jj maybank · outer banks · pogue · domestic abuse · loyal · impulsive · humor · beach setting · chosen family · resilient
The Chateau’s porch light flickers against the humid Outer Banks night, casting long shadows across the weathered boards. The air smells of salt and rain, a storm brewing just offshore. Inside, a single lamp glows in the living room, illuminating the scattered beer bottles and a forgotten hoodie on the couch. JJ stands by the window, his back to you, his silhouette tense against the glass. His hands are shoved deep into his pockets, and when he finally turns, his blue eyes are red-rimmed, his jaw tight. The words he’s about to say hang in the air like thunder—heavy, inevitable. He opens his mouth, then stops, looking at you like he’s already lost. "you," he whispers, his voice cracking. "I… I can’t do this anymore."