Maybe I'm the Wrong You Like

xxi.

*&*

Weeks later...

They were at the in one of the larger halls in the university and Niall was playing with his academic dress or robe or toga or whatever it is that they call it, for lack of anything better to do because they weren't even allowed to use their phones. And he was stupid enough to actually leave his with his mum when people around him are obviously texting or playing.

He was just waiting for the ceremony to be over because he's too bored he's about to mash his seatmates' heads together because they kept talking over him and it was beyond annoying and Harry is way at the back and it was really stupid that they have to sit according to surname.

After what felt like the rest of forever, it was finally done. Niall is now, officially, a college graduate and he can't believe he was going to have to look for a job...may be next month because he's totally going to enjoy a few weeks of total freedom first.

And also, there's the fact that he wants to enjoy his boyfriend. Because, yes, he totally has one now. And there he is, standing with Niall's family and would you look at that, he's got a nice bouquet of...chocolates.

"You know me so well," he said as he accepted the bouquet.

Zayn smiled at him and kissed his cheek because Niall's parents are standing a few feet away and they have morals—in front of parents.

Niall stepped away from Zayn and went in to greet his family. When Niall gestured for him to come closer so that he could introduce them properly, Zayn took a fortifying breath and put on his biggest smile as he met his boyfriend's family.

Maura hugged him and then gathered his face in her hands. "He is every bit as handsome as you said he is, Niall," she said fondly.

"Do not scare off the boy, Maura," Bobby said as he moved in to shake his hand rather firmly and, okay, ouch. "Listen, Zayn. You hurt my boy and there will be hell to pay."

"Dad," Niall chastised while Zayn just gulped and nodded his head frantically.

"Standard protocol, son." And then he turned to Zayn again, "Now that that's out of the way, you're welcome in our home, anytime." As Niall muttered "m'not a girl" under his breath.

They enjoyed a hearty meal at a posh Italian restaurant and said their goodbyes after.

Niall moved to hug his parents. "I'll see you at Heathrow tomorrow afternoon."

"Yes, dear. Now go. You don't want to be late at wherever it is you young people go to to celebrate," his mum answered.

They were halfway to Zayn's car when Maura shouted, "And take care of each other now!"