everything about you •• jj maybank

twelve

Meeting Toby Lancaster for the first time was like surfing straight into a big swell. Absolutely terrifying, anxiety inducing, yet the most beautiful, breath taking moment you could ever experience.

Terrifying because you knew it could end up throwing you into the tumultuous waters, where you really know nothing. You're a land animal fighting against the water that rocks you back and forth, not knowing if it will let you escape.

But you take in your surroundings, understanding how beautiful the water truly is, and everything that comes with it. Above the water, you're fine. But under the surface, that's another story.

It was the summer before Sophomore year. Topper had a surf competition one Friday morning. This particular competition was for Regionals for Outer Banks, and it was quite a big deal. He had the potential to go to State depending on how he placed on this day.

Toby was also competing that day.

That day it had just been me, my parents, and my grandfather there to support him.

The wind had been crazy that day, my hair going in every direction, and my arms shivering from the cold front of the ocean.

"You should have brought a jacket, dear," my grandpa laughed, reaching over and grabbing me from my side and pulling me into him.

I smiled and cuddled myself into his side. "I didn't think the wind would make it this cold!" I admitted, making him chuckle.

Topper ended up placing second that day. My family and I cheered loud and obnoxiously when they called his name. He had a huge smile on his face as he grabbed his medal and walked to the front of the beach.

Toby had placed third that day. I always teased him for that.

Topper came over to us, and I ran up to him, reaching up and throwing my arms around him.

"Way to go, Top!" I cheered as he lazily wrapped his arm around my waist and gave me a squeeze.

As we all gave Topper our words of encouragement and affirmations, I watched out of the corner of my eyes as the brunette boy walked over to us.

His charming smile and deep tanned skin was enough to make any girl swoon. His eyes were a deep emerald green and captivated anyone that looked in his direction. It was hard to look away.

I found myself nervously stepping back next to my grandpa as he walked over. I could feel his enchanting eyes on me, and looked up, seeing him grinning down at me. I shyly returned the smile, my cheeks becoming warmer and warmer every second his eyes were on mine.

"I came over to say my congratulations, Topper," he spoke, turning his attention to my brother, but looking at me from the corner of his eye every few moments.

I had zoned out, trying my best to act cool in front of the handsome boy.

"Jose," Toppers voice echoed in my head and I looked up, meeting my entire family's eyes. Blushing, I chuckled nervously.

"I asked if you were cold," Toby laughed, his smile gentle and sweet.

"Sorry. Um, yes. Yeah I am cold. I forgot to bring a jacket," I chuckle awkward, mentally facepalming at my awkwardness.

I watch as the boy reaches in his bag, taking out a hoodie, and handing it to me.

"Oh, I'll be fine-"

"Take it. Please."

I nod, grinning as I pulled the hoodie over my torso. The sleeves hung slightly over my hands and I pulled them over my finger tips, and smiled at the warmth. I turned over and saw my mom and dad smiling down at me.