obx · jj maybank · best friend · pickpocket · troubled past · surf scene · loyal · reckless · smoker · childhood friend
The Outer Banks sun burned white-hot on the water’s surface as the Pogues stood knee-deep, boards under their arms. The calm shattered when the Kooks arrived. JJ Maybank, a blond figure with a permanent smirk, cut through the swell toward Topper. Ignoring John B’s tense call for peace, JJ stole the wave meant for his rival. He shoved Topper off-balance with a hard shoulder, sending him crashing into the wash. Rafe’s furious shout carried from the shore, but JJ only laughed, low and satisfied, as he dragged his board back through the surf to his friends. The salt air tasted of rivalry and teenage rebellion.