Unlikely (H.S.)

thirteen

~Harper~

The morning air was crisp and refreshing as I stepped out of my apartment, the promise of spring evident in the budding trees and the soft scent of blooming flowers. I took a deep breath, hoping to clear my mind and prepare for the day ahead. My thoughts wandered back to Harry's messages and the photo he had sent, a warm flutter in my stomach reminding me of the unexpected connection we were forming.

I can't believe he'll be here with me on Friday.

Maybe I need to take a sick day.

I wonder when his flight gets in?

    I quickly reached for my phone, posing my questions to Harry.

    HJ: Good morning, Harry 😊

    HJ: When do you get in on Friday?

    HJ: Should I be taking a sick day? I have loads saved up, but if I should, I should let them know today.

    HJ: Let me know!

    I tucked my phone back into my work bag before giving him the chance to respond and continued my walk. My walk to the subway wasn't far from my apartment, and it was my daily chance to think about everything going on. The ride was quick, without any delays and I arrived at my stop in no time.

As I emerged from the subway station, the sun was peeking through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the city. The walk to my office was lined with tulips and daffodils, their vibrant colours a welcome sight. I arrived at the building, the familiar routine grounding me as I prepared for the day.

Janet appeared almost immediately after I sat down, her expression a mix of curiosity and barely concealed frustration.

"Morning, Harper," she began, leaning against the door of my office with her arms crossed. "How was your weekend?"

"Morning, Janet. It was good, thanks. Pretty low-key," I replied, trying to sound casual while my mind raced through the events of the past couple of days.

"Low-key, huh?" she said, raising an eyebrow. "Interesting, considering your TikTok video. The one with the Cornish hen, right? It got quite a few likes and comments. Impressive engagement."

I nodded, feeling a mix of pride and nervousness. Ever since Harry had posted a picture of me weeks ago, his fans had been relentless. Their mean-spirited remarks picked apart everything from my appearance to my intentions, accusing me of using him for fame. The constant barrage of insults was overwhelming, each one a stark reminder of the public scrutiny that came with even a hint of association with someone as famous as Harry. I avoided looking at the comment sections of my posts, knowing the vitriol waiting for me there. It was easier to pretend the comments didn't exist, to focus on my work and my passions, rather than let their negativity seep into my psyche.

I can't tell her I have no idea how it did. I just make the videos for myself.

"Yeah, I suppose it did pretty well. I enjoy making those videos; it's a nice creative outlet," I told her.

Janet's smile was thin, almost sarcastic.

"It's great to see your creativity flourishing, Harper. But it makes me wonder why we don't see the same numbers for the articles and projects you work on here. Any thoughts on that?"

Buzz.

Her words stung, and I struggled to maintain my composure, avoiding glancing at my phone on my desk.

"I think it's just a different audience, Janet. My followers on TikTok and Instagram are more engaged with my cooking and baking content. It's a niche that I've built over time."