Chapter 1- Lost Causes

Clares POV This was probably one of the greatest moments in my life. I felt my palm sweating, although however unattractive it was. My eyes shifted back and forth between people and places. I knew what I was looking for, just like what every other girl here was looking for- One Direction. Here in Vancouver it was their first gig and I had made sure that I had gotten a ticket; which was very lucky considering none of my school friends had gotten one. Ticketmaster had the tickets online for only 5 minutes before the venue had sold out. I managed to scrounge up one ticket in the plaza. It wasnt the floor, but I could hardly complain because I would still be seeing them. After waiting a year and a half since the tour announcement I was finally approaching the ticket booth where my life wish would be granted. Let me tell you a little bit more about myself. Im 18 now, a good age for the boys considering how young some of the other fans are. My name is Clarisse Evelyn, but I prefer Clare. I have naturally wavy brunette hair, and hazel/brown eyes. I have been a One Direction fan since the beginning- and the rest is history. Youll just have to figure out the rest for yourself. My ear drums were trying to drown out the thrumming screams from throngs of teenage girls all around me. All of us were the lucky few that had gotten tickets, some had been more fortunate than others as I listened in on the girl ahead of me. I got floor tickets! Three of them! I just know Harry will notice me in this outfit. I silently gagged. She wore zebra print leggings above her wedge heels and a long white shirt with the boys faces on them. Whereas for me: I was dressed in my grey LONDON shirt and jean shorts with beige sandals. I didnt care that I dressed differently from everyone else- and I am not just saying that; I literally do dress differently. While everyone else is rocking the skinny jeans, miniskirts, crop tops or small tank tops, I was hanging about in my T-shirts, normal sized tank tops, and boot cut jeans. I didnt care much and in a way it wasnt my fault. It was so hard to find clothes to fit my size. No I am not skinny... I am healthy. I have a rather flat stomach which I am grateful for, and nice legs, but my friends all get mad at me because of my boob size of all things. I cant help it theyre large! I wont go into detail anyways. I drowned out the annoying girls in front of me; claiming that theyre the biggest One Direction fans on the planet, and advanced my place in line. I handed the scraggly woman at the counter my ticket and she proceeded to rip and pass it back to me. My face flushed a bit as soon as I realized that I was truly going to see them and that I had been passed into the venue. My smile never left my face! This was the moment that every directioner dreamed of. It was darker on the inside; but only because it had been such a nice, sunny day outside. Section 112... 113... 114... 115... 116! I said counting quietly to myself as I strolled around the large

arena. This was where the Canucks would play, and I had only been here once before, but it wasnt even to see a game. I marched down the steps to gaze out at the floor seats that swarmed the centre of the arena and the large stage to my left. It was sparkling- and I found it hard to believe that in a mere hour it would be twinkling with lights that shine off of the boys faces. I reached my row and shuffled my way past 5 other girls who had already arrived since the venue was filling up quickly but as I reached seat 14, which was mine, there was already someone sitting in it. My first reaction was confusion but I politely spoke to her, she seemed nice enough. Excuse me; I think youre sitting in my seat. She gave me a weird glance. Uhm... no this is my seat. She said looking at her friend like I was crazy. But my ticket says that I am in this seat. I showed her the hard paper with the numbers printed on it. She looked at it briefly and took out hers. We looked at each others- they had the exact same numbers. We exchanged worried glances. Thats weird... she said, How can we both have the same seat? I sighed. Oh dont worry, Ill just go up and ask customer service, theyll know what to do. She nodded and sat down again, exchanging more confused glances with her friend. I left them and trotted back down the even busy aisles to the top of the stairs where I immediately saw the white sign for customer services. Nervously walking up to the counter, I felt almost heartbroken. My dream may have been crushed and I was trying not to let it get to me. Uhm... I placed my ticket on the counter, I have the same seat as someone else, and we checked it over- both have the same numbers and everything. The man at the desk scanned over my ticket. Well its not a fake... let me call the manager. I watched my feet sadly as he conversed briefly with another voice on the other line. I couldnt make out what they were saying but he returned shortly after. This kind of thing is extremely rare, its a booking mishap. Seems the website sold the ticket twice. He handed me back the piece of paper that once represented my dream come true. He must have noticed my sad look; Hey I have a daughter too, he stated, and I know how sad you must be, but everything is going to be fine. This is Reg. He indicated to a man that had walked silently up beside me. I looked up at him from my 56 view. Hes a security guard. My heart dropped... they were kicking me out for fraudulence or something; I knew it. Dont worry youre not in trouble, the man continued.My manager sent him; hell show you where to go. With that I was dismissed; I waved a quick goodbye and thank you to the man and followed Reg past my section. I figured we were going to converse with the other girl in the seat but he led me past it. We continued to trail down the venue and behind into the corridors where less and less people were milling about. His large stature made me grow worried- who knows what lurks back here. Excuse me, where are we going? I said trying not to seem impolite and make him angry.

Hrmph... was all that he replied with. I saw us walking towards the security office and my heart stopped. Stay here, dont move, was all he said before disappearing before the solid steel door. He went abruptly inside and I stood outside nervous; I was in so much trouble!

Chapter 2- Well Hello There

After waiting for seemingly hours, which was actually only a couple of minutes, my mind was racing. Who knows what they could be discussing in that security office! Maybe they would put me in jail for ticket fraudulence or something! But the man at the service counter said it was a mishap so I couldnt be in that much trouble really... could I? Worse case I guess is that Ill get thrown out and never have my dream of seeing the boys come true- but I wont be in jail. My back was resting against the wall with my hands in my shorts pockets and my eyes resting on the boring linoleum floors. The corridor seemed to go on for a good mile. I snapped my head up when I heard a few short girly screams way down the dimly lit tunnel. I knew it, someone was getting mugged! This is not safe, I shouldnt be here. I almost felt like running right then for my life when the door in front of me swung back open. I exchanged a quick glance with Reg who held a large coffee in his hand. Thats it? He only went inside for a coffee? Typcial. He seemed to have some kind of evil smirk on his face... what was he planning? Follow me, he said in that husky voice and I walked silently behind, looking at the walls. Once in a while I would see an autograph of someone famous lining the cold, white bricks. Why would famous people be down in a place like this? We were headed straight towards the area I had heard the shrieks a few moments ago and I could feel myself becoming restless. We walked over to one of the many doors and I could hear muffled talking on the other side. It was gangsters! It had to be! I felt like running when Reg opened the door, gently shoving me inside and closing it behind me. My first instinct kicked in as I retracted and slammed my fists against the steel door. NO! Dont leave me in here! Gangsters will get me! I heard screaming! AGH REG! The door wouldnt budge and I started panting lightly as I noticed the paint chipping on the metal before realizing fully that I wasnt alone. I dared not turn around though- maybe not seeing my muggers face would appeal better and they would let me go. Dont eat me! I said hiding my face in my arms against the door. I heard chuckling... why were they chuckling.

We arent going to eat you love... It sounded like an uncommon accent to me, but the voice I would have recognized anywhere. I wondered if this was a dream as I slowly turned around to show them my face which was still pale and the opposite of calm from whence I was outside. Not unless you want us too... OUCH! I couldnt help but smile at the familiar cheeky voice. Harry! Thats quite rude. Besides, Niall would be the one to eat her, Louis snickered and I watched in silence. There before me stood the five boys of One Direction. Well we heard that you had some ticket troubles, seems youre seat has been double-booked, Liam said in a matter-of-fact tone. By the way Im Liam... I smiled. I know who guys are, I spoke for the first time. I saw their eyes suddenly glisten intently. She speaks! Louis proclaimed, Cute accent too. I dont have an accent... I said looking at him. To us you do. I watched the keen smiles plaster on their faces. I smiled awkwardly; suddenly realizing how lucky I was and that I would do anything to hug them. I felt my cheeks redden and I looked to the floor. Someones being shy now, Zayn said coming over and wrapping an arm around my shoulder. I figured I better explain. Well... you see. I would have done anything to meet you guys or even get a hug from you, and now that I have Im not sure what to do. I watched them exchange cheeky grins and look at me. Whats your name love? Harry said smiling. Clare. Thats cute too! Shes adorable, Liam can we surprise adopt her? Louis said excitedly. Thats called kidnapping Lou... He said rolling his eyes and I couldnt help but chuckle. Well its very nice to meet you Clare, I heard the Irish accent of Niall who just spoke for the first time. My heart fluttered and I hoped that my cheeks hadnt gone pink again. He was the first one to approach me as well and give me his signature Horan hug. Before I would have done anything to get one but it was obviously near impossible. Now I knew why they were so famoushe wrapped his arms around my waist with my arms around his torso as he buried his face in my neck. He smelled heavenly. Niall smiled at me as I let go and I continued to hug Harry, noticing how truly curly his hair was. It was soft too. Louis grabbed me next, and boy did he smell goodin fact they all did. My arms seemed to meld with Louis perfectly before I reached for Zayn and he pulled me in for a lovely hug. I was a decent height for them, not too short or tall. Liam hugged me like I was his long lost sister or something; but it was adorable. No wonder so many

girls had fallen head over heels for them. I tried to forget the fact of how much I was freaking out- I had just hugged One Direction, an even bigger (but seemingly impossible) dream of mine other than seeing them live in concert. The boys escorted me over to the couch where I sat on the end next to Zayn. No offence or anything, but why was I brought here? I said after the boys were seated almost in a circle. And why did I hear screaming? Is this supposed to be your quiet time before the show? The boys all smiled at my questions before Liam spoke up again, acting like the daddy direction he was. The manager of the arena felt really bad, so he asked us if it would be okay to hang out with a fan for a while. I nodded in understanding; it made sense... kind of. Yes this is supposed to be quiet time... He glared over at Louis and Harry who sat next to each other on the plain rug. But these two decided to wrestle. He was cut off by Harry. I won! And Louis started it; he jumped on me from behind the couch. He said loudly. I laughed. No! You were sitting where I was lying and I ended up on top of you! Lou said defiantly. You are a liar boo-bear! Nu-uh! Uh-huh! Round two then! Lou proclaimed before diving onto Harry. I heard a screech before the two boys went tussling and running about the room. The rest of us laughed ecstatically before the large door swung open for the first time since I had been shoved in. Louis! Harry! Sit your arses back down and be quiet! The show is going to start soon and we dont need voice cracks from either of you. Louis and Harry slunk back over to the rug and sat quietly like trained dogs. It was the legendary Paul! I watched him curiously as his gaze swept the dismembered room and fell on me. Uhm... hello. I could tell he was unsure of whether or not I was supposed to be there. Maybe thought I was a crazed fan who had broken in. This is Clare, Reg brought her in. Niall said. Paul nodded as I smiled politely over at him. Nice to meet you. Boys youre on in ten, He said before closing the door and leaving me to stare straight back at five gorgeous pairs of eyes, all resting on me.

Chapter 3- Sharing Glances

What am I going to do while you guys are performing? The boys were spread out across the room getting ready. Maybe you can come and sit next to the stage and watch, Niall said hopefully. Yeah you seem like a pretty cool girl Clare, I could talk to Paul about getting you up right next to the performance, Louis slung his arm around my shoulder, only to bring a bright smile on my face. I nodded sweetly at him so he smiled and left the room. You know... you guys are actually really sweet. I said while sitting on the armrest of the couch. The boys looked at me and raised an eyebrow. What did you expect us to be? Harry chuckled. Different... but you are all so down-to Earth. Its quite nice actually. So its a good thing were not aliens, Zayn said with his gaze never leaving the mirror as he did some final touch ups on his hair. The door swung open and Louis bounded in playfully. Good news Lads, Clare gets to watch really close! They all exchanged evil glances, which eventually rested on me. What? Whats going on? Please, this way madam, Liam gestured while holding the door open, We will show you to your seat. I walked out after Zayn as he led the five of us down the corridor to the stage. Large, black, curtains draped everywhere around us creating walls. Come on now; dont want to miss the show. Harry popped his head around the side of a curtain and winked at me. Why was I getting butterflies? They may be international pop stars but I was just a semi-normal girl. Peering around the curtain I could hear the screams of fans outside. A video was playing up on a massive screen above the stage. The boys stood next to me; what was I supposed to do? Sit here. Niall whispered in my ear because the sounds of screaming were drowning out any normal conversation. He gestured with his hand to a seat next to where they were standing. Im supposed to sit here? My eyes bugged out disbelievingly. They wanted me to watch the boys perform- from the stage? This was insane! Before I sat down the boys all ran by and

jumped onto the stage excitedly, immediately beginning their first song- Live While Were Young. Sitting down and watching the boys from the sideline was amazing. The crowd couldnt see me, but I could stare without them noticing- until they stared back that is. First I caught Harry looking in my direction; I gave a quick smile and wave in which he returned with a smile. Then I caught Niall and Liam doing the exact same thing. A few times during the concert, One Direction would come off stage to get a quick drink and get microphones fixed. This time before they dispersed back onto the stage they came and said hi to me again in which I returned playful high fives in return. The boys would all just laugh and try to regain their breath before returning to the spotlights. I wanna stay up all night until we see the sun! I sang along the whole time to all of their songs, which gave me a few odd glances from crewmen and the boys were trying not to crack up on stage when they noticed me dancing awkwardly next to the chair. Hello. Im Paul. I whipped around, a blush quickly crossing my face since he had just witnessed my horrible dance moves. Hi Paul, Im Clare. What do you think of the concert so far? He said keeping his eyes on the boys where they were performing. Its amazing! Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity of a lifetime, I said gratefully, extending my hand. Paul returned the smile and shook my hand. Well the boys seem to be getting along great with you. Its not often that we find a fan who isnt screaming every second. Paul chuckled to himself. It was great to meet them; I just cant believe that itll be over soon. Ive waited 3 years for this concert... and I knew how much more unlikely it was that I would meet them- so thank you again. Paul just nodded. We both watched the boys sing the last notes of the song, when their eyes met ours. I smiled until Paul and they exchanged a few odd glances and they were off to the next song. I lifted an eyebrow in confusion at the boys and Pauls secret telepathic conversation. So, he broke the silence, How would you like to join the boys for the rest of the tour?

Chapter 4- Restrictions

What just happened? Paul asked me to go on tour with the boys. It would only be a month as they were already halfway through- but still. This was the chance of a lifetime to be sure, but I couldnt just say yes! Wow... thats a huge honor Mr. Higgins, his eyes seemed to light up at the mention of his formal name- good I had impressed him! But Id like to talk to my parents first? I said hesitantly, but loud enough that he could hear over the boys angelic voices. I looked back at the stage briefly where several of the boys were shooting me glances... they had planned this! Thats why they were exchanging weird glances with Paul earlier; it all made sense now. That is absolutely okay Ms. Evelyn... would you mind calling them right now though? We are on a tight schedule and need to leave as soon as the concert ends. I nodded and walked farther behind the stage where the music wasnt so loud. My mind was buzzing with excitement; I was just managing to contain it very well. The numbers on my phone were spinning as I punched in our own familiar home number. The tone rang a few times before my moms subtle voice filled the space. Hello? Mom! I said probably sounding a bit more rushed than I had intended. Clarisse? Arent you at the concert? Are you okay? Mom yes, Im at the concert. Sorry, dont worry! Uhmmm... some interesting news... I paused tentatively, wondering how she would take it. I met the boys, they really like me, and their manager invited me to go on tour with them- but its only a month until the end of summer! I said it all so quickly that I was unsure if she had even heard everything that I had said. Wow... I cant believe you met them! Are they nice boys? Her voice seemed happy. They are amazing mom... super kind, funny, not stuck-up celebrities in the slightest. There was a quiet moment before she spoke up again. You know I dont think its a good idea to hang out with 5 boys for the whole summer. I sighed. Yeah I know mom... But I do think that it would be an amazing thing to do. Tour the West Coast and all... My head snapped back up.

Does that mean yes? Moms sigh rang through the phone. On two conditions! Okay! Okay? What is it? One... you call EVERY day. And Im serious about this alright? For sure! You know I wont forget. And Two... Do NOT- and I mean DO NOT fall in love with any of them. My heart sunk a little, but I never really was expecting to fall in love with any of them in the first place. Alright Mom... Thank you so much! We chatted away quickly with our goodbyes before I hung up, and when I spun around, five grinning boys were standing behind me. Uhm... arent you guys supposed to be on stage? Quick break before the last song, Zayn said with a huff. So you can come? Harrys cheerful voice asked impatiently. You were eavesdropping? How much did you hear? I said crossing my arms. Oh only the part about how amazing, kind, funny, and not stuck-up we are, Louis gave a toothy grin. Lou! I said with a huff. These boys were hopeless; there was a lot of work that needed to be done in order to get them back on track. Maybe I never should have agreed... I said with my best acting voice. Their eyes glowed. Youre coming with us! Liam said ecstatically, running up to me and wrapping me in a hug. The other boys were quick to follow. Hey! You are supposed to be on stage! A stage manager came running up behind us, shoving the boys off of me and towards the stage. I gave them all sympathetic glances before joining Paul at my chair. Well Ms. Evelyn? My mom said that I could come- she gave me a couple of restrictions but I can come. I dont want to feel like a burden or anything. Trust me... if anything you will do these boys some good. They need a nice girl to whip them into shape, a chuckle escaped his mouth, So if you dont mind me asking- what were the

restrictions. I turned to watch the boys and Niall leaped off the ground excitedly. All of the boys suddenly seemed to have twice as much energy as they did in the previous song. She said that I have to call her every day... so I guess that means I need access to wifi or any signal. He nodded. And she said that I cant fall in love with any of the boys. Was I imagining things or did Paul just chuckle? Dont worry Ms.- Just call me Clare. Clare. It would be for the better if you didnt love them- maybe I will have a talk with them about not liking you. But I wont mention that it was your mom who came up with the rule. I nodded. Thanks Paul... As much as I hated being restricted from crushing on the boys, it was for the better. Life was about to get a lot more complicated with 5 boys and one girl on a small bus.