Keep Driving [h.s]

forty-five

Ella

Watching my mum get married was an unbelievable experience. She looked stunning in her white dress, holding a bouquet of pink flowers. Noah walked her down the aisle where I stood on one side along with Soleil and Chloe and Harry and Zayn on the other side, behind Johnny.

I blamed my tears on the hormones afterwards but I was crying a lot. So much I had to fix my makeup in the bathroom right after the ceremony.

Seeing my mum be so happy in general is something that makes me happy too but knowing that the reason behind her happiness is Johnny, her husband is another level of happiness.

I was so worried that things wouldn't end well between them but honestly, mum and Johnny are two lost souls who found each other after decades. Much like myself and Harry.

After the ceremony, came the reception, which is where we are currently. Everyone is seated at the table. There aren't many people at the wedding, just close family. Johnny invited his sister who flew here all the way from Norway. Maddy is lovely.

I sit next to Harry, Soleil between us in her high chair playing with the spoon.

Harry clears his throat, pushing back with his chair to stand up. Everyone lifts their gaze and stops the conversation they were having, focusing on him.

"I'd like to say a few words," he says, looking around to see if anyone is objecting. When their gazes remain on him, he goes on.

"First of all, congratulations to Johnny and Jane. I'm delighted to be able to be a part of this special moment." I already have to fight my tears as I listen to him. These hormones are surely changing from one day to the other.

"I haven't had the pleasure of knowing Jane for a very long time but better late than never, they say." He flashes my mum a small smile and she smiles back at him. Her hand is on the table, and Johnny's is on top of it.

"On the other hand, I grew up with Johnny. He's been there for me ever since his late partner, Nick took me in." I can see his thumb toying with his rings as he says his speech.

"Back then, I never thought I'd have a family. But Johnny and Nick were my family. They raised me to be the man I am today, and I'm forever grateful for that."

"I'm very lucky to have a family today that keeps growing. Thank you Johnny for being a father figure in my life and helping me through everything, and thank you, Jane, for such a warm welcome into your family."

With that, Harry raises his glass of red wine. "To Jane and Johnny."

I raise my glass of water along with everyone and repeat Harry's last words before we all take a sip. Johnny pecks mum's lips and I smile brightly at the sight.

This is everything I've ever wanted. A big happy family. And to be able to give a family to Harry, it's such a blessing.

When everyone begins talking again Harry looks down at me, quietly asking for permission. I nod my head biting back a smile.

"I do have something else to share. I guess it's the perfect time to say this since everyone is here," he trails off looking at me again.

"Holy shit, he's proposing to Ellie!" Noah exclaims a bit too loudly, making everyone laugh.

"Noah, language!" Mum tells him off immediately and he's quick to press his lips together with an apologetic look on his face.

"What is it, Styles?" Johnny asks, eyeing Harry and me from his seat. I don't think I've ever seen him in a suit before. He looks so elegant and handsome.