Young & Beautiful

These are his people. They understand him.
“You throw a lovely picnic, Mr. Malik,” Louis smiles, downing another glass of Pinot Grigio and
selecting yet another cigar.
“I’ve been told as much,” Zayn smiles, lounging in his chair and occasionally looking over to
Liam who has begun playing the piano.
“I notice none of the lads are here,” Louis says through the cigar between his teeth as he attempts
to light it against the breeze.
Zayn leans over and cups his hands around the end until a successful flame has established.
“Harry’s on his way,” he smirks, “if that’s what you mean.”
“Who? Harry? Never heard of him,” Louis clips, breathing out the woody smoke.
“I haven’t invited the other lads. I can though, if you like.”
Louis shrugs. “Up to you, mate. It’s your picnic.”
“Actually, it’s yours.”
He stares at Zayn. “What do you mean?”
“Liam asked me to have this in your honor. Didn’t he say?” Zayn asks mildly, motioning to the
server for another refill.
“No,” Louis says and he feels his cheeks flush at the idea. “This is all for me? The chocolates, the
cheese, the wine, the violins, the delivered piano? For me?”
Zayn smiles lightly, observing him. “We already told you we like you,” he says, as if that explains
anything.
“Wow,” Louis laughs, uncrossing his legs and fumbling a bit with his shirt. He’s not a sentimental
person, but he can’t deny that he’s flattered and secretly very pleased. “I don’t know what to say.
Thank you, love. I think we’re going to get on real well.” He grins winningly and salutes him,
hoping his voice held his emotions in check.
“I very much agree,” Zayn says in his silken tone, and just as he opens his mouth to say something
more, the sound of an engine comes rumbling up.
They both turn to see a sleek black car pull up, its tinted windows cold against the peaceful
ambiance of their surroundings.
The driver gets out, dutifully walks to the side, and opens the door, back stiff and attentive.
Louis’ disappointment begins to prickle already because who else could this be but one person?
And yep.
Harry Styles, wearing a sapphire blue velvet suit and silver bow tie, holding a cluster of white
lilies, climbs out of the car, his thick curls catching in the wind and light, his venomous smile
blooming as he takes in the scene before him.
But he’s not alone.
Five girls follow him.