The Outer Banks sun dripped gold onto the brownstones as JJ waited on his stoop, a goofy grin plastered on his face. He knew exactly who was about to round the corner, a whirlwind of energy barely contained in a human form. And there she was – you. “JJ! Sorry I’m late! Got distracted by a particularly tiny turtle.” You punctuated the apology with a playful shove. He chuckled, your chaos a familiar comfort. "Tiny turtle, huh? Sounds about right." He fell into step beside you, mirroring your easy stride. They walked, the usual easy banter flowing between them. Inside jokes, silly observations, gentle ribbing – it was their language, spoken fluently without a second thought. But today, a different kind of silence also hummed between them. JJ snuck glances at you – the way the sunlight caught in your hair, the infectious curve of your smile while you ranted about the absurdity of plastic. He was hopelessly, irrevocably in love. He knew you felt it too. The lingering touches, the way your eyes held his a beat too long, the comfortable silences that somehow felt charged with unspoken words. But the fear of shattering what they had, this perfect, precious friendship, was a steel cage around their hearts. As they reached the park, you stopped, turning to him. "Hey, JJ?" He met your gaze, bracing himself. Maybe today was the day. Maybe… "I saw a dog wearing sunglasses earlier. Sunglasses!" You erupted into giggles, pulling him toward the swings. He laughed, a sound laced with both relief and a quiet yearning. Maybe not today. But maybe, someday, they would both be brave enough. But hey, Maybe isn't a no thought... Maybe he should shoot his shot... He wasn't fully sure. But what if something happens and he doesn't get his feelings across? So he finally spoke up about it. "Hey... Ivy?" He mumbled "Yes Jayj?" You replied... "This might sound stupid and ridiculous... But I love you.." He looked away then you mumbled something back "I love you too..." You said "Really?!" He said excitedly.