“Oh my gosh, Tommy,” Grace said, in a tone that was both horrified and flirtatious at the same time. It was a real skill to strike that tone, something I would practice later in the mirror. “I am so sorry that my son has”—she looked pointedly at Merit—“lost his mind. Are you okay?” She practically purred the last part.

The middle-aged, portly man stood up taller and rubbed his lapels. “Took a punch from the best quarterback this town has ever seen and didn’t even lose my balance.”

Oh, Lord. He was for real flirting with her. She didn’t seem to notice.

Instead, she looked at us and said, “Car. Now.”

“Both of you,” Mom chimed in.

We were in big, fat, huge trouble. But I was so happy. I squeezed Merit’s hand. He squeezed mine back. He had stood up for me; he had punched a judge for me. The lights twinkling overhead, the smell of the salt air, the floating melody of the orchestra, and Merit’s hand in mine… I was grounded forever and ever, for sure. But this was still the most perfect moment of my entire life.

JUNIPER SHORES SOCIALITE

@junipershoressocialite

Sharing bad behavior and delicious drama in North Carolina’s most exclusive coastal zip code. DM with tips, pics, and juicy deets.

SEPTEMBER 7, 10:40 P.M.

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You didn’t hear it from me, but…

PIC 1: Alice Bailey wasn’t the only one coming out tonight.… The newly divorced owner of everyone’s favorite Juniper Shores bar is here looking fit and fabulous—with a new man on his arm. More on that later.

PIC 2: Let’s cut to the chase: The punch heard round the world will go down in history as the most epic moment ever to take place at Belle Epoque on the Beach. And we aren’t surprised. Is there anything Merit McDonald can’t win? A state championship. A battle with the town’s judge. The heart of every girl in town?

PIC 3: Despite that, though, the crown for biggest scene at Belle Epoque goes to… drumroll please… Sophie Parker for her version of crazy high school girl obsessed with her boyfriend! Sophie, darling, you’re better than that. And, if we’re being honest, you should be a little bit glad that Iris Sitterly didn’t punch you. (She’s learned things in prison, you know.)

We will be back with more bits and pieces from Juniper Shores’ most fabulous night. Because what good is a party without the recap after?

TNT (’Til Next Teen Drama)

JUNIPER SHORES SOCIALITE

Charlotte #freebill

I drove Grace, Merit, and Iris home, and we texted Elliott to ask him to please make sure Julie got home. We figured he didn’t need to be reminded to get Alice home safely. The party was only a four-minute drive from the house, but it felt much longer since we rode in total silence.