Loud Music, Leather & Lights
688 Words
The crowd cheered as the band left the stage. The feeling in the room was overwhelming. No wonder they had such an amazing following.
The room began to clear so I grabbed my red Coach clutch and started to walk toward the exit. I felt a large hand grab my arm gently and lead me toward the stage. I looked over and saw Charles staring straight ahead - he opened the heavy green door next to the stage. Immediately, I saw Harry sitting at a table, drinking a bottle of water. The guys were sweaty and tired, but thrilled.
I felt my face flush as Harry's smile widened - he walked over and said, "Hello, love, did you enjoy the show?"
"I-I-i loved it," I gushed. "It was exactly what I needed. Thank you."
He smiled again. Then introduced me to Niall, Louis and Liam. "Lads, this is Sophie."
The guys were very welcoming. "You comin' to party with us?" Niall asked - his Irish accent was striking.
I politely declined. "I really need to get home..."
"Just one drink?" Louis asked quickly.
I stood there for a minute and looked down at my shoes.
"I suppose one drink would be ok," I replied.
"Great! You'll meet the band and our girls," Liam shouted as he nodded to Louis.
I smiled. I took my phone out of my clutch, looked at the time (12:15am) and texted Alexander.
Me: Headed out for a drink with the band & the girls. I know it's after midnight now, so I will be quiet when I get home.
Alexander: No problem. I'm working on a song anyway.
Me: Thanks.
The guys got ready and we all piled into a heavily tinted Escalade which took us to a small club nearby. Paparazzi were out of control, hundreds of girls stood by the door. Apparently, someone had tweeted that OneD was in the city and their fans knew this club was one of their favorites.
As Charles and another guard escorted us through the crowd and into the VIP section, I looked around. This was it. The lifestyle of the rich and famous. Was I ready for this? The flashing lights, the screaming, the incessant questions...it was overwhelming to say the least.
Harry grabbed my hand and gently led me to a large brown leather couch and pointed to it. The music was loud outside the VIP lounge, the club smelled of sweat and expensive cologne. It was mostly dark - occasionally bright lights would flash along with the music.
A waitress wearing a tight black leather dress entered and asked what she could get us. I ordered a Long Island iced tea...I thought it would help me relax a little. I hadn't noticed how tense I was until I saw the light sweat stains on my small purse.
A 31 year old mother, in a club with men about 10 years younger...nervous as hell. I rolled my eyes at myself.
Just as I started doubting my decision, three younger women walked into the lounge. Liam introduced them: Dani, Eleanor and Gemma- as it turns out, Harry had a quite beautiful, very friendly sister. The girls and I chatted about the show. They had watched and listened from backstage. Apparently, it's easier for them to enjoy it where the fangirls can't hound them.
My mind immediately jumped to my kids. Alexander and I never thought about them being harrassed. I hoped and prayed that the paparazzi would show restraint around children.
"Miss, your drink?!?" The waitress called.
I snapped back to reality. "Oh, thank you. Sorry!"
Harry suddenly turned to face me. "You seem distracted. Did you not enjoy yourself?"
"Harry, I smiled for nearly two hours straight. I haven't had that much fun in years," I explained. "You guys are very talented."
I heard Niall yell out my name and ask for a dance. A club remix of "Umbrella" by Rihanna was playing loudly as we walked onto the dancefloor. As we danced and laughed, I stole a glance at the lounge, was Harry glaring at Niall? No, he had no reason to.
- Writer
