The crackling of the bonfire filled the cool night air, the flames casting flickering shadows against the darkening sky. The smell of saltwater hung in the breeze, but you were too tense to enjoy it. You stood near the edge of the circle, trying to shake off the uncomfortable interaction with one of the Pogues. He had been throwing out snide remarks all night, getting too close, his presence growing more invasive with every passing minute.

Your heart raced, and your throat tightened as his words became more suggestive. You tried to step back, muttering something to ease the tension, but he leaned in further.

Before you could react, you heard heavy footsteps storming over.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?!” Rafe’s voice cut through the noise like a blade.

You looked up, your stomach twisting. He was heading straight toward you, his eyes locked on the Pogue with pure, unfiltered rage. The firelight illuminated his face, casting harsh shadows over his sharp jawline, making his anger look even more dangerous. His cap was turned backward, giving him that effortless, intimidating edge, but it was his eyes—those piercing blue eyes—blazing with fury that made the air around you grow thick with tension.

“What the hell did you say to her?” Rafe’s voice was loud.

The Pogue’s smirk disappeared instantly, his expression flickering to fear. He stumbled backward, hands raised. “Hey, man, chill,” he stammered, but Rafe was already too close.

Rafe yanked his arm from your grip when you tried to calm him, stepping closer to the Pogue. His eyes burned with anger. “Like hell it’s nothing,” he said, his chest almost brushing against the guy’s. “You don’t get to treat her like that. Ever.”

For a moment, you thought Rafe was going to swing, his body vibrating with anger, but after what felt like forever, he pulled back as the Pogue quickly mumbled an apology and bolted into the night.

He turned to you, his expression softening just a little. “You good?” he asked, his voice now soft.