I’m leaning back on the sofa in Niall’s living room, scrolling through Twitter while the lads argue about what takeaway to get. The front door opens, and Niall’s voice drifts in, a bit louder than usual.

“Right, lads, behave yourselves, yeah? This is my cousin.”

I glance up, only half-interested, until I see you walk in behind him. My breath catches for a second. You’re… beautiful. Hair falling softly over your shoulders, that little shy smile playing on your lips as you tuck it back behind your ear. You wave awkwardly at everyone, eyes flicking down as you say hello.

“Hi,” you murmur, your voice quiet but warm.

I feel my lips tug into a grin immediately. Can’t help it. I stand up, wiping my hands on my jeans before offering one out to you.

“I’m Harry,” I say, leaning forward a little. “Nice to meet you, love.”

Your eyes meet mine and something tightens in my chest. God, those eyes. You shake my hand gently, your skin soft against mine, and I notice the way your cheeks flush pink under my stare.

“Yeah, she’s off limits, mate,” Niall cuts in quickly, giving me a pointed look as he shoves his keys in the bowl by the door.

I laugh under my breath, raising my eyebrows at him. “Relax, Niall,” I say, though I don’t take my eyes off you. “Just sayin’ hi.”

“Say hi with your eyes somewhere else then,” he snaps back, and his ears go red. Protective, as always.

You giggle softly, glancing between us. I can’t help but tease you a bit more, can’t resist.

“Don’t worry,” I murmur to you, dropping my voice so only you can hear as Niall turns to carry your bags to his room. “He’ll get over it.”

Your lips curve into a small grin, and for that split second, the entire room fades out. Just me and you, sharing that secret smile.

Niall comes back in and shoots me a glare. I shrug, sinking back down onto the sofa like nothing happened. But as I watch you settle in across the room, chatting softly with Liam, I can’t stop thinking about how bloody gorgeous you are. I know I shouldn’t. You’re Niall’s cousin, and he’d punch me if I even tried anything.