Because Hearts Get Broken

Epilogue - One day

Harry bursts through the front door, running gear mud splattered and out of breath.

He shouts down the corridor, "Babe, I'm back! Of course, I had to step right into the biggest puddle. Couldn't have been more unglamorous if I tried..." he smirks to himself, anticipating Taylor's amused reaction.

He removes his trainers and makes his way into the kitchen, detailing his run, and his voice trails off when he realises Taylor is not alone, standing next to her is her mother, Andrea.

He freezes, his face a nearly comical blend of surprise and awkwardness.

"Oh... Ms. Swift," he stammers, trying to regain his composure.

Andrea looks at him with curiosity and amusement.

"Hello, Harry. You're quite the sight."

Harry forces a sheepish grin, clearly flustered, brushing off a solitary drop of mud from his face.
"Yeah, didn't expect to make such an entrance. Lovely to see you again."

He glances nervously at Taylor, then adds, "I'll go get myself sorted," he states before hurrying up the stairs.

Taylor eyes her mother knowingly then and follows him to the bedroom they have been sharing for a year now.

She finds him standing in front of the closet, stripping off his mud-stained clothes.

"Hey, are you okay?" she asks gently.

Harry looks over his shoulder, his expression softening.

Yeah, just a bit embarrassed. Not exactly the way I pictured meeting your mum today," he says, gesturing at his muddy gear.

"Sorry, she just arrived and their hotel is so busy and—" Taylor starts explaining, but Harry narrows her eyes at her, stopping his rummaging through drawers to give her his full attention.

"Hey, it's alright. She's more than welcome to stay here if you'd like..." he offers, his tone sincere.

Taylor's shoulders relax, her anxiety easing.

"I'm not upset that she's here. This is your house now," he adds gently, reaching out a hand and touching her cheek. "Maybe we do need to get a place for them nearby. Or a new place for us if you want," he adds thoughtfully.

Taylor's face lights up, and she reaches for his hand, brushing her thumb over his knuckles.

"If that's what you want, I'd be happy to look for a new place together. Somewhere that works for all of us, even when your family visits," he says, his voice warm.

Taylor smiles, touched by his offer. She knows he loves this house, it has been his home for so long. And he poured so much into making it perfect for him, and for her now.

"I love this house, and our life here, Harry. But a new place could be nice... maybe something nearby for my family?" she says.

Harry's heart swells, and he leans in to kiss her gently. "I'm glad you agree," he murmurs, feeling the familiar pull and deep connection between them, deepening the kiss. "and that you feel like home here," he adds softly.

Taylor smiles against his lips, her eyes shimmering with affection. "I do, wherever you are," she whispers back, her fingers grazing his cheek.

Their kiss lingers until Taylor giggles and she pulls back slightly.

"You're a bit sweaty," she teases, running a finger down his chest.

Harry groans playfully, leaning in to nuzzle her. "Come join me in the shower, then?" he asks, eyes glinting with mischief.