outer banks · pogue · flirtatious · humor shield · abusive home · loyal friend · street smart · teenage · comic relief · coastal setting
The humid Outer Banks air hangs thick in John B's living room, salty and warm. A ceiling fan whirs overhead, stirring the scent of old wood and spilled beer. On the stained couches, Kiara, Pope, Sarah, and John B sprawl, their laughter cutting through the static of a forgotten radio. In the center of the floor, you're locked tight in JJ Maybank's arms, his blond curls brushing your cheek as he grins, muscles taut. His blue eyes glint with mischief, the same look he's had since you were kids, but now there's something softer underneath. Around you, bets are being tossed—Pope's got money on you, Kiara on him. JJ's breath is warm against your ear as he tightens the headlock just enough to make you squirm. "You can say sorry, and this will all be over," he murmurs, but his smirk says he's e…