Here comes the sun - Larry

CHAPTER 8

"Harry," I say, keeping my eyes on the road. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine."

"I don't think so."

"It's none of your business."

"Right, sorry."

I never actually mean to cross the line with him, but I've done it a few times now. I've never been a curious person, not about people I don't know, but I feel different when it comes to Harry. I don't know what it is exactly, nor what it means, but something about him interests me. It bothers me that he won't talk to me, that he won't let me in, which is silly because why would he?

He takes a breath. "Look, I just—"

"Harry, it's okay."

"I can tell you want to know."

"I'm just curious," I admit. "Doesn't mean you owe me an explanation."

"I have a test tomorrow."

"I know. I was gonna have you study for it."

"I need to pass, Louis."

"I know."

"I'm worried."

I look at him, just for a moment. "I don't think you need to be. I don't wanna sound like a teacher or anything, but I think you've got some proper potential."

He snorts. "If you don't wanna sound like a teacher, then don't say shit like that."

"I'm just saying I'm seeing progress. I know we've only done this a few times, but you're a quick learner. And it's not like you're stupid, Harry, you've just not been paying attention. And I'll prepare you for the test the best I can. Even if it takes all night."

"It might so don't say that."

"I assume your bed is big enough for two?"

"Doesn't mean it's made for it."

"I'll sleep over if you need me to—unless your dad doesn't approve, that is."

I hadn't considered it beforehand, that it would take longer today, but I should've known—it always takes longer to study for a test. I do have plans with Emily, but I will stay with Harry if he needs me to. I know it won't get me laid, but I feel obligated to help him.

"I don't think he cares."

"I just figured he might. I've never been allowed to have girls over, not until Emily."

"And why is she different?"

"At first she wasn't, but then I told my dad we were already having sex. It wasn't really an issue for him, not as long as we were being safe."

Emily's parents feel a little different, presumably because she's the one who can get pregnant if something goes wrong. But they also know we'll find a way to do it anyway, so they'd rather have us in the room next to theirs. It makes us a bit more hesitant, which is probably the whole reason for why they want us at home—not that we haven't taken the chance before, because we certainly have.

Harry hums in response. "It's never really been up for discussion at home. I don't have sex very often, but when I do it's nearly always in someone's dorm-room. And I don't think he's gonna care when I can't get someone pregnant."

"Does he mind that you're gay?"

"No, but I also told them when I was fourteen, so he's had time to adjust. It's not his favourite thing in the world, but I think he's got more to worry about than who I'm kissing."