Taste (H.S. / A.U.)

Chapter 53

TRIPLE UPDATE: Chapter 52-54

HARRY STYLES

My eyes were burning under the pressure of my palms digging into them. In less than fifteen minutes I would be arriving at her stay, and the clouds haven't gone away. It was a gloomy day, a chance of rain in the evening. It did this in Belgium when I tried planning a date, and right now it felt like it was some cruel jokes, literally raining on my parade. 

Almost raining.

Luckily, it was just gloomy, no storms.

Today wasn't off to a good start. Le Bayadère was our breakfast destination, but when I called to make a reservation I instead was told they have been closed for two days due to a burst pipe in the kitchen. Love to hear it. That's fine, it's fine.

I instead told Elle that I am going to scoop her up, taking a walk through Notre-Dame still. With the warm bag next to me sending fresh aromas of chocolate raspberry filled croissants through the back of a taxi I listened to the young woman in the front seat singing along to the radio in French. It was light and airy, her window cracked while cool air whipped through the space.

Last nights show was probably one of the best from the whole tour, with the energy of the crowd and getting to grab a pint with Niall after. There was no embarrassing moments on stage and Niall approved of Elle instantly when he saw a picture. The only thing that could have made the whole ordeal better would be to have her actually there with me, but that was not possible. The worst part, I wanted to call her before bed, but I was in the air and the wifi was spotty enough as is, I didn't want it cutting in and out while we chatted until sleep.

Even now with the car rattling up the way and I knew my reuniting with her was eminent, my nerves have not settled. Something about this being a real date really put the pressure on. It'll be the first official sighting that anyone and everyone will disclose of us as a couple on the internet, and pave the way for our relationship. Sometimes, one date is all I get with someone, because that was when they realize they cannot handle the spotlight that instantly hit their life with it being intertwined with my own.

I don't think Elle would be like that though.

When she steps out I know she will be a vision in something simple, a jumper layered over slacks, a nice watch maybe even. She always dresses like there is a portfolio shot about to be taken, stylish and classy. 

Lulling in place I texted Elle to let her know I was there, not trying to rush her at all. Instead, I feel her presence like a string tugging me towards something important. She stepped out, red hair tied back with a clip, a few chosen pieces falling in front of her face to frame the boldest blue eyes I've ever seen. 

Despite wanting to open the door for her, she was quick to arrive at the vehicle and jump inside, rubbing up and down her arms with a shudder, "the weather really is testing us today isn't it?"

She was so beautiful that sometimes I had to take the moment to just appreciate her and silently thank how lucky I was that someone so lovely took a notice in me the same way I did her. The way she carried herself was always eloquent and delicate, not a care in the world bringing her down despite the truth I know that plagued her behind closed doors. Eloise was first and foremost professional about her life, keeping it under wraps, perhaps a large part of the initial appeal I had.

Elle did not seek me out, hardly even wanted anything to do with me. She did not harass me, bother me, fawn over me, and instead she was always focused on the silent battles of her own. I knew Elle would be a perfect match for me without realizing it, and that was the appeal.