Revenge - English Version

Chapter 19 - Lost

CARE POV

As soon as we pull apart, Harry's hands are still resting on my waist. He rolls his eyes, keeping that playful smile I know so well.

- You're lucky I love kissing you... because I know perfectly well that this was to wind Zayn up, wasn't it? - he whispers in my ear, sending shivers down my spine.

I can feel my body reacting, but I try to keep my composure. - You're the one who kissed me! - I protest, though we both know he's right.

- Oh, please, it was obvious you wanted me to. - He laughs, and before I can reply, I feel his hand slip down to my bum, pulling me slightly closer to him.

- Harry! - I smack his arm, unable to stop myself from smiling, but then my gaze drops. The guilt starts to creep in, and I feel small in the midst of my own confusing emotions. - Sorry...

He just laughs, unfazed, and lifts my chin so our eyes meet again. - Babe, if you ever want to make a point, feel free to use this body for it. - I widen my eyes and give him another, harder smack on the arm. He pretends to be hurt but quickly falls into a genuine laugh. However, when our eyes meet again, something shifts. He pulls me back towards him, and before I can think twice, our lips are locked again. This time, the kiss is gentle, sweeter, unhurried.

But the moment is interrupted by a familiar voice. - What's going on here? - I hear Niall's shout from the top of the stairs, and I break away from Harry, laughing.

- You're so dramatic first thing in the morning, Irish boy, - I tease, shaking my head.

He comes rushing down, eyes wide. - You're my new little sister now, I have to team up with Liam to defend your honour! - he declares, pretending to be serious.

Harry plays along, winking at him. - Don't worry, I'm not going to take her out to 'buy cigarettes' and never come back. - He laughs, making me roll my eyes. - We're officially dating.

My heart beats faster when I hear him say that out loud.

This time, Liam enters the scene, crossing his arms with an exaggeratedly suspicious look. - And who gave you permission to date my sister?

- He's got permission from the only person that matters... - Harry looks at me with that sparkle in his eyes, and I feel myself blushing. - As far as I know, that's not you, Liam. I'm pretty sure Harry wouldn't enjoy kissing that beard.

Harry's face lights up, his dimples showing. He seems genuinely happy for us to be together, without fear or shame, which warms my heart. So different from all the others who, at some point, were embarrassed of me.

Liam's deep voice cuts through the moment. - Treat her with respect, Harry... or I... - he starts, arms still crossed.

Harry sighs and shrugs, with a smile that shows he knows all too well how protective her brother is. - Liam, mate, I understand your concern. But don't forget what you've learnt about me. - His voice grows slightly more serious, and I look on, confused. What is he referring to?

Liam raises his eyebrows, as if recalling something important. - Yeah, Zayn, Niall... all of us. - He pauses and looks directly at Harry. - But let me tell you a secret. - He raises his hands, showing ten fingers.

- You're serious? - Niall asks, clearly shocked. Harry also looks at him, puzzled, as the tension in the air seems to grow.

I don't understand any of this, and frustration starts building inside me. - Hey, guys! I'm right here, remember? - I pull away from Harry's arms and wave my hands in the air, trying to get their attention. But they seem so absorbed in exchanging looks that they don't even hear me.