Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name. Come on in and sit for a for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor, he's also the owner. Previously on R&B...
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor.
One -Â âThe One Where A Decision Is Madeâ
Niall Horan watched the old barn, heâd spent the better part of the summer in, growing smaller and smaller in his side mirror. He could still make out the tiny figures of his two little sisters chasing the rusty black Chevy as it picked up speed and its last layer of dust from the long dirt drive to his family house. The girls little arms pumping as they ran, trying to catch up until they finally stopped and he watched their shoulder sag in defeat. Leaving Violet and Ruby was the worst part of this whole decision. The twins had begged and cried and clung to his legs as he walked out the door, but he couldnât make himself stay, this life wasnât for him anymore.
Heâd grown up with the understanding that he would go into the family business of farming and had even gone off to college to get a degree to help with that. With only a semester left before graduation everything changed and Niall made the biggest decision of his life, he was going to drop out of school, leave home and move to an entirely new state, all to pursue his dream. He wanted to perform in front of crowds of people, singing his heart out for them. This was a dream heâd had since he was a little boy and this move was how he was going to make it happen.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor.
Previously onâŚÂ
Four -Â âThe One With The Job Offerâ
Lauren woke up the next morning to more of the incessant rain that seemed to have become a permanent fixture over the city. Not that she minded; she always loved how the soft gray light and the gentle patter of raindrops on the roof filled her room. Perfect cuddling conditions in her opinion. Yet here she was, alone in her nest of blankets and one too many throw pillows, wasting another perfect stormy day being alone.
She lazily reached up to push her dark hair away from her face, suddenly wishing she hadnât had that last glass of whiskey the night before. It was supposed to be âfamily nightâ as Harry called the weekly gathering of their friend group, but since everyone had prior engagements, it had turned into a drunken FRIENDS marathon, party of two.
â
âFuuuuck,â Lauren groaned, rubbing at her forehead. She forced her eyes open to glance around the still spinning room. Good thing she wasnât working today, she didnât think sheâd even be able to make it out of bed, let alone be trusted with a pot of hot coffee. Mmmm coffee. A steaming mug of coffee sounded like a dream right now, especially since her room felt like a meat freezer thanks to the chilly and dreary fall weather. She had not been prepared for these colder temperatures when sheâd moved here from Florida for school and she still wasnât used to them four years later. She pulled her comforter tighter around her, trying to imagine the warm, sandy beaches all of her friends were enjoying at the moment.
â
She jumped as her phone buzzed from under her pillow, snapping her back into reality.
âWho the fuckâŚâ Harry had been after her to join his early morning yoga class for some time now since she had expressed an interest in it, but this was definitely NOT the time to be in any position other than flat on her back. After a string of profanities, she flipped the message open and squinted to focus on the tiny letters.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor.
Previously onâŚÂ
Four -Â âThe One With The Job Offerâ
Lauren woke up the next morning to more of the incessant rain that seemed to have become a permanent fixture over the city. Not that she minded; she always loved how the soft gray light and the gentle patter of raindrops on the roof filled her room. Perfect cuddling conditions in her opinion. Yet here she was, alone in her nest of blankets and one too many throw pillows, wasting another perfect stormy day being alone.
She lazily reached up to push her dark hair away from her face, suddenly wishing she hadnât had that last glass of whiskey the night before. It was supposed to be âfamily nightâ as Harry called the weekly gathering of their friend group, but since everyone had prior engagements, it had turned into a drunken FRIENDS marathon, party of two.
â
âFuuuuck,â Lauren groaned, rubbing at her forehead. She forced her eyes open to glance around the still spinning room. Good thing she wasnât working today, she didnât think sheâd even be able to make it out of bed, let alone be trusted with a pot of hot coffee. Mmmm coffee. A steaming mug of coffee sounded like a dream right now, especially since her room felt like a meat freezer thanks to the chilly and dreary fall weather. She had not been prepared for these colder temperatures when sheâd moved here from Florida for school and she still wasnât used to them four years later. She pulled her comforter tighter around her, trying to imagine the warm, sandy beaches all of her friends were enjoying at the moment.
â
She jumped as her phone buzzed from under her pillow, snapping her back into reality.
âWho the fuckâŚâ Harry had been after her to join his early morning yoga class for some time now since she had expressed an interest in it, but this was definitely NOT the time to be in any position other than flat on her back. After a string of profanities, she flipped the message open and squinted to focus on the tiny letters.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor.
Previously on...Â
Four -Â âThe One With The Job Offerâ
Lauren woke up the next morning to more of the incessant rain that seemed to have become a permanent fixture over the city. Not that she minded; she always loved how the soft gray light and the gentle patter of raindrops on the roof filled her room. Perfect cuddling conditions in her opinion. Yet here she was, alone in her nest of blankets and one too many throw pillows, wasting another perfect stormy day being alone.
She lazily reached up to push her dark hair away from her face, suddenly wishing she hadnât had that last glass of whiskey the night before. It was supposed to be âfamily nightâ as Harry called the weekly gathering of their friend group, but since everyone had prior engagements, it had turned into a drunken FRIENDS marathon, party of two.
â
âFuuuuck,â Lauren groaned, rubbing at her forehead. She forced her eyes open to glance around the still spinning room. Good thing she wasnât working today, she didnât think sheâd even be able to make it out of bed, let alone be trusted with a pot of hot coffee. Mmmm coffee. A steaming mug of coffee sounded like a dream right now, especially since her room felt like a meat freezer thanks to the chilly and dreary fall weather. She had not been prepared for these colder temperatures when sheâd moved here from Florida for school and she still wasnât used to them four years later. She pulled her comforter tighter around her, trying to imagine the warm, sandy beaches all of her friends were enjoying at the moment.
â
She jumped as her phone buzzed from under her pillow, snapping her back into reality.
âWho the fuckâŚâ Harry had been after her to join his early morning yoga class for some time now since she had expressed an interest in it, but this was definitely NOT the time to be in any position other than flat on her back. After a string of profanities, she flipped the message open and squinted to focus on the tiny letters.
Louis. Oh, right, she did have plans for this morning and they did not include lying in bed, hungover, with last nightâs mascara smudged around her eyes. Saved by the rain. Thank the Lord. Fumbling with the screen, she tapped out a message in response.
âWhat? You mean parents donât want their kids playing in the cold rain?â
âI know right? Fucking weak. Did I miss anything last night?â
âJust me and Christinaâs wild party ;) I think I had too much to drink #yikesâ
âWhat are you doing right now?â
âLying in bed. You woke me up asshole.â
âWish I could say I was sorryâ
âFuck youâ
â;)â
Tossing her phone to the side, she rolled her face into the pillow and sighed heavily. A little relieved she didnât have to venture out into the rain to entertain a bunch of sweaty kids, but very much disappointed she didnât get to see her favorite soccer coach.
An hour more of drifting in and out of hazy sleep before Lauren finally decided to venture out of bed, proud of herself that it was before noon. She made herself shower even though the idea sounded terrible what with her pounding head and complete lack of lower body strength.
âNo more whiskey for at least a week.â She reprimanded herself.
The shower did little to soothe the pain in her head, but it did make her feel a bit better and at least now she smelled nice instead of like stale pizza and a bottle of jack. Walking out of her room dressed in a thick cozy sweater and skinny jeans, she wondered where Christina was until she remembered that sheâd had to be at work this morning. Her eyes went wide, mouth stretched out in a slight frown with her teeth gritted gently. She sucked a bit of air through her teeth at the thought of the amount her roommate had drank and prayed Christina felt better than she did.
Lauren frowned, looking around the empty apartment. It certainly wasnât nearly as fun being home alone as it was when Christina was here. She walked to the fridge and peered inside. Not to mention the complete lack of food in the place at the moment. She slipped on her boots and grabbed her raincoat, figuring she might as well head to the shop rather than stay around here and waste the day being hungry and hungover. At least at Rhythm & Brews there was fresh coffee and if she was lucky, some yummy food that wasnât totally and completely plant based. She smiled to herself as she locked up and headed to the car, maybe sheâd see a certain blue-eyed English teacher too.
The place was buzzing as she pulled around the back and parked her car in the special employee spots. Walking through the back door, she practically ran smack into Zayn who was carrying out a full trash bag.
âReny! What are you doing here? Itâs your day off, ya know?â He dropped the bag and wrapped two arms around her, squeezing her in a bear hug. âYou are a lovely sight, though. Thereâs only so much of the other one I can take.â
Lauren pursed her lips as she peeled herself from his hug. âThatâs not nice. You like Christina. You just think youâre too cool to admit it.â
Zayn rolled his eyes, picking up the bag again and opening the door. âWhatever you say, my friend.â
Lauren shook her head while she watched Zayn dump the trash and then pull a cigarette from behind his ear and light it. He was very misunderstood here, but she knew it was his own fault for making himself seem better than everyone. Sheâd told him over and over again that no one likes a snob but he never listened. Turning away and heading to the front, she hoped one day, the kind, sweet boy she grew up with would make an appearance. She knew he was still in there somewhere underneath all those tattoos, ripped jeans, and thick framed glasses.
The shop turned out to be fairly quiet once she was inside, just a few college students scattered here and there hunched over their laptops. Lauren slowly made her way up to the counter and hopped up onto one of the barstools, quickly scanning the room in hopes that Louis was tucked in a corner grading his pile of essays.
She bit at the inside of her cheek, disappointed he was nowhere to be found. And neither was Christina for that matter. Honestly, what kind of business are we running here? She giggled at the thought and helped herself to one of the blueberry muffins on the cake stand next to her. At least, she hoped it was blueberry. Last time she snuck a muffin, it turned out to be some kind of strange rhubarb and kale combination. Harry was onto her.
âI see you found the blueberry muffins I brought in this morning,â Christina said, smiling brightly as she leaned on the counter across from her.
âI knew I was safe since youâre here,â she laughed, popping a rather large blueberry into her mouth.
âArenât you supposed to be somewhere with Louis right now?â Christina asked, pulling off a piece of the muffin despite the swat of Laurenâs hand. Her shoulders slumped at the mention of his name. âIt got rained out,â she shrugged, gesturing to the dreary windows, âand I hate being home alone so I thought Iâd come up here and keep you company.â
âIâm surprised you even made it out of bed! You look like shit.â
âWow, thanks!â Lauren snorted, launching a blueberry at her giggling friend. âBetween you and Lou I canât catch a break.â
âOoh? You talked to âLouâ this morning?â Christina snickered, emphasizing his nickname. It wasnât a secret to anyone that Louis and Lauren were sweet on each other, they were terrible at subtlety. The nicknames, the stolen glances, the tension; it was nauseating. Lauren was never like this in college. She preferred Boondock Saints to The Notebook, rolled her eyes at sentimental love songs, and could do without Valentineâs Day thank you very much. But much to Christinaâs amusement, Louis turned her into this sappy, lovesick mess that became all flustered and blushy at just the mere mention of his name.
âWell, he just messaged me that practice was canceled,â she mumbled, resting her chin in her sweater covered hand in a futile attempt to cover her pink cheeks. Christina thought the whole thing was hilarious.
âOh, my god, Lauren,â She laughed, tossing her wadded towel at her doe-eyed friend, âWill you two just f-
âLove is a smoke and is made with the fume of sighs.â Harry interrupted as he slowly approached the girls, his hands clasped behind his back.
âOh câmon you guys,â Lauren huffed, rolling her eyes. âWeâre just friends! Zayn and I are friends; same thing.â She explained as she tucked a loose lock of hair behind her ear.
Christina and Harry exchanged a knowing glance before answering in unison, âNo.â
âHonestly, Lauren,â Christina continued, âI donât think Iâve ever been able to even mention him without you touching your face or turning 25 shades of red.â
âAnyways, Harry,â Lauren shifted to face him, ignoring Christinaâs dramatic reenactment, âI think I will take you up on yoga class tomorrow. Since Christina loves opening so much, Iâm sure she wouldnât mind having to do it every Monday,â she grinned mischievously.
Harry was too overcome with delight to notice that Christina gasping in horror. âOf course Iâd love to have you!â he exclaimed. Finally, someone was appreciating his lifestyle.
âAre you fucking kidding me?!â Christina shrieked, âyouâre going to leave me alone? On a Monday? With Zayn!â
Lauren mocked her with a pout before Harry put in, âI know you two donât get along famously but Iâm sure you could make it work for a few hours one day a week.This is Laurenâs chance to really center herself, let her mind and body become one.â He said gently, resting his large hand on her slim shoulder. âYou can handle Zayn for an hour or two. I trust you to bite your lip sufficiently until I can get here and play referee. Yes?â
Christina huffed, nodding begrudgingly, a deep scowl on her face. âI suppose I can but Iâm not doing this for forever. If this becomes a permanent Monday morning Iâm going to demand you hire someone else or I want a significant raise.â
Just as Harry opened his mouth to answer the cheery jingle of the store bell caught their attention and a familiar broad frame appeared in the doorway. Harryâs face immediately brightened as he extended his arms towards the door. âAh! Niall! Iâm glad to see you on this dreary day!â
Harry strode across the room to greet his friend as he sauntered into the shop, followed by his new roommate Louis. Lauren could feel the thousands of butterflies in her stomach flutter to life, as well as heat filling her cheeks. Unfortunately, Christina also noticed and gave her a playful jab to the upper arm, snickering when Lauren retaliated with one of her own.
âLouis, I didnât see you back there, my friend!â Harry laughed, clapping him on the back. Louis rolled his eyes, straightening himself up to his full height. It wasnât that he was abnormally short, all of his friends just happened to be a few inches taller and took every opportunity to remind him of it.
âOh câmon, Iâm not that short,â he retorted, flinging his hand up, âheâs got like, maybe two inches on me.â
âItâs okay, Lou, youâre taller than me!â Lauren offered brightly.
âThatâs not sayinâ much cominâ from someone who can barely see over the bar.â Niall quipped.
âDid you need a step stool to get up onto that chair?â
The look of horror that fell on Laurenâs face sent Christina into a fit of laughter.
âOkay, alright,â Lauren nodded, trying not to let the smile tugging at the corner of her mouth give her away, âIâll let you have that round since youâre new, but just that one,â She emphasized, her blue eyes burning into him.
â
âIsnât she cute when she tries to be mad?â Christina cooed, pouting her lips. She reached out to pinch Laurenâs cheek but was roughly batted away before she could make contact. âShut up Christina, I know where you live.â
âCan I get you something, my friends?â Harry asked, stepping in front of the girls, âA coffee? Maybe a new tea blend?â
âActually, I could really use a job if you have any of those lyinâ around back there,â Niall joked. He reached his hand up, rubbing at the back of his neck. Christina couldnât help but notice the perfect swell of his bicep under the sleeve of his t-shirt, her head slowly cocking to the side following his arm movement. Not too bad for a country boy. Wonder what else he has hidden under there, she wondered, biting at her lip. The sound of Lauren clearing her throat quickly brought her out of her daydream.
âDoinâ okay over there?â she smirked, raising her brow. âEnjoying the scenery?â
âOh, stop.â Christina huffed. âI was just wondering how old that shirt could possibly be, do you see those holes?â
âMmhmm okay. Sure, Tina.â
Christina shot her a look of disdain as Lauren smugly turned her attention back on the conversation that was going on in front of them. However, was quickly distracted as Louis passed close to her on his way to a small table tucked away in the corner of the shop. âLook pretty good for having a hangover there, McLeod.â he whispered, giving her a wink.
âYou shouldâve told me you were having a hard time finding a job, Niall,â Harry said, his voice full of concern.
âI justâŚyouâve already done so much for me, man. I just didnât want to be constantly asking for shit.â
âNo, no.â Harry closed his eyes and held up his hand, stopping Niall from continuing. âYou know Iâm here for you, my brother. Why donât you work here? We could really use another guy around here.
âYeah, one that doesnât have a stick up his ass,â Christina muttered under breath.
Almost on cue, Harry gestured back to her, âChristina can show you the ropes! Why donât you come on Monday morning? Lauren will be with me and they might need a third person.â
âYouâre going to start him on a Monday morning?â Christina laughed at the absurdity of the idea. There was no way she was going to have time to teach this guy the ins and outs of the shop, let alone how to make a latte during a Monday rush. And having to deal with Zayn on top of it all; honestly, what was Harry actually drinking in all those kale smoothies?
âItâll be fine! What better way to learn that to just jump in?â
Harry seemed so delighted at his idea, that Niall couldnât find it in his heart to say no. Not that he was in any position to turn down a job, but working at a vegan coffee shop with some questionable characters that didnât seem too keen on a newcomer wasnât really what he had in mind. Niall hesitated, looking from Christina and Laurenâs looks of mild disgust to Harryâs expectant one. He looked like a child on Christmas morning and Niall couldnât help but chuckle at the thought. He breathed out a heavy sigh, running his fingers through his thick blond hair before finally meeting Harryâs gaze.
âAlright. Fine.â
Harry reached out and pulled Niall in for a hug, loudly clapping his back. âItâs settled then! Welcome to the family!â
â
Next time on...
A/N: We hoped you loved this new installment of R&B! Let us know what you think by dropping something into our inbox! Weâd love to hear from you! *C & L
What happens when you take a small town guy, move him to the big city and toss him into an eclectic mix of long time friends?
Niall Horan is about to find out.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.Â
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor, heâs also the owner.Â
What happens when you take a small town guy, move him to the big city and toss him into an eclectic mix of long time friends?
Niall Horan is about to find out.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.Â
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor, heâs also the owner.Â
What happens when you take a small town guy, move him to the big city and toss him into an eclectic mix of long time friends?
Niall Horan is about to find out.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.Â
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor, heâs also the owner.Â
What happens when you take a small town guy, move him to the big city and toss him into an eclectic mix of long time friends?
Niall Horan is about to find out.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.Â
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor, heâs also the owner.Â
What happens when you take a small town guy, move him to the big city and toss him into an eclectic mix of long time friends?
Niall Horan is about to find out.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.Â
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor, heâs also the owner.Â
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor.
Previously onâŚ
Three - âThe One With All The Blushingâ
Christina had lucked out in yesterdayâs round of Rock Paper Scissors with Lauren to see who would open today. Loser opens. Guess who was the loser today?
In her opinion 5 am was entirely too early to be awake, not to mention at work, but the fact that there would soon be a random combination of business people, soccer moms and college kids parading themselves through the door for their morning pick me up meant that she had to be here this early. The coffee was brewing, the shelves were restocked and the glass case at the counter was filled with the assortment of vegan baked goods that Harry always ordered from his favorite bakery. Christina looked over her shoulder towards the door to Harryâs upstairs apartment, making sure it still stood closed before pulling out a large container filled with freshly made muffins. The smell of melted chocolate slowly wafting up from the warm muffins. Sometimes when she opened Christina went out of her way to bring in something for those few special customers who she knew just couldnât stomach another breakfast cookie made with gluten free flour and carob chips. She quietly set them on a covered glass cake stand and put them on the counter next to a basket of wrapped protein bars that had every nut sheâd ever heard of in them and a few she hadnât too.
Looking up at the clock, she noticed it was already 5:30 and time to get the rest of the shop ready for people. A normally easy job turned into a catastrophe when Christina accidentally bumped into a four top sending two of the chairs tumbling down onto the floor in the loudest crash sheâd heard in awhile. She stood still for a moment, ear cocked towards the back, waiting to see if Harry would come barreling through the door, but she heard no movement and went back to work that is until another chair fell, landing directly on her foot.
Christina gasped and yelled out in pain. âFucking hell! Piece of shit! Fuuuuck!â
Up in Harryâs apartment at the top of the shop, Niall woke with a start when he heard a loud crash come from below, followed by a string of curses from a female voice. He sat up on the couch, his blankets falling from his chest. Waiting for a moment, he expected Harry to rush out in a panic but he didnât. He laid back down, trying to go back to sleep, but he couldnât help worrying about whoever was below and if they were alright. So Niall threw the blankets off of him, pulled on his denim shorts and grabbed a shirt to throw on. He made his way downstairs, opening the door to the cafe and looking out.Â
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor.
Previously onâŚ
Three - âThe One With All The Blushingâ
Christina had lucked out in yesterdayâs round of Rock Paper Scissors with Lauren to see who would open today. Loser opens. Guess who was the loser today?
In her opinion 5 am was entirely too early to be awake, not to mention at work, but the fact that there would soon be a random combination of business people, soccer moms and college kids parading themselves through the door for their morning pick me up meant that she had to be here this early. The coffee was brewing, the shelves were restocked and the glass case at the counter was filled with the assortment of vegan baked goods that Harry always ordered from his favorite bakery. Christina looked over her shoulder towards the door to Harryâs upstairs apartment, making sure it still stood closed before pulling out a large container filled with freshly made muffins. The smell of melted chocolate slowly wafting up from the warm muffins. Sometimes when she opened Christina went out of her way to bring in something for those few special customers who she knew just couldnât stomach another breakfast cookie made with gluten free flour and carob chips. She quietly set them on a covered glass cake stand and put them on the counter next to a basket of wrapped protein bars that had every nut sheâd ever heard of in them and a few she hadnât too.
Looking up at the clock, she noticed it was already 5:30 and time to get the rest of the shop ready for people. A normally easy job turned into a catastrophe when Christina accidentally bumped into a four top sending two of the chairs tumbling down onto the floor in the loudest crash sheâd heard in awhile. She stood still for a moment, ear cocked towards the back, waiting to see if Harry would come barreling through the door, but she heard no movement and went back to work that is until another chair fell, landing directly on her foot.
Christina gasped and yelled out in pain. âFucking hell! Piece of shit! Fuuuuck!â
Up in Harryâs apartment at the top of the shop, Niall woke with a start when he heard a loud crash come from below, followed by a string of curses from a female voice. He sat up on the couch, his blankets falling from his chest. Waiting for a moment, he expected Harry to rush out in a panic but he didnât. He laid back down, trying to go back to sleep, but he couldnât help worrying about whoever was below and if they were alright. So Niall threw the blankets off of him, pulled on his denim shorts and grabbed a shirt to throw on. He made his way downstairs, opening the door to the cafe and looking out.Â
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor.
Previously on...
Three - âThe One With All The Blushingâ
Christina had lucked out in yesterday's round of Rock Paper Scissors with Lauren to see who would open today. Loser opens. Guess who was the loser today?
In her opinion 5 am was entirely too early to be awake, not to mention at work, but the fact that there would soon be a random combination of business people, soccer moms and college kids parading themselves through the door for their morning pick me up meant that she had to be here this early. The coffee was brewing, the shelves were restocked and the glass case at the counter was filled with the assortment of vegan baked goods that Harry always ordered from his favorite bakery. Christina looked over her shoulder towards the door to Harry's upstairs apartment, making sure it still stood closed before pulling out a large container filled with freshly made muffins. The smell of melted chocolate slowly wafting up from the warm muffins. Sometimes when she opened Christina went out of her way to bring in something for those few special customers who she knew just couldn't stomach another breakfast cookie made with gluten free flour and carob chips. She quietly set them on a covered glass cake stand and put them on the counter next to a basket of wrapped protein bars that had every nut sheâd ever heard of in them and a few she hadnât too.
Looking up at the clock, she noticed it was already 5:30 and time to get the rest of the shop ready for people. A normally easy job turned into a catastrophe when Christina accidentally bumped into a four top sending two of the chairs tumbling down onto the floor in the loudest crash she'd heard in awhile. She stood still for a moment, ear cocked towards the back, waiting to see if Harry would come barreling through the door, but she heard no movement and went back to work that is until another chair fell, landing directly on her foot.
Christina gasped and yelled out in pain. âFucking hell! Piece of shit! Fuuuuck!â
Up in Harry's apartment at the top of the shop, Niall woke with a start when he heard a loud crash come from below, followed by a string of curses from a female voice. He sat up on the couch, his blankets falling from his chest. Waiting for a moment, he expected Harry to rush out in a panic but he didn't. He laid back down, trying to go back to sleep, but he couldn't help worrying about whoever was below and if they were alright. So Niall threw the blankets off of him, pulled on his denim shorts and grabbed a shirt to throw on. He made his way downstairs, opening the door to the cafe and looking out.Â
The smell of fresh coffee and baked bread hit him in the chest like a train and suddenly Niall felt incredibly homesick. He stepped out onto the old wooden planks of the shop floor, pulling his shirt over his head as he did so.
From her spot on the floor, Christina got an eyeful of bare chest and had to bite her lip to silence herself from making an extremely awkward noise that no one needed to hear. Niall took a few steps forward before he spotted her, walking quickly towards her..
âWas that you I heard? Are you okay?â He asked as he crouched beside her.
Christina blushed slightly to her own dismay. âOh! Yeah, I'm fine. I just knocked a chair over onto my foot. That's all.â
Niall stood and offered her a hand up. She took it and allowed him to lift her easily from the floor.
He watched as she dusted herself off and tried not to be embarrassed by his presence. He thought to himself that this was an interesting turn of events. Yesterday she'd been making fun of his clothing choices and today she was blushing. He shrugged to himself, concluding that maybe this place wasn't so bad after all.
âUm, do you want a cup of coffee. It's really early and we don't open for 30 more minutes, but I've got two fresh pots of the breakfast brew ready.â She started to make her way towards the counter and Niall followed behind.
âSure, I mean, since I am up and all.â
She grabbed a worn mug from the rack behind her and poured him a steaming cup full. âThis is Harry's signature house breakfast blend. He created it himself. Calls it âWake me up before you go-goâ after the Wham song.â She caught Niallâs chuckle under his breath. âOh, just wait. He's got crazy names for a lot of things. When a guy like Harry owns a coffee house called Rhythm and Brews you can expect a certain degree of eccentricity.â
Niall nodded. âOh, believe me. I know it. Remember, I was the guy who experience his self discovery first hand.â
Christina laughed out loudly and then leaned forward, touching her hand to his forearm. Niall felt a small shock radiate from her fingertips at the touch. âI'm not sure how you survived that, but you probably deserve some sort of war medal. What's the one for bravery on the battlefield?â
Niall cocked his eyebrow up, thinking for a moment. âThe bronze star?â
âYup, that's the one!â She pointed at him in excitement, a towel waving in her hand. âBronze Star for dealing with Harry's first years of self discovery and not murdering him in his bed.â
The bell of the door jingled and they both looked up to see Lauren walking in.
âMorning!â She said as she hung her coat up on a rack by the door and then surveyed the room, half the chairs still on the tables. âWhy are the chairs not down yet. It's 6 o'clock.â
âOh Jesus! I didn't realize it was so late.â Christina explained as she came rushing out from behind the counter and began putting chairs down as quickly as possible. She called back over her shoulder to Lauren, her tone full of laughter. âBlame Niall. It's his fault. His jorts were distracting me.â
Lauren clamped her lips between her teeth trying not to laugh. âI can see why that would happen.â
Niall rolled his eyes, remembering what Harry said about them just wanting to see if he'd take it or push back a little. But Niall knew he could play this game too. So with a smile on his face, he smoothed his hands down the legs of his shorts, saying, âI thought since you guys loved them so much yesterday you'd want to see them again.â
Lauren giggled. âWe did. We really did.â
âIt's okay. I can teach you to be as fashionable as me. But it will take time.â
Christina snorted from across the room. âFantastic. I've always wanted to be a fashionista. Thank god we've got Niall now.â
A voice of disdain came from the doorway that lead to the back office. âIf those are fashion I might throw up a little bit.â
Niall took a deep breath as he watched Zayn pull a stack of papers from beneath the counter. He leaned forward so that he caught Zaynâs eye. âDon't worry man. You can borrow them anytime you want. Just as long as you wash off the pretentiousness when you're done wearing them.â
Christina laughed loudly while Lauren's eyes went wide. She looked from Zayn to Niall, wondering what exactly was going to happen next. Luckily, Zayn only rolled his eyes and turned back to the office. âI'll be in the back if anyone needs me.â
Christina called from the very front, âNo one will!â Then laughed when her proclamation was punctuated by the door slamming.
Louis walked in a moment later, signaling the start of the morning rush. Christina made it back to the counter just as Lauren finished filling his travel mug.
âWhere's Liam?â She asked, tying an apron around her waist and pulling a muffin from the glass case. She put it in a brown paper bag and slide it across the counter to Louis who grabbed it and smiled.
âIs this what I think it is?â He asked as he tucked it into his worn leather satchel.
âIf banana chocolate chip muffin is what you're thinking, then, yes.â
âSweet! Better give me one for your brother too. He had to be at school early for a meeting and heâll murder me if I don't bring him one of these.â Louis tucked the second paper bag into his bag and took a sip of his coffee.
Niall watched the scene unfold and wondered how on earth he was going to keep all these people straight. It seemed Christina also had a brother who worked with Louis. He had to make sure and remember to ask Harry the back story on this random assortment of friends, maybe even start a mental inventory.
Louisâ voice brought him back to the present. âYa know, the jorts are starting to grow on me. What do you think Lauren? Should I get a pair?â
Lauren smiled fondly at him, blushing a tiny bit at being singled out, but she quickly hid it behind a mask of serious contemplation. âThat's a tough one, Tomlinson. Niall's already offered them to Zayn but I'm sure you could take them for a test run if you ask nicely.â
Louis echoed Christinaâs earlier outburst of amusement at the thought of Niall offering Zayn his shorts. âI would've paid good money to see his face after that one.â He turned to Niall. âCross between a sneer and a look of complete and utter boredom?â
Niall nodded. âYup. That pretty much describes it.â
Louis screwed the lid of his travel mug back on and clapped Niall on the shoulder. âNiall, you're my kinda guy. Come by the house after school today and I'll show you the room and you can start moving your stuff in.â
Niallâs eyes shot up in surprise as his face broke into a grin. âReally? You're sure?â
âOf course. Harry vouched for you. Any friend of his is a friend of mine. I'll see you later on. Gotta go. Major test today. Time to torture my poor innocent hellions.â He nodded at the counter and then noticing Christinaâs back turned, shot Lauren a quick wink. âLadiesâŚâ
Christina turned around, took one look at her friendâs pink face then at the retreating back headed out the door and grinned. âI'm not sure you could look any more heart eyes than you do right now. Something you'd like to share with the class, Ms. McLeod?â
Harry appeared from nowhere, causing Niall to startle when he spoke. He looked pointedly at Lauren, smiling. âThere is no remedy for love but to love more.â
Lauren flushed red and made herself busy cleaning up an imaginary spill on the counter, but her head jerked up when she heard her name being called.
Louis stood in the doorway, looking like a modern day Peter Pan with his shaggy brown fringe hanging in his face. âDon't forget that you promised to help me with the kids soccer team I'm coaching. First meeting is tomorrow. See you guys later.â
Lauren glared at Christina just as she opened her mouth to speak and she promptly shut it again letting out only a small giggle.
Niall left shortly after, the sounds of Christina's gentle taunts following him out the door. He spent the day wandering the city and getting to know his new home. He drove through downtown, past the Ryman, his heart beating faster the more he thought about the giant move he had made all on a whim. This was his dream and he was going to make it happen, come hell or high water. That night as he sat in his new bedroom, listening to the sounds of his new roommate as he cooked in the kitchen, Niall felt that same little pang of homesickness he'd felt earlier. He missed his old bed in the room he'd grown up in, the walls covered in posters of his childhood heroes. He missed the noise of his mother in the kitchen, her voice as she sang along with the radio. He even missed his two little sisters barging into his room without even knocking. Niall laughed to himself. He never thought he'd miss that. With the thought of their small sweet faces in his mind, he pulled his phone out and within seconds there were those same sweet faces right in front of him, squealing with delight.
âNiall!â They both yelled, causing his speaker to crackle. âWe miss you! Tell us everything! Are you famous yet? Have you met anyone famous yet? What's it like?â
Niall chuckled to himself, shaking his head and thinking, some things never change.
Next time on..
A/N: Weâd love to hear your thoughts! Let us know what you think so far! We hope you enjoyed part three! Happy Reading! *Christina & Lauren
What happens when you take a small town guy, move him to the big city and toss him into an eclectic mix of long time friends?
Niall Horan is about to find out.
Welcome to Rhythm and Brews, a place where the coffee is delicious, the baristas are sassy and sweet, and the owner, Harry Styles, knows everyoneâs name.Â
Come on in and sit for a few, enjoy a drink and have a laugh. You are guaranteed to see more than one familiar face. Just try not to trip over the grown man meditating in the middle of the floor, heâs also the owner.Â
