If It's What You Want A Harry Styles Fanfiction || h. s.

Chapter 11

Since she now had some free time, she decided to unpack the gifts she'd brought home the previous night. Derek had given her a beautiful glass figurine she'd admired when they were still going out. Steve gave her a Victoria's Secret gift card along with some lewd comments about how to best spend it and for what purpose. Her friends had pitched in together and purchased a Gucci leather flap briefcase. A couple of the waiters had gone in together and bought her a Burberry umbrella to replace one she'd given to an older patron one night when it was pouring rain. She was sure he'd return it when he got the chance, but for the moment, she had nothing to keep her dry.

She decided to start on the thank you notes to pass the time. About halfway through, her cell rang. "Hello."

"Ashley, it's Harry. We just finished. Still interested in dinner?"

She glanced at her watch to discover it was only 9:00. "Sure. You have the address, right?"

"Yes. See you in 30 minutes. Is that enough time?" he asked.

"Yes, I'm actually pretty much ready to go."

"Great! See you there."

"Bye."

****

The thirty-minute drive was not nearly long enough for the pep talk and reminders she needed to give herself. She still wasn't quite sure why she was going other than he'd touched something in her. After she pulled in a parking space at the back of the restaurant, she took another look at her hair and makeup in the mirror. She smoothed the chocolate brown skinny jeans and re-tucked the soft pink blouse before closing the car door.

"Hello," said someone from behind her. Ashley jumped before turning to look at Harry.

"Oh, it's you."

"Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you," he said touching her arm.

"I'm okay," she said as she pulled her arm close to her and away from his touch.

He looked at her thoughtfully for a couple of seconds before stepping back for her to lead the way.

As soon as the restaurant door closed behind them, someone spotted Harry. "Come with me," said Ashley grabbing his hand and leading him to the back of the restaurant and down a hallway. She quickly stuck her head in the kitchen door and asked for Carol before stepping back and waiting.

"Yes?" questioned Carol as she swung open the door. "Hey there," she said wrapping her arms around Ashley. "It's so good to see you. I've missed you!"

"I'm sorry I didn't call first. Plans were kind of up in the air. This is Harry," said Ashley stepping back to introduce the two.

Carol took in an audible breath, looked at Harry and back to Ashley, and froze for a moment before recovering. "Nice to meet you, Harry," she said. "Are you here for a meal?"

"We are. Unfortunately, one of the patrons already recognized Harry. I brought him back before she could make a move," Ashley explained.

"How about the back corner booth? It offers some privacy. I'll take care of you myself. No worries."

"Thanks, Carol."

"Thank you," echoed Harry.

Once they were seated, Harry also thanked Ashley for the quick save. "Thanks. You're a pro. Perhaps I should hire you."

Ashley laughed, "I have quite a bit of experience protecting people's privacy."

"Well, you are very good at your job."