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

Chapter 15

Once they were settled in his car, Harry again reached for Ashley's hand in hopes of providing her some comfort. She turned her head to look out the window needing time to compose her emotions. She had not wanted to cry in front of her aunt whom she knew was holding back her own emotions by staying busy on the phone.

"Ashley, I'm happy to drop you at your place and pick you up in the morning," he said squeezing her hand.

"Would you consider staying at my place? I don't want to spend the night alone. You know, in case something was to happen during the night. I . . ."

"You don't need to explain. I understand and yes, I'll stay with you."

"Thank you," she said giving his hand a squeeze in return.

He drove in silence until he needed directions to her home. When they reached the house, she pointed him to the back of the property.

"This is really nice. You have the close proximity but privacy," he said.

"Yes and it fits my budget."

"But I thought . . ."

"I'm careful, Harry," she interrupted. "I know what it's like to miss a meal or sleep on someone else's couch," she confessed in an unusual show of openness.

"When you were with your mother?"

"Yes."

"I'm sorry. I can't imagine."

"Thank you but I am not looking for pity."

"Good, I'm not offering it. However, I do feel sympathy. Those must have been some awful times."

"We should go in," she said putting an end to the conversation.

Ashley unlocked the door and flipped on a switch just inside that turned on two lamps sitting on end tables in the living room. Harry liked her tastes in muted colors and simple décor. "I like your place," he said.

"I'm sure it feels like a shoebox next to yours."

"I'm sure my house seems pretentious to you," he laughed.

"No, it suits your persona."

"Wow! Why not just slap me?"

"That wasn't a criticism. I just think it goes with celebrity."

"What is it you have against celebrities?" he asked.

"It's a particular group actually. Before I was smarter, I had a couple of encounters with young male celebrities. As you know, we have many patrons who are well-known at my uncle's restaurant. Anyway, let's just say I had the opportunity to be introduced. One thing led to another and they turned out not to be very nice human beings. Although I've managed to avoid situations, I haven't always avoided negative comments because I refused an offer."

"So where does that leave me?"

"I'm not sure, and this is really not a good time to have that conversation," she said. "How do you feel about tea? I know it's late, but I'm too keyed up to go to sleep."

"Me too. Tea sounds great. May I help you with anything?" he asked.

"There's a huge portion of our Italian Crème Cake in the fridge. I'd like a slice. You're welcome to some if you'd like." She had a really bad habit of indulging in sweets when stressed.

Harry located the box in the refrigerator. "Where are the plates, forks, and cake slicer?"

"Here, she said pulling out what he needed from the cabinet and two drawers."