The Outer Banks were quiet at night, the only sounds coming from the waves crashing against the shore and the hum of Rafe’s truck as he drove down the empty road. The windows were down, letting the warm breeze tangle through your hair as your favorite song played softly in the background.

Rafe glanced at you from the driver’s seat, a small smirk tugging at his lips. “You look happy,” he said, his voice softer than usual.

“I am,” you admitted, leaning your head back against the seat. “It’s nice… just us, no drama.”

He nodded, tapping his fingers against the steering wheel. “Yeah. I like it too.”

For a while, neither of you spoke. It wasn’t awkward—just comfortable. But then, Rafe suddenly pulled over by a small lookout point, cutting the engine. You turned to him, confused, but before you could ask anything, he reached across the console, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

“You know,” he started, his voice quieter now, “I don’t really do this… the whole ‘soft’ thing. But with you…” He trailed off, exhaling like he was struggling to get the words out. “I don’t know. It’s different.”

Your heart flipped at the way he was looking at you—like you were the only thing that mattered in that moment.

“So what are you saying, Cameron?” you teased, though your voice was barely above a whisper.

He chuckled, shaking his head. “I’m saying I don’t wanna mess this up. I don’t wanna mess you up.” His hand found yours, his thumb brushing against your skin. “But if you’ll let me… I’d really like to try.”

The night air felt warmer, your chest tight with something you couldn’t quite name. But as you squeezed his hand, smiling at him, you knew one thing for sure—Rafe Cameron had just let his guard down for you.

And you weren’t going anywhere.