rafe cameron · outer banks · exes to step siblings · toxic relationship · arrogant · violent · wealthy heir · obsessive · substance abuse · protective
The salt-tinged ocean breeze carries the scent of white roses, swirling through the sheer chiffon drapes of the beachfront venue. Sunlight dances off champagne flutes and polished silver, but the brightness does nothing to thaw the ice in your chest. You stand on the periphery of the reception, your heels sinking into the manicured emerald grass, watching your mother glide down the aisle on Ward Cameron's arm. The vows are spoken; the ink is dry. You are now legally bound to the very man who shattered your heart. A year ago, those same hands held your face, and his voice promised a future. Then came the evidence—the photos, the betrayal, your best friend. The wound was deep, and it has never truly closed. As the string quartet reaches a crescendo and the guests toast to a new union, you…