Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
Pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: mentions of violence and guns, mentions of injuries and trauma, swearing (GIF not mine).
ANGE’S POV
The whole thing should’ve felt like a win.
We found the gold hidden beneath Mrs. Crain’s house, melted down the wheat-shaped bars, and somehow turned centuries-old treasure into cash.
Instead, we ended up at gunpoint in the middle of nowhere. Honestly, that is starting to feel pretty on brand for us.
The thug orders us out of the Twinkie, John B first. The rest of us follow one by one. I’m second last, and JJ climbs out right after me, subtly pushing me behind him.
A second later, we’re facedown on the road with the gun still trained on us. I end up beside JJ. Out of the corner of my eye, I can see his chest rising too fast, his ringed hands gripping his cap tight. He turns his head slightly toward me. I force a weak smile. Terrified, but fine.He gives the smallest nod back.The guy tears through the Twinkie while yelling threats at us, and suddenly it clicks—the pawnshop lady set us up.
I hear movement, then John B shouting, “I got the gun!”JJ’s on his feet first. The rest of us scramble after him. Together they wrestle the guy down, Pope grabbing the gold back while everyone gets at least one hit in. Everyone except me. “Porca troia! (Holy Fuck!)” I mutter under my breath, still trying to process what just happened.
Someone rips off the guy’s bandana. “I know this piece of shit,” JJ says sharply. “He sells coke to my dad.” The guy starts trying to explain himself, but JJ cuts him off with another kick.
“JJ!” I snap. He stops just before John B can pull him back. Then JJ grabs the guy’s wallet, checks the ID, and looks up with a dangerous grin.“There’s one thing I gotta do.” Before anyone can argue, he tells us to get in the car. JJ takes the driver’s seat and peels away toward the address on the license—Barry’s place.
I already know this is about to turn into a whole new kind of trouble.
“Welcome to crackhead wasteland,” Kie mutters as the Twinkie pulls up outside Barry’s place. “I don’t know about this, man,” Pope says. I stay quiet, watching JJ climb out of the van. This feels different from the kegger — more reckless, more personal. “Dude,” Pope calls after him, “why are we at Barry’s?”
“This’ll take just a second,” JJ throws back before disappearing inside. I exhale slowly, already tense. “Someone should probably go after him.”
“You wanna do it?” Kie asks. I hesitate. “No. I don’t think I’m the right person right now.”John B nods once and heads inside after him while the rest of us wait in uneasy silence.
JJ’S POV:
The second I get inside, I start tearing through Barry’s place. Cupboards. Drawers. Shelves. “I know you got a stash around here somewhere,” I mutter, tossing things aside. The front door opens behind me
“Please tell me you actually have a plan,” John B says.
“As thou hath stealeth from us, we shall stealeth from ye.” John B stares blankly. I sigh. “An eye for an eye, John B.”
“That’s a terrible plan.” I shove past him, searching another cupboard. “Guy held a gun to our heads.”
To her.
“And after you rob a drug dealer?” John B asks sharply. “Then what?”
“I’m not scared of this guy.” Finally, I spot a duffel bag shoved onto the top shelf of the closet. “There we go.” I dump stacks of cash onto the bed.
“What are you doing?”
“Getting even.” I reply while I grab the bag and head for the door, but John B catches my arm. “JJ, stop.” I yank free immediately. “If you keep going like this, you’re gonna end up just like your dad—” Everything in me snaps. I slam him against the wall by his shirt. “You watch your mouth.”
“That’s not the point!”
“Isn’t it?” I shoot back. “Aren’t you sick of people screwing us over?” John B doesn’t answer, and honestly, I don’t care if he has one, I walk out the door, straight past him.
ANGE’S POV:
JJ storms back toward the Twinkie carrying a duffel bag, John B right behind him already looking frustrated. “All right,” JJ says tightly, tossing the bag down. “Five grand each for reparations.” That tells me enough.
“So now we’re robbing drug dealers?” Kie asks while Sarah looks horrified beside her. “Barry’s gonna know it was us.” JJ barely reacts. John B reaches for the bag. “The gold’s enough, man.” JJ shoves him back against the Twinkie. “JJ,” I snap. “Let him go.” His chest rises hard with anger, but after a second he steps back.
“What are you gonna do when Barry comes after us?” John B asks. “After all of us?”
“We deal with it,” JJ says flatly. “Yeah? Great plan.”
“I’m not putting it back.” JJ makes no room for arguments.
I stay quiet after that, watching him grip the bag tighter, his jaw locked so hard I think he might crack a tooth. He’s not angry anymore. That’s the problem. John B keeps pushing while Kie and Pope start talking over each other, and I can practically see JJ shutting down more with every word.
Then Pope pushes too far. “Pope,” JJ says, quieter now, “I took the fall for you. You know how much money I owe because of that?”
“I’m paying you back, I didn’t ask you to do it.” Pope shoots back “I know!” JJ snaps before lowering his voice again. “But I did.” Silence settles over all of us. JJ looks away first, tightening his grip on the bag. “I’ll handle it myself.” He turns to leave and, before I can stop myself, I catch his arm.
He stills immediately. “JJ,” I say softly. For a second, everything else seems to fade out. He glances at me finally — quick, almost hesitant — before his gaze drops away again.
“Angela,” he says quietly. “Let go.”
The use of my full name hits harder than it should as I slowly loosen my grip. Without another word, JJ walks off, leaving the rest of us behind and for the first time today, I let him walk away.
We end up at The Wreck a little while later, everyone gathered around one of the outside tables but I don’t sit. Kie watches me for a second before speaking. “Look, he’ll come around, alright? He’s just… doing a JJ thing.” I nod, but it doesn’t help much.
Part of me keeps wondering if I should’ve gone after him. Maybe it wouldn’t have changed anything, but I didn’t even try. Pope eventually steers the conversation back to the gold, and I force myself to focus as they start planning. John B has fishing with Ward tomorrow, which leaves Pope, Kie, and me to organise everything we’ll need to get the rest of the gold out. I listen, adding in suggestions where I can, but my mind keeps drifting back to JJ.
We pulled up to the château in Pope’s truck to grab supplies. Pope and Kie had been talking when I noticed fairy lights flickering in the distance.
“Che cazzo?” I muttered. (What the fuck), Pope stopped beside me. “What the hell?”
“Who the hell is that?” Kie asked as we followed the sound of music and running water. I froze. Fairy lights covered the yard. Music played softly. And right in the middle sat a steaming jacuzzi with… JJ inside.
“JJ, what…?” I whispered. He grinned, champagne glass in hand. “I got a jet going straight in my butt right now.”
Pope blinked. “Oh, he’s drunk.”
“Y’all should get in immediately, you hear me?” JJ announced. “This is luxury.”
“JJ, what is this?” I asked.
“What does it look like, Angel? It’s a hot tub.”
“How much did this cost?” Pope asked. JJ shrugged. “Generator, petrol, express delivery…” He winced. “Pretty much all of it.” The smile fell from my face. “All of it?” Pope repeated.
“Yeah.”
“You spent all the money?” Kie asked. “Burned a hole right through my pocket.” He spread his arms. “But come on, guys. Look at this. Finest in jet-based massage therapy.”
“JJ, are you insane?” Pope muttered.
“Kie, what?” JJ snapped when she just stared. Then he looked at me. “Come on, Angel, you’ve gotta get in. What’s on your mind, beautiful?” Beautiful. That was new.
“JJ…” I said softly. “Why?”
“What do you mean, why?”
“You could’ve used this money for restitution.”
“Or given it to charity,” Kie added. “You could’ve helped us get supplies for the well,” Pope said. “Okay, well, you know what? I didn’t do that!” He stood up and I forgot how to breathe.
Bruises. Huge bruises covered the lower half of his chest.
“I got a hot tub!” he shouted. “For my friends.” Then he shook his head, the smile slipping. “Nah. Screw friends.” He looked at all of us. “I got a hot tub for my family.” His voice cracked and so did something in me.
“Guys, look what I did for you.” He laughed weakly. “Look at this.” He turned around in the water.
“JJ…” My voice broke. “No, Angel.” He pointed at me. “No emotional stuff. We’re having a good time, okay?” But the smile wasn’t there anymore. “I mean…” His voice dropped. “It’s sweet, right?” His eyes found mine. And suddenly he didn’t look drunk anymore. He looked scared. “Everything’s just…” He swallowed. “Just get in.”Before I even realised it, I was climbing into the stupid hot tub fully clothed.
The second I stepped in, JJ grabbed me.
Hard.
“I just couldn’t do it,” he said, voice breaking. I held him. “I’m sorry, Angel.” I shook my head as his grip tightened. “I can’t take him anymore,” he choked out. “I was gonna kill him.”
“JJ—”
“I wanted to. I just—he wouldn’t stop talking and I snapped.”
“Hey.” He stopped. “I can’t take him anymore.” he said. I nodded once, holding him tighter. He dropped his head into my shoulder. “I just wanted it to stop. I just wanted to do the right thing.”
“We know, J,” Kie said.
A moment later, Pope climbed out, Kie following to get towels. And then it was just us, the water hummed while neither of us moved.
“What am I supposed to do now?”
“Tomorrow, we will figure it out.” He nodded slightly. It was quiet again, but lighter now. JJ shifted, still holding my hand as he rubbed a hand down his face. “Okay,” he muttered. “We should probably not be in here anymore.”
“Probably not.” He gave a small crooked look. “Solid agreement.”
After a beat, I stepped back. “Come on.”
“Where?”
“Out.” He blinked. “I can find my own way out.”
“Yeah, I’m sure you can.”
“That was rude.”
“You’ll survive.” He scoffed but followed me out.
“Ange,” he said behind me. “You’re soaked.”
“Really? Couldn’t tell.” He shook his head, smiling as he climbed out after me. We stood there for a second, both dripping and exhausted. “So what now?” he asked. “Well,” I said, glancing toward the chateau, “once those towels that are apparently still being made at the factory arrive…” JJ tried not to laugh—and failed. “You’re coming with me.”
“Ange, I can sleep at John B’s.”
“No.”
“I’ll be fine.”
“No.”
“I don’t wanna be a bur—”
“Finish that sentence and I’ll drown you in this stupid hot tub.”
He laughed softly. “Violence. Nice.”
“Good luck arguing with me, Maybank. I was raised by Italians, remember?” That got a real smile out of him. “God help us all.”
“Exactly.”
“Oh thank god,” I muttered as I spotted Kie walking over with towels. “I was about to send out a search party.” We all laughed, grabbing towels and heading inside. JJ grabbed a few things, Kie raising an eyebrow but not asking, we said goodbye and started walking.
After a while, he sighed like he was thinking too hard. “Seriously though… where the hell did you come from?” I smiled. “Australia.” He huffed a laugh. “No, smartass.”
“Sorry. Thought we were doing obvious questions.” He shook his head, still smiling,“I mean you.” I shrugged. “Pretty sure Kie introduced us at a bonfire.”
“You know what I mean.”
“Yeah,” I said softly. Then a smile crept onto my face. “Actually, if I remember correctly, somebody spent our first meeting interrogating me.” He groaned immediately, “I wouldn’t call it an interrogation.”
“And then wandered off because maintaining his reputation was very important.”
“No.”
“Mm-hmm.”
“This is bullying.”
“This is consequences. Oh and apparently somebody forgot my name.” His head snapped up. “I remembered your name.”
“Oh really?”
“Yeah.”
“Starts with an A, right?” He groaned so loudly, I burst out laughing. “Kie talks too much.”
“So it is true?”
“No!”
“It absolutely is.”
“I knew your name!”
“Mhm.”
“I did!”
“Sure you did, pretty boy.” He froze. “Pretty boy?” I shrugged. “You called me beautiful first. Seems fair.” He smiled—really smiled—and for the first time that night, I saw just JJ again, not the bruises or the tears.
The second the door opens, the smell hits first — coffee still hanging in the air, even though it’s late, and something slow-cooked drifting from the kitchen that makes the whole place feel warm and lived-in.
The TV in the living room hums with a live football match. My dad and uncle sit at the table mid-game, cards scattered between them.
“Late one,” my uncle calls without looking up. “Yeah,” I answer.
“Angela,” my dad says, eyes still on the screen. “Hi Papà.” A pass goes wide and I click my tongue. “He had that run.”
“Troppo lento,” my dad mutters. (Too slow.) “Non è lento,” I shoot back automatically. “È indeciso.” (He’s not slow, he’s indecisive.)
And then we say it together. “Deve tirare.” (He has to shoot.) The shot comes late. Blocked and we both exhale “Idiota,” (idiot) my dad mutters “I know,” I sigh, behind me, JJ shifts quietly.
My mum appears from the kitchen doorway, wiping her hands. “Hey, love.” Then she spots him. “Oh. Hi.”
“Hi,” JJ says politely.
“You must be JJ.”
“Yeah.”
“I’ll put the kettle on,” she says warmly, disappearing back into the kitchen before he can argue. Bella wanders out, messy hair and all. “Hey, JJ.”
“Hey.”
“Still one-all?”
“Unfortunately,” I mutter. Bella groans and comes to stand beside me.“They’ve been awful.”
“Tell me about it.” JJ ends up beside us without meaning to. A break forms. All three of us lean forward.
“No—” The shot flies wide. “Oh, come on,” Bella whispers. “Idiota,” Dad mutters from the couch. “Exactly!” Bella and I whisper together.
“Shhh!” Mum calls from the kitchen. “Babies are asleep!” We all bite back our laughter. Dad finally glances over his cards and spots JJ properly. “I remember you, it’s JJ right?”
“Yes, sir.”
“You walked my girls home that night.” JJ nods. “Yeah.” Dad studies him for a second. Then nods once. “Good man. Come in.” And just like that, he turns back to the game. Bella bumps my shoulder. “They’re hopeless.”
“They still have twenty minutes.”
“Blind faith.”
“Experience.” JJ snorts softly beside us. I smile and tilt my head toward the hallway. “Come on.” He follows me.
JJ’s POV
I don’t know what I expected. Maybe awkward silence. Questions. A dad with a shotgun. Not… this.
Coffee at midnight. Football arguments in two languages. Her mum deciding I needed tea before I even sat down.Bella treating me like I’d just come back from the store instead of showing up at nearly midnight. Her dad saying, Good man, and meaning it.
Nobody stopped what they were doing when we walked in.Nobody made a fuss.They just… made room.And somehow, without anybody saying it, they made room for me too. I looked at Ange walking ahead of me down the hall, listening to her arguing with Bella over whether the striker was useless or just stupid.
And for the first time all night—
For the first time since everything with my dad—
Something in my chest didn’t hurt quite so much. I wasn’t sure what that feeling was. But I knew one thing. I didn’t want to leave.
I know everybody has moved on but what they did to bellamy blake was the worst character assassination I’ve ever seen on television and I’m still pissed off 6 years later #notmybellamy
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: mentions of violence, minor panic attack, mentions of injuries and trauma.
<-PREVIOUS PART
(GIF not mine, credit to owner)
Ange’s POV
The fire crackles to life, orange light flickering across all our faces as JJ and John B finally get it going.
JJ glances over at me, tossing another stick into the flames. “So… you’re really related to Daniel De Luca?”
I groan. “Unfortunately, yes.”
He smirks. “So you’re, like… a kook then?”
I scoff. “Please. The money’s his, not mine. My dad wanted nothing to do with it. I just pull the name out when I need it. Which you should be thanking me for Maybank, I was quite happy when no one knew.” Sarcasm drips from my voice.
I try to remain serious, my facade starting to crack at the look on jjs face but before he can fire back, Pope walks over, already stressed. “Okay, can someone tell me why I snuck out for this late-night cult meeting?”
JJ grins. “Might as well tell them, man.”
John B takes a breath, scanning all of us. “The gold from the Royal Merchant… never went down with the ship.”
“Oh my god,” Pope mutters. “Here we go again.”
“No, wait,” JJ cuts in, serious now. “Let him talk.”
John B pulls out an old letter. “It’s been here the whole time. On the island.”
Kie and I both lean forward. “You’re kidding.”
“Denmark Tanny,” John B explains, handing over the letter. “He was the only survivor. Used the gold to buy his freedom… then bought land.”
We read in silence.
“That land?” John B says. “Tannyhill Plantation.”
A beat. Then it clicks.
“The gold’s still here,” I say, stunned.
John B grins. “All we need is the original survey map.”
JJ practically tackles him in excitement. “I love this plan already.”
I laugh, shaking my head. “Alright… what’s the catch?”
John B hesitates. “Sarah Cameron’s bringing the map.”
Kie stiffens immediately. “Excuse me—what?”
I blink. “Wait… Sarah?”
JJ mutters, “This is gonna be good.” I turn to him sharply. “You knew?” He winces not answering directly but that’s an answer in itself.
The air shifts instantly.
“You told her?” Kie demands.
“I left out details,” John B says quickly.
“That’s not a no,” I cut in, crossing my arms.
Tension builds fast, voices overlapping, frustration boiling. Somehow, against all logic, we still end up piling into the Twinkie.
JJ drops everyone off one by one, no music, no comments—just the low hum of the engine filling the space where his voice usually is. By the time it’s just us, the quiet feels heavier.
He doesn’t look at me. Not once.
When we finally pull up outside my house, neither of us moves.
I reach over, resting a hand gently on his arm. “He’s going to be okay,” I say softly. “You heard them.”
His jaw tightens before he nods. “Yeah.”
But he doesn’t sound convinced.
For a second, I think he’s going to say something—something real, something like before.
Instead, his hand tightens on the steering wheel. “You should go inside.”
Not harsh. Not cold. Just… closed off.
I pull my hand back. “Okay. Thanks for the ride.”
I step out, the cool night air hitting my skin. The door shuts softly behind me, and for a moment, I just stand there.
The engine’s still running behind me but I don’t turn around.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: mentions of violence, minor graphic details,minor underage drinking
<-PREVIOUS PART NEXT PART ->
JJ’s POV:
“You’re like a little rock in my shoe. I shake my foot, think I’ve gotten it out—and dang, there it is again.”
I look up just as Sheriff Peterkin walks in.
“Maybe watch where you’re stepping,” I shoot back.
Ange would’ve laughed at that. She laughs at all the things nobody else does.
I noticed a few tears slip out yesterday when I said goodbye. I hope she slept better than I did—God knows I didn’t.
“That little rock on the back of my heel makes me want to crush it.”
Do I care? Absolutely not.
“Okay.”
Peterkin lists off the charges I’m facing.
“All in the last two weeks—you’re on a roll, chief,” she says.
Yeah, real funny.
“If you think I’m gonna rat anybody out, you’ve got the wrong idea.”
She leans in, voice low and cold.
“I know your little teen brain doesn’t like to think ahead, but I want you to come with me to uncharted territory—the future. How’re you gonna feel six months from now, sitting in juvenile prison in Wadesboro? Don’t think your new girlfriend will be too happy about that.”
My blood boils at the mention of her. Ange.
She won’t even be here in six months, but they don’t know that.
I keep my mouth shut. Smart move. All I want to know is when I can get out and see her again.
Peterkin slides some photos across the table.
I glance at them—yeah, the Square Groupers—but I don’t say a word.
She stands, tone turning low and dangerous.
“My question was, do you know these two?”
I hesitate, searching for the right words.
“They… broke into John B’s house and chased us through the marsh. Other than that, no idea.”
She pushes two more photos toward me, and my stomach twists.
I want to throw up.
“Here’s a more recent one. Somebody gaffed them and used them for chum. What do you think, bullshark?”
Her tone drops even lower.
“Here’s the bad news, chief. Whoever killed these two men is still out there. And I’ve got reason to believe their next target is a friend of yours… John B.”
She pauses for effect.
“You kids don’t think you’re the only ones after the Royal Merchant, do you?”
How the hell does she know?!
“And yeah, I know about that too.”
My pulse spikes. John B.
“Okay, Sheriff Peterkin. I promise you—he’s not involved anymore.”
“So you say. I’m just trying to keep him safe. I want you to tell your friend John B to come in and talk to me. Let’s see if we can keep you out of Wadesboro.”
With that, she walks out, leaving me to slump back in the chair. The weight of it all presses down hard.
I stare at the empty door. John B’s name echoes in my head like a warning bell.
If he’s next… we’re all walking a tightrope with no safety net.
I’m stuck between wanting to protect him—and knowing I might not be able to.
What do I do now?
Simple. Find John B before whoever’s out there does. Get him to talk to Peterkin—maybe there’s a way to keep us all alive and out of Wadesboro.
“The purple one is cute,” I say, nodding toward the dress draped across Kie’s arm. She’s been pacing the room for the last ten minutes, cycling through half her closet like she’s about to walk a runway instead of hit Midsummers.
She holds the dress up against herself, considering. “With the purple flower headband?”
I tilt my head. “Yeah. It suits you.”
And it does — the colour makes her skin glow, and the headband pulls the whole thing together. She’s going to look beautiful.
“What are you wearing?” Kie asks, turning her attention to me.
“I don’t think I’ll be going,” I say, trying to keep my tone light, but the smile I offer her doesn’t quite reach my eyes.
Kie studies me for a beat before saying quietly, “JJ’s going to be okay, Ange. This isn’t his first time, you know.”
How does she always see right through me?
“Yeah, I know,” I admit, twisting my hands in my lap. “But what if he’s not? I can’t shake this feeling — it’s like… he’s not okay until I hear it from him. The longer it takes, the worse it gets.”
The words hang between us, raw and real.
Kie sighs, soft but certain. “Just come to Midsummers. It’ll keep your mind off it. Plus, I need someone there who I actually like — which, by the way, is a very short list.”
Her deadpan delivery breaks through the heaviness, and I can’t help but laugh.
“Okay,” I give in, rolling my eyes. “Guess we’re stopping by mine after to pick out a dress for me — or can I just wear pants?”
“NO!” she yells so dramatically that I burst out laughing again. “Dress only!”
I grin, shaking my head. “Guess it’s time to dust one off. They don’t exactly get much use.”
I walk into Midsummers with my family but quickly break away, scanning the crowd for Kie or Pope. The air smells like salt and champagne — too fancy for what it’s worth — and the soft hum of strings mixes with the chatter of people who think they own this island.
I spot them near Pope’s family’s stall, where the sweet smoke of grilled fish curls into the night. They catch sight of me and wave me over, faces breaking into easy smiles.
“Have either of you heard from JJ?” Pope asks before I can even open my mouth.
Kie and I answer in perfect sync. “No.”
“He’ll be alright,” Kie says, trying for confidence. “The guy’s got the survival instincts of a cockroach.”
Pope exhales sharply, guilt flashing across his face. “It’s all my fault.”
“You didn’t do this, Pope. Topper almost killed you, remember?” I remind him gently, my voice firmer than I feel.
Before either of them can reply, a ripple moves through the crowd — polite clapping, a few forced cheers. We all turn toward the entrance.
A man in a pristine suit and a woman with a headband that could give Lady Liberty a run for her money stroll in like they own the place.
“Here come Lord Capital and the Exploiters,” Kie mutters.
“Who?” I ask, confused.
“Ward and Rose Cameron,” Pope explains. “Sarah and Rafe’s parents — well, stepmom in Rose’s case.”
“Ah, damn,” I say dryly. “Was hoping they’d be more interesting.”
They both snort, and for a moment, it feels normal again.
“I need a drink,” I announce. Kie nods, already leading the way.
We weave through the crowd, stopping briefly to greet my family. I try to play along, smile when expected, laugh at the right cues — but the music and laughter feel distant, like I’m underwater watching the world happen above me.
As I sip my drink, my eyes wander across the crowd. I know he’s not here — JJ would rather dive into a hurricane than come to an event like this — but the worry still gnaws at me.
Where is he right now? Is he okay?
The thought loops endlessly, tightening in my chest until it’s hard to breathe.
“So get this — there’s this guy I really liked before we got here,” Bella says suddenly, her voice breaking through my fog. “Total sweetheart… until he turned out to be a complete asshole.”
Kie laughs politely, but I’m barely listening. My brain registers the words — something about heartbreak and moving on — but my focus drifts again.
And then—
“Look—look, man, I can walk myself.”
That voice.
My head snaps up so fast I almost spill my drink. My pulse jumps.
JJ.
I turn, searching through the clusters of people until I see him — a few tables over, dressed in a white shirt, black vest, and a crooked bow tie that’s more chaos than charm.
But my stomach drops when I take in the rest of him.
What the hell happened to his face?
There’s a bruise blooming along his jaw, a faint cut near his eyebrow, the kind that makes you wonder if it hurts to even smile.
“I got legs, can you see that, brother?” he’s saying, tugging against the grip of a security guard.
Oh god. He’s definitely not supposed to be here.
“I really appreciate what you did for me back there,” he adds, his voice playful, slurred just enough to make my chest tighten.
This is about to get messy.
He hasn’t spotted me yet, and I hesitate — half a second of indecision — before deciding I’ll find him later, talk when things calm down.
But then:
“Mr. Dunleavy, I see you got your drink. Good, that’s really nice of you. I’m actually going to down that.”
JJ.
I can feel the crowd start to buzz — discomfort, judgment, whispers spreading like wildfire.
“It’s okay, everybody! Don’t panic!” JJ calls out dramatically. “Leave it to the men and women in uniform! Let’s hear it for them!”
He starts clapping like he’s at a comedy show, and I can’t help it — a small laugh escapes me. That’s him. That’s JJ.
Then he spots Rose.
“Rose! You look like Lady Liberty!”
Okay, now I’m laughing. Out loud. It slips through before I can stop it — half relief, half disbelief.
Security keeps trying to drag him away, but Kie’s voice cuts through the noise.
“Let go of him! You can’t just boot him!”
“Excuse me, ma’am?” one guard says, frowning.
“Ah, sir, sorry,” Kie corrects quickly.
“This one’s on me — I invited him. He’s my plus one.” Finally, I find my voice and step forward.
JJ’s eyes land on me — blue and bright even under the lights. For a second, the room fades.
He looks me over once, slow, lingering — my black A-line dress, the way the fabric moves when I shift. It hits me that he’s never seen me in something like this before.
And for a heartbeat, I swear he forgets how to breathe.
“Who are you exactly?” the security guard asks, pulling me back to reality.
I could tell him the truth. Or at least, the version that carries weight here. Once I drop that name, there’s no taking it back.
But screw it. If there was ever a time…
“Angela De Luca.”
The words drop like a stone in still water.
“Wait — you’re related to Daniel De Luca?” someone blurts out nearby.
“Yep. He’s my cousin.”
The ripple spreads instantly — whispers, glances, a few impressed murmurs.
Daniel De Luca — the soccer star, global celebrity, everyone’s favourite golden boy. My cousin. He’s the reason my family’s even here tonight.
While the crowd buzzes, JJ uses the distraction to shove the guard back gently, muttering an apology. Then, grinning like a man with a plan, he calls out:
“Hey, mandatory power hour at Rixon’s, girls! Pope, you too. Rixon’s Cove — let’s roll!”
His grin is pure chaos — a little bruised, a little reckless, and somehow still beautiful.
“All right, Kie, come on! Workers of the world, unite! Throw off your chains!”
Kie doesn’t hesitate — she bolts after him. Pope follows, groaning something about losing his mind.
But I stay frozen.
Am I supposed to go? Was that invite meant for me too, or am I just imagining it?
Then Bella nudges my shoulder, nodding toward the beach.
JJ stands there — framed by moonlight, the ocean behind him, arms wide open like an idiot who knows exactly what he’s doing.
“Waiting on you, Angel!” he calls, voice teasing but eyes locked on mine.
I glance toward Papa. He’s watching me quietly, then gives a small nod — permission, encouragement, understanding.
That’s all I need.
I hug him tight, whisper a quick thank you, and then I’m off — running toward JJ, grateful I wore flats.
When I reach him, I don’t think. I just jump into his arms.
He catches me easily — no stumble, no hesitation, like I weigh nothing at all. For half a heartbeat, that does something to me. I’m midsize; I know my body takes up space. But in his arms, it doesn’t feel like too much. It just feels… right.
He spins me once, laughter mixing with the crash of waves before setting me down gently.
For a second, neither of us says anything. He just looks at me — like he’s making sure I’m real — and I see it, the flicker of exhaustion he’s trying to hide behind that grin.
I almost ask what happened, but the words stick in my throat.
Not here. Not yet.
Instead, JJ just takes my hand, threading his fingers through mine, and the warmth of it anchors me.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: arrest, mentions of violence and injuries, minor swearing
<- PREVIOUS PART NEXT PART ->
After the fight at the outdoor cinema, the crew and I headed back to John B’s place. He wasn’t home—makes sense, he’s still on the run. As soon as we got inside, JJ disappeared into the bathroom. I figured he was trying to patch himself up.
A few minutes later, mid-conversation with Kie, a loud curse echoed down the hall. “Ow, shit.”
I sighed, already standing. “I’ll go,” I offered, making my way to the bathroom.
JJ was at the sink, fumbling with a first aid kit like it personally offended him. I leaned against the doorway. “Need a hand?” I asked, eyebrow raised.
He looked up and gave a single nod. I stepped inside, gently taking the random items he’d grabbed—none actually useful—and set them aside. Then I reached for a clean washcloth to start cleaning around his wounds.
JJ raised an eyebrow, smirk tugging at his mouth as he leaned casually on the sink.
“Want to play nurse, princess?”
I rolled my eyes, grabbing the cloth. “Careful, JJ. Keep talking like that and I might start thinking you like me or something.”
He chuckled, wincing as the laugh pulled at a cut.
“Damn, caught me,” he muttered. “Guess I’ll have to flirt quieter next time.”
I bit back a smile, gently dabbing at his split lip first, then rinsing the cloth to move on to the bruising along his neck and the scrapes on his knuckles. He watched in silence for a moment before speaking, softer this time.
“It’s late though, Ange… you need to get home?”
I glanced up briefly, then returned to what I was doing.
“I told my family there was a chance I’d be out late—or crashing at someone’s place. Probably Kie’s. They’re not expecting me back tonight.”
JJ clicked his tongue, nodding. Comfortable silence settled as I finished tending his cuts. “Alright,” I said quietly, brushing my hands off. “You should be okay now.”
I started to turn, but his hand slipped into mine—gentle, deliberate.
“Stay… please,” he said, voice lower than before.
I paused, shaking my head. “J, I really shouldn’t.”
“I’ll take you back first thing in the morning,” he cut in, eyes searching mine. “Just for the night. Kie and Pope are here too, and after what happened tonight…” He trailed off, then added softly, “It’s not safe out there. Not right now.”
I knew he was right. Not safe for any of us to split up, especially with John B still on the run and everything feeling like it could collapse at any moment.
And I wasn’t crazy—I knew there was something between us. Well… for me, there was. But it was too soon for anything real. Too messy. Trust didn’t come easy, especially with guys.
JJ seemed to sense my hesitation. He cleared his throat, leaning back slightly.
“I don’t expect anything,” he said quickly, like he could read my mind. “In case that’s what you’re thinking.”
He nodded toward his room.
“You can stay with Kie in here—this is my room anyway. I’ll crash on the couch.”
Then, after a beat, his mouth twitched into that cocky grin , “Unless you’d rather have me stay.”
Playful, casual—but definitely not casual. I giggled, hiding the small blush creeping up my cheeks.
“Alright, Maybank. I’ll—”
Before I could finish, Kie and Pope shouted goodnight from the living room, both claiming the pullout bed. Great.
I didn’t feel comfortable sleeping in John B’s bed—it just felt… off.
Before I could process anything, JJ’s voice followed low and teasing:
“Well, I guess you’re stuck with me.”
I met his grin with one of my own, letting my fingers linger on his arm.
“I never said I didn’t want it to be you.”
I turned to leave him to finish getting ready, quietly grabbing a drink from the fridge without waking anyone. His soft chuckle trailed after me.
Later, we met up with the others at Pope’s dad’s shop, the smell of grilled fish and salty air a comforting backdrop to the day ahead.
“Don’t let it get in your head, bro. There’s three of them and only two of us,” JJ said to Pope as we worked—well, Pope, Kie, and I were working while JJ juggled a ball, showing off as usual.
“That’s some typical kook shit right there,” Pope replied with a smirk.
Just then, Mr. Heyward called out from the doorway.
“Hey Pope, someone’s here to see you.”
I looked up just in time to see Officer Shoupe walk in.
JJ edged closer to me, our arms brushing. He towered over me, but his eyes were locked on Shoupe.
“I have an arrest warrant for felony destruction of property,” Shoupe said, stepping forward with handcuffs in hand.
Pope looked at JJ, who just shook his head.
Shoupe moved closer to Pope, ready to cuff him.
“Whoa, Shoupe, what did he do?” Mr. Heyward asked, his voice tight with confusion. Shit. Pope’s dad didn’t know.
“Take a look at the warrant,” Shoupe told Mr. Heyward, holding it up.
“You’re arresting him?” I demanded, stepping forward as Shoupe began fastening the handcuffs on Pope.
Chaos erupted as Shoupe led Pope toward his car.
JJ followed with Kie and me right behind, along with Pope’s dad.
He stopped just short of the cop car, then turned toward me for a split second. That look in his eyes—I couldn’t read it—before he spun back and yelled,
“It wasn’t him! It was me.”
I froze, shock hitting like a punch. Why was he doing this? Pope had drowned the boat. JJ had no reason to step in.
“He tried to talk me out of it,” JJ continued, voice steady but raw. “But I was mad… sick of those assholes from Figure Eight. I lost my shit.”
He stepped closer to Pope.
“I can’t let you take the blame for something I did. You’ve got too much to lose.”
I called softly, “J?”
He glanced at me, a quick smile that didn’t reach his eyes, then turned back to Pope and Shoupe.
“What are you doing?” Pope asked, disbelief thick in his voice.
“I’m telling the truth,” JJ said, low and steady. “For once in my goddamn life, I’m gonna tell the truth. I took his old man’s boat, too.”
“JJ, come on,” Pope pleaded.
A sick twist hit my gut—JJ shouldn’t be stepping in. Tears pricked my eyes, but I forced them back, needing to see what would happen next.
Kie moved closer, sensing it, but I didn’t look at her. My eyes stayed on the scene.
“He’s a good kid. You know where I’m from.” Shoupe nodded slowly.
“This was all me,” JJ finished quietly.
Shoupe shifted his gaze to Pope. “That’s the whole truth?”
Before Pope could answer, JJ cut in. “The whole truth. Swear to God.”
“I was asking Pope,” Shoupe shot back, frustration clear.
JJ and Pope exchanged a long look. Finally, Pope nodded.
“Yeah. That about covers it.”
The handcuffs fell from Pope’s wrists. Shoupe reached for JJ’s.
“Can I have a minute before you put those on?” JJ asked, voice steady but pleading. “I’m not going to run—I just need to see her before we go.”
Shoupe looked between us, then, hesitantly, nodded.
“One minute, Maybank.”
JJ stepped forward, pulling me into a hug. Tears slipped out despite myself. He held me tight, no words—just us.
Pulling back, he cupped my face gently.
“I’ll see you soon. That’s a real promise. And I will keep this one—unlike this morning, when I forced us to have breakfast together first.”
We laughed softly at the memory.
“JJ, let’s go,” Shoupe called.
JJ leaned down, pressing a lingering kiss to my forehead before being led away.
I watched the police car pull away, whispering to myself like a mantra,
He’s going to be okay. He’s going to be okay.
I struggled to sleep that night, so instead, I filled Bella in on everything.
“Look,” she said gently, “what JJ did was sweet—for his friends. But you’ve always had good gut feelings. Let’s just hope this is one rare wrong one.”
She smiled softly before heading out and coming back with my all-time favourite movie, Beauty and The Beast. I settled in, trying to quiet the storm of thoughts swirling in my head, praying JJ would be okay.
Eventually, exhaustion won, and I drifted off—dreaming of a certain blonde boy and roses.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: violence, fighting, mention of injuries
The gold wasn’t on The Royal Merchant, and the disappointment hit harder than I expected. Pope looked crushed, John B tried to spin hopeful theories, but I could see the stakes weighing on him. Kie decided we needed something “normal”—something that didn’t involve maps, treasure, or near-death situations. So we headed to the outdoor cinema.
Blankets and logs were spread under the stars. Kie and Pope were already teasing each other, while I followed JJ to our usual spot. He patted the blanket next to him.
“Here,” he said, grinning. I sat down, our legs brushing, and a warmth spread through me.
“So, tell me more about you,” he said, eyes glinting. “Australia. Italian roots. I feel like I’m missing half the stories.”
I laughed. “Oh, there are plenty. My nonna is ridiculous. One Christmas, she and nonno argued over… salami. My cousins started hiding it, and I spent the whole afternoon trying to keep the peace.”
JJ chuckled, shaking his head. “That’s insane… and kind of amazing. I’m jealous. Your life sounds full of chaos.”
I nudged his arm lightly. “You’d last five minutes before running back to your world.”
“Pfft,” he said, leaning a little closer. “I think I’d survive. And maybe get to be part of it.”
Heat warmed my cheeks. “Part of it, huh? Careful what you wish for.”
He smirked, fingers brushing mine. “Oh, I like challenges.”
I glanced around at the blankets and the stars. “Okay… maybe I should grab a drink with Kie before the movie starts.”
He groaned dramatically, leaning back on his elbows. “Fine. But don’t take too long. I don’t like feeling like you’re slipping away.”
I rolled my eyes, smiling. “Relax, JJ. I’m not slipping away.”
He let his hand linger near mine a moment longer before I stood, giving me a crooked grin. “Go on, then… but hurry back.”
I shot him a playful look and walked off toward Kie, feeling the faint heat of his gaze following me across the sand.
The line moved quickly, and I was laughing at another story about my cousins sneaking extra salami into Sunday sandwiches when a sharp voice cut through the air.
“Hey, Kie.”
I froze, spinning around. A tall, blonde guy leaned casually against the drink stand, grin sharp, eyes cold. My stomach twisted.
Kie stiffened beside me. “Oh… hi. Can we help you?”
He tilted his head, voice low, like this was a private threat. “Who’s your new friend?” His gaze flicked over me like I was something to inspect, then back to Kie.
“She’s fine,” Kie said firmly, her hand gripping mine.
He smirked. “Alright. Tell your boy we know what he did.”
My chest tightened. He wasn’t joking—and I knew exactly who “your boy” meant.
We hurried back to the blankets, hearts hammering. JJ and Pope were there, and as soon as JJ saw us approaching, his posture stiffened. Something had shifted.
“Oh… we ran into Rafe,” Kie said casually. “He said he knows what you did.”
JJ’s jaw tightened. His eyes, sharp and dangerous, landed on me briefly, then swept over the sand like he was calculating the next move. My pulse raced.
A few minutes later, JJ and Pope stood up.
“Where are you going?” I asked, narrowing my eyes.
JJ grinned, that mischievous glint back for a second as he leaned closer. “Gotta wring it out, Cupcake.” He winked.
“Together? What are you two gonna do—hold it for each other?” Kie scoffed.
They didn’t answer, just walked off.
The movie started, but I couldn’t focus. My stomach twisted.
“They’ve been gone too long, right?” I whispered to Kie.
She nodded. “Come on. Let’s go find them.”
We weaved through the crowd toward the back. My heart hammered. Something in my gut told me this wasn’t a bathroom break.
We rounded a corner, and the scene hit like a punch. Rafe Cameron and his crew had cornered JJ and Pope. Fists were flying, and JJ was taking hits he shouldn’t have. Pope was struggling too, shoved into the wall.
I didn’t hesitate. I jumped on the guy holding JJ, wrapping my arms around his shoulders and legs around his waist. He cursed and tried to shake me off, but I clung tighter. Being midsize definitely helped—I made it harder for him to get me off quickly.
JJ twisted, using the distraction to free himself. He shoved me gently behind him, stepping in front to shield me while still swinging at his attackers. His chest heaved, blood on his lip, knuckles split—but his eyes found mine, blazing with that mix of fury and something I couldn’t name.
Rafe laughed, mean and sharp. “That all you got, Maybank? Thought you’d be harder to break. Guess your new friend must’ve softened you up.”
JJ snapped. He lunged, tackling Rafe straight to the ground. Fists flew, wild and hard. Pope pulled one of the crew off him while Kie jumped into the fray, holding her own.
I stayed locked onto the guy I’d jumped, refusing to let go, until JJ ripped him off me with a wild shove.
Then Kie grabbed a lighter, holding it to the edge of the movie screen. Flames licked the fabric, casting a harsh glow.
“ENOUGH!” she yelled, voice cutting through the chaos.
Rafe and his crew scrambled back, faces lit by the firelight, before disappearing into the night.
I rushed to JJ. He pulled me into a rough, breathless hug, chest heaving. The fight, the flames, the chaos—it all faded in that instant.
He pulled back slightly, lips split, crooked grin in place. “Angel,” he rasped, voice low but cocky, “that was the hottest thing I’ve ever seen you do.”
I laughed, breathless, exhilarated. And just like that, he was JJ again.
A small smile tugged at my lips. “Well, someone’s got to keep you out of trouble.”
He brushed a hand down his bruised cheek, then looked at me with that familiar mischievous glint. “You sure know how to make an idiot feel better.”
I bit my lip, still holding back. “Let’s get you back to the chateau before you attract more trouble.”
He grabbed my hand, pressing a gentle kiss to the back of it. “You really are something, you know that?”
I glanced away, cheeks warming but my voice steady. “Don’t make me regret this.”
He laughed softly, the tension easing just enough to promise there was more to come. Together, we followed Kie and Pope, stepping into the cool night, the fight behind us and whatever was ahead feeling a little less scary—because we’d face it together, for now at least.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: none
The next day, after we tested whether the drone—or the RVO as Pope insisted on calling it—actually worked at the pier, I headed back home. We all agreed to meet up later or possibly the next day, depending on when we were all free again.
JJ and Pope were out doing deliveries to the kook side of the island, and John B and Kie had their own errands to run for most of the day. So I figured it was a good time to catch up on some school work—finally. I knew my parents wouldn’t be happy if I completely ignored it, especially after everything that happened this week.
They never expect top marks from Bella and me—but they do want us to try, to at least keep up and do our best to pass. Fair enough.
I settled into my aunty’s study, flipping open my textbooks and notebooks, determined to be productive. It took a bit of time to get into the right headspace, but eventually I started making progress.
By the time I finished studying, the sun was already sinking low. I needed air.
The beach was glowing — all gold and blue — and sure enough, the Pogues were out on the water. My eyes scanned the waves until they landed on him. JJ.
He rode a wave like it was nothing, golden curls dripping, grin bright enough to blind. I couldn’t look away. God, he made it look easy. Unfair, really.
I found a spot on the sand, half-reading, half-watching — okay, mostly watching.
“Why’s your nose always in a book, Angel?”
I jumped. JJ dropped down beside me, dripping wet and grinning like he’d just caught me in the act.
“You could try saying hi like a normal person,” I said, closing my book before it got soaked.
“That still doesn’t answer my question.” He leaned back on his hands, eyes glinting. “You should’ve been watching the waves. There was a pretty good-looking guy out there.”
“Hmm. Must’ve missed him.”
He gasped, clutching his chest. “Brutal.”
“Truth hurts, Maybank.”
He laughed — that low, easy sound that always got to me.
“Oh wait, maybe I did see him,” I said, pretending to think. “Looked kind of… average.”
JJ’s jaw dropped. “Average?”
“Painfully.”
He leaned in, voice dropping to a whisper. “Oh, darling… you haven’t seen my skills yet.”
Then he winked.
WINKED.
My face went up in flames. I buried it in my knees as he laughed.
“You’re the worst,” I muttered.
“You love it.”
He slung an arm around my shoulders, casual but sure, and suddenly my pulse was doing weird gymnastics.
“How’d the studying go?” he asked, voice softer now.
“Good,” I said, grateful for the subject change. “Lost track of time.”
“Glad you came.”
We sat there for a while — quiet, easy. I didn’t want to move.
Then JJ said, “Come to John B’s after this?”
I hesitated. “I promised my parents I’d be home by seven.”
He gave me the look. Puppy dog eyes. Unfair.
“I’ll take you home on my bike,” he said. “Promise.”
I made the mistake of meeting his eyes. Big mistake.
By the time we rolled up to John B’s, the sun had dipped low, smearing the sky in pinks and golds. The house was alive—lanterns strung across the porch, music drifting faintly, the Pogues spread over the sand like they owned it.
Kie perched on an overturned crate, Pope sprawled dramatically mid-argument, and John B tossed in commentary just to stir them up. It felt easy, familiar—like stepping into a world that didn’t expect anything of me.
Before I could decide where to sit, JJ tugged me toward the hammock. “Best seat in the house,” he declared, dropping into it so hard it rocked.
I raised a brow. “Or the fastest way to end up face-first in the sand.”
He patted the space beside him. “C’mon, Angel. Live a little.”
Rolling my eyes, I eased in. His arm stretched behind me instantly, brushing my shoulders like it belonged there. My pulse jumped, but I forced my voice steady.
“You know, for someone who thinks he’s fearless, you’re basically begging to flip us.”
“That’s just strategy,” he said. “You’ll cling to me if we fall.”
I scoffed. “More like I’d use you as a landing cushion.”
“Worth it,” he grinned.
The hammock rocked lazily, his shoulder warm against mine. Across the sand, Pope’s voice rose sharp and fast while Kie rolled her eyes every other word.
“You ever notice,” JJ murmured, “how Pope argues like a professor and Kie argues like she’s already grading him?”
I bit back a laugh. “You’re just mad she’d destroy you.”
“Babe, I don’t debate,” he said, smug. “I win by charm.”
“Charm,” I repeated. “Is that what you call it?”
His grin softened. “Worked on you, didn’t it?”
Heat crept up my neck. “You wish.”
“Nah. Don’t wish. You’re still here. That’s fact.”
Something fluttered in my chest, but before I could answer, Pope called, “JJ, back me up—tell them I’m right about the gold!”
Without looking up, JJ yelled back, “You’re not, but thanks for playing.”
Laughter rippled through the group, but he kept watching me like my reaction mattered more than the argument. I tried not to notice. Tried.
For a while it was easy—just warmth, voices, the sway of the hammock. Then I checked my watch. 6:55.
Dad’s voice echoed: Don’t be late, Ange.
I shifted, nudging JJ. “Hey. It’s almost seven. You promised you’d get me home.”
He waved a hand. “It’s not even dark yet. Stay a little longer.”
“JJ,” I said quietly, “I told them seven. I can’t just—”
He laughed softly. “Angel, come on. One night where you don’t worry so much.”
“It’s not about worrying,” I said. “It’s about trust.”
His smile thinned. “You’re such a damn adult sometimes,” he muttered, raking a hand through his hair. “Can’t you just let it go for once?”
It was meant to be light—but it landed heavy. “It’s not that simple.”
Frustration flickered. Then sharper, unfiltered: “You’re such a goody two-shoes, Angel.”
The words hit like a slap. My chest clenched, heat rising to my face. I pushed up from the hammock. “Right. Guess that’s my cue.”
“Ange—”
But I was already walking, the sound of the waves swallowing whatever he tried to say.
Behind me, the laughter carried on, but the air felt colder—like I’d left something behind I wasn’t sure I could get back.
JJ’s POV
She was gone before I even knew what to say. One second she was right there, warm and close; the next—just sand in her footsteps, shoulders stiff with anger. At me.
I scrubbed a hand over my face. Goody two-shoes. I hadn’t meant it like that. It just slipped. But the way her eyes dropped, like I’d broken something good—yeah, that stung.
“Nice going, Maybank,” Pope muttered. “Real smooth.”
“Shut up, Pope,” I said automatically, eyes on the curve of the beach where she’d disappeared.
John B whistled. “Man, most guys try to get girls to stay. You chase ’em off.”
Even Kie smirked, but it didn’t feel funny. Not tonight.
I leaned forward, elbows on my knees. “She just leaves. Like it’s nothing. Who does that?”
Kie’s voice cut through, sharp but not unkind. “Someone who actually cares what her parents think. She’s not like us, JJ.”
“Yeah, I get that, but—”
“No, you don’t.” She stepped closer. “You push because that’s how you live. But she won’t break her word just to make you happy. That’s not who she is.”
Her words settled like stones in my stomach.
“She’s not ditching you,” Kie added, softer. “She’s showing you she can be trusted. That doesn’t mean she doesn’t want to be here. Doesn’t mean she doesn’t want you.”
My heartbeat stuttered.
“Go get her,” Kie finished. “Don’t let her think you don’t care enough to try.”
And suddenly it clicked. She wasn’t leaving because she didn’t want to be here. She was leaving because she kept her word.
And I’d made fun of that.
“Shit.” I shot up, the hammock swinging wildly behind me.
“Where you going?” John B called.
“To fix it.” I was already running to my bike.
I saw her striding down the street, book clutched like armour, shoulders stiff, head down. My gut twisted. She’s walking alone, Bella isn’t with her, and for once, I can’t just let her handle it herself.
“Kie’s right,” I muttered under my breath. “I promised.”
That stupid book, I thought, jaw tightening. Always with her, like it could shield her from the world. And here I am, chasing after her because I can’t stand the thought of something happening to her. Because I care too damn much.
The engine roared beneath me as I caught up to her. “Angel!” I shouted, voice cracking slightly.
She froze, glancing back with that exasperated look she always gives me — half irritation, half amusement. “JJ…,” she said, calm but guarded.
“Get on!” I barked, weaving between the dim streetlights. “I made a promise! You are not walking alone tonight!”
She rolled her eyes, but didn’t pick up her pace. “I can walk, JJ,” she shot back, arms tightening around her book.
“No. No walking. Not tonight. Not with these streets dark. Not with you holding that stupid book like it’s a life raft!” My chest tightened at the sight of her so cautious, so careful, and I wasn’t even sure if I could breathe.
Her lips twitched at the nickname, fighting back a smile. “It’s a good book, thank you very much. And I’m not a kid—”
“I don’t care!” I cut in, exasperated, heart hammering. “I promised. Now get on the damn bike!”
She hesitated, staring at me like she was weighing every reason she shouldn’t. Then, with a dramatic sigh, she swung her leg over. “Fine. Only because I trust you won’t crash.”
Relief hit me like a punch, and I grinned. “Deal. Hold on tight.”
Her hand brushed mine as she settled in. Instinctively, I tucked a damp strand of hair behind her ear. She huffed teasingly, “You’re really intense sometimes, you know that?”
“Intense? Me?” I smirked. “I’m just… keeping my promise. You’re worth it.”
She rolled her eyes, but I caught the tiniest smile. Her trust hit me harder than I expected, and for once, the tension between us didn’t feel like a battle — it felt like we were almost in sync.
The bike roared beneath us, wind biting at our faces. Her arms tightened around my waist, and my chest twisted in ways I didn’t want to name.
“You’re dramatic, you know that?” she said over the engine.
“Dramatic?” I yelled back, grinning. “That’s rich coming from the girl who stormed off like she was leading a rebellion.”
Her laugh, muffled against my back, made something ache inside me. Something I didn’t want to think about.
“You could’ve let me walk,” she said after a beat, softer.
“Nope. Not happening,” I shot back. “You walking alone? I’d never forgive myself.”
She pressed closer, teasing, “I’m not exactly helpless, you know.”
“Oh, I know,” I smirked, leaning slightly into the turn. “You could take me out if you wanted. But that’s not the point, Angel.”
Her arms tightened again. That tiny shift, that trust — it made my chest swell with this chaotic mix of relief and fear. I didn’t know what I’d do if she stayed, if she left, if she saw how much I cared.
“What’s the point then?” she asked, quiet now, voice soft against the wind.
I swallowed, staring down the moonlit street. “That I can’t stand the thought of something happening to you. Not you.”
Her head pressed just enough against my back that I couldn’t tell if it was to hide her reaction or because she trusted me. And for once, I wanted to hold onto that trust more than I wanted to argue, more than I wanted to tease.
I grinned, filling the silence with what I do best — banter. “Besides, if I let you walk, who’d keep my ego in check when I brag about being the best driver on the island?”
Her laughter floated over the engine. “Best driver? You’re the definition of reckless.”
“Reckless?” I said, grinning. “Minor details.”
Her laugh softened into something warmer, something that lingered against my back. And I felt it — the tension, the pull, the nearly-there closeness that made everything else fade away for just a few heartbeats.
Ange’s POV:
The bike slowed as we reached the familiar driveway, gravel crunching beneath the tires. JJ killed the engine, and the sudden quiet left only the hum of cicadas in the trees.
I hesitated before climbing off, the warmth of the ride fading too quickly in the night air. JJ swung a leg over, restless as always, like he wasn’t sure whether to stay or bolt.
“Made it,” he said, a little too casual. “Promise kept.”
I gave him a small smile. “Thanks for… you know. Not letting me walk.”
“Like that was ever an option,” he replied, stuffing his hands in his pockets. For once, his grin didn’t quite reach his eyes.
The porch light flicked on, and Bella peeked around the doorway, silhouetted against the glow. “Finally,” she whispered, smirking like she knew exactly what had happened.
JJ glanced at her, then back at me. “Guess that’s my cue.”
I nodded, but didn’t move right away. Neither did he. For a moment, we just stood there—too much left unsaid, too much I wasn’t sure how to ask.
Finally, he rubbed the back of his neck and forced a grin. “See you tomorrow, Angel.”
The nickname, soft this time, sank into me before I could reply. I just nodded and slipped toward the porch, Bella’s gaze following me the whole way.
Once inside, I sank onto the couch beside her, resting my head lightly on her shoulder. She didn’t miss a beat. “You’re fine,” she whispered, holding up the book in my hands like it was proof of my bravery. “I told Papa you went out for ice cream with Kie. You’re safe.”
I let out a long breath. “Thanks,” I muttered, guilt curling in my chest.
“You owe me for not tattling,” she teased, then softened. “But seriously… you okay? You look… torn.”
I stared down at the book, JJ’s voice still echoing in my head—the frustration, the plea, the way he’d fought to keep his promise. “I just… I don’t know what he wants,” I admitted quietly. “And I don’t know what I’m supposed to do with how I feel about it.”
Bella’s grin was small, mischievous but knowing. “You’ll figure it out, Ange. Just… don’t let it twist you into someone you’re not. And make sure he deserves the heart you give him.”
I nodded, still unsure if the knot in my chest had loosened. Later, lying in bed, I stared at the ceiling long after the house had gone quiet. JJ’s grin, his voice, his touch—it all looped through my mind like a song I couldn’t turn off. Tomorrow would bring something new. Maybe answers. Maybe more confusion. And yet… part of me already couldn’t wait to see him again.
JJ’s POV:
I should’ve just taken off when Ange disappeared inside, still holding that damn book. But my hands stayed on the handlebars, eyes glued to the front door like a total idiot. She didn’t come back out. Of course she didn’t.
I scrubbed a hand over my face. What the hell are you doing, Maybank?
She looked so careful, like even walking through that door late might break something. And I hated it. Hated how much I wanted to fix it for her—storm inside, tell her dad she’d been with me, swear I’d never let anything happen to her. But that’s not my life. Not her house. Not how it works.
I forced the grin back on, even if no one was around to see it. “Sweet dreams, Angel,” I muttered, like a total idiot talking to the night, before kicking the bike into gear and tearing down the street.
Speed didn’t matter. Sleep wouldn’t come easy tonight, not with her stuck in my head like that.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: none
The Wreck’s battered speakers crackled to life, blasting a bright, fast song.
Bella squealed, practically leaping to her feet. “Oh my god, this is my jam!” She grabbed Kie’s wrist. “Come on, you’re dancing with me.”
Kie groaned but didn’t fight her, laughing as Bella dragged her toward the makeshift dance floor.
“You too, Ange!” Bella shouted over her shoulder.
I sank lower in my chair. “Absolutely not.”
“Yes!” Bella and Kie yelled in unison.
“No,” I said firmly. “Not happening.”
“Sounds like a challenge,” JJ drawled.
Oh no.
That tone never meant anything good.
I froze as he rose from his chair, his smirk firmly in place as he prowled toward me, slow and deliberate—like a predator who already knew the outcome.
“Relax, Ange,” he said, stretching lazily. “I’m just… walking over here.”
“You’re circling, Maybank” I accused, narrowing my eyes. “Like a shark.”
JJ pressed a hand to his chest. “Wow. Hurtful. Sharks don’t circle. They… test the water.”
“You pounce,” I corrected flatly.
His grin sharpened. “Only when I know I’m gonna win.”
My stomach flipped, but I forced myself to hold his gaze. “You’re wasting your time. The answer is no.”
“Didn’t even ask the question yet,” he said, leaning casually on the back of my chair.
“Fine. Ask it.”
“Dance with me.”
“No.”
JJ didn’t falter—not even a little.
“Didn’t even hesitate,” he said, shaking his head like I was the unreasonable one.
“Third time’s the charm, Ange.”
“It’s still not happening,” I snapped, even though the way he said my name—shortened, familiar—made something ache in my chest.
JJ just smirked, confidence maddeningly intact as he sauntered away.
But the flutter in my chest didn’t fade as
A few minutes later, when I thought I was safe, JJ crouched suddenly at my side, way too close, his blue eyes locking on mine.
“C’mon, Ange,” he coaxed, voice smooth, infuriatingly self-assured. “One song. Worst case, you step on my foot, and we go down in a blaze of glory. You’ll make history.”
My lips twitched despite myself. Ugh. Why did he have to make me want to laugh?
“Still no,” I said firmly, though it sounded weaker than I’d intended.
JJ caught it—of course he did. His grin widened, wolfish.
“You’re killing me here.”
He clutched his heart dramatically again, then leaned in, his breath warm against my ear.
“Third time,” he murmured with a grin, “is gonna be the charm.”
I rolled my eyes, fighting back a laugh. “Dream on.”
As he walked away, my pulse was still unsteady, and I hated that he knew it.
I was still trying to calm down when JJ moved.
One second he was across the room, the next he was standing over me, hand extended like a dare.
His smirk was gone now, replaced by something softer—but not hesitant. Never hesitant.
“One song,” he said, low and steady. “Then you can go back to hiding in the corner.”
His tone wasn’t teasing anymore. It was warm, careful… but still so damn confident.
Like he already knew my answer.
I hesitated, my walls screaming for me to stay put.
We weren’t okay yet.
He’d hurt me.
Dancing with him would mean letting him back in—just a little.
But JJ’s thumb brushed my knuckles, slow and deliberate, and the fight in me wavered.
I wanted this.
I wanted him.
And for one song, maybe that could be enough.
“There’s my Angel,” he said softly, reverent, and devastating.
The world tilted. My breath caught in my throat.
“JJ…” I whispered, completely thrown.
He just grinned, spinning me clumsily as Bella and Kie whooped from across the room.
“Relax,” he said, his voice lighter now, playful again. “We’ll just be bad together.”
Despite myself, I laughed—breathless and a little dizzy.
And for the first time in days, I let myself believe that maybe—just maybe—JJ and I weren’t completely broken after all.
The night was winding down at the wreck. The music had gone soft, people were drifting off in twos and threes, and the fire was just glowing embers now. Everyone was laughing and talking, but all I could focus on was Ange.
She wasn’t saying a word, just… doing stuff. A soft yawn she tried to hide, stretching her arms like she’d been sitting too long, shifting from one foot to the other like she wanted to leave but didn’t wanna be the one to say it.
I didn’t know when I’d started picking up on her little tells, but now I couldn’t stop noticing them. And I didn’t hate it.
“Hey,” I said, pushing off the railing. “It’s late. I’ll walk you two home. No arguments.”
Bella lit up instantly, her grin way too smug. “Perfect! That way, Ange can’t get all bossy and drag us the long way.”
Ange just gave a small shrug, too wiped out to fight, though there was a ghost of a smile on her face like she might’ve argued if she had the energy.
We started down the sandy path, Bella chattering like she’d downed three Red Bulls. “Ari’s been extra funny lately,” she said, practically bouncing. “She told Nonno his hat was ‘ugly’ and then flushed it. He said he wasn’t mad, but I swear he was plotting revenge.”
Ange’s quiet laugh slipped out, soft and low, and my chest did this weird tight thing I ignored.
“Then a week ago,” Bella went on, “she stole all the remotes and hid them in her toy box. Swore it was Nonno’s fault.”
“Classic Ari,” Ange murmured, shaking her head, the hint of a smile still there.
“Wait—is that a cat?” Bella suddenly gasped, bolting forward like her life depended on it. “Oh my god, it’s so fluffy!”
Bella’s voice floated back to us as she baby-talked to the cat. “Don’t wait up! I’ll catch up in a minute!”
And just like that, she was gone, crouching in the distance and baby-talking to a street cat.
Ange sighed beside me, soft but fond. “She’s hopeless.”
“Yeah,” I muttered, and then it hit me like a sucker punch.
We were alone.
Finally.
My palms went slick, my brain screaming, Don’t blow this, Maybank.
“So, uh… listen.” My voice cracked, which was awesome. I cleared my throat and tried again. “About the other day… I was a total jackass.”
Ange tensed immediately. “JJ—”
“No, let me finish,” I cut her off, pointing at her like the words might vanish if I didn’t pin them down.
She crossed her arms, giving me that skeptical Ange look, but stayed quiet.
“I run my mouth. It’s what I do,” I said, the words rough. “Usually, it’s just… noise. Harmless. But this time, it wasn’t. I said some crap I didn’t mean. And I hate that.”
Her expression softened a fraction, but she didn’t interrupt.
“You matter to me, Ange,” I admitted, the words burning in my throat. I forced a crooked laugh to keep from sounding like a total sap. “Which is terrifying, by the way. But I don’t wanna screw this up. So yeah.” I dragged a hand through my hair, frustrated. “I’m sorry. Like, a real sorry. Not my usual half-assed one.”
For a beat, there was only the sound of Bella cooing at the cat in the distance. My heart was pounding so hard I swore Ange could hear it.
Then she let out the tiniest laugh, soft and sweet. “Hmm… that was like a three,” she said gently, as if she was rating it.
“Three? Man, you’re tough,” I said, my lips twitching into a grin I couldn’t fight.
And then—screw it.
I reached for her hand. She went stiff at first, like she wasn’t sure she could trust this. My stomach dropped—
But then, slowly, her fingers curled around mine. It wasn’t much. Hesitant. Fragile. But it was real.
The rush that went through me was insane. My hand fit around hers like it was supposed to be there, and I had to bite back a laugh of pure relief. “See? Look at that. Progress.”
A soft, reluctant laugh escaped her. “Baby steps, JJ.”
“Baby steps,” I echoed, my grin stretching wider.
Up ahead, Bella stood with the cat like she was about to adopt it. “I’m just gonna check if this little guy’s okay!” she called, already disappearing down a side street.
I shook my head, amused. “Figures.”
We walked in silence for a while, just the crunch of sand under our shoes, her hand warm in mine. I didn’t want it to end.
And then Ange’s house came into view—and standing on the porch was him.
Her dad. Arms crossed. Watching us.
Like some mob boss out of The Godfather.
“Oh, perfect,” I muttered under my breath. “This is how I die.”
Ange nudged me with her elbow. “He’s not that scary.”
“You say that ’cause you’re his favourite,” I whispered back, even though my pulse was losing its mind.
Every bone in my body said to bolt. But Ange’s hand had been in mine just a second ago, and that was enough to make me stay put.”
I wanted to keep holding her hand, but I forced myself to let go before we reached the steps—not because I didn’t want to, but because I needed him to see I respected her. Respected them.
My stomach twisted as I squared my shoulders. Come on, Maybank. Don’t chicken out now.
“Evening, sir,” I said, stepping forward. My voice almost cracked, but I powered through. “I’m JJ.”
His sharp eyes scanned me like he could see every bad thing I’d ever done. Finally, he extended his hand. “Vincenzo. Call me Vince. Thank you for walking my girls home.”
“Uh… yeah. Anytime,” I said, gripping his hand and meeting his gaze like my life depended on it.
“Good grip,” he noted, giving a small approving nod.
“Thanks. Comes in handy,” I said automatically—
And caught Ange giving me a don’t even start side-eye that nearly made me laugh.
“Night, JJ,” she said softly, her voice so gentle it almost made me stay.
I hesitated, then gave in to instinct. “Night, Angel.”
Her breath hitched—just barely—but she didn’t correct me.
As I turned to leave, Vince’s words stuck with me. Thank you for walking my girls home.
Like I’d done something good for once. Like he trusted me.
Me. JJ Maybank.
I didn’t know what to do with that feeling, so I just held on to it and made myself a quiet promise:
Papa’s hand came to rest on my shoulder as JJ disappeared down the street.
“You’ve had a lot on your plate lately, stellina,” he said quietly. “I can see it.”
I swallowed, unsure what to say.
“He looks like a nice kid,” Papa admitted, his tone even, “but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful.” His gaze was steady, sharp in a way only a father’s could be. “You’re strong, Ange… but even strong people need to protect their hearts.”
My chest tightened, and I nodded. “I know, Papa.”
He studied me for another moment before giving my shoulder a squeeze. “Come inside. It’s late.”
As I followed him in, my thoughts drifted back to JJ’s hand in mine and how hard it had been to let go.
From behind me, Bella’s voice piped up, far too innocent to be believable.
“And to think you didn’t even like him when you met him,” she said with a sly grin.
“Bella!” I hissed, glaring as she smirked and darted past me toward the stairs.
Her giggles echoed through the house, leaving me with burning cheeks and a heart I wasn’t ready to admit was racing.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: minor swearing, mentions of hospital and illness
The Wreck was alive with noise and light, the smell of fried calamari and salt clinging to the humid night air.
Bella and I sat tucked away in a corner booth, too exhausted to talk, our plates littered with crumbs and half-eaten fries. My body ached from a full day of searching—every familiar Pogues hangout, every stretch of beach, even the docks. Nothing.
“This was supposed to be fun,” Bella groaned, slumping so far down her chair she was practically under the table.
“Instead, it’s like a scavenger hunt where the prize is disappointment.”
I smirked faintly, nudging her with my foot.
“At least the garlic knots didn’t disappoint.”
“True,” she said, perking up just enough to grin. “Garlic knots never let you down.”
I laughed softly, though it didn’t quite reach my chest. I missed my friends.
I missed JJ—though I wasn’t ready to forgive him yet for that stupid comment before everything went sideways.
The door creaked open, and a familiar voice rang out over the noise.
“Ange? Bella?!”
My head snapped up so fast my neck twinged.
Kie stood frozen in the doorway, eyes wide like she’d seen ghosts.
“Oh my god!” she shouted, barreling toward us. “You’re here! You’re actually here!”
Before I could even stand, John B was right behind her, weaving between tables. His face broke into a huge, relieved grin before he pulled me into a solid, grounding hug—not crushing, but firm enough to say I was scared for you.
“We thought something happened to you,” he said, his voice low but full of emotion.
“I’m okay,” I managed, hugging him back just as tightly. “We’re okay.”
He pulled back, scanning my face like he needed proof.
“You just… vanished. We had no idea where you were.”
“I know,” I said, guilt churning in my stomach. “I’m sorry.”
Kie wrapped both me and Bella into a fierce hug next, her voice shaking just a little.
“You scared the crap out of us. I kept imagining—god, like a hundred different worst-case scenarios.”
Bella laughed nervously. “Same. And with no phones, we couldn’t even check in.”
Pope appeared behind them, throwing his arms wide.
“Finally! I was about to plaster your faces on missing posters.”
He hugged Bella quickly, then gave me a brief but solid squeeze.
“Don’t vanish on us again, seriously.”
“I won’t,” I promised, giving him a small, grateful smile.
And then my eyes landed on JJ.
He hadn’t moved from where he stood at the edge of the group, hands shoved deep into his pockets. His shoulders were tense, jaw working like he was holding something back.
No smirk. No witty remark. Just JJ, stripped down to raw worry.
“Hey,” I said softly.
That broke something in him. JJ crossed the space between us in three long strides.
“Four days, Ange.” His voice was low, tight, nothing like his usual cocky drawl.
“You don’t just disappear like that.”
“I didn’t mean to—” I started, but he cut me off, sharp and unsteady.
“You scared the shit out of me.”
His hand twitched like he wanted to reach for me, but he raked it through his messy blond hair instead. “Out of all of us.”
Kie shot him a warning look, ready to jump in, but JJ’s focus never left me.
“What happened?” he asked, quieter now, but no less intense.
I swallowed hard, suddenly aware of everyone waiting for an explanation.
“My baby cousin, Nico—he got really sick. Jess and Matt were at the hospital for days, my parents were helping them… and someone had to stay home with Ari and Bella. It was chaos.”
I exhaled shakily. “I didn’t have time to think, let alone sneak away to find you guys.”
Kie’s face softened immediately. “Is Nico okay now?”
Relief loosened my chest just a little.
“Yeah. He’s home now, still on meds, but the doctors think he’ll make a full recovery.”
“Thank god,” John B said, his shoulders finally relaxing. “You must’ve been so stressed.”
“You have no idea,” I said with a humorless laugh. “I’m never changing another diaper again.”
That broke the tension, earning a round of laughter.
Even Pope chuckled. “Wait, you were the responsible one for four days?!”
He clutched his chest dramatically. “World’s officially ending.”
“Shut up,” I said, rolling my eyes, but my smile this time was real.
Kie shook her head, grinning. “You definitely owe us for the stress you caused.”
JJ muttered under his breath, almost too quiet for anyone else to hear, “Just glad you’re back.”
When I looked at him, his expression had softened—relief shining through the cracks.
He started to reach for my hand, fingers brushing mine, but then he hesitated.
Pulled back.
Testing the waters.
“Me too,” I whispered.
Bella, sitting right beside me, didn’t miss a thing.
As JJ turned away, she nudged me under the table, smirking like a cat who’d caught a mouse.
I shot her a sharp glare, silently begging her not to say a word.
She just raised her eyebrows innocently, but the smug little smile stayed glued to her face.
And for the first time in days, surrounded by my friends, the world didn’t feel quite so heavy.
Our table looked like a crime scene—empty baskets, napkins everywhere, and the kind of laughter that made your stomach hurt.
Pope leaned back in his chair, gesturing wildly.
“Four hundred million dollars, and you guys are acting like we wouldn’t need an actual plan. I’m telling you, I’d disappear to a private island, easy.”
JJ snorted, draping himself lazily across his chair.
“Correction—you and me would disappear to a private island. No way you’re ditching me to go full hermit.”
Kie rolled her eyes. “And what exactly would you do with an island, JJ? Fish all day and drink cheap beer? That’s your big dream?”
JJ smirked. “Better than Pope’s boring plan.”
Then his gaze slid to me—too quick to be casual, too sharp to ignore.
“And Ange here? She’d need her own wing of the island just for books.” His smirk deepened. “Maybe a secret stash for cannoli.”
Bella burst out laughing. “Oh my god, yes! Ange would go broke in a week just hunting down the best bakeries.”
“Excuse me?” I gasped, clutching my chest in mock offence.
“Come on,” Bella teased, bumping my shoulder. “You literally worship food. And books. You’re the only person I know who can describe a plate of pasta like it’s some priceless artifact.”
“Because it is priceless!” I shot back, grinning. “Food is art. Books are sacred. At least I’d spend my treasure on things that matter, instead of…” My eyes slid pointedly toward JJ. “Bail money.”
The table erupted in laughter, Pope practically choking on his drink.
JJ clutched his heart like I’d personally stabbed him.
“Ouch. Low blow, Ange. Real low.”
“You forgot the espresso bar,” I added smugly.
JJ groaned. “Obviously. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, Michelin-star chefs, and a rolling ladder for your precious novels.”
There was sharpness in his smirk, but underneath… something softer, almost vulnerable.
For a moment, it felt like old times—light, easy, safe.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: Mentions of hospital and illness
JJ’s POV
“How much was it again?” I asked, leaning back on the dock rail, trying to sound casual. My voice betrayed none of the way I’d been replaying the number in my head all day.
“Four. Hundred. Million.” Pope enunciated each word like scripture, eyes gleaming in the fading sunlight.
Four hundred million dollars. Enough to change everything—for all of us.
John B’s dad really might’ve found the Merchant. And if that was true… there was no way we could just walk away.
“I’m assuming it’ll be split evenly,” I said, glancing around at the group. Kie stretched out beside Pope, John B paced a few feet away, already three steps ahead in his mind. But then I noticed the gap. The one that shouldn’t be there.
“Has anybody spoken to Ange lately?” I blurted.
All three heads snapped toward me. Instantly, I regretted how sharp it sounded.
John B raised a brow, smirking just a little. “Why? Missing her already?”
Heat crept up my neck. “Nah, man, just… she hasn’t been around, that’s all.” I forced a shrug, pretending to study the chipped wood beneath my boots. “Weird.”
Pope tilted his head, like he was sizing me up. “You’ve been counting the days, huh?”
I shot him a glare. “No. Shut up.”
(Okay, yes. I had been counting the days. Four, to be exact. But no way I was admitting that out loud.)
Kie crossed her arms, thankfully steering the conversation back to more serious territory. “Nah, I haven’t talked to her either. With the towers still busted, there’s no way to reach her. Maybe she’s just laying low.”
“Laying low for four days?” My voice came out sharper than I meant. I felt their eyes on me again.
Kie softened. “Look, if she doesn’t come around soon, we’ll go check on her. Together.”
I nodded quickly before anyone could notice the little knot loosening in my chest. “Yeah. Cool. I’ll, uh… come with you when you do.”
Inside, though? I was already past that point. It wasn’t like Ange to just… vanish.
Something had happened to her that night at John B’s house—I knew it. I’d seen her face when those guys broke in. The way she froze. I’d never seen her like that before. And I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
And then there was the other thing gnawing at me: Australia.
She didn’t live here. Eventually, she was going to go back. I had no idea when.
What happens if she leaves without saying goodbye?
What if she disappeared for good—not just for a few days, but forever?
The thought twisted my stomach in ways I couldn’t cover with a smartass remark.
Ange’s POV
I stared at the pile of untouched schoolbooks on Aunt Jess’s desk, their spines still perfectly straight.
I hadn’t even cracked one open since we got here. Honestly, I couldn’t care less. School felt like the least important thing in the world right now.
The baby—that’s what mattered.
Everything had been chaos since Nico got sick. Aunt Jess and Uncle Matt had been camped out at the hospital with him for days, and my parents had gone with them, running errands and bringing back whatever they needed. That left me holding down the fort—watching Ari, Bella, and the house while everyone else focused on the baby.
It was… exhausting.
No breaks, no help, just me keeping everyone fed, clean, and calm while silently hoping things would get better.
Last night, they finally came home. Nico was doing a little better, still on antibiotics and needing nurse visits, but at least he wasn’t in the hospital anymore. The whole house felt fragile though, like one wrong move could tip us right back into chaos.
For the first time in days, I could actually breathe.
But the Pogues…
It’d been four whole days since I’d last seen them, since the break-in at John B’s.
I hadn’t been avoiding them—not on purpose. With phone lines still down on this side of the island, there was no way to reach out, and I couldn’t exactly ditch my family when they needed me.
Still, it felt like forever.
And I missed them.
I missed him.
JJ.
The thought of him was a confusing knot in my chest.
He’d hurt me last week, that stupid throwaway comment about me leaving and forgetting them, still lodged in my heart like a splinter. And yet, even after that, part of me wanted to see him. To see all of them. But mostly him.
I hated that he had that power over me.
Today, though? Today I was going to fix that.
I was going to find my friends, even if it meant combing the entire island.
“Angie?”
The tiny voice pulled me from my thoughts.
Ari stood in the doorway, hair sticking up in every direction, clutching her stuffed bunny. She rubbed her eyes and stumbled toward me, still half-asleep.
“Morning, piccolina (little one),” I said softly, scooping her up into my arms. “You sleep okay?”
She shook her head dramatically, lower lip sticking out in a pout. “ Angie, go?”
My chest squeezed.
“No, I didn’t leave. I was right here in the house the whole time.”
“Promise?” Her wide brown eyes searched mine.
“Promise,” I said, pressing a kiss to her cheek. “You’ve got Mummy, Daddy, Zia Bianca, Zio Vince, and now me and Bella, remember? You’re surrounded by love.”
She giggled at the list, but the sound was muffled as she buried her face in my shoulder.
I held her close, savouring the moment. Ari was my safe place. Even when everything else was falling apart, she reminded me why I had to stay strong.
By the time I tucked her into her high chair and turned to make breakfast, the house was finally beginning to stir. That’s when Bella wandered in, still in her pyjamas, holding her phone like it was a lifeline.
“Morning,” she mumbled, collapsing into a chair.
I arched a brow. “Morning? It’s nearly ten, Bells.”
“Time is fake,” she grumbled, scrolling through her phone. “Still no service. Again.”
“You checking for texts or just mindlessly scrolling through old photos?” I asked, setting a plate of toast in front of Ari.
“Both,” Bella admitted with a dramatic sigh. “It’s sad when the highlight of my morning is looking at pictures of Rocky, back home.”
“Welcome to vacation on an island with hurricane damage.” My voice was dry, but it earned me a tiny smile from her.
Bella’s gaze drifted to me as I poured Ari some juice. “You okay? You’ve been kinda… I don’t know. Quiet. Even for you.”
I hesitated, the words catching in my throat.
Part of me wanted to brush it off, but Bella knew me too well.
“I just…” I set the juice carton down and leaned against the counter. “I miss my friends. It’s been days, and I don’t know if they’re okay. The last time I saw them was… intense.”
Bella tilted her head. “You mean JJ?”
Heat rushed to my face.
“I meant all of them,” I said a little too quickly, focusing very hard on Ari’s toast.
Bella smirked but didn’t push. Classic little sister move.
“Well,” she said, stretching her arms over her head, “why don’t we just go find them?”
I blinked at her. “What, like… just show up at the Chateau?”
“Why not? Phones are down, we’ve been trapped here for days, and you’ve been acting like someone stole your favourite book. Let’s get out of here. Worst case, we don’t find them. Best case, we do—and you get to stop pacing the house like a caged animal.”
“Bella,” I groaned, but I couldn’t hide my smile. She wasn’t wrong.
Bella nodded toward the ceiling where the low murmur of voices and footsteps filtered down from upstairs.
“Everyone’s home now. Ari’s got four adults here to spoil her rotten, and Nico’s safe. You and I are officially free.”
I thought about JJ. About all of them.
About how much I missed feeling like part of the group.
“Okay,” I said finally, my heart racing just a little. “Let’s go.”
Bella grinned, already grabbing her shoes.
And for the first time in days, I felt like maybe—just maybe—things were about to get better.
The sun was already high when Bella and I followed the dirt path toward the Chateau. The air was thick with salt and heat, clinging to my skin as we walked.
“So,” Bella said, squinting against the glare, “where would a group of Pogues be hiding? Besides wherever they’re causing trouble.”
“Step one: the Chateau,” I said. “Step two: docks. Step three: bribe locals with cannoli.”
Bella laughed. “That might actually work.”
The Chateau, however, was empty — no surfboards, no music, no chaos. Just silence.
“Strike one,” Bella announced dramatically.
“They’re probably just out,” I said, though even I didn’t sound convinced.
She shot me a look. “You sure this isn’t really about one certain blond Pogue?”
Heat crept up my neck. “I’m looking for all of them.”
“Mhm,” she hummed, grinning.
The next few stops were no better — the docks, the marina, even the stretch of beach Kie liked. Empty, every time.
“Strike three,” Bella sighed.
By late afternoon, my legs ached and my patience wore thin. “Maybe they went out of town,” she offered.
“No,” I said too quickly. I forced my tone softer. “They wouldn’t leave without saying something.”
“Especially not JJ,” she said, not teasing this time.
I didn’t answer. The memory of his voice from that night — sharp, scared, saying my name — replayed like a loop I couldn’t break.
“You’re doing that thing again,” Bella murmured.
“What thing?”
“The brooding. Very mysterious, very tragic heroine.”
A laugh slipped out before I could stop it. “Relax. I’m just tired.”
“Uh-huh.”
By the time The Wreck came into view, the sky was streaked pink and gold, and the smell of fried seafood had my stomach growling.
“Strike four,” Bella sighed, “and dinner.”
Kie’s dad was outside wiping down tables. His face softened when he saw us. “Angela, Bella — good to see you girls. You always brighten this place up.”
“Hi, Mr. Carrera,” Bella said.
He smiled. “You two look like you’ve been running all over the island. Go eat something. You’re always welcome here — you two, at least.”
Bella snorted. I just smiled, though my heart felt heavy. We stepped inside, and I couldn’t shake the quiet ache that had followed me all day — the one that sounded a lot like JJ.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: baby sickness, mentions of hospital, violence, nightmare
“I’m just saying, man, I don’t get why you don’t at least try with Kiara. She’s clearly into you,” I said, leaning back against the ripped seat of the Twinkie as we rattled down the road toward Scooter’s place.
John B gave me a sidelong glance. “Kiara?”
“Yeah, bro.” I pitched my voice higher, mocking Kie in a way that made Pope snicker from the front seat. “‘Oh, John B, you’re so mysterious. Oh, John B, please let me braid your tragic surfer boy hair.’”
John B rolled his eyes, but a small smirk tugged at his lips. “That’s what she sounds like to you?”
“Exactly like that.” I grinned, wagging my eyebrows. “Don’t act like you haven’t noticed. Girl’s throwing signals like it’s a full-on light show.”
“Oh yeah?” John B shot back, glancing at me with his own smirk. “Kinda like how you don’t notice Ange?”
My brain short-circuited for half a second.
“Uh, what?” I said, a little too quickly.
John B raised a brow, all casual like he hadn’t just dropped a bomb on me. “Come on, man. It’s obvious she likes you. And I know you’ve got some feelings for her.”
I forced a laugh, leaning forward to grab the compass sitting between us like it was suddenly the most interesting thing in the world.
“Not a chance, bro. We’re just friends.”
We have to be just friends.
Because if I admitted that maybe, possibly, there was something there… Well, I’d probably screw it up anyway. That’s what I do.
I sighed, forcing my brain to move on. “Speaking of…” I flipped the compass open. “Your dad’s compass showing up on Scooter’s boat? That’s freaky.”
“Yeah, I know.” John B’s tone shifted, serious now.
“I’m just looking,” I said when he shot me a sharp look. “Relax, man.”
John B’s eyes stayed on the road, jaw tight. “That compass… it’s not just some trinket. It might lead to my dad. That’s why we’re going to talk to Ms. Lana.”
I snorted. “Yeah, I’m sure she’s gonna love that conversation. Her husband just drowned, and we’re about to roll up asking about treasure maps. Totally normal.”
John B didn’t answer, which told me he knew I was right. But we didn’t really have a choice.
JJ had everyone gathered at the Château, pacing back and forth like he was centre stage.
“And we were right outside, just like this,” he started, gesturing wildly, “and all we hear is—bam! Bam! Bam!” He mimed gunfire with his hands, voice pitched way too loud for the tiny room.
“Knocking paint off the walls, G!” JJ continued, eyes wide. “Like, actual chunks. Flying past my head. I’m just standing there thinking, ‘Welp, this is it. This is how I go. Goodbye, cruel world.’” He dragged a hand down his face, pausing dramatically. “And meanwhile, John B’s just standing there like a deer in headlights—useless!”
“That’s dandruff,” Kie muttered, wrinkling her nose.
JJ froze mid-gesture, glaring. “No, it’s paint! God, Kie, way to ruin my moment.”
A laugh slipped out of me before I could stop it, but it quickly faded as the picture of that night sharpened in my head. My heartbeat picked up. “So you actually saw the guys who shot at you?” I asked, needing to know.
“Yeah,” JJ said, more subdued now.
“Did you get a good look at them?” Pope asked immediately, leaning forward like this was an interrogation.
JJ hesitated. “Burly,” he muttered finally.
“That’s… not very helpful,” Kie deadpanned.
“I wasn’t talking mental Polaroids the entire time man, I was under duress” JJ snapped, throwing his hands in the air, his voice going quieter at the last part.
The tension spiked. Pope looked like he was about to bite back, so I stepped in quickly, my voice soft but firm.
“JJ,” I said, and he instantly looked at me. “It’s okay. Just… tell us what you do know. That’s enough.”
His shoulders relaxed the tiniest bit, and he gave me a grateful little smile — one of those rare, private ones that always made my stomach flip.
“By the way Ms. Lana was screaming?” JJ said after a beat, rubbing the back of his neck. “These guys aren’t just random thugs. They’re serious. This whole thing is a heavy vibe. I’m not liking it.”
The room fell silent at that, the weight of his words sinking in.
We stayed quiet for a beat, the air heavy with unspoken things. Then suddenly —
“Guys, someone’s here!!” John B whisper-yelled, sharp and urgent.
The room exploded into motion.
“Oh my god, this is not happening again,” I muttered, my heart thudding wildly.
Everyone scrambled for the study window, panic spreading like wildfire. I froze, memories from the break-in flashing through my mind — the shouting, the crashing, JJ yelling at me to move. My muscles remembered before my brain could catch up.
“Ange!” JJ’s voice cut through the chaos, sharp and desperate. “Come on, move!”
He reached for me, but before he could grab my arm —
“Angela!!”
My little sister’s voice jolted me awake like a bucket of ice water.
I gasped, sitting bolt upright in bed as Bella’s face swam into focus, her hands gripping my shoulders. My heart was still pounding, chest heaving as the phantom terror of the dream clung to me.
“You okay?” Bella asked softly, voice laced with worry. “You were trembling. Like… shaking, Ange.”
I dragged in a shaky breath, forcing myself to nod. “Yeah. Just… nightmare.”
“You don’t usually have those.” Her brows furrowed. “You wanna talk about it?”
Not now. Not while it was still so raw, when I could still hear JJ yelling my name, see the fear in his eyes.
“Maybe later,” I said quickly, swinging my legs off the bed. “Right now, I just… need water or something.”
Before Bella could push, Zia Jessica’s voice rang out from down the hall, urgent and sharp.
“Angela! Isabella!”
Bella and I exchanged wide-eyed looks before rushing into the hall, our full names were rarely yelled out, which wasn’t a good sign. Zia Jessica was already half out the door, baby Nico cradled in her arms, Uncle Matthew right behind her. My mum and dad trailed after them, my mum’s face pale with worry, my dad grabbing their overnight bag.
“He’s burning up—we’re taking Nico to the hospital,” Zia Jessica said in a rush, her voice shaking. “Angela, I need you to look after Ari and Bella. Lock the doors and don’t leave the house, okay? I don’t know how long we’ll be gone.”
My parents stopped long enough for Mum to grab my hands. “Honey, you’re in charge until we get back. You’re responsible for the house, Ari, and Bella. We’ll call as soon as we’re able to, but the phone lines are still down after the storm.”
The weight of it hit me like a brick.
No hesitation. No backup. Just me.
“Yeah, don’t stress,” I said quickly, forcing my voice to stay steady. “We’ll be fine here. Go.”
Uncle Matthew grabbed the keys, already halfway out the door. “We’ll be back as soon as we can. Just… keep everyone safe, Ange.”
I swallowed hard and nodded. “I’ve got this.”
The door slammed shut behind them, and the house immediately felt too big, too quiet.
Ari’s tiny voice broke the silence, high and wobbly as she called for her mummy. She stood in the hall clutching her favourite stuffed bunny, eyes wide and shiny with tears.
My heart twisted. I crouched beside her, pulling her into my arms. “Hey, it’s okay, piccolina. You’ve got me and Bella tonight, alright? We’re gonna have a fun sleepover.”
Her little arms wrapped around my neck, clinging like I was the only thing keeping her from falling apart. “Don’t let go, Angie.”
“I won’t,” I promised, my throat tightening.
But as I held her close, a different fear gnawed at me.
Phones were down.
The roads were a mess.
And for now, I wasn’t just the big cousin.I was the adult in charge.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: boat chase, gunshots, minor violence
The silence was suffocating once John B slipped beneath the surface.
Pope’s safety line floated slack beside the boat, and the rest of us sat there, staring at the dark water, waiting. Every second stretched into forever. My stomach was tied in knots, but JJ wasn’t helping — pacing, restless, jittering like he was about to dive in after John B at any moment.
“Would you sit still?” Pope hissed.
“Would you relax?” JJ shot back, voice sharp and tense.
I didn’t bother jumping in to referee. My eyes stayed on the water, every ripple a reminder that John B was down there, and the terrifying thought of what might happen kept twisting my stomach.
Then the low, rumbling growl of a motor cut through the quiet.
We all froze. My pulse spiked. Oh, no.
A familiar white boat emerged from behind the reeds. Sheriff Shoupe.
“Guys, that’s the police,” JJ muttered, his usual cocky tone gone, replaced with caution.
“Thanks, Captain Obvious,” I wanted to snap, but swallowed the words. Not now.
Shoupe pulled up beside us, eyes sharp, scanning our faces like he could see straight through to our guilty souls.
JJ shifted closer, his shoulder brushing mine. My stomach twisted — the heat radiating off him wasn’t comforting, it was electric. He moved with tense, alert precision, eyes scanning the boat and the water. Every subtle shift of his body made it clear he was ready to react if things went wrong.
I swallowed hard. I didn’t know what he was thinking, but the way he leaned toward me, poised and focused, made it impossible to ignore.
“You kids know the marsh is closed, right?” Shoupe asked, casual but loaded.
“No, sir. We didn’t,” Pope said too quickly, too smooth.
“Why’s it closed?” I added, forcing curiosity instead of panic into my tone.
“We’re conducting a search,” Shoupe replied, eyes never leaving us. “Boat went down.”
“Oh,” we chorused, probably sounding guilty as hell.
Shoupe’s gaze narrowed. “Where’s your buddy? The one you’re always with.”
John B.
“He’s, uh, working,” Kie blurted before anyone else could speak. Smooth save.
Shoupe didn’t look convinced. “I’m gonna take a look at your boat.”
We shuffled aside silently, muscles locked tight. JJ’s knuckles turned white on the railing, and his movements stayed sharp and controlled. He didn’t step away from me; if anything, he leaned subtly closer, shifting his weight so that his body seemed to create a small barrier between me and the officer. I could feel it — the intensity in his posture, the careful way he adjusted his stance, as if he were bracing for anything.
My pulse thundered. He was right there, close enough to feel every fraction of movement, alert in a way that made me hold my breath.
After what felt like forever, Shoupe finally stepped back onto his boat.
“Stay out of trouble,” he warned, one last hard look before motoring off.
The second his boat disappeared behind the reeds, we all spun toward the water.
Still no sign of John B.
“Shit,” JJ muttered, voice ragged.
Then movement.
“There he is!” I shouted, pointing.John B burst through the surface, gasping for air.
“Holy shit!” JJ lunged forward, grabbing his arm and hauling him into the boat as Kie and I rushed to help.
“You okay?” we asked in unison.
“Yeah,” he panted, holding up a dripping black bag. “Just ran out of air.”
Relief crashed through me so hard my knees went weak.
“Uh, guys?” Kie’s voice cracked. “Bogey. Two o’clock.”
My head whipped around — gut dropping.
An unfamiliar boat, too fast, too deliberate.
“Does anyone… recognise that boat?” Pope froze.
“Nope,” Kie said grimly.
“Doesn’t matter,” I cut in, instincts screaming. “John B, gun it!”
The engine roared, our boat shooting forward as spray slapped my face.
“They’re following us,” Ange said, voice tight but steady. Fierce. Always fierce.
“Hang on!” I yelled, throwing an arm out in front of her automatically. She didn’t scream or freak out like Bella or Kie — but when the first gunshot split the air, she flinched. Just a tiny jolt. She hated guns. I knew that.
Even as she straightened, face set like stone, I saw it — the tiniest crack in her armour.
My protective instincts went haywire.
“Down!” I barked, moving without thinking, shielding her with my body. If they wanted her, they’d have to go through me first.
Another round of gunfire. Bella yelped, dropping flat beside Pope. Kie shouted, but all I heard was Ange’s steady, controlled breathing beneath me.
Her fingers gripped my shirt — not in fear, but to anchor herself. I covered her hand with mine, grounding her back. I wasn’t going anywhere. Not while she was here.
“Dude, go faster!” I shouted at John B.
“I am!” he yelled, panic edging his voice.
More bullets. More chaos. Then Kie grabbed a fishing net and hurled it into the marsh. It tangled in the other boat’s propeller, jerking them to a dead stop.
The sudden silence was deafening.
I stayed crouched over Ange until I was sure we were clear. Only then did I finally look down at her.
“You good, Angel?” My voice cracked, softer than I meant it.
For a beat, she didn’t respond. Still mad at me. Still shutting me out because of the stupid, careless thing I’d said that morning.
My chest ached. If she never forgave me, I couldn’t blame her.
Then she finally said it:
“Yeah… I’m good, JJ.” My name. JJ.
It hit me like a tidal wave. Not forgiveness, not yet — but a sliver of hope shining through the walls she’d built around herself.
Across the boat, Bella caught my eye. She gave me a tiny nod, subtle but clear: approval. Like she was saying, Keep looking out for her.
And I knew she’d seen what I was trying so hard not to admit to myself.
By the time we reached the dock, my whole body felt like jelly. The adrenaline that had kept me sharp and steady during the chase burned off, leaving shaky limbs and a pounding headache.
JJ was right beside me as we unloaded, his hand brushing the small of my back — not pushy, just steady and protective. Like he couldn’t not be near me.
I didn’t acknowledge it. Couldn’t.
My walls were still up, thick and unyielding after what he’d said that morning. But my stupid heart still noticed the way he hovered, subtly shifting his body between me and anyone who came close, braced for another attack that might never come.
We all crowded around John B as he crouched over the black bag he’d risked his life to bring up from the wreck.
“What do you think it is?” Kie asked, voice hushed.
“Gotta be money,” John B replied.
“Yeah,” JJ added, his tone still wired with leftover adrenaline. “It’s either that or something worth some serious cash.”
“Can we please just open it?” Pope blurted, his usual calm completely gone. His voice cracked, and honestly, same. My nerves couldn’t take much more suspense.
I crossed my arms tightly over my chest. “Agreed. We almost died for this. Pope’s got a point.”
John B carefully unzipped the bag and pulled out… a silver canister. My brows furrowed — that wasn’t what I’d been expecting.
He tipped it over, and a small, weathered compass spilled into his hand.
JJ ripped off his hat, frustration etched across his face. “That’s it? Dude, that’s worth nothing!”
I wanted to agree with him — scream, even — but then I saw the look on John B’s face. Not disappointment. Not anger.
Pain. Deep, hollow, devastating pain.
“This…” John B whispered, his thumb brushing over the scratched surface of the compass like it was fragile glass. “This was my father’s.”
Silence fell over us, heavy and salt-thick.
JJ shifted closer to me again, his arm brushing mine. I didn’t move — not because I’d forgiven him, not because my walls had dropped, but because, for a heartbeat, it felt like I needed the steady warmth of him there to keep from unraveling completely.
From the corner of my eye, I caught Bella watching us. Her gaze flicked between me and JJ, and when she saw how close he was — how he hadn’t left my side once — her expression softened. When JJ glanced over at her, like he was silently asking if he was doing the right thing, she gave him the smallest nod. A quiet stamp of approval.
I glanced up at him, ready to mask whatever flicker of vulnerability had just crossed my face. He was already looking at me — not cocky, not smirking, just quiet and watchful.
The sight of it was almost enough to make me crumble.
Almost.
I tore my gaze away, straightening my shoulders and putting that distance back between us. Tomorrow, we’d deal with what he’d said, with everything spiralling between us. Tonight, we had bigger storms to face.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: swearing, careless comment thrown, mention of shyness, slight anxiety.
The salty morning air clung to my skin as Bella and I followed the dirt path toward the Château. My sneakers kicked up soft puffs of sand with every step, nerves curling tight in my stomach.
The yard was already alive with low voices. Pope leaned against the trailer, Kie sat on the porch steps twisting a thread on her shorts, and John B paced like he hadn’t slept at all.
Then there was JJ.
Perched on the railing, spinning an empty beer can between his fingers — like last night hadn’t happened. Like I hadn’t seen his hands shaking around a gun.
Our eyes met for a second. The air caught in my chest.
Then the smirk appeared. “Morning, Angel.”
I forced a small nod. “Morning.”
“Morning, chaos crew,” Bella said, her voice cutting through the tension. “What’s the plan?”
John B didn’t stop pacing. “We’re going back to the wreck. If that boat really was the Royal Merchant, there’s something down there we missed.”
Kie’s head snapped up. “Back out there? Are you insane? The cops are crawling all over that place.”
“Exactly,” Pope said, deadpan. “Which is why it’s a bad idea.”
JJ hopped down from the railing, his grin sliding back into place like armor. “Since when do we care about good ideas? We go in, grab what we need, get out. Simple.”
I crossed my arms. “You make it sound easy.”
He looked at me — really looked — then shrugged. “Guess that depends who you ask.”
John B cut in before I could reply. “That’s why we need oxygen tanks. If we find a couple, we’re good.”
Bella frowned. “And where are we getting those?”
JJ’s grin returned. “The Camerons’ boat. They’ve got all the fancy gear we need.”
Kie groaned. “You want to steal from Sarah Cameron’s family?”
“Borrow,” JJ corrected. “Indefinitely.”
“Steal,” Pope muttered.
“Call it what you want,” John B said, running a hand through his hair. “It’s our only shot.”
For a moment, it was quiet — just the ocean in the distance and the faint creak of the dock. Then JJ’s voice broke it, low but sharp.
“Not that it matters what you think, Angel. You’ll be gone soon anyway.”
The words hit like a slap. “What?”
He didn’t meet my eyes this time, just kept fiddling with the beer can. “You’ll go back home. Back to your life. We’ll be just another story you tell your friends — ‘Remember that summer I hung out with the Pogues?’”
It was casual, careless — except for the flicker of something underneath. Fear. Regret. The smallest hint of something breaking.
For once, I didn’t have a comeback. My throat went tight, the words catching there before I could force them out.
He didn’t know how wrong he was.
Leaving would hurt. Leaving him would hurt.
Kie stood abruptly. “JJ, what the hell is that supposed to mean?”
Pope shook his head. “Way out of line, man.”
Even John B stopped pacing. Bella opened her mouth, but I lifted a hand. “It’s fine,” I said quietly. “Let’s just focus on the dive.”
JJ’s smirk faltered for half a heartbeat before he looked away again, jaw tight.
I stood at the edge of the boat, staring down at the water, the plan was simple, John B would dive while Kie and I on safety marker duty and everyone else on lookout. It looked impossibly dark, cold, and… exposing. My stomach twisted, and my hands trembled slightly as I fumbled with the cover-up.
Kie crouched beside me, her presence quiet but steady. She didn’t speak, just waited, giving me the space to gather myself.
“You good?” she whispered.
I took a shaky breath, forcing a small nod. “Yeah… I think so.”
The cover-up slipped from my shoulders, and the nerves hit me all at once. I wasn’t sure if it was the water, the boat rocking beneath me, or the thought of anyone looking, but every instinct screamed to retreat.
Kie’s eyes met mine, calm and encouraging. That was enough. I squared my shoulders, drew in a deep breath, and let myself step forward.
The cold air pricked my skin, my pulse spiked, and then I dove.
JJ’s POV
I should’ve been watching John B, making sure everything was running smooth.
But my focus? Locked on her.
Ange.
The girl who’d been distant all morning. The girl whose voice had cut through the chaos at the bonfire. The girl now gliding through the water like she belonged somewhere better, somewhere safe.
And damn if my brain didn’t just short-circuit.
I knew I’d screwed up. I’d said something I couldn’t take back.
When she dove, my chest tightened instantly. Come up, Angel. Please.
When she climbed back onto the boat, she yanked her cover-up over her shoulders like a shield, eyes downcast. My chest tightened—not jealousy, not really—but frustration. And the insult I’d thrown at her that morning? I saw it still there in the way she hesitated, in the careful way she avoided meeting my eyes. I’d hurt her. And I didn’t want to.
I leaned against the railing, careful not to move too close, but close enough to see the slight tremble in her hands. She glanced up for just a split second, caught me looking, and quickly looked away. That flicker—barely a glance, but enough—made my chest twist.
As she moved to secure the line, I stepped just a little closer, casually brushing the rope so it fell right in her reach. She caught it without noticing the gesture. My smirk stayed firmly in place. Nothing’s wrong, my face said. Everything’s fine.
I stayed angled so I could keep an eye on her, making sure she was safe, but keeping it subtle—never hovering, never obvious. This was how I did concern: quiet, teasing, like it was all just part of the game.
I watched as she and Kie finished tying the line, Kie giving her an encouraging grin from the surface. I caught the faintest smile on Ange’s face, small but genuine, and it hit me harder than anything. She was trying, despite everything. Despite me.
Bella caught my stare from the deck, her brown eyes sharp. She gave me a small shake of her head, like a silent warning: don’t push her right now.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: gun use, violence, attempted drowning, minor swearing
The bonfire burned bright against the dark sky, laughter and music carrying across the sand. The air was thick with salt, smoke, and cheap beer — pure Cut chaos.
Bella and I pushed through the crowd until John B spotted us, lifting his cup like a signal.
“Well, well, well,” he called over the music, grinning. “Look who finally decided to show up.”
“Maybe we just like to be fashionably late,” Bella shot back, her grin matching his.
And then there he was — JJ, leaning against the keg, curls messy, shirt untucked, smirk locked and loaded. He looked at me like I was the joke he’d been waiting to make all night.
“Well, if it isn’t Sleeping Beauty,” he drawled, voice dripping with mischief. “What took you so long, Angel? Had to save a kingdom before you could leave the house?”
I didn’t miss a beat. “Please. You’d still be napping if I waited for you to do the saving.”
JJ blinked, then laughed — that low, genuine one that always slipped out when I caught him off guard. “Okay, I’ll give you that one.”
“Good,” I said, crossing my arms but fighting a smile. “Wouldn’t want you thinking you’ve got the monopoly on smart remarks.”
Bella groaned under her breath. “You two should just sell tickets at this point.”
“For your information,” I said, turning to her, “we were late because Ari had a meltdown over her soccer shirt.”
That made JJ pause, his smirk softening for a heartbeat. “A soccer shirt?”
“Her favourite one,” Bella said, rolling her eyes. “There were tears. There was screaming. It was chaos.”
JJ chuckled, shaking his head. “Sounds like an emergency. Let me guess — you fixed it?”
I shrugged, smiling. “Someone had to.”
“Knew it,” he said, pointing at me. “Always the hero.”
I swatted at his arm — more playful than I meant — and he leaned in just enough that my heart skipped.
“Careful, Angel,” he murmured, voice lazy and warm. “Keep doing that, and people might get ideas.”
My laugh came out soft, a little breathless. “Relax, Maybank. No one’s getting ideas.”
His grin flickered, just for a second — surprise, maybe — before he shoved his hands into his pockets, covering it with a crooked smile.
Bella groaned dramatically. “Okay, enough flirting. I’m getting a drink before I lose my mind.”
She stormed off toward the keg, leaving me with the boys.
“Okay, who are they?” I asked John B, desperate to redirect my racing thoughts as Bella disappeared into the crowd.
He followed my gaze toward the fire — a tall blonde girl who looked like she’d stepped out of a magazine, and a guy with perfect hair and a smirk that screamed entitled trouble.
“That’s Sarah Cameron,” he said. “Kook princess. And her boyfriend…” he paused, lips twitching, “Topper.”
I blinked. “That’s his actual name?”
Before John B could answer, JJ turned around, eyebrows raised. “Unfortunately, yeah. Guess Mommy and Daddy thought it sounded classy.”
I choked on a laugh. “You’re joking, right? Who names their kid Topper?”
John B started laughing too. “Exactly what I said.”
The name alone sent me into a fit of giggles I couldn’t stop. “Oh my God, how do you even say that with a straight face?”
JJ’s grin turned sly. “Who says we do? Guy’s a walking trust fund with a name to match.”
That only made me laugh harder. JJ bumped my shoulder, eyes bright. “Careful, Angel. You’re gonna pull something laughing that hard.”
“Not my fault you live somewhere people are named Topper,” I said, still smiling.
“Fair point,” he said with a lazy grin. “We breed ‘em fancy out here.”
For a brief moment, everything felt easy — the fire crackling, the laughter, JJ watching me like I was the only thing worth looking at.
Then the mood shifted. Sarah and Topper’s group were watching John B now, and the air tightened like a pulled wire.
The crowd thinned near the fire. I followed Bella through the sand, JJ already ahead of us, greeting people like he owned the night.
The bonfire roared, sparks leaping into the sky — that dangerous kind of night that could go wrong in an instant.
Then I saw her. Sarah Cameron — hair glowing gold in the firelight, standing on the edge of everything.
JJ noticed her too. Of course he did.
Before anyone could stop him, he grabbed two beers and sauntered over, that trademark swagger in full force.
“Oh, no…” I muttered.
“What’s he doing?” Bella asked.
“Being JJ,” I said tightly. “Which usually ends with someone bleeding.”
Sarah looked startled but polite — until he showed up.
Topper stormed up behind her, every inch of him screaming control.
“Back off, Maybank,” he snapped, shoving JJ.
JJ stumbled but grinned. “Easy, man. Didn’t realise your girlfriend came with a leash.”
The crowd hushed.
John B stepped forward. “Hey, nobody’s trying to start—”
Topper shoved him — hard. John B hit JJ, who barely caught him before he fell.
JJ’s grin vanished. His whole body went still.
“Oh, hell no,” he muttered — and then chaos erupted.
Fists, sand, shouting. Sarah screamed. Topper slammed John B into the water, holding him down.
Time stopped.
John B didn’t come up.
“John B!” I screamed, trying to run — Bella’s hand caught my arm.
“Ange, wait—!”
“I can’t—!” I tore free, heart in my throat. John B’s limbs thrashed, slower now.
“JJ!” I screamed.
He turned — and the look on his face froze the air.
Then, in one motion, he pulled a gun.The world stopped breathing.
He pressed it to Topper’s neck.“Yeah, you know what that is,” JJ snarled. “Now let him go!”
Topper’s hands shot up. John B collapsed, coughing, gasping for air.
But JJ didn’t move. His hand trembled. His jaw clenched.
“JJ!” I shouted, pushing through the circle of people until I was close enough to see the flicker in his eyes. “JJ, look at me!”
His head snapped toward me — eyes wild, hurt, lost.
“Please,” I said, voice shaking. “You don’t need to do this. He’s not worth it.”
He blinked, chest heaving. “Ange…”
“Put it down,” I whispered. “You’re better than this.”
A beat.
Then JJ ripped the gun away from Topper’s neck and stumbled back, breath ragged.
Topper didn’t wait. He dragged Sarah away, the Kooks scattering into the dark.
JJ fired two shots into the sky — deafening, final.
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
pairing: JJ Maybank x OC
Warnings: toddler meltdown
The nickname hit me square in the chest.
For once, it didn’t make me think of the past or the person who broke me.
It just made me think of JJ — his crooked smile, his reckless energy, and the way he was slowly, without meaning to, sneaking past all my walls that I swore he shouldn’t get through.
Bella walked a few paces ahead, muttering something under her breath as we followed the sandy path toward Zia Jess and Uncle Matthew’s house. The warm night air clung to my skin, and my mind kept replaying JJ’s last words over and over again like a song I couldn’t turn off.
I didn’t even realise I’d been smiling — a soft, stupid little grin — until Bella spun around abruptly, walking backward to face me. Her eyes narrowed suspiciously.
“Oh my God, Ange.” She pointed a finger at me like she’d just solved a murder. “You’re smiling like a total idiot.”
I blinked, heat rushing to my face. “I am not.”
“You so are!” She grinned triumphantly, practically bouncing in excitement. “I think we should change the name of this smile to your JJ smile because it’s the same one you had the first time Mum and Papa surprised you with our dog, Rocky when we were little.”
I groaned, dragging a hand down my face. “Bella, seriously—”
“No, no, don’t even try to deny it.” She wagged her finger at me. “You hate that nickname, even Papa can’t say it. You practically wanted to bite JJ’s head off every time he said it when we first got here. But now?” Her grin widened mischievously. “Now you look… different when he calls you Angel. Don’t even try to hide it.”
I let out an exaggerated groan, covering my face with both hands as we walked. “You’re insufferable.”
“Uh-huh.” She skipped a step, clearly loving every second of my torment. “And you’re in denial.”
“Bella…” I warned, lowering my hands to glare at her, though my cheeks were still on fire.
“Admit it.” She smirked. “The way he says Angel hits different. It’s not like…” Her expression softened briefly. “You know. Him.”
I exhaled slowly, my chest tightening at the unspoken reference to my ex, Trevor.
“I know.” My voice was quieter now, almost a whisper. “That’s what scares me.”
Bella’s teasing smile faltered for a second, her protective side peeking through. She bumped her shoulder against mine.
“Hey. You’ve got me. Mum. Papa. Zia Jess. Uncle Matthew. Ari. Nico. You’re not alone in this.”
I gave her a small smile, comforted by her words even as my heart kept twisting in ways I didn’t understand.
“Thanks, Bells.”
“Anytime,” she said with a wink. Then her grin turned mischievous again, just like that.
“But also? You totally like him.”
“Bella!” I groaned, shoving her lightly as we neared the porch.
She just cackled, darting ahead before I could swat her.
The comforting smell of Zia Jess’s cooking drifted through the house as we stepped inside. Warm light spilled across the living room, and the familiar low hum of my family’s voices filled the space, wrapping around me like a hug.
Papa and Uncle Matt sat at the dining table, cards spread between them. Papa had a serious poker face on, while Uncle Matt’s grin gave away exactly what he was holding.
“Don’t even think about bluffing me, Matt,” Papa said, narrowing his eyes.
Uncle Matt chuckled. “You’re just jealous I’m winning.”
“You wish,” Papa shot back, though his grin betrayed his amusement.
Ari’s giggles rang out from the kitchen where Mum and Zia Jess were cooking. My little cousin sat in her booster seat at the counter, banging a wooden spoon like it was a drum.
The moment she spotted me, her whole face lit up.
“Angie!” she squealed, waving her spoon wildly.
“Hey, Tesoro (sweetheart),” I said warmly, leaning down to kiss her head before straightening.
Zia Jess gave me a knowing look, stirring a pot of sauce. “You girls have fun today?”
Bella answered first, heading straight for the fridge. “Yeah. Exhausting, though.”
I nodded, my smile tired but genuine. “It was good, Zia. But I’m completely wiped. The time difference is still killing me.”
Mum glanced over her shoulder from the stove, her tone warm but concerned.
“Make sure you get some proper rest, Ange. You’ve been running on empty since we got here.”
Papa looked up from his cards, his sharp poker face softening instantly.
“Go rest, stellina,” he said gently, using his favourite nickname for me and Bella — little star.
“You’ve had a big day.”
Uncle Matt added, barely looking up from his hand, “We’ve got things handled here. Dinner’ll be ready in a couple hours.”
I gave them a grateful smile. “Thanks, Papa. Thanks, Uncle.”
“Go, go,” Zia Jess said, shooing me toward the hall with her spoon. “The jet lag will win if you don’t.”
As I walked past, Papa called after me, his tone light but loving.
“Make sure to tell us if you plan on staying out late tonight, okay?”
“Of course,” I said automatically. My parents weren’t strict about curfews as long as someone knew where I was, who I was with, and if I was coming home that night. It gave me a kind of freedom I didn’t take for granted.
In my room, I changed into a fresh, comfortable outfit — something simple that made me feel at ease in my own skin. After the adrenaline of the day, all I wanted was to breathe and just be for a moment.
My whole body ached with exhaustion — partly from the adrenaline crash of the day, partly from my swirling emotions about JJ.
I wasn’t ready to face him again. Not yet.
Curling up on the bed, I promised myself I’d just close my eyes for a bit before the evening.
Outside my door, I could hear Ari squealing happily as Papa pretended to lose another round of cards, uncle Matt’s booming laugh following.
A soft knock echoed through the house, followed by the front door creaking open.
“Ciao! Anyone home?” A voice called out but I couldn’t make it out fully from my room although it sounded bright and full of energy.
I stirred in bed, still groggy from my nap. The warm, heavy fog of jet lag hadn’t completely worn off, even after two weeks here.
Before I could drag myself fully awake, Papa’s deep, warm voice carried through the hall.
“Ah, Kiara! Come in, come in.” His Italian accent rolled smoothly over her name. “Angela is napping. Her room is down the hall, second door on the right.”
From the kitchen, Mum’s voice followed, warm and welcoming.
“Kiara! Are you hungry? I just made fresh focaccia.”
Kie laughed, clearly tempted but sounding regretful. “That sounds incredible, Bianca, but I’ve gotta run. Big night tonight.”
“Next time, you don’t get to say no,” Mum said with mock sternness.
“Deal!” Kie replied quickly.
Across the hall, Bella’s door swung open. Her slightly lighter brown hair was sticking up in every direction, and her voice was rough with sleep.
“Kie?” she mumbled, rubbing her eyes.
“Hey, Bella,” Kie greeted her with a quick grin as she appeared in the doorway.
My door opened next, and I leaned against the frame, still half-asleep. “What’s going on?”
Kie’s grin widened. “Big kegger at the Boneyard tonight. It’s gonna be packed — everyone’s going to be there. You two have about two hours to get ready, which should be plenty of time.”
Bella’s sleepiness evaporated instantly. She gasped like Kie had just told her she won the lottery. “A kegger? Yes. Absolutely yes.” She spun around and sprinted back into her room, already tearing through her suitcase like she was on a timed game show.
I groaned, rubbing my temple. “Kie, I literally just woke up.”
“Perfect,” Kie shot back, smirking. “You’ll be well-rested for a night of fun. Wear something you don’t mind getting sandy — it’s the Boneyard.”
Bella popped her head back out, holding two potential tops like she was deciding between life and death.
“This is going to be epic,” she declared, practically vibrating with excitement.
Kie grinned at her reaction. “You’re gonna fit right in, Bella.” Then her eyes shifted to me, narrowing playfully. “And you, Miss Jet Lag, better not bail on me. This is non-negotiable.”
I rolled my eyes but couldn’t hide a small smile. “Go on, before you’re late setting up your big night.”
Kie pointed at me like a warning. “Two hours, Ange! Don’t make me come back here and drag you out.”
When the door closed behind her, Bella let out a squeal, bouncing on her toes.
“Oh my God, Ange, a kegger. On the beach. With cute boys. This is like… movie-level summer vacation.”
I laughed despite myself. “Relax, Bells. It’s just a kegger.”
Her grin widened mischievously. “No, it’s the kegger. Now hurry up — we have a mission.”
Bella and I had just finished getting ready when a sharp, piercing wail erupted from downstairs.
We froze mid-step, halfway to the door.
“That’s Ari,” Bella whispered, eyes wide. “The serious cry.”
Another wail followed, louder this time, with the frantic thud-thud-thud of tiny feet stomping against the hardwood.
I groaned. “Oh no. Not the serious cry.”
We bolted down the stairs, and the sight that met us was pure chaos.
Ari was in the middle of the living room, red-faced and screaming like the world was ending. Her little curls stuck out in wild tufts, and she clutched her favourite tiny soccer shirt in both fists like it was a lifeline. Tears and snot streaked down her blotchy cheeks.
Papa and Uncle Matthew were crouched near her, each looking like they’d rather be facing down a hurricane than a furious toddler. Papa’s hands were out like he was pleading with her, while Uncle Matthew just looked… lost.
On the couch, Mum was holding baby Nico, rocking him gently while humming under her breath. Across the room, Zia Jess stood at the counter making a bottle, her expression tight with focus — clearly leaving the meltdown to the men.
The second Ari spotted me, she shrieked and launched herself in my direction like a tiny cannonball.
“Angieeeee!” she sobbed, wrapping her arms around my neck so tightly I almost choked. “No go! No go!”
Uncle Matthew immediately straightened, exhaling in relief like he’d just been handed a lifeline. “Oh, thank God you’re here, Ange. She’s been going at this for fifteen minutes straight.”
Papa’s voice was warm but frazzled. “Angela, per favore (please), see if you can talk to her, sì (yeah)?
I shifted Ari in my arms, gently rocking her. “Hey, hey, Tesoro (sweetheart), What’s wrong?”
Her words came out broken and hiccupy between sobs.
“Shirt! Dirty! Want now!” She shoved the crumpled little soccer shirt toward me with all the drama of someone presenting crucial evidence at a trial.
I blinked. “Wait—you want to wear this shirt for dinner?”
“Yesh!” she wailed, face scrunching up. “Wear NOW!”
Bella muttered under her breath, “We’re never leaving this house.”
Mum sighed from the couch, bouncing Nico on her hip. “I told her I’d wash it, but she only wants you to do it, Ange.”
“Of course she does,” Bella said dryly. “You’re officially Ari’s personal laundry fairy.”
“Bella,” I hissed, then turned back to Ari, who was hiccuping dramatically, her fists still clenched around the shirt. “Ari, listen. If we wash it now, it won’t be ready for dinner. You’d have to wear something else.”
“NOOOO!” Ari kicked her little feet in protest, curls flying everywhere. “Want this one!”
She was spiraling fast.
I tried everything i could think of but then a thought clicked, time to pull out the secret weapon: Daniel.
“Hey, hey,” I said softly, bouncing her slightly. “You know who else wears this shirt?”
Her sobs slowed just a tiny fraction. “Danyel…”
“That’s right,” I said, nodding like this was very serious business. “Daniel’s a big, strong soccer player, right?”
Ari sniffled, nodding miserably. “Uh-huh…”
“And do you think Daniel cries when he has to wait for his shirt to get cleaned?”
She hesitated, lip wobbling. “…No?”
“That’s right.” I smoothed back her curls. “Daniel waits patiently, like a strong player. You can be strong like Daniel, can’t you?”
Ari wavered, sniffling so hard her whole body shook.
“Be… stwong,” she repeated, voice tiny.
“Yes! Exactly.” I gave her my most encouraging smile. “If you wait tonight, I promise I’ll wash it myself while I’m out. First thing tomorrow morning, it’ll be clean and ready for you to wear. Pinky promise.”
She sniffled again, considering it like it was the biggest decision of her life.
“Pinky pwomise?”
I linked my pinky with hers. “Pinky promise.”
Finally, Ari let out a shaky sigh, her shoulders sagging. “Okay…”
The whole room seemed to exhale at once.
Mum kissed Nico’s forehead and smiled warmly at me. “Thanks, Ange. You’re a lifesaver.”
Papa chuckled, lowering himself into a chair like he’d just survived battle. “Vai a divertirti (go have fun), Angela. We’ll take care of this one.”
I kissed Ari’s damp cheek and whispered, “I’ll see you in the morning, little one.”
She gave me one last watery, pitiful look as Mum carried her upstairs, already distracting her with talk of dessert.
As Bella and I slipped out the door, Ari’s tiny voice followed me, muffled but still heartbreaking.
“Angieeee…”
My chest tightened, but Bella was already jogging ahead, muttering, “We are so late. JJ’s going to be impossible.”
I tied my white Nikes tightly, exhaling. “He will live, Ari comes first.”
Bella smirked, tossing me a sideways glance. “Oh, I know. Just wait till JJ hears about this. He’s gonna have a field day teasing you.”
I groaned, shoving my hands in my pockets. “Let him try.”
Summary: Angela goes back to the outerbanks after many years to visit family and enjoy her holiday. Little did she know how much her life was going to change!
Pairing: JJ Maybank x OC midsize fem
Warnings: swearing, mention of gun
The motel room was small and dingy, with two single beds shoved against opposite walls. One bed had a battered duffel bag thrown on top, while another worn-out bag sat on a rickety table in front of the beds. The faint smell of mildew hung in the air, mixing with the faint scent of old cigarettes.
I followed JJ inside, stopping just inside the doorway to take it all in. My eyes flicked over the clutter — empty cans, a pair of muddy boots, some crumpled papers.
"Check the bag," John B said, already diving into the duffel. "See if there’s a name or anything that might tell us who owns this dump."
JJ and John B crouched by the bed, rifling through the duffel with practiced ease. I circled the room, scanning the small desk and nightstand, trying to catch something others might miss.
JJ suddenly called us over from the bedside table, holding up a crumpled, faded map.
“Maybe this is where they were fishing,” he said, pointing to a section of marked waterways.
John B shook his head. “Nah, no one fishes there. You’d know if you surfed the surge like me.” He gave JJ a cocky grin that made me smile despite the tension.
I knelt by the table, my fingers brushing over a small piece of paper tucked underneath the map. It had a series of numbers and letters — a code or a combination, maybe?
“Hey, what about this?” I asked, holding it up. “Looks like some kinda code.”
JJ glanced over but waved it off. “Probably nothing. We’ll see.”
Meanwhile, the boys were having their own fun, trying out terrible English accents as they poked around the room.
“Oi, John, what d’you reckon this place is? Some kinda ruddy palace?” JJ teased, his voice dripping with mock sophistication.
John B played along, puffing up his chest. “Aye, mate. Palace for the poor, that’s what it is.”
I bit back a laugh, shaking my head. The rough edges of this group — their crude jokes and easy camaraderie — somehow made the whole sketchy motel feel a little less intimidating.
As JJ tossed the map onto the table, our eyes met for a split second. There was something unspoken there, a spark under the surface, but it was gone before either of us could lean into it.
I turned back to the note in my hand, feeling a strange mix of excitement and unease. We were chasing something bigger than ourselves now, and for once, I was glad I wasn’t alone.
JJ let out an excited noise as the safe popped open. “Find anything?” I asked, stepping closer.
“Yeah, a really awesome dopp kit you guys won’t let me steal,” JJ joked, flashing that cocky grin. “But look at this!” He waved a wad of cash in one hand and a gun in the other, like he was showing off trophies.
John B and I exchanged wide-eyed looks. “Holy shit,” we said together.
I called JJ again, catching his attention in a way that made him pause. “Uh… JJ?” I said, using his first name this time, and I caught the flicker of surprise in his eyes like I’d thrown him off balance.
He turned toward me so fast, I thought he might get whiplash.
“What’s up, Angel?” he teased, but there was something softer in his voice—like he was holding back a smile just for me.
John B knelt down to inspect the loot more closely. “This isn’t some casual cash stash,” he said seriously. “Looks like the owner was deep in something shady.”
JJ crouched beside me, his knee brushing against mine. I felt the spark—annoying and thrilling all at once.
“So, Mr. Big Bad Pogue,” I teased, “You really think we’re in over our heads?”
JJ smirked, that cocky edge back in full force. “Only the weak and feeble get in over their heads, Angel. Us? We’re just getting started.”
I rolled my eyes but smiled, trying to act unimpressed. “Yeah, yeah. You’re a legend.”
He gave me a slow, teasing look that said You know it. Then, leaning in, he whispered, “You better keep up, Angel. This ride’s just beginning.”
I stiffened, the nickname somehow feeling warmer this time.
John B cleared his throat, bringing us back to reality. “We’ve got to move. Whoever owns this will come looking.”
JJ shot me a quick glance, a promise shining in his eyes. “Don’t worry. We’ll figure it out. Together.”
My heart thudded. I nodded, voice steady but inside I was spinning. “Together.”
JJ was the first to grab the gun. “Woah, JJ, put it back,” I said, voice tight. Guns always made me anxious, and I wasn’t sure why, but maybe it was because in Australia the rules around them were strict—something I was silently thankful for.
John B was trying to talk JJ into putting it down too, but JJ wasn’t having any of it.
“Chill, I’m just checking it out,” he said with that usual cocky grin, like nothing could faze him.
While John B was negotiating with JJ, I heard a soft tap on the window. At first, I ignored it; the boys were being too loud anyway. Then again—tap, tap—it came again. This time John B noticed it too. We peeked through the blinds and saw Pope and Kie signalling frantically.
Cops. Fuck.
John B scrambled to open the window and usher us out onto the narrow windowsill just outside. I found myself standing next to JJ, pressed against the cold pipe while he was right by the window. I was silently praying we wouldn’t get caught.
Suddenly, JJ shifted to face John B, and something fell from his pocket—clattering loudly on the ledge before hitting the ground below.
“Shit,” I thought.
We were gone.
I felt JJ press into me, one hand on my waist, keeping me steady as we froze, holding our breath. Every ridge of his body was impossibly sculpted, the kind of presence that made your heart race even when you wanted to stay calm. It was so unfair how attractive he was, but I’d never tell him that. Not when it would only make his cockiness worse and it wouldn’t get me very far.
We finally heard the cops leave, and everyone let out a collective sigh of relief. I wanted to get out of there right this second, but I couldn’t move until JJ did.
He hesitated for a moment, lingering hand on my waist like he was reluctant to break the contact.
When he finally pulled away, I shivered, the sudden loss of his warmth hitting me harder than I expected. I shrugged it off—just the adrenaline wearing off, I told myself.
Once the coast was clear, we scrambled back inside. John B scooped up the cash, JJ snatched the gun, and we bolted out the back door, sprinting toward the docks.
The boat came into view, rocking gently in the water.
Kie, Pope, and Bella were perched on the edge, panic etched across their faces.
“What the hell took you so long?” Bella yelled the second we were close enough.
Her eyes flicked over me, like she was checking for injuries.
“Long story,” I panted, breathless from the run. “Just go!”
Pope gunned the engine, and we sped off across the water.
The salty wind whipped past, stinging my eyes.
I sank into the seat beside Bella, hugging my knees to my chest.
Everyone was talking at once — John B explaining what they’d found, Kie cursing about how close it had been — but their voices faded into background noise.
All I could focus on was the moment at the window.
JJ pressed against me, hand on my waist. Why hadn’t he moved right away when the coast cleared? Why did he hesitate? Why did his hand linger?
I hated how much it lingered.
How much he lingered.
The boat finally slowed as we neared the dock. My legs felt like jelly when I stood, a mix of adrenaline and exhaustion crashing through me.
