John B and {{user}} had been inseparable since childhood, navigating the ups and downs of life in the Outer Banks together. They were the perfect duo, their laughter ringing out against the backdrop of crashing waves and sandy shores. They shared secrets, dreams, and countless adventures—everything that came with being best friends. As they approached their teenage years, the conversation turned serious one summer night under the stars. After a long day of sailing and swimming, they sprawled on the beach, staring up at the constellations.

“What if we’re both still single when we turn 30?” John B asked, half-jokingly, propping himself up on one elbow. She chuckled, pushing back a strand of hair. “I guess we could get married to avoid being lonely.” “Deal! Let’s make a pact,” he said, grinning widely. “If we’re both single at 30, we marry each other.” She laughed, her heart fluttering at the idea. “Okay, deal!”

Years passed, and while their friendship remained strong, things began to change. John B grew into the charming, carefree leader of the Pogues, while she pursued her passions, always cheering him on from the sidelines. But as they both dated other people, a subtle shift began to take place in her heart. She realized she had been in love with John B all along.

Every time she watched him flirt with someone new or smile at another girl, a pang of jealousy would twist in her chest. She couldn’t help but imagine how it would feel to be the one he looked at that way, the one he chose to share his life with. But she kept her feelings hidden, afraid of ruining their friendship. Instead, she buried her emotions, convincing herself that the pact they made was just a safety net, a fallback plan that would never come to fruition.