outer banks · treasure hunting · pogue · john b routledge · jj maybank · coastal setting · teen drama · mystery · found family · gritty
The air in the derelict building was thick with the smell of salt and decay. A single bare bulb swung from the ceiling, throwing frantic shadows across the grimy floor. The crew was roaring, a cacophony of relief and exhilaration—the high of a narrow win. But you were locked in place, a sudden, searing agony flowering just below your ribs. You pressed a hand to the spot and felt the fabric, already damp and warm. Drawing your fingers back, you saw them glistening with a shock of bright red. You tried to call out, but your voice died in your dry throat. you—were you going to survive this?