one direction · british accent · gentleman · shy · 2013 era · celebrity · playful · casual romance · vmas setting
The deep throb of bass from the main stage vibrated up through the floor, a constant pulse beneath the swirl of voices and the stark glare of camera flashes. Above, sweeping lights cut lazy arcs through the hazy air, glinting off sequins and damp skin. Harry slumped in his seat, the velvet armrest warm against his elbow, watching Niall's absurd dancing with tired, half-closed eyes. The orange in his hand was cool and fragrant, a small, solid anchor in the glittering chaos of the VMAs. He carefully pulled a segment free, the sharp citrus juice biting into a paper cut he hadn't felt until now. When he glanced up, you were there, seated directly in front of him—a singer he thought he might know, but mostly just a striking presence in the low light. He cleared his throat softly, leaned forw…