***Louis Tomlinson***
Saturday, January 28th, 2012 – Holmes Chapel, UK

I sipped the warm tea that Anne had so graciously made for me while Harry went to talk to her in the other room. I knew he was telling her what had happened with my parents – ex parents? – even though he was trying to be discreet about it. I loved how protective he was. They came back into the kitchen after a few minutes, Anne’s eyes watering.

“Louis,” she said to me, her tone serious. “I am so sorry for what happened with your parents. That is unacceptable, and I apologize on behalf of parents everywhere. That is not what we’re here for. I don’t mean to judge your mom or your dad, but I have half a mind to get in my car right now and go have a good talking to with them.” I loved how sweet she was – even her threats weren’t more intimidating than “have a good talking to”. “But I know that won’t help your case much, so, unless you ask me to say something to them, I’ll keep my mouth shut.” I just smiled in appreciation, knowing if I tried to talk I would break down, and I had put Harry through enough of that tonight. “Louis,” she began again, her voice even gentler than it already had been. She took my hand and pulled me to my feet, so I was standing, facing her, my hands in hers as Harry stood behind me, his hand firmly on the back of my neck. “I know I can never replace your mom. But I can still think of you as my son, and treat you like my own. I know how much you mean to Harry, I can see it in his eyes, and it took us all of thirty seconds before the rest of us fell in love with you. You are welcome here, anytime, without having to call ahead, whether you’re with Harry or not, no questions asked. You are a part of this family from now on, no matter what. I will do my best to make you feel comfortable and at home, and I know Robin will, as well.”

A tear spilled out of her eye, and my breath caught in my throat as I tried to keep my own tears from falling. “I know you’re a grown man, Louis, you both are,” she looked lovingly at Harry, “but you’re never too old for a mother’s touch, and I intend to be that for you as long as I can.” I lost it. Her loving gesture in contrast to my own mother’s hateful gesture started me in on a whole new round of tears. “Oh, Louis,” she said, tearful herself, as she pulled me into a hug and Harry rubbed my back.

“Thank you,” I whispered, my voice more sincere than it had ever been, and she knew how much I meant it, and that I wasn’t just thanking her for the offer, but for being there in general.

“Okay, I’m sure you boys are tired,” she said, pulling away after a minute and wiping her eyes. “I set up the basement with blankets just like the other night; if you get too cold, Harry, you know where to find more.”

“We’ll be fine, Mom,” Harry assured her. She nodded, and I could see she still couldn’t fathom what my parents had done. Harry gave her a hug then kissed her on the cheek. “I love you,” he told her, meaning it with every ounce of his soul. She smiled widely.

“I love you, too,” she said, hugging him back and then grabbing my arm and pulling me into a three way hug. “Both of you.” She kissed us both, and then said goodnight and went upstairs to her bedroom. Harry and I grabbed our bags and went down to the basement. It was funny – we had our own place and enjoyed the freedom in that more than anything, but there was something about a mother’s touch, and I realized it didn’t have to be your own mother who gave birth to you.

Notes

Directioners,

Do you love Harry's mum?