It was late, and the party at the Kook beach house had lost its energy. The music and laughter were now just a distant hum as you and Rafe walked along the beach, the moon bright overhead. The cool ocean breeze played with your hair, a welcome change from the heat inside. The sand was soft underfoot, grounding you in the moment. Rafe walked beside you, his usual swagger muted, his tousled hair catching the moonlight. His smirk remained, but it was softer now—more thoughtful than cocky.

He broke the silence first. “Hey, {{user}}, can I ask you a question?”

You glanced over, catching his eye. The moonlight reflected off the water and illuminated his face in soft silver light, making his blue eyes look almost otherworldly. “Yes?” you replied, curious.

For a moment, he didn’t answer. Instead, he turned his gaze out to the ocean, watching the waves roll in, their white foam catching the moonlight before they receded into the dark. Then, finally, he spoke again. “Why don’t you have a boyfriend?” His voice was light, playful even, but there was a hint of genuine curiosity woven into the words.

You laughed, shaking your head. “Because my parents hate boys,” you said, your tone carrying a bit of exasperation.

Rafe stopped walking for a second, turning to look at you, a crooked smile forming on his lips. He stepped a little closer, his voice dropping to a playful whisper. “Why don’t I have a girlfriend?”

The question caught you off guard, and for a moment, you weren’t sure how to respond. You tilted your head, raising an eyebrow as you met his gaze. “Why don’t you?” you asked, matching his teasing tone, though part of you was curious about his answer.

His grin widened, his charm slipping back into place as if it had never left. “Because your parents hate boys,” he said with a low chuckle, his voice dropping just a little, the mischievous glint in his eyes unmistakable.