One Plus One

Chapter Twelve

Marlie had been leant against me for the entire film. Her head was leaning on my shoulder but it was only when I glanced down to her when the film had ended that I noticed she had fallen asleep. Now I could see the length of her dark eyelashes fanning over her cheeks. Marlie's chest rose and fell slowly, I could barely hear her breath. I was careful as I gently took hold of her and lay her down properly on the duvet, tugging the blankets up over her. She was breathtakingly beautiful, even in sleep.

She stirred slightly at the loss of warmth next to her. I was quick to remove my clothes and shuffle back in beside her. I got as close as possible, her body relaxed again, sensing my presence. I knew I was the only guy she'd ever trusted. Even as a friend. I don't think any girl had ever trusted me, not with my reputation. The warming thought settled me allowing me to drift off to the sound of Marlie's breathing.

*****

MARLIE'S POV

The vibrating of my phone woke me up. I felt around for it beside me, not wanting to open my eyes. I guessed where the button was to answer it and then lifted the phone to my ear and mumbled a quiet hello.

"Marlie? I'm outside yours but you're not answering." said Lily's voice.

"I'm not at mine."

"Where are you? I thought we were going out today."

"We are but I didn't think that was until later."

"Well, I can't go later, I've been called in for extra rehearsal."

"Give me an hour and I'll meet you at yours, ok?"

"Fine. Be quick."

Once I put the phone down, I rolled over, hoping to fall back asleep. When I got comfy, I felt a warmth drape over my waist, gently pulling me in. I complied, nestling my head into Harry's chest. I felt him kiss the top of my head as the pair of us exhaled deeply, having just woken up.

"Morning, angel." his raspy morning voice sounded.

"Good morning."

I connected my gaze with his before smiling at the heat rising in my cheeks.

"I have to go soon. I'm going out with Lily."

Harry looked disappointed. In all honesty, so was I. I enjoyed spending time with him. It was the only time I'd really opened up. I don't know what it was about Harry that made me want to, but he seemed to be able to unlock the chest of secrets I held inside of me.

When Harry remained silent I tried to wiggle free of his grasp and sit up, but he wouldn't let me. I tried again but it was another unsuccessful attempt.

"Harry." I giggled.

"You're keeping me warm, stay here."

"Oh is that all I am? A blanket?" I teased.

He smirked as he let me go. I sat up and a sudden thought crossed my mind.

"I was gonna ask if you had any bread for toast but maybe I should leave it alone. I wouldn't want to hurt your Hovis that you love so much."

"What did you just say?"

"You know, I just wouldn't want you to get upset if I took your bread."

Harry then realised what I was talking about, groaning in embarrassment.

"Brody, that little shit."

"Oh he told me he had quite a few stories about you."

"Did he? What else did he tell you?"

I teasingly smiled at him shrugging. He looked at me expectantly, but I rose from the duvet and walked towards the door without saying anything. I heard the duvet rustle behind me. Two strong arms then wrapped around my waist, tugging me backwards. I squealed as Harry began to tickle me, hoping to tickle any withheld information out of me. The tickling died down, instead, Harry tightened his grip around my waist, pressing the warmth of his chest against my back. I felt his plump lips brush my ear before her spoke.

"Tell me."

"It's for me to know and you to find out."

*****

"So where are you two going?" Harry asked from outside his bedroom door.

"Why? Are you gonna follow me?" I joked.

"No, I was just wondering what time you'd be back."

"Can I ask why?"

"I have somewhere for us to go."

I slid open Harry's bedroom door to find him leaning against the wall, hands in his pockets. Harry's eyes travelled the length of my body, the dimpled smile on his face growing with every feature he absorbed.

"I don't think I can tonight."

Harry's gaze froze on mine. My mouth went dry.

"It's not that I don't want to, but I just can't."

My words didn't seem to lend any comfort. Harry wasn't getting his own way like I'd been letting him, even after I'd put up a fight.

"Some other time then. I'll text you."

Harry managed to break a smile but I didn't feel any better about the situation. I lifted my bag onto my shoulder and padded my way towards the front door. My hand reached for the handle and as I pushed it down, I heard Harry's voice again.

"See you soon."

It seemed more of a question than a statement. I turned to see his eyes glinting at me. I gave him my small nod with a smile.

"See you soon, Harry."

As I descended the front steps I couldn't figure out what was going on in my head. There were so many thoughts swirling around that I couldn't make sense of them. Thoughts of Jasmine forced their way forward. I couldn't believe what Harry had told me the night before. The guy she was with now was that same guy that beat Harry up all those years ago. Now I knew why Jaz didn't want me to get close to Harry. Not only was she scared the truth would come out, she was was scared that the two guys would come into contact again. The thought of what could happen if they did chilled me. Harry was fit and could probably pack a punch, but he'd still be no match for Jamie. Jamie had only gotten stronger. I never wanted to get tangled in any kind of mess. But it was too late. I was already too involved with Harry to be free of it.