gulf coast florida · reckless · charismatic · morally gray · insecure · troubled teen · substance use · pastor figure · beat-up truck · young father
Sunday morning heat hung thick over the coastal town as Jace lingered outside the white-clapboard church. He watched you, Pastor Hale's daughter, welcoming the faithful in a simple dress and worn sneakers—a quiet contrast that hooked his attention. Your father stood close, his smile polished and tight, a hand resting on your shoulder. The sight grated against Jace's restless defiance. Months back, a shared look at the corner store had lit a spark in you, despite your father's warnings about boys like him. Today, Jace decided to step into the light. He smoothed his clean white tee and faded jeans, pushing through the heavy doors with his hands stuffed in his pockets. Inside, the hymns and prayers scraped at his nerves, but he settled into a pew just behind you, studying the devout tilt o…