Algophobia [ZIALL]

XVII

==Seventeen==

[Zayn’s POV]

            “Remember when the television scared you?” I grinned as I looked up from my plate and directly at Niall. He was contently enjoying the meal we cooked together, and by we, I mean mostly me. As I spoke, the small smile he had flattened, and his eyes rose up to me, and I couldn’t help but to laugh, “You were such a dork.”

            Snorting, Niall spoke up, “Stop hating on me. It’s not my fault for my entire life I was forced into a laboratory to be tested on as a project for cross species genetics.” He jabbed his fork in the air in front of him, with his mouth still somewhat full.

            “Despite that, I think you’re doing alright.” I spoke through the small part in my lips. Oddly, I wasn’t focused on Niall for our talk, but more so, I was focused on the woods behind my house, “Remember when they kidnapped you. I’ve never been able to look at my backyard the same ever since.”

            “I do.” Niall nodded briskly, not really picking up on the topic, “Why do you say I’m alright now?” He was looking directly at me now, with a curious look on his face.

            “I dunno, because you’re here, with me, I suppose.” I slumped into my fist as it rested on my cheek. My eyes drifted back to Niall who had a shade of pink on his cheeks. “You’re blushing.” I couldn’t help but to smile as I pointed this out to Niall. He pursed his lips and looked down, “Don’t be embarrassed.” I grinned, but no doubt, he didn’t see it.

            “I’m not.” His voice was quiet, but it was a happy quiet. I noticed him trying to hide the smile on his face, but he didn’t do a good job at it. I swallowed, completely remembering that I had food right in front of me. Putting all conversation aside, I started into my dinner, as Niall was about half way finished. I lifted my fork that had a small piece of chicken, but before I could eat it, Niall spoke.

            “What are we?” His voice grew awkward and his eyes were still directed downward to his lap. His hands were at his lap as well, but I felt his nerves through his body language.

            “What do you mean?” I knew what he meant, but I wanted to hear it form him though. Everything sounded better when he said it. I bet death would even sound all right coming from the lips of Niall.

            “We kind of said we loved each other, tried to act upon it, but nothing really happened.” His voice sounded so fragile. It was strange hearing him like this. “I just want to know because I think I still feel the same way. Do you?” He seemed eager, but again, completely afraid. It was weird not being the terrified one for a change. I didn’t say anything, but I stood and made so I sat next to him and not across from him. They say actions speak louder than words.

            I had a smile on my face, but it soon faded into something else as I picked up Niall’s face in my hands and gently kissed him. I didn’t kiss him too long, just long enough to tell him I still had my feelings. I took a peak at him as I pulled away and he had a big smile on his face. Looking at it – looking at him, warmed my heart.