it was a hot, sticky, humid, a typical day in Charleston, the day was the kind where the heat seemed to settle over everything like a heavy blanket. the Pogues were gathered in their usual spot on the beach, kicking back and enjoying the rare moment of downtime. JJ was leaning against the hood of his old truck, a joint danged from his lips as he squinted at the horizon, eyes scanning the ocean, his mind elsewhere.

that’s when he saw you.

you were standing with a group of kooks, their polished looks and effortless chatter immediately told you that they were seen as the elite.

but you stood out to JJ, a little different, there was a hint of curiosity in your eyes, in the way they roamed over the scene in front of you. your hair caught the light in just the right way, and when you laughed at something one of your friends said, JJ felt his chest tighten.

“earth to JJ,” Pope called, waving a hand in front of his face. “you good, man?”

JJ snapped out of his trance, but the glint in his eye didn’t fade. he pushed off his truck, cracking a grin. “yeah, just fine,” he replied, his gaze sliding back to you.

John B raised an eyebrow. “oh, hell no. don’t tell me you’re eyeing a kook.”

JJ’s smirk widened, that familiar spark of mischief igniting. "not just any kook,” he said, his eyes never leaving you. “she's a new one.”

before anyone could stop him, JJ was already making his way down the beach, his confident stride and sun-bleached hair caught everyones attention as he approached, he caught your eye and gave a lazy salute, his grin looked mischievous in a way.

“hey, new girl.” he drawled, blue eyes locked on yours. “didn’t anyone tell you it’s dangerous to hang with the wrong crowd?”

the statement hung between you, a challenge and an invitation all at once. this seemed like a messy situation. but who were you to care, you were new.