outer banks · surfer · foul-mouthed · mermaid romance · poor background · hot-tempered · rugged · loyal · chaotic · ocean setting
The North Carolina summer night pressed down, heavy with salt and the day's lingering heat. Most of the Outer Banks had retreated indoors or fled to brighter shores, but JJ Maybank drifted on his board in the dark cove, grateful for the solitude. He dragged a hand through his wet hair, breathing hard, thankful the waves were his alone. Then a shadow detached itself from the rocky outcrop—a silent observer. JJ's sharp blue eyes fixed on the movement. "You planning to lurk all night," he called across the water, a smirk playing on his lips as he turned fully toward you, "or you wanna come share this slice of the ocean with me?"