Chasing Cars

Chapter 119

Louis helps me check my bags in then we have to say goodbye. I wrap my arms around his neck and he hugs me tightly.

“We’ll talk all the time and I’ll come see you when we’re in America,” he assures me before pulling away. “We’ll see each other soon, don’t worry,” Louis grips my arms and I nod.

“Thank you so much for everything.  I love you, Lou,” I hug him again, this time wrapping my arms around his waist.

“I love you too,” he says back. I tear myself from him and after a slight smile in Louis’ direction, I head inside the airport.

The worst part about all of this was that I wasn’t just losing Harry, I was losing all the boys and everyone around them that I’ve become close too. Anne, Lux and Lou, Eleanor, Andy, Danielle, Perrie….the list goes on. I wipe my cheeks and get in line for security.

***

Right off the plane, my phone beeps and buzzes. 3 missed calls and two voicemails from Harry, a text from Louis, and a text from my mom. I text my mom back immediately, telling her I’m here, and I head to the baggage claim. I reply to Louis and ignore Harry’s attempts to contact me. I wait for my two suitcases then go outside and find my mom and our car. She hugs me and helps me load my bags. On the drive home, I tell her all about why I’m back home. She just nods and listens to me.

Monday (December 24th)

We did some traveling for the holidays.  It was really great to see all my extended family again.  It took my mind off the recent events, which was nice, but what I really wanted to do was curl up in my room for a month and not come out.

Once home, that’s exactly what I did.  Well, not exactly.  I came out to get minimal amounts of food and to shower and use the bathroom and everything.  And it only lasted for three days.  On the morning of the 28th, my mom let herself into my room.

“Hi, sweetie,” she sits on my bed.

“Hi,” I mumble.

“If you want to get some friends together, you can use the condo for New Year’s Eve,” Mom suggests.

“Thanks, but I don’t know if I want to hang out with anyone,” I tell her quietly.  Beside me, my phone starts buzzing.

“Are you sure about that?” she nods towards my phone before getting up and leaving.  Confused, I grab my phone, seeing Bridget is calling me.

“Hey,” I say, kicking myself because I sounded so guilty in just one syllable.  I hadn’t called Bridget since I left England.

“Hi, how are you?” she asks me.  I just grumble in response. “I see.  Anyway, I’ve got a surprise for you.”

“Okay?” I wait for her to speak again.

“We’re coming to spend New Year’s with you!” she squeals.

“What?” I gasp.

“Your parents are having a party. They invited my parents who they haven’t seen in years and we’re coming!” Bee explains.

“When?”

“We fly out tomorrow morning!” she tells me.

“I can’t wait!” I smile.

Saturday (December 29th)

Bridget and her family arrive at the airport around 1pm the next day and my dad goes to get them. I would have come but they need the room in the car. They’re staying at our house because we’ve got the room and it won’t cost them any money like a hotel would.  So, I’m helping my mom clean up and make room for them here. I Skyped with Louis and Eleanor last night and have been texting Niall non-stop. I miss everyone so much; even Harry, who is averaging three calls and one voicemail a day. I was busy wiping down the dining room table when I heard voices downstairs. I quickly finish then run down to greet my friend and her family. I help them figure out where they’re staying then Bridget and I go into my room.