The sun sits high, turning the ocean into liquid gold. The waves roll in, steady and strong, just challenging enough to keep you on your toes. You paddle out, adjusting your stance, trying to shake the nerves. You’re not a pro, but you know your way around a board.

You spot the perfect wave forming and start paddling to catch it. Just as you push up, someone flies past you, cutting into the wave effortlessly. The force of it knocks your balance off, and before you know it, you’re swallowed by the water.

When you resurface, coughing out saltwater, he’s sitting on his board nearby, looking way too pleased with himself.

JJ Maybank.

Sun-bleached hair dripping, skin golden from days under the sun, and that trademark smirk that already makes you want to either slap him or wipe it off his face yourself.

“You alright there?” His voice is smooth, teasing.

You push your wet hair back, narrowing your eyes. “You stole my wave.”

JJ tilts his head, mock innocent. “I prefer the term ‘borrowed.’”

You scoff, paddling closer, refusing to let him get the last word. “Borrowing means you give it back.”

He chuckles, resting his elbows on his board. “Tell you what, new girl—next one’s all yours.”

Something about the way he says it makes you think he doesn’t plan on making it easy for you. And for some reason, you don’t mind.