Strings of Fate

Cam 18- Damsels and debts

I’m still just standing stunned in Harry’s arms hiding my face when I feel his hand stroke down my hair and over my spine stopping midway down my back and I swear my knees buckle. Harry whispers in my ear.

“I’m happy to stay like this as long as you like and I’ll probably regret telling you this but he left.” Harry’s voice is teasing but gentle like he’s trying to rile me up but isn’t completely convinced that it’s the right thing to do. I stay for a half second longer, take a deep breath, then step away

away from Harry who lets his arms fall to his sides. I stare at him, not quite sure how to explain what just happened. Do I even need to explain? It felt pretty self explanatory. My family sucks, Simon is an asshole and I was desperate. He happened to be there and I knew he would be willing to help. But why did I assume he would be the one to help me? Just because he was the only one here? Or was there another reason? I suppose I trusted him. enough to know that he wouldn’t ditch me or make things worse, and I have to admit I was actually pretty angry when Simon insulted him, even though I’ve been guilty of similar thoughts about Incubi. Maybe I should try to go a little easier on him. After this can I really continue to argue that we aren’t friends?

Not quite sure that I’m ready to answer the probably inevitable questions that Harry is going. to come up with, I swap back to my customer service bravado.

“Well that was an adventure. I didn’t know you were such a good actor.” I compliment him. See, I’m being nicer. I can totally do this, although it might take a while for me to fight my automatic reaction which at this point is to say something snarky or insulting to him and walk away. Harry narrows his eyes at me.

“That was… actually nice of you to say. Usually you would just insist that I’m great at manipulating people or something.” He considers for a moment before grinning at me, his smile makes him look even more attractive than usual and I have to force myself not to stare

and maybe swoon.

“Does this mean you’re finally coming round? Are you willing to admit we’re meant to be together? You said as much to the dingbat.” He asks hopefully. I can’t help but snort out a laugh at his nickname for Simon. I’m going to have to start calling him dingbat too. It’s strangely satisfying.

1/4

Cam 18- Damsels and debts

“Don’t get carried away. I was just trying to get him to leave me alone. You know that. I’m not admitting to anything of the type…” I trail off then sigh.

“I WILL admit that I owe you one though. Thanks for your help.” I tell him gratefully. Now most people when you thank them, they respond with ‘no problem‘ or ‘your welcome‘ or even “it was my pleasure. But not Harry. Nope, when I admit to him that I owe him, I instantly realise that I have made a huge mistake when the biggest smirk crosses his face. Shit.

One boon from the damsel in distress. Whatever shall I claim?” He asks dramatically, hand over his heart and fluttering his fingers.

I might have a FEW ideas.” He straightens up, dropping his drama queen act and swapping back to his usual flirtatious self. He winks at me. I glare back. Why am I more comfortable with his inappropriate commentary than I am when he’s being helpful?

sleeping with you.” I tell him flatly. Harry rolls

He points out. I flush red and turn away, heading back behind the bar. I start counting the till but honestly I just need to put a barrier between us and I need something to do so I have another option other than

then. Well I’ll try a different line of questioning. Why don’t I find out what exactly you WOULD do in exchange for this favour. Hmm, what about a drink, would you give me a free drink?” He asks, leaning his elbows onto the bar. I shrug.

drink?” I offer.

now, no. What about a

although that hardly seems like much of a prize. I hugged you like two minutes ago.” I point out. Harry laughs.

2/4

18- Damsels and

What about dinner?” he asks. I pause then try to

I could buy

you to dinner. But it’s good

He tries. I

it.” I warn him.

didn’t say no.” He points out. I sigh.

you want, Harry?” I

it’s not what I’m going to ask for. I want a chance to spend time with you, outside of this bar I mean.” He explains, almost a little sad.

to go to dinner then?” I clarify. He shakes his head in

go on a date with me. I would hate it if you resented me because you feel tricked

you want then?” I ask, kind of confused. He wants to

want to ask for

to and from work, right?” He confirms. I