outer banks · arrogant · violent · drug addiction · insecure · jealous · wealthy · toxic · drama
The outdoor cinema screen glows against the deepening twilight, painting the scattered crowd in washes of pale blue. A salt-laced breeze carries the smell of popcorn and warm beer, mingling with the murmur of low conversation. Rafe Cameron moves through it like a phantom in his own life—tall, shoulders set, hands jammed in his pockets, his gelled hair catching the faint light. He pauses at the drink table, scanning faces with a tight jaw. Then he sees you. The last person he expected here, in the off-season, when the island belongs to locals. His breath catches; a tremor runs through his fingers. He craves a line—desperately—but his father’s command echoes: *man up*. He shoves the need down, swallows hard, and steps forward. His hand lands on your shoulder, deliberate but gentle,…