Fireproof // 1d+5h

Chapter 9

(A/n: posting bc the boys and fifth harmony had a group picture at the AMAs :))

Sydney, Australia
LAUREN'S P.O.V

Filled with frustration and aggravation, I peeled my leather jacket of me and threw it on the kitchen aisle, not caring anymore. I kicked off my shoes as I sulked into my tiny room and let myself collapse on the bed. My thoughts, like bees, began swarming around me as I try to fight it off. But it was useless.

I am so exhausted.
What's up with Normani and Ally?
I won't date that jerk, Brad(AGAIN) regardless Simon's threats.
Where's Camila?
I think I need a break.
Does Zayn like me?
Do I like Zayn?
Why are my feelings so fucked up?
Cri

The list goes on. I had just returned from a private meeting with Simon and he scold me for being 'too comfortable' with Zayn. Wasn't he the one that told us to get along with the boys? Gosh. And then, he tells me I have to start dating Brad from The Vamps again so my band wouldn't get hate because of me being with Zayn. I obviously refused even after him explaining that our band+fans wouldn't be on good terms with Little Mix and their fans since Perrie and Zayn are somewhat engaged. I mean, so what if me Zayn and I are friends? There's really no need to fuss over it. Unless you're Simon, of course. Then, he threatened to drop me from the label. But, then again, I'm not even with Zayn for god's sake. I groaned in annoyance, rolling to the side of the bed, hoping to fall asleep. Ever since that night in the airport with Zayn, I can't seem to stop thinking about him. But I can't fall for him. I just can't.

*FLASHBACK STARTS*

"Thank you, Zayn." I whispered, still trying to force my tears to stop.

This is what I hate sometimes. Wherever I go, there are haters. I mean, I expected that obviously. That's part of fame but... this... this wan't the first time someone called me that. Ever since the start of my career with the girls, I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't use my money on useless things like drugs and alchohol and that I wouldn't turn to those girls that hook up with random guys every night and pretend like it was no big deal the next morning. I made a promise I would not change. But sometimes even the rumors seem more true than the actual truth; sometimes, when a rumor or lie is repeteadly brought up, you actually start to believe it.

I turned back at Zayn. I really was lucky to have someone like him in my life. I really was lucky to have the girls in my life. Without thinking, I leaned in and placed my lips on his. I felt... complete. I felt Zayn stiffen over my bold move but he immediately relaxed as he kissed back with some kind of fiery passion that I like. Feeling his hands snake behind my back, I shuffled closer to him, instantly wrapping my arms around his neck.

My heart and brain were having a hardcore debate in me while I kissed Zayn, not even caring. This kiss was different. Good different. I guess my heart won. But my brain still snapped at me as I pulled back. Slowly. Not wanting this moment to end.

I looked up. My green irises met Zayn's dark brown ones, trying to read his expression. Yes, there was passion. Yes, there was desire. But there was also regret. A pang of disappointment took over me as I scratched the back of my neck, beginning to regret what I just did. He has a fiancé for gods sake!

"We should go. Maybe the guys' plane landed." I said extremely quietly it might even be a whisper. Now it was Zayn's turn to read my face. Attempting to put my best effort on a smile, it worked as Zayn smiled back. Fake smile or real smile, the world will never know because I turned to the staircase door quickly, motioning Zayn to come. The awkward silence between us was eating off of me, devouring my confidence.

"Yeah. Come on. Let's see if the guys have landed."

*FLASHBACK ENDS*

Today was our last day in Sydney as I observed my luggage closely to make sure I wasn't missing anything. We weren't going on plane for a change because we were still in the same country. Basically, it was a roadtrip around Australia until we finish our shows and off we go to the Philipines, i think? Or was it Japan? Eh.

Oh! It's Brisbane. And then Melbourne. Coincidentally, our first show in Melbourne was on valentine's Day. I layed in silence, thinking about all the possibilities that could occur on that day. I mean, I genuinely can't help it!

All of a sudden, Normani burst into my room. She began pacing to and fro, messing up her hair in the process. She was obviously stressed out. I watched her with confusion, not knowing what to do as she grunted over and over again.

"Normani." I called, jumping up from the bed and grabbing her by the shoulders so she would pay attention to me "Sit, calm down and tell me what's wrong."

She obeyed in an instant as I grabbed a water bottle from my bag and handed it to her. Taking a fast sip, she looked at me sternly and began: "Remember when you came in my room some day this week after I got all pissed off at Ally?"

I nodded. That was the first day of tour. Normani continued: "i-it was because of Louis." I creased my brows, not catching on.

"I-I really like him but then he asked Ally out after we watched the movie a-and I don't know what to do. It's obvious h-he likes Ally and its annoying as hell that I can't change his mind. It's annoying to see Ally l-like him back. She might've not told us but its hella clear. And guess what? I just saw them in front getting all hug-y and stuff and I feel like shit. Lauren, please help me. I-I don't want to feel like this. I fucking don't." She practically begs as her eyes became glossy.

Hearing one of my best friend say this hurts me in an emotional level aswell. I know I'm not the one going through it but I can see the pain she's going through. Feel it, even. I didn't want to disappoint her so I replied: "Mani, it's gonna be okay. You're gonna get through this. The pain won't last forever."

I hugged her, hoping to give her some comfort. I felt Normani hug me back as I said: "If there's anything you want me to do, just ask. Okay?"

Pulling back, she nodded, wiping a tear away which managed to drip out. Ally, who as Normani said was in front of my flat, came in and shouted from the living room: "Lauren? You home?"

I gave Normani's arm a gentle squeeze to reassure her. I got up from the bed and went to see Ally, who looked as happy as ever.

***

Omg this chapter was longer thatn i expected lmao but here's whats up with Ally and Normani :( but dont worry, something's coming mani's way ;)

So yeh. Simon's not a very reasonable person in this book lel but its all fiction so hope ya enjoyed that!

Vote and plz tell me what u think x