This House (l.s.)

11

"Don't look for someone who will solve all of your problems. Look for someone who will never let you face them alone." –Unknown

Louis walks past Jake's room and sees Harry perched on a small chair, reading him a book softly. Jake's eyes are closed and Louis knows he's asleep, but Harry always likes to finish the story even when they fall asleep during it. He claims it's because he doesn't want them to wake up if he stops, but Louis thinks he just likes to see what happens at the end of the story.

When Harry finishes, he stands up and kisses Jake's forehead, shutting off his light and leaving the room. He nearly has a heart attack when he sees Louis standing there.

"Jesus, how long were you here?" he whispers.

"Not long, sorry for scaring you. I didn't know where you were," Louis says.

"Sorry, Jake wanted a story."

"Don't apologize, that was in the rules," Louis shrugs.

"Yeah, I know, but I just, I forgot how much I missed them, how much they missed me," Harry says, shaking his head a little.

"It's amazing how much you miss when you're not home," Louis whispers sadly.

"God, I can't say sorry enough, but I'm going to show you how badly I want to be here. This is where I belong, okay? I'm staying here," Harry promises.

"Actions speak louder than words," Louis says quietly. "You still have nine months and...we're doing well, I think."

"Yeah? We're doing well?" Harry asks.

"Yes. Better than I thought."