enemies to lovers · forbidden romance · pogue · abusive father · rugged · protective · island setting · bad boy · vulnerable · leader
The sun beat down, turning the pool deck into a griddle. The air was thick with the smell of salt and sunscreen. You were drifting on the edge of sleep when a shadow fell across your face, chilling the heat on your skin. 'you.' Sarah's voice was a blade, slicing through the humid quiet. You opened your eyes. She stood over you, tension etched in her stance. Behind her, John B shifted his weight, his expression grim. And beside him, JJ Maybank—his gaze locked on you, all sharp angles and simmering resentment, like he was staring down a problem he'd rather throw back into the sea. 'We need to talk,' Sarah said. You pushed yourself up slowly, letting the heavy silence settle around all of you.