band-aids don't fix bullet holes

{46} christmas with the swifts

TW: slight mentions of ED, not really though (not sure if the tw is necessary but hey just in case)

Taylor's POV:

Christmas is coming around and to be honest I thought Blake would call me again, asking about the scars she recently discovered but nothing.
Talking about feelings...that weird dinner a few days ago is engraved in my soul and things concerning my relationship with food have just gotten worse since, which I didn't think they could.

I'm currently preparing for Christmas Eve, which is tonight, my parents and my brother arriving later today, because Christmas has always been special for me, ever since I was a child literally growing up on a Christmas Tree Farm. Like for most people, Christmas is definitely a family holiday for us Swifts. Having to spend last year's christmas in a hospital makes this year's holiday even more valuable.
However I'm somehow nervous about spending the days with mom, dad and Austin as I know that I'm definitely not being myself at the moment and I'm afraid it'll show and ruin the magic for everyone.

The turkey in the oven, I begin to get Hailey ready, shoving her into a white dress, its skirt full and layered with tulle. I round the look off with putting a white headband on top of her hair.

"You're such a beautiful girl, a literal princess." I adore her with a huge grin on my face, before bringing her downstairs and handing her to Eliza to get ready myself.
With dizziness enveloping me over and over again I take a quick shower, then start to cover up the scars on my arms with some layers of make-up, since I'm planning on wearing a short-sleeved dress.
When all the wounds are finally gone, as if they had magically disappeared, I put on a striking red dress with a classic, vintage-inspired design, - in my opinion perfect for Christmas - before straightening my hair and letting in causally fall over my shoulders. Some eyeliner and a prominent, red lipstick finishing the look.

"Do you need help with dinner or something?" Eliza offers when I stroll down the stairs and taking one last look at myself in the huge mirror that's hanging in the hallway.

"Well unless you wanna help the turkey cook itself..." I joke, immediately realizing how lame that sounded. "No, come on, get home to your family! Merry Christmas." I slowly push her into the direction of the front door, not because I want to get rid of her but because I really want her to enjoy the holidays with her loved ones.

"Merry Christmas, Taylor. Have a magical time!" The brunette replies quickly and grabs her jacket. "I left the presents for you and Hailey in the guest room I usually stay in when I sleep over ."

"Wait.." I furrow my brows. "You got me a present?"

"Of course I did."

In this moment I wish a hole would open up and swallow me as a great amount of shame creeps up my legs.

"I-I...I didn't get you a present..." I confess guilty, my expression sad.

"Oh don't you worry, it's okay." The babysitter assures. "All I wish for is that you are having some wonderful days."

I simply hum in response as Eliza slightly waves and leaves in an absolutely pleasant mood, however, I can't let go of the fact that I literally forgot to get her a present when she has been one of the most helpful people in my life lately. I quickly pull out my phone and open the paypal app, before searching for Eliza's contact. I mean I pay her every month but who doesn't enjoy a little bonus?

5000$
<3
Merry Christmas! Make sure to create a magnificent time for your family!
I know money doesn't buy happiness and I'm sure something more personal would've been more suitable but that's the least I can do on such short notice! Thank you so much for all your help! You have been a great relief and I couldn't be more grateful for the way you treat Hailey! We love you!