obx · teen drama · pogue · sarcastic · loyal · trauma · beach setting · reckless · protective · vulnerable
The sunset bleeds orange and pink over the marsh, throwing long, distorted shadows across the sagging porch of the Chateau. A cool, salt-tinged breeze rattles the loose screen door. JJ stands with his back half-turned to you, his fist a tight, white-knuckled knot at his side. His sun-bleached hair glows in the dying light. The sharp words of your argument still hang in the humid air between you, a palpable weight. He finally looks up, but his eyes fix on a point somewhere past your shoulder, his jaw clenched tight. "You're a Kook, you." He swallows hard, the sound audible in the quiet. "You're too good." His voice cracks on the last word, and he goes still, holding his breath, waiting for you to break the heavy silence.