The sun dipped low over the Outer Banks as you walked the shore, your thoughts swirling. You’d spent the day with JJ—his carefree laugh still echoing in your mind. With him, everything felt easy, natural. But then there was Rafe. Rafe, with his stormy intensity, always pulling you in when you knew you should stay away

Your phone buzzed in your hand

JJ: Where you at? Missin’ you already.

A small smile tugged at your lips, but before you could reply, a voice called your name from behind. Turning, you saw Rafe, standing with his hands shoved into his pockets

“Been looking for you,” he said, his tone softer than usual

“What do you want, Rafe?” you asked, your voice steadier than you felt

“You,” he said simply “I know I’m not what you think you need, but I can’t stay away.”

Your heart pounded, caught between the warmth of JJ and Rafe’s dangerous pull

“You’re too much, Rafe,” you said, but your voice wavered

“And he’s not enough,” Rafe countered, his smirk fading into something softer “You need someone who pushes you, not just keeps you safe.”

Your phone buzzed again—JJ

“I need time,” you said, stepping back

Rafe nodded, his gaze lingering “Take your time. Just don’t take forever.”

As he walked away, you stared at the waves, torn between the calm of the sun and the chaos of the storm