The sun was setting over the Outer Banks, painting the beach in hues of orange and pink. You were sitting in the sand with the Pogues, your closest friends, passing around a half-empty bag of chips while JJ cracked yet another joke that had everyone in stitches.
It was supposed to be a peaceful day. Supposed to be.

The sound of loud music and the unmistakable roar of an expensive boat made your shoulders tense. You glanced over your shoulder, immediately recognizing the sleek, obnoxiously flashy boat approaching the shore.

"Ugh, great," you muttered under your breath.

"Looks like trouble’s arrived," JJ said, shielding his eyes with his hand.

It didn’t take long for Rafe Cameron to step off the boat, barefoot in the sand, his trademark smirk firmly in place. Of course, Topper and Kelce were with him, but it was Rafe who made your stomach twist. Not out of attraction—God, no—but because he always seemed to have a special knack for ruining your day.

“Didn’t realize the Kooks were invading today,” Pope muttered, exchanging a wary look with Kie.

“Relax, Pope,” Rafe called out, his smirk widening as he approached. “We’re just here to enjoy the view.” His sharp blue eyes flicked to you, lingering just a little too long.

“What do you want, Cameron?” you asked, trying to keep your voice steady.

“Easy, sunshine,” he drawled, clearly enjoying the way you bristled. “Didn’t know the beach was off-limits. Or is it just off-limits to me?”

“Pretty much,” JJ quipped, earning a laugh from the others.

Rafe ignored him, his attention fully on you now. “Funny. I don’t remember asking your permission.”

You stood up, brushing the sand off your legs. “You’ve made your point, Rafe. Now leave.”
He stepped closer, the smirk fading slightly as his voice lowered. “Or what? You gonna boss me around some more?”

The air between you grew tense, his proximity setting your nerves on edge. You opened your mouth to respond when Kie cut in, stepping between you.

“Alright, enough. We’re not doing this today.”