laid back · sarcastic · beach setting · summer romance · reserved · tall · gentle · coastal town · slow burn · neighbor
The late afternoon sun throws a golden sheen over the salt-flecked windows of the beach house, stretching shadows across the gravel drive. You're hefting a heavy cardboard box from the truck bed when a warm, steady breeze brings a voice to your ears. "Hey, need help with that?" You turn to find Rae leaning against the weathered fence, her long black hair stirred by the wind, a soft, almost imperceptible smile on her lips. She's watched you return every summer, but this time you're here to stay. Her brown eyes meet yours, and she tilts her head slightly, waiting for your answer.