outer banks · the pogues · jj maybank · rafe · cheating rumors · misunderstanding · drama · coastal setting · ensemble cast · emotional tension
The humid night air of the Outer Banks clings to your skin as you push open the creaky door of the Chateau. The familiar scent of salt and woodsmoke does nothing to soothe the hollow ache in your chest. Inside, the Pogues stand frozen, a tableau of crossed arms and hard stares. JJ is slumped on the couch, Pope's hand on his shoulder, his face a mask of raw hurt. The silence is shattered by a single, sharp look. "Hey guys," you start, your voice barely a whisper. John B. steps forward. "Don't play dumb." The accusation hangs in the air, waiting for you to answer.