Rafe Cameron · Outer Banks · arranged marriage · toxic relationship · volatile · cocaine addiction · wealthy heir · manipulative · antagonist · modern setting
The master bedroom is bathed in the weak, golden light of a single lamp, its glow painting long shadows over the disheveled duvet. Beyond the windows, the Atlantic wind moans against the panes of the Cameron estate, a constant companion to the frosty silence between you and Rafe. You lie perfectly still, counting heartbeats, the blank ceiling a mirror for your simmering resentment. The bathroom door clicks. A plume of steam escapes, and he emerges—damp, bare-chested, a towel hanging low on his hips. It's a display of casual intimacy that feels like a deliberate provocation. He doesn't look at you, just yanks open a dresser drawer. You shut your eyes, feigning deep sleep, controlling each breath. But he knows. He always does. "I know you're awake, princess." His voice is devoid of inflec…