Guardian Angel: Larry Stylinson

Chapter 10: Reunited Part II

AN: So, I'm just starting to scratch the surface with this story and you will see why in the next chapter ;-). Aside from that, enjoy! Also, forewarning: there's a cliffhanger.

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Zayn's Pov.

"Hi, Niall."

"Zayn." His body came crashing into mine, wrapping his arms around my torso; I could hear his quiet sobs, tears filling the fabric of my sweater. I wrapped my arms around him, as an initial reaction - missing him more than the rest of the bunch.

"Ssh, Niall. It's okay." I assured him, placing light kisses on the top of brunette roots. His hair was rather relaxed, reminiscing of his younger years in the band. I didn't expect him to run to me, of all people, with open arms; however, I cherished the trice and just held him tightly, allowing him to pour out all his anguish. Pulling away to adjust himself, I allowed my arms to drop freely to my sides. He peered over my shoulders, taking a glance at Harry and Louis, before running to greet them as well. I stood there in awe - happily accepting that we had the whole gang back. Well, not all; but Liam would always be by our sides no matter the circumstances. "Okay, lads. That's enough love for today. Anymore than that and I'll have to get you all a room." They shared a laugh, picking their weight off the ground - after being tackled by Niall - then dusted their clothes off, ridding themselves of the morning dew and grass.

Niall led us into the kitchen. Me being the last one inside his home, I shut the door and bolted it lock. Slowly, I walked around the living - taking a detour before making my way into the kitchen. A small dresser, near the couch, held a framed picture of Niall. From the looks of it, it had to have been taken some time around his X Factor audition, whether prior to or after. Scenario set on the front lawn of his home; a huge smile lit on his face. I ran my a finger, smoothly across the photograph. He used to be so peaceful and happy and I wanted nothing more for him to return to that state of grace. I sat the photo back down, then continued to my stroll around the cozy room, analyzing the remaining photos - consisting of his parents and various other family members and friends, I assume. It wouldn't hurt if I checked out the rest of the house; coming to that decision, my eyes peered over at the stairs. Edging near them, I could hear the lads' laughter and conversing taking place in the kitchen; however, they were too busy playing catch up to notice my presence was non-existent.

The stairs made a creaking noise with each step I took, reminding me to tell Niall that his mother should consider putting carpet over them - safety purposes. I would be in the wrong to snoop around Niall's room, though I wouldn't consider it being sneaky. I'm curious to know how he's spent his past month. Weeks before Liam's passing, he and I conversed, speaking of Niall. He always told me if things should ever go wrong, whatever that may be, to keep an eye on him - to take care of him and keep him on the right track; that he would need someone to be strong for him, mentally and physically. Of course, none of us could have predicated what was to come; however, I gave him my word. Liam and I were very close as well, so I'm the first he came to with such measures. The first week of him being gone, I did all I could to stick by Niall's side; but that unfortunate falling out caused him to leave. I've failed then, but I won't now. I just need to know if he's been okay and staying on the right path - drug and alcohol free, anything along the lines of self-harm. Though he only goes as far as drinking, you can never be too sure. Things change, as well as people.

Upon reaching his bedroom, I opened it, quietly. Their conversation going on in the kitchen had served as a great distraction thus far. His room and the arrangement was almost exactly the same, minus a change up in the bed spread and accessories on the dresser. It gives more of a mature feel than the last time I was here with the lads. The sheets and pillows were out of place as if he had just awaken. High tops and chucks piled near the closet; the drapes were closed. He's been isolating himself - didn't take long to come to that conclusion. The tip of my fingers glided, slowly, across the dresser, as I examined the pictures and souvenirs placed on top. Some of the photos were self-portraits, a few family pictures, then pictures of...Liam. I picked one up, glaring. It was taunting me and I found it hard to keep my emotions in check. "Too early, Liam. Niall needs you...we all do." I mumbled to myself.