If You Only Knew

Chapter 17

"Mum?!" I shout as Louis and I step through the front door, the familiar warmth of home wrapping around me like a blanket. The scent of cinnamon and freshly brewed coffee lingers in the air, a reminder of the coziness that fills this place.

"Upstairs, love!" Mum calls back, her voice soft and welcoming, as always.

We make our way up the stairs, the creak of the old wood beneath our feet adding to the comfort of the moment. When we reach the landing, Louis's hand finds mine, his fingers curling around mine in a simple gesture that makes my heart flutter. The connection between us feels electric, even in the most mundane moments, like the world has shifted into something just a little bit better because he's here with me.

We walk into Mum's room together, the soft glow of the lamp on her bedside table casting a warm light across her room. The space is filled with the quiet hum of familiarity—her clothes hanging neatly, her books stacked in the corner, and the soft, inviting smell of her lavender-scented candles.

"Hi, Anne!" Louis greets her cheerfully, his voice light and filled with affection as he leans against the doorframe, his presence bringing a sense of ease to the room.

"Hi, boys!" Mum's face lights up with a smile when she sees us. She looks up from where she's sorting through some papers on her desk. "Are you excited for Christmas break?"

"Yep! Lou and I are kicking it off with a date night tonight!" I say, my voice tinged with excitement, not just for the break, but for the simple joy of spending the evening with Louis.

"Awe, that is lovely. What are you boys doing for this date?" Mum asks, her tone warm and curious. She's always been supportive of our relationship, and there's something about her genuine interest that makes me feel safe.

"Hazza here won't tell me," Louis pouts, sticking his lower lip out in an exaggerated, playful way.

"It's my turn to surprise you, Lou," I giggle, nudging him lightly. His eyes meet mine, full of that tender affection that always sends a flutter through my chest.

"The two of you are so cute," Mum says, her smile softening. "Any other plans for the break?"

I hesitate for a moment, sharing a look with Louis before I speak. "Well, that's what we wanted to talk to you about..." My voice falters a little, but Louis squeezes my hand, his presence steadying me. "I was wondering if... umm... maybe... we could have a... umm... New Year's Eve party at our house this year?"

Mum raises an eyebrow, a slight edge of concern creeping into her expression. "I don't know, Harry..."

"Pleeease, Mum!" I whine, giving her my best puppy dog eyes. I pout my lips out extra far, feeling the familiar pull of vulnerability that I know gets to her every time.

"No, not the puppy eyes." Mum groans, though I can see the hint of a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Ugh, fine! But! Not too many people, and I mean that, mister."

"Yes! Thank you, Mum! I love you so much!!" I say, nearly throwing myself at her in my excitement, but she just laughs, shaking her head.

"I love you too. Louis, please look after my boy at this party," Mum says, her voice firm but filled with affection, as though she's entrusting me into Louis's hands.

"I always do," Louis smiles, his voice calm and reassuring. It's in moments like this, with the weight of responsibility settled on his shoulders, that I realize just how much he cares for me. His words are simple, but they're full of meaning—of commitment and care.

"You better learn to combat those puppy eyes, Louis, or you're in for many lost battles with this one," Mum laughs, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"Trust me, I know," Louis grins, giving me a sidelong glance. "This boy has used those eyes on me many times. That and those damn dimples. It's not fair; he's just too cute." Louis coos, his voice soft and affectionate, and I feel my cheeks flush in embarrassment at the attention.