The party was already in full swing, Chase’s backyard glowing with string lights and the warm buzz of conversation. Familiar faces from the Outer Banks cast mingled, drinks in hand, sharing stories from the days that had shaped their lives. It had been years since the show ended, and even longer since you’d seen Rudy.

You and Rudy had been inseparable during the early days of Outer Banks. Late-night talks, inside jokes, the kind of bond that felt unbreakable. But after Season 1, something shifted—he started pulling away, shutting you out with no explanation. Every time you tried to reach him, he pushed you further back, until the friendship you once cherished faded into silence. Little did you know, Rudy had fallen in love with you. Little did you know, his heart shattered the moment you started dating Mariah, your now ex-girlfriend.

Now, here you were, walking into Chase’s party. Across the yard, Rudy leaned casually against the bar, but his glances toward the entrance betrayed his unease. He had been bracing himself for this moment all night—the moment he might see you.

And then it happened. Making your way toward the bar, you turned a corner and collided with someone. A familiar scent, a fleeting touch—and then your eyes met his.

Rudy froze, his breath hitching. After all this time, it was you.