21 Directions

Chapter Twelve

{Jasmine POV}

Watching Niall and Emma walk away for a few seconds, I turned to Harry.

"I still can't believe that we did that," I chuckled.

He grinned and nodded, gesturing to the grand entrance of the striking building that was practically shining in the sunshine. I followed his lead as we entered the building. As soon as I stepped foot inside, I marveled at its beauty. The ceiling was incredibly high, decked out with several chandeliers that shone against all four walls.

Someone's quiet laughing brought me back from my daze.

"I'm guessing you like it?" Harry presumed, raising an eyebrow.

I playfully slapped his shoulder, walking ahead. This place would be perfect... for a grand ball. I loved it, it was gorgeous. But it was so not-Liam. I stopped walking and felt a soft thud against my back as Harry bumped into me. I coughed, stepping aside.

"Uh," I said, shaking my head, "I don't think this is a good idea."

"What do you mean?" Harry replied as his eyes flickered across my face.

"This venue..." I explained, "It's not good enough."

"Oh, right." Harry sighed, scratching the back of his head.

I motioned towards the exit and we left and got back into the car. Turning on the radio, I heard Lorde's smooth voice begin to sing through the speakers. I began to hum the tune. Looking over to Harry, I saw that he was mouthing the words with the most ridiculous face possible. Giggling, I joined in.

***

"This is perfect!" I whispered, in awe. After looking at several other venues, we arrived at an upbeat country club with numerous spacious rooms that would be a good fit for our occasion. Harry and I hastily made reservations for the night of Liam's birthday.

I texted Emma.

J: Gahh we found it :)

I didn't get a reply within fifteen minutes, so eventually Harry and I left and made our way home. We pulled into the neighborhood and my phone began to ring.

Checking the caller ID, it turned out to be my mom.

"Hey, mom. What's up?" I started, calmly.

"Oh, hello honey. I was just calling to see where you left your hair straightener."

"Uh, in the bathroom cabinet," I provided, feeling Harry's gaze linger on my face.

"Thanks, you're a doll!" My mother chirped, ending the call and leaving me dumbfounded. She didn't even call me to see how I was, but instead to find out the location of her favorite beauty supply that belonged to me. Talk about number-one mother.

"Is everything okay?" Harry questioned, patting my hand.

"Yeah," I laughed it off, "My mom is just being... well, my mom."

"Mom, Maahhhm." Harry mocked me, grinning. "You're so lucky that you get to see your family so much."

"Trust me; it's super easy to get sick of them."

"I suppose it could be." Harry agreed, driving up the driveway.

"You know what?" Harry suddenly said as he parked the car, turning to me. I stared blankly at him waiting for him to proceed. "You're actually not half bad."

I looked at him with questionably.

"You aren't one of those crazed fans who stalk us and... I'm not saying that's bad but... I'm glad you're here." Harry blurted with a nervous smile on his face.