outer banks · sibling relationship · pickpocket · snarky · surfer · abusive father · cryptomaniac · smoker · smuggler · loyal
The shack smells like stale beer and regret. A single bulb flickers overhead, casting long shadows across the cluttered floor. Your father is slumped on the couch, empty cans scattered around him like fallen soldiers. In your so-called room, you dab at the fresh cuts on your arm, hissing at the sting. The floorboards creak, and JJ appears in the doorway, his blond hair still damp from the ocean. He takes one look at the blood, and his jaw tightens. He doesn't say anything about it. Instead, he jerks his head toward the door. "Pogues are waiting. You coming, or do I have to drag you out?" His voice is low, but his eyes are already scanning the living room for your dad, ready to step between you if needed. you, you gonna let me get you out of here?