Second Star to the Right

Chapter 38 - I've Seen Better

I focus my gaze on the road as I near Louis’ mum’s home. I decided to take the day off of work, so that we can make our flight on time and surprise Louis at tonight’s concert. I plug my phone into the car charger and listen to some music.

About an hour into the drive, my phone rings beside me.

“Answer,” I command my hands-free car set.

Louis’ voice sounds on the other line. “Hello, darling!” he greets me.

I smile at the sound of his familiar voice. “Hey, Lou, what’s up?” I ask sweetly.

“We’re just getting ready for sound check. The shows here were so big that we had to add an extra date.” I can practically hear the smile in his voice.

“That’s amazing, Louis.” I am so proud of all that he has accomplished. Selling out arenas and meet and greets are just the beginning for him, I can tell, and it’s all quite huge. I’m excited to see what else is in store for these boys, because they are already so big in the music industry. Most of all, I am excited to surprise Louis at the concert tonight. I can’t wait to see the smile on his face when he sees his mum and siblings, because I know he has missed them a lot.

“It’s incredible. If someone had told me four years ago that I would be selling out arenas one day, I would never have believed them.”

“Well you did, Lou. Even though I haven’t even known you a year, I know that you worked very hard to get to where you are right now, and you’ve been at it for a while now. I know it wasn’t easy to make it as big as you have, but you did it. I’m so proud of all that you’ve done. I mean, you’re playing for thousands of people in arenas and you have millions of fans, and you’re only 22. That’s something to be proud of, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right. It’s just crazy. I would have never thought that a little boy from Doncaster would make it this far in the music business.” He chuckles.

“You did.”

“I’m just glad I’ve surrounded myself with people that support me. Like you, Sam. I wouldn’t have even come on tour if it weren’t for you making me. I honestly just wanted to stay home with you, but I’m glad that you made me go. You should see some of the fans. When I’m singing onstage, I can see some of them crying and laughing and smiling, and I can’t believe that it’s us that are making them that happy. It makes you feel good inside, knowing that you’re part of the reason for someone’s smile.”

I grin at his sweet words. “I’m sure it does feel good. I just hope you’re happy singing in front of all those people, because if you’re not happy it doesn’t mean a thing.”

“I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. I sing for a living, I’m travelling the world with four of my best friends, and I have the best girl in the world.”

I smile. “I love you.” I state.

“I love you more.”

“Have you talked to your mum lately?” I’m curious to know if she has told him anything about the surprise trip.

“I have, actually. You seem to have taken a sudden liking to my mum.” He chuckles. “You’re always asking about her.” He points out.

I rack my brain for an excuse. “I’ve always liked your mum. I just want to make sure you’re keeping in touch with her while you’re gone. I talk to her a lot, actually. She’s always telling me she misses you.” I try not to blow my cover.

Good one, Sam. I mentally pat myself on the back for coming up with an excuse that fast. It’s not completely a lie though, I just didn’t tell him about the surprise.