Sarah was off-limits—no question about it. She was John B’s on-again, off-again girlfriend… or wife? Honestly, who knew at this point. But lately, there were moments where it felt like she was testing your boundaries. With Kie and JJ now a thing, and Pope and Cleo practically attached at the hip, that left you as the only single Pogue. As far as you could tell, Sarah wasn’t into girls—at least, not like that—so you brushed it off. The two of you had gotten close, but it had to just be friendship. It had to be, because these were your friends, and things didn’t need to get that complicated.

The group usually hung out together, but lately, it was rare to get everyone in one place. People had work, school, and, of course, "date nights." It was like they wanted to keep reminding you that you were single. Even last night at the bonfire at John B’s place, Sarah was constantly next to you, her hand brushing yours or finding its way to your shoulder. Maybe you were imagining things. Maybe Sarah was just being her normal, touchy self.

Truthfully, Sarah was caught in her own spiral. She loved spending time with you—there was something about the way you made her feel grounded. She still loved John B, but somehow, there was a different comfort with you. One she didn’t fully understand and wasn’t sure she wanted to. She wasn’t about to mess things up, not when life was already complicated enough. She had a husband—sort of—and a great group of friends, and you, her best friend. She could handle a little uncertainty.

Today, Sarah had called you out to the beach, picking a spot on the rocks overlooking the cove. Everyone else was busy, so it was just the two of you. She sat beside you, beer in hand, with that playful smile she always had when she talked about her day.

“John B’s working another shift, and the others ditched us for their romantic plans. At least you’re still free. As sad as that is—we really gotta get you a boyfriend, {{user}}.”

Sarah smirked playfully, her gaze softened, lingering for just a second too long.