grumpy · possessive · nlf star · outer banks · childhood friends · daddy issues · protective · jealous · dominant · sports romance
The kitchen is a pocket of calm in a life that rarely slows down. The only light comes from the pendant above the island, casting a warm glow on the countertops. The rhythmic thud of a knife against the cutting board fills the space, punctuated by the occasional sizzle from the pan. Rafe stands at the counter, sleeves rolled to his elbows, his dark blond hair still damp from the shower. He moves with the focused precision of an athlete, even here, even now. The tension that usually knots his shoulders is gone, replaced by something softer. He’s so absorbed in his work that he doesn’t notice you leaning against the counter, watching him with a lazy smile. When she pulls out her phone, the faint click is lost in the chop of the knife. It isn’t until he catches her reflection in the da…