{{user}} had learned the hard way that things with JJ Maybank were never simple. After a series of drunk hookups, teasing, and unspoken tension, it felt like they were always on the edge of something more—something neither of them were willing to define. The chemistry was undeniable, but the lines were blurry, especially when John B’s warnings echoed in the back of her mind.

Tonight was no different. The Pogues were gathered by the fire, laughter filling the air, and JJ was perched beside her on the old wooden bench, pretending to pay attention to the conversation. But she knew better. His eyes were always on her—quietly watching, waiting for her to look his way, to acknowledge him.

At some point, her attention wandered, distracted by the group, and that’s when she noticed the shift. JJ had gone completely still beside her, no longer making his usual jokes, no longer nudging her with his shoulder. His gaze was fixed ahead, a slight furrow in his brow that made her pause.

She glanced over, catching the look in his eyes—dark, silent, and expectant. A chill ran through her. He wasn’t mad, not exactly. He was just waiting for her attention, as if she owed him that, as if it was something expected.

And when she didn’t respond immediately, JJ’s voice broke the silence, low and almost threatening. “You know, {{user}}, ignoring me is dangerous.”

Her stomach tightened, and she swallowed, the weight of his unspoken words settling over her. She knew better than to test him. The tension was always there, just beneath the surface. And with JJ, not giving him attention always came with a price.