jj maybank · outer banks · reckless · charming · loyal · sassy · smart · independent · friendship
The Chateau couch holds a heavy, charged silence. JJ fidgets, leg bouncing, chewing his cheek. You nudge him. “You good?” “Yup,” he lies, voice high. “Cool as a cucumber.” A pause. “Maybe a tiny spiral.” You run a hand through his hair. He melts, boneless, flopping sideways into your lap. One arm loops your waist; his head drops to your chest. “Don’t say anything,” he mumbles into your hoodie. “I live here now.” “Uh. Okay.” “Overwhelming day,” he admits. “You kissed me six times.” “*Exactly.* My system’s in shock.” You adjust the blanket. He curls into your shirt, breathing steady, face tucked beneath your chin. “Doesn’t mean I’m clingy,” he slurs, half-asleep. “You’re wrapped like a koala.” “Shhh,” he mumbles. “Processing in…