haunted | zarry au

After years of moving from city to city, Harry and his mother, Anne, have finally settled in Pittsburgh. Harry's life has been a series of escapes, running from the shadows of his abusive father who became violent after discovering Harry's sexuality. Haunted by the traumatic past and constantly looking over his shoulder, Harry lives in a state of perpetual anxiety, keeping everyone at arm's length and avoiding connections that could lead to heartbreak.

Everything changes when Harry meets Zayn, his intriguing new neighbor with a passion for music and a relentless desire to break through Harry's walls. Despite Harry's best efforts to stay distant, Zayn's persistence slowly start to crack the barriers Harry has built around himself.

But as Harry begins to let his guard down, the darkness of his past looms ever closer, threatening to unravel the fragile sense of safety he has found. Can Harry confront his fears or will the shadows of his father's aggression and his own internal struggles continue to dominate his life?

⚠️Trigger Warnings⚠️

This story contains themes and depictions of homophobia, violence, anxiety, aggression, stalking, and domestic violence.