The city lights shimmered like a thousand diamonds outside our apartment window, casting a soft glow on the walls of my new room. I'd finally settled into my new life, surrounded by familiar faces and the buzz of excitement that came with living in the same space as my childhood best friend, Cal, and his roommate Harry. Harry and I had hit it off right away, it became a nightly ritual to sit on the balcony
Tonight was the night I'd meet the famous Sidemen, Cal's close-knit group of friends. As I slipped into some ripped skinny jeans, a white tube top, and a baggy leather jacket, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness fluttering in my stomach. I took a deep breath, reminding myself that these were just people, even if they were incredibly successful YouTubers.
Cal, Harry, and I made our way to the pub where the boys were hosting their weekly gathering. The air outside was crisp, filled with the scent of distant rain. Harry pulled out a cigarette, and I couldn't help but ask for one too. We laughed as we shared a smoke, our mutual habit drawing us closer. Little did we know, this shared moment would be the spark that lit our friendship aflame.
"I'm glad someone smokes besides myself" Harry chuckled.
"Harry I do not think my smoking addiction is something to be glad about" I laughed back
"Now I have someone to talk to when I'm outside" he replied.
"That is true" I smiled
"You nervous?" He asked.
"A little bit, I'm scared about making the wrong impression. I know they'll be nice people, but worried about how I'll come across" I confessed
" Trust me Val, they will love you! I reckon you and Tobi would get on good." Harry smiled
"Thank you Harry" I said, returning the smile.
Finally, we decided it was time to head inside. As the door swung open, a wave of laughter and chatter washed over us. I clung to Harry's side, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. The boys were scattered around, each engaged in their conversations. Cal introduced me, and I mustered a confident smile.
"Hey, everyone, I'm Valentina," I said, my voice surprisingly steady.
"I've heard so much about all of you. It's great to finally meet you."
The boys welcomed me warmly, and I found myself drawn into their world effortlessly.
Like Harry had said, Tobi, in particular, was incredibly easy to talk to, and we hit it off immediately.
As the night wore on, I found myself sticking close to Harry. We laughed, we joked, and he introduced me to the intricacies of their inside jokes and shared history. Amidst the banter and playful teasing, I felt a sense of belonging settling deep within me. These weren't just famous personalities; they were real, down-to-earth individuals who welcomed me with open arms.
"The best videos are always the holiday ones, if you ever come on one then watch out if you have Tobi or Ethan on you're team." He stated
"I think Josh has something against me at this point" Tobi exclaimed.
"Yeah mate, It's because you like apple juice over orange." Josh laughed
"Okay Val, this is a make or break, Apple or orange juice?" Tobi questioned, suddenly very serious.
"Oh Apple juice, one thousand percent" I answered back, trying to stay serious.
"You are officially my favorite person here" Tobi smiled.
"Thank you, Tobi"
"Okay, another question Val, what's you're drink of choice?" Now Ethan asked.
"Definitely a Gin and tonic" I replied
"Would definitely not take you as a Gin girl, feel like it's too classy for you" Harry winked towards me.
"You dickhead" I laughed amongst everyone else.
I was beginning to understand the unique bond that held their friendship together. It wasn't just about fame or success; it was about genuine friendship, the kind that was hard to find in the fast-paced world we lived in.
