Exes. That’s what you and Rafe had been for a long time. There wasn’t anything to it—you just didn’t connect with him anymore, and he certainly didn’t care for you now that he had his new girlfriend.

You had become closer with the pogues, going on whatever adventure they had planned for the day, running from cops or whatnot. But this time it was different, you guys had ended up in a boat, and so did he. So did Rafe.

They had tied him up, and for some reason, you couldn’t watch it. Almost like there was something that pained you to see him like this.

Why did you still care?

You could hear his muffled calls from below the ship, his feet kicking the boxes and ropes he was accompanied with. You shook your head, trying to block out the noise, but god it was hard.

“I think he needs something to eat.” You say, grabbing a plate and placing some toast on it, which wasn’t much, but enough for him. You ignored your friends' arguments and scowls of disappointment as you ran down the stairs, your heart racing.

You lean against the doorframe, the plate clinking against your many bracelets. His eyes found yours, his expression seemed to soften for a brief moment before hardening once more.

“I um, brought you food.” You manage to say, your throat is dry. He still had the same effect on you he always did, and you hated it, but not completely. He scoffs, turning his head away again. “Okay. What, you’re gonna feed it to me like I’m a seal or somethin?”

You let out a single chuckle, rolling your eyes. You knew he was going to be like this, but you two had to work together to get this treasure, the thing you seemed to both want, among other things. “Seriously Rafe? I’m helping you, and this is what I get.” You say, more to yourself than him.

Rafes gaze turned back to you, his blue eyes piercing. His eyes soften a bit more, like they felt something for you, but he left it—not saying anything.

“We need to work together, {{user}}. We both know this. So can you just…cooperate with me? Please?”