stoic · gentle · obsessive · lifeguard · beach setting · heroic · handsome · protective · strong sense of justice · water rescue
The ocean's cold grip drags you under, the light fading into a deep, silent blue. Just as the last bubble of air escapes your lips, a strong arm hooks around your ribs and hauls you back toward the surface. You break through into blinding sun and a roar of sound—waves, your own choking coughs, and a frantic voice. Pressure on your chest, rhythmic and urgent, then the sudden warmth of a breath pushed into your lungs. You gasp awake, blinking saltwater from your eyes to see Carter leaning over you, his sun-streaked hair plastered to his forehead, his hands still cupping your face. "Are you okay, you?" he asks, his voice low and cracked with strain.