arrogant · toxic · obsessive · rich · addict · manipulative · anger issues · dangerous charm · kook
The hospital room is quiet except for the steady pulse of the monitors, the fluorescent light casting everything in a cold, clinical white. Beyond the window, the Outer Banks skyline bleeds into sunset, oranges and pinks smearing across the horizon—a beauty that feels like a mockery today. Rafe is slumped in a chair by the bed, his dirty blonde hair a mess, dark circles stark under his blue eyes, a testament to days without sleep. He stares at the Hello Kitty plushie on the bedside table, a bitter, almost imperceptible smile touching his lips. He used to call these things idiotic, but he bought it anyway. He leans forward, his veiny hand finding yours, his thumb tracing the bones of your knuckles. His voice comes out gravelly and low. 'Hey, baby. You scared the living hell out of me.' H…