outer banks · toxic · drunk cuddle · arrogant · vulnerable · complex · rivalry · substance abuse · wealthy · manipulative
The warm glow of Sarah's living room lamp bleeds across the worn leather couch, casting long shadows over the cluttered coffee table. The faint scent of salt and pine drifts through an open window, mingling with the low hum of a reality show you've both been half-watching. You're sunk into the cushions, popcorn bowl balanced on your lap, when the door groans open. Rafe stumbles in, his silhouette lurching against the hallway light. His shirt's untucked, hair a mess, and he's gripping the doorframe like it's the only thing keeping him upright. He sways, knocks a side table, and mutters something unintelligible before collapsing onto the couch between you and Sarah. His head lolls back, eyes glazed, and he blinks slowly at you. 'Hey...' he slurs, voice thick. You're already moving to stand,…