round 18 - team canon - I said I bet you look good on the dance floor
Title: I said I bet you look good on the dance floor
Pairing: OT5
Rating: G
Word Count: 4,476
Warning(s): None
Summary: On the set of the One Thing Music Video soot, Louis (and Zayn) get up to shenanigans.
A/N: Title from the Artic Monkeys.
“I said that I bet you look good on the dance floor.
I don’t know if you are looking for romance or…
Don’t know what you’re looking for.
Well I bet you look good on the dance floor.”
Harry wanted to throw his phone across the room, breaking the alarm function. It was such an early start to the day. Why did they have to film the whole video in one day? Surely other artists have taken more than one day to film a music video right? Harry stared at the window of his room. It was still dark out even. At least he did not have to make himself look presentable - there was someone on set that would be doing that. Harry tucked his head under the fluffy white covers of the duvet, warming his nose up. His alarm kept going; making a deal with himself - when the song is over, get out of bed.
The song ended faster than was fair. Harry, defeated, kicked the covers off and dragged himself to the bathroom to take a hot shower. After a probably too hot and too long of shower, Harry was dressed, hair dry and all bundled up. Waiting outside his flat in the complex with Liam for the van to take them to set,
“Of course today had to be extra cold.” Harry complained.
“It’s the end of November Harry, what do you expect?” Liam responded.
Harry just looked at Liam, no real answer. Liam must be equally as annoyed by the early hour and cold in his bones. Niall appeared next to Harry, his typical chipper and loud self,
“D’you reckon there will be a good spread for breakfast?” Naill asked curiously.
Both Liam and Harry glanced at Niall and shrugged. Niall shrugged as well and turned his attention to his feet, poking at a puddle with the toe of his shoe. Louis dragged his feet across the slick ground, announcing himself. Liam turned around and smiled at Louis,
“Morning.” Liam smiled brightly.
“Mmmmmorn…ing.” Louis dragged out in a groggy voice.
They all stood in silence, randomly checking their phones for the time.
“I’m impressed that we are early.” Liam shared.
“Don’t say that yet mate, we are still waiting on Zayn.” Louis pointed out.
“I am being optimistic” Liam said softly.
The sun was finally starting to rise. Harry squinted at the horizon not sure how much he likes the sun making an appearance now. The sound of a lighter being flicked sounded from behind them. No one bothered to turn around to investigate the sound. It’s Zayn. Who else would light a fag this early in the morning?
“Ha! All are on time!” Liam sung happily.
Louis rolled his eyes.
+++
Harry was not sure how Louis had so much energy today considering he had kept them all up rather late last night with his nonsense and having such an early wake-up call. Harry did not mind waking up early, it was actually becoming a habit for him now that he found that he enjoys going for early morning jogs. But having not had much sleep and having to get up early made Louis’ energetic, buzzing energy tiring and even annoying at points. Harry made a pointless bet with himself about which one of them would snap first at Louis today. Harry had a tie between Zayn and Liam. Somehow, Louis managed to make it all the way through the first shot of the video without making anyone snap.
Harry actually found the stair scene to be more fun to shoot than he was anticipating. There was one instances where Harry came close because he was still not fully awake and the cold was really bothering him. During a little break, someone brought out some top hats, umbrellas and fake mustaches for them to play with. Louis decided to rope Harry into a game of trying to flip the top hat up and onto his head. Needless to say after about ten attempts Harry got bored of standing in one spot without moving - complaining that his fingers were going numb from the cold.
“Just give up already.” Harry said lazily.
“No. I will get this.” Louis said as he pressed his tongue out a tiny bit in concentration moving to flip the hat onto Harry’s head again.
Harry moved to the side causing the hat to flop onto the ground.
“C’mon Harry! That probably would have been the one!” Louis said louder than needed.
Zayn came running up wearing sunglasses and fake mustache, slamming his body into the side of Harry and wrapping his arms around him tightly not allowing Harry to move at all.
“I got ‘em Lou. Go. Do it now. I’ll hold him still.” Zayn said excitedly.
Louis laughed in a highly amused way as he scooped up the top hat from the ground. It was pointless to struggle in Zayn’s arms. Zayn was surprisingly strong and his embrace was tight and very secure.
“Excellent.” Louis remarked.
Dusting the hat off first, Louis flipped the hat up again and - thankfully Harry thought - managed to land it right on his head perfectly.
“SEE! I got it” Louis announced triumphantly.
Louis pulled Harry from Zayn’s arms and hugged Harry tightly,
“That was not so bad now was it?” Louis said as he nuzzled into Harry’s hair.
Harry just hummed in acknowledgement of Louis’ words and wiggled away from him sat with Liam quietly, waiting for filming to pick up again.
“It’s going to be a long day if he is this wired the whole time.” Liam commented.
Harry just smiled affectionately as he watched Zayn and Louis bombard Niall, stuffing the top hat onto his head and trying to start something playfully with him.
“Yes.” Harry agreed warmly.
+++
Who’s ever idea it was to give Louis giant bouncy balls is an idiot. Zayn was also the first one to snap at Louis. Louis was sitting on one of the giant yellow bouncy balls, trying to balance with his feet off the ground. Their stylist kept yelling at Louis to stop doing that for fear of him rolling off the ball and messing up his clothes with grass stains, dirt or generally anything that would be cause her stress. Harry knew that it started out as genuine fun for Louis but then their stylist had to go and add an element of risk and rebellion to it - all harmless fun was off now. Louis would inevitably push it to the limit now. Liam kicked a silver bouncy ball in Louis’ direction. Luckily (or maybe not so luckily for Zayn) Louis caught the ball above his head.
It all happened faster than Harry could comprehend. Harry spotted the little white car as soon as it was brought out and made a b-line for it knowing he wanted to try and drive it. Zayn followed him over to it and helped him out by pushing him to get him going. Harry did not stop to actually think about his adult weight causing the car to pick up some serious velocity on a downward decline. It was a disaster waiting to happen. Harry started rolling faster than Zayn could keep up with. Harry felt Zayn’s hands slip from his shoulders, but could still hear him running behind him, giggling.
“You’re gunna get fucked for this!” Zayn said through hard puffs of his lungs while still running and laughing.
“Oh shit!” Harry let slip out as he drove over a bump in the grass causing him to bounce up off the back of the little seat.
Harry knew that he was going to be flying passed Louis, Liam and Niall any second. Just hoped that they could see… or hear him coming. Zayn was still running along behind him, yelling uncontrollably through his laughter. And then it happened right as Harry blew passed Louis surrounded by the giant bouncy balls. Louis went to kick the silver one to Liam and Niall across the field just a little ways over. Louis kicked the ball right into Zayn’s face completely taking him out. The ball basically body checked Zayn. Louis ran over to Zayn laughing through worried and apologetic words. Liam and Niall also ran over frantically, withholding the laughter for the moment.
Harry had never been more thankful for an incline of a hill in his life. Finally, the little white car slowed down enough for him to hop out and go running back over to Zayn and the other guys.
“Oh my god! Are you okay?!” Louis asked loudly.
Squatting down next to him, Louis looked up at Liam. Zayn said nothing for a moment, still shocked. Liam squatted down next to Zayn.
“Are you alright?” Liam asked softly.
Zayn sat up slowly, holding his hand against the side of his cheek.
“Yeah… m’fine. But what the hell man?” Zayn looked at Louis.
Louis shrugged half-heartedly, the concern all over his face.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for that to happen. You just came out of nowhere…” Louis said breathily.
Zayn shook his head, a smile threatening the corners of his mouth.
“Remind me never to play football against you ever again if you can kick like that.” Zayn said, letting the smile appear now.
Liam stood up, shaking his head and letting a relived smile replace the worry. Niall spun around laughing now. Louis stood up, pulling Zayn up with him, a red, slightly raised welt now starting to appear on the side of Zayn’s face. Harry glanced over at their stylist who was staring them down now. Harry smiled at her and gave her two thumbs up; she shook her head and pointed at him as a warning.
+++
Harry was not sure how Louis and Zayn had talked Niall and himself into this plan. They had been moved to the next shot of the video - this quaint little park that had a massive water fountain that would pop on when someone walked by the sensor a little ways away. When on, it looked like one of those glass orbs that had the colored lights on the inside that would respond to your touch, sometimes shocking you. There was also this area where a whole bunch of yellow poles stood. It was almost like a maze really. Louis and Zayn did not even mention what the winner got before Harry and Niall both agreed to play along. It was a race through the yellow pole field and then onto the water fountain - the first one that jumps up on to the giant cement ball water fixture wins.
“This is a really bad idea…” Liam voiced as we watched Louis and Zayn clutch to one another excitedly.
“Nah… it’s not. What’s the worst that could happen? It’s just a bit of running around…” Louis said surprisingly calm without taking his eyes off of Harry and Niall swinging around the yellow poles laughing lightly about something between them.
Zayn smiled at Liam reassuringly. Liam shook his head slowly knowing that no matter what he said Louis and Zayn would not stop what they were up too. Not with the wickedly mischievous smiles on their faces and determined look in their eyes. Zayn had his arm resting on Louis’ shoulder - both of them leaning against one another.
“HARRY! NIALL!” Louis screamed randomly.
Both Harry and Niall turned their attention them quickly and started to make their way over to them. Harry and Niall stopped in front of Louis and Zayn, expectantly waiting to be told how the race would go down.
“Just waiting for some of them to kip off to lunch.” Louis said casually, motioning to where most of the crew is stationed.
Louis clapped his hands and smiled wide at Harry and Niall while waiting.
“Okay. Here is how this is going to go. See the yellow pole farm? You have to run through that, down the few steps to the fountain and the first one to climb atop the cement call over there is the winner.” Louis finished brightly.
“That’s it?” Niall asked, one eye brow cocked up.
“That’s it.” Louis said confidently.
Harry just looked from Louis, Zayn and Liam, slowly - reading them. Zayn looked back over to the crew, noticing that there was hardly anyone left out there watching them now.
“Okay, you two ready?” Zayn asked enthusiastically.
“Yeah. Sure!” Niall said leaning into the huddle.
Harry said nothing, just nodded with an apprehensive look on his face. Liam said nothing, just sulked away to sit down and watch the circus. Louis and Zayn took Harry and Niall by the shoulders and positioned them side by side then stood to the side with their arms out in front of Harry and Niall.
“Ready. Steady. GO!” Louis barked at them.
Niall took off excitedly reaching the yellow pole field first and waving through it while laughing and occasionally looking back to see where Harry was at. Harry kept running, not actually trying to beat Niall at this point but just going along with it still.
“Those long legs are not good for anything!” Niall screamed back at Harry.
That is all it took to kick Harry into gear. He was not going to let Niall win now - except Niall had a large lead on Harry and no matter how hard Harry tried to pick up his pace he would probably not beat Niall to the fountain. Harry looked to his side seeing Zayn and Louis running along the outside of the yellow pole field to the fountain. And then Zayn swerved off the course and Harry could no longer see him. Harry could hear Niall laughing loudly now as he emerged out of the yellow pole field. Harry popped out of the pole field just in time to see Niall recklessly climbing up the cement ball and sitting on top of it. Niall pounded his chest with his fists, letting out a triumphant war-like cry.
And then it happened. The fountain burst to life. Streams of water were erupting up and out all around Niall. Harry instantly looked over at Louis who was clutching his sides laughing as Zayn skipped back over to him, also laughing while holding his stomach. Now it makes sense as to why Zayn disappeared. He went to toggle the sensor. Niall frantically threw himself off the now wet and spurting cement ball, running out of the water.
“You are such fuckers.” Niall said through a half smile.
Harry walked over to them with a smug smile on his face. He knew that something was up - there as more to this game than just a fun little race. Niall was still in good spirits though. Laughing and trying to shake and squeeze as much of the water off of himself that he could. Liam joined them a moment later, a smile on his face.
“Ah, it seems that the Paynester found this amusing after all.” Louis said matter-o-factly.
Liam shook his head, a soft chuckle falling out of his mouth despite himself.
“It was funny. But now you’re all wet…” Liam pointed out to Niall.
“Yes I am.” Niall said with pride. “I also won.” Niall said with a proud smile.
Harry said nothing, just smiled at them all.
“It’s a good thing they have a spare kit for each one of us.” Zayn said with a half-shrug.
“Thank goodness for that…” Harry said quietly.
+++
Harry knew that it was all in good fun. Most everything that Louis and Zayn did was all in good fun and never to actually hurt one of the others. But sometimes one of them or both of them would take it a little too far; and usually, it was Liam being pushed a little too far. It was finally lunch time - everyone was thankful because Niall was getting a little bit cranky and cranky and hungry Niall is not generally fun. Niall was the first one sitting at the table eating, unsurprisingly. Harry wandered over and sat down next to Niall; who did not even look up to acknowledge Harry’s arrival. Harry understands because food.
Harry hung his head, inhaling the warmth of the soup he picked out, poking at the bread on the half a sandwich he got as well. Niall ended up with two sandwiches and a large bag of crisps. Harry could not figure out why Niall did not pick something warm to eat considering he was rather soaked not more than fifteen minutes ago - he was finally taken back to wardrobe to be changed into his spare kit; as well as all of them getting a warning not to pull anything funny like that again. Louis and Zayn practically skipped over to the table and dropped into their seats with amused looks on their faces. Niall looked up finally, surveying the two arrivals.
“What?” Niall asked curiously.
Harry looked up from his soup. Sure enough, Louis and Zayn were up to something.
“Just wait.” Zayn said, turning in his seat to look over at Liam by the utensils area.
Harry followed his path of sight to spot Liam. Still not following, Harry turned his attention back to his own food with a lazy shrug. It was not long before Liam sunk into the open seat next to Harry with an annoyed sigh.
“You alright?” Louis asked with fake sincerity.
Liam looked up from his plate of pasta, his brows furrowed.
“All they had were spoons…” Liam said with no emotion.
Harry looked at Louis and then at Zayn, now aware that they were doing something to annoy Liam. Zayn and Louis did not move.
“That’s a real shame.” Zayn said gently.
“Why didn’t you get a sandwich then?” Louis asked.
Liam kept starring at his pasta.
“I wanted something warm…” Liam answered weakly.
Niall kept eating, just looking from person to person.
“I’m sorry mate.” Louis said through a suppressed giggle. “It’s a shame one of us don’t have a spare fork…” Louis said sympathetically.
Harry could tell that Liam was not in any mood to be playing this kind of game.
“Guess you are going to have to suck it up with a spoon or go pick something else out to eat.” Zayn said with a smirk on his face.
Liam poked at the side of his plate, pushing it a little bit on the table. Harry found that he was a little bit annoyed for Liam’s sake now. It was cold out and they did have an early wakeup call. Liam had also put up with a lot of their shenanigans that day without really trying to stop them - and now he just really wanted some pasta.
“I’m going to go find you a fork okay?” Harry said as he stood up from the table.
“Oh, that’s okay. Thanks though Haz.” Liam tried to stop Harry.
As Harry walked past the table, Louis caught his attention and turned in his seat, opening up his zip up hoodie exposing the two massive wads of forks stuffed into his inside pockets. Harry just stared at Louis with an ever so slightly amused-mixed-annoyed smile pulling at the corners of his mouth.
“You won’t find any forks anywhere.” Louis mouthed at Harry
Harry shook his head not all that amused. Realizing that it was going to be a lost cause to try and hunt down a fork if Louis had them all in his hoodie, Harry sat back down. Liam looked at him with a soft smile and grateful eyes. Harry smiled back, flicking his eyes at Louis quickly and then back at Liam. Liam nodded once, short and subtle.
“Louis, can I please have a fork?” Liam asked calmly.
Louis raised his eye brows, trying to look confused.
“What?” Louis asked.
Liam just stared at him.
“Give it up man.” Zayn said bumping his shoulder into Louis’.
Louis opened up his hoodie slowly, as if he was trying to seduce someone.
“How bad do you want it Leeyum?” Louis said slowly.
Liam’s cheeks blushed faintly.
“Please Louis… I would like to be able to eat now.” Liam stuck his hand out over the table.
Louis grabbed a hand full of forks and stuck them out in Liam’s direction. Liam leaned up and out of his seat slightly to grab one of the forks but Louis pulled his hand back, teasing Liam. Liam was really not having it. Sitting back down in his seat and picking up a single noodle off his plate and flung it at Louis’ face - it landed in Louis’ hair instead. Louis pulled his head back like he got slapped.
“Well look at that, you could have used your fingers to eat.” Louis said with a cheeky smile as he pulled the noodle out of his hair.
Harry held his sandwich in both hands, watching along with Niall.
“Can I please have a fork?” Liam tried again.
Louis wiggled the handful of forks around, smiling at Liam.
“I don’t want to have to launch this whole plate into your lap.” Liam said with a challenge.
“I doubt you would even lift the plate up.” Louis countered, one eye brow raised.
Liam slipped his hand under his plate and stood up slowly, eyeing Louis down. Liam positioned the plate in his hand in perfect launching position as he stepped back slightly.
“LIAM!” Paul yelled out. “PUT THE PLATE DOWN! AND LOUIS, GIVE HIM A FORK NOW.” Paul finished.
Liam sat down instantly, setting his plate down on the table and sulking while looking at Louis. Louis tossed the two handfuls of forks he had in his hoodie onto the table. Liam snatched one up happily and dug into his pasta.
“What a shame… a food fight would have been a lot of fun.” Zayn sighed.
“Maybe for all of you… I am already in my final kit of the shoot.” Niall said around a mouth full of food.
“Your other one would have been mostly dry by the time you needed to change back into it.” Louis offered.
Niall laughed while shaking his head. Harry looked at Liam and smiled at him. Liam nodded his head lifting a forkful of pasta in response.
+++
Harry laughed at himself for thinking that it was cold during the day. It was actually cold that night. Harry could tell that everyone was just done, ready for the filming to be done and just ready to go home and bundle up under a mound of blankets to warm up. Also, everyone iwas at their wits end with Louis today. He has managed to trick and prank everyone at least one time, if not more. Their poor stylist is pulling her hair out in anxiety for fear that another one of them will mess up their kit… again. Luckily though, Louis is starting to crash. Completely unexpected but welcomed.
They were so close to being done. So very close. Harry took advantage of the brown couch - curling up in a ball and just snoozing a little bit in the down time in between shots. It was not long before Liam was laying on top of him and nuzzling into his neck with his soft giggle.
“Li… what?” Harry hummed, not opening his eyes.
“You’re warm Haz. Warm me up.” Liam pressed one of his hands into Harry’s chest and his other hand up under Harry’s shirt in the back.
Harry jerked at the touch of Liam’s cold hand causing him to whine.
“Liam… nooooo.” Harry whined, squirming under Liam’s body.
“Yesssss…” Liam chimes as he wiggles on top of Harry.
Harry started to laughing, trying to catch Liam’s wrists in his hands. Liam can’t stop the sleepy laughter now, trying to keep his wrists away from Harry. Harry managed to turn over onto his back under Liam - Liam was straddling Harry now, legs pressed tightly to Harry’s hips.
“Well that’s one way to stay warm.” Louis said slowly, leaning against the back of the couch.
Liam stopped moving his arms, dropping them to his sides. Harry turned his attention to Louis.
“Are you cold BooBear?” Harry purred with heavy eyes.
Louis pressed his lips together at the use of that nickname.
“No.” Louis answered short.
Harry’s eyes flicked to Liam’s.
“You are too. In your thin white shirt with no coat. I bet you wish you were in on these warm cuddles.” Harry challenged.
“You are wrong Harold.” Louis said defensively.
Harry sat up, knocking Liam backwards onto the other end of the couch. Harry leaned over the back of the couch grabbing Louis by the braces and yanking him forward. Louis was caught off guard, causing him to trip forward and fall over the couch. Liam set his hands on Louis’ shoulders and pulled him all the way over. Louis was squished between the two of them now, looking up at Liam, shocked. Harry wrapped his arms around Louis chest and pulled him back against his own chest - pressing his lips to Louis’ neck and biting gently. Liam dropped down, wrapping his arms around Louis’ waist tightly, snuggling into Louis’ tummy.
Zayn and Niall bounced up jumping onto the back of the couch.
“What do we have here?” Zayn asked, cocking one eye brow
“Cuddles. Warm Cuddles.” Harry said with a smirk.
“And why were we not invited to this?” Niall and Zayn asked in unison.
Zayn slid over the back of the couch, landing right on Louis, causing him to exhale hard. Zayn smiled down at Louis, biting the tip of his nose.
“This is not fair. I have no use of my hands right now because of your fat asses holding me down.” Louis said far too calm.
Liam adjusted so his head was not being crushed by Zayn’s body - wrapping his arms around Zayn’s wait now, resting his head on Zayn’s lower back and slipping his cold fingers under Louis’ shirt this time. Louis let out an obnoxious yodel in Zayn’s face. Niall Jumped onto Liam’s back, crushing them all down now.
“I can’t feel my legs.” Harry commented .
“Your legs?!” Louis puffed out. “MY BODY!” Louis said dramatically.
“Ah, revenge cuddles are the worst huh Lou?” Zayn hummed as he nuzzled into Louis neck.
Harry smiled and wiggled annoyingly behind Louis and nuzzled into the other side of Louis’ neck. Niall managed to get his hand on Louis’ head and ruffled his hair hard, making a mess on purpose. Liam pressed his hands flat against Louis’ side now. Louis squirmed as much as he was able to under the pile of his boys. All five of them settled into one another, warming one another up happily.
“Have you lads learned nothing from me? This is not how you dish out revenge.” Louis said endearingly.
“Ah shut it Louis and enjoy the warmth.” Niall chuckled.
Pairing: OT5
Rating: G
Word Count: 4,476
Warning(s): None
Summary: On the set of the One Thing Music Video soot, Louis (and Zayn) get up to shenanigans.
A/N: Title from the Artic Monkeys.
“I said that I bet you look good on the dance floor.
I don’t know if you are looking for romance or…
Don’t know what you’re looking for.
Well I bet you look good on the dance floor.”
Harry wanted to throw his phone across the room, breaking the alarm function. It was such an early start to the day. Why did they have to film the whole video in one day? Surely other artists have taken more than one day to film a music video right? Harry stared at the window of his room. It was still dark out even. At least he did not have to make himself look presentable - there was someone on set that would be doing that. Harry tucked his head under the fluffy white covers of the duvet, warming his nose up. His alarm kept going; making a deal with himself - when the song is over, get out of bed.
The song ended faster than was fair. Harry, defeated, kicked the covers off and dragged himself to the bathroom to take a hot shower. After a probably too hot and too long of shower, Harry was dressed, hair dry and all bundled up. Waiting outside his flat in the complex with Liam for the van to take them to set,
“Of course today had to be extra cold.” Harry complained.
“It’s the end of November Harry, what do you expect?” Liam responded.
Harry just looked at Liam, no real answer. Liam must be equally as annoyed by the early hour and cold in his bones. Niall appeared next to Harry, his typical chipper and loud self,
“D’you reckon there will be a good spread for breakfast?” Naill asked curiously.
Both Liam and Harry glanced at Niall and shrugged. Niall shrugged as well and turned his attention to his feet, poking at a puddle with the toe of his shoe. Louis dragged his feet across the slick ground, announcing himself. Liam turned around and smiled at Louis,
“Morning.” Liam smiled brightly.
“Mmmmmorn…ing.” Louis dragged out in a groggy voice.
They all stood in silence, randomly checking their phones for the time.
“I’m impressed that we are early.” Liam shared.
“Don’t say that yet mate, we are still waiting on Zayn.” Louis pointed out.
“I am being optimistic” Liam said softly.
The sun was finally starting to rise. Harry squinted at the horizon not sure how much he likes the sun making an appearance now. The sound of a lighter being flicked sounded from behind them. No one bothered to turn around to investigate the sound. It’s Zayn. Who else would light a fag this early in the morning?
“Ha! All are on time!” Liam sung happily.
Louis rolled his eyes.
+++
Harry was not sure how Louis had so much energy today considering he had kept them all up rather late last night with his nonsense and having such an early wake-up call. Harry did not mind waking up early, it was actually becoming a habit for him now that he found that he enjoys going for early morning jogs. But having not had much sleep and having to get up early made Louis’ energetic, buzzing energy tiring and even annoying at points. Harry made a pointless bet with himself about which one of them would snap first at Louis today. Harry had a tie between Zayn and Liam. Somehow, Louis managed to make it all the way through the first shot of the video without making anyone snap.
Harry actually found the stair scene to be more fun to shoot than he was anticipating. There was one instances where Harry came close because he was still not fully awake and the cold was really bothering him. During a little break, someone brought out some top hats, umbrellas and fake mustaches for them to play with. Louis decided to rope Harry into a game of trying to flip the top hat up and onto his head. Needless to say after about ten attempts Harry got bored of standing in one spot without moving - complaining that his fingers were going numb from the cold.
“Just give up already.” Harry said lazily.
“No. I will get this.” Louis said as he pressed his tongue out a tiny bit in concentration moving to flip the hat onto Harry’s head again.
Harry moved to the side causing the hat to flop onto the ground.
“C’mon Harry! That probably would have been the one!” Louis said louder than needed.
Zayn came running up wearing sunglasses and fake mustache, slamming his body into the side of Harry and wrapping his arms around him tightly not allowing Harry to move at all.
“I got ‘em Lou. Go. Do it now. I’ll hold him still.” Zayn said excitedly.
Louis laughed in a highly amused way as he scooped up the top hat from the ground. It was pointless to struggle in Zayn’s arms. Zayn was surprisingly strong and his embrace was tight and very secure.
“Excellent.” Louis remarked.
Dusting the hat off first, Louis flipped the hat up again and - thankfully Harry thought - managed to land it right on his head perfectly.
“SEE! I got it” Louis announced triumphantly.
Louis pulled Harry from Zayn’s arms and hugged Harry tightly,
“That was not so bad now was it?” Louis said as he nuzzled into Harry’s hair.
Harry just hummed in acknowledgement of Louis’ words and wiggled away from him sat with Liam quietly, waiting for filming to pick up again.
“It’s going to be a long day if he is this wired the whole time.” Liam commented.
Harry just smiled affectionately as he watched Zayn and Louis bombard Niall, stuffing the top hat onto his head and trying to start something playfully with him.
“Yes.” Harry agreed warmly.
+++
Who’s ever idea it was to give Louis giant bouncy balls is an idiot. Zayn was also the first one to snap at Louis. Louis was sitting on one of the giant yellow bouncy balls, trying to balance with his feet off the ground. Their stylist kept yelling at Louis to stop doing that for fear of him rolling off the ball and messing up his clothes with grass stains, dirt or generally anything that would be cause her stress. Harry knew that it started out as genuine fun for Louis but then their stylist had to go and add an element of risk and rebellion to it - all harmless fun was off now. Louis would inevitably push it to the limit now. Liam kicked a silver bouncy ball in Louis’ direction. Luckily (or maybe not so luckily for Zayn) Louis caught the ball above his head.
It all happened faster than Harry could comprehend. Harry spotted the little white car as soon as it was brought out and made a b-line for it knowing he wanted to try and drive it. Zayn followed him over to it and helped him out by pushing him to get him going. Harry did not stop to actually think about his adult weight causing the car to pick up some serious velocity on a downward decline. It was a disaster waiting to happen. Harry started rolling faster than Zayn could keep up with. Harry felt Zayn’s hands slip from his shoulders, but could still hear him running behind him, giggling.
“You’re gunna get fucked for this!” Zayn said through hard puffs of his lungs while still running and laughing.
“Oh shit!” Harry let slip out as he drove over a bump in the grass causing him to bounce up off the back of the little seat.
Harry knew that he was going to be flying passed Louis, Liam and Niall any second. Just hoped that they could see… or hear him coming. Zayn was still running along behind him, yelling uncontrollably through his laughter. And then it happened right as Harry blew passed Louis surrounded by the giant bouncy balls. Louis went to kick the silver one to Liam and Niall across the field just a little ways over. Louis kicked the ball right into Zayn’s face completely taking him out. The ball basically body checked Zayn. Louis ran over to Zayn laughing through worried and apologetic words. Liam and Niall also ran over frantically, withholding the laughter for the moment.
Harry had never been more thankful for an incline of a hill in his life. Finally, the little white car slowed down enough for him to hop out and go running back over to Zayn and the other guys.
“Oh my god! Are you okay?!” Louis asked loudly.
Squatting down next to him, Louis looked up at Liam. Zayn said nothing for a moment, still shocked. Liam squatted down next to Zayn.
“Are you alright?” Liam asked softly.
Zayn sat up slowly, holding his hand against the side of his cheek.
“Yeah… m’fine. But what the hell man?” Zayn looked at Louis.
Louis shrugged half-heartedly, the concern all over his face.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for that to happen. You just came out of nowhere…” Louis said breathily.
Zayn shook his head, a smile threatening the corners of his mouth.
“Remind me never to play football against you ever again if you can kick like that.” Zayn said, letting the smile appear now.
Liam stood up, shaking his head and letting a relived smile replace the worry. Niall spun around laughing now. Louis stood up, pulling Zayn up with him, a red, slightly raised welt now starting to appear on the side of Zayn’s face. Harry glanced over at their stylist who was staring them down now. Harry smiled at her and gave her two thumbs up; she shook her head and pointed at him as a warning.
+++
Harry was not sure how Louis and Zayn had talked Niall and himself into this plan. They had been moved to the next shot of the video - this quaint little park that had a massive water fountain that would pop on when someone walked by the sensor a little ways away. When on, it looked like one of those glass orbs that had the colored lights on the inside that would respond to your touch, sometimes shocking you. There was also this area where a whole bunch of yellow poles stood. It was almost like a maze really. Louis and Zayn did not even mention what the winner got before Harry and Niall both agreed to play along. It was a race through the yellow pole field and then onto the water fountain - the first one that jumps up on to the giant cement ball water fixture wins.
“This is a really bad idea…” Liam voiced as we watched Louis and Zayn clutch to one another excitedly.
“Nah… it’s not. What’s the worst that could happen? It’s just a bit of running around…” Louis said surprisingly calm without taking his eyes off of Harry and Niall swinging around the yellow poles laughing lightly about something between them.
Zayn smiled at Liam reassuringly. Liam shook his head slowly knowing that no matter what he said Louis and Zayn would not stop what they were up too. Not with the wickedly mischievous smiles on their faces and determined look in their eyes. Zayn had his arm resting on Louis’ shoulder - both of them leaning against one another.
“HARRY! NIALL!” Louis screamed randomly.
Both Harry and Niall turned their attention them quickly and started to make their way over to them. Harry and Niall stopped in front of Louis and Zayn, expectantly waiting to be told how the race would go down.
“Just waiting for some of them to kip off to lunch.” Louis said casually, motioning to where most of the crew is stationed.
Louis clapped his hands and smiled wide at Harry and Niall while waiting.
“Okay. Here is how this is going to go. See the yellow pole farm? You have to run through that, down the few steps to the fountain and the first one to climb atop the cement call over there is the winner.” Louis finished brightly.
“That’s it?” Niall asked, one eye brow cocked up.
“That’s it.” Louis said confidently.
Harry just looked from Louis, Zayn and Liam, slowly - reading them. Zayn looked back over to the crew, noticing that there was hardly anyone left out there watching them now.
“Okay, you two ready?” Zayn asked enthusiastically.
“Yeah. Sure!” Niall said leaning into the huddle.
Harry said nothing, just nodded with an apprehensive look on his face. Liam said nothing, just sulked away to sit down and watch the circus. Louis and Zayn took Harry and Niall by the shoulders and positioned them side by side then stood to the side with their arms out in front of Harry and Niall.
“Ready. Steady. GO!” Louis barked at them.
Niall took off excitedly reaching the yellow pole field first and waving through it while laughing and occasionally looking back to see where Harry was at. Harry kept running, not actually trying to beat Niall at this point but just going along with it still.
“Those long legs are not good for anything!” Niall screamed back at Harry.
That is all it took to kick Harry into gear. He was not going to let Niall win now - except Niall had a large lead on Harry and no matter how hard Harry tried to pick up his pace he would probably not beat Niall to the fountain. Harry looked to his side seeing Zayn and Louis running along the outside of the yellow pole field to the fountain. And then Zayn swerved off the course and Harry could no longer see him. Harry could hear Niall laughing loudly now as he emerged out of the yellow pole field. Harry popped out of the pole field just in time to see Niall recklessly climbing up the cement ball and sitting on top of it. Niall pounded his chest with his fists, letting out a triumphant war-like cry.
And then it happened. The fountain burst to life. Streams of water were erupting up and out all around Niall. Harry instantly looked over at Louis who was clutching his sides laughing as Zayn skipped back over to him, also laughing while holding his stomach. Now it makes sense as to why Zayn disappeared. He went to toggle the sensor. Niall frantically threw himself off the now wet and spurting cement ball, running out of the water.
“You are such fuckers.” Niall said through a half smile.
Harry walked over to them with a smug smile on his face. He knew that something was up - there as more to this game than just a fun little race. Niall was still in good spirits though. Laughing and trying to shake and squeeze as much of the water off of himself that he could. Liam joined them a moment later, a smile on his face.
“Ah, it seems that the Paynester found this amusing after all.” Louis said matter-o-factly.
Liam shook his head, a soft chuckle falling out of his mouth despite himself.
“It was funny. But now you’re all wet…” Liam pointed out to Niall.
“Yes I am.” Niall said with pride. “I also won.” Niall said with a proud smile.
Harry said nothing, just smiled at them all.
“It’s a good thing they have a spare kit for each one of us.” Zayn said with a half-shrug.
“Thank goodness for that…” Harry said quietly.
+++
Harry knew that it was all in good fun. Most everything that Louis and Zayn did was all in good fun and never to actually hurt one of the others. But sometimes one of them or both of them would take it a little too far; and usually, it was Liam being pushed a little too far. It was finally lunch time - everyone was thankful because Niall was getting a little bit cranky and cranky and hungry Niall is not generally fun. Niall was the first one sitting at the table eating, unsurprisingly. Harry wandered over and sat down next to Niall; who did not even look up to acknowledge Harry’s arrival. Harry understands because food.
Harry hung his head, inhaling the warmth of the soup he picked out, poking at the bread on the half a sandwich he got as well. Niall ended up with two sandwiches and a large bag of crisps. Harry could not figure out why Niall did not pick something warm to eat considering he was rather soaked not more than fifteen minutes ago - he was finally taken back to wardrobe to be changed into his spare kit; as well as all of them getting a warning not to pull anything funny like that again. Louis and Zayn practically skipped over to the table and dropped into their seats with amused looks on their faces. Niall looked up finally, surveying the two arrivals.
“What?” Niall asked curiously.
Harry looked up from his soup. Sure enough, Louis and Zayn were up to something.
“Just wait.” Zayn said, turning in his seat to look over at Liam by the utensils area.
Harry followed his path of sight to spot Liam. Still not following, Harry turned his attention back to his own food with a lazy shrug. It was not long before Liam sunk into the open seat next to Harry with an annoyed sigh.
“You alright?” Louis asked with fake sincerity.
Liam looked up from his plate of pasta, his brows furrowed.
“All they had were spoons…” Liam said with no emotion.
Harry looked at Louis and then at Zayn, now aware that they were doing something to annoy Liam. Zayn and Louis did not move.
“That’s a real shame.” Zayn said gently.
“Why didn’t you get a sandwich then?” Louis asked.
Liam kept starring at his pasta.
“I wanted something warm…” Liam answered weakly.
Niall kept eating, just looking from person to person.
“I’m sorry mate.” Louis said through a suppressed giggle. “It’s a shame one of us don’t have a spare fork…” Louis said sympathetically.
Harry could tell that Liam was not in any mood to be playing this kind of game.
“Guess you are going to have to suck it up with a spoon or go pick something else out to eat.” Zayn said with a smirk on his face.
Liam poked at the side of his plate, pushing it a little bit on the table. Harry found that he was a little bit annoyed for Liam’s sake now. It was cold out and they did have an early wakeup call. Liam had also put up with a lot of their shenanigans that day without really trying to stop them - and now he just really wanted some pasta.
“I’m going to go find you a fork okay?” Harry said as he stood up from the table.
“Oh, that’s okay. Thanks though Haz.” Liam tried to stop Harry.
As Harry walked past the table, Louis caught his attention and turned in his seat, opening up his zip up hoodie exposing the two massive wads of forks stuffed into his inside pockets. Harry just stared at Louis with an ever so slightly amused-mixed-annoyed smile pulling at the corners of his mouth.
“You won’t find any forks anywhere.” Louis mouthed at Harry
Harry shook his head not all that amused. Realizing that it was going to be a lost cause to try and hunt down a fork if Louis had them all in his hoodie, Harry sat back down. Liam looked at him with a soft smile and grateful eyes. Harry smiled back, flicking his eyes at Louis quickly and then back at Liam. Liam nodded once, short and subtle.
“Louis, can I please have a fork?” Liam asked calmly.
Louis raised his eye brows, trying to look confused.
“What?” Louis asked.
Liam just stared at him.
“Give it up man.” Zayn said bumping his shoulder into Louis’.
Louis opened up his hoodie slowly, as if he was trying to seduce someone.
“How bad do you want it Leeyum?” Louis said slowly.
Liam’s cheeks blushed faintly.
“Please Louis… I would like to be able to eat now.” Liam stuck his hand out over the table.
Louis grabbed a hand full of forks and stuck them out in Liam’s direction. Liam leaned up and out of his seat slightly to grab one of the forks but Louis pulled his hand back, teasing Liam. Liam was really not having it. Sitting back down in his seat and picking up a single noodle off his plate and flung it at Louis’ face - it landed in Louis’ hair instead. Louis pulled his head back like he got slapped.
“Well look at that, you could have used your fingers to eat.” Louis said with a cheeky smile as he pulled the noodle out of his hair.
Harry held his sandwich in both hands, watching along with Niall.
“Can I please have a fork?” Liam tried again.
Louis wiggled the handful of forks around, smiling at Liam.
“I don’t want to have to launch this whole plate into your lap.” Liam said with a challenge.
“I doubt you would even lift the plate up.” Louis countered, one eye brow raised.
Liam slipped his hand under his plate and stood up slowly, eyeing Louis down. Liam positioned the plate in his hand in perfect launching position as he stepped back slightly.
“LIAM!” Paul yelled out. “PUT THE PLATE DOWN! AND LOUIS, GIVE HIM A FORK NOW.” Paul finished.
Liam sat down instantly, setting his plate down on the table and sulking while looking at Louis. Louis tossed the two handfuls of forks he had in his hoodie onto the table. Liam snatched one up happily and dug into his pasta.
“What a shame… a food fight would have been a lot of fun.” Zayn sighed.
“Maybe for all of you… I am already in my final kit of the shoot.” Niall said around a mouth full of food.
“Your other one would have been mostly dry by the time you needed to change back into it.” Louis offered.
Niall laughed while shaking his head. Harry looked at Liam and smiled at him. Liam nodded his head lifting a forkful of pasta in response.
+++
Harry laughed at himself for thinking that it was cold during the day. It was actually cold that night. Harry could tell that everyone was just done, ready for the filming to be done and just ready to go home and bundle up under a mound of blankets to warm up. Also, everyone iwas at their wits end with Louis today. He has managed to trick and prank everyone at least one time, if not more. Their poor stylist is pulling her hair out in anxiety for fear that another one of them will mess up their kit… again. Luckily though, Louis is starting to crash. Completely unexpected but welcomed.
They were so close to being done. So very close. Harry took advantage of the brown couch - curling up in a ball and just snoozing a little bit in the down time in between shots. It was not long before Liam was laying on top of him and nuzzling into his neck with his soft giggle.
“Li… what?” Harry hummed, not opening his eyes.
“You’re warm Haz. Warm me up.” Liam pressed one of his hands into Harry’s chest and his other hand up under Harry’s shirt in the back.
Harry jerked at the touch of Liam’s cold hand causing him to whine.
“Liam… nooooo.” Harry whined, squirming under Liam’s body.
“Yesssss…” Liam chimes as he wiggles on top of Harry.
Harry started to laughing, trying to catch Liam’s wrists in his hands. Liam can’t stop the sleepy laughter now, trying to keep his wrists away from Harry. Harry managed to turn over onto his back under Liam - Liam was straddling Harry now, legs pressed tightly to Harry’s hips.
“Well that’s one way to stay warm.” Louis said slowly, leaning against the back of the couch.
Liam stopped moving his arms, dropping them to his sides. Harry turned his attention to Louis.
“Are you cold BooBear?” Harry purred with heavy eyes.
Louis pressed his lips together at the use of that nickname.
“No.” Louis answered short.
Harry’s eyes flicked to Liam’s.
“You are too. In your thin white shirt with no coat. I bet you wish you were in on these warm cuddles.” Harry challenged.
“You are wrong Harold.” Louis said defensively.
Harry sat up, knocking Liam backwards onto the other end of the couch. Harry leaned over the back of the couch grabbing Louis by the braces and yanking him forward. Louis was caught off guard, causing him to trip forward and fall over the couch. Liam set his hands on Louis’ shoulders and pulled him all the way over. Louis was squished between the two of them now, looking up at Liam, shocked. Harry wrapped his arms around Louis chest and pulled him back against his own chest - pressing his lips to Louis’ neck and biting gently. Liam dropped down, wrapping his arms around Louis’ waist tightly, snuggling into Louis’ tummy.
Zayn and Niall bounced up jumping onto the back of the couch.
“What do we have here?” Zayn asked, cocking one eye brow
“Cuddles. Warm Cuddles.” Harry said with a smirk.
“And why were we not invited to this?” Niall and Zayn asked in unison.
Zayn slid over the back of the couch, landing right on Louis, causing him to exhale hard. Zayn smiled down at Louis, biting the tip of his nose.
“This is not fair. I have no use of my hands right now because of your fat asses holding me down.” Louis said far too calm.
Liam adjusted so his head was not being crushed by Zayn’s body - wrapping his arms around Zayn’s wait now, resting his head on Zayn’s lower back and slipping his cold fingers under Louis’ shirt this time. Louis let out an obnoxious yodel in Zayn’s face. Niall Jumped onto Liam’s back, crushing them all down now.
“I can’t feel my legs.” Harry commented .
“Your legs?!” Louis puffed out. “MY BODY!” Louis said dramatically.
“Ah, revenge cuddles are the worst huh Lou?” Zayn hummed as he nuzzled into Louis neck.
Harry smiled and wiggled annoyingly behind Louis and nuzzled into the other side of Louis’ neck. Niall managed to get his hand on Louis’ head and ruffled his hair hard, making a mess on purpose. Liam pressed his hands flat against Louis’ side now. Louis squirmed as much as he was able to under the pile of his boys. All five of them settled into one another, warming one another up happily.
“Have you lads learned nothing from me? This is not how you dish out revenge.” Louis said endearingly.
“Ah shut it Louis and enjoy the warmth.” Niall chuckled.