𝘛𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘖𝘧 𝘋𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘺 - 𝘑𝘑 𝘔𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘬

𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘖𝘯 𝘌𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘩

Now that I'm 16, everything has shifted. The weight of my life in Colorado feels heavier than ever. My relationship with my Mom and Stepdad has deteriorated to the point where every conversation feels like a battle. They don't understand me, and I feel like a stranger in my own home. The mountains that once seemed majestic now feel isolating, a constant reminder of the life I'm missing.

I spent countless nights thinking about my brother and Dad, longing for the laughter and the carefree days we shared in the Outer Banks. I can still hear John B's voice, teasing me about my stubbornness, and I miss the way my Dad would tell stories that made everything seem possible. Even though I went back to the Outer Banks every so often, it never felt like enough. I knew I had to go back for good. I need to reconnect with the people who truly understand me, who accept me for who I am.

So, I made my decision. I packed my bags and left behind a life that felt stifling. I was ready to embrace the freedom and adventure that awaited me in the Outer Banks. I'm finally back where I belong, ready to reunite with my brother and Dad and reclaim the pieces of my life that have been missing for far too long.

The salty breeze whipped through my hair as I stepped off the small ferry, my heart racing with excitement. The familiar sights and sounds of the Outer Banks enveloped me like a warm hug. I had dreamt of this moment for years, and now that I was finally here, it felt surreal.

After grabbing my bags, I hopped into my car and made my way down the winding roads, the sun setting behind me and casting a golden glow over everything. Memories flooded back—laughter with the Pogues, late-night adventures, and the thrill of being part of something bigger. But there was one place I couldn't wait to return to: the château.

As I pulled up to the château, my heart raced with anticipation. The place felt alive, filled with memories and the scent of the salty waters that reminded me of beach days. It was a fragrance that brought back images of sun-soaked afternoons, laughter echoing over the waves, and the feeling of sand between my toes.

I stood in the living room of the château, excitement bubbling inside me as I waited for the Pogues to arrive. I had missed them so much, and I couldn't wait to see their reactions when they walked through the door. I knew they were out on the HMS Pogue since the boat wasn't docked when I arrived back at the château.

I heard the creak of the grand doors opening, and my heart raced. Their laughter and chatter echoed through the hall, making the moment feel electric.

Then, I saw them stood in the doorway, their faces shifting from confusion to shock.

"Maddy? You're back?" John B exclaimed, and I felt a rush of joy at the sight of him.

Before I could say anything, Kie ran forward and hugged me tightly. "I can't believe you're here!" she exclaimed, and I couldn't help but smile.

"Surprise!" I called out, my heart soaring as the rest of them rushed toward me, their laughter filling the room. After all the time apart, being with them again made everything feel right. This was just the beginning of our next adventure together.