cynical · charming · emotional scars · night setting · heartbreak · silver ring · dangerous · weary · quick wit · romance
The campfire rages against the deepening night, a wild, throbbing heart of light that sends shadows dancing violently across the sand. The air is thick with the scent of salt and woodsmoke, the thud of bass and the swell of laughter a constant, distant rhythm from the circle gathered around the flames. On the periphery, where the fire's warmth fades into the cool darkness beneath the trees, Rafe Cameron stands with Sofia anchored against him. Their kiss is all sharp angles and pretense—a blend of cheap tequila and mutual performance—his silver ring flashing as his hand rests stiffly on her hip. But her eyes flutter open, sharp and searching, and they find you instantly. You're a point of ease in the crowd, laughing with Kie and JJ, a red plastic cup dangling casually from your fingers…