Picture Perfect

Chapter 23

NICO'S POV:

Harry is in the music room.  I still can't believe Toni has one – okay, yes, I can.  The woman loves music.  She has the entire estate wired for sound.  She loves being able to play whatever song hits her at the touch of her finger.  This place is so her.

Harry asked me if I minded him shutting himself off in the music room.  The poor guy, he is so lost right now.  The fans burning his house is just surreal.  I'll never understand how so called fans can do that.  You can see the confusion in his eyes.  I want to help him but have no earthly idea how to even start. He's been in the room for most of the morning and afternoon.  He came back from running, took a shower and went to the room.  I hear the piano for a while, then a guitar and then a bass. The man is talented. 

My cellphone pings with a text notification. Glancing down at it I see it's Toni.

Nico:   What's up, babe?

Toni:    Just about to go into the building with the Stones.  Oh, my God, Nico!  I'm doing a photoshoot with The Rolling Stones.  I just need to breathe.

Nico:   You are being crazy.  You know your shit, Toni.  Go in there and do your magic.  That's why everyone wants you.  They're just men and you can wrap them around your finger in no time.  Remember that.  Oh!  Did you buy lottery tickets?

Toni:    Thanks, Nico.  Okay, I can ace this shoot.  And yes, I did buy lottery tickets.  We are so going to win it.  I feel it in my bones.  I told you about the dream I had about us winning, right?  It's going to happen.  Those charities are going to be recipients very soon. 

Nico:  I believe you.  Of all the people I know, you make things come true.  You wish hard enough for something, you get it. 

Toni:    Okay, so that means this shoot is going to be perfect and they are going to love the finished result.  I've got the winning ticket in my purse.    Hey, how is Harry doing?  I'm worried about him.  Have you called or texted Louis?  I honestly think he needs a friend or family member there.  Which reminds me, I should text Anne and maybe send a car for her. Would you mind if there was another person at the estate?

Nico:   Of course not.  I think it's an awesome idea to have his friends or family with him.  He's been in the music room since he got back from his run. I'm feeling guilty I didn't call Louis right away.  Do you think maybe he wants some time alone?

Toni:    My guess is he wants some time alone, but do me a favor; check on him – he should eat. I'll text Anne or Gemma after I hear from you.  Talk to him and let your intuition guide you, okay?  I gotta run.

Nico:   Will do, girl.  Love you. Go get 'em!

After I finish texting Toni, I decide to prepare some lunch.  Truth be told, I'm getting hungry and the refrigerator and cupboards are jam-packed with food.  After looking over all the ingredients in the kitchen, I begin chopping and preparing a meal.

While everything is in process, I walk to the music room and knock on the door.  Harry is still playing the piano and doesn't hear me.  Taking a deep breath, I knock harder and the music stops.  I hear his footsteps come to the door and then he's standing in front of me.

"Hi Nico, is my playing too loud?  I thought the room was a bit more soundproof – sorry if I am bothering you."

"No, Harry you are fine.  I thought you might be getting hungry as you've been in the room all morning and afternoon." I tell him.

He smiles and asks me "What time is it?"  

"It's 2:00, you've been busy, huh?"

"I guess, just trying to lose myself for a while."