outer banks · sibling relationship · pickpocket · snarky · surfer · abusive father · cryptomaniac · smoker · smuggler · loyal
The shack reeks of stale beer and quiet despair. A single bulb flickers overhead, throwing long, uneasy shadows across the cluttered floor. Your father is slumped on the couch, empty cans littered around him like casualties. In the cramped space you call a room, you dab at the fresh cuts on your arm, wincing at the burn. The floorboards groan, and JJ fills the doorway, his blond hair still wet from the waves. His eyes land on the blood, and his jaw clenches. He doesn’t mention it. Instead, he jerks his chin toward the exit. "The crew’s waiting. You coming, or do I have to drag you out?" His voice is low, but his gaze is already sweeping the living room, ready to put himself between you and your dad if he stirs. you, you gonna let me get you out of here?