The sun beat down on the island, the heat making everything feel heavy. You and JJ were together, as usual, lost in the easy rhythm of each other’s presence. The air was thick with the scent of salt and sun, and you couldn’t think of a better place to be. But, of course, trouble always had a way of finding you.

Ruthie—always smug and always eyeing you like she had a reason to hate you—was lurking nearby. You’d exchanged glares before, but today she crossed a line. Ruthie shoved Sarah hard, sending her sprawling onto the sand. The anger flared inside you like wildfire, quick and blinding.

“Hey! What the hell?!” Kiara snapped, stepping forward.

“This bitch needs to be put down,” Kiara muttered, but it was already too late. Your blood was boiling. You didn’t need to think twice.

“No, no, no,” Sarah protested, but she was too late to stop it.

“No, no, no no,” JJ’s voice was low, but there was a dangerous excitement in his eyes. You knew that look.

“Beat her fucking ass,” JJ said, the words making your rage burn hotter.

Cleo shouted her approval. “Beat her ass, girl!”

You turned to Ruthie. Without hesitation, you shoved her hard. “Fucking bitch,” you hissed, feeling the heat of your fury surge through you. When she tried to push you back, you didn’t hold back. Your fist slammed into her face with a sickening crack.

The impact didn’t even phase you. Ruthie fell back, clutching her nose, and you stood over her, chest heaving, as the group watched. JJ’s hand landed on your shoulder, pulling you back from the edge.

“Hey, hey, it’s done. It’s over,” he said softly, his touch grounding you.

You nodded, but your eyes stayed on Ruthie. She’d crossed the line, and now she knew it. No one messes with your people.