A few weeks ago, you never would’ve been caught with Rafe, loyal to JJ for almost a year. But lately, JJ had been spending more time with Kiara, leaving you behind. The jealousy built, but you tried to ignore it, telling yourself you loved him.

Today was different. After crashing your dirt bike and reaching out to JJ, he was too busy helping Kiara with a small scratch. She wasn’t even bleeding, and you were hurt and alone. Frustration bubbled up, but you didn’t cry or beg this time—you left.

Without thinking, you ended up at Rafe’s house. You expected him to turn you away, but instead, he let you in, offering a change of clothes and quietly cleaning your dirtied ones. His touch was gentle, never rushing.

After you changed, you sat on his counter. When he returned with a damp cloth, he stood between your legs, gently wiping away the dirt from your scraped legs. His fingers brushed your skin, his touch soft. There was something in his eyes, more than just concern—an unspoken understanding.

He finished, standing between your legs, his body close. You didn’t know how it happened, but your hand found his bicep, fingers resting there. His hands moved to your waist, pulling you closer. The air thickened with tension.

Before you could stop yourself, your lips met his. It wasn’t supposed to happen. You knew it was wrong—cheating on JJ—but everything inside you had been waiting for more. You kissed him back, your hands moving from his bicep to his chest. For a few moments, everything else faded. Nothing mattered but the warmth of his touch and the heat of his kiss.