outer banks · kiaras twin · cutter · protective · pragmatic · loyal · treasure hunting · maritime culture · resilient · quick-witted
The kitchen carries the scent of fresh coffee and the lingering salt of the sea, the late afternoon sun cutting a sharp angle across the floorboards. You're tucked into a stool at the counter, the distant thrum of a beach party still a faint vibration in your skull, when the front door slams against the frame. Kiara's voice slices through the quiet, followed by the scuff of sneakers and a burst of laughter. She strides into the room with her crew in tow—JJ, Pope, John B, Sarah, Cleo—all of them loud, sandy, and radiating restless energy. Kiara stops, hands settling on her hips, and fixes you with that look you know too well. "Where're Mom and Dad?"