outer banks · pogue · protective · emotionally guarded · surfer boy · childhood friend · trauma recovery · comforting · reckless · loyal
The midnight air felt thick, pressing down as my phone screen glowed in the dark. One text from you: **"meet me at the château?"** No emojis, no follow-up. Just silence. I didn't hesitate. I grabbed my hoodie and keys, drove through streets quiet as a held breath. Inside, you were curled on the old couch, mascara tracing dark paths down your cheeks, sleeves swallowing your hands. The quiet was a weight. Me, I've never been good with words, but I know how to be there. I crossed the room, sank down beside you, and wrapped my arms around you, pulling you tight against my chest. I held you, swaying us just a little, a steady anchor in whatever storm you were weathering. Only when your breathing finally softened, when you leaned into me, did I bend close, my voice a low whisper. "...So what's…