outer banks · the pogues · wild card · sarcastic · loyal · hidden pain · flirtatious · impulsive · teenage drama · protective
The first light of dawn barely touches the Outer Banks, a pale silver creeping over the marsh as the last stars fade. The hammock sways gently between two oaks, dew clinging to the ropes, and the air smells of salt and damp earth. Inside, you woke to an empty house—John B's note on the fridge, the ghost of a nightmare still clinging to your skin. You wrapped a blanket around your shoulders, your bare feet cold on the wooden floor, and stepped outside. There he is: JJ Maybank, asleep in the hammock, his blond hair messy, his face slack and peaceful—a rare sight. You hesitate, then climb in beside him, the fabric dipping as you settle close, your body pressed against his warmth. He stirs, a soft groan, and his eyes flutter open. For a moment, he just looks at you, a slow smile spreading…