A/N: Hello! I know, I haven't written anything in forever and I should update books instead of this. But I'm having a really hard time lately so just be thankful I'm working on writing to begin with, because it's been really tough trying to.This is a really long oneshot, but I didn't see points to break it into a mini seriers and didn't want it to be a chapter fic either because there wasn't much to it. Either way I hope you enjoy it.

XX

Summary: In which Louis bullies Harry, but one night after school Louis' Mum notices him sitting alone and offers him a ride. Louis' eyes slowly begin to open to the broken boy that is Harry Styles.   

It was no secret that Louis Tomlinson wasn't a fan of Harry Styles. He would poke fun at his hair and his dirty clothes, anything he could really. Mainly because, Harry wouldn't fight back. Louis slapped books out of his arms and he would just stand there and wait for him to walk away before picking them up. He pulled on his curls and and teased him, Harry would just sit there and let it happen. No matter what Louis did, Harry did nothing.

No one understood Harry. His freshman year he was cheery and bubbly, one of the nicest kids in school. Louis never paid much attention to him then. Just rolled his eyes at the annoying kid who was a total kiss ass. His Sophomore year he missed classes a lot. Failed a few and even stopped taking part in afterschool activities. He just sort of blended in. His Junior year he was quiet. He stopped speaking to everyone, and it's when Louis started to poke fun at him. Noticed how his clothes were dirty and ripped, some days he wore the same outfit he did the day before. Harry would shrug him off and run and hide. His Senior year was when it turned to hell. Everyone would whisper about him. Louis' torments only got worse, and Harry just sort of shut down. No one questioned it, no one cared, they just, laughed.

Harry sat on the grass beside the school. He leaned against the tree as he watched the kids of the soccer team practice. He glanced at his watch to check the time. He figured they would be leaving soon. Sure enough, moments later he heard the loud blow of Coach Tyler's whistle sound and players scattering around gathering their things. Slowly but surely the field cleared out, except for Louis. Louis glared at Harry from across the parking lot as he leaned against the gate. Harry just turned his gaze away and sighed. One final car pulled up and Louis climbed into the large SUV, but they didn't pull away. "Louis, who is that boy sitting in the grass?" Jay asked.

"He's no one Mum. Just some loser," Louis said rolling his eyes.

Jay smacked her son's leg and shook her head. "You be nice. What's his name?"

"Harry something."

Jay sat there just staring at the lad. "He looks awfully cold. How long had he been sitting there?"

Louis groaned in annoyance. "I don't know Mum. Probably since the end of the school day. He's been watching us practice all evening, he always does. It's weird."

Jay bit her lip for a moment before climbing out of the car. Louis watched her walk over to Harry confused. "Excuse me. Harry is it?" Jay asked softly. Harry looked up at the lady wide eyed and scared. "You are Harry, correct?" Harry nodded slowly. "Aren't you cold?" She asked. Harry was in a pair on converse with no socks, shorts, and a ripped t-shirt. Jay pulled her sweater around her as the cold fall air blew. Harry shook his head, but Jay narrowed her eyes as she saw the boy shiver. "What are you doing out here? Do you need a ride home?" Harry shook his head and looked down at his feet. "Well, as a mother I can't very well let you sit out here and freeze. Why don't you come with us? You can stay the night," She offered. Harry clutched his torn backpack to his chest and and didn't move. "Harry, please. It's just one night, I just want to make sure you're alright."

Harry slowly stood up, his legs full of dirty cuts and scars. Jay's heart broke for the boy. She wrapped and arm around him and led him to the car where Louis was sitting with his arms crossed. She opened the door and Harry climbed in, buckling up without saying a word. When Jay put the car in drive Louis glared over his shoulder at Harry. "What is he doing?"

"He's coming home with us for the night," She said simply.

"Why? Can't we just drop him off at home?"

"Be nice Louis. So Harry, what year are you in?" She asked smiling in the rear view mirror. Harry just stared.

"He doesn't talk Mum, he's weird," Louis said.

"Louis William," Jay growled. "I hope you don't mind kids Harry. Louis has four younger siblings. All girls. He's my only little baby boy," She cooed. Louis smacked his forehead and Harry just watched. "Mark is a wonderful cook. I think we're having chicken parm tonight. Is that alright?" She asked. Harry nodded. "Perfect. I have to go pick the twins up from daycare and the other two from dance. I can drop you boys off and Louis can show you around. It gets loud early in our house so he can blow the air mattress up for you in his room."

"No," Louis whined. "Mum, why can't we put him in the living room?"

"Oh hush Louis," Jay waved him off. The rest of the ride was silent. Jay pulled upside the curb of their large, but simple home. "I'll be home shortly. Louis, you be nice," She warned. "I won't be long Harry," She smiled as he slid out of the car. He watched her pull away before turning towards the door and following Louis. He toed his shoes off and placed the carefully in the tray beside the others. He twiddled his thumbs as Louis stood in front of him with his arms cross and a glare on his face.

"Look here Harry. If it was up to me, you wouldn't be here. I don't want to see or hear you. I want to pretend you aren't in my home. And you keep your mouth shut at school. Just because my Mum decided to be nice and take you in doesn't mean we're friends. Got it?" Harry just stared at the floor. Louis chuckled. "Who am I kidding. Who would you even tell? It's not like you have any friends. I'll be in my room, you can just stand there and wait till my Mum comes home. I don't want your filth touching my house," He said before storming off upstairs.

Harry grabbed his bag and pulled his shoes on before leaving the house. He sat down on their front steps, hugging his knees to his chest. He watched leaves fall to the ground, and cars cruise by. He could hear kids laughing down the street. They were playing outside. He smiled at their innocence. He misses that. He put his head down and closed his eyes. He was really tired. He could head his stomach growling at him, and the wind blew hard. He shivered in his spot and willing is hunger to go away. He heard a car pull up and lifted his head to see Jay getting out and walking over to him. "Harry, what are you doing out here?" Harry just turned back and looked at the door. "Louis," Jay sighed to herself. "Come on in." Jay led him inside, four girls all chatting behind them. She led him to the living room and let him sit on the couch. "I'll be right back," She said.

Harry sat there as the four girls came over and sat on the floor in front of him. "Who are you?" One of them asked. Harry pulled out his notebook and pointed to the name. "Harry Styles?" He nodded.

"What are you doing here?" One of the little ones asked. He just shrugged.

"You don't talk much do you?" The first asked. He shook his head. "My name is Lottie." He waved to her.

"I'm Fizz," The other smiled. She had dark hair. "That's Daisy and Phoebe." He nodded and waved at the girls.

"Girls let Harry be," Jay said as she and Louis came in the room.

Louis sat down with the girls and smiled, tickling the twins and making them laugh. Harry smiled at the sight, but stopped when Louis looked at him. "Harry, you're more than welcome to shower before dinner if you want. Warm up some. Louis had some clothes that should fit you."

Harry looked over at Louis who sighed. "Yeah. Come on," He waved.

Harry stood up and followed him down the hall. Louis grabbed a towel from out of the closet and a pair of clothes from the laundry room that were folded and still not put away. "Nozzle on the left is cold, right is hot." Louis tossed the clothes and towel at him before closing the door and leaving. Harry stripped down, his muscles sore and bruises all over. The warm water felt nice. He watched the dirt wash away off his body and down the drain. He closed his eyes, relaxing as his fingers massaged the shampoo into his scalp. He never wanted to get out, but knew it would be rude to use so much water.

He stepped out onto the fluffy bath mat before drying off. He felt a tad awkward sliding on a pair of Louis' topman boxers. He pulled the grey sweatpants up, letting them hang low on his hips so that they stayed down by his feet as he was taller than Louis. He pulled the black t-shirt over his head before wrapping his arms around his waist. Despite just showering, he felt so dirty. He knew he shouldn't be here. Shouldn't be cared for so nicely. He didn't deserve this kind of treatment. He wiped his eyes before exiting the bathroom. He placed his dirty clothes in his bag before walking down the hall. He glanced at the family photos hanging up, pausing on one of Louis and his sisters. They all were so happy. Louis was laying on his back, his eyes closed laughing as the twins were tickling him and the other girls holding him down. Harry figures it must be a fond memory. "Jay, you can't just bring a random boy into our home."

Harry turned his head at the voice and slowly walked further down the hall. "He was freezing Mark. I couldn't very well just leave him there."

"How do we know he isn't going to hurt anyone?"

"He a teenage boy not some homeless stranger. He goes to Louis' school."

"Why didn't you just bring him home?"

"He was scared. I'm not going to force him to go anywhere. If he wanted to be home he would've gone there. What if it was Louis? What if he was out on the street cold and alone somewhere, wouldn't you want someone to take him in? Make sure he's safe and taken care of?"

Mark sighed. "Alright. You're right. I suppose we can't just leave him."

"Thank you. Now come on, he must he hungry." Harry ducked behind the corner as the two walked out. He waited a few more moments before following and going back into the living room. Lottie was sitting on the couch playing something on her iPad. Fizz was texting on her phone while the twins were leaning over Louis talking and laughing. Louis glanced up and did a double take at Harry. Harry wrapped his arms around himself again and quickly walked by and into the kitchen. "Harry," Jay smiled. "This is my husband Mark," She introduced. Harry offered him a small wave.

"It's nice to meet you Harry. Hungry?" Harry nodded. "You're going to love dinner. I'm a pretty good chef if I do say so myself. Do you cook?" Harry moved his hand back and forth. He used to, but...not anymore. "Well, maybe sometime you and I could put something together," He offered before dishing out servings onto plates.

Harry just nodded and waited, then helped Jay carry plates in and set the table. Everyone came in and sat in their usual seats. Harry frowned when he saw that the empty seat was next to Louis. The twins sat on one end, Lottie and Fizz across from them. Then Jay and Mark, and then Louis. Harry slowly sat down next to the boy and glanced over at him as he noticed him move his chair a little further away. "Well, dig in," Jay said.

Harry watched as the family started eating and talking about their day. There were several different conversations going on that Harry wasn't sure how they kept up with them all. Mark would go from asking the girls about their day to telling Lottie that she did good on a quiz as she told Jay about it. Harry looked down at his food. It looked amazing. He could see the warm steam rising off the meal. He doesn't remember the last time he had a warm home cooked meal. He reached out and broke a small piece of the chicken off, twirling it into some pasta. He brought the food to his mouth, but paused as he saw the Tomlinson family staring at him. He took the bite and couldn't stop the moan. They laughed and continued their own thing, but Louis and Jay noticed how quickly, how desperately Harry ate the rest of his meal as though it would be the last time he would eat.

Once dinner was over Jay told Louis to take Harry up to his room and get the mattress set up. Harry followed him up the stairs and down the hall to the final bedroom. It was rather nice. Exactly what Harry would've picture for Louis. His bed was in the corner with his desk next to it. Large closet against the back wall. Posters of bands everywhere. Louis plugged the pump in before hooking it up to the air mattress and letting it fill. Harry just awkwardly stood in the corner. "Don't get used to this," Louis said. Harry just looked down and waited. It didn't take long before it was ready. Louis tossed a sheet over it and put some pillows and a blanket down. "Happy?" Harry bit his lip. No, he wasn't happy.

Louis pushed past him and left his room. Harry laid down, pulling the blanket around his body. It smelled like Louis, and as much as Harry disliked him, he found it comforting. He buried his face into the pillows, pulling the blanket close, and curled up into a tight ball. He felt tears run down his face. He was warm, his belly was full, his body was clean, his clothes were new, it was all too much at once for him. He sniffled once before trying to calm himself as he heard the door open and close again and the sound of Louis' feet pad across the room before jumping onto his bed. The light flickered off and the room was silent. Harry closed his eyes and sunk further into the mattress before falling into a deep peaceful sleep for the first time in what felt like forever.

"Harry?" Harry stirred in his sleep at the sound of a woman's voice. He opened his eyes to see Jay standing above him smiling. "Morning. It's time to get ready for school." Harry frowned. He didn't want to go. "Come on, Louis' laid out some clothes for you. I'll give you two a ride."

Jay left the room and Harry sat up. He stretched out his arms, listening to the satisfying crack of his bones. He yawned and scratched his head, taking in his surroundings again. He saw the folded clothes placed on the corner on the mattress. He got up, grabbing the clothes, but was unsure of where to change. Things were quiet, and he assumed Louis was downstairs waiting or something to he just stripped down and changed there. He pulled on the long skinny jeans, putting socks over his feet. He pulled the t-shirt off, then rolled his arms around trying to soothe his aching muscles. He jumped as the door opened and Louis walked in. He stood there frozen and scared. At first, Louis looked angry, but then his features softened as he took in Harry's chest and the bruises and cuts that littered his pale skin. As mean as Louis was to Harry, he never beat him. So, where did all those come from? "B-breakfast is on the table," He said before rushing out of the room.

Harry picked up the red t-shirt before pulling it on. He folded up the blanket he used and placed it neatly back on Louis' bed along with the pillows before making his way to the kitchen. "Hope you like french toast," Jay said as Harry sat down. She placed a plate full of food in front of him.

Harry stared at it for a moment before eating, quickly, again. Mark came in and kissed Jay goodbye before leading the girls out to drop them off. Harry took care of his dishes before grabbing his backpack and putting his shoes on. Jay grabbed her keys and jacket and Louis followed behind as they went to the car. The ride was silent at first, not even the radio playing. "Harry?" Harry looked up at Jay's eyes in the mirror. "Um, do you have a place to go after school?" Louis turned to his Mum and Harry sat there for a moment before nodding his head. "Let me rephrase that. Do you have a safe place to go after school?" Harry shook his head. "Is there someone I can call for you?" Harry shook his head and looked out the window. There was no one. "Does someone need to know where you are?" Once again, Harry shook his head. It's not like they would care anyways, or that they even noticed his absence last night. "Well, then I'll see you after school."

Jay pulled up in the circle ushering both boys out before either could protest. Louis growled and turned to Harry. "You just have to be such a loser don't you?" He stormed off, entering the school and leaving Harry behind. Harry kept his head down and entered the school, instantly hearing whispers about him. Some the usual mean slurs, other's curious about his sudden clean appearance

The day went by as it always does. Except, Louis didn't say anything to Harry. He would glare at him when they passed in the halls, but nothing else. By the end of day Harry was lost. He was standing outside, but unsure of where to go. He knew Jay offered her home to him, but he didn't want to be a burden. Didn't want to impose when he knew his presence wasn't entirely welcome. Plus, who knows how long before they all get sick of him. He doesn't want to be there and think he can truly be happy again, only to be kicked out because he's just a waste of space. He couldn't do it. So he started walking away from the school, ducking down the walking path behind the building to make sure no one would see him.

The wind blew and his body shook, he groaned in annoyance as he stepped in a puddle, soaking his shoe and sock. It was a long walk, but soon enough he stood outside his home. Or, shelter. He wasn't exactly sure what to call it. It didn't feel like home, that was for sure. He grab the hidden key from the crack in the cement step before unlocking the door and putting it back. He went it, wrinkling his nose in disgust at the smell. He went to his room and grab the pile of clothes from his floor before going to the bathroom. He filled the tub up with hot water and added some soap before tossing his clothes in. His hands burned a little from the heat as he did his best to scrub his clothes, trying to get them at least somewhat clean.

He spent a while on his knees before draining the tub. He twisted the clothes, trying to release as much water as he could from them before carrying them back into his room. He laid them out wherever he could find a spot and pulled his curtains back letting the cold air flow through the wide open window. The house was filthy. He missed the clean. He missed that smell of berries from freshly sprayed fabreeze or those special scents his Mum would spray during the holiday season. He wandered around the small home, wondering when it became so dark and gloomy. He had flashes of when it was nice and homey. When the smell of fresh baked cookies would roam through the air. When the fireplace was projecting heat. He missed the music playing or the t.v running. He missed the peaceful silences, when things were still and calm. Now all there is is silence, and it's not calming at all. It's eerie and dark. It makes your ears ring. Makes you think that you could scream at the top of your lungs and there would still be no sound.

Harry turned as the front door creaked open. His father walked in and rolled his eyes. "Where the hell have you been?" Harry was surprised he even knew he was missing. "I asked you a question," His father said stepping closer. Harry just turned away. The back of his father's hand collided with his cheek. He just closed his eyes tighter and waited. "You're so pathetic Harry. Be a man, fight back," he said shoving Harry, but still the boy did nothing. "I said, fight back," he growled lifting his foot and kicking Harry in the gut sending him to the ground. His father stood over him and stared down at Harry who just laid there, he gave up a long time ago. He reached down grabbing Harry by the hair, yanking him to his feet before dragging him to the kitchen. "You just have to look like her, don't you," He said. He grabbed the scissors from the drawer before cutting chunks of Harry's hair away. He pushed him against the wall and punched his face repeatedly, until his nose was bleeding, eye was swollen, and lip was cut. "Get the hell out of my house," He said. He turned his back on Harry and left, slamming the door behind him.

Harry went back to his room, shoving damp clothes into his bag and anything else he could grab. He left his house and just walked. He went to the small plaza in their town and found a spot on a bench beneath one of the lights. He sat there just watching the people and cars around him. He pulled a picture frame from his bag staring down at it. It was him and his Mum, a week before everything fell apart. His Mum had taken Harry out for his birthday. It was good night. They even went to an indoor trampoline place. When they left Anne had asked someone to take their picture. She pulled Harry close, hugging him tightly. Harry wasn't sure at the time why she seemed so sad to hug him. Why she held him so close. He joked about it with her, saying how he couldn't breath. Asked if she was trying to break him in half or something. It feels as though she has.

Harry put the picture back, pushing his bag to the end of the bench and laid down. He counted the time in between light changes at the intersection across the street. He was cold and tired, but couldn't bring himself to fall asleep. "I just have to deposit the check and I'll be home." Harry sat up at the sound of the voice. He turned his head to see Louis walking from the car towards him. "Love you too," He said before hanging up the phone. He was just about to pass Harry when he looked over. At first he just sort of stared, and then his eyes grew wide. "Harry?" Harry pushed himself further into the bench as Louis walked closer. "Jesus, what the fuck happen?" He asked examining his face. Harry turned away. Louis looked at his bag and noticed how full it was. "Why aren't you home?" Harry shook his head. Louis looked around for a moment, then just walked off. Harry put his bag on his shoulder and started walking away. He didn't want to see him again. He didn't make it far before he heard him again. "Harry wait!" Louis ran over and grabbed his shoulder. "I just had to drop that check off. Come on, you're coming with me," Louis said leading him to the car.

Harry got in and buckled up and stared out the window as Louis drove. He was fine for a moment, but he couldn't stop himself from breaking down. Harry began to bawl, screaming and pulling on his hair. Louis pulled the car over. Harry was crying so hard he could barely breath. "I-I-I w-wanna die. W-w-why does e-everyo-one hate me?"

Louis didn't know what to say or do. He never thought he of all people would be consoling Harry Styles. He reached over and pulling Harry closer, giving him a hug until he calmed down. He continued the ride to his house before grabbing Harry's bag and leading him inside. As soon as they walked in Jay rushed over and looked at Harry's face. "Harry, oh what happened?" She reached up and brushed her hand through his hair and frowned at the chucks that were missing. "You look exhausted. Are you hungry? Do you want anything to eat?" Harry shook his head. "Go get some rest then, we can chat in the morning."

Louis and Harry went up to his room. The mattress was still set up, Louis tossed and pillow and blanket back down. "Um, I'll be right back," Louis said. Harry just curled up on the mattress, pulling the blanket tightly around himself. What was he going to do? Louis came back and Harry felt the mattress dip so he sat up to see Louis sitting there. "I uh, figured you might want to get cleaned up a little," He said handing him a wet washcloth. Harry dabbed under his nose wiping away the dried blood and tear stains. Louis swapped with him, handing him a cold ice pack for his eye. "I'll see you in the morning," He said, tossing the dirty cloth in the laundry basket before turning the light off and climbing into his own bed. Harry laid on his back, letting the ice pack sit on his face soothing his eye. He closed his eyes and could feel sleep pulling him under. Before he did though he heard Louis say quietly, "I don't hate you by the way."

He slept in, very late actually. When Harry woke up his head and pillow were wet from the now defrosted ice pack. He sat up, stretching out his muscles before looking at the clock on the wall. It was eleven. He tossed the blanket aside and made his way out of Louis' room. He walked quietly downstairs until he saw Jay and Louis in the kitchen. "Morning Harry," Jay smiled. "You're eye is looking a tad better." Harry nodded and sat down at the table. "Mark is at work. The twins are with their grandmother and the Fizz and Lottie are at a friends house. It's just us for now." Louis and Jay sat at the table with Harry. He squirmed in his seat as he began to feel uncomfortable. "Is someone at home hurting you Harry?" Harry shrugged. Jay just sat and waited for a moment, then Harry nodded. "How old are you?" Jay turned to Louis.

"Pretty sure he's almost eighteen. His birthday is a few months after mine," He said.

"Does somebody miss you Harry? Do you need to be home?" Harry shook his head and looked down for a moment before turning to Louis and putting his hands to his shoulder as if he was holding straps.

"I'm pretty sure he doesn't have a home now. When I picked him up last night he had his stuff in his backpack," Louis explained.

"I talked with Mark," Jay started. "You are more than welcome to stay with us Harry. I want you to be safe. Louis' room is big enough for the both of you and you'll be done highschool in May and we'll help you get into a good Uni and do what we can to make sure you can be on your own. We already have five kids so one more isn't going to hurt," She said. "You would be no problem at all."

Harry looked at her surprised. His eyes were shining as he tried not to cry. He turned to Louis and waited for him. "Can I talk to him for a minute Mum?" Louis asked.

"Sure thing," Jay smiled and walked out of room.

"I'm sorry Harry," Louis said. "I know it's going to take some time to fix things, but I am going to try. I know I haven't been the greatest person, but I never wanted you to get hurt, not like this. I especially didn't want to make things worse for you. I don't think I'd be able to live with myself if you weren't here anymore." Harry looked at him. "I do want you to stay here Harry. I don't want you to go back there and I don't want you to be on the streets. I'm going to be a better person Harry. I never hated you, I just. I don't know, I really don't. I guess I'm just sort of an asshole, aren't I?" Harry nodded which made Louis chuckle. "Can we try to start over?" Harry shrugged. "Take your time."

Jay came back in and smiled at the two boys. "So?" Harry smiled and nodded. "Welcome to the family Harry."

It was weird. Later when everyone returned home things carried on as if Harry wasn't even there. The girls would argue, Jay would scold them, Mark prepared dinner and would go to his office to do a few things. Louis was in his room chatting on the phone, and Harry just sort of sat in the living room unsure of what to do with himself. "Harry?" Daisy asked, standing in front of him. He nodded for her to continue. "What's wrong with your face and hair?"

He frowned and looked down at his hands. "Daisy mind your own business and go play with your dolls," Louis said nudging her shoulder.

"It was just a question," She whined.

"Go, now," Louis said narrowing his eyes at her. Daisy scurried off and Louis turned to Harry. "Sorry bout her." Harry just turned away. Louis sat down on the other end of the couch, leaning against the armrest and kicking his feet up. "You know, you're not going to fit in well here if you don't talk more." Harry just stared. "It's weird. And I'm not saying that to be mean, I'm just teasing." Harry nodded. "I uh, I'm all ears if you ever want to talk. I mean, I know I'm not the first person you would want to vent to, but, I promise I'm not a complete dick."

"I'll keep that in mind," Harry said quietly.

Louis smiled and nodded. He stood up and left the room. Harry did try. He listened at dinner to all the conversations and would nod along, he still wasn't ready to talk. The days passed by and it got a little easier. Harry sort of minded his own business and did his own thing, which mainly consisted of sitting alone or watching the family. Louis stopped picking on him and even got mouthy with his friends when they tried. A few weeks passed before Harry started to feel comfortable living this way. He was sitting at lunch when Louis plopped down across from him. "I hate Mrs.Myers. I swear she's out to get me," He grumbled.

"Probably deserve it," He said.

Louis narrowed his eyes at him. "You know you can be a little bitch. I didn't know you had it in you," He teased. Harry just smiled. "Mum gave me her card this morning. Wants me to take you to get some new clothes so you stop stealing all mine. You're stretching everything out Beanstalk."'

"Midget."

"Don't test me Styles," Louis warned. Harry looked down. Louis sighed. "Not trying to be mean by the way."

"I know," Harry said quietly.

"What the hell are you doing sitting with the freak?" Jason, one of Louis' friends, asked.

Harry frowned. "Eating lunch," Louis said simply. "Is there a problem?"

Jason reached out, flipping Harry's tray over and spilling his lunch onto his lap. Harry just sat there and wrapped his arms around himself. Louis stood up. "Back the fuck off Jason!"

"The fuck is your problem? Are you friends with him or something?" He asked in disgust.

"So what if I am?" Louis said. Harry looked at him.

"You gay for him or something?"

"Why don't you get your head out of your ass and move along. And don't even think about bothering him again," Louis said sternly, standing in front of Harry protectively.

"Whatever. Have fun with your boyfriend Tommo," Jason rolled his eyes and walked off.

Louis was seething. He saw everyone staring at them. "Mind your own damn business," He said. He pulled his sweatshirt off, making Harry stand up. He wrapped it around his waist to cover the mess on him before leading him out of the cafeteria and to the toilets to get cleaned up. "Assholes," Louis muttered closing the door behind them.

"You uh, you didn't need to do that," Harry said quietly.

"You need to learn to fucking grow a backbone then. Stop putting up with everyone's shit," Louis said making Harry flinch and wrap his arms around himself. Louis took a deep breath and calmed himself down before helping Harry clean up. "Sorry. I just, I don't get why you just let it happen."

"I gave up a long time ago Louis," Harry said softly, turning away from Louis.

They both stayed silent until Harry's clothes were cleaned up for the most part. "You good?"

Harry nodded. "Thank you."

Louis just nodded and the two boys left the restroom just as the bell rung for class. The rest of the day just dragged on. Everyone kept whispering about Harry and now about Louis and what's going on between the two. It just made Harry feel bad. He didn't want people being mean to Louis as they have been to him. He felt guilty. It was all his fault. He should've never let Jay take him in that night. "I hear you and Louis got a thing going on," Some girl said turning around in her chair when the teacher went to copy a worksheet. A few other students turned and chuckled. Harry shook his head. "So what, is Louis like a fag or something? Is he so deep in the closet he's willing to fuck you knowing you wouldn't say anything?"

"L-leave him alone," Harry said quietly.

"Oh, he speaks," A boy added. "Defending your boyfriend I see."

"Stop," Harry said, trying to be stern, but coming across more as scared.

"Make us," He teased. Harry just stared down at his feet. "You don't have it in you to do anything about it. You're pathetic Harry."

Kids kept talking and teasing him to the point where he finally just grab his bag, rushing out the room, pushing past the teacher. He could hear the kids laughing as he ran down the hallway. He wasn't sure where he was going, but he just wanted to get out of there. He left the school, going out to the field and sitting in the grass. He stayed out there all afternoon until the final bell rang. He knew he should walk up to the hill and meet Louis, but he couldn't do it. He wasn't going to make Louis a victim too. So he stayed there. He hid under the bleachers and just stayed there. Soon enough it started getting darker as the sun lowered. Harry curled up into a ball, laying his head on his bag for a pillow. What was he going to do? He could hear raindrops as they fell onto the metal on the bleachers. He was mostly dry underneath, but still getting wet and cold. "Harry," A voice called out.

"Harry Sweetie, are you out there?" A woman called.

Harry closed his eyes as Louis and Jay's voice kept calling his name. He kept quiet, but lost hope of being unfound when Louis spotted him as he walked by. "Mum, I found him," He called out, walking over to Harry. "What the fuck are you doing?" He asked, taking his jacket off and wrapping it around Harry.

Jay came jogging over. "Harry, come on, we have to get you dry and warm before you get sick." Harry shook his head. "Harry, please. Come home."

Home. "H-home?"

Louis nodded, grabbing Harry's hand and pulling him to his feet. Harry held his hand tightly as they brought him back to the car. Louis sat out back with him, as Harry refused to let go. "Why didn't you meet me?" Louis asked.

"People were making fun of you. Didn't want them being mean to you anymore."

"Harry, I don't care what they say. I care that you're okay. It's all a bunch of bullshit anyways."

"You had us worried sick Harry," Jay said. "You are apart of this family, don't ever think differently just because someone says something."

Harry nodded and leaned back against the seat of the car. When they got home Louis took Harry straight upstairs to change and get warm. Harry curled up on the air mattress, hugging his knees to his chest. "Harry?" Louis said softly, poking his head in the room.

"Yeah?" Harry responding, Louis fully walking into the room and closing the door behind him. He sat on the edge of the mattress, just staring at Harry for a moment.

"You forgive me right?" Harry looked at him confused. "For, everything I've done and said to you," Louis said, looking down.

"Of course I do. I get it. I was the weird kid who wore the same clothes all the time and, I don't know, was just a loser."

Louis sighed. "I would like to say you're wrong, but unfortunately that's exactly what I had thought. I'm so sorry I thought of you like that Harry."

Harry shrugged. "It's fine. Well, no it's not, but I'm fine I suppose."

"I just don't get it. Despite all of the shit you've been put through, you have one of the biggest hearts I've ever seen. You've forgiven me, you were willing to go back to the way things were so people would stop being mean to me, just everything. I don't deserve it Harry."

"I think you do."

"Why?"

Harry shrugged again. "I guess, it's cause I like you," He said quietly. "Even though you were mean, I knew you weren't a bad person. And the way you are with your family, and the pictures I see of you on the walls, smiling, I know."

"What uh, what was it that people were saying about me?"

"That you were gay. That you must be so deep in the closet that you would fuck me knowing I wouldn't say anything or something like that."

Louis rolled his eyes. "What assholes."

"I'm sorry. They wouldn't be saying any of that if I was around."

"Honestly Harry, I think they've probably been saying stuff like that for a while, and you just gave them a reason to actually say it out loud."

"What do you mean?"

"That my sexuality has come into question before."

"Oh," Was all Harry could think of to say.

Things were silent for a few moments. Harry unsure of what to say, and Louis just thinking. "I uh, I am gay."

Harry just stared at Louis, who was sitting there nervous and clearly uncomfortable. "I don't think of you any different Louis." Louis smiled a little and nodded more to himself than anything. "If it wasn't already obvious, I am too." Once again silence took over. "I'm uh, I'm really tired."

"Oh yeah, right," Louis nodded standing up. Harry stood up too and they bumped into each other. Harry grabbed onto Louis' shoulders to steady himself while Louis grabbed Harry's waist. They both froze and just kind of stared at where there hands were placed. Louis tugged on Harry's hips until he was against him.

"Is it crazy that despite everything you did I've always had a crush on you?" Harry asked.

"Not one bit," Louis responding before connecting their lips. Harry's hands moved to Louis' shirt, gripping it tightly. They pulled apart a moment later just staring at one another, unsure of what to do next. Louis stepped back going to grab some pajamas and go change. Harry laid back down on the mattress and just thinking.

Louis came back in the room a moment later before laying on his bed. "Louis?"

"Yeah?"

Harry picked at the skin around his nails nervously. "What uh, um," He sighed not knowing exactly what to say.

"I don't know Harry," Louis answered, knowing what he was trying to ask. "I just know that I kind of like you. Let's just take things a day at a time and see what happens. No need to rush anything right?"

Harry nodded, not caring if Louis saw or not, before turning on his side and closing his eyes. "Night," He said softly.

"Goodnight Harry," Louis said just as quiet before the room became silent.

Things were good after that night a month ago. The two got to know each other better, hung out a little more and Louis really became Harry's protector. They kissed from time to time, still trying to figure out what was happening between the two of them. They knew they liked whatever it was, but weren't totally ready to do anything about it.

Harry also began to feel more and more welcome in Louis' home. Everyone was so nice and treated him like one of their own. They even bought Harry a bed to put in Louis' room so he wouldn't have to sleep on the air mattress anymore. It really started to feel like home to Harry. He hasn't felt that way in a long time.

"Hey Harry?" Louis asked as they laid in the backyard staring up at the stars. Harry had trouble sleeping sometimes and the fresh air helped to relax him.

"Hmm," Harry hummed in response.

"You don't have to share if you're not ready, but I was just wondering. What was going on before?"

Harry closed his eyes, listening to the sounds of the crickets chirping, the cars racing in the distance, and the sound of Louis breathing beside him. "I uh, lost my mom a few years ago," He started. The summer before my Sophomore year she packed her bags and left me and my Dad. In some ways I saw it coming, they always argued a lot and my mom started to become very secretive of a lot of things. It wasn't that they stopped loving each other though. I knew how much they cared about each other, but something was driving them apart. Their trust was broken. My Dad had taken me out one night and when we got home, she was gone."

"Why did she leave?"

"I didn't know at the time. All I knew was that I was sad, but I was also mad. How could just leave me like that, how could she leave my Dad? He really struggled for a while, it's why I missed so much school, because we both were having a hard time. She disconnected her phone, took herself off the bank account, we couldn't find her anywhere. It was just really hard. Then, a letter came, at the end of the year," Harry took a deep breath, trying to hold himself together. "I was cleaning up around the house when my Dad came storming in. He shoved me to the ground yelling at me. He left the house and I just continued to clean, not knowing what was going on. I saw the letter on his desk and read it. My mom was dying of cancer. It's why she was so secretive. She was already so far along, that she didn't want to go through treatment. She told my Dad that she wasn't going to put me through that. She didn't want me to see her get sick. A month after the letter was sent my Dad got a call from her. He wouldn't let me go with him to the hospital to see her. All I know is that when he got home, he beat me unconscious."

"She passed away?"

Harry nodded. "Ever since then things have just gotten worse at home. My Dad blames me for all of it, and I don't understand why. He always tells me how much he hates me, that I remind him of her. The if I wasn't around she would've fought. I don't know," Harry shrugged. "But I love my Dad. He just doesn't know how to deal with his grief."

"I'm sorry Harry," Louis said, reaching over and holding his hand.

"I know. Everyone always is." The two remained silent, just staring at the sky before Harry finally let go of Louis' hand and stood up. "I'm really tired now, can we head up?"

"Yeah, of course," Louis stood up and the two made their way to bed, but neither actually went to sleep that night.

More time passed, things being awkward between the two after that night, both a little unsure of how to move on from it. They were okay though. "Louis!," Harry yelled running down the hallway. People looked at him funny, but honestly, Harry didn't even care anymore. In fact, a lot of the bullying has stopped. People still talk and make comments, but it isn't like it was before.

Louis turned around as Harry called his name again, reaching his arms out just in time as Harry crashed into him hugging him tight. "Jesus Haz," Louis laughed.

"I did it!" He said excitedly.

"Did what?"

"My GPA. I got it up, not only am I going to be able to go to Uni, I might actually qualify for a decent one too." Where Harry had missed a lot of school and struggled for a while, his grades and GPA dropped significantly, so much so that the school counselor told him he might not get into a very good Uni, if any.

Louis' smiled wide pulling Harry flush up against him in a hug. "I'm so so proud of you," He said.

Harry leaned back and smiled. "I wouldn't've been able to do it if it weren't for you and your family. Thank you," He said eyes shimmering with water as he tried not to cry.

Louis just smiled back and kissed Harry real quick. Harry was surprised. "I think I might just love you Harry.

Harry kissed him again, so happy he thought he might burst. "I think I might love you too Louis," He laughed.

The two walked to class, ignoring the few people giving them looks of disgust. The rest of the day was rather great for the two. Louis was happy for Harry, and Harry was happy with how his life was going. He never thought he would be here. The happiness had to end sometime though.

Louis was retaking a test after school and Jay had a meeting at work, so Harry just said he would walk home as he was never one to mind distances. He was humming a song as he walked down the street until he heard a car slow down behind him. Out of the corner of his eye he could see the vehicle riding along the curb following him. Harry picked up his pace, only for the car to stay right behind him. Harry finally stopped, the car stopping too, and turned around. Harry froze in his tracks as he saw his Dad sitting in the driver's seat glaring at him. He got out of the car and tipped his head towards the passenger side. "Get in the car boy," He demanded.

Harry shook his head. "No."

His dad slammed his door shut. "What did you just say?"

"I said no. I'm not getting in the car with you."

His dad just let out a laugh. "I don't know where the hell you have been, or why the fuck you think you can talk back to me. But I am your father and you're coming home. Now get in the car."

"No," Harry said, standing his ground. "I have a new home, with people who actually care about me. I don't need you anymore."

Harry shrunk back slightly as his dad stormed over grabbing Harry by the collar of his shirt. "You're not eighteen yet Harry. And please, tell me more about this family and kidnapped my son."

"They didn't kidnap me, they took me in. They're more of a family to me than you are."

"You shut your mouth and get in the car before I make you regret it," He said, letting go of Harry's shirt. "Now."

Harry just stared into his dad's eyes. He loved his dad, but he now realizes that he lost him a long time ago. The man standing before him, trying to control him, was not his father. "I can't do that Dad. I'm not going with you."

"You son of a bitch, His dad growled. Harry took off running, his dad following behind him.

"Help!" Harry screamed. He wasn't going to hide anymore, he wasn't going to let his dad hurt him anymore. "Somebody help me!" He cried.

He was about to call out again when he heard a loud bang. He suddenly felt paralyzed in his spot and a warm sensation. He reached down, touching his side before bring his hand back up, only to see it covered in blood. His ears were ringing and he couldn't move. He saw a lady come running out of her house, a man stop his car and take off running past him shouting. The lady stood in front of Harry talking to him, but Harry couldn't hear a word she was saying. He saw her take her scarf off before placing it on his side and pulling her phone out. He saw more people come rushing over to him as he began to stumble around, a man caught him by the arms as he fell down, gently laying him on the pavement and pushing down on the scarf.

Harry could feel the warmth of the blood coating his back as he laid there staring up at all the faces looking at him. His eyes grew heavy and his body felt light. He was in and out as an ambulance pulled up taking over, by the time he was strapped to a bed and inside, he passed out. The only thing he could see now was Louis as his eyes closed.

When Harry finally opened his eyes he looked around. Machines were running and he had an IV in his arm. His side hurt like a bitch and he wasn't sure why. "Hello?" He tried to call out, but his voice was hoarse. He reached over beside him, hitting the call button and waiting a moment before a nurse walked in. "Hi, so glad you're awake," She smiled, checking a few things. "How do you feel?"

"Tired, in pain," He said scrunching up his face as he tried to move some.

"Hey, take it easy. Can you tell me your name?"

"Harry Styles."

"Good. Now Harry, do you remember what happened?"

Harry shook his head. "I just remember leaving school a little bit ago."

The nurse nodded. "You left school yesterday afternoon."

Harry looked at her his eyes wide as he tried to think. "No, that's not right. I, I was." He thought harder. "It uh," His eyes started to water. "Why can't I remember?"

The nursed tried to calm him down as his heart rate began to rise. "It's alright Harry. You're still in shock, it'll come back to you."

"What happened to me?"

"Shortly after school let out there was a call about a boy being shot," She started. Harry reaching to his side, feeling a bandage wrapped around him. "A good samaritan ran after the man that did it. Harry, do you remember seeing your father?"

Harry closed his eyes for a minute. Bits and pieces filling in. "We were arguing yeah, he wanted me to go with him."

"Your Dad said you ran away from home."

Harry shook his head. "That's not true. He didn't care about me. I was sleeping on the streets most nights. A nice family and friend from school took me in." His breath hitched. "Oh God they don't know where I am. You have to call them please," Harry grew frantic.

The nurse reached out grabbing his arm. "Harry calm down. Give me their name and I will call them, it's alright."

"The Tomlinsons. Jay Tomlinson," Harry gave the nurse the number before she left. Harry laid in the bed staring at the plain white ceiling. His Dad shot him. He closed his eyes, a tear sliding down his cheek.

A little while later he heard voices outside his room. "Where is he. Where's my Harry?" Jay. Harry smiled. A moment later she came rushing in the room over to Harry. "Harry," She cried, hugging him the best she could, trying not to hurt him.

"Hi Mama Jay," He said quietly, hugging her back. "I'm okay," He assured.

"I've been looking everywhere for you, you had us so worried and then I get this call and, and," She took a deep breath. "I'm just glad you're here, I thought I lost you."

Harry's heart swelled. He's never had someone care that much about him since his Mum. "Where's Louis?" Harry asked.

"With the girls, I haven't told him yet, wanted to see you first."

Harry nodded. "What's going to happen to me. I'm not eighteen yet and my Dad is gone. Are they going to let me stay with you?"

"I can assure you I'm going to do whatever it takes to make sure you come home. You're apart of our family Harry, I'm not letting anyone take you away even for a few months."

"I'm really tired."

"Rest then, I'm not going anywhere. I'll call Louis."

Harry closed his eyes letting himself fall asleep. When he woke up again he noticed how dark it had gotten outside. He also saw Louis sitting in a chair, his leg bouncing up and down anxiously, biting the skin around his nails. "I'm not dead," He laughed.

Louis' head snapped to the side at the sound of his voice. He ran over, sitting on the edge of the bed and grabbing Harry's hand. "No, no you're not. But you could've been. I wasn't there to protect you Harry and-"

"Don't. Don't do that to yourself Louis. You nor I had any way of knowing this was going to happen. And I'm glad you weren't there, because who knows what would've happen if we both were there. I don't want him to hurt you."

"Harry, you got shot!"

"Yeah, thanks for reminding me," He said rolling his eyes.

"I'm sorry. I'm glad you're okay," Louis smiled.

"Does that mean you'll kiss me now?" Louis laughed and nodded, leaning down and kissing Harry, squeezing his hand. They pulled back when the door opened and Jay walked in.

"Mhm," She hummed. "I knew it, can't believe you couldn't tell me. Louis, Harry's moving out of your room."

Harry smiled, covering his face with his arm and Louis' blushed and nodded. "Understandable."

The three stayed together until Harry was cleared to go home. Jay kept to her word and fought for Harry to stay with them as he was turning eighteen shortly anyways. Jay cleaned out her office and Harry moved into that room for the time being. It took a while for him to get back on his feet, he was in a lot of pain for a while, both physically and mentally. His Dad was put in jail and Harry felt guilty about it all. But time passed, and wounds healed.

"We graduate tomorrow," Louis said, as he and Harry walked down the street.

Harry nodded. "What are we going to do after?"

"Well, we are going to same Uni. I was thinking we could get an apartment together close to campus."

Harry smiled, "That sounds nice." The two had gotten really close. On Harry's eighteenth birthday they made love for the first time and ever since, they two have had an unbreakable bond. It was hard for Harry, as he was still in some pain and had a scar from the bullet that made him feel disgusting. But Louis told him how much he loved him. Assured him that he was the most beautiful person Louis had ever seen, both inside and out. And kissed him until he believed it too.

"I love you Harry," Louis smiled.

"I love you too Louis. Thank you, for everything."

Louis pulled Harry close, kissing him softly.

The two moved out and into their own apartment and went to Uni. Louis got a job as a teacher's aid while Harry got a job at the grocery store, volunteering at the hospital on the side in the children's ward. Years passed and soon enough Louis was teaching english at the local high school and Harry was going for his PH.D to become a psychiatrist.

Louis proposed to Harry when they turned 24, and Harry couldn't say no even if he wanted to. They married at 26 which was the best day of Harry's life as he agreed to take Louis' last name, not wanting to hold on to anything from the past anymore. They adopted a couple of kids a year later and things were perfect.

Harry got a letter a few months later. His Dad has been in and out of prison since that day. He died of Alcoholic Cirrhosis from the excessive drinking he's done since Harry's Mum left. Harry shut down for a couple of days. He knew he had already lost his Dad a very long time ago, but this was different. He had no parents, no family left. Louis and the kids worked hard to cheer him up, showing him that he does have a family. With the Tomlinson's and his own.

Things were perfect. Harry and Louis lived out the rest of their lives happy and together. They sat on a porch swing of their home, in their late eighties, holding hands, watching their kids and grandkids. "I never thought I'd be here," Harry said. "You and your family save my life Louis. That is a debt I'll never be able to repay."

Louis just smiled. "You already have Harry. By being apart of our family. I love you so much."

"I love you too."

Harry died at age ninety, Louis shortly afterwards.

XX

A/N: I know, jumps around some and shitty ending, but I didn't want to detail everything so I did do some time skips and I wasn't sure how to end it, so that's what happened haha. Hope it wasn't too bad or long and that you liked it. I am trying so very very hard to get back into my writing. Foster Home will be the first thing I update most likely. Thank you all so much for sticking with me. I love you all.

Ashley xx