Heartbreaker [h.s.]

Chapter Twenty Two

Warm water cascades over my aching muscles, the smell of coconut and vanilla filling the air bringing me a fraction of comfort. I could have gotten out 10 minutes ago, but I just needed some down time to myself before I left this hotel room and had to put up a front, once again, acting like I wasn't dying a little inside. I rinse my hair rattled with guilt even considering canceling on him... but I'm regretting accepting the invite to grab a bite to eat and a drink with Niall. I know he'd understand because he's sweet, but I can't bail. I didn't want to disappoint my only friend on this tour, but the protest of my jello-like legs and stiff arms were tempting me to cancel.

I knew from the jump that Harry was someone I should have steered clear of, but some self destructive part of me wouldn't allow it. Some deep seeded itch I never got to scratch as a teenager. There were no boys in my small town like that and even if there were, my mother would have had multiple heart attacks if I ever came home with one. Nope, never got the chance, so now I'm chasing a broody bad boy that doesn't want fixing, who outwardly hates me... or maybe he doesn't, I don't know and I'm not sure I really wanna find out.

His allure was so strong it felt suffocating. I can sense him before I see him walking into a room. He can glance in my direction, and my heart gallops out of control betraying all sense or logic and reason. It was easier before our talk in Nashville. Easier to take the bullshit, the insults. But that night, Harry showed a vulnerability like I'd never seen before in a man. He had no reason to open up, so some part of him must trust me, right?

God, my head hurts so fucking had this shower wasn't doing shit.

I turn the squeaky knob and step out with a huff. I wiped the mirror clean and took a long, hard look at myself. What are you doing, Charlotte...

Jesus, the dark circles under my eyes were getting more prominent and purple by the day. What I really need is a good night's rest and a call with Eva. A light knock on the hotel room door pulls me from my thoughts. "Hold on!" I holler as I search for something to cover myself with. I check the time and realize it's about 12:00. I told Ni I'd meet here down in the lobby? Throwing on a tank and a Rolling Stones t-shirt, I pull on some sweatpants and pad over to the door. Checking the peep hole out of habit, my heart stills. Harry. His long hair tied back in a bun, he was leaning one hand against the door jam, chewing his bottom lip. My still damp hair clung to my neck, suddenly feeling cold, clingy and oppressive.

Another knock. This time with force.

"What." I groaned. "I'm busy."

He doesn't say anything for a long while. The sound of paper being pushed underneath the door startles me. A fucking note... again.

My heart squeezes at the sight but I pick it up anyways.

I was a twat and you didn't deserve that. I'll leave you be if you want, but know that I'm really sorry.