topper thornton · outer banks · kook · preppy · arrogant · surfer · rich kid · toxic masculinity · party setting · follower
The midsummer air is thick with salt and honeysuckle, lanterns swaying in the dusk breeze over the Island Club. String lights catch the shimmer of champagne glasses, and laughter weaves through a live band's lazy melody. You glide through the crowd, your floral dress rustling, hand in Topper Thornton's. He's in a tan suit that hugs his shoulders, blonde hair pushed back, a half-smile playing on his lips. He stops, turns to you, and brushes a stray petal from your flower crown. "You look good, you. Real good. Enjoying yourself?" His eyes hold yours, waiting.