Be My Mascot

Chapter 5

Chapter 5

Bailey's POV

On Wednesday, Aubrey wasn't feeling well and decided to skip classes. She was running a fever and had a mad headache, according to her text. Another downside was that I'd have to be alone at Law and lunch. I was hoping she'd feel better and be well enough to go to try-outs on Friday. The drowsy weather wasn't helping my mood, either. I basically dragged myself to Law.

When I entered the classroom, it was exactly 10:00. I shuffled to the table that Aubrey and I would always sit at. I didn't even want to make eye contact with Chase and Niall. I'm not sure what their problem is, but it sure as hell creeps me out.

The professor soon entered the room and set his briefcase down. He cleared his throat and clapped his hand.

"Alright, today we will be studying for the upcoming quiz. I have posted the partners I want you all to get in. Each group will sit together and review the material I've taught you. The list is on the wall."

All of our eyes moved to the direct wall he pointed to. We got up from our seats and walked to the paper that stuck to the brick. After some people found their names and backed away, I was able to find my partner. My finger trailed down the paper.

Bailey Thomas.....Caleb Morgan

I frowned. Who's Caleb Morgan? An abrupt tap on my shoulder made me turn around.

"Bailey? I'm Caleb. I believe we're partners," The male said quietly.

He was smaller than I, maybe a couple inches below my height. Glasses were held on the bridge of his nose.

"Oh, um hi, Caleb."

His arm reached out to point to a table.

"Shall we?" He asked.

"Yeah."

I tried to ignore the fact that Caleb was a bit of a nerd. I moved over to his table and he followed me. My gaze looked around the room to see who everyone else was with. I wasn't surprised when I saw Niall's arm stretched around a girl. Obviously a cheerleader.

My focus came back to Caleb. He looked a little scared. I kinda felt bad for the guy. He shouldn't be intimidated by me of all people.

"So um, should we begin?" I asked, breaking the silence.

He nodded, taking out a notebook. A piece of paper was taken out, and he held it out for me to take. I gave him a small smile, looking down to the written words on the notebook. I read some of the notes before asking one aloud.

"What's the first thing to ask the victim?"

Caleb was quick to answer. I was thinking that he already reviewed these questions.

"First, you have to ask them if they k-"

Caleb's voice was cut off by a raspy laugh. He immediately quieted, looking back. Chase and Niall rose above us. Each one had a devilish smile on their faces.

"Look-y here," Chase began. "Caleb is actually communicating with a girl!" He said, tone thick with sarcasm.

Niall crossed his arms, snickering at his friends' harsh words. I frowned, watching their interaction. Why are they talking to him that way? Caleb looked away from them.

"Aw, is little Caleb gunna cry? Maybe his lady friend here can call his mummy for him," Niall spoke, amused at the pain he was causing.

Those were the first words I've heard him speak. Although they were truly mean, I was fascinated by his voice. It was a thick Irish accent, despite being in England. It differed from mine and everyone else's British accent.

Caleb's hand came up to his eyes, moving his glasses to remove a tear. My mouth parted in shock. Nothing came out of my mouth. Aubrey was right; these guys are assholes.

"Wait, are you mad at us, Caleb?" Niall taunted. "Then just tell us."

Caleb stayed silent, eyes fixed on the ground. My mouth opened, then clamped shut. What could I say?

Niall laughed, "Guess not."

The professor finally looked up from his desk.

"Horan, Michaels, return to your seats."

They both complied, walking away with a short huff. I reached out to touch Caleb's shoulder.

"Are you okay?" I quietly gushed.

He didn't say anything. No shake or nod.

"Why do they do that to you?" I continued with a soft whisper.

Still nothing. I bit my lip, thinking of what to do. An idea popped into my head. I grabbed my pen and tore off a piece of paper from the pad. My phone number was scribbled down and handed to Caleb.

"Call me if you need someone to talk to. I know I don't really know you, but I'd gladly help anytime."

He finally looked up to stare at me. His mouth parted, shocked at what just happened.

"T-Thanks." He stuttered.

I nodded, giving him a weak smile.

****

Class ended and I gathered my belongings. My eyes found Niall, who was just exiting the room. I shook my head in disgust. Why did he have to be so mean? My pace quickened, trying to reach his figure. I harshly tapped on his shoulder from behind. He spun around, focusing on me.

"What the hell was that for?" I snapped.

He looked a little taken aback. Niall's features soon hardened.

"What do you mean?" He glared.

My mouth parted. God, this boy was stubborn.

"Caleb! You know, most people grow out of the phase of bullying. But I guess not you and Chase. Would you just grow up?"

Even I was a little surprised at my actions towards this. I couldn't believe I was being defensive over this stranger. Niall's nose flared and his eyes glanced to the side, looking down the long hallway. No one was around, so he looked back to me. I gasped when he roughly pushed me against the wall. His body pressed to my own. The contact made me whimper in pain. I could feel his hot breath against my skin. My head turned, forcing myself not to look at him.

"I'm not sure who you think you are, but you sure as hell don't get to tell me what to do," Niall bit back.

His hair touched my cheek as he dipped his head to my neck. My body started to function, and I pried his grasp off of me.

"Get away from me," I winced.

He backed away, letting me flee from the scene. My books stabbed at my stomach as I ran as fast as I could from the building.