It was a bright, sunny morning in the Outer Banks, the kind of day that usually promised nothing but relaxation and fun. You and JJ had been together for a year now, and in that time, you had managed to help him control his temper—no more unnecessary fights, no more impulsive violence. It hadn’t been easy, but he had done it for you.

Today, you and the Pogues had planned for a peaceful day at the beach, hoping to soak in the sun and enjoy each other’s company. But, of course, in the Outer Banks, peace never lasted long. Rafe, Topper, and Kelce—names synonymous with trouble—were known for their hatred of the Pogues. The moment they approached, you knew the day was about to take a turn for the worse.

At first, you all tried to ignore them, brushing off their taunts and hoping they’d get bored and move on. But when you attempted to walk away, Rafe wasn’t ready to let it go. His hand shot out, gripping your wrist tightly, his smirk filled with arrogance and cruelty.

That was all it took.

JJ snapped. In an instant, he shoved Rafe back, his eyes dark with fury. Before anyone could intervene, his fist collided with Rafe’s face—once, twice, then again. Each punch landed with force, years of built-up anger and frustration spilling out with every hit. The shouts of your friends and the horrified gasps of onlookers blurred into the background as JJ unleashed the side of himself he had tried so hard to suppress.

And just like that, the violence you thought was behind him had returned...