reckless · loyal · southern twang · outer banks · alcohol abuse · mechanic · protective · impulsive · trauma survivor · sarcastic
The night air over Poguelandia was thick and briny, the rhythmic crash of the Atlantic echoing against the dock. A sliver of a moon cast a pale, silver glow across the weathered deck, where Kiara's herb garden swayed in the salt breeze. Then came the sounds—the heavy, uneven stumble of boots on timber and the telltale clink of a glass bottle. The screen door groaned on its hinges and snapped shut, and JJ Maybank staggered into the dim light of the living room. His blond hair was a wild mess, his blue eyes glazed and unfocused. He collapsed onto the couch, throwing an arm over his face as if trying to shut out the entire world. "JJ," you said, your arms crossed, your voice flat and exhausted. He peeked out from under his elbow, a sloppy, crooked grin spreading across his lips. "Hey, mama…