiled, "Looks like the food is ready."

He stood up and bowed, offering Winter his hand, "Sweet lady, will you be kind enough to accompany for dinner?"

Winter let out a hearty laugh. This was her first real laugh since that unfortunate laugh. She stood up, beaming and placed her hand in his. Doing her best British accent, she grinned, "It'd be my pleasure, kind Sir." 

He led her to the table and pulled a chair out for her. That small gesture reminded her of times that didn't feel real anymore.

It all seemed like a distant dream. 

The brunette turned on her phone and stared at it for too long. Unconsciously, her fingers grazed the tattoo on the side of her wrist.

Harry didn't notice that. He didn't notice how her the storm in her eyes raged when she looked at him; even if it was a mere picture or a mention. He didn't know that her mind was still playing memories that she shouldn't visit.

As soon as Winter took her first bite, her eyes widened, "Bless the angels! This is the best food I've ever tasted! I need to know how you were able to cook this up?!"

Harry gave her a goofy grin, "It's a secret."

He received a cute pout in response. 

"I'll never be able to cook anything as tasty as this!"

He raised an eyebrow at her, "You, Winter, are by far, the best cook I have had the fortune of meeting!" 

"You're just saying it to compensate for not spilling the beans about your cooking!" Winter countered.

They spent the rest of the dinner laughing and chatting about their in the music industry. Winter steered clear of the One Direction hiatus topic and Harry avoided talking about her break. After desert, Winter helped him clean up the kitchen. She insisted that she help him out. Harry tried very hard to forbade her from doing anything but then she used her I-will-never-come-to-your-house card.

After having a great night, it was time for Winter to go. Harry accompanied her to the front door.

"I had a great time." Winter confessed stepping out.

Harry smiled at her, glad that she enjoyed herself. She beamed at him. It made him realize that this was the moment. He had to seize it or he wouldn't get the opportunity again. He cleared his throat and let out a deep breath, "Winter, I wanted to ask you something."

The brunette furrowed her eyebrows, puzzled.

"Would you like to go on a date with me?"

Time froze around her. Her lips parted and inhaled sharply. Her heart raced. She didn't expect him to ask her out. Hell! She never thought that he was even into her. She knew she was really boring. 

Harry panicked. He reached out to hold her, "Winter?"

She took a step backwards, "I-I-I'm sorry, Harry! I can't do this!"

And she sprinted off.

Because in that moment she knew...

She knew she couldn't love anyone else.