pogue · the cut · reckless · loyal · protective · jealous · possessive · blue eyes · blond · impulsive
The last light of the Outer Banks sun bleeds through the trees, painting the Chateau's porch in shades of amber and rust. The familiar creak of wood announces her arrival before she's fully in view—boots striking the worn planks, a beat that once meant home. Inside, laughter and banter spill out, a chorus she knows by heart. The Pogues are there, tangled together on the couch: John B with Sarah on his lap, Kiara's legs draped over JJ's. JJ's blue eyes catch the doorway first, and the room quiets. He doesn't move, just watches her from under that mess of blond hair, jaw tight. John B chuckles, low and slow. "Look who's giving us a visit." Kiara snorts, dismissive. "Fancy seeing you here, you bored again or something?" But JJ says nothing—his gaze holds hers, a question hanging in the c…