Magnolia Sunrise

By Stephanie Thompson

Jason Thompson and Annabelle Bryant have been inseparable since childhood. It only made sense for them to fall in love and plan a future together.

When Jason's dreams of being a country music singer come closer to reality, their relationshi

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kingston Publishing Company
• Release date: Mar 14, 2022
• ISBN: 9781645334729

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Copyright

Magnolia Sunrise is a work of fiction. All names, characters, locations, and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

MAGNOLIA SUNRISE: A NOVEL

Copyright © 2022 by Stephanie Thompson

All rights reserved.

Editing by Pure Grammar Editorial Services

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Formatting & Cover Design by KP Designs

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Published by Kingston Publishing Company

- www.kingstonpublishing.com

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Table of Contents

Copyright

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Epilogue

Acknowledgements

About the Author

Also by the Author

About the Publisher

Chapter One

Annabelle

I woke up to the sound of his snoring, the same sound I fell asleep to almost every night. One of my favorite sounds in the world, not that I'd ever tell him that. You have like, twenty seconds until my dad comes in here to wake me up for Saturday pancakes. I rolled over to face him, our noses touched, and he smiled. I wanted to wake up like this every day. 

Ten more seconds. Jason pulled me closer to his bare chest and rested his lips on my forehead. 

Jason Thompson was the love of my life. I know at eighteen that's a hard statement to make, but I promise it's the truth. We've been next door neighbors our entire lives, and I've been in love with him since we were eight years old. We were running through the woods down to the creek when I fell and skinned my knee. He wiped the blood away with his shirt and kissed the scratches. That's all it took. I was his from that June day. 

You have to go. I don't want to get in trouble. Not with our graduation plans next week. 

He knows I sleep over sometimes. There's no way he doesn't know. You can't whisper to save your life. 

He doesn't know. He loves you, but wouldn't like you sleeping in my bed. He'd start asking questions and give me the talk. That's way too embarrassing. Just go and I'll see you in a little bit. 

You working today? He traced kisses from my ear down my neck, to where the collar of my shirt began. He knew not to go further. 

Yes. I shivered at his touch. I wanted to go further with him, but at the right time. That's what graduation was about. I get off at five.

That's ten hours from now, baby. What am I supposed to do all day?

Go to the studio. Go home. Go anywhere, especially out that window. Now. I kissed him hard as I pushed him towards my open window. 

Jason was big, nearly six feet tall and every inch of him was muscle. He liked to work out when he wasn't working at the repair shop or recording demo tapes in the studio. I was tiny compared to him, but I fit perfectly in his arms. 

Jason tumbled out the window at the same time my mom opened my bedroom door. Good morning, sweetie, she said to me. Then, Better get home, Jason. I saw your dad's truck turn down the street. Jason popped up from the ground to smile that perfect smile at my mom.

Thanks, Mrs. B.

Once he was gone, I turned to my mom. You knew he was here? I threw back the covers and got out of bed.

Yes, I knew. Your window is loud and so are you. You've never had an inside voice, Annabelle. She smiled so I knew she wasn't mad. I don't think your dad knows, though. We'll keep it our little secret. Get dressed, we're going out for breakfast with your grandma.

Dad's not making pancakes? I didn't hide my disappointment. I loved my dad's pancakes and the extra crispy bacon he cooked. It was Saturday tradition.

Not today. Your grandma wants to give you a graduation present.

I wasn't close with Grandma Ann. She was my dad's mother and lived in Charleston. Her first husband died in a car accident when my dad was just a kid, and she married into money after that. She didn't come around often.

I changed into a short-sleeved purple top and a pair of jean shorts. My favorite shoes were a white pair of high-top Converse that were well worn.

My sister, Cassie, wore a floral sundress and curled her brown hair. I watched as she applied her makeup, and hesitantly asked her to do mine. I didn't wear makeup ever, but I wanted to look nice for my grandma, so I asked my sister for help.

She applied some eyeliner and foundation, a little blush, then in typical Cassie fashion, ridiculed my outfit. Wear a dress. I'm not sure where we're going, but you know it'll be a nicer place. No way would Grandma want to be seen at the local pancake house. She handed me a few of her dresses from our shared closet. None of them were my style because, well, dresses weren't my style. But I chose the more conservative one with the sweetheart neckline and cap sleeves. I felt so uncomfortable.

Half an hour later, we pulled into a country club parking lot. Brooke Falls was home to the rich kids of Magnolia Cove—the kids who looked down on the others for not having top-of-the-line designer clothes. I shopped at K's Supermarket and was happy with it. Designer clothes were ugly if you asked me. My sister was different, she used to work summers as a waitress in this very country club. She loved this lifestyle.

My grandma sat at a table in the center of the room, sipping a mimosa and chatting up the locals. She somehow knew everyone in town, and they all thought she was such a delight. I felt my eyes rolling before I knew I was actually rolling them.

Be nice, my dad whispered as he nudged me forward. He wore a polo shirt and a pair of khakis. We both looked out of place here.

Hi, honey! So glad you could make it. My grandma kissed Dad's cheek and didn't bother to wipe away the bright red lipstick stain. She proceeded to hug my mother and sister before pulling me tight against her large chest. The Bryant women were blessed in that department. There's my sweet girl. I'm so proud of you, honey. Come, sit. We have lots to discuss. We all sat, and I gave my dad a pleading look to do most of the talking. He simply covered a laugh with a fake cough.

Order anything you like. The food here is delicious. Hillarie, Cassie, join me with a mimosa, won't you? She was already flagging down a waiter. I recognized him right away, a friend from school. Marcus Ergot.

Yes, ma'am, what can I get you? He glanced around the table and his eyes fell on me. Trying to hide behind the menu epically failed. Annabelle? What a nice surprise. I didn't know you were part of Brooke Falls.

I'm not. Just visiting, I explained quickly. I'll take a Dr. Pepper to drink.

Dad ordered the same and Mom and Cassie took her up on the mimosa order.  And endless pancakes for the table, please. My grandma ordered. Scrambled eggs and sausage okay with everyone? she asked, and we agreed. Marcus slinked away to put in the order.

This is going to be really expensive. I whispered to my dad.

She has a nice credit card and Frank is loaded. Don't worry about it. He winked and sipped his soda.

How do you know our waiter, honey? she asked me. She called everyone honey.

We go to the same school. He's been a good friend since freshman year.

The Ergots are wonderful people. I play Bridge with his grandmother, Leslie, from time to time.

I didn't know that. I don't see him much outside of school. It was true. We hung out as a group down by the lake, but I hadn't spent one on one time with Marcus. I didn't know much about him.

His dad runs this club. His sister, Mallory, has an accounting degree and works the books. Marcus is going to take over the business when he's old enough.

He lives here in Brooke Falls? I asked. Marcus didn't dress like a rich kid. He wore sneakers and kept his hair slicked back. He was like something out of an S.E. Hinton novel. Like a real life Sodapop Curtis.

Oh, yes. When Frank's in town, he plays golf with the Ergots. You really should get to know him better. He'd take wonderful care of you.

I wanted to bring up Jason, my boyfriend of three years, and I was about to until my mom kicked me under the table. They wanted to have a nice breakfast, which meant I had to bite my tongue. According to my mom, I had a smart mouth and a bad temper.

While we ate our to-die-for buttery pancakes, Grandma Ann talked about the summer vacation she and Frank were going on. She was tired of the beach and all the tourists, so he was whisking her away to a mountain retreat. Aspen, maybe? I wasn't really listening.

Now, Cassie, there's good money in house sitting. I'd make it worth your while. You'd have your own room. Frank wants to rent the house out as an Airbnb, but I don't like strangers in my home. Think it over and let me know by next Friday, will you, honey?

Cassie's face lit up and her blue eyes sparkled like the ocean. I'd say yes right now if I could take Logan along.

Logan was Cassie's three-year-old son. He was with his dad this weekend. Cassie and Logan's dad, an older man named Thomas, briefly dated before she got pregnant. They weren't a good couple, but he was a good dad.

His father is involved, yes? Charleston isn't far away, three hours if traffic is bearable. I'm sure you could work something out. What are you doing for work right now? She ordered a Coke when she finished her third mimosa.

Cassie almost looked embarrassed. She picked at her fingernails when she was feeling uncomfortable.

She's working at Papa Joe's right now. They're looking at her for management, my dad spoke up.

That's good. Is that what you want to do, Cassie? Manage a restaurant?

No, I'd like to renovate the old bed and breakfast. Now she was smiling again. She has talked about that bed and breakfast for years. I've even drawn up plans.

I'd like to see those plans. I'll tell you what, show me the plans and if I like what I see, I'll help you out. You'll watch the house for me this summer and in return I'll back your plans financially.

You'd do that? What about Frank?

Frank will agree with me. He loves you girls as if you were his own grandkids. We'll talk after breakfast, okay? She slid her syrup-soaked plate to the side and looked at me, then my dad. Trace, how's the bar doing? Do you need anything?

We're doing good, Mama. Sales are good, the live music brings in a crowd. He reached over and squeezed my mother's hand. Hillarie and I even have money in savings. I can't thank you enough for all you've done for us.

My dad opened the The Cliff before Cassie was born. His dream was to be a rock star like Jon Bon Jovi or James Hetfield, but when my mom found out she was pregnant, he wanted to stay home and be close to her. The band broke up and he turned to his mom and Frank for help. They paid for the building and gave him enough to get started. Eventually he paid her every cent back. My dad's always had a good mind for business.

Good, I'm glad to hear it. She turned her attention to my mom. Hillarie, how are things with you? Still working with Willow?

Willow Goodwin owns the daycare/preschool in town. She's my grandma's age and they were friends as kids.

Yes, ma'am. She treats me well and has made me the lead two-year-old teacher. Business has steadily picked up. We're all very happy, Ann.

That's what I like to hear. She crunched on a piece of ice before settling her attention on me. Annabelle, my youngest sweetheart. She reached over and took my hands in hers. How are you doing? I know graduation is next week and your dad tells me you're at the top of your class.

I'm second, actually. Jordi is the valedictorian. You remember her, don't you?

Jordi Thompson, my best friend, and Jason's cousin.

Of course, I remember her. Preacher Glenn's daughter. Wonderful girl. There's no shame in being second. You're number one to me. She winked and settled back in her seat. What's your plans for after school? College? Work? What do you want to do?

College. Magnolia University has the best Animal Sciences program in the state. I have scholarship offers.

Animal Science? You have always loved animals. I remember when you were a little girl and bringing home every stray you found. That's great. The scholarship news is wonderful.

We're very proud of her, my dad said. I'm more than pleased that she wants to stay close to home. Her mom and I won't have to worry so much about her.

Do you plan to stay home or live in the dorms? I went to Magnolia University, and the dorms were great. You're close to home but still have that privacy and independence. What do the scholarships cover?

Scholarships only cover tuition and books. I would have to stay home. Where was she going with all this?

How about this, I'll pay for you to stay on campus. A girl needs to learn independence. Would that be okay with you, Trace?

If that's what Annabelle wants, I'm okay with it.

It's settled then. We'll drive over to campus this afternoon and I'll arrange it all. You can drive us, in your graduation present. It should be at your house any minute now.

My what? You got me a car? I couldn't believe it.

Frank drove it down. He should be at your house by the time we get there.

I looked to my parents wondering if they were going to let me accept such an expensive gift. Cassie didn't go to college, but she received a car at her high school graduation too.

Are we ready to go? Dad asked, looking pleased with how breakfast went.

The drive from the country club and the mansions back to our small two-bedroom, one bathroom house seemed to drag on so slowly. Magnolia Cove was a small town with a population of only 1200. The drive should have been quick, but I guess because I was excited, my house couldn't come into sight soon enough.

Sitting there in the driveway was a cherry red Chrysler Sebring convertible. I bolted out of the backseat of Dad's car and practically leaped into Frank's arms. This is so cool! I love it! Thank you! Thank you so much! I hugged him and then hugged my grandma so tight she had to catch her breath.

Can I drive it to work?

It's yours, honey, drive it wherever you like. You're working today? I was hoping to spend some time with you. Call your boss, I'm sure they'll understand.

I worked part-time at K's Supermarket. The only grocery store in town. It was our version of Walmart.

Oh, go on ahead. We're here all weekend. We can drive over to the campus Monday morning before Frank and I leave for Charleston.

I couldn't believe it. My very own car! I quickly changed out of the dress and into my work uniform. I left the makeup on because when I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I thought I looked pretty.

Everyone was sitting in the living room talking about nothing when I came through to say goodbye. Grandma Ann kissed my cheek and so did Frank.

What are your plans for after work? Mom asked, she had her feet stretched out across Dad's lap.

I was going to see Jason. Have dinner on the pier. I felt everyone's eyes on me and that made my voice shake. Is that okay?

Yeah, of course, my mom said with a wave of her hand. My parents adored Jason.

You're still seeing the boy from next door? Ann questioned. Her voice reeked of judgement.

Yep. We've been together three years now. I stood up a little straighter, ready to defend my relationship.

Ann nodded her head. And what are his plans for the future?

He wants to sing. He's been sending out demos for months now. He's really talented. Isn't he, Daddy? My dad taught Jason how to play the guitar and the piano.

He's very talented. He has a wonderful future ahead of him, Mom.

She clicked her tongue. You'll stay together while he tours? You know my friend Meredith was married to a singer. The whole relationship fell apart soon after he hit the road. He wouldn't stay faithful. Now, I'm not saying Jason would do that to you. I barely know the boy, but you need to consider what's best for your heart, Annabelle. I don't want to see you hurt.

Jason would never cheat. He loves me. I said with finality. This conversation was over. I'll see you guys tonight. I'm gonna be late to work.

Jordi was the only cashier when I walked through the door, so I hopped on the register beside her and clicked on the open light. I wasn't late to work; Jordi was always early.

Are you wearing makeup? She stepped really close to my face once we got through our long lines. No way. My best friend doesn't wear makeup. Where's Annabelle? She started looking around the store.

I couldn't help but laugh at her. Stop it. I had breakfast with my grandma at the country club. Did you know Marcus' family owns that place?

She flipped her long, pin straight black locks over her shoulder. "Yeah, you didn't? The Ergots