The "Biggest" Fan (EN)

14.

Harry: *a stage selfie with a crowd in the background*

Harry: A daily update on how much people love me ;D

Me: Starting to think you can't live without my affirmations...

There were about fifty people at the art gallery, way fewer than I'd expected, but then I saw how small the place was - more wouldn't even fit. Lottie played the piano passionately, while people wandered around, admiring the paintings. Probably fun if you're into art.

"Hmm... Think the artist was going for a tree here?" Jake tried to sound smart. His neat shirt was a new look, like now he just needed a fedora to complete his "Mr. Jake" image.
"I just see lines." I squinted, looking at the painting from different angles. I really didn't care; I only showed up for Lottie.

I noticed my mom chatting with people on the other side of the room, so I kept drifting in the opposite direction. She'd only mock the fact that my band won third place in some "stupid" competition. I wasn't in the mood for that.

Harry: By the way, how's Lottie's concert?

Me: Good, but you can ask her yourself, you know.

Harry: But since I chat with you more than with her lately...

Me: Does that mean I need to stop texting you?

Harry: I wish.

Harry: But that's impossible. I see how much you like me.

Me: Oh god. Bye.

Harry: Eyy, I'm really bored right now, don't disappear.

"Who are you texting to make you smile like that?" Jake's voice made me jump. I quickly hid my phone, but he was already curious. I shook my head, trying to brush it off, but his gaze felt like it pierced right through me. Why was I hiding that I was chatting with Harry?

"Oh, is it...?" he started, but I cut him off.

"You're just jealous," I joked.

"Of course I am. I only talk to my dream girl in my dreams." He said, glancing again at Lottie, still playing.

"Fuck, Jake, what's stopping you from just talking to her?" I asked. It wasn't their first interaction; Jake's been coming over since school times.

"I thought you wouldn't be cool with it if..."

"Obviously, I'm not thrilled. But it's worse hearing you drool over her from a distance," I rolled my eyes, "You're both adults."

Jake looked encouraged, and for a second, I wondered if I'd regret giving him the green light. Lottie's never shown much interest in him, but still, why mess with fate?

The moment she finished playing, Jake went over to her. Oh god, here it goes, I thought. But they just chatted friendly, though, with Lottie smiling and thanking him for compliments, I stayed far enough away not to catch much.

I took the chance to pull out my phone and finish reading Harry's messages.

Harry: There's literally no one in this hotel but me, I think.

Harry: Anyways, the maid just brought me a box of ice cream, and I thought I'd be happy.

Harry: And I am, but still bored.

Harry: Where are you?

Harry: Louis

Harry: Lou

Harry: Luke?

Me: I'm literally at Lottie's concert rn, lol.

Me: I'll text you when I'm back home.