Contentions(A Liam Payne AU)

Chapter 7-Hidden

“Are you sure you don’t want me to walk you home, Brin? It’s awfully dark out and there are some creeps out at this time of night,” Harry said worriedly, helping me slide into my coat. I smiled tiredly and shook my head, a piece of hair falling from my messy ponytail and into my face.

“You have the girls to take care of. I’ll be fine,” I reassured, placing a small peck on his cheek before turning to wave at the two children who had bright smiles on their faces.

“See you soon?” Jess said shyly, tucking a piece of hair behind her ear. I giggled and pulled her into a hug, rubbing her back in small circles.

“Of course, I’ll work something out with your Uncle and we can go out and get our nails done or something fun like that. Sound good?” I tried, receiving an enthusiastic nod from her, her whole demeanor radiating adoration.

“Thanks, Brin!” she smiled, rocking back and forth on her feet before she pulled away.

“Do you have to go?” Macy whined, attaching herself to my leg. “I don’t want you to…”

“Yes, honey. She has to get home,” Harry said softly, pulling her from me and resting her on his hip. “But she is quite welcome to come over whenever she wants.” He turned to me. “Understood, darling? I’m always here if you need anything. You have my number and all, whether it’s help with directions, a ride, or some friendly company; I’m right here, yeah?” I bit my lip, nodding in acknowledgement.

“Thank you, Harry,” I smiled, standing on my tip toes to kiss his cheek, even then though he had to lean down for me to even come close. “Bye, girls.” I was pulled into a one armed hug, Harry’s lips brushing my ear.

“Stay safe, Brin. And remember what I said,” he whispered, kissing the skin of my jaw and pulling away. A shaky smile was managed and I walked outside, cringing slightly at the frigid air. My coat was tugged tighter around me and I sped down the street, paying no attention to the dangerous shadows and threatening crevices between houses and shops; I just wanted to get home and lay down. For once in days, sleep was calling my name and I welcomed it.

With visions of warm covers and fluffy pillows, I trudged home, about to enter my flat’s building, when I saw it; Jordan. For once she was sober, a tank top shrunk to her upper half and baggy joggers on her lower, all bruises were exposed. She had a slight bounce in her step and she quietly laughed to herself, tossing up her keys and catching them before sliding into the car. Where the hell was she going? An idea suddenly popped into my brain and I inwardly groaned, knowing that my method would probably come back and bite me right in the arse, but what other choice did I have…

***

Okay, so hiding in the backseat of the car wasn’t the best idea, but it worked. I felt the car pull to a slow halt, Jordan grabbing the duffle bag from the passenger seat and leaving the car. Where were we? Quietly, I peeked my head up slightly, looking out the window and paling at the sight before me; the warehouse. Is that where she was going every night? Indecision welled in my stomach as I debated whether I should go in or not. What if I got in trouble yet again? What if no one was there to save me this time? Despite my hesitance, I forced myself to get out of the car, pulling my jacket closer around me and shuffling towards the building. With every step I took, my dread grew, my thoughts hazing along with my vision as my breath misted and was cast back into my eyes. That familiar scent of smoke and alcohol, the roars of men inside, and worst of all, the sound of hit after hit being landed; it made me sick to my stomach.

“Come on, Brin,” I whispered to myself, letting my shaky hand rest on the handle of the door and slowly pull it open. Everything became intensified-sight, touch, smell-as I stepped foot inside of the all too familiar venue. Now how was I going to find my sister? The crowd suddenly grew louder, drawing my attention to the ring, the sight making me weak at the knees.

Standing in the middle of the blood splattered floor, was my sister…and none other than Liam Payne.