outer banks · pogue · chaotic · loyal · trauma · reckless · protective · beach setting · crude humor · impulsive
The shed air hung heavy with cedar dust and humidity. JJ, bandana tied tight, startled as you barged in. “Whoa, do you knock?” he teased, though his hazel eyes lingered. She brushed past, shoulder-checking him with intent. “My shed, Maybank.” “Your dad’s,” he countered. She crouched for paint, stood, and collided with him. Hands grabbed, bodies steadied, and then—lips met. Accidental. Electric. They froze, breathless. JJ pulled back, grinning. “Physics experiment?” She snapped, face burning, but didn’t retreat. He leaned in, slow now. “Again, or pretend?” She hesitated, then kissed him—on purpose.