Brave (Sequel to Beside You)

Chapter Nineteen

Ebony's POV
I can't believe I was about to meet my idols. I had waited 4 years for this and finally it was about to happen. Of course something bad would happen today, the train was delayed. I arrived at the hotel I was meeting the band at 10 minutes late. I went in and I found their manager.

'I'm really sorry I'm late, my train was delayed.' I said sincerely, out of breath from running.
'Don't worry, we're always late. We were just rounding everyone up.' someone from Management said, as he gestured me towards the 4 lads in deep conversation at the back of the room. I looked at each of them carefully as I tried not to hyperventilate. My 4 idols were stood in front of me and I didn't want to be like some of the other fans. I wanted to stay calm and relaxed, at the end of the day we are all human. We are all human it just so happens that these 4 lads are living their dream.

'Alright lads, listen up. This is the competition winner you chose, Ebony.' Management introduced me.
'Hi, how you doing? I'm Michael.' the one I recognized as the lead guitarist, with red hair introduced himself.
'Hi Mikey, I'm very well thank you. It's really nice to finally meet you.' I smiled, giving him a short hug. I moved along to the tallest lad, who I knew as the lead singer Luke.
'Hiya I'm Luke.' He said cheerily, as I gave him a hug. I chuckled at how cheery he was.
Next in line was Calum. He had a few tattoos scattered over his arm. He had dark brown eyes and dyed blonde streak in his dark hair. He introduced himself and as I did with the others I gave him a hug.
Last but not least my favourite member of the group, Mr Ashton Irwin. He looked up at me and that's when I saw it. In his eyes there was this unbearable sadness. His hazel brown eyes, in previous pictures I had seen of him always seemed to glow happiness, even after all he has been through. I had read that he and Aria, his girlfriend, were no longer together. The loss of their baby daughter must have been a strain on their relationship. No one had really heard much from him on social media lately, and every time he was caught out by the paparazzi he looked so dishevelled and upset.

'Hi, I'm Ashton.' He said in his Australian accent, and as much of a fake smile that he could muster. I instantly gave him the biggest hug I could. He looked like he needed it. I lingered for a few extra minutes as if it would make him feel better. I pulled away and he had a slight genuine smile on his face and he did look a little happier.