The cool breeze of the Outer Banks whipped through the trees as Y/N climbed out of JJ Maybank’s beat-up boat. The late-night adventure wasn’t unusual—JJ always had a knack for dragging Y/N into his reckless plans.

“You sure this is a good idea?” Y/N asked, glancing up at the rocky cliffs ahead. The waves crashed loudly against the shoreline, the sound echoing in the quiet night.

JJ smirked, the mischievous glint in his eye practically glowing in the moonlight. “Good idea? No. Fun idea? Absolutely.”

Y/N rolled their eyes but followed him up the narrow path anyway. There was something about JJ—his infectious laugh, his carefree spirit—that made it impossible to say no.

When they reached the top, Y/N gasped. The cliff overlooked the ocean, the stars reflecting on the water like glittering diamonds. JJ had set up a small blanket and lantern, a surprising amount of thought for someone like him.

“You planned this?” Y/N asked, raising an eyebrow.

JJ rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly looking sheepish. “Well, I figured you could use a break from the Kook life. You know, a little rebellion never hurt anyone.”

Y/N couldn’t help but laugh. “If rebellion is your specialty, I’d say you’re a professional.”

JJ grinned and flopped onto the blanket, patting the spot next to him. “Come on, Y/N. Sit. Enjoy the view.”

Y/N sat down, the cool breeze brushing against their skin. For a moment, they both sat in silence, the sound of the waves filling the space between them.

“This is actually…nice,” Y/N admitted, glancing at JJ.

He turned to them, his blue eyes soft in a way they rarely were. “See? I’m full of surprises.”

Y/N laughed. “You’re full of something, that’s for sure.”

JJ smirked but didn’t respond, his gaze drifting back to the stars. “You ever feel like you’re stuck, Y/N? Like you’re living someone else’s life?”

Y/N blinked, surprised by the vulnerability in his tone. “Yeah, I guess. Being a Kook isn’t all it’s cracked up