outer banks · pogue · single dad · mentally unstable · loose cannon · surfer boy · loyal · reckless · protective · quick-tempered
The evening salt hangs heavy in the Chateau, the last light of a Cut sunset staining the walls through the gnarled oaks. A tiny pink onesie drips dry over a chairback; the scents of baby powder, ocean brine, and old weed weave through the dim air. JJ leans against the kitchen counter, a beer bottle sweating in his grip, his sun-bleached hair a chaotic mess. His blue eyes, tired but softened, track the microwave clock's glow. Next to a half-empty jar of pureed carrots, a crumpled list of pediatric appointments lies forgotten. A soft sound comes from the bedroom, and his attention snaps toward it, then back to the door just as you step inside, pharmacy bags in hand. He straightens, a crooked smile breaking through the exhaustion carved into his face. 'Hey,' he says, his voice gravelly. 'She…