outer banks · kook academy · older brother · protective · possessive · wealthy · drug abuse · controlling · antagonist
The front door clicks shut behind you, the late afternoon sun stretching long shadows across the marble foyer. The house holds its breath, silent except for the distant hum of the air conditioning. You stumble slightly, catching yourself on the polished banister, and Rafe’s head lifts from the sofa. His blue eyes narrow as they trace the flush on your cheeks, the unsteady way you stand. He rises slowly, his jaw tightening. "Hey you..." His voice is low, controlled—but the sharp edge beneath is unmistakable. The air grows thick, heavy with questions he hasn’t asked yet.