In the small, tight-knit town of Oakridge Haven, high school junior Payton struggles to navigate the tumultuous waters of his teenage years. Concealing a deep secret, he's haunted by the trauma of an abusive father who once ruled their household with an iron fist. This burden forces Payton to stay in the closet, unable to reveal his true self to anyone, even his caring and unsuspecting mother.
As if that weren't enough, Payton's life takes an unexpected turn when he and his mother relocate to Oakridge Haven , leaving behind the painful memories of their past. At Oakridge Haven High, Payton faces the daunting task of fitting in, making friends, and grappling with the fear of being himself. Every day feels like a balancing act between his authentic identity and the facade he's created.
Complicating matters further, Payton finds himself inexplicably drawn to someone he never expected: his own bully, the enigmatic and charismatic Dean. It's an attraction that defies logic and reason, setting the stage for a complex emotional journey. As their paths collide in unexpected ways, Payton must confront not only his feelings for Dean but also the torment that Dean inflicts upon him.
"The Photographers Bad Boy" is a compelling coming-of-age story that explores themes of trauma, self-discovery, and the power of love to heal wounds. It takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through Payton's struggles as he grapples with his past, his identity, and his budding feelings for someone who should be his enemy. Will Payton find the strength to be true to himself and confront his traumatic past? And could love truly conquer the pain of his past and bridge the gap between him and his tormentor?
As Dallas and Drayton navigate life in the spotlight, Spencer is navigating intense feelings for Nathan - her best friend's brother.
*****
Dallas and Drayton are planning their wedding, talking babies and learning how to navigate life in LA now that Drayton is a hotshot football player in the big leagues. Meanwhile, Spencer and Nathan are back at home in Colorado, coming to terms with their feelings for one another and learning how to co-parent with Grayson, the father of Spencer's daughter. Will the realities of adult life strengthen them - or will their relationships break?
[Sequel to The QB Bad Boy and Me]
[[word count: 150,000-200,000 words]]