Different 28 (Patreon)

Author's note: Hello everyone! I hope you are all doing well! I am so sorry that I missed posting this chapter on Tuesday. However, as promised here is it! I made sure to add more words to make up for the fact that it is late. currently working on the one shot!

word count: 3.2K  As Harry and Y/N stepped out of the car in front of the familiar brick house in Holmes Chapel, Y/N took a deep breath, trying to calm the nerves fluttering in her stomach. She had met Harry’s parents back in Chicago, and thankfully, the experience had gone well—they were warm, kind, and genuinely seemed to like her. His mother, Anne, had even complimented Y/N on her "charm and sweetness," and his stepfather, Robin, had taken a particular interest in her stories about growing up in the States. But meeting them on their home turf, with the holiday atmosphere and the full extent of Harry’s family around, felt like an entirely different challenge.

“They love you, you know,” Harry said softly as if sensing her nerves. He reached for her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze as they walked up the path toward the front door.

“I know. It’s just... different here, I guess,” Y/N admitted, smiling at him. “This is your home, and I just want to make a good impression again.”

“You already have,” Harry said firmly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Just be yourself. They’re excited to see you again and to have you here”

Before Y/N could respond, the front door opened to reveal Anne standing there with a bright smile on her face, arms open wide.

“Harry! Y/N! Welcome, welcome!” Anne greeted, her joy evident as she quickly enveloped Y/N in a warm hug, making Y/N feel instantly at ease.

“It’s so good to see you again, Anne,” Y/N replied, feeling the warmth of the family home wash over her. She was met with a hug from Robin next, whose familiar, fatherly presence put her further at ease.

“It’s great to have you both here,” Robin said, clapping Harry on the shoulder with a grin. “How was the drive?”

“Not too bad,” Harry responded, though Y/N could tell by his slight tension that the nerves were there for him too. He cared so much about how Y/N fit into his world, and she could see that this moment was as significant for him as it was for her.

As they made their way inside, Y/N took in the cozy atmosphere of Harry’s childhood home. The scent of pine and cinnamon filled the air, and the Christmas decorations, warm lighting, and soft music playing in the background gave the whole place a comforting holiday feel.

"You two must be starving," Anne said, guiding them toward the living room where a small buffet of snacks and drinks had been set out. "I've made some of your favorites, Harry."

Before they could sit down, Harry's sister, Gemma, strolled into the room. Y/N had only heard bits and pieces about her, and while Harry adored his sister, there was always an edge of protectiveness when it came to new people in his life. Gemma, a little older and known for her sharp wit and perceptiveness, was the one Y/N was slightly more anxious to meet properly.

“There they are,” Gemma said with a teasing smirk, her eyes darting between her brother and Y/N. “The infamous duo.”

Y/N chuckled nervously as Harry immediately pulled Gemma into a hug, muttering something under his breath that made her laugh out loud. Then Gemma turned to Y/N, her smile still playful, but her eyes a little sharper.

“So, this is the famous Y/N,” she said, holding out her hand. “I’ve heard quite a bit about you.”

Y/N smiled and shook her hand, trying not to read too much into her tone. “All good things, I hope.”

Gemma raised an eyebrow. “Of course, Harry would never shut up about how ‘lovely’ you are.”

Y/N blushed slightly but kept her posture calm. “I’ll try to live up to that then.”

Gemma chuckled, her demeanor easing as she nodded approvingly. “I’m sure you will.”

Harry slipped his arm around Y/N’s waist, and the slight tension she felt melted away as his family slowly began to chat and share stories about the last time they all gathered. The relaxed mood soon became infectious, and Y/N found herself laughing and smiling with Harry's parents and Gemma as if they had known each other for years.

The evening went smoothly, but Y/N couldn’t help but notice the subtle glances between Harry and Gemma. While Anne and Robin adored her, there was still something cautious about Gemma’s attitude. It wasn’t hostility—just curiosity and maybe a bit of that protective sibling skepticism. She clearly wasn’t ready to fully let her guard down.

As they sat around the fire that night, Anne passed Y/N a glass of wine and leaned in slightly. "We're so glad Harry has you in his life," she whispered with a smile. "You really do bring out the best in him."

Y/N’s heart swelled, but before she could reply, Gemma piped up with a grin. “So, Y/N, how’s the Christmas planning going? Harry mentioned something about you not being a big fan of holiday traditions?”

Y/N laughed lightly, glancing at Harry. “I wouldn’t say I’m not a fan, I just didn’t really grow up with the same kind of Christmas traditions that you all have here.”

“Oh?” Gemma raised her eyebrows, leaning in with genuine curiosity now. “What kind of traditions are we talking about?”

“Well, in my family, Christmas was always more... practical. My parents were usually away for work, so it was a pretty low-key affair,” Y/N explained, feeling a little vulnerable admitting this in front of Harry’s tight-knit family. “I guess that’s why I’m really looking forward to spending it here with all of you.”

Anne smiled warmly, and even Gemma’s expression softened a little. "Well, you're in for a treat then. Our Christmas Eve dinner alone is enough to convert anyone."

As the conversation continued, Y/N started to relax even more. Despite Gemma’s subtle tests and the new environment, she could feel Harry’s family accepting her into their world. It wasn’t perfect, and Gemma was clearly still reserving judgment, but the evening ended with Y/N feeling hopeful that she could truly be a part of Harry’s life—even here, in the heart of Holmes Chapel.

As they retired for the night, Harry pulled Y/N aside, his voice soft. “See? Told you they love you.”

Y/N smiled up at him, feeling more confident in their place together. "I think I survived... for now."

Harry laughed, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “I love you”.

Anne led Harry and Y/N up the narrow staircase, the sound of creaking wood beneath their feet added to the cozy, lived-in feel of the house. Y/N glanced at the framed family photos on the walls—pictures of Harry and Gemma as kids, holidays, and snapshots of family gatherings. She could almost feel the warmth of the memories they held.

"We'll be sharing a room," Harry whispered with a playful smirk, gently squeezing Y/N's hand as they reached the landing.

Anne paused in front of a door, turning back to them with a proud smile. "Here we are. Harry's old room," she announced, pushing the door open to reveal a surprisingly neat and tidy bedroom.

Y/N's eyes immediately swept over the space. The walls were still adorned with posters of Harry’s teenage obsessions—vintage rock bands, a few football teams, and even a world map tacked up over the desk. In one corner, there was a shelf packed with old trophies and books, and a small framed photo of Harry and his friends during what looked like a high school camping trip.

Anne chuckled at Y/N’s curiosity as she took in the details of Harry’s past. “I tried to keep it as close to how it was when Harry still lived here, though I did get rid of a few... questionable items.” She shot Harry a teasing look, making him roll his eyes.

“Mum,” Harry groaned with a laugh. “What did you throw out?”

“Oh, just some old band shirts and a few things that hadn’t seen daylight in years,” Anne teased before stepping into the room. “But I made sure to put on fresh sheets and towels for you both. It’ll be a bit of a squeeze with that bed, though.” She nodded toward the bed, which, to Y/N’s amusement, was clearly designed for teenage Harry and not the tall, broad-shouldered man standing next to her.

Harry gave the bed a skeptical glance. "Yeah, I haven’t fit in that thing properly since I was about fifteen."

Anne grinned. “Well, you’ll manage. I’ve put an extra blanket at the foot of the bed, and the towels are in the bathroom right next door. If you need anything else, just let me know.”

Y/N smiled gratefully. “Thanks, Anne. It’s perfect.”

“Good night, you two. Sleep well,” Anne said, giving Harry and Y/N a warm smile before closing the door softly behind her.

The room was quiet now, the only sound coming from the soft hum of the wind outside. Y/N stood in the center, glancing around at the relics of Harry’s younger self.

“So,” she began with a playful grin, “are you going to give me a tour of your teenage bedroom?”

Harry snorted as he rummaged through his bag for his pajamas. “I’m sure you’ve already gathered everything you need to know from the posters.” He pointed to a Led Zeppelin one. “That was peak teenage me.”

Y/N laughed, walking over to inspect the map. "I like this. You were always planning to travel, huh?"

“Yeah, I had this phase where I wanted to visit every country,” Harry said, slipping into his old habits of reminiscing about his younger dreams. "Didn't get very far on that plan though."

They continued to chat as they changed into their pajamas, the room filling with a mix of nostalgia and laughter. Harry was already struggling with the smallness of the room compared to his dorm or the apartment they shared in Chicago, but he seemed to enjoy sharing these pieces of his past with Y/N.

Finally, they both climbed into the bed, which was indeed a tight fit. Harry’s feet dangled slightly off the edge as he tried to stretch out, making Y/N burst into giggles.

“It’s like a doll bed for you,” she teased, pulling the covers up to her chin.

Harry groaned dramatically, trying to find a comfortable position. “This bed is tiny. I swear, I grew like a foot since I last slept in here.”

Y/N shook with laughter as Harry shifted around, trying to fit his legs under the blanket. “It’s freezing too!”

“Welcome to England in the winter,” Harry muttered, reaching down to grab the extra blanket his mom had left. He threw it over them both, wrapping his arms around Y/N and pulling her closer. “Alright, if I can’t fit, we’ll just have to stay like this all night.”

Y/N snuggled into him, still giggling. “I guess I don’t mind that. But seriously, how did you ever survive in here?”

“I was a lot smaller back then,” Harry said, his voice muffled into her hair. “This bed seemed huge at the time. Now it’s just... a glorified hammock.”

They both laughed, the sound filling the room and mixing with the warmth they shared beneath the blankets. Despite the cold and the small bed, Y/N felt an overwhelming sense of comfort. Being here, in Harry's childhood home, surrounded by pieces of his past, made her feel even closer to him.

As the quiet of the night settled in around them, Y/N shifted slightly in Harry's arms, her breath warm against his chest. She was drifting on the edge of sleep, content and peaceful, when Harry’s voice cut through the comfortable silence.

“You know," he murmured, his lips brushing her forehead, "I’ve never had a girl sleep over in my childhood bedroom before."

Y/N blinked her eyes open, a smile tugging at her lips. "Really?" she teased softly, her voice playful. "Not even one?"

Harry chuckled, his hand running gently up and down her arm. "Nope. You're the first."

The simple confession sent a wave of warmth through Y/N, and she pressed closer to him, her heart swelling with affection. She couldn’t help but feel special, knowing that this was another part of Harry’s life she was now a part of.

"Guess I’m making history, then," Y/N whispered, smiling into his chest.

Harry tightened his hold on her, the weight of his words sinking in. “Yeah… you are."

The next morning, Y/N awoke to the soft sounds of chatter and clinking dishes from downstairs. The house was already alive with activity, a stark contrast to the peaceful, quiet night they had shared. Harry stirred beside her, grumbling something incoherent about how early it was before pulling the blanket over his head.

Y/N giggled softly, slipping out of the small bed as she stretched and glanced around the room again. She felt a strange comfort in being here, surrounded by pieces of Harry's past, like she was seeing more of the man she loved. She quickly dressed in the cozy sweater she had packed and glanced back at Harry, who was still buried under the blankets.

"Come on, lazy," she whispered, tugging at the covers playfully. "I think your family is already up and about."

Harry groaned, peeking out from under the blanket with a groggy smile. "M'not ready yet…"

Y/N shook her head with an affectionate grin and turned toward the door when a light knock sounded. It creaked open slightly to reveal Anne, her smile warm and welcoming as always.

"Good morning, you two," she greeted. "We’re all getting ready for the first of the family festivities. I thought I’d come to see if you were up."

Y/N raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Family tradition?"

Anne nodded, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Yes, we do it every year just before Christmas. We take a long walk through the countryside near Holmes Chapel, just a little hike really. It’s something we’ve done since Harry and Gemma were children. It’s our way of getting some fresh air before the holiday madness kicks in."

From under the blanket, Harry groaned again, this time louder. "You didn't tell her about the hike, Mum?"

Anne just laughed softly. "Oh, she’ll love it. Come down when you're ready," she said, closing the door behind her.

Y/N grinned down at Harry, who was still curled up in bed. “A hike? This sounds like fun.”

Harry grumbled as he sat up, rubbing his face. "My mum makes it sound like it’s just a walk, but trust me, it’s like a mini expedition."

Y/N laughed. "Well, come on. I’m excited for my first Styles family tradition."

Half an hour later, they joined the rest of Harry’s family downstairs, where the air was buzzing with cheerful energy. Anne and Gemma were already wearing their hiking boots, and Robin was packing a small backpack with snacks and a thermos of tea. The smell of fresh bread and coffee wafted through the kitchen, making Y/N’s stomach rumble.

“Ready?” Gemma asked with a grin, handing Y/N a pair of gloves. "It’s going to be freezing out there.”

Y/N smiled, feeling the warmth of their family’s enthusiasm rubbing off on her. “Let’s do this."

They bundled up in layers of coats, scarves, and gloves before stepping out into the brisk December air. The sun was low, casting a golden light across the frost-covered fields that stretched out beyond their home. The countryside around Holmes Chapel was beautiful, quiet, and still, the perfect backdrop for a family tradition.

As they started walking along the trail, Harry’s family took turns telling stories of past hikes, recounting mishaps like when Harry got stuck in a tree trying to reach a bird’s nest, or when Gemma fell into a creek and had to walk home soaked from head to toe.

Y/N laughed along with them, feeling a deeper sense of connection with the family she already adored. Harry walked beside her, his arm draped around her shoulders, occasionally teasing her about how much she bundled up.

“You look like an Eskimo,” he joked, adjusting her scarf.

“And yet you’re still cold,” she teased back, laughing as he pulled her closer before she could say something, Harry leaned in, pressing his lips softly against hers.

The kiss was warm and sweet, a quiet moment between them in the chilly morning air. Y/N felt her heart flutter as she melted into it, forgetting for a second that they weren’t alone.

When they pulled apart, Harry smiled, his forehead resting gently against hers. “I love you. I’m really happy you are here”.

Y/N grinned, feeling a blush rise to her already flushed cheeks. “Me too”.

“Get a room, you two! "Gemma's voice broke through their bubble as she smirked at them from a few feet away, pretending to be scandalized.

Harry laughed, pulling Y/N closer as they continued walking, stealing another quick kiss before they fell back into step with his family.

As they continued walking, Anne smiled warmly at Y/N. “I hope you’re enjoying it. This has always been our little way of slowing down and remembering what’s important before the craziness of Christmas.”

Y/N nodded, touched by the sentiment. "I love it. It’s nice to have something like this—a meaningful tradition."

The walk continued, filled with laughter, light-hearted banter, and plenty of family stories, and by the end, Y/N felt like she had truly become a part of the Styles family.