Take the Edge Off by cyclogenesis (NC-17)

[twigged.livejournal.com]

Fandom: ONE DIRECTION
Pairing: OT5 (Harry/Liam/Louis/Niall/Zayn)
Length: ~17,500 words
Author on LJ: cyclogenesis
Author on AO3: cyclogenesis (addictedkitten)
Why this must be read:

My first rec is a canon-compliant fic set during the Judge's Houses' portion of The X-Factor, when the boys are preparing for the audition that will determine if they advance to the live performance shows. It has a sweet end-of-the-world quality, as Niall and the others begin to acknowledge the unique bond that they're forming, and that getting through isn't just about competing...but about staying together, and about what they could be to each other.

Who knew what secret gay feelings might be lurking about in the hearts of boys?