Be My Mascot

Chapter 23

Chapter 23

Bailey's POV

Two days have gone by and each one ticks closer to Christmas. For those forty-eight hours, I haven't found myself to go present shopping. I still need to get something for my parents and Danny. I figured I could send the package abroad.

In three more days, I should be celebrating the holiday season with gingerbread men and hot chocolate. Everyone is happy and cheery.

Everyone that is, except me. I cannot get in the Christmas spirit, no matter how many times my mother says that to me. She practically dragged me into the living room last night to watch the Christmas specials on TV. On top of that, my father did all of the cookie baking, which was something I would always enjoy taking part in when I got home from school.

I feel like I'm depressed, and honestly, it's really scaring me. Two boys just can't get out of my thoughts. Images of my brother, Danny and Niall float through my brain. I imagine what Danny looks like when he texts me, "I love you." Then, I think of Niall, and the way he held my hand. The warmth made my body tingle.

I lay in bed while reminiscing over all of Niall and I's dates, or when we just hung out and watched movies together. I stare up at the ceiling fan. A small smile breaks out on my face when Niall's musical laughter plays over in my mind. He makes everyone smile.

The bedroom door creaks open and my mother walks in. She takes in my appearance, sighing.

"Bailey, you haven't gotten out of bed in two days."

"That's not true. You dragged me out yesterday," I remind her.

She rests her hand on her hip, frowning at me.

"Don't you still have present shopping to do?" Mum asks.

I simply nod.

"Come on then, get out of bed and go."

I roll my eyes, flipping over the bed sheets. I crawl out and tiredly walk in my closet. My mother leaves just as I take out a pair of jeans and a sweater. In a matter of minutes, I'm dressed and freshened up. I grab my purse that sits on my desk chair.

Once I'm on the road, the radio is turned on. My fingers tap on the steering wheel to the rhythm of the song. I slow down at a red light and check my makeup. The side mirror barely helps, so I'm praying that I don't look too horrendous.

Small, white speckles abruptly fall on the wind shield. Gradually, there becomes more and each one thickens. The snow looks so pretty as it falls on the surrounding trees.

My eyes casually glance at the car next to me. I almost have a heart attack when I see the driver.

He looks just like Niall.

When I turn back to check again, the car is gone.

I'm going mad.

Niall couldn't possibly be here. I bet he went home to Ireland with his family. Of course, I don't know that for a fact, but who would stay on campus for a holiday?

Finally calming down, I pull into a shopping center. The light snow falls on top of my head when I step outside. The ice quickly melts into water. Some continue to stick on my sweater.

Automatic doors open in front of me and I walk inside. I sigh when the heat warms up my body.

First is my mother. I make my way to the ladies department. I guess clothes will do. I haven't seen her in months. I'm not completely sure what she wants for Christmas. I should have checked with my father to see what he already purchased for her. I skim through the racks of shirts. A nice looking cardigan catches my eye. The light, grayish color is perfect for this season. I take the piece of clothing with me, choosing the right size.