daybreak-delusion

[daybreak-delusion]

This was beautiful! So happy that it ended on a goodend but so sad it’s over :(

Break My Heart (JJ Maybank x Reader)

Fanfiction

Chapter 26 

LAST PART

You’re John B’s cousin, your father sent you to Outer Banks to keep an eye on his nephew or at least that what everyone believes. You expected it to be a calm summer, relaxing in the beach, catching up with your cousin and clearing your mind, but all those plans fly out the window when you meet JJ Maybank.

Warning: emotions per usual THIS IS THE LAST PART GUYS BUCKLE UP!

| Ch 1 | Ch 2 | Ch 3 | Ch 4 | Ch 5 | Ch 6 | Ch 7 | Ch 8 | Ch 9 | Ch 10| Ch 11 | Ch 12 | Ch 13 | Ch 14 | Ch 15 | Ch 16 | Ch 17 | Ch 18 | Ch 19 | Ch 20 | Ch 21 | Ch 22 | Ch 23 | Ch 24 | Ch 25 |

“We can ran away on the volkswagen” Sarah proposed from the bed where she was sitting next to Kie. They supposedly were going to help you pack everything up but they were just laying in bed jokingly thinking on ways to make you stay.

“It’ll probably break, we can use my mom’s van.” Kie said making the three of you laugh. “Or we fake your death and hide you in The Wreck until the investigation is over!”

“What would you prefer for a fake death: hit by a car or drowning in the marsh?” Sarah asked.

“I’d like something more dramatic like mysterious poisoning.” you replied as you placed the last piece of clothing on the suitcase and zipped it, finishing packing. It felt like you had a list of things to do before you left and one by one you were crossing them out, getting closer and closer to the moment where you’d have to say goodbye. Your expresion let slip your true feelings no matter how hard you tried it hide it by joking and laughing, and Kie noticed.

“So what is the plan?” she asked trying to distract you.

“First ferry, then we drive to the airport and then plane to London.” you repeated what your father had told you earlier that morning while you were having breakfast. 

“Well I wouldn’t expect you to get there swimming.” John B said suddenly appearing on the door frame. You rolled your eyes and walked up to him.

“I’m gonna miss your smart ass.” you said as you let yourself fall into his embrace.

“I’m gonna miss you more.” he let out with a wretched tone and tightened the hug. It was slowly turning into a farwell and you could do nothing to stop it.

“Y/N we should get going.” your father said from behind John B, breaking the sweet moment. The moment had come, you knew it would sooner or later but that didn’t make it any easier. How were you supposed to do this? What were you supposed to say?

“We’ll walk you to the car.” Kie said standing up and grabbing your suitcase. They each walked out till you were left in the door frame looking at the empty guest room that how slowly become your room throughout the summer, your’s and JJ’s.

You couldn’t stop the memories that started rushing to your brain. When he found you after that fight with John B, the night after your first day, the first time you slept together and the other many moments lived cuddling, talking, laughing, occasionally smoking but overall just enjoying and loving one another. All those memories started playing in your head like flashbacks and a horrible bittersweet feeling took over, because that’s all they were: memories. You’d never live something like that again, it was in the past.

“Are you okay?” John B’s voice and his hand in your shoulder brought you back to reality. You looked at him, unable to hide your true feelings.

“He’s not coming.” you said and he didn’t need to ask, he knew who you were talking about.

“Hey come here.” He pulled you once again into his arms and started stroke your hair gently. You tried suppress the tears that formed as you remembered JJ but as soon as you felt his arm around you you couldn’t hold it in anymore.

“Guess you were right after all, we were destined to fail. You said we were gonna break each other’s heart and you were right. Well not completely, more like I ended up breaking his.”

“No, don’t say that. I believe in you two.  I really do. I think that years from now, when you finish studying whatever it is you want to study in one of those uptight british colleges, you’ll come back here and you’ll meet again and you’ll give it a second chance.”

“Thank you.” you said looking up at him, truly touched by his words and hoping he was right. Hoping that it was just bad timing and a couple bad decisions from your side. Hoping you and JJ were meant to be. “Let’s go. My father will kill me if we lose the ferry or the flight or both.”

You walked through the hallway, across the living room, out of the house. Looking at everything trying to have one final picture before you left of the place that had become your second home. The pogues were already outside, waiting for you next to the car your father had rented, all of them with sad expression knowing only one thing was left: say goodbye. You walked slowly up to them, preparing mentally for what was about to come and not wanting to break down in front of them like you had just done in front of your cousin.

“I’m gonna miss you so much.” you told them once you were in front of them, accompanied by a half smile that intended to lighten the atmosphere but just showed how on edge you were. “The worst thing that i ever did is what i did to you and you somehow forgave me so thank you for that and for being there with me all summer and understanding and just giving me the best summer of my life overall. You really are the best.”

“Don’t act like you’re never gonna see us again! We have to face time weekly, promise it.” Sarah said.

“Fuck weekly, I’ll call you daily.” you said pulling her into a hug. She hugged you back strongly and you could feel her trying to hold on sobs, not wanting to make a scene. You pulled away after a couple seconds and tried to give her your best smile but nothing could make a goodbye feel less heart-rending. Next was Pope.

“I want you to crush that scholarship interview, ok?” you told him as you hugged him. “And don’t let them do anything too stupid please.” you added making him laugh.

“I’ll do my best.” he said as you pulled away and turned to look at Kie. You were surprised to see her crying, she always had a tough exterior, you were almost sure you had never seen her this emotional.

“Are does tears I see coming out of Kiara Carrera’s eyes?” you teased her.

“Shut up.” she said pushing you into her chest to give you a tight hug and the tears you had been holding on since you walked out the house started rolling down your face. It was hard, you wished you could turn back time and live every moment again, meeting them, getting to know them, everything

“And last but not least-” you said once Kie let go of you as you turned around to meet John B

“No. Don’t even try to do a soppy goodbye speech.” he cut you off and stepped closer for his hug. “Just promise that you’ll visit as often as you can and that you won’t catch an accent.” You laughed at his comment but didn’t pull away and soon the rest of the pogues joined. You let yourself enjoy it, every second of it. You wanted the memory to be engraved in your brain because God knows when was the next time you’d be able to feel like this, like you were part of something, like they had your back, like family.

You looked at the driveway before hopping into the car, hoping that by some kind of miracle he would appear, not to confess he still loves you and kiss you or something, just to have a proper goodbye. But he didn’t. Your father started to drive off as the pogues waved.

JJ wasn’t sure what he was thinking. He wasn’t sure what he was thinking as he decided to get on the bike and he wasn’t sure what he was thinking as he drove as fast as he could to John B’s house. He would be lying if he said that he didn’t think non stop about you ever since he saw you walk away the day before on the docks, he could barely sleep last night and as he tried to do his work fixing some neighbours car you wouldn’t leave his mind. However he couldn’t pick point the exact moment in which he decided to do it, to reach you before you left, to tell you how he really felt. Because he owed it to you, to the relationship you had created. He still loved you and he needed to let you know, it didn’t matter that you were moving away and he didn’t know when he would be able to see you again.

There was no car on the driveway when he arrived at the chateau which was a bad sign. He quickly got off the bike and run to the porch were he found the pogues hanging out.

“She’s gone!?” was all he was able to ask. Everyone looked at him confused, not because of the question but because they didn’t expect to see him.

“She literally just left.” Pope told him.

“Shit.” he said, already giving up and letting himself fall on one of the chairs, but quickly stood up when Kie shouted:

“What are you doing?!”

“What do you want me to do? She’s gone!” he said lifting his arms in defeat. It was over, you were gonna leave without knowing how he really felt. He hated how proud he could be sometimes, especially when things like this happened and all that was left to do was regret.

“She’s not gone dumbass. She just left! Get on that stupid bike and catch her before they take the ferry!” Sarah was the one shouting now.

“But do you think I’ll make in time-”

“Go!” all of them shouted at the same time and that’s all the convincing he needed. He nodded his head eagerly and rushed back to his bike, still doubting he would make it time but knowing he at least needed to try.

“Tickets?” the man at the entrance of the ferry asked and your father extended his hand and gave him the two tickets. You had your suitcase in one hand and your cellphone on the other, nervously looking at it every minute to see if you had a text or call from JJ saying how he changed his mind and he wanted to see you before you left. You knew it wouldn’t change anything you were still leaving any second from now but knowing he regretted how things ended would change everything.

You looked behind you one last time before you stepped into the ferry, hoping to see him running down the docks screaming your name. You’d run to him and hug him, you’d tell him once again how sorry you were and he’d say he still loved you.

“Isn’t that your friend?” you heard your father ask, getting you out of your trance. You looked up at him confused, he was standing right in front of you. He yanked his head, signaling you to look behind you and when you did you thought you were dreaming because the thing you were imagining in your head seconds ago had become true.

“JJ?” you whispered to yourself. You couldn’t believe what you were seeing. He was running down the docks, just like you had hoped. You could tell he was looking for you but couldn’t see you. “JJ!” you screamed and the way his whole face lit up when he saw you made yours lit up too.

You started running down the ferry’s deck to the entrance. You could feel your father calling you but you didn’t care. You also didn’t care when the man from before told you couldn’t get off the boat because you were about to leave as you crossed the entrance and got off the boat. He had the biggest smile on his face and so did you. People started looking at you wondering what was causing so much commotion, but you kept running until you found yourself in his arms.

Your bodies crushed and you thought you’d end up falling to the ground but you didn’t. He hold you tight against his chest, his head buried in your neck. It felt like everything fell back into place. Ever since that morning when your father came and truth inevitably got out it felt like something broke inside of you because of all the pain you caused and even after you had apologized and made amends with everyone something was missing, he was missing. 

“I’m sorry about yesterday at the docks I don’t know what got into me, why I was so cold.” he said pulling away but not letting go of you.

“You had every right to be.”

“But I shouldn’t. I don’t know why I thought it was better to act indifferent, like I didn’t care when I do. I do Y/N. I tried to fight it because you hurt me, you broke my heart, and honestly it’s only going to hurt even more when you leave but I can’t deny it anymore. I love you.” 

You looked at him still in disbelief that he was right there in front of you, saying all the things you longed to hear, telling you he still loved you. It took you a seconds to process what he had said but when you did you kissed him.

It was an intense kiss, not sensual or rough, just intense. It showed all your true feelings, how sorry you were, how much you loved him and how much you were gonna miss him. He didn’t hesitate to kiss you back with as much intensity, one hand on your waist and the other on your face as yours were on the back of his neck. It had all the emotions and excitement like the first kiss and that bittersweet taste of knowing it would be the last for a long time. 

“I love you.” you mumbled against his lips, not wanting to break the kiss, not wanting it to end, but at the same time you needed to tell him, you needed him to hear it even thought the kiss was already showing it. The world around you disappeared to the point you didn’t notice your father was walking up to you until you had reluctantly pulled away from JJ’s lips needing to take a breath.

“I’m sorry but we have to leave.” you father said. You nodded at him and turn to look at JJ. He knew this was going to happen, he knew that even if he was able to see you before you left and tell you what he really felt it didn’t change the fact that you were leaving. He knew this and he tried to prepare himself for it but it still hurt.

“It’s okay. This is not a goodbye and this is not the end.” he said with such a reassuring certainty that put you at ease.

“I’ll call you when I get there and I promise I’ll come back to visit as soon as I can.” you said against his chest as you hugged him one final time.

“I’ll promise I’ll be here waiting.”

It was hard to pull away, neither of you wanted but you had to. You said ‘I love you’ one final time and you let go of his hand. Every inch of your body wanted to run back to his arms and never let go but you couldn’t.

You walked back to the ferry and waved at him from the deck, only now noticing the tears rolling that your face. It hurt, your heart was aching, but it was also good, because now you knew how JJ truly felt and even thought you were leaving everything felt back in place.

Once the ferry started and you slowly got farther and farther away from the docks to the point that JJ was just a small spot in the docks, you took a sit next to your father. He was checking something on his phone, it probably had to do with your flight.

“So you got yourself a boyfriend?” he asked looking at you teasingly. Only now you had realized you never told him about JJ, he knew you had gotten closer to John B’s friends but not that close.

“Yeah.” you said as your cheeks turned red. “Kind of I don’t know what we are now.”

“Well whatever you are I can tell you really care about each other.”

“I love him dad. I know it sound stupid and you’ll think this is just a summer fling or something and I’m too young to know about love and everything, but I love him.” you told him, your cheeks turning even more red as you spoked about JJ. It was weird having this kind of conversations with your dad, you never talked about feelings since both of you had a hard time dealing with them.

“I never said that. You know your mother and I met when we were about your age so …” he pointer out.

“True, you were high school sweetheart, right?” He nodded. That’s when you realized you were actually talking about your mother, something even weirded and more unusual between the two of you than talking about feelings. “We never talk about here. We should start talking about her more often.”

“We should. So tell me more about this J-something boy.” he said shoving his phone in his pocket, showing you you had his full attention.

“JJ dad.” you corrected him with a laugh. “He’s the best. John B says his the male version of me which is kind of true but at the same time we complement each other. I don’t know how to explain it it’s like we’re meant to be together, we make each other better if that even makes sense. He’s sweet and funny and caring and so selfless. He’s been there for me all summer, whenever I felt down he was there to cheer me up and when I told him about what happened why I ran away he didn’t judge me, he was so supporting and comforting. He gave me my space when I needed it but at the same time he was always there for me. I love him.”

There was a moment of silent after you finished talking, you started to worry, maybe it was too much for him, after all you had never talked about this kind of things with him, maybe he felt overwhelmed by it. He seemed to be lost in his thoughts and his expression was unreadable.

“Here take this.” he said suddenly said grabbing his wallet and giving you money.

“W-what’s this for?” you said looking at him confused.

“As soon as we touch land I want you to get another ferry back to Outer Banks and once you’re there you can get a taxi or something to your cousin’s.” he told you. You could tell he wasn’t joking by the serious tone he was using, but still nothing was making sense.

“W-what?!” you asked even more confused than before. 

“The way you talk about him, your mother and I were just like that. That’s true love. You know she always wanted to stay here but I never liked it and I convinced her to move away to the city. She was so unhappy but she did it for me. Then we had you and she was happy once again, but there was always a part of her that belonged here, that wanted to come back and I’ve always believed that’s one of the reasons she got sick. I won’t make the same mistake again. You have  a found home in Outer Banks, you have your cousin and friends and love. Not having you with me will hurt but I can’t take that away from you. I wanted us to work in our relationship and maybe this is the first step, recognising what you truly want.” You heart started racing with every word your father said. It was already strange and surprising to hear him talk so deeply about emotions and your mother. But also where he was going with what he was saying, you couldn’t believe it, you needed to hear him say it.

“You’re saying I can stay here?” you asked in a lower voice, almost a whisper, . You couldn’t think straight, your head was a mess, did he really mean it?

“I’m telling you can move here, you can go live with your cousin. I’ll support you if that’s what you want.” And like that your dreams had magically become true.

“Thank you so much dad!” you screamed excitedly and throwed yourself on him to give him a hug. You hear exploded with happiness to the point you were pretty sure you could pass out. It was really happening.

“We could go the marsh?” Kie proposed but it was followed by a group groan. They were all just laying all over the living room, drowning in self pity, trying to find something else to do for the rest of the day so they could take their minds off of your departure, but no one was in the mood for anything.

JJ had arrived an hour ago and told them he was able to say goodbye. That made everyone happy but not long after they went back to their blue mood.

“Surfing? I heard there are going to be good waves today.” John B was the next one to propose something but it had the same response. No one felt like doing anything but at the same time they didn’t want to stay there all sad and sorrowful thinking how they wouldn’t see you again for months. They went back to silent, thinking of another activity until there was a knock on the door that surprised everyone.

“Is someone else’s dad coming to take them away to another country?” Pope joked but it was definitely too soon for those jokes.

“I’ll go.” Kie said standing up since she was the one closest to the door. She’d never had expected to open it to see you standing on the porch, suitcase in hand and smile on your face. “Y/N?!” she said once she got out of her shock.

“What?!” the rest of the group almost shouted. JJ almost jumped off his sit to the door at the mention of your name. He was followed closely by the rest, they needed to see if Kie had suddenly began hallucinating or something.

“You didn’t think you’d get rid of me that easily.” you said, unable to take the smile off your face.

“I’m so confused.” was all Kie was able to say.

“I’ll explain later what matter now is I’m here and I’m here for good.” you told them, but nothing changed, they stayed by the door looking at you shocked.

“You’re moving here?” Sarah asked like she needed some kind of verbal confirmation.

“Yes!” you said happily but still nothing changed. They definitely didn’t see this coming. It was like their brains were slowly processing what was going on and what you meant. “Now is when you hug me and we cheer and laugh because we’re so happy-” you started to say jokingly  but were cut off when without any warning all of them threw themselves at you into what intended to be group hug but ended up being a pile of human bodies on the porch’s floor because you lost your balance. “Now this is what I meant.” you said laughing out of breath because of the fall and because you had at least three bodies on top of you.

They one by one got off of you and then helped you stand up. You could tell they were all really happy to see you and that only made you feel luckier, not only to have them in your life but to be able to stay with them and feel so loved and welcomed. You gave each of them a hug, leaving JJ for the last.

“Welcome home.” he said before pulling you into his arms and as you stood there, on the old porch surrounded by strangers that had become family and family itself, in the arms of the boy you loved, you truly felt at home.

aaaand the fanfic is over! hope you guys liked it i loved writing it! i’m thinking about writing kind of an epilogue but i’m not sure i already like how it ends i dont wanna ruin it with another part

i hope you enjoyed reading it as much as i enjoyed writing it and i hope it helped take your mind off of everything that’s happening right not, it surely helped me feel a little better 

i’ll keep on writing but probably shorter things so if you want me to keep on tagging you whenever i post something about obx or jj let me know!

once again thank u so so so much for reading!!!

taglist:

@sspidermanss - @downbytheouterbanks -  @alexa-playafricabytoto - @dolanfivsosxox - @styles-xoxo - @iamaunicorn4704 - @atomicpunkrock - @zukosvice - @http-cherries - @wherearemysock - @ramblingsnfandom - @eviction-notice-no666 - @daygiowvibe - @thelonelyumbrella - @casualcolorstarfish - @idkanymoremansstuff - @my-heroine - @lcvebvg - @moose-munch - @imagines-and-preferences1216 -  @jmac1240 - @krazykatkay456 - @poguestyleskye -  @smileyxdolans -  @asprinkleofloving  - @elioelioeli0 - @edgyben -  @jjswhore - @i-mmunity - @screeching-student-unknown - @baileythepenguin​ - @timotaychalabae​ - @annedub​ - @wine-fine-like​ - @realistic-breadstick​ - @raekenliar​ - @aaleksmorozova​ - @hmspogueobx​ - @harryunsolved​ - @sw-eat-ing​ - @thatsonobx​ - @shreyaodedra06​ - @readysteadygo23​ - @masintahin​ - @julialucena5​ - @awkwardnesshabitat​ - @httpglxssy​ - @lonely-kermit​ - @diary-of-another-stupid-bitch​ - @kisssmefree​ - @fanboy-sloth​ - @thefangirl05​ - @blueevelvt​ - @little-ms-awkward​ - @fanficscuziranout​ - @helplessquotess​ - @loliismutt​ - @tiredfeels​ - @s1gnofthet1mes​ - @laubluered​ - @justcallmesams​ - @hotel-colson​ - @tomzfrog​ - @kookkyra​ - @roamingmarauder​ - @grxysgxrl​ - @write-from-the-heart​ - @ijustreallylovethem​ - @yeehaw87​ - @rockyyc77​ - @lovely-lynns-likes​ -  @danicarosaline​ - @silverstarsandsuns​ - @lopineapples - @otrbnks​ - @hannahrisacher​ -  @sammy0927​ - @p0gue420​ - @bxbyyyjocelyn​ - @pancakefancake​ - @bolaurel​ - @outerbnx-stiles​ - @x-lulu​ - @bluzklus​ - @jeyramarie​ - @mendesmaybank​ - @queenofthebees003​ -  @lukesvinyll​ - @paradigmax​ - @lustgardn​ - @haharudy​ - @valentina-007​ - @talksoprettyjjx​ - @agirlwholovescoffee​ - @lus-shh​ - @eternalangst1111​ - @jeyramarie​ - @holy-spn​ - @everestharry​ - @fangirlvoice​ - @jjsmaybcnk​ - @sweetlysilent​ - @mitchloveswriting​ - @merchantjjreply​

[daybreak-delusion]

OUTER BANKS GOT RENEWED FOR A SECOND SEASON AND I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS POSTER!!

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 9

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade, she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

Series Masterlist

Previous chapter 

I want to say that on Sunday I was totally independent and was totally not missing the presence of a certain golden boy at all, but I’d be lying to myself. It wasn't a complete waste of the day though. I did manage to drive the Bee (my new nickname for the Volkswagen) to the hardware store that I saw yesterday and picked up some essentials for fixing up the house. Blue tape, a bunch of paintbrushes and rollers, a couple of gallons of primer and white paint, drop cloths, this anti-rust spray for the garage, about a million trash bags, and some other items that I had to pre-order. The store had limited options for paint so I had to order some from a manual and it would be coming later this week. I figured I would stick to the yellow/lemon theme that she had going on and picked a shade of light yellow. Since the paint should be arriving in a week I had time to get everything situated. Somehow I managed to shove everything into the Bee and make it home. I mean back to the Lemon House. Back at the house, I placed all of my new equipment on the back porch and then headed to the garage. My task for today was going to be cleaning out the garage. I parked the Bee closer to the house so I could have more space and started to realize the trouble I was in. There was just so much junk and the last thing I wanted to do was find the pests that had made a mess of the place. I decided to change into a more suitable outfit for the deep cleaning I was about to do. After switching my sandals for some sneakers and putting on some leggings I made my way back to the garage with a trash can, recycling bin, and a box of trash bags. It was gonna be a long day. 

The boxes were filled with all kinds of things. There were old suitcases filled with clothes, rusty pans with ancient stains on them, old fashioned jewelry, and a bunch of old photographs that were in good shape. I was really conflicted about what to get rid of and what to keep. I decided to ditch the pans and pots seeing that they were out of shape. I kept the clothes in case there was a thrift store I could donate them too. Most of the stuff could also be given to thrift stores or antique shops, but there was one box underneath this ancient-looking blanket that seemed different from the others. First of all, it was an actual wooden box, not like the cardboard boxes that had held all of the other items. Unfortunately, there was a lock on the box and it wouldn't open. I didn’t want to break it in case I broke something in the box. Then I remembered the bulletin board where I found the car keys. Walking over to it there were a bunch of different labels for different keys, but one of them didn’t have a label. I figured it was my best bet. Thankfully it was a pretty good bet. When I opened it, a disgusting spider the size of one of Grandmother's lemons crawled out and I bolted out of the garage screaming, knocking over a few boxes in the process. It took me a couple of minutes to calm down and I reluctantly walked back into the garage with a baseball bat I found in my hands. I was shaking as I started to open the box again until I was sure the spider had disappeared. In the box were a bunch of misshapen things covered in old linen cloth and unfortunately spiderwebs. Not wanting to be in the pest infested room anymore I decided to take a break and bring the chest on to the porch. It was a lot lighter than I expected and stained my gray shirt with dust. I placed it on the porch and went inside to grab a damp cloth to clean off the dust. Sitting on the porch I cleaned the box and opened it again. The first misshapen item was a gold locket in good condition, I was excited to see what was in the compartment only to find it empty. The next item was a silver ring with a crop of wheat engraved on it. It was a bit bulky for my taste and definitely had belonged to a man at one point. I slipped it onto my thumb and thought it looked nice with the rest of the rings that I had on. Then at the bottom of the box was an old cracked leather journal with yellow pages. On the bottom right-hand corner the name Elenora Stanton was engraved in gold letters. I instantly knew this stuff belonged in a museum or something the date on the first page was from April 1843. 

“Holy shit,” I whispered to myself stroking my hand across the faded ink. The writing was in a small cursive that I could barely make out. It would be easier to read with a magnifying glass. I carefully wrapped the leather-bound book in the white cloth and placed it back into the box. Walking inside I cleared a space for it on the table and set the box down. Thankfully from my knife search when I was making lemonade I got an idea of where everything was in the kitchen and I remembered seeing a magnifying glass in a drawer with a bunch of other random items. I brought it over to the table and opened the old book again. Thank god Mother made me practice writing in cursive or this would have been a nightmare. 

23 April 1843

Dear friend as of today, I am eighteen years of age and now get to embark on the responsibilities of an adult. I had received many good wishes of health and good tidings for my birthday and my dearest younger sister Juliana gifted me my most favored gift, this diary. I was also gifted a new church dress from Mother and Father and Aunt Alice promised to take me into town to buy a new corset. She said that all adult women should own a suitable corset and if I am to live with her and Uncle Harry this summer it would be an absolute necessity for me to own one. Mother wishes I would stay home and help care for my younger siblings, but I find it absurd that she puts the task of looking after them on me. If Mother feels too overwhelmed with her offspring then she should simply just hire a nanny. I pray that whoever she hires will be able to keep her sanity after a week of working with my siblings or perhaps Juliana will have to bear my burdens. No matter I mustn’t worry about my family anymore. I am an adult as of today and now am able to focus on the wishes of my own heart. In all truthfulness, my wishes are few in number, but this summer I hope to make more. Aunt Alice says that Outer Banks is a marvelous island and I count the days until we depart. Nonetheless, I still have time to prepare for my departure, till next time dear friend! 

30 April 1843

Dear friend this week has been excruciating. Father is beginning to go back on his promise to let me live with Aunt Alice this upcoming summer. He is skeptical of the owner of the island being a colored man and all, but Aunt Alice says that to be truly Christian we must see and treat all people as the children of God and that my father is little-minded. I would never speak to Father with such forwardness so to help my case I have been taking on extra tasks and duties around our home. Juliana has been accompanying me in my tasks as she will be taking over my responsibilities as I predicted. She is quite a quick learner and I’m sure she will be able to manage all of my duties when I leave for the summer. Today we- 

The rest of this entry was just explaining all of the chores that Elenora and Juliana had to do on a daily basis. I was incredibly fascinated with the diary and was confused as to why it was in Grandmother's garage? I am interrupted from my thoughts by a buzz coming from my phone on the table. I placed a stray piece of paper where I left off and reached for my phone. Checking my phone I noticed a text from an unknown number. 

U/N: Hey Whitney it’s Sarah! My friends and I are going to the beach tomorrow afternoon! I remember you said your board was coming in tomorrow, but if you don’t have it yet John B has an extra one you could borrow! BTW this is nonnegotiable you are coming! We’ll be by at 1. See ya then!

Oh thank god, I was so scared it was going to be Rose Cameron inviting me over for brunch or something. 

Also, my mom wants to know if you can do brunch sometime.

Great. Oh well, I guess there could be worse things than free food. 

Me: Tell your mother that brunch this Saturday will be fine and I would love to go to the beach with you guys! About the board, I’ll be sure to let you know if I need it or not. 

Sarah: Sounds like a plan and be by your dock at 1

Me: Got it see you then! 

I was excited to finally have plans that didn't involve me having to wear a dress. I just hope that my board would get in before the afternoon, I’d hate to have to be a bother. I eyed the journal and decided to continue reading. What else did I have to do? 

The next few entries were about Elenora’s daily life. Taking care of her siblings, washing the laundry, having tea with her mother’s sewing group, and walking through town with her friends. It was starting to become boring until an entry from June 3rd. 

3 June 1843

Dear friend today is the day! I am finally leaving this simple town and am leaving with Aunt Alice and Uncle Harry to The Outer Banks of North Carolina. My soul has reached happiness beyond my comprehension. All of those days of labor around the house finally served a purpose in my measly life. Now I will be embarking to a new place where hopefully anything can happen. Nonetheless, I will not be staying there without a purpose, I am to work in Uncle Harry’s tailor shop mending minor rips and sewing on buttons and such. Mother and father are still reluctant for me to leave our household, but Aunt Alice is most persuasive especially when her favorite niece is involved. We will leave today at noon and then will stay in a tavern closer to the ferry we will take tomorrow. I am just jittery with excitement, this will be a new area for me to explore and I cannot wait to see where it takes me!  Till next time dear friend!

It was so strange that this lady, Elenora, was so excited to come to Outer Banks, and just two days ago this was the last place I wanted to be. Maybe I was being a bit ungrateful, maybe this place had more to offer than it seemed. I was absolutely fascinated with the diary, but for real why did Grandmother have it? Maybe she bought it in an auction or it was a gift or something. Looking at my phone for the time I realize it’s a quarter past 1 and I still need to clean out the rest of the garage. Sighing, I closed the diary with a makeshift bookmark and left the house. Bagging up the clothes took the longest, but with the music playing, I didn’t really mind it that much. I had also gotten used to the heat, kind of, so it wasn't completely unbearable. After cleaning everything out and dusting some of the hard to reach corners I decided to power wash the garage. It was disgusting, but it had to be done. The garage was still wet so I decided to bring the remaining boxes to the porch. I was definitely done cleaning for the night and needed some relaxation time. So I cooked up some pasta and steamed vegetables and sat down for dinner. As I was eating my lonely feelings were coming back to me. I was craving company and turned to the diary for something to do. 

10 June 1843 

Dear friend, I have been staying with Aunt Alice and Uncle Harry for a week now and it has been a thrilling experience. On the ferry ride to the island Uncle Harry let us sit on the top deck and it was exhilarating leaning over the edge to see the water. The shop that Uncle Harry owns is the only tailor shop on the island so they are always busy. We stay in the apartment space above the shop and one of the windows in the parlor gives the most breathtaking view of the ocean. It is so vast and wide that I feel as if I am a small button on a white collared shirt. The apartment is quaint, but I have my very own quarters! There is so much space that I felt quite foolish when I only had my small bag to fill up the drawers. However, Aunt Alice says that if customers are satisfied with their work they sometimes pay extra and that I can keep the excess money for myself! Me owning my own money! It will truly be thrilling I know it. I pray that my skills will be adequate for the shop and that I will exceed my skills. There is still more work to be done, so until next time dear friend! 

19 June 1843

Dear friend, I  thought that my experiences here on this island could not have been better, but I was proven wrong! This week has been most eventful. It all began on Monday the 13th in the tailor shop. Denmark Tanny, the owner of practically the whole island, came into the shop. He was accompanied by his eldest son Robert Tanny and as they were discussing business with Uncle they mentioned the expertise work on the stitching of a new suit and it was my own work! Thankfully Uncle gave me the credit and I had the pleasure to make their acquaintances. They were truly delightful people and invited us to tea that coming Wednesday at their residence at Tannyhill. Their home was the most gorgeous sight I have ever seen in my existence. It was a mansion. I felt so quaint in my three-year-old Easter dress compared to the lavish home. The Tanny family was most welcoming and tea went by too fast. The conversation was most interesting, although I did not speak much. They talked of the economy and politics and I was too mature on the subject. However what was most interesting was during the conversation I prayed my mind was not presuming it, but Robert kept looking in my direction. Looking back on the occasion I should not be assuming such things, but one cannot help themselves when the presence of an attractive male is in the room. When he smiles I feel nothing, but sunshine and complete bliss. The feeling magnifies when he smiles in my direction. I was anticipating our next meeting, however, Mr. Tanny did not come into Uncle’s shop for the rest of the week. Not all hope was lost however because today after our church services Robert Tanny asked to accompany me on my walk home. I almost fainted with excitement, however, I kept up my studious facade and accepted. On the pathway home, we talked of nature and the ocean. To my disappointment we arrived at the shop rather quickly however, Robert promised to take me to the beach to search for shells so that I may decorate my quarters. I am counting the second until this Thursday comes along. Until next time dear friend! 

I wanted to keep reading, but I noticed it was past midnight and I still had a lot to do tomorrow. JJ would be by and I had a list of things for him to get done. I also needed to get enough rest if I was going to go surfing and I didn’t want to be the one lagging behind. Elenora’s diary was just gonna have to wait. As I fell asleep I tried to imagine myself in Elenoras place, wonderstruck about Outer Banks, and starting a relationship with a true gentleman. Oh, how things have changed. Still, the name Tanny sounded really familiar to me, especially their house, Tannyhill. This all did take place on Outer Banks, so maybe some of the places Elenora was talking about still exist. I would have to save it for another day because for now, I needed as much beauty sleep as I could get.

a/n: Hey guys sorry I haven’t updated in a while I am on vacation and have been going through a bit of writers block. But I am revived and am so excited to finish this story. Also like PLOT TWIST can’t wait for you guys to read what’s next! I’m still on vacation so I’ll try to update when I can.

[daybreak-delusion]

Thanks for giving me a chance ❤

[daybreak-delusion]

Series Masterlist

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother’s properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina. As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother’s infamous lemonade, she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems. 

A/N: This is my fic ever so please bear with me as I try to figure everything out! This is a mega slow burn so if you’re into that kinda ish this is for you! 

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 8

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade, she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems. 

Series Masterlist 

Previous Chapter

The drive back from The Wreck was as smooth as a ride in an old Volkswagen could be. It wasn’t that bad of a sight either. Through the trees, I could catch glimpses of the beach and water. I could make out little surfers trying to catch waves, fishermen trying to haul in their catches, and tourists getting sunburnt on their towels. I decided to stop at the park I saw on my way to The Wreck and eat my lunch. There were large tall trees good for climbing surrounding a playset with a couple of benches and picnic tables. I sat on a bench closer to the playset and dug in. JJ wasn’t kidding this sandwich was exactly what I needed to get over my hunger and my fires? Oh my god, I could kill for another batch. There were a couple of kids playing on the playset that looked like a lawsuit waiting to happen. They were oblivious to their danger however as they played tag around the swing set. I honestly couldn’t remember the last time I had as much fun as those kids were and wondered if I’d ever be that happy again. On that depressing note, I decided to leave so their mothers wouldn’t peg me as a pedophile. 

Before heading back to the Lemon House I looked up a market to get some groceries. The store didn’t have the biggest variety, but I got what I needed: pasta, fruits, vegetables, beans, almonds, rice, Skinny Pop, and other kinds of snacks. If I planned my meals correctly I should have enough for the rest of the month. I also took note of the hardware store that was next to it and decided I would come back tomorrow for paint and other supplies for touching up the house. When I got back it took a couple of trips, but I finally got all the groceries inside. I walked outside with JJ’s burger to see the golden boy throwing away a bag of weeds. 

“Hey, Golden Boy!” I yelled walking over to him. 

“Ah miss Sunshine how was The Wreck,” he replied, wiping off some sweat on his face with the bottom of his shirt giving me a view of his incredibly toned abs. I assumed he had a good body based on the look of his arms, but hot damn this boy could be a Greek god. What I would do to get his boy to let me put- 

“Hello,” JJ yelled, snapping his fingers at me, “how was The Wreck?” 

“Hm oh yeah, it was fine,” I stupidly replied, praying that he didn’t notice my ogling, “Um I got you a burger, Kie said it was your favorite.” 

“Aww Sunshine you didn’t have to do that,” he said grabbing the bag and scarfing down the burger. 

“No problem, so you get everything done?” I asked him, taking his trash. I ignored the voice in the back of my head praying that he still had more stuff to do. 

“Yeah I just finished up for the day, unless you have any other pressing matters you need me to satisfy,” he teased, giving me his heart-melting smirk. I would have been more smitten if he didn’t have a piece of lettuce in his teeth. 

“In your dreams Golden Boy,” I tried to say confidently, but it came out more like a stutter. 

“Every night Sunshine.” 

“We met yesterday dummy, remember that you still work for me so keep your dreams at bay.” 

“Whatever you say, boss lady, don’t miss me too much tomorrow,” he said as we walked over to the front of the house. 

“Trust me I’ll be able to manage,” I said as we approached a rusty, red dirt bike, “I’ll have your new schedule by Monday, you still good with helping me fix up a couple of things around the house right?” 

“Yeah, yeah sure thing, but you’ll pay me extra right?” he clarified, raising his eyebrows. 

“Yes JJ I’m true to my word, but it probably won't be as much as my Grandmother paid you. Is $15 an hour okay?” 

“Eh, I don’t know about that Sunshine. My price per hour is a little bit higher than that.” 

“Don’t play me JJ minimum wage here is like $7 be lucky I’m not giving you $10.” 

“Fine, fine can't blame me for trying,” he said climbing on to the bike, “see ya later Sunshine!” 

And just like that, he was off down the road with a cloud of dust behind him. I couldn't help but notice the sad feeling in my chest as I watched this boy drive away. God, what was wrong with me, I had met him what? Yesterday? This was ridiculous. But it wasn’t until JJ was gone when I realized how lonely I actually was. I’ve had my share of loneliness of course, but I always had someone to be there for me whether it was a teacher or the librarian or even Grandmother sometimes. But now she was gone and here I was longing for the company of a boy that almost went to juvie. Great. 

Pushing my feelings down I turned back to the house and went inside. In the kitchen, the lemons had been placed in a white bowl on the counter by a certain Golden Boy. I was then filled with energy as I remembered what task I had planned to take on today: making Grandmother’s lemonade. How hard could it be right? Apparently really fucking hard. 

First of all, it took me forever to find a knife of all things. Then I had to find a bowl or a jug or something to put the lemon juice in. Then I had to look up a YouTube video on how to juice the freakin lemons and on top of that my first try, I squirted lemon juice in my eye which was absolutely agonizing. After that it went kinda smoothly, I added water and some sugar and was finally finished. Too bad it tasted horrible. It had too much pulp in it and was so sour my eyes started watering. I had to spit out the poison I had made into the sink. Giving up I dumped the rest of the liquid and started to clean up my mess. While washing dishes I looked out the window above the sink outside to see an amazing sunset. The sky was a gorgeous orange color that took up the whole sky. It was breathtaking. Dusk was always my favorite time of the day. Everything and everyone seems to be calmer as the day winds to an end. After I finished cleaning up my failure I decided to turn in for the night, but not before making a plan for the house. 

I had planned on using the money that I had inherited from Grandmother to pay for the refurbishing of the house and to pay JJ. Now, Grandmother had mostly taken care of everything in the house, but the outside was another story. Firstly the whole house inside and out needed a good dusting. The house also needed a new coat of paint along with the garage. Speaking of the garage it needed to be cleaned out and I was even debating tearing it down and just building a new one, but I vetoed that idea. The garden in the front of the house along with the flower boxes needed to be replanted which would be easy. The back porch was nice, but I wanted to see what I could do with it. Maybe paint the porch and get some new furniture. It definitely needed some sort of fan or cooling system, but we’ll get there when we get there. I also hadn’t seen the greenhouse up close, but I could tell it needed a good wash. It would take a while, but hopefully, JJ would be a good help. Maybe he could help me in other ways too. Stop. But why? Because I barely know this guy and it’s not like I’m an expert in flirting or making boys fall for me and why am I even considering this? He’s working for me if I hooked up with him that would only complicate everything. There were also my suspicions about Kie and JJ and the last thing I wanted to become was a homewrecker. Emotions and relationships are not my cup of tea and I’m just here for the summer. Well, the summers not over yet! This is going to be a long month.

a/n: Poor Whitney so lonely, but that’ll change soon! thank you so much for reading I cannot express how excited I get when people like my chapters, it really mean a lot to me! Only one chapter today, but the next one will take a turn! Stay tuned!  

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 7

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade, she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems. 

Series Masterlist 

Previous Chapter

After the long walk home I took a shower, finally, and went straight to bed. It had been an excruciatingly long day and I was ready for some sleep. Thankfully the next morning I wasn’t awakened by the annoying sound of a lawnmower. I took a shower to clean off my sleep and changed into some shorts and a simple blouse. The one good thing about the humidity is that it was making my normally frizzy curly hair look normal. Back in my room after looking around at my mess, I decided that would be a cleaning day. I put on my headphones and shuffled my cleaning playlist and got to work. I started with my room, unpacking my bags, finally, and organizing my clothes in the closet. Then I moved to the bathroom, cleaning the mirrors, countertops, and disinfecting the shower and toilet with some cleaner I found in the kitchen. I spent three seconds debating whether or not to go into Grandmother’s room and then turned into the living room. I vacuumed, dusted, and disinfected some more. The kitchen was the worst, I kept sneezing from all of the dust when Fernando by ABBA came on. Oh my god, this was my song. I picked up a spoon and pretended to sing to my adoring fans. 

“There was something in the air that night, the stars were bright, Fernando!” I was practically screaming by the time the chorus came on, dancing to the beat like a maniac. 

“They were shining there for you and me for liberty-” 

“Hey, sunshine!” yelled a voice from behind me. Screaming I turned around and saw JJ leaning against the back door frame. He was wearing the same tacky shorts as yesterday and a white t-shirt with some fishing company logo on it. 

“How long have you been standing there?” I said, taking off my headphones blush creeping on to my face. 

“Not long, I’m here to pick the lemons and just need to get a bag,” explained JJ walking towards the pantry getting a reusable bag out. 

“Oh right do you need any help?” 

“Oh no I’m good, wouldn't want to cut your little concert short.” 

“Ha, ha,” I laughed sarcastically, “be sure to bring them back, I’m thinking of trying Grandmother's lemonade recipe.” 

“Really?” he stopped before heading out the door giving me a quizzical look. 

“Yeah, I was thinking about making a batch for good measure.” 

“Well good luck with that, Vicky was really particular about the way she made her lemonade.” 

“Oh, I think I can handle a little lemonade.”

“If you say so, I’ll be in the greenhouse,” he said humming the chorus of Fernando on his way out the door.  When he left I shook off my embarrassment and I turned back to dusting the shelves. After a while, I realized how hungry I was. The only food that I’ve had was dinner last night with the Camerons and the only food in the house was some stale saltine crackers and beer, which was kinda concerning but I tried not to look too into it. One thing was for sure, I needed food. Like now. Thankfully just as I was about to try my luck with the saltines, JJ walked back in with a bag full of lemons. 

“I only got about 10 this batch but next week we should get about triple,” said JJ walking in through the back door. He placed the bag on the counter and reached into the fridge to grab a beer. 

“Thank you, also do you by any chance know of anywhere to eat?” 

“Um yeah my friend’s family owns a restaurant, it’s called The Wreck, they got great sandwiches. It’s about two miles into town.” 

“Sounds perfect, you want anything?” 

“Uh no, no I’m good just tell Kie I said hi,” he said taking a swing of his beer as he walked towards the back door. 

“Do you ever drink water?” I asked. 

“Not if I can help it sunshine,” he replied with a wink walking out the door. 

That boy was going to die of liver failure if he kept his drinking habits up. A problem he’d have to deal with. In the meantime I needed food. That’s how my search for transportation started. No way was I gonna ask for a ride from Rafe and I’m pretty sure JJ just materializes everywhere, so I had to either walk or find another way. 

Another thing I was oblivious too when I first arrived was the garage to the left of the house. Hopefully, Grandmother left a bike or even a skateboard for me. I walked the dirt path to the old little garage. It’s kinda how I imagined what the house would have looked like if I’m being honest. It was even more faded yellow then the house with a rusty white painted garage door. Cobwebs were everywhere. I was terrified that I would have to encounter the creatures that made them. I was half expecting the handle to fall off when I pulled the door up. It opened with an ear-piercing screech and a cloud of dust. When I stopped coughing my lungs out I saw it. A vintage yellow Volkswagen beetle with a rack on top for surfboards surrounded by at least 50 cardboard boxes. I just stared at it for a few seconds admiring the car. I’m not exactly an expert on automobiles or whatever, but something about vintage cars really got me going. On the left of the garage was a bulletin board with a couple of keys tacked to it labeled with different things. I found the one that said car and prayed that the thing would start. The outside of the car was covered in dust, but thankfully the inside was a little cleaner. The only problem was that the car was a stick. Now I haven't driven stick in two years. Grandmother always said any person with a brain could drive automatic, but it took a real driver to learn stick. It was a miracle the car started in the first place and all I had to do was pray I remembered how to drive it. 

I only stalled a couple of times in the beginning, but eventually got in the grove of changing the gears. As I drove I was hoping I was imagining it but people seemed to be looking at my car as if it were on fire. I’m pretty sure I would know if my car was on fire or not so I kept going. Eventually, I found the little restaurant and pulled into a parking spot. The Wreck was just preparing for rush hour when I walked in. The floor was worn by the many footsteps that had walked into this establishment. The walls were decorated with pictures that looked as old as the restaurant and stickers from different surf shops and fishing companies. What I noticed most of all was the salty and intoxicating smell of freshly made french fries. I was practically salivating when a girl about my age approached me. 

“Welcome to The Wreck, what can I get for you,” she said with a tired, but genuine smile. She had her dark curly hair tied up in a messy bun with an old gray headband keeping her flyaways out of her face and was wearing a dark green bikini top under her tank top with the logo of the restaurant on it. 

“Hi, I hear you guys got great sandwiches,” I replied. If my instincts were correct this girl was Kie, JJ’s friend. 

“Yeah, we got tuna, turkey, roast beef, and our specialty lobster.” 

“Do you actually have any vegetarian options?” 

“Oh, you’re a vegetarian? So am I!” she said with a little more energy in her voice. 

“Yeah have been for the past two years.” 

“Wow I started about three years ago and am trying to make the switch to veganism.” 

“Good for you!” 

“Thank you! Most of my friends make fun of me for it, but I just can't stand the thought of eating a living creature. Anyways just one vegetarian sandwich?” 

“Yes please and some fries as well, also I’m sorry if this is too weird to ask , but are you Kie by any chance?” 

“Uhh yeah how did you know that?” she replied giving me a look that said, “who is this weirdo and how does she know my name?” 

“Okay cool, I’m Whitney and your friend JJ works… I mean worked for my grandmother.” 

“Oh my god, no way your Vicky’s granddaughter of course!” she said the look she was giving me melting into a smile,” I knew I recognized your car from somewhere, your grandma would come in here every Sunday for brunch, there gotta be a picture of her on the wall if you wanna look. She was such a sweet lady. JJ mentioned that you were in town I don’t know why I didn’t put that together and you had dinner with Sarah’s family yesterday right?”  

“Yeah I did, she has an interesting family.”

“God tell me about it, her brother is a piece of work.” 

It seemed like everyone had some kind of beef with Rafe.

“I had to spend the afternoon with him yesterday and it was excruciating. Thankfully JJ saved me.” 

“He saved you? Usually he’s the one to get people in trouble.” 

“Yeah I heard something like that, but so far he’s proven his usefulness.”

“Well I’m glad he hasn't screwed you over yet,” she said noticing the lunch rush was about to start, “So just the sandwich and fries?” 

“Yeah and just whatever JJ usually gets, he’s over working right now and I figure I’d get him something to consume that wasn't a cheap beer and make it to go please.” 

“Alrighty then a vegetarian sandwich with a side of fries and a The Barrel Roll Burger coming right up. That’ll be $15.25.” 

I pulled out a twenty and put the change into the jar when she was looking the other way. While a man, who I assumed was Kie’s father, was making my order I looked at all of the old photographs and stickers on the wall. I failed to find any of Grandmother but a newer looking polaroid stood out to me. It was of a group of teenagers sitting around a table in the restaurant. I recognized Kie, Sarah, and JJ with two other handsome looking boys. Geez what was in the water on this island, everyone seemed to be incredibly attractive. JJ was shoving some sort of food in Kie’s face while Sarah and one of the boys were pretending to make out, I assumed it was her boyfriend John B, while the other boy just looked straight into the camera like he was on The Office or something. They all looked happy and seemed to be enjoying their afternoon. I couldn't help but notice how close Kie and JJ were and a twinge of jealousy sparked in my stomach. 

“Order up Whitney!” called Kie with a brown bag in her hand. 

“Thank you!” I replied, “You have no idea how hungry I am.” 

“Well come by anytime, we got the best food on the island,” she said with a smile. 

“I sure will, thanks again!” I said walking out the door and towards my car.

a/n: So yeah apparently Whitney gets turned on by cars. Anyways thank you so much for reading! I absolutely LOVE writing and although sometimes it gets frustrating or I start to doubt wether I should continue or not I just keep going because I love it. Next chapter will be up Wednesday so stay tuned! Thanks again! 

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 6

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade, she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems. 

Series Masterlist 

Previous Chapter

I was trying to keep up with Sarah’s pace as she headed towards a stone path lined with rose bushes away from the lights and noise of the country club. The smell of salt was starting to get stronger so I could only assume that we were headed towards the beach. 

“God, I thought we’d never hear the end of what hook to use for deep sea fishing,” said Sarah, annoyance in her voice. As we kept walking on the path the beach came into view. It would have been a dark night but there were no clouds in the sky and the moon was full and making the ocean light up. 

“Um look Sarah it was nice to meet you and everything, but what are we doing?” I asked, starting to get a little weird out. I had just met this girl a little over an hour ago and for half of the time that I knew her I thought she hated me. 

“We’re just walking to the Lemon House,” she said nonchalantly.  

“We’re walking!?” 

“Hey it’s good exercise and I could tell that you would rather walk home than get in a car with my brother again,” she said now heading towards the general direction on the house.

“Very true, I just don’t think he likes me that much,” I said. 

“Ha consider yourself lucky, then you’d actually have to talk to him.”

“I’m good I don't think I can talk about fishing anymore after tonight.” We were walking along the shore now en route to the Lemon House. 

“Oh my god, that’s what my whole life is and it’s only gotten worse since he’s gotten back from college.” 

“I truly do feel bad for you.” 

“Don’t be, they’re my family. I have to love them.” 

“Yeah I guess, families are weird, mine thinks that every conversation needs to include an argument, mainly about the person they’re sleeping with.” 

“Wow hold on, your family discusses that with you in the room?”

“Yeah my family has messed up morals, but like you said have to love them.” 

“Geez that’s awful,” she said. As we walked I looked over to the ocean, mesmerized by the way the moonlight reflected on the water. 

“So did you mean what you said about the Killer Whales at SeaWorld?” Sarah asked, pulling me away from the view of the water.

“Oh, that’s not even the half of it,” was the beginning of my rant about ocean life, after that we talked more about other environmental issues. The rainforest, oil spills, and illegal hunting. 

“I mean it’s disgusting what those stupid clown people do to those poor animals,” Sarah continued throwing her hands in the air. 

“I know! Did you know that in Germany they started using holograms instead of real animals in their circuses, it’s an amazing show.” 

“Wait have you been?”

“Yeah we went last summer with my grandmother, she was all about keeping things eco-friendly.”

“She sounds like a great lady,” Sarah says, “Everyone was really upset about her passing.” 

“Yeah I didn’t realize the impact she had here, JJ was telling me about it.” 

“Wait JJ,” she said turning to look at me with a confused look on her face, “JJ Maybank? When did you meet him?” 

“Oh he was mowing my lawn this morning, apparently he works for me now. Do you know him?” 

“Oh yeah I do, I mean I don’t think we're considered besties more like acquaintances. He’s practically brothers with my boyfriend.” 

“Interesting. Now please correct me if I’m wrong, but aren't you technically a Kook and JJ’s a Pouge? So how did you two become friends or I mean acquaintances with him?” 

“Ah oh my god, do I have a story for you, Whitney.” So as we were starting to pass what I could only assume were Kook mansions Sarah explained the story of the Royal Merchant and how her and her Scooby gang tried to find it. Unfortunately, the trail dried up and the treasure was never found. 

“Then after we were shot at by that old hag it turns out there was nothing down there in the first place. Everyone was crushed about it. I thought John B would never recover, he stayed cooped up in his house for like two weeks I don’t even know if he ate anything. He looked like a ghost when he finally left his room.” 

John B had been Sarah’s boyfriend since their adventure into the archives at their local university. It was a cute story and brought to light why the Camerons had gone silent at the mention of Sarah’s friends. They don't really approve of the relationship or her new friends but were too proud to admit their opinions. 

“Wait I thought he was staying at your house?” 

“He was until his uncle finally showed up after hearing the news about John B. He talked to Child Services then John B and his uncle moved back to the chateau. Ever since John B turned 18 though his uncle moved out and JJ moved in with him.” 

“Wow, I thought stories like that only happened in movies or poorly written Netflix originals.” 

“Nah it’s a big deal around here and for real don't joke about it, two mainlanders died when the trail was hot.” 

“Oh my god, seriously? That’s insane.” 

“Tell me about it, that week was both the best and worst week of my life,” she said with distraught in her voice. 

“Geez, you guys have been through so much. I can’t believe JJ actually almost went to jail.” 

“Oh yeah that was the weirdest part we were all nervous about his bail, but it was paid for anonymously.” 

“Wait what? Who just decides to pay 30K for some kid to get out of jail?”

“I don’t know, but I swear even after someone gave him the biggest break of the century he hasn't changed a bit. He’s still reckless and still doesn't give a shit about his future.” 

“God that’s kinda insensitive, on his part I mean. I don’t know if it’s morally ethical for me to keep him as my gardener.”

“Don't get me wrong he’s kinda clueless and illogical but he's the hardest worker I know.” 

“I hope so.” The longer I’ve known JJ the more I didn’t know about him. He seemed to have a reputation as a vulgar troublemaker. Why did Grandmother trust him? And why should I? 

“Here we are,” said Sarah as the Lemon House came into view in all of its yellow glory. 

“Wait how are you gonna get home?” I asked the realization that she did not have a car or bike hitting me. 

“Oh don’t worry I’m actually going to head to John B’s house, he lives just a bit over from you.”

“Ahh is that why you really wanted to walk me home?” I asked, raising my eyebrows. 

“Of course not, it’s not like my parents told me I couldn't see my boyfriend tonight and saw an opportunity to see him and took it,” she said batting her eyelashes. 

“Sure, anyways thanks for saving me from another ‘super interesting’ car ride with Rafe.” 

“No problem and Whitney for real don’t worry about JJ he loved working for your grandma and probably won't screw you over.” 

“Thanks Sarah very reassuring, don’t have too much fun with John B, okay?” 

“Hey no promises,” she said with amusement in her voice, “Well until we meet again miss Whitney!” she said in a terrible British accent. 

“Until then!” I replied, throwing in a curtsy. 

As she disappeared into a grove of trees I turned to the path that lead to the house. I had just met Sarah a little less than three hours ago, but I could tell we were going to be good friends. She was carefree and easygoing unlike my few “friends” back home. She also gave me some very good insight into her and her friends' background, especially JJ. They had all been through a lot and I know this was selfish of me to think, but that probably meant they didn’t take too well to outsiders. Still, it couldn't hurt to try to make friends.

a/n: like for real how sad would it have been if John B didn’t find anything in the basement? It would have been uber depressing. Also pls don’t get mad at my jest at the Netflix writers, it’s all fun and games. Anyways I promise JJ comes back in the next chapter! Thank you so much for reading it really means the world to me that people are actually reading what I am writing! Next Chapter up shortly! 

[daybreak-delusion]

You have no idea how much this means to me, THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!

Chapter 1

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother’s properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother’s infamous lemonade she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

It was just like a regular family gathering. Aunt Elizabeth was wearing something that was completely inappropriate for a 50-year-old, cousin Will was shaking from cocaine withdrawals, and my mother was whispering more family gossip into my ear. Not the best circumstances for my grandmother’s funeral, but she wouldn’t have expected much from us.

Keep reading

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 5

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

Series Masterlist

Turns out JJ had been working at the “Lemon House” since he was 12 years old. The local kids had apparently been calling it that since before the dawn of time. The house belonged to Grandmother and her family, it was the only property that had ever been completely hers. During the summertime to make extra money, they would sell fresh-squeezed lemonade. I hadn't noticed it before but in the trees to the right of the house was a small greenhouse with a lemon tree grove inside. After Grandmother married Grandfather she would only come for the month of July and her lemonade stand would be packed. JJ said that it was the best months when “Vicky” would come stay at the house and make fresh lemonade for all of the kids. Apparently, the house was “neutral territory” from the two sides of the island, Figure Eight and the Cut. Figure Eight was home to the Kooks, the rich side of Outer Banks. Apparently, Kooks are stuck up, rich, ruthless brats who never had to work a day in their lives.

“You’d fit right in with them, sunshine,” JJ laughed reaching for another beer out of the ice chest. We were sitting on the dock in front of the Lemon House. After our little confrontation, JJ made another joke about my ass, and then I decided he was alright. Grandmother trusted him, so I trust him. Grandmother had a way of figuring people out. Some called her two-faced but she was just trying to survive. So I decided to give JJ and myself a break by day drinking. I honestly hated controlling people, who didn’t deserve it of course and just wanted to test JJ and see how he would react. 

“Please you don’t even know me,” I stated, sipping some of my beer which had gotten a little warm. I still couldn't believe the heat of this place, it was excruciating. 

“We could fix that you know, get to know each other a little better. I could even think of a few boning exercises we could, uh, participate in,” said JJ with another smirk. He’d been making these kinds of jokes all day and it was getting old. The first few times I felt something in the pit of my stomach, but then realized this is just probably how JJ acted all the time.  

“Ha, ha no thank you. Please continue your East Egg, West Egg story.” 

“I still don’t get your references, but whatever. So the Kooks think that they own the whole island just because they can use their daddies money to buy anything they want.”

“Ew.”

“Ew?”

“Yeah ew that’s gross, why would their parents let them do that? They won't learn anything about the real world and hard work if they piggyback on their parents' wealth.” 

“What and you’re not like that, miss ‘this is my house, my rules,’” said JJ mimicking my voice to sound like a prepubescent boy. 

“Oh shut up, I was just seeing if you would pass the test.” 

“Oh what test, you just wanted an excuse to get close to me.”

“Shut up and finish your story!” I said impatiently. 

“Nuh not until you explain your ‘hard work makes you a better person’ bullshit.”

“Hey hard work does make you a better person, look my family is very well off, obviously, who just gives away houses, but when I turned 18 I was on my own, cut off from my parents and grandparents money. My grandfather grew up in a small mountain town in California with a population of maybe 500 people. During the wintertime, these rich families would come and stay at these fancy resorts where he was a waiter. He worked at that place for eight years. He worked his ass off through college and medical school where he showed he had talent, not because of his parents’ bank account or by how many boats he owned, but by pure talent and it paid off. He had it all: a beautiful wife, three children, and a whole lot of money. Then when my aunt turned 18, she was cut off and had to start over just like he did, but my grandfather taught her and the rest of his children about hard work and dedication. My father taught me the same morals, so growing up while my boarding school friends got to go to parties all the time and go to Vegas for three day weekends I was working as our librarian's assistant. 

“Wait, you went to boarding school?” 

“Really that’s what you got from my story, really?” 

“Yeah pretty much also you were a librarian?”

“I was an assistant librarian, anyways you still need to finish your story! You already told me about the Soches I need to know who the Greasers are.” 

“Are you even speaking English? Anyways the other side of the island, The Cut, is home of the Pogues, the greatest people in the world,” he said with a smirk.

“Oh I’m sure.”

“Anyways we’re basically the bottom of the barrel, low life troublemakers according to everyone else. I don’t really mind it. I like the life I live and wouldn't change it for the world. We get to do what we want whenever we want” 

“Hm sounds nice, but what are your plans for the future” 

“Honestly I thought I would be in jail at this point,” he said completely honestly.

“You’re joking.”

“No, I’m not! I mean two years ago there was this hurricane and some friends and I kinda caught a break and stumbled upon a treasure hunt kinda thing that was supposed to change everything, but it turned out to be a bust,” he said sipping more of his beer. He had a sad look in his eyes so I decided to hold back my Goonies joke and changed the subject. 

“So, Pogues basically live like there's no tomorrow?”

“Yeah, basically. After this summer things are gonna change though.” 

“Why’s that?”

“Well my friends and I all graduated, some are even going to college, but me and my friend John B are just gonna work for a while.”  

“Wait, you graduated high school?” I joked 

“Yeah, I’m not as stupid as I look”

“You sure about that?”

“You’ve known me for, what, a day? Even less? You don’t know me,” he had a satisfied look on his face so I decided to keep my observations to myself. There were still some holes to fill, but I had a pretty good idea of who JJ Maybank was. I was guessing a single household and judging by his crude behavior and drinking habit he probably lived with his father. Past tense, of course, the way he talked about his friend John B’s house made it seem like it was his as well. What I really didn’t want to bring up was the obvious abuse from his father. From the way, he joked, didn’t care about his future, and faded scars suggested that he had either gone to war or had an abusive relative. If he was smart he would go into the Army or the Navy to do something with his life, but JJ seemed more free-spirited than that. So for now I guess he’ll mow Grandmother's lawn. 

“Ha, you’d be surprised how well I can read people,” just then I got the dreaded text saying that Rafe was picking me up in 20 minutes, “ugh I have to go get ready for dinner before you go can you tell me your work schedule?” 

“Oh right yeah,” I wanted to believe that there was disappointment in his eyes, but quickly pushed those thoughts down, “Um I usually mow the lawn once a week, trim the hedges every other week, and weed the garden and pick lemons every other day” 

“What have you been doing with the lemons?” 

“Oh I just take them to the farmers market and sell them”

“Ah, so you’re stealing from my property now?” I teased. 

“Oh no, no it’s not like that I just didn't want them to go to waste I mean I didn't-” 

“JJ it’s okay I’m glad you didn’t just throw them away and put them to good use”

“I tried making her lemonade, but it just didn’t seem right,” he said with a sad tone. I really hoped he was being genuine.  

“Oh well, maybe we can try it again? I’d like to continue the tradition for now. Anyways keep to your regular work schedule and I’ll make up a new one for you by the end of this week. Would you be willing to help out with maintenance work? I’d pay you extra.”

“Yeah, yeah that sounds great and I think I can do that” 

“Okay perfect, when will I see you again?”

“Well I’m free tonight if you want to practice those bonding exercises?” he asked, wiggling his eyebrows and smirking like a fool. A cute fool. Stop it, Whitney! 

“I meant your work schedule dumb-ass, when will you be by again to pull the weeds?” 

“Oh um what day is it again?” 

“It’s Friday.” 

“Oh then I’ll be here tomorrow” 

“Alright see you then,” I said, extending my hand for him to shake. 

“Yeah, um see you then,” JJ awkwardly took my hand like it was a dead fish. 

“Is that really how you shake a person’s hand?” 

“Sorry, you just caught me off guard, who shakes hands anymore?”

“Professionals do JJ, next time I extend my hand to you better have a proper handshake”

“I’m on it your majesty,” he said as he saluted me. 

“Goodbye JJ,” I finally said walking back up the stone path.

“Good luck in Kook Land Whitney,” He yelled to me, smiling like a fool. 

It was the first time he had actually said my name and I had to say I liked the way it sounded. 

I quickly got ready for what was going to be the most awkward dinner of my life. Since I didn’t have time to shower or anything (gross) I pulled my hair back into a sleek bun and pinned up any loose hairs. For make-up, I put on my normal country club look and slipped on a white babydoll dress. I kept jewelry simple small diamond studs, with a matching bracelet, and a silver chain necklace with a wave pendant. The necklace was a gift from Grandmother, the last thing she gave me in person. She said that it was special to her and that it would bring me good karma. A lot of good it was doing now, I was on a divided island and was about to have dinner with a bunch of robots. Just then I got a text: 

Rafe: I’m outside when you’re ready 

A true gentleman.

The drive in Rafe’s truck was silent except for the music playing from a local music station. As we drove through Figure Eight I couldn't help but look at all of the beautiful houses. They were huge compared to the small cottage that I was currently living in. They weren't as big as the mansion my parents had just inherited or even my childhood home, but they were beautiful. We drove along a long driveway that came open to the Island Club. When Rafe finally spoke he told me that the club was also a hotel. It looked like it was out of a fairy tale with its peaked roofs and white windows. We pulled into the valet and a man in a white button-down shirt opened the door for me. I was half expecting Rafe to offer me his arm, but he just trudged ahead. We came to a big dining hall where other rich and important families sat. The Camerons were sitting by the front of the dining hall at a rectangle-shaped table next to a ceiling to floor window. It was dusk and the sun was just starting to set outside. It was weird not seeing the sun sink into the ocean, but the sky looked amazing. I was pulled from the stunning view of Rose Carmen's caked face. 

“Whitney! You look exquisite in that dress,” said Rose standing up to greet me with a hug. She was sitting to the right of Ward who was at the head of the table Next to Rose was a young teenage girl with glasses and dark hair. To Ward’s left sat a girl who looked about my age. She had long straight hair that I would die for and tan skin. She held an uninterested look on her face that told me this was the last place she wanted to be.

“You are too kind Mrs. Cameron, I simply cannot compare to your family tonight,” was my rebuttal to the compliment. I wasn't lying this time, the Camerons were a good looking family. I noticed the sour look on one of Rose’s daughters, wait, step-daughter, as she rolled her eyes at me. 

“Oh honey please just call me Rose and you are too kind,” she sat back down and gestured to an empty chair on the other side of the table. I nodded to Ward and took a seat next to the older looking sister and Rafe sat at the other head of the table. 

“Whitney I’d like to introduce you to the rest of our family, this is Wheezie,” she said gesturing to the glasses-wearing girl to her right. 

“It’s nice to meet you Wheezie,” I said, trying to keep the shock/amusement out of my voice. 

“And this is Sarah,” continued Rose now looking at the girl that was seated to my right, unaware of my struggle to stay professional, “I believe you two are the same age.” 

“It’s nice to meet you, Sarah,” I said, turning to look at the girl trying to be nice. I really did want to try and make friends, even if I was only gonna be here for the summer. 

“Likewise,” replied Sarah. Yup, she definitely wanted to be somewhere else. 

“So Whitney, how are takin’ to the OBX?” Ward asked me. Ah so, the interrogation began. 

“It’s been nice. It’s a lot more humid than California, but I think I’ll get used to it” 

“About California, has your family lived there very long?” interrupted Rose, causing a look from Ward.

“Yes, my father’s company headquarters is in San Diego so I’ve lived there all my life.” 

“San Diego?” Sarah surprisingly interrupted, “that’s where SeaWorld is right?”

“Oh that must be so fun to go too, seeing all of those fish and dolphins,” Rose added innocently. Sarah gave her a look of disappointment and was waiting for my answer with anticipation as if this question would shift the way the rest of the night went. I’d have to be careful with my words. 

“Um yes, it is, however my family and I are not supportive of the company. The captivating of Killer Whales is a huge controversy where I’m from. I don’t believe that those creatures should be held in captivity.” There was a pause of silence. 

“That’s really interesting Whitney,” said Rose, not sounding interested at all.

“Thank you, Rose,” I continued pretending I ignored her dull sounding voice, “the abuse of sea life for public enjoyment is not discussed enough in our society. My father's company has donated annually to charities in support of taking care of these issues.” 

“Ah yes interesting indeed,” said Ward taking a long drink of his scotch. I knew it was time to change the subject. 

“So Mr. Cameron do you like fishing?” 

The rest of the night went like this, chatting back and forth about the weather, food, and other things to do in the Outer Banks. The food was amazing: a three-course meal of an appetizer, entree, and dessert. The conversation at the table was basically just Rose, Ward, and me. Rafe would make a few comments when we would talk about fishing and Sarah would bring up the best beaches to go to for tanning. 

“Do you by any chance know of any good beaches for surfing?” I asked. I had been dying to get back in the water and the internet only suggested the most popular beaches. I figured a local would know of the best spots.

“Oh um I’m not really an expert on those beaches, but I have some friends who would know some good places!” said Sarah, at the mention of Sarah’s friends the rest of the table fell silent, “here give me your number and I’ll text you when the next time they go out!” She handed me her phone and I put my number in.

“Thank you so much! My board should be coming on Monday, so anytime after that, I’ll be free,” I said, handing her phone back to her. 

“Cool, how long have you been surfing?” 

“All my life basically, my mother grew up surfing and taught me at a young age and I’ve been surfing ever since” 

“Awesome!”

“Anyways girls we should get going, Whitney, it was so nice to catch up with you,” said Rose coming around the table to give me another hug. 

“Oh the pleasure was all mine,” I said standing up, “it was so nice to get acquainted with you all.”

“Oh, Whitney you must come by our house for brunch some time!”

“Yeah we'll see,” I said trying to lean towards the door not planning on taking her up on the offer.

“Alright Rafe take Whitney home and we’ll see you-“

“Actually,” interrupted Sarah, “I was thinking I could take Whitney home? She’s been hanging out with Rafe all afternoon and she needs some girl time.” 

She said it as if her parents had already agreed to let her take me home. Before they could say another word Sarah took my hand and pulled me out of the Country Club. 

“Goodbye!” I cried out as Sarah almost pulled my arm out of my socket and out of the restaurant. 

a/n: A little longer chapter and I wont be posting again today :( . Also who didn’t think Wheezies name was kinda ridiculous like I hope I’m not the only one. I’m going to start uploading longer chapters from now on because I just can’t wait for you guys to read more! Thanks again for reading it really means a lot and I’d love your feedback! 

Edit: Also next update will be Monday!

[daybreak-delusion]

Series Masterlist

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina. As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade, she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems. 

A/N: This is my fic ever so please bear with me as I try to figure everything out! This is a mega slow burn so if you’re into that kinda ish this is for you! 

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 4

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

Series Masterlist

Yeah, it was just as awkward as I thought it would be. First off Rafe didn’t say anything for a while he was just texting someone on his phone. I was awkwardly sitting on the couch so I tried to envision myself anywhere else but here. I thought about the London flat and how it was probably going to be destroyed by Will’s outrageous parties. Becoming too overwhelmed that this was my life now I tried to start a conversation to distract myself.

“So, have you lived here all your life?” was my pathetic attempt to converse with a boy who seemed to have an intimate relationship with his phone.

“Um yeah, I have. Do you know the WIFI passcode there's no service in here,” was his pathetic response to my question.  

“I actually just got here a few hours ago and haven’t gotten the chance to find it. Wanna help me look for it?”

“Uh sure,” he finally put his phone away and was looking at me like it was his first time seeing me, almost as if he hadn't realized I was a girl before, “Yeah it’s probably in the kitchen.”

We looked for a good ten minutes, but no such luck. That’s when things finally got interesting.

“Aye you wanted to talk to me, sunshine,” barged in Golden Boy from the back kitchen door, hitting Rade in the face in the process. It was the first time I had genuinely smiled that morning.

“JJ what the hell are you doing here,” said a red-faced Rafe. Ah so JJ was Golden Boys name. It suited him in a boyish way. No doubt that he was one of the most handsome boys I had ever seen. His golden hair and striking blue eyes were the main statements of his face. The boy was also blessed with good bone structure and full lips that girls at my boarding school would have killed for. Then there was his tall frame and strong arms. He was a classic hottie. Of course, this was just his looks, I didn’t know what he was really like and from the encounter I had this morning he wasn’t the highest on my list of boys I would date. But, I had gone out with douchebags with fewer manners than him.

“I could ask you the same question, Rafe,” JJ’s voice was laced with pure hatred. It startled me how quickly his demeanor changed from walking in.

“Rafe it’s okay, JJ mows the lawn and I asked to speak to him,” I said in a calming voice sensing dangerous tension. The last thing I wanted was a fight on my hands.

“Is that why it looks so shitty,” was Rafes’ response to this which put him even lower on my dating list. Grandmother wouldn't have hired just anyone to take care of her lawn so calling it shitty was an insult on her part. I quickly became angry.

“Hey man!” JJ said in a “hey I will fight you right now” tone of voice. The boys each were about to throw punches when I interfered.

“Rafe, hey,” I said stepping in front of Rafe with my hands up, trying to calm him down despite my anger, “It’s okay, how about you come back and pick me up for dinner, I just need to talk to JJ about the lawn and I’m sure you have things that you need to do before tonight.” I put as much sweetness I could muster up into my words hoping to calm him down and get him out of Grandmother’s house.

“Yeah, whatever. I’ll need to get your number so I can let you know when I’m coming back,” he said with charm into his voice. I swear I saw JJ roll his eyes, but I ignored and reluctantly put my number into Rafe’s phone.

“I’ll be by later Whitney, see ya,” and just like that Rafe’s sickening presence was finally gone.  

When I came back into the kitchen JJ was sitting at the table drinking a beer.

“Excuse me where did you get that?”

“The fridge.”

“And who gave you permission to go through my fridge?”

“Sorry, Sunshine, this is just how Vicky ran things”

“Who is Vicky?”

“Your grandma, duh”

Vicky? My grandmother? A nickname? She was one of the most proper women on this Earth, I never knew she was a nickname kind of person. I must have woken up in Oz because apparently I’m not on this Earth anymore.

“Whatever, I guess official introductions are in order”

“Yeah, I’d like to meet the girl who was showing off her ass this morning.”

“First things first please delete that from your memory.” I quickly replied, turning away from the boy so he doesn’t see my face quickly turning red.

“Sorry Sunshine, can’t it’s burned into my brain.”

“Please stop”

“It’s like every time I close my eyes,”

“Please”

“It’s just there”

“Okay fine, just please refrain from telling anyone about it.”

“I’ll try my best”

“Thank you”

“Which isn't much if I’m being honest.” There he goes with that smile again, looking like he can see right through me.

“Are you always this infuriating?”

“I don’t know, do you always use weird words while insulting people?”

Ugh, this boy is impossible.

“Look, I really don’t want to argue with you, I am now your new boss and I need information.”

“Wow getting all official on me,” he said taking another swing from his beer, “what are you gonna do? Have you a special investigator look into me? I promise sunshine I’ll give you whatever you need.” he said with a wink while looking me up and down in a similar way Rafe was just moments early. But this time it was hot. Wait, what? Whitney, no. Boys are not what you are here for. But you were just ranking them on your “dating list”. Shut up logic.

“Alright first of all enough with the nicknames. Even though I am technically your boss, because we are probably the same age you may call me by my first name; Whitney.”

“God lady I didn’t know Vicky could have a granddaughter with a huge stick up her ass,” he said, setting his can down on the table. Right on the table no coster or anything like some animal.

“Excuse me? Don’t make me have you call me Mrs. Goodwinson,” I snapped back looking in the drawers for a coaster. Surprisingly I found one on my first try. Of course, it had little lemons on it.

“Ohh I sure am scared,” said JJ leaning back while placing his hand behind his head. I was starting to lose his focus and needed to get to him. 

“Oh trust me you should be,” I threatened walking over to this boy, coaster in hand ready to start my test, “I don’t think you really understand what’s going on here,” I stepped closer to him leaning my hands on the table so I could get closer at the boy who apparently held Grandmothers trust, “This is my house now, my lawn, my beers, and my equipment. So enough with the snarky comments, the insulting nicknames, and any mentions of my ass, got it? I don’t know what you know about me or what you think you know about my grandmother, but all of that is going to change. All you need to know is that I could ruin your life. In 5 minutes I could have my family's lawyer on the phone, in an hour I could have a case against you claiming breaking and entering and sexual harassment, in a day a court set up, and by next week you could be in jail for 5-10 years. You really want to risk that,” I finished my statement by picking up his beer and placing my coaster underneath it.

Yeah I know I sound like a bitch, but with good reasons. This also wasn’t the first time I’d given this speech. Father had helped me memorize it when I was trying to get some guys to stop harassing me in middle school. I wasn’t necessarily trying to get him to fear me or anything I was just trying to figure out him out. Grandmother trusted this vulgar, rude, blond boy to take care of her yard and I know this sounds obsessive and weird, but Grandmother always said you could tell the most about a family by the way they kept their yard. Yeah, it was shallow, but was she wrong? Maybe, but I can’t disrespect the dead and I needed to know this boy would take his job seriously.

“I got nothing to lose...sunshine,” said JJ, smirking while taking a swing of his drink keeping eye contact with me the whole time. God, he was cute. What was that? Nevermind I finally had him figured out.

“Now I see it,” I said.

“See what?”

“Why Grandmother trusted you.”

“And why is that?” JJ asked leaning forward his face inches from mine.

“You’re fearless.”

a/n: Yeah i know Whitney kinda sounds like a bitch in this chapter, but i like making characters that have room to develop. The next chapter will make her a little more human, hopefully. Anyways the next update will be Saturday! Thank you so much for reading it means a lot! If you want updates on this fic message me and I’ll tag you. Thanks again!  

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 3

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

Series Masterlist

The Camerons were a very odd, attractive looking family, so it’s a good thing I had experience in the crazy department. By looking at body language you could tell a lot about a group of people. First of all Mrs. Cameron did most of the talking and felt the most comfortable around me. Now, this could be because we are both females, but I sense it has more to do with the relationship with my mother. Because she had “the look” I’m guessing they were both sorority sisters. She spoke very fast and looked around the house looking for things to fix, but probably to her surprise, the house was in great shape. Considering Grandmother had died a month ago. Her husband, Ward Cameron was a bit harder to read. He was also observing the house, but unlike his wife, he was looking at the layout and framework. It was easy to tell he was an alpha male type with a god complex. Just by the way he was walking around the house like he already owned it made me uneasy about his presence in Grandmother's home. When he spoke he had a charm but I sensed he was two-sided. He reminded me of my dad. Then there was their son, Rafe. He would definitely be buddies with crackhead Willy cuz this boy itching for a fix. You could see it in how his eyes darted around and his hands slightly twitched. Something interesting about the group was it was obvious that Rafe Cameron was not Rose Cameron’s son. Rafe had no respect for her which put him below his father in people who I would trust in the room. Apparently, I would be meeting the rest of the family that night during dinner at the town's Yacht Club. Lucky me.

“Oh Whitney you will love the club and if I am correct your mother told me it was the place where your grandparents met!” said Rose a little too energetically. She seemed to always talk like she needed everyone to listen to her.

“Yeah he was visiting on business and she was working as a waitress I think?”

“Oh such a romantic story, your grandfather rescued her from a life of excruciating working and pain to a life of luxury and bliss,” she sighed as if it was a fairytale. Is that how people here saw her story? Grandmother had always said it like Grandfather was an annoying tourist who wouldn't leave the island if she didn’t go with him. Also, why were people still talking about it? Grandmother only lived here during her childhood and then those two more years before she died. Was the island really that small?

“Okay, so what do you think of the house?” I said quickly changing the subject.

“It’s in pretty good shape. The framework is sturdy and the layout is flexible,” finally said Mr. Cameron doing a full turn of the room.

“Grandmother liked to own things that would last.”

“Noted, with a new paint job on the front and a little work on the yard we’ll have this place on the market by the end of the month,” Mr. Cameron said with a satisfied look. Wait what? I was planning on staying here at least till August and it was only June.

“Wow, that’s some fast work.”

“Well, we only hire the best workers.”

“Oh, I was actually planning on doing the work myself if you don’t mind”

“Yourself,” said Mr. Cameron with a quizzical look on his face, “I don’t know about that Whitney, that's a lot of work for one lady like yourself.”  

Oh, I know this man did not just insult me like that, in Grandmother's home nonetheless.

“Well Mr. Cameron I was given this house by my grandmother and I made a promise to her that I would be the keeper of it. She would want me to handle any changes to her beloved home and going against her word would be disrespectful don't you think?.” So the promise part and the most beloved home part was total bullshit, but I wasn't about to let this man come into my home and tell me what to do.

“Yes, of course, I was only suggesting that it would be done much faster with the help of my company,” this caused a look from Rose, “I mean our company.”

“Well my grandmother would rather want it done efficiently and not rushed,” I finished, making it clear the conversation was over.

“Of course Whitney we wouldn't want to do anything against your grandmother's wishes, right sweetheart?” pleased Rose with a smile trying to get her husband to back down. I gave a smug look to Mr. Cameron, knowing that I had all the power in this situation. If I wanted to, I could drop the Cameron family and sell the house myself, I even had a list of people that were interested in the cottage from my father. This was a favor.

I might only be eighteen years old but I’m a fast learner and have studied business my whole life. Being the daughter of the founder and C.E.O. of the leading sail-boating dealership in American and the granddaughter of the man who was and still is a world-renowned heart surgeon came with benefits. I knew how to read people, talk to people, and put people in their place. Especially people like the Camerons. They were rich, probably the richest on the island now that Grandmother is dead, but they were arrogant and Father always said that the most arrogant people were the easiest to manipulate. You just threaten their power and bam! They’re in the palm of your hands.

“Yes, of course. This is your house Whitney and what you say goes,” replied Mr. Cameron with a phony smile that would put Aunt Elizabeths to shame.

“I’m glad we got that sorted out, now is there anything else I can do for you?” I asked in a sickly sweet voice wishing that these people would leave me alone so I could go back to sleep.

“Oh no honey we are good, but we thought Rafe could stay here with you until dinner! You know to help you settle in and everything,” said Rose looking like she was walking on eggshells. I had completely forgotten about the boy's presence as he turned his head from a painting on the wall as he heard the sound of his name. As if on cue he gave a frat boy smile showing off his polished teeth. I could see what was happening, Rose was trying to play matchmaker.

“Oh, I don't believe that’s necessary.”

“Don’t be silly he’s happy to help,” Rose continued as if Rafe wasn’t there to say this for himself, “And who knows you two could become friends!”

Dear God, striking me down now would be a good time.

“I guess it-”

“Perfect!” interrupted Rose,” Rafe we will meet you two at the Club at 7 sharp okay! No detours alright,” she finished with a wink. I gave a blank look at Rafe who looked like he wanted to die just as much as I did. As I walked the power couple of the year out to their car I noticed that the mysterious boy from earlier had disappeared to somewhere. There goes our conversation.

“We’ll see you two at 7!” cheered Rose waving as they got into their car.

“Can’t wait!” I smiled back, rolling my eyes as I turned around. Geeze I did not want to encounter the statue again, but just like Grandmother long ago I gave in.

a/n: Thanks again for reading! If you want to be updated on when I post, message me and I can put you on a list! Next chapter will be up shortly so stay tuned! 

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 2

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

Series Masterlist

L.A.X. was packed per usual. I let George, my family's chauffeur, know what gate to let me out at. My flight was leaving at 9:00 P.M. which sucked but at least I could sleep on the plane right? Wrong. I swear, why do people travel with children? After the 8-hour flight landed I looked for my driver and my luggage. Because of the late notice, I flew into an airport in Virginia and had to drive another hour to the dreaded Outer Banks. After packing up my bags and carry-on we were finally on the road. I absolutely cannot sleep in cars so I was awake the whole time fiddling with the keys to the house. Finally, after nine hours of traveling, we finally arrived at a cool 3 o’clock in the morning. 

 My mind was a little hazy, but what I first noticed was the blanked of humidity and the buzzing of mosquitoes. Also, the “shack” was more like a cottage which was a pleasant surprise. There stood the yellow house in the moonlight waiting for me to open up its doors. Did I mention it was yellow? Not like a vibrant highlighter yellow, but a pale yellow. The cottage was in a wide-open grassy space with tall trees surrounding the property. I could hear the sound of waves crashing on a shore which was a bonus, I’d have to check it out once I could keep my eyes open for more than 20 seconds. 

The front of the house was symmetrical with a door in the middle and two shutter windows on either side. There were dead flowers in the plant boxes underneath the window and cobwebs on the door handle. The driver, Paul, helped me bring my luggage into the cottage. I unlocked the door and it led into the living room, on the right, there was a mud closet and the left opened into a large living room. Wow for an older woman the home had a very modern look. The living room had sleek, black wooden floors, with a white U-shaped couch facing a flat-screen TV that hung above a fireplace. The walls were decorated with paintings of various landscapes and oceans. To the left of the TV, a doorway led to the kitchen and dining room with a door to the backyard separating the two areas. The place was decorated with lemons like lemon themed everything. Lemons decorated tablecloths, cups, and there was even a lemon shaped teapot. The kitchen table was set as if Grandmother was expecting company, placemats, plates, utensils and wine glasses were set in place with a thin layer of dust on them. Decorated with you guessed it; lemons. The other side of the living room led to another doorway and a hallway. To the right end of the hallway was the master bedroom, Grandmother's bedroom. Yeah, I was sleeping in the guest bedroom that was towards the left. On my way there I passed the laundry room and bathroom. The bedroom was similar to the living room, mostly white with lavender colored accents. A queen-sized bed with a white-colored comforter and about twenty lavender and white pillows sat in the middle of the room with a dresser on each side. Across from the bed sat a vanity desk with a lavender trimmed mirror. A big closet was on the right side of the room and the left had two big windows. Thank goodness, I thought it was hot outside? Inside it was 10X worse. I opened the windows, changed into some pajamas, and dived into the bed ready for a long, long sleep. 

At least that’s what I thought. I woke up to the most annoying noise in the world, a lawnmower. With the windows open the noise was almost deafening. I practically fell out of bed and rushed to the window to see a boy with golden blond hair in a grey wife beater and some tacky kaki shorts pushing a lawnmower. I threw on my silk robe over my sleepwear and rushed out to the yard. Going through the back door of the kitchen I found the door led to a wrap-around porch that had an outside sitting area, decorated with Grandmother's favorite citrus, lemons. Never mind that though I was beyond furious. It must have been like 6 o’clock in the morning. Outside the sun was already blazing making the stone path extremely hot on my bare feet. I noticed the path led to a boating dock with chairs, a fire pit, and a boat tied to it? It looked like it was in good condition just a little dusty, just like everything around here. Anyways back to the matter at hand, the boy had his back to me so he didn’t see me. 

“Hey, Heyyy!!! Golden boy!” Geez was this guy def? I was right behind him screaming, but he didn’t even flinch. Then suddenly my life flashed before my eyes as he turned the lawnmower of death towards me. The blades were close to cutting off my toes as I jumped back with a scream. The boy looked just as startled as I did stumbling back. 

“What is wrong with you!” I screamed. 

“What!?” 

“I said what is wrong with you!?” 

“Sorry I can’t hear you,” he replied, taking out his earphones, I could hear the hard rock music from here, “what did you say?” He replied with a stupid cheesy smile while looking me up and down. I then realized I was wearing my skimpiest pajamas and wrapped my robe closer around me. 

“I said what is wrong with you? Who mows a lawn this early in the morning?” 

“Early in the morning-“ 

“And who are you!?” 

“Well if-“

“And what are you doing here!?” 

“Geeze sunshine if you’d just let me talk.” 

“Fine speak”

“Well thanks for the permission, first of all, it’s noon so I don’t know what morning is to you but the normal world sees this as the afternoon and I’m mowing the law.” 

“Obviously, but why are you here?” 

“Cuz’ I’m getting paid” 

“How? The person who lived here is… is dead,” I replied, stammering a bit. 

“Yeah, I know Mrs. Goodwinson passed away. She paid me in advance for the whole summer,” he said like it was the most obvious thing in the world. 

“Oh okay, then why- wait did you say it was noon?” I said, panic rising in my voice. 

“Yeah, 12:23 to be exact,” he said looking at his phone. 

“Oh shit,” my mom's friends were coming by at 12:30 to look at the house and I still had airport hair. “Whatever just when you’re done I’d like to discuss your job in the house please.” 

“Sure thing your highness” 

I ran back to the cottage and into my room and quickly stripped off my pajamas. Suddenly I heard a low whistle from outside the window. 

“Aye I didn’t know the view from here could be so good,” chuckled Golden Boy from outside the window. 

Screaming I dropped to the floor and army-crawled to the window. I gave the boy a rude gesture which resulted in his annoying laugh. I closed the window curtains and got up to get dressed. Just a second later I heard a knock on the door. 

“Just a second,” I hollered from my room. I pulled on the first dress from the top of my suitcase, which was a simple green sundress with white flowers, and quickly brushed my hair into a ponytail. Thank goodness I was dressed decently because when I opened the door the family in front of me looked like they could be on the cover of some high living magazine. 

“Hi you must be Whitney it is so nice to meet you, we are the Camerons!” said a shrill voice.

Oh boy.

a/n: Thank you so much fo reading it really means a lot to me! This chapter was a little spicer and I actually got the interaction from a dream I had which is kinda embarrassing to admit, but oh well. Next two chapters should be up on Thursday! Also if you literally have any questions and care enough to message me pls do so. I’m willing to explain anything! Thanks again!

[daybreak-delusion]

Chapter 1

Introduction: Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina.  As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

Series Masterlist

It was just like a regular family gathering. Aunt Elizabeth was wearing something that was completely inappropriate for a 50-year-old, cousin Will was shaking from cocaine withdrawals, and my mother was whispering more family gossip into my ear. Not the best circumstances for my grandmother's funeral, but she wouldn’t have expected much from us.

“This is ridiculous,” Mother hissed/whispered into my ear, “your grandmother always said that she wanted white roses not white lilies at her funeral,” she finally finished, sitting up straight in her chair. I just kept staring ahead trying to ignore the fact that my family is insane. Grandmother was the only thing keeping us all together and after her will reading, we would probably never see each other again. Allow me to explain, Grandfather was the highest paying heart surgeon in the L.A. county by the age of 30. He met my grandmother at a yacht club off the coast of North Carolina and I guess it was love at first sight. A load of bull that was, Grandfather had countless affairs and they barely stayed in the same home together. I guess that’s love.

“As we celebrate the life of Victoria Goodwinson, daughter, mother, and friend, we ask that the family come forward with their flowers,” said the perspiring priest gesturing towards the first row to step up.

“Come on,” grunted Father, leaving a laughable sweat mark on his seat. Honestly, who picked black for the color of death and why did Grandmother have to die in June? Whatever, we all got up and gathered our white roses, which triggered another comment from Mother, and headed to the casket. I adjusted my black dress and moved my straightened brown hair over my shoulder. I could tell from the look on my mother's face and the sweat on the back of my neck that my hair was probably frizzing up and going back to its waves. There goes another hour of straightening down the drain. Just like we practiced Uncle Richard and Aunt Elizabeth's family went first, followed by Uncle Charles and Aunt Anne’s family, and finally our little whirlwind. Oldest to youngest, straight backs, and mournful looks on our faces. Sadly this meant that I would have to hold a sad face and stand with my shoulders back the longest. By the time it was my turn I had started seeing black dots. I placed my rose on top of the others and actually started to think about Grandmother for the first time since she died. It’s not like I was granddaughter of the year or anything but I still felt a close connection with Grandmother. She would always talk about her glamorous life in London, New York, and Singapore, the Channel fashion shows, and the exquisite champagne imported from Paris. She was the only adult that let me drink in her presence, so she was basically my favorite human being and ultimate role model. Then about two years ago Grandfather died. After that, she stowed away to the place where they met, and then she died. Snapping back to reality I realized the service was over. Let the games begin.

My relatives looked like lions chained up in a meat locker. We were all in the family mansion in L.A. patiently waiting for the attorney to show up. As patient as a bunch of spoiled rich children can. When the clock struck four minutes past 3 Uncle Richard started to pace, causing Aunt Elizabeth to convince him to sit down which caused an argument which caused an awkward feeling to rise in the room. Normal stuff. Thankfully the attorney walked in right as Uncle Richard was criticizing my father's necktie after he tried to stop him from throwing a vase. Everyone quickly shut up and put on their best phony smiles. This was it the real reason we all left our luxurious homes and spent 3 hours in the hot blistering California sun, the will. Now, Grandfather has left all of his assets to Grandmother and hopefully, the most valuable assets will be given to MY family. Personally I was hoping to be given her flat in London. Every summer I would spend a month there walking through the gardens, having tea in ancient places, and just spending time with her. It was my favorite city in the world and I couldn't wait to live there.

“Thank you all for gathering here today for the reading of Mrs. Victoria Goodwinson’s will and testament,” said the monotone attorney, “please save your questions for the end of the reading I’d like to begin.”

I kinda zoned out the beginning, but then he started with the good stuff.

“The mid-size private jet, Amazon shares, New York apartment residence and all that is in it, and a 5 million dollar allowance goes to Mr. Charles and Mrs. Anne Goodwinson,” continued the attorney, his voice becoming a little hoarse from all of the talking. Uncle Charles and Aunt Anne looked satisfied with their lot.

“The large size private jet, the L.A. mansion and all that is in it, and a 5 million dollar allowance goes to Mr. Henry and Mrs. Mary Goodwinson.”

I know Mother was hoping for the yacht that was given to Uncle Richard and Aunt Elizabeth, but getting the L.A. house, the house that Grandmother and Grandfather lived in, was enough to make her satisfied. The mansion had countless paintings that could sell for millions, plus the location was ideal and would sell for double what Grandfather had originally bought it for. 

“Now for the client’s grandchildren,” said Mr. get-to-the-point finally getting to the point “to Mr. William Speakman the London flat and a 2.5 million allowance is given.”

I just sat there in shock. What?! Are you kidding me? Crackhead Willy got the London flat and not me! This is absurd. Despite my outrage, I kept a smile on my face and my shoulders back.

“And finally to our last recipient, Mrs. Whitney Goodwinson…”

I leaned forward a bit just waiting for what the old man was gonna say. Since I wasn’t getting the London flat, maybe Grandmother had a secret cottage in the French countryside or another apartment in Italy. Anything would have been better than what Mr. bad news Bob said next.

“The Outer Banks, North Carolinian residence and a 3.5 million allowance will be given. This closes the end of the reading of the will and testament. Any questions can be asked now.”

Oh boy did I have questions. First off what the hell was Grandmother thinking. Outer Banks!? A dingy island that I had never been too?! I had never heard Grandmother speak of it and had to find out from Father that it was the island where Grandmother first met Grandfather. That meant it was also the place where she died, which did not seem right.

“Whitney she didn’t die in the house, she died in a hospital on the mainland,” said Mother while lighting a cigarette, a “once in a while” habit of hers. We were on the balcony of my parents’ new mansion looking over the Los Angeles skyline. Mother and Father wasted no time kicking everyone out and moving into their new home. In the distance, I could see the sun setting into the Pacific Ocean. It hurt me that in a few hours I would be leaving this perfect place and would be looking at a completely different ocean on the other side of the country in a town where I didn’t know anybody and was unfamiliar with. “And don’t complain it was your grandmother's dying wish to give you her old shack in North Carolina, the least you could do is visit it before you sell it.”

“Fine,” I said rolling my eyes, “I just hope someone is willing to buy.”

“Don’t worry honey we already have a list of possible buyers and I have a personal friend who’s a realtor there who said that she’d help you out. I told her you would be arriving tomorrow and she’s gonna come by the house.” Ah yes, my mother ladies and gents all ready setting up people for me to meet. I swear she knows people in every state, but at least I’ll have help selling the shack.

“You’re sure I can’t take the private jet?” I pleaded with my best “please take pity on me because I got screwed out of a London flat” face.

“Honey you know that your father and I need to go to Sweden to pick out new furniture for the house. Flying first class will be fine and I’m sorry you have to take a red-eye, but it was so last minute You know what’s funny? Your father and I already had a plane ticket to London for you,” she laughed, “we were so sure the flat was yours!” I did not in fact think it was funny.

“Yeah me too,” I said miserably.

“It’ll be fine honey, who knows,” she said snuffing out her cigarette,” you might even like it there.”

I highly doubt that.

 a/n: First chapter is finally up! Thank you for reading and not dropping out after the first sentence! Second chapter should be up shortly, for the time being I’m going to be posting two chapters at a time every other day. I figure this will motivate me even more to write! I am so excited for you guys to see where the story goes and all of its twists and turns! Stay tuned for the next chapter! 

[daybreak-delusion]

Introduction

Whitney Goodwinson was planning on inheriting one of her deceased grandmother's properties, but not a little house off the coast of North Carolina. As she struggles to meet new people, fix up her new property, deal with troublemaker, JJ Maybank, and perfect her grandmother's infamous lemonade she might just find that the Outer Banks has more to offer than it seems.

A/N: This is the first fic I've had the motivation to write and am really excited to post it! It takes place two years after the show and if it seems confusing at first please hang in there, everything is explained! Special thanks to @rudysrings for the support and advice! This is a JJ Maybank X OC and is a slow burn so get ready!

[daybreak-delusion]

NEED HELP

Hello there! I am a new writer and am looking for someone who can review the first few chapters of my JJ fic! I’m really excited to post it and just wanna get a second opinion! If you have nothing to do pls message me and I can send it to you. Thanks!