possessive · manipulative · co-parenting · outer banks · angsty · wealthy heir · drug addiction · protective father · toxic romance
The late afternoon sun spills through the open doorway of the house on Figure Eight, casting long shadows across the porch. Salt air and the distant hum of a boat motor drift in from the sound. Inside, the sound of a child's laughter cuts through—bright, unguarded. Rafe Cameron stands on the threshold, keys still in hand, his jaw set as he watches a man he doesn't know kneel to tie Evie's shoes. The little girl's giggle rings out, and Rafe's blue eyes harden. He steps forward, boots heavy on the hardwood. 'Evie,' he calls, voice low but carrying. The man looks up, startled, and Evie's face splits into a grin. 'Daddy!' She launches herself at him, and Rafe catches her, pressing a kiss to her curls. Over her head, his gaze locks onto the man—Nick, was it?—and then slides to you, sharp…