Change Your Ticket

Funny

Harry's POV

Zayn has led us to a small patisserie in Marais. A few other customers are there while the room is being filled by a Louis Armstrong song. Not that I know which one, I just recognize his voice.
"Is this place okay?", Zayn wants to know, to which I eagerly nod my head. This is more than okay. In fact, this is still surreal.
Taking in a deep breath in order to prevent any upcoming nervousness, I take a seat close to the window. In this process Zayn's hand leaves mine, what I might have noticed, a lot.
Quietly, we observe the menu and whereas I decide on a Latte Macchiato and a croissant, Zayn orders a Cappuccino and a crêpe. Now here goes the awkward part, small talk. I absolutely despise it and even though my family says I'm quite good at it, I am now dreading it. Especially, because it's Zayn and I don't want to make a fool out of myself in front of him. Although, I kind of already have done that with almost slipping on a shirt this morning. I mentally groan at that thought.
"What are you thinking about, Harreh?", his accent is very noticeable and I get chills from his mere smooth voice.
"I'm bad at small talk", I nervously admit, "like really bad."
Furiously blushing, I keep my focus on Zayn's mug, that is until he grabs it and takes another sip. And of course I follow that motion as well, seeing how the hot liquor is vanishing behind his red lips, making his Adam apple sticking out more prominently.
"Then let's not do small talk, then. What is it that you like to talk about", he finally answers and I am surprised by his suggestion.
"Mmh. I guess I like music", I almost stutter, but then more firmly add, "and I could probably talk about it for hours. Same goes for books ."
"Funny", is all he says smugly, before talking another sip of his Cappuccino. My irritating look must have made him add:"it's exactly what i like to talk about as well. Music helps me to express my feelings, or just to let them go and I don't think there has ever been a time where music hasn't managed to brighten up my mood."
"Funny", I bravely repeat him and this time he is the one that looks a bit puzzled.
"That's exactly how I feel about it", I retort smiling. This earns me a chuckle of him and somehow I am proud for making this beautiful man laugh.
On top of that, the ice has been broken. And Zayn and I do not only talk about our favorite artists and songs, but also about the books we have read and how important it is to still read some. Mostly, we however talk about the feelings each of us have while either listening to music or even while reading and I am more than astonished to find out how much the two of us are alike in that sense.

"So John Irving's The Hotel New Hampshire doesn't make you sad even though so many family members die?", I question him them remembering that he hasn't finished the book yet and I might have given him spoilers.
"I think he displays the hurt and sad feelings behind the lines. Like, you can tell that the protagonist is hurting but it's not the focus. The focus is still on his present life and on what he still got. I think that is kind of just Irving's style that he can describe events of all sorts happening and you as a reader feel touched, but not like you want to cry. And some might say that's a bad sign if these events aren't written that way so that you'll cry or if their good, scream out loud, but I think it is impressive how he makes one feel all these emotions without making us sad. Because you know, that can happen as well and sometimes it feels good to cry while you're reading and sometimes, it drags your mood down. But that's just me. I just love Irving's writing style, it definitely is a rare one", Zayn expresses his opinion and I admire the words falling from his lips. How can that man be so attractive, love music and be so well read?
"I think I know what you mean", I retort, "you feel the emotion but you don't loose yourself in them."
"Exactly. It's maybe more common when you are listening to music. Most of the time, music just lets you feel different emotions for a brief moment. Sometimes, it can accentuate your own feelings and make them stronger, however, sometimes you drown in it and feel like it's the only solace that you got. I don't know if that makes sense to you, but I occasionally think that music is the only comfort that I have. Although, I do love my family and they are the most caring and kind people I ,sometimes, just need music. If you don't get that...", he rambles but I already interrupt him:" I get that. Like, I love my friends and family, but music can be my shoulder to cry on as well."
Zayn stares at me for a moment and states:"We are fucked up." He then chuckles lightly and my lips immediately curl up into a smile as well.
"Maybe."
"Anyways, you want to head out and maybe walk through Paris together?", Zayn switches the topic, but before I can answer he quickly adds, "but if you miss your friends that's okay too. I don't mean to cross over your plans."
"You're good", I reply delighted, although I try not to show it too much, "I'll let them know that I'm with you."
"Sure thing. I'll also text Liam real quick. And maybe we can hang out with them in the evening again, I'm sure the three won't miss the opportunity to go clubbing", Zayn suggest and I nod in agreement.
After having texted our friends, Zayn pays for our food, even though I insist on paying for myself, he has more obstinacy. Besides, it kind of makes this feel like we are on a date, a thought that I'm not that opposed to.
"Come on,Curly", Zayn gently grabs my hand, "lets head out and explore this beautiful city."
And I swear as cheesy as that sounds, I would have followed him anywhere.
Despite only knowing him for a few days. He just has this charm on him, taking me deeper under his spell and I just hope I won't be drawn in too much.