Faded | Harry Styles

Chapter One

Jules

"Juuules! Can you please give me one more? Pleasee!"

I looked down to find Lizzie clinging on to my leg, her bright blue eyes shined with desperation and hope. I couldn't help but admire how beautiful she looked today. Her dirty blonde hair was tied into a long ponytail so that her pale, oval shape face was in full display as she grinned up at me, her slightly crooked white teeth exposed. She wore a blue and white polka dot dress and black Mary Janes. Her rosy cheeks and button shaped nose gave her the full innocent and cute effect that no one can ignore. Before I realized what I was doing I was handing her the last chocolate brownie off of the silver platter.

"Don't tell your mom that I gave that to you. Okay?" I sweetly told her. Lizzie nodded, unable to speak because her mouth was full of the baked chocolate. She waved happily before pushing her way through the crowd and towards the miniature park set up for the children.

I watched her for a few moments, making sure she arrived safely before turning back around. I eyed the large table before grabbing a glass of lemonade. I took a sip, the liquid cooling my throat and closed my eyes in relief. The sun today was undeniably hot and despite the amount of deodorant and perfume I was wearing I still feared that the buckets of sweat secreting from my skin would take over and the stench of body odour would appear.

"Hello, beautiful." A deep voice whispered into my ear. I visibly tensed but quickly relaxed when I recognized the voice.

"Alex." I breathed, turning around to face him. I wasn't entirely sure if I was happy to see him or not. We left off on a bad note and I wasn't even sure if he was going to show up to my goodbye party. Now that he's here, I'm actually surprised.

"I didn't think you would show up." I whispered, my eyes never leaving his.

"What? Of course I would come. You didn't think I would?" He asked in disbelief.

My eyes fell to the ground. "We did get in a fight a few days ago." I remind him. Did he forget about it already? This wouldn't be the first time that he forgot about something like this.

I felt his fingers wrap around my chin, pulling it up gently. His crystal, grey eyes were wide and filled with worry and hurt. "No matter what happens between us I will always support you. I'm over it, trust me." He assures me in a soothing voice.

"Okay." I whisper back. There was much more we needed to talk about. However, Alex was in a good mood and I didn't want to ruin that by continuing where we left off.

"Good," he leaned down giving me a quick peck on the lips before smiling widely. "I can't believe your all grown up, your heading off to the big apple tomorrow!"

I couldn't help but smile back. The thought of heading off to college floated through my head since Niall suggested that I attend the same college that he goes to. Since I wanted to study mainly photography, it only made sense that I went to an art and design school. Which so happens that Niall studies at one and I couldn't be happier with my decision. Although I was going to miss my family and Alex dearly, I couldn't be more excited for the big step.

"I know, I'm going to miss you so much." I told him with honesty. I wrapped my arms around his toned waist, backing up my words with some affection.

He returned the gesture, but I could practically feel the small shards of tension bounce back between me and him.

"Jules!"

I looked past Alex's shoulder and couldn't help but squeal with delight when I spotted Macy. I pulled back before taking a few steps, shortening the distance between me and my best friend.