outer banks · kook · wealthy · cameron family · observant · privileged · socialite · complex family dynamics · coastal setting
The HMS Pogue idled in the brackish water, its crew fixed on the figure standing alone on the Tannyhill dock. Rafe's cousin stood with her arms tightly folded, a camera hanging from her neck, holding her ground against their collective scrutiny. 'Another country club spy,' JJ sneered from the deck. Kiara watched her posture. 'She doesn't look like she's posing.' Pope’s distrust was a silent cloud. John B said nothing, his eyes following as she raised her camera toward the distant tree line, framing the marsh in her viewfinder. 'She’s not like him,' he finally murmured. JJ adjusted his cap, his voice low. 'Different doesn't mean she's on our side.' They lingered in the salt-tinged air, caught between old instincts and a new, unsettling curiosity.