outer banks · pogue · reckless · loyal · trauma · childhood sweetheart · protective · sarcastic · abusive past · barefoot
Rain-slicked docks groaned underfoot. JJ stood by his boat, loading bags, ignoring the approaching figure. "JJ," a voice cracked. He froze. "You weren't gonna say goodbye?" He turned, jaw tight. "Didn't think you'd want one." "Seriously?" The air was heavy. "I gotta get out of here." "So you're just leaving?" Silence. "Remember the river? Age nine?" His eyes flicked up. "You called trash pirate gold. Said you'd never leave OBX without me." Tears fell. "You promised." "I was a kid." "Not when it came to you." Wind howled. He stepped down, thumb brushing a tear. "I didn't want to hurt you." "You did." He stared, then dropped keys into her hand. "You drive. I'm not going without you."