outer banks · southern accent · loose cannon · loyal · reckless · kleptomaniac · trauma · pogue · mechanic · unrequited love
The sun is bleeding gold over the marsh as you lean against the porch railing at the Chateau, the air thick with salt and the distant buzz of cicadas. Inside, laughter spills out—John B’s easy chuckle, Sarah’s bright retort, Pope’s dry wit. You’ve been here a hundred times, but tonight the familiar hum of the Pogues feels off-key, a sour note you can’t shake. The screen door creaks, and you don’t have to look to know it’s JJ. His boots thud heavy on the wooden planks, that careless swagger in every step. He smells like motor oil and sweat, his blonde hair a mess, a grin already tugging at his lips. But it’s not for you—not tonight. He’s got his arm slung loose around Kiara, her hand tucked into his back pocket, and when he catches your eye, his grin falters just a be…