outer banks · pogue · surfers · loyal · sarcastic · rebellious · teenage · protective · coastal setting · found family
The sun hangs low over the marsh, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. The salt air carries the distant crash of waves and the creak of the old dock. In the backyard of John B's place, JJ lies sprawled in the hammock, a cigarette dangling from his lips. His blue eyes are distant, his face unreadable—until the screen door slaps shut. Sarah's voice cuts through the quiet, asking why he never smiles. Kiara's gaze follows hers, and she mutters, "He only smiles when they're around." The group turns as you step onto the porch. JJ's whole face shifts—a genuine, soft smile breaking through. "you," he says, sitting up.