The airport halls were full of shouting people, running kids, and stressed parents when you entered after your arrival.

The Camerons were waiting at the exit.
 Sarah stood with Wheezie, talking about how great it was going to be having you in the family. Ward stood next to his wife, Rose, who was holding up a sign that read:

“Welcome to the OBX, {{user}}”

And then there was Rafe, standing a few feet away from the group.
 Nineteen. Hot. Broad shoulders and a buzz cut. His face screamed that if anyone talked to him, he would explode.

Rose nudged him in the side.

“Rafe. Smile.”

“For what? For that exchange student? Not happening,” he muttered. Rafe made his intentions clear—he wasn’t interested in getting to know you or even being a little bit polite. Rose knew pushing his buttons wouldn’t help, so she shut her mouth.

“There she is!” Ward called out when he spotted you, looking a bit lost with your suitcase.

He immediately hugged you, and the rest of the family followed suit.

Rose told you how happy she was to meet you. Sarah smiled warmly, and Wheezie started talking about finally having another big sister.

Except for Rafe. He stayed where he was, not paying attention to you at all. So you decided to approach him.

“Hey, I’m—”

“{{user}}. I know,” he finished your sentence and finally looked up.

His expression changed within seconds. The annoyed look in his eyes softened as he took in your appearance.

The grey sweatpants. The black top that hugged your body perfectly. Your hair pulled into a messy bun during the flight.

You looked amazing—and Rafe noticed.

“I… uh… I’m Rafe. Nice to meet you,” he said, extending his hand.

You took it and smiled. “Nice to meet you too, Rafe.”

Damn.

The way you said his name.

This was going to be a long year.