Once in a lifetime

Chapter 35 Family

They would all go to Harry's place first, to refresh a bit and Zayn and his parents would go to his flat later. Jetlag hadn't quite hit them yet, so they still had a bit of time together before needing a nap.

"Yes, let's go. I am dying to meet them. They must be amazing people since they raised you." Anne said.

"As amazing as you are, considering you raised Harry. Mom's desperate to meet you too. She has let me know that much since I told her about Haz. She said I was keeping you all for me, specially him."

"Weren't you, though?" Rob teased.

"Wasn't! Oh shit, maybe a bit. But I just found him, yeah? Can't be that bad wanting to keep him for myself a tad longer, innit?"

"Mhm, well I can't argue with that."

"Oh God, this is exciting. So, Yaser and Trisha, right? I don't want to mess their names up and get them to hate me before I even say anything."

"Don't worry, Anne. I'm sure you'll do great."

"Thank you, luv. Harry told me about your gallery. Are you showing anything yours soon? If I might ask."

"Been a while since I had my own stuff there. I prefer to give chance to young artists who might have it tough, like me. Trying to be an artist in New York and succeeding is something that doesn't happen often. I was lucky enough that few critics liked my style, and they gave me the shot. Liam, my best mate, found the venue we have. So, with the money I got for my first collection we got started."

"You are very kind, son. Not many have the same ethics. I'm proud already." Rob added.

"Thank you, Rob. When you've been there I guess that helps to be kinder, yeah? I'm sure Harry can relate too. I know he is an amazing book editor, and he likes to give chances to writers who have been rejected multiple times, don't you babe?" Zayn explained, oblivious of the fact he was speaking to Harry's parents. Meaning, they knew that. Anne smiled fondly at him, and Harry blushed a little.

"Well, I mean, is not big deal, y'know? I, uh, I just think is the decent thing to do. If I can help few people to achieve their dreams, why wouldn't I? Plus, my writers are really good, so they actually help me."

"See babe, not everyone thinks like that. You're wonderful." Zayn said, leaning for a kiss.

"So are you, love. You do the same in your own way."

"Aww, aren't you too cute or what? No wonder why they are so smitten, they are two peas in the same pod. Brother-in-law, don't you happen to have a twin around that you could introduce me to?"

"I don't, but if I did, he'd be all yours." Zayn grinned.

"Can I have you, then?" Gemma teased, looking at Harry.

"No. Geroff, big sis. He's mine, I saw him first." Harry said, moving Zayn away from Gemma.

"Babe..." Zayn breathed between his giggles.

"Fooking big sis wanting to steal my man. I ain't having it, Z. She should find herself one. Never gonna be like mine, but she can try. Maybe Shawn has a friend..."

"Maybe yeah." Zayn humoured.

"So cute." Anne whispered loud enough for them to hear. They all laughed again and when they arrived at the restaurant the Maliks were at, Zayn went in for them. Their families were tired, so he wanted to get them home as soon as possible. When they came out, Trisha had her arm locked into his, and Yaser and an arm on his shoulders. They were certainly a close family.

"Allow me to introduce you to my parents, my baba Yaser Malik and my mom, Trisha. These are Rob, Anne, and Gemma, Harry's family." They both smiled widely, but Anne and Trisha approached each other for a hug. Yaser and Rob smiled, shaking hands and Yaser told him and Gemma it was a pleasure. After the women stopped hugging, they all greeted each other, mums looking at Harry and Zayn with evident pride in their gazes.