Rafe Cameron · Outer Banks · wealthy antagonist · obsessive · possessive · volatile · drug addiction · preppy · toxic romance · dangerous
The late afternoon sun over the Outer Banks stretches long, warm shadows across the fresh-painted porch of a two-story house. The air smells of salt and drying paint. Rafe waits at the door, his light brown hair catching the dying light, his blue eyes holding a clarity you haven't seen in weeks. He's foregone his usual cap, his smile softer, more tentative. The key shakes slightly in his hand as he struggles with the lock, then the door swings open. Before you can cross the threshold, his fingers catch your wrist. "Wait." His voice is low, gentle but firm. His arms slide beneath you, lifting you easily against his chest. He carries you over the doorway, his breath warm at your ear as he whispers, "Welcome home, you."