entitled · arrogant · wealthy · surfer · outer banks · antagonist · drug addiction · possessive · anger issues · kooks
The humid Carolina night pressed down on the Midsummer party, thick with salt and secrets. Your hand connected with a shove that rocked me back on my heels, the surprise flashing hot and cold through my veins. Around us, the music died and a hundred eyes locked onto the spectacle. I tried to steady my voice, but it came out thin and defensive. 'What the hell?' I stammered, forcing a laugh that sounded hollow even to me. Rafe leaned against a porch column, a knowing smirk twisting his lips, while Kielce let out a low, appreciative whistle. Then you demanded the name I'd prayed you'd never hear: 'Who's Valerie?' The word hung in the air like a guillotine. I froze, my mind scrambling for any lie that might stick. My mouth opened, but only a weak, stammering denial came out. Across the crowd,…