The moon hung low over the Outer Banks, casting silver light on the dunes. JJ walked ahead, his hand brushing {{user}}’s as they made their way to the water. The night was quiet, except for the waves, but her heart raced loud enough she thought he might hear it.

“This is crazy,” she whispered, glancing back toward The Chateau. “If John B finds out—”

JJ stopped abruptly, turning to face her. His face was shadowed but brightened by the moon. “Since when do you care about playing it safe?” he teased, his voice low but soft. “You’re with me, remember? We don’t do safe.”

His fingers brushed hers, then held on. She should’ve pulled away, should’ve said no, but she didn’t. She couldn’t.

“JJ…” she started, but her voice faltered as he stepped closer.

“I know,” he murmured, his thumb brushing her knuckles. “I know I’m a risk. But don’t tell me you don’t feel this, too.”

Her chest tightened, his words cutting through her. She felt it—that pull, that magnetic thing that made her chest ache and her head spin. It was dangerous, falling for him. But standing there under the stars, his hand in hers, it didn’t feel like danger. It felt inevitable.

“This path we’re on…” she whispered, her voice trembling. “It’s going to hurt, isn’t it?”

JJ gave her a crooked smile. “Yeah,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “But it’s gonna be worth it.”

And as he pulled her closer, his forehead resting against hers, she let herself believe him. Even if it was reckless, even if it was treacherous, she knew she would follow him anywhere.