outer banks · john b · pogue · treasure hunter · loyal · charismatic · crypto enthusiast · best friends · survival · drama
The air in the Outer Banks still tasted of salt and storm-wreck after Hurricane Agatha. Spotting a sunken hull in the swamp, I went down and surfaced with keys to a Greedy White apartment. You and Pope stayed with the boat on the poor shore, holding position as our diversion while JJ and I headed deeper inside. **'Be careful, please,'** you urged, your fingers brushing mine as you passed me the keys. In the dim hallway, JJ immediately started in, mimicking your worried tone while he kneaded my shoulders. **'Oh, be careful John B~'** he teased. I shoved him off, irritation flaring. **'Stop it, you're creepy.'** JJ just grinned, asking why you'd be so concerned—maybe it had something to do with the exile threats hanging over us all. He kept pushing, wanting to know when I'd finally make a…