The Bank of Second Chances | Zarry

Chapter 4: Just Winging It

In celebration of Room Under the Stairs, enjoy ❤️😘

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Niall stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the collar of his shirt for the third time. It wasn't that he was nervous—he'd been on dates before—but tonight had a different weight to it. Meeting Michael at the bar was the easy part. Navigating the dynamics of two wingmen was the challenge. Zayn, Michael's friend, was known for his charm and smooth talk, and Niall wanted to make sure he had backup.

Harry seemed like the perfect candidate. He had been in a bit of a rut. It wasn't that Harry wasn't coping well—he was an amazing father, devoted and loving. But his social life had taken a backseat. Niall had seen the longing in Harry's eyes whenever he talked about dating again, the hesitation mixed with hope. It was high time Harry got out there and remembered who he was before parenthood consumed his every waking moment.

"Hey, mate," Niall called out as he knocked on Harry's door. It was late afternoon, and Harry was inside, tidying up after what seemed like another busy day with Arlo.

"Come in," Harry's voice sounded from inside. Niall entered to find him in the living room, toys scattered around and Arlo babbling happily from his playpen. Harry looked up with a tired but genuine smile. "What's up?"

Niall took a deep breath. "I need a favor. Well, it's more like I need a wingman. There's this guy, Michael, I'm meeting tonight. But he's bringing his mate, and I thought it might be fun if you came along."

Harry raised an eyebrow, half amused and half wary. "You want me to be your wingman? Tonight?"

"Yeah," Niall said, nodding eagerly. "It'll be good for you. Get out of the house, have some fun. Gemma already said she'd watch Arlo for the night."

At the mention of his sister, Harry's eyes softened. Gemma was always encouraging him to get back out there, to not lose himself in the day-to-day of single fatherhood. "You talked to Gemma already?"

"Yep," Niall said, grinning. "She thinks it's a great idea."

Harry glanced at Arlo, who was now giggling at a toy he'd managed to flip upside down. A night out did sound appealing, a chance to feel like his old self again. "Alright," he said, standing up. "I'll do it. But just for tonight."

Niall clapped him on the back. "That's the spirit! You won't regret it."

With the decision made, Harry called Gemma. She answered on the second ring, her voice bright and cheerful as always.

"Hey, Harry! How's my favorite little nephew?"

"He's good, Gem," Harry replied, smiling at Arlo. "Listen, I need a favor. Niall and I are going out tonight, and he mentioned you could watch Arlo?"

"Absolutely!" Gemma exclaimed, sounding genuinely excited. "I'd love to spend time with him. Bring him over whenever you're ready, I got my little guy his favorite treats."

Harry thanked her and hung up, feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety. It had been a long time since he'd been on a proper night out. He hoped he still remembered how to do it.

By the time Niall and Harry arrived at Gemma's place, Arlo was bouncing in his carrier, babbling away. Gemma greeted them at the door, her eyes lighting up at the sight of her brother and nephew.

"There's my little man!" she cooed, taking Arlo from Harry's arms. "And you," she said, turning to Harry, "are going to have a great time tonight. Just relax and enjoy yourself." She said wiggling her eye brows.

Harry gave her a grateful smile. "Thanks, Gem. I really appreciate this."

She waved him off. "That's what family is for. Now go have fun!"