If I could fly (BOOK 2)

Behave for Santa

The last show before Christmas felt different.

Not heavy in a sad way - just full. Like something closing gently instead of slamming shut.

Darcy was tucked backstage in Y/N's arms, wide awake and fascinated by the noise and lights, her tiny hands waving like she thought she was part of the production. Harry caught sight of her between songs and nearly missed a lyric, smiling so hard his cheeks ached.

When the final bow ended and the adrenaline drained away, the boys lingered in the hallway longer than usual.

Because this wasn't just the end of another show.
It was the start of two weeks apart.

Louis crouched first, grinning at Darcy like she was a tiny celebrity he personally discovered.
"Alright," he said softly. "You behave for Santa."

Darcy blinked up at him and wrapped her fingers around his.

Louis froze. "She's manipulative."

Liam laughed and leaned in next, kissing Darcy's cheek.
"See you soon, superstar."

Zayn followed, calm as ever, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of her head before stepping back.

Niall came last.

He didn't say anything at first. He just held Darcy's little hand between two fingers, watching her kick her feet like she was trying to keep everyone there a little longer.

"See you soon, darlin'," he murmured.

When he stepped back, there was unmistakably moisture in his eyes.

Louis clocked it immediately. "Are you crying?"

"No," Niall said quickly. "Shut up."

Harry laughed and clapped Niall's shoulder. "She'll miss you too."

⸻

Later that night, as Y/N rocked Darcy toward sleep in the hotel room, Harry stepped into the hallway to make a call.

Anne answered on the second ring.

"You sound tired," she said gently.

"I am," Harry admitted. "But I'm also stuck."

"About what?"

"Christmas," he sighed. "I don't know what to get her."

Anne smiled - he could hear it.
"Y/N?"

"Yes," he said immediately. "I want it to mean something."

Anne hummed thoughtfully. "You already give her love and safety. So give her space."

Harry frowned. "Space?"

"A home," Anne said simply. "Somewhere that's hers. Somewhere she doesn't feel like she's passing through."

Harry stopped pacing.

"...A new house," he repeated slowly.

"Yes," Anne said gently. "A fresh start."

There was a beat of silence.

"Why didn't I think of that sooner?" Harry laughed softly.

Anne chuckled. "Because you're sentimental."

When he went back into the room, Y/N looked up at him curiously.

"What?" she asked.

He grinned. "Nothing. Just realised I'm terrible at Christmas."

She laughed - and Harry already knew Anne was right.

⸻

Home felt different at Christmas.