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

Chapter 77

What will Ashley do when she discovers that a condom has broken without either of them knowing?

"Are you sure you're up to shopping, dear?" Anne asked Ashley.

"It will do me good to get out," said Ashley smiling at Harry.

"I see how it is," said Harry as he reached to hug her goodbye. "Hurry back," he whispered raspily into her ear.

Ashley pulled back far enough to look into his eyes. "I love you," she whispered.

"I love you," he said touching his forehead to hers before lightly kissing her lips.

"Okay, you two," said Anne smiling fondly. "You guys behave yourself," she said kissing Robin goodbye.

****

Ashley laughed out loud before clapping her hand over her mouth. "Are you kidding?" she asked from between her fingers.

"Completely serious," said Anne.

The two had been sitting at a table on the heated patio of a small cafe for the past hour talking about Harry.

"It's really wonderful to see how close you all are," said Ashley softly.

"Harry has told us a bit about your situation. I can't tell you how sorry I am to hear that you've been through so much. You are such a lovely person," said Anne reaching over and touching Ashley's arm.

"I don't want to ruin our afternoon. Let's talk about something else," said Ashley.

"Alright. I'll warn you, Gemma has plans for this evening. Apparently, several of her friends are planning on going out and she is keen to have you go along," she said smiling.

"Will Harry want to go?"

"He's more of a homebody, but I know he'll go if you want to."

"Thanks for letting me know. Maybe I can talk with Harry when we get back."

"Speaking of which, do you think you are ready. The longer we've sat out here, the more you've coughed. Perhaps the cool air isn't good for you," said Anne.

"Maybe you're right. I'm still trying to get over this stuff. It's been really frustrating and now this," she said holding up the bandaged fingers.

****

"Hello!" squealed Gemma as she hugged her mother tightly.

"Hello to you," said Anne squeezing her daughter.

"Ashley, how's the hand? Harry's been proudly telling me how you defended yourself," she said laughing.

"I wasn't quite so proud of myself when the shock wore off and my hand began to throb."

"I'm so sorry. Are you in a great deal of pain?"

"Pretty much."

"Damn."

"What is it?" asked Ashley.

"I was really hoping you'd go out with me tonight," said Gemma.

"What? Wait. No," said Harry.

"Why not? You told me she loves to dance," said Gemma smiling. "Let's ask Ashley. She's a big girl. She can decide for herself. So, what will it be, Ashley?"

"I really need to talk with Harry about it," said Ashley shrugging apologetically.

"Well . . ."

"Gemma, come help me with tea," said Anne cutting her off.

"Looks like you have some things to put away," said Harry.