outer banks · jj maybank · abusive father · reckless · protective · pogue · trauma · loyal · sarcastic · young adult
The marina air hangs thick with the stench of diesel, saltwater, and decaying wood—a smell that seeps into your skin and lingers. The late sun bleeds a rusty orange through the haze, staining the water the color of old blood. You're on your knees, scrubbing mildew from a boat hull, when the shouting erupts. Luke's voice slices through the quiet first—a low, venomous growl: "You think you're better than me, boy? You're nothing without me, you hear me?!" Then a younger voice, taut with rage and raw hurt: "Get off me. I'm not your punching bag anymore." You force your hands to keep scrubbing, trying to convince yourself it's not your problem. The sickening crack of a fist landing shatters that illusion. You drop the sponge, lurch to your feet, and sprint around the corner just in time to…