#bsfbrother!rafe

[drewsbby]

your best friends brother rafe cameron.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who noticed you the first time you walked into the room with sarah. your laugh soft, with that twinkle in your eyes. the second sarah caught him looking, her expression shut down instantly, a quiet, sharp “no.” like she already knew exactly where his mind was going.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who actually listens to sarah at first. keeping his distance, barely looking at you, forcing himself to treat you like just another one of her friends, but it doesn’t last, because every time you’re around, his attention drifts right back to you like it’s a magnetic pull.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who starts with those subtle glances again, quick at first, then slower, heavier, and you always catch them, always hold his gaze just long enough to make his jaw tighten, but your glance is of annoyance, knowing his reputation.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who talks about you like it’s nothing to topper and kelce, brushing it off, but your name comes up a little too often, his tone just slightly different, gaze a little love struck enough for them to notice.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who finds reasons to be in the same space as you, walking into rooms you and sarah are in, leaning in the doorways, making annoying comments on the things you're both doing, or hovering just enough to get your attention without making it obvious.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who realizes real quick you don’t treat him like everyone else does, rolling your eyes, brushing past him, muttering a quiet “fuck off, Rafe” when he blocks your path, and instead of backing off, it only makes him push more, his forbidden fruit.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who tests the line constantly by standing too close in empty hallways, letting his hand brush yours, watching you carefully like he’s waiting for you to pull away, and noticing when you don’t.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who ends up alone with you one time and doesn’t move out of your way, head tilted, smirk slow, “you’re different when sarah’s not around.” and something about the way you don’t deny it? yeah, that’s where it clicks for him.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who somehow gets your number and starts texting you, casual at first like it’s the most insignificant thing in the world, then with purpose and he sees the exact moment you stop pretending you’re not interested, and he steals the opportunity with quickness.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who corners you in the kitchen when the house is quiet, voice low, stepping into your space like he’s been waiting for this “i know what you’re doing, right” a small tilt of his head, “what do you mean?” you reply. his eyes flicking to your lips, “this little game” and when you don’t walk away, his lips find yours, closing the distance.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who who wasn’t supposed to cross that line, but now that he has, there’s is absolutely no going back. he keeps it secret at first, saying things like a quiet “come here,” slipping you down hallways and into his room, the door shutting quick behind you like second nature.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who always keeps one ear out for footsteps, but still lingers, still keeps you close a second longer than he should, like he physically can’t help it. bsfriendsbrother!rafe who, right before you leave his room, grabs your wrist and pulls you back in for one more second, forehead resting against yours, “you’re trouble,” he mutters, and when you whisper, “you started it,” he just smirks satisfied “oh and i’m not stoppin’ sweetheart.”

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who tries to fix your hair before you leave, straightens your clothes, with a low voice right by your ear, “you’re fine baby, just act normal.” like he didn’t just make that impossible, like that ‘baby’ didn’t just make you weak at the knees. 

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who acts like nothing’s happening in front of everyone, barely looks at you but somehow, you both always disappear at the same time at parties, reappearing minutes later like nothing happened, and no one suspects it, because you act like you hate him in front of people. 

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who actually catches you staring at him across the room and doesn’t look away this time, just smirks knowingly. later, when he finally gets you alone, he leans in close, voice low “keep lookin’ at me like that in front of everyone, and see what happens.”

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who thrives off the secrecy of it. the risk of it all, the way you both have to listen for doors opening, or voices getting too close. and the way you come back flustered every single time, rambling excuses. 

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who brushes past you in a crowded room, fingers grazing your lower back just enough to make your stomach flutter, and without even looking at you, he mutters, “meet me upstairs in five.” and the worst part? you always go.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who watches you text the groupchat, “can’t today, next time!” while you’re sitting right next to him, and that smug little smirk settles, with that proud pit in his stomach like he’s saying ‘yeah, she chose me.’

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who overhears some assholes at the country club talking about how they want to hook up with you, and has to control himself from becoming his old reckless self again. but smirks saying “i think she’s taken” with a shrug 

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who texts you while you’re sitting right next to sarah with no shame, phone buzzing in your hand, rafe: you look prettyand when you glance up, he’s already watching you, eyes low, leaning back like nothing’s wrong you: you’re gonna get us caughtrafe: that’s the the risk of the game

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who tells himself it’s just a fling at first, you’re just sneaking around, or it’s just something to pass time. but he keeps coming back, he keeps pulling you aside, he keeps wanting more than just a few minutes, and even a few minutes to him isn’t becoming enough anymore. 

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who gets irritated when you pull away, questioning what you’re doing. his jaw’s tight, voice lowering out of hurt and annoyance, “you’re still here, aren’t you?” like that alone proves you feel it too.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who starts blurring the lines without even realizing. spending more time and longer nights together. the moments becoming more intimate until you both realize it’s not just a fling anymore. 

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who shows up to your house one night with hibiscus flowers, because you briefly mentioned once you liked them. acting like it’s the most normal thing, given your ‘situation’ but he’s watching your reaction a little too closely for it to just be nothing.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who starts taking you out, but always somewhere off the obx, on the mainland, somewhere no one will recognize you, no chance of it getting back to sarah, or any of your other friends.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who is still cocky and a little dangerous, but softer with you in ways he doesn’t even realize, like it just natural.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who loves when you start soft launching him on instagram, with pictures like your hand in his, or his chain, or his shoulder, but never his face. just enough to have people asking questions, and people, including sarah asked many questions. 

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who overhears people talking about your ‘mystery man’ and just leans back, smirking to himself, because they have no idea it’s him, the one person it shouldn’t be.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who kinda treats it like a game, sneaking around, and he loves how long you both get away with it.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who starts getting more careless over time, holding onto you a little longer, looking at you a little too openly, sending winks your way, like he’s slowly caring less about who finds out.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who realizes he’s in too deep when it stops feeling like a game and starts feeling like he wants it to be his normal, like he doesn’t just want secret moments anymore, he wants all of it, he wants people to know you’re his.

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who gets a little jealous when someone’s talking to you too long, stepping in casually, arm brushing yours, “she’s busy,” he says smoothly, eyes not leaving yours, then quieter, just to you, “or you forgot that?”

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who doesn’t care he’s just did that in a crowd of people, “are you fucking insane?” you ask him, shocked he would defend you like that so publicly, he leans down to your ear, his lips almost brushing your skin, “pretty girl i dont give a fuck who’s watchin’ anymore.”

bsfriendsbrother!rafe who knows you’re hesitant because of sarah. he knows that once she finds out all hell will break loose. she’ll be angry about the line you crossed the second you let him even touch you. but would rather deal with sarah’s anger, than pretend he doesn’t want you and everything that entails you anymore.

[novamiss]

ditched & devoted- ghosted

summary: your lifelong best friend has been ghosting you but it's not a clean break when your families are just as close - family dinners with the Cameron's just got a lot more boring so I guess its time for the eldest to step up his game.

pairing: best friend's brother rafe x fem!reader

next part

words: 1.5k

It started just a week before summer break, Sarah and Topper called off their whatever-ship and the friend group got a bit awkward and disjointed. You stayed by Sarah’s side telling her she could do better- because I mean come on it's Topper, he’s a good time at boat parties and bonfires but he’s not Sarah Cameron. You thought she was just a bit upset, always on her phone while you were hanging out because she was trying to distract herself. But then that was weird because she stopped answering your texts and facetimes, so then maybe she was trying to have an online detox, stop herself from looking at Topper’s endless gym selfies and golf shots. Surely, she wasn’t just ghosting you.

Sarah had been your best friend for years, not just years, but since before you could remember. The l/n’s and Cameron’s were names linked in every kook and pogues mind as business partners, friends, basically family. Your dad was the first kook to believe in Ward and invest in Cameron Development and so, an empire was born.

Sarah was basically your sister, your bedrooms were interchangeable, sharing closets as easily as gum. Sure, you had times where there were lulls; like when new boyfriends appeared or when Sarah first befriended Kiara in 9th grade, the texts would lower to a couple a week. But you would always quickly return to normal, the boyfriends would eventually disappoint and for a short while your duo became a trio, Kiara bending that unbreakable bond to include one more. And when that friendship burnt out and a fierce hatred took its place, you stuck by Sarah’s side because that’s what best friends did, and Kiara hated you just as much for simply existing in Sarah’s orbit.

But this time felt different. It was summer- yours and Sarah’s time to thrive, yet it’s been radio silent. No texts, no late night facetimes, or sneaking out on the Druthers to get tipsy with nothing but each other and the sun. It’s not like you didn’t have other friends, you did and you’d been making the most of your summer break, but over 2 weeks without even speaking to your best friend felt plain wrong. And you knew it wasn’t just you, no one else in your group had heard from her either. You would have put out an amber alert if not for the small glimpses - her car driving off in the rear-view, the Druthers sailing in an opposite direction, her laugh floating away in the wind. 

And that’s when the rumours started. Sarah Cameron spotted off with the pogues. Possibly even dating the pogue president himself, John B Routledge. And then you caught glimpses of her on smaller boats, closer to a canoe than a yacht. But still you tried to reach out; sent out texts that went unanswered, calls that went to voicemail. All of which only making you feel more like the annoying, clingy girlfriend that couldn’t catch a hint, so you decided to go on with your summer without her - for the first time ever. 

However, that is easier said than done when your families are so closely intertwined. Over the last 2 weeks you had gone to more family dinners with the Cameron’s than Sarah herself, and it turns out that these dinners where actually pretty dull without your best friend to sneak sips of wine with and roll your eyes at the drone of endless business talk. 

You were sat in the Cameron’s backyard, again, your families spattered around the patio dining table, lit only by the fading sun and the faintest glimmer of the outside fairy lights starting to turn on. Ward and your dad sat at either end, rattling off costs, margins and profits from their latest deals, while Rose and your mother nodded along while also attempting to plan their next charity fundraiser. Wheezie and your little brother, Miles, were talking about some youtuber they’re newly obsessed with, whispering over their phones. Which left you with the eldest Cameron, Rafe. He sat opposite you in his chair, trying not to slouch, but as the dinner drawled on you watched his shoulders sink lower and you could tell he was having just about as much fun as you were, except he had to at least be pretending to listen to the shop talk, nodding along whenever Ward caught his eye. You knock your foot into his under the table, making his eyes dart to yours.

“I’m surprised you’re here, Kelce said he was having the guys round tonight.” You start, taking a small sip from your glass.

“Nah, wasn’t feeling it.” Rafe shrugs, leaning forward with his elbows on the table.

“Rafe Cameron turning down a beer, someone should alert the media.” You dramatically gasp, amusement swirling in your eyes as Rafe rolls his.

“Ha ha.” Rafe sarcastically drawls, “I was told it was important for business that I show up.” He murmurs causing you to furrow your brows in confusion. “Yeah, that was my reaction too.” You let out a small giggle at that, and a smile kinked at Rafe’s mouth before he could contain it.

“y/n would love to help with that, wouldn’t you sweetie?” Your mother's voice drags you out of your bubble, the lingering silence causing you to clear your throat.

“Um, help with what?” You ask with an internal wince.

“Wheezie still needs a dress for midsummers and I just don’t have time. I don’t want to leave it to the last minute in case it needs tailoring. Your mom said you could take her with you when you get yours.” Rose explains with a hopeful smile. Relief fills your system – shopping with Wheezie is a piece of cake and since the dress shopping plans you had with Sarah are highly unlikely to happen.

“Oh of course – I’d love that.” You smile turning to Wheezie to see her mirroring your grin.

“You are a lifesaver y/n.” Rose sighs, sitting back in her chair with a glass of wine.

“Make sure you take my card, y/n. Get your dress on it too as a thank you.” Ward adds warmly, nodding to you.

“You really don’t have to.” You try to interject but Ward simply ignores you, already pulling out his wallet and passing his card over to you. “Well, if you insist.” You relent, shooting Wheezie a teasing wink. “So what do you think Wheez, Chanel for midsummers?”

“Y/n.” Your dad warns from the other end of the table, making you shrink slightly as you hold up your hands in surrender.

“Kidding.” You murmur with a sip of your drink, catching Rafe’s eye again as he sends you a smirk.

After everyone's finished their meals, it was you and Rafe on duty to clear the table, you let out a sigh of relief as you step foot into the cool air of the kitchen, the humid Carolina evening making your skin glow and hair stick to the back of your neck.

“Why do they always make us eat outside? I’m going to have a million bug bites.” You huff as you drop the plates off by the sink, gathering your hair into a ponytail in your hand, drawing it away from your sticky skin. You let your head fall forward slightly and eyes close as the cool AC air soothes your sun-warmed skin. 

“He spent the winter redoing the patio, got to show it off.” Rafe drawls as he follows you in. He stops a few steps behind you, taking a moment to eye your already tanned skin, his eyes wander over your body perfectly wrapped in the pale sundress, down your legs to the glimmer of an anklet dangling down to your heeled sandals. His reverie is broken as you let your blown out hair fall back down your back and hop up onto the counter. Rafe clears his throat, attempting to break the spell you seemed to cast over him, but as he passes you he gets hit by the soft cloud of warm amber and coconut. He drops his plates into the sink and haphazardly runs the tap while his eyes crawl back to you, as you seem lost in a daze worlds away from here, your eyes focused on the front door.

“She’s not coming, hasn’t been home in a few days.” Rafe advises, watching your eyes flutter back into focus.

“Yeah, I guessed.” You murmur back, straightening out the skirt of your dress to keep your hands busy.

“She still not talking to you?” Rafe asks with less teasing in his tone than you expected. Your eyes move over to him, eyeing him carefully.

“How did you know?”

“You wouldn’t hang around Topper this much if you had a choice.” He jokes, his usual smirk gracing his features. Your foot darts out pushing him back playfully.

“I have a choice.” You protest, Rafe shoots you a disbelieving look in return. “The other one is just being by myself and that’s depressing.” You continue, pulling a laugh from his chest that brings a smile to your face. You both settle into a comfortable silence as you swing your legs back and forth, not wanting to go back outside, and Rafe turns off the tap.

“She’ll come back around. There’s no way she’s ditching you for some pogues.” Rafe scoffs as he turns to you fully, his arms brushing your knees.

“Seems like she already has.”

[novamiss]

ditched & devoted- when did you get hot?

summary: shopping for a midsummers dress is looking a bit different this year but playing dress up with Wheezie may have been just the pick-me-up you needed - her hot brother may just be an added bonus

pairing: best friend's brother rafe x fem!reader

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words: 2.7k

The sun hadn’t long risen when you woke up on the following Wednesday. The air was just heating up as the Carolina sun reached its peak, throwing out gold and orange rays against the clear blue sky - it was going to be a hot one. A perfect day for shopping on the mainland especially as your usual boutique loved to blast the AC. 

You got ready as usual, adding enough make up to feel prettier while trying on clothes but not enough that you left remnants of your face on them. You threw on a summer dress, something breezy but still up to par for the high-end boutiques you’d be scouring later. You decided to skip breakfast as you could treat yourself and Wheezie to something when you were out, might as well make a whole day of it. You knew dressing up wasn’t Wheezie’s idea of fun so anything you could do to make it a bit better for her, you would. 

It was just past 10am when you got into your little silver convertible to make the short trek to Tanneyhill. You sped past familiar houses of friends, having made this journey enough times you could probably do it blindfolded and definitely could do it blind drunk (as proven on multiple occasions). Your hair flew across your face, the downside of having the roof down but you refused to have it up in summer, needing to make the most of the sun before a storm inevitably rolled in. When you pulled up, you noticed that Ward and Rose’s cars were already gone, likely at work or even more likely at the country club. Pushing your sunglasses up into your hair, you gave the front door a light knock before letting yourself in, old habits did die hard after all, the foyer was empty- the downstairs seemingly vacant of any Cameron life. 

“Wheezieee.” You sing up from the bottom of the stairs.

“I’ll be five minutes.” You could hear her frantically yell back from her room.

You hum to yourself in reply, laughing slightly as you think you hear her trip, knowing you won’t see her for at least another ten. Taking your time, you slowly wander into the kitchen sitting down on one of the bar stools by the island, making yourself comfortable as you pull out your phone when the door to the backyard opens behind you.

You swivel to see Rafe coming in, clearly having just finished his morning swim and distracted as he doesn’t notice you right away, too preoccupied towelling off his short hair. The moment he walks in your eyes follow the water droplets running down his tanned, toned torso, thankful for his distracted state so he doesn’t see you eyeing his arms as they flex with the movement of the towel. It hits you suddenly – since when was Sarah’s brother hot?

You’re pulled from your thoughts when Rafe pulls the towel from his head and drapes it over his shoulder. He stops dead in his tracks when he sees you sat in his kitchen, perched daintily on a bar stool in yet another sundress that drapes across your thighs like it was sewn around you. He recovers quickly, blinking away his initial surprise as you smile sweetly at him.

“Hey...” He greets you, his confusion seeping into his tone as he makes his way further into his kitchen.

“Hey, taking Wheezie dress shopping.” You reply answering his unasked question.

“Right.” He nods recalling the dinner from last week. He reaches the fridge and grabs waters for both of you, sliding yours across the island. “You always dress up this much for shopping?”

“Got to look pretty otherwise all the clothes will look ugly - it’s science Rafe.” You playfully advise with a grin as you accept the bottle.

“You always look pretty.” He drawls, leaning his elbows on the island making himself closer to your eyelevel with a smirk pulling at his mouth. You feel your cheeks heat up at not just his words but also his stare, you watch his eyes drift lower following the pink flush traveling across your face. You drop your chin for a moment to recollect before meeting his eyes again, his smirk just that much deeper.

“I’m not buying your suit too, no matter how many compliments you give me.” You tease, leaning closer to him yourself.

“You’re not even the one buying.” He reminds you.

“You’re right.” You hum. “I’ll get you a Rolex in commiseration. All on daddy’s card.” You wickedly grin as he cringes, wincing away from you and standing tall.

“Don’t ever call Ward daddy - ever again.” He asserts with a grimace pulling a loud laugh from you, he quickly joins you as you nearly slide off of your stool.

“What’s so funny?” Wheezie asks, announcing her entrance making you both pause as the young teen eyes you both suspiciously.

“Your brother’s balding.” You faux gasp as you hop down from your seat and make your way over to Wheezie, closely missing Rafe’s towel as he swings it out to hit you. “And so young too, what shame. Let’s go Wheez.” You quickly link your arm through the teen’s, as you start to see movement from Rafe in your periphery, dragging her out of the house as she giggles alongside you.

The entire drive to the ferry consists of you singing along loudly to your girl pop playlist and Wheezie pretending she’s not enjoying it. The starting notes of a particularly risqué Sabrina Carpenter song filters through your speakers, you squeal attempting to quickly skip it but Wheezie catches your wrist before you can and shouts the lyrics at the top of her lungs making you both erupt into giggles for the rest of the drive.

Once on the ferry you both settle comfortably into a booth, happy to sit with the silence but also occasionally pointing out the different people scattered across the deck; guessing their jobs, their relationships with each other, why they’re not working on a Wednesday. On the mainland, you take Wheezie to your favourite little café buying both of you some breakfast and then an iced coffee for the road that you both leisurely sip as you window shop. Wheezie drags you into random game stores you both excitedly enter the book store before swiftly going into your separate sections – her the comic books and you the new fiction releases. Finally, you have to drag her, with only minimal resistance into the dress boutiques. Your first stop is one you thought she would like, aimed more for young teens but by the bland look on her face she was not feeling the dresses covered in butterflies and glitter. Your second stop was a new attempt to lift her spirits, a store mostly focused on elderly women and you both tried on some ridiculous dresses that looked more like table doilies than clothing and ended at your mid shins. Que the movie montage of you both trying on the ugliest dresses you could find and proceeding to cackle at each other. Afterwards you strolled into the main event, your favourite store, Wheezie’s eyes light up in wonder as she takes in the elegant patterns and sheer amount of colour littering the rails. You’re greeted by one of the workers, their eyes warm with recognition as you all get to work to find the perfect dress.

You all focus on Wheezie first, pulling different dresses from the racks for her to try while she mostly stares in overwhelmed wonder. You direct her to the dressing rooms to start trying some on, just so she can see what styles, colours, patterns she likes. She’s on her fifth dress and you can hear her mumbled complaint thorough the dressing room door before she quietens.

“Wheez, you okay?” You tentatively ask. Silence and Wheezie do not often go hand in hand.

“Yeah.” She quietly replies, so quiet you only just about catch it over the sound of the door unlocking. Wheezie gingerly steps out, not quite making eye contact with you as she stands in front of the mirror in the waiting area. She eyes herself wearily but with a small smile starting to lift at her mouth as she turns gently, letting the skirt of the dress swish lightly at her legs. The dress is deep green with splashes of red, pink and blue making up an abstract floral pattern. It is high at her neck and flows down beautifully with a diagonal hem that goes from her knees to the floor – youthful and playful enough for her age but also showing off that she’s growing, she’s not baby Louisa anymore.

“You look beautiful, Wheezie.”

“Really?” She tests, finally looking you in the eye.

“Really. This one is perfect – do you like it?” You question, wanting to make sure she’s getting it for her – not because you like it, or if Rose and Ward would approve.

“Yeah, I think… I really like it. I feel- pretty.” She decides, giving herself an assured nod as she looks at herself in the mirror.

“Because you are – you always are.” She blushes at you compliment but rolls her eyes all the same.

“Yeah whatever.” She dismisses as she quickly retreats back into the changing room. You breathe out a laugh to yourself as you make your way back to the shop floor – time to find your dress.

Once Wheezie comes back out, dress safely waiting for her behind the counter, she seems to have much more fun picking out dresses for you to try on; some outrageous that your mother would disown you for, others looking more like bridal gowns but you try them on for her-sake, letting her laugh at you or you laugh at her as her jaw drops. You try on a blue, floor length dress that is simple but elegant, one that she picked out, and as she sees you step out she lets out a small squeal.

“That one – you have to pick that one!” She excitedly exclaims, a beaming smile on her face.

“You think?” You ask as you eye yourself in the mirror, turning to see how the dress moves, how your body looks in the different angles and – you look good! Not just good but captivating, the dress accentuating your best features, the colour making your eyes pop and tan glow.

“I think you’re right. Look at you being a stylist, better watch out or I’ll tell Rose you actually enjoyed yourself.” You tease as you walk back to change.

“You wouldn’t dare!” She gasps, playing along. She watches you walk back into the changing room with a knowing look in her eyes. “Rafe is going to lose his mind.” She mumbles to herself.

You finally make it back to Tanneyhill and as you pull up Wheezie is rattling off question after question on how she should do her hair, what colour shoes should she wear, does she need to wear jewellery? Amusement swirls in your eyes as you gently calm her and follow her up to her room so you can help raid her wardrobe.

When Rafe arrives home after his meetings, he smiles as he sees your Porsche parked back along the drive. He waltzes in, drops his keys with a clank by the door but stops as silence welcomes him, seeing no sign of you. He starts up the stairs to his room, ready to wash the humid air from the day off, when he hears the soft tones of your voice floating out of Wheezie’s room, her door slightly ajar. It brings him back to all the times he would come home from school, work, a party to hear you and Sarah laughing and whispering secrets – your melodic laugh and gentle tone more of a soundtrack to his life than he realised until it stopped. 

He peaks through the small gap in the doorway to see his little sister sat in front of her vanity, you stood behind her curling her hair and pinning each section perfectly in place. He watches Wheezie talk enthusiastically about any and all thoughts that come to mind but your eyes are intently focused on her hair, flickering to her in the mirror occasionally with a kind smile, nodding along to whatever she’s saying. Rafe can’t contain the small lift of his mouth as he turns away to leave you guys alone, going back to his room.

“Ta-da.” You say as you step away from the younger girl’s hair, Wheezie stops mid-sentence to take in your masterpiece of an up-do, the girl's curly hair pinned up with small sections gracefully flowing out of it, and the front pieces perfectly framing her face.

“Woah. I am so not going to be able to do this.” She exhales turning her head side to side.

“I’ll take a photo – I’m sure Sarah or Rose can help you.” You assure, resting a hand on her shoulder.

“She’d have to be here to help.” Wheezie scoffs with a small pout.

“You can always call me and I’ll help too.” You advise her gently, not wanting to ruin her good mood.

“Thanks, Y/n. I actually did have fun today.” She bashfully smiles as she turns in her seat to face you.

“I knew it!” You jab pulling the girl into a hug as she whines. “I should get going, but I had fun with you too Wheez.” You add.

You’re down the stairs before you hear a deep voice call your name and you turn to see Rafe coming down the stairs.

“Hey, I didn’t hear you come home.” You greet him, taking a few steps back to the stairs to meet him halfway.

“You guys were busy, didn’t want to interrupt.” He waves off. “Have fun?”

“Yeah, it was really nice.” You beam. “Oh wait.” You pause to rummage through your purse before pulling out Ward’s card. “Here.” You pass it over to Rafe, he takes it before dropping it onto the side table next to him. You roll your eyes at his carelessness. “Well, I could have done that.” He shoots you a smirk in reply.

“So, you going to let me see your dress?” He drawls, his usual boyish air on at full force.

“You want to see my dress?” You blandly ask, knowing he’s never been one to care about that sort of thing.

“Well, you in it, yeah.” He corrects as his smile turns into a roguish smirk.

“Down boy, just have to wait like the rest.” You tease, turning away from him and his flirting- he can’t see that he’s made you blush twice in one day, his ego doesn’t need the inflation. 

“Alright, alright.” He settles, drawing your attention back to him. “What are you er- what are you doing on Saturday?” He questions casually.

“Nothing, why?”

“Thinking of taking the Druthers out, would be nice to have company.” He trails off, looking to you. Rafe subtly brushes his hands against the fabric of his shorts, before pushing them into his pockets.

“Yeah, sounds good, who else is- “ 

“No one. Thought this could just be you and me.” He states simply like he hasn’t sent your mind reeling. Sure, you’ve known the Cameron’s your whole life but the number of times you’ve hung out with just Rafe could be counted in single digits and even fewer were planned. But now that you’re thinking about it, you’re struggling to remember why – why haven’t you spent more time with just Rafe? You’ve always gotten along, he’s always been easy to talk to, someone you’ve divulged your secrets and feelings to without a second thought. You feel yourself nodding before you can think about it.

“Yeah, yeah. That would be fun.” You smile gently, feeling yourself already getting excited.

“Great. I’ll pick you up at your dock.” He grins, letting his hands fall back to his sides as he lets out a relieved breath.

“My dad’s having it extended so it’s out of commission. I can just meet you here.” You advise, stepping backwards towards the door again but this time not taking your eyes off of Rafe.

“Cool - it's a date.”

[novamiss]

ditched & devoted- wasted material

summary: a day of sun, sea and a shirtless Rafe Cameron is all you could need but it starts off on a rocky foot when you finally come face to face with Sarah again, your (ex?) best friend. Rafe is not letting it ruin his one chance with you.

pairing: best friend's brother rafe x fem!reader

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words: 3.7k

It was Saturday. You were going on a date with Rafe Cameron. If someone told you that just a month ago, you would think they’d lost their minds and if someone told your 13-year-old self that, she’d be jumping for joy. You expected to feel nervous, waited for the nausea to trickle into your stomach, to feel the regret wash over you like an early morning wave but it never came. The tides stayed steady and strong. Instead of nervousness, excitement shadowed you in the days since you took Wheezie shopping. You’d already picked out your outfit by Thursday, told Mayci about it on Friday and now it was the day.

The sun was shining bright with only a few clouds lingering in the sky. You awoke to the usual sounds of a chaotic Saturday morning, your parents getting ready for Miles’ soccer game, the click of your mom’s heels; ones that she refused to switch for sneakers no matter how many times they got stuck, the deep tone of your dad’s voice as he called for Miles to hurry up and the stomps of your little brother clambering down the stairs. With the slam of the door, the house was enveloped in silence, a deep sigh of calm settling through the walls as you got up and started to get ready. You’d settled on a butter yellow bikini, molten sunshine clinging to you like a second skin - small enough to catch his attention but not too outrageous, nothing he hasn’t already seen before. You paired it with a light, linen shorts and shirt set and some mini brown sunglasses pushed up into your wavey hair.

Once in your car, butterflies swirl in your stomach as you tighten your grip on the wheel. You let out a deep breath and loosen your hold as you try to tame the flurry– it’s good nerves, the first date excitement, wanting to look cute, wanting him to think you look pretty. You don’t have to be scared, or worried – it’s Rafe. You’ve known him forever; you don’t remember a time before him. You know him explicitly, the good and the bad. And so, you make the familiar journey with a smile on your face, humming along to your usual playlist and when you get to Tanneyhill you don’t hesitate.

Rafe had been getting the boat ready all morning, he’d gotten up earlier than usually for the weekend, when the only sound echoing the halls was Ward starting up the coffee machine. He threw on a pair of basketball shorts and a random t-shirt before he made his way downstairs, he passed his dad in the kitchen grumbling a low “good morning” before making his way to the docks – leaving Ward with a coffee mug in hand and brows raised to his hairline. After an hour, the Druthers was refuelled, tidied and restocked with any drinks and snacks he could remember you liking. 

By the time he got back to the house, Ward and Rose were in the wind so he took his time getting ready – didn’t have to worry about his dad making a comment on the amount of water he was using. He freshened up his shave, before picking out his blue swim trunks and a striped t-shirt and sprayed a generous amount of his Tom Ford cologne – one you’ve complimented him on many times before. As the clock was ticking closer to midday, he felt his chest tighten with an unfamiliar sense of nerves. Rafe had gone on many dates, too many first dates to count but the big difference was, he has never been on a date with you. You, who’s haunted his dreams for as long as he can remember. You who’s always had his back, without question. You who has no trouble calling him out, reminding him when he’s being an asshole. You who’s also soft enough with him to let him change, and to notice it when he does. So that’s why his chest feels tight and his hands have been jittery since Wednesday – he’s waited his whole life for this one shot, and he refuses to mess it up. With a deep breath he grabs some beach towels from the closet and jogs them over to the boat, double checking that everything is in order one more time.

You walk through the front door of Tanneyhill, floating through like summer breeze and lightly call out for Rafe. You’d planned to meet here but when you see no signs of him, you shoot him a text to let him know you’re here, asking if you should meet him by the dock. The creak of the stairs draws your attentions and your head snaps up only to be frozen in place by a familiar blonde.

“Y/n, hey.” Sarah startles, stopping mid step on the staircase.

“Hey.” You hesitantly reply, a tingle of awkwardness making its way down your spine, dampening the flutters that had been running rampant all morning, like a damp towel on a fire.

“What are you doing here? Oh my god – did we have plans? John B’s coming to pick me up.” Sarah rambles as she starts to make her way down the stairs. Irritation prickles at your skin as you listen to her; she’d have to speak to you to make plans, even ones she forgets about. She was once someone who would drop everything for you if you showed up at her door, how could that change in only a matter of weeks?

“Oh no, I’m here for-“ You go to correct Sarah before a deep voice overtakes your own.

“Hey, you ready?” Rafe greets you as he walks through from the kitchen, eyes steady on you, with a lightness in his step. When he takes in your slightly rigid posture and how your eyes darted from the stairs as he walked in, his gaze travels to the steps and he scoffs as he spots his sister.

“You’re here.” He states blandly, making Sarah roll her eyes.

“I’m on my way out.” She retorts with a huff.

“Shocking.” He replies with a sarcastic drawl before he turns his attention back to you. “Ready to go?” Rafe asks you again.

“Yeah, I just wanted to give Wheezie these earrings – I’ll be two minutes.” You say quickly, giving his forearm a squeeze in reassurance as you rush up the stairs, not wanting to keep him waiting. You breeze past Sarah, shooting her a short smile before you disappear up the stairs. Rafe’s breath stutters for a moment at your warm, comforting touch and as your fresh, beachy scent lingers in your wake.

“What are you two doing?” Sarah questions as she stops in front of her brother, crossing her arms across her chest. Rafe lets out a huff, as if he’s already tired of this conversation.

“Going out on Druthers.” He dryly offers.

“Just you two?” She asks, her eyebrows furrowing and Rafe watches as disdain clouds her face.

“Yes, Sarah.” He drones, hoping his short answers will annoy her enough to leave – he isn’t quite so lucky.

“Why?” She demands, her arms tightening around her body.

“Why not?” Rafe shrugs, looking back to the stairs hoping you’ll appear.

“You’re not friends.” Sarah argues, narrowing her eyes at her brother – her distrust blatantly obvious.

“Well, I’m not trying to be her friend.” He turns back to look his sister in the eye, letting a small, boyish smirk work its way across his face as he watches her get more annoyed.

“Rafe, I told you- “

“No.” He swiftly interrupts. “You don’t get to tell me shit about her anymore.” He reprimands in a harsh, whispered tone as he hears your steps once again.

“I- “

“Okay, ready now.” You beam as you rush back down the stairs. Rafe quickly puts a smile back on his face, turning his back to the blonde.

“Let’s go.” He gently takes your hand, shocking you slightly, as he pulls you into the kitchen and away from where Sarah still stands wordlessly. You feel the urge to glance back at Sarah, to see if she’s upset, if she even cares but you keep your head staring straight and instead chance a glimpse up at Rafe. He keeps his hand still loosely holding yours, as you peer up at him and watch him attempt to school his expression.

“That was… frosty.” You try, his head darts to you and his blue’s meets yours and his shoulders unwind.

“Sorry, I didn’t know she was here.” He softens, giving your hand a light squeeze.

“No, no it’s fine. You guys just seemed kind of tense when I came back.” You gently pry.

“It was nothing.” He dismisses but he catches your slight frown so he quickly adds. “It’s just the usual with me and Sarah- nothing to worry about.” He flashes you a grin that quickly melts away any of your concerns and brings you back to the moment.

Rafe leads you down to their dock and as you step foot onto the wooden slates, he intertwines your fingers and shoots you a smile, like he knows the effect he has on you – that he hopes he has on you. He holds your joint hands up, supporting you as you hop onto the Cameron’s yacht, and he makes quick work of untying the mooring lines. He jumps onto the boat behind you, and gently places his hands on your waist from behind to usher you to the helm. Your senses are overrun by his presence; his strong, warm hands encompassing your waist, his signature scent of vanilla, tobacco and spice, his broad chest pressing into your back. You feel your cheeks pinken and you thank your lucky stars, he can’t see your flustered state. He slides his hands from you as you enter the cabin and he makes his way to the steering wheel.

As familiar with it as riding a bike, Rafe effortlessly sails you away from the house and deeper into the water. With no real destination in mind, you make mindless, idle chit chat as he decides where to moor for the day. As you talk, the sun is blazing down on you both, causing you to slide your own glasses down from your hair and look over to see Rafe squinting against the sun, sweat beginning to bead at his brow. He is too focused on steering to pay it any mind, so you grab the sunglasses that are hooked into the collar of his t-shirt and place them on his face, he sends you a beaming smile in thanks and struggles to pull his focus back to the water. As you get more comfortable and the sun rises further, you shrug your oversized shirt off of your shoulders, draping it across the couch, leaving you in your bikini top and shorts. When you turn back to him, you catch Rafe eyeing you. You bite your cheek to try and stifle your smile as you quirk a brow at him when his eyes stay firmly on your form. He sends you another smile as he rubs his hand against the back of his neck, his t-shirt straining against his biceps. 

“You want a go?” Rafe asks, nodding towards the steering wheel, swiftly changing topics from his ogling.

“No, I’m good just watching.” You tease, pulling a light laugh from him as he nods in acceptance. He gleams under your attention as he can feel your eyes on him instead of the island – it is not often that you are alone together, there’s always another friend, another family member and he’s held on to every moment he can with you but now he’s been gifted your undivided attention, and he's not going to waste it.

He manages to steel his focus on the water, until he’s reached his set spot, the one he knows gets the best view of the sunset and drops the anchor – ready to enjoy the rest of the day with you. Just you. 

He guides you out onto the deck, where you are stunned to see your usual chair, the one you shotgun whenever you and Sarah or your larger group of friends go out on the boat, is already set up with a beach towel and bottle of water, and another chair mirrored beside it.

“Had it all planned out, huh?” You grin at him as he stops at your side.

“Yeah, what’d you think this was?” He smirks, nudging you over to your spot. 

You both get comfortable, stripping off until you are just in your swimwear and lay out on the perfectly placed sun-beds. Rafe sits himself up slightly, resting up on his elbows, body turned towards you.

“Is this weird for you?” He asks, removing his sunglasses so he can see you clearer.

“What?” You ask, mimicking his position, your body slightly tilted in his direction.

“This.” He gestures to you both.

“You know, it’s kind of weird how normal this feels.” You admit, pushing your sunglasses into your hair again so you can meet his eye. “I guess I didn’t notice how flirty you were with me, because this feels pretty normal.” You teasingly add, making him smile.

“Doing some of my best work and it was wasted on you.” He jests with a scoff.

“Half the island would kill me if they knew.” You play along but Rafe only shakes his head.

“Nah, this is just for you.” He states like it’s simple, as he lays back on his towel. Like he hasn’t just taken your breath away.

And the rest of the day is just that, it’s simple but breath-taking. You lay out in the sun, for probably too long, just talking about anything and everything. You never have to worry about awkward pauses or tense tremors in conversation and when you get hungry, Rafe brings out an assortment of fruit and snacks he’d stocked away. A laugh or a smile is stuck to your face all day, your cheeks rosy pink from both the bliss of the day and the summer rays, but the glow? That’s all Rafe. 

He hasn’t been able to draw his eyes away, from your radiant smile, your soft, plump lips, the glimmer of happiness echoed in your own eyes, from the stretch of your torso as you lay out on the towel, skin already sun-kissed and freckled. He wants to trace every line, every freckle, memorise every crevice until he can recognise you in the dark. He wonders if your lips are as soft as they look, what they’ll feel like pressed against his own, how they’d taste, how’d you’d sound gasping against his mouth. He wants you unconditionally, and that has never happened to him before – he’s never felt this way. And it should scare him but when he looks at you, as your throw your head back laughing, he can’t find it in himself to be anything but happy.

“What are your plans for the rest of the break?” Rafe asks as he grabs a grape from the bunch, now sat upright and facing you.

“Not a lot – mostly hanging with the group. I basically want to be out of the house as much as possible.” You shrug. “Topper and Kelce were trying to get me and Mayci on the green so.” You trail off, looking back to him.

“Going to be a golf girl, huh?” He asks in a goading tease.

“More like a sit-in-the-cart girl but sure- if it will get them to shut up about it.” You roll your eyes playfully, smiling when you hear a huff of amusement escape him.

“How about we go? I can see how good your swing is.” He offers, miming a golf swing for effect.

“Please – You want to see how short my skirt is.” You retort with a scoff.

“Woah, I didn’t know there were skirts involved – but now that you mention it.” He lets his voice teeter off as he leans over to you, making you push at his chest with a slight giggle. He takes the opportunity to pull you next to him so you’re both sat on the same sun lounger, now facing each other as you sit cross-legged. 

“Kelce only wants us to go because he’s trying it on with Mayci.” You share, fiddling with the strings of your bikini to occupy your hands.

“What happened to Becca?” He inquires, taking one of your hands in his and mindlessly playing with your fingers.

“That flatlined real fast.” You shake your head. “See all the fun you miss when you’re being a big businessman.” You add in a tempting tone nudging him gently with your knee.

“One of the few good things about it.” He huffs in return.

“You mean that?”

“I mean… it’s just a lot of pressure.” He hesitates for a second, momentarily unsure if he should share more but when he sees your face so open and willing to listen, he can’t help but carry on. “Trying to live up to everyone’s expectations and prove myself. They all still look at me like I'm that 17-year-old that screws everything up. It’s harder than I thought I’d be.”

“I’m sure that’s not true.” You try to argue but he stops you with a flat look. “No, I mean – the pressure yes, but you’re not a screw up and you never were. You were just figuring things out, if you can’t do that as a teenager, when are you supposed to? Sure, you may have made a few more mistakes, but we also have a hell of a lot more stuff at our disposal and not a lot of supervision, what do they expect us to do? Not throw parties in mansions and get drunk? Sounds kind of lame to me.” You reason, pulling his hand into your lap when you see his eyes flicker away from yours. You never want him to feel like he has to hide this from you, to feel ashamed - not for being a reckless kid, especially when he’s grown from it.

“Probably shouldn’t have driven my bike into Topper’s pool.” He winces making you let out an uncontrollable giggle at the memory – the soaked dresses, Topper’s pure joy turning into horror as he watched the pool tiles crumble like sand.

“No, but it definitely made for a good story.” You surmise, letting out another giggle before you calm. “You have changed though.” You add for good measure, meeting his earnest gaze.

“Yeah?” He bashfully asks. “That a good thing?”

“It’s not that you were bad before it’s just- I don’t know. You don’t seem as angry. I mean, if Sarah tried to date a Pogue as few years ago, he’d already be 6 feet under.” You point out.

“Alright, alright.” He drawls, slightly pulling away from you in jest.

“I’m kidding – kind of.” You wink, pulling him back towards you, missing his warmth.

“Yeah, well- turns out coke is bad for you.” He dryly retorts.

“You know, I have heard that somewhere.” You teasingly add is a faux thoughtful tone. You let the playful moment linger for a moment before interlinking your fingers with his. “I’m proud of you Rafe, really.” For a moment he’s taken aback, eyes flickering to meet your warm gaze and he feels the heat crawl up his neck making him duck his head slightly as he gives your hand a tight squeeze.

“Thanks.”

The sun begins to set along the horizon, painting the sky in a swirl of watercolour pinks and purples. The air starts to cool as the breeze carries the chill of the water causing goosebumps to rise across your skin. Rafe drifts back inside the cabin and emerges with a hoodie in hand, he holds it out to you and you accept it with a blushing smile. The fabric is a light grey and as soft as the blankets that lay scattered across your bed, you can already smell his cologne on it, probably woven into the threads from how often he wears it. You pull it on and he helps you tug it over your head, your vision momentarily clouded grey. When your head pops back out, you are greeted by his wide grin and his soft laugh as your hair scatters across your face. You finish pulling it down the rest of your body, his gaze lingering, watching as his hoodie swallows your figure, falling down until it stops at your thigh. When he meets your eye again, he gently brushes your hair back out of your face and out from under his hoodie. His hands pause, hesitating to fully draw away from you. You can see it in his eyes when he makes the decision, his hands moving to the joint of your neck, his thumbs gently tracing the line of your jaw. 

“This okay?” He asks in a voice close to a whisper. You nod gently, eyes not daring to leave his. He can feel your pulse pick up, feels the way you harshly swallow and the pink start to brush across your cheeks. He grins as he starts to lean in and your breath stutters. He stops a breath away from your barely parted lips, so close that as he moves his mouth to speak, you can feel the shadow of his lips grace yours.

“This?” he asks again in the same whisper, this one mixed with a slight tease. He might as well have shouted it as all you can see, feel, smell is him. Rafe. Rafe. Rafe.

Instead of answering him, you tilt your face up and stretch up onto your toes, capturing his lips with your own in a gentle kiss. You place your hands on his waist for balance and you can feel his moment of shock, before his grip on your face fastens and he draws you in closer. Your hands press firmly into his stomach grappling for the solidity to remind you that this is real, this is really happening. You let your fingers slide up his abs, feeling them clench at your touch, exploring up his chest and over his shoulders as he pulls you closer until your chests are pressed together, his lips never parting from yours. Your arms wrap around his neck, not letting him stray as the kiss deepens and his hands fist the material of your hoodie at your waist – at his hoodie, bunching it up until his hand lands on your bare waist. You pull apart slowly, taking a moment to breathe as he rests his forehead on yours. His hands clench on your waist as your eyes flutter open and he murmurs out softly.

“Fuck.”

[novamiss]

ditched & devoted

summary: when sarah ditches her lifelong best friend for the pogues, rafe lets his soft spot for her shine through and as they get closer, he doesn’t know how anyone could ever let her go

pairing: best friend's brother rafe x fem!reader

warnings: none (yet idk)

ghosted

when did you get hot?

wasted material

you need to calm down

[novamiss]

ditched & devoted- you need to calm down

summary: reeling after your date with Rafe Cameron, you're swiftly reminded that real life is not a love story & you have what should be an easy breezy day out... but you somehow end up on a date with Topper??

pairing: best friend's brother rafe x fem!reader

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words: 4.2k

a/n: damn if you're still here thank you so much & I'm so sorry it took so long. Writer block has made me hate this one but think it's v needed for background & knowing kook girlies mindset. Get ready for some Pogues in the next one...

On your way home you felt like you were floating - head in the clouds, dumbstruck smile glued to your face, kind of happy that you know your friends would tease you for but honestly, you couldn’t find it in yourself to be embarrassed. You could still feel the ghost of his lips on yours and the warm tingly feeling they left behind. Your skin felt scorched from where his hands had travelled, branding you as his own. But you weren’t his, he had kissed you like you were, held you like you were and damn did you want to be but it was too fast, too much. Last week he was just Sarah’s brother and now you were imagining walking into parties together hand in hand, him introducing you to his colleagues as his girlfriend – yeah, you needed to calm down. It was one date, one kiss… one make-out, it did not mean a relationship. You didn’t even usually kiss guys on the first date – your go-to was to leave them hanging a little, leave them wondering and craving but then he leaned in. You just couldn’t help it - you had Rafe Cameron in all his 6-foot, tanned, sculpted glory at your fingertips, you couldn’t not reach out. 

Although, it could get messy – Sarah’s face flashes across your mind as you remember how she looked as you walked away from her, towards her brother instead. Messy was putting it lightly. Still, you let yourself revel in the post-date glow, you can worry about the rest of it tomorrow when you get an onslaught of texts from your friends asking about it but now, now you want to linger in it. 

That doesn’t last long.

You pull your car into your usual spot on the driveway, darkness draping over your house like it’s been tucked into bed. With every step you take, lights flash on, guiding you to your front door where you can already hear the yelling. Your post-date bubble is swiftly popped as you crash back onto earth and let your head fall forward onto the door. Your parent’s voices reverberate through the wood, crashing into the walls of your home, painting them in anger and bitterness. With a sigh you straighten yourself out and unlock the door, stepping in softly in the hopes that you can go unnoticed. For once the yelling works in your favour as they are too caught up in themselves to notice you, so you dart up the stairs and seek sanctuary in your room, thankful that your little brother was at a sleepover. The yelling is the soundtrack for you as you get ready for bed and it quietens before you drift off to a restless sleep. 

The shouts of your parents echo in your dreams, reminding you of what’s real – relationships aren’t dates on yachts, searing kisses at sunset and holding hands on the beach. They’re love turned bitter and cold, one full of quiet resentment, secrets and faux smiles. But that can only last so long- money and reputation can only outweigh the sour taste of betrayal for so long and as their fights get louder and more frequent the rest of Figure Eight are bound to find out the truth about the ‘perfect kook family’ sooner or later.

The next day your phone was going off nonstop, the girls group chat pinging off questions about your date with Rafe, you answered most, leaving only some of the details out. You could basically hear their shock and confusion in their messages by how sweet Rafe had been – to them he was Sarah’s intimidating, sometimes scary, older brother, sweetness wasn’t synonymous with Rafe Cameron, at least not to them. You keep to yourself, cocooning yourself in your room for most of the day and only sneaking out to get snacks – your balcony keeps you from going stir crazy. The air of the house too suffocating and stagnant with unasked questions and false pretences to live in, but your mood was too low to leave the house completely. You needed a day to settle and recover, you were usually pretty good at playing dress up and putting on a pretty, fake smile but today you were just too tired.

By Monday you’re feeling better, your parents are already gone by the time you wake up and the summer sun is sparkling in through the gap in your curtains. You leisurely make yourself breakfast and lounge on your couch with no plans for the day when your front door swings open, making your stomach drop.

“Oh perfect, you’re already up.” Mayci beams when she spots you clutching your chest on the sofa. She bounces over to you and grabs both of your arms, hauling you up as you remain in a state of shock.

“I think I’m having a heart attack.” You murmur as she leads you to the stairs. She merely scoffs in response.

“Big baby.” She mutters. 

“Why are you here?” You finally ask as she pulls you into your own room. You sit comfortably on your bed leaning back on your hands as she beelines straight to your closet.

“We’re going golfing with Kelce and Topper. Remember?” She sing-songs as you hear her riffling through your clothes. You groan in response and fling yourself back. Only now do you notice her outfit. She looks like the cover of a woman’s health magazine; her long, copper hair tied back into a ponytail, olive green, athletics dress swishing around her thighs as she darts around your closet, the pristine white socks and trainers basically sparkling.

“But I don’t want to hang out with Kelce and Topper.” You whine. “And I’m going to get stuck with Thornton because Kelce is obsessed with you.” You point out.

“Not true!” Mayci argues from inside your closet, you catch her eyes through a mirror and give her a flat look. “Okay, kind of true.” She gives in with a smug grin. “I’m sorry, it’s not my fault your boyfriend actually has a job.”

“Not my boyfriend.” You murmur.

“Okay, fine.” She gives in with a dramatic sigh. “Husband, whatever.” She adds, cackling as you let out a squeal of protest and launch a pillow at her. 

“Why don’t you bring one of the other girls, or Ruthie! She’d love to spend the day with Topper.” You counter with a slight giggle.

“Yes, but I will jump in front of a golf cart if I have to spend the day with her so… no.” Mayci deadpans as she emerges with a handful of dresses. “Please, please, please come with me. It’ll be fun, I swear, and look how cute the outfits are.” You eye her as your defence starts to crumble, she can see a smile threatening to break across your face so she plasters on a saccharine grin. “And I promise to keep the flirting to a minimum.” She adds, holding out her hand in scout’s honour.

“No, you don’t.” You sigh as you stand, holding your hand out to accept the clothes and accepting your fate for the day.

“No, I don’t.” She agrees with a giggle.

You swiftly pick out the white halter neck dress from her selection, showing it off with a quick spin, earning a cheer from the both of you for the built-in shorts with side pockets under the skirt of the dress. You pair it with the green and white adidas trainers Mayci throws in your direction. You both stumble into your garage to find the golf clubs your dad had gotten you for Christmas a couple years ago, you find them behind boxes of Christmas lights and lightly pat the dust off before you are on your way to the country club in Mayci’s Mercedes.

Kelce and Topper are already there when you pull up lingering at the front. They’re joking around but when Kelce notices the car he straightens up and Topper snickers at him. As you step out, you swear you see Kelce’s eyes widen and hearts start swirling around his head making you shake your head and you scoff as you catch Mayci’s smug smirk.

“Can you help with our stuff?” Mayci calls over as she opens her trunk.

“Y-yeah – of course.” Kelce replies, clearing his throat.

The course is surprisingly empty, only a few groups can be seen in the distance giving your group time to linger and joke around.

“God, it looks like a freaking double date.” You grumble from your spot in between Topper and Mayci, watching Kelce set up his shot. “Ruthie is going to skin me alive.” 

“Shut up.” Topper elbows you jokingly. “And don’t say date so loud, if Rafe hears that he’ll beat my ass.” He adds, looking around for dramatic flair.

“Who’s going to tell him? His minions are all right here.” You play along, gesturing to Topper and Kelce.

“Who you calling a minion?” Kelce calls over playful anger.

“If the overalls fit.” Mayci sing songs.

“Now I regret inviting him, doesn’t help the image.” Kelce replies as he walks back over to you all waiting by the cart.

“Rafe’s coming?” You ask, your interest peaked – he hadn’t mentioned anything to you about it.

“Maybe – he said he had some meetings but might meet us here later.” Topper shrugs.

“Did you tell him y/n was here?” Mayci teases with a laugh, nudging you. The guys share a glance before looking at you in with confusion.

“Yeah… why’d he care about that?” Topper hesitantly asks.

“Okay. Rude.” Mayci mumbles.

“Not like that.” Topper quickly corrects.

“Because they’re dating- duh.” Mayci says it like she’s talking to a 5-year-old. Your stomach drops as you take in their confused and shocked expressions. They had no idea. You had texted your group chat the night he had asked you on a date and his closest friends don’t even know and worse, they’re shocked by it.

“Wait, what?” Kelce exclaims.

“We’re not dating. It was a date.” You clarify, feeling the need to minimise it – maybe it wasn’t a big deal, maybe it was just a date.

“Are you going on another one?” Mayci asks, trying to prove her point.

“I think so.” You shrug, somewhat uneasily now.

“Dating.” She finalises with a nod. The conversation finally catches up to her and you see the realisation dawn on her as her head whips back to the guys. “Wait, you guys didn’t know?” 

“No, I-“ Kelce attempts to explain but Mayci is already on a roll, her attention already on Topper.

“But why did you mention him earlier then?” She asks.

“I was messing around. He’s always had like… a thing about you. I thought he was just like protective or something because of Sarah but damn.” He explains as he raises his hands in surrender to her intense questioning. 

You start to play with the bottom of your skirt, straightening out non-existent creases as your thoughts run wild. They thought he was protective of you because of Sarah, his sister. They thought he thought of you like a sister? Now you were feeling a bit nauseous. Mayci turns to you to express her shock but she notices your fidgeting hands and tight smile so she easily turns back to the guys.

“Okay ladies.” She claps her hands together. “Enough chatter let’s get back to golf okay.” She sends you a discreet smile as the guys swiftly move on from the conversation, not giving it another thought – if only you were as lucky.

You were a secret.

Was he embarrassed? Was it some joke and you were the punchline for it? It felt so real on the yacht, he made you feel safe and warm and cared for… maybe it was pity. He felt bad watching you mope around at family dinners, looking lost at the door waiting for your best friend – it was a sympathy date. Then why did he kiss you like he meant it?

You’re dragged out of your downward spiral when Kelce cackles at Mayci’s poor swing, nearly taking him out with it as he attempted to guide her. You need to focus on today – get out of your head. So, you throw yourself into the light atmosphere, racing carts with Topper against the other pair, sipping spritzes as the sun blazes down on you and Mayci lounging in the carts as the guys argue over whose got a better form. You let your worries wash down the drain and it works until they all come flooding back as you watch none other than Rafe Cameron saunter over.

Topper, Kelce and Mayci are over by your carts changing out irons when he approaches them. You watch from the drinks cart as he daps up the guys, smiling as he greets them and nods politely to Mayci. His eyes flicker, not really listening as the guys start to recap the day, he nods along like he’s interested but his mind is set on you. You scrape your focus away from him as the cart girl asks you what you want, and thankful for the interruption, you start a mindless conversation with her about the day, the weather, her shoes – whatever you can. It’s all working until you feel the sun dim and a warm hand gently graces your waist. You don’t need to look, you already know who it is before his cologne hits - he’d burnt his handprint into you days before.

“Hey.” Rafe whispers, ducking down so his mouth is nearly grazing your ear and he gives your waist a squeeze in greeting. “You were right, I do like your short skirt.” You can hear the smile in his voice which now sounds more mocking than sweet.

“Hi.” You mutter back tightly as you shrug out of his hold, he’s barely even touching you but it’s still too overwhelming. In return he holds his hands up in surrender.

“Too much?” He asks with a slight wince thinking he was coming on too strong after just one date but who can blame the guy- he was just excited to see you. But you’re too in your head to see it. You realise you’ve missed something as he just patiently looks to you so you shake your head, trying to clear the fog.

“Huh?” You ask. Thankfully you’re interrupted by the cart girl and you thank her with a polite smile as she hands you your drink and Rafe is already tapping his card against the machine before you can blink. “I had it.” You argue as you turn to face him but he merely shrugs like it’s no big deal. And he’s right. It’s not a big deal – he’s paid for your drinks hundreds of times; it doesn’t mean anything. None of it does.

You go to step away, to return to the safety net of your friends but he easily blocks your path placing a gentle hand on your shoulder as he ducks his head to catch your eye. Confusion drapes his face as he studies you, he knows you too well, has known you too long to not see that you’re upset.

 “You good?” He asks, his worry seeping into every syllable. 

“Yeah, yeah of course- I’m fine.” You dismiss with a faint smile. It’s not Rafe’s fault you’re in your head. It’s not his fault that your feelings got ahead of yourself.

“Wow I’m convinced.” He replies in a sarcastic drawl, which pulls a small smile from you, amusement glimmering faintly in your eyes against your will.

“I’m okay, just a bit spacey today.” You reassure, placing a placating hand on his forearm as you both start walking back over to your friends.

“Golf that boring, huh?” He asks, returning lightness to the conversation.

“It’s not the most fun sport I’ve ever played.” Rafe grins over at you, sliding his hands into his pockets to keep them off of you, all he wants is to grasp your hand in his but reminds himself to keep his distance, he doesn’t want to overwhelm you or overstep.

“You were right though.” You shoot him a questioning look. “I do like the skirt.” He repeats from earlier, wanting to make sure you actually hear his compliment this time, even as his tone is full of tease.

“I knew it.” You triumphant say, your grin widening and bumping him lightly with your shoulder. 

From across the green Topper, Kelce and Mayci are keeping a watchful eye on you two; Topper and Kelce analysing your every move and Mayci with an affectionate smile.

“See they don’t look all flirty.” Topper exclaims as he points at the two of you as you bump Rafe with your shoulder, going back to walking next to each other with some distance between you. 

“They’re not even touching.” Kelce comments in a conspiratorially whisper.

“Because you got her all in her head, doofus.” Mayci rolls her eyes at the pair ending with a glare.

Rafe notices your friends’ watchful gaze and gently stops you before you get too close to them- before you get within hearing distance. His hold on your wrist is loose but it’s the tenderness that gives you pause. He hesitates for a moment before he asks, “Did I do something? Did you not like the other night because it felt like you did?”

“No, it’s not that.” You shake your head emphatically.

“But it is something.” He notes, trying to track your eyes to get a read on you.

“I just- I just got in my head. It’s fine, don’t worry about it.”

“About me? Come on y/n, talk to me. I thought we were good.”

“We are, it’s fine.” You offer him a smile, entirely unconvincing as you’re even annoying yourself at this point, you take a deep breath and mildly squeeze his wrist as he lets you walk away. His eyes stay on you, not at all satisfied. His eyes map you trying to figure out what’s wrong when he sees Topper’s eyes dart over to you flickering between you and Rafe. He can see the worry and maybe… guilt (or at least Topper’s version of guilt) in his eyes from here, making Rafe’s blue eyes squint in suspicion– he should have known those idiots said something to you.

You both return to the group and agree to carry on for two more holes before going back to the clubhouse. You sit in the passenger seat of your golf cart as Topper shoves his club back into his bag and goes to get back into the driver’s seat but is stopped by a firm hand on his shoulder. Topper pauses and looks back to see Rafe with a smirk on his face as he pulls him back and pushes him towards Kelce’s cart that holds a giggling Mayci as she watches the scene unfold.

“But it’s my cart.” Topper weakly argues gesturing to where you sit.

“Not anymore.” Rafe dismisses with a grin as he sits down next to you and pulls down his sunglasses. Amusement colours your features as you eye Rafe and merely shrug at Topper when you glance back at him before Rafe takes off. Topper quickly scurries over to Kelce’s cart before he’s left behind.

The group carries on golfing for another hour, filling the time with light-hearted jokes and teasing – the guys taking it all way too seriously and you and Mayci just trying to get through without disappointing your self-appointed coaches (Kelce and Topper) too much. You get back to the clubhouse around mid-afternoon and grab your usual table out on the veranda for a late lunch. You sit across from Mayci, both of you quickly getting wrapped up in making more plans for the summer, Rafe sits at your side opposite Kelce with Topper taking the head of the table with the sinking realisation he is officially fifth wheeling. At the thought, his eyes wander back to you before darting back to Rafe trying to see what he had missed, and in doing so, he catches Rafe’s gaze roaming your figure, fighting back a smile at your laugh before he returns to his conversation with Kelce, all without missing a beat. Topper may have really fucked up.

Throughout the lunch, Rafe feels the guys’ eyes lingering on him with you at his side, he notices them side-eyeing each other attempting to communicate without words and after an hour he’s had enough.

“Let’s grab another round.” Rafe announces rising from his seat, clapping Topper on the back. Topper stands and Kelce starts to lean back in his chair before Rafe makes him pause. “You too.” He nods his head towards the bar. He leaves no room for argument as he’s already halfway across the room causing Kelce to stumble to his feet.

“Be right back ladies.” Kelce grins as he walks backwards towards the bar, holding Mayci’s eye as he winks at her.

“Please take your time.” You sarcastically beg, he flips you the finger as he finally turns around to fully walk away.

Once reconvened at the bar, away from lingering ears, Rafe rounds on the pair. “Alright, what did you idiots do?” He asks, keeping his voice down as he leans against the bar top.

“Us?” Topper indignantly exclaims, pointing to himself and Kelce.

“Yes. You.” Rafe teasingly sneers.

“Nothing, we didn’t-“ Topper attempts to save themselves but is cut off by Kelce sucking in a breath and slightly cringing. 

“No, we might have messed it up for you.” Kelce concedes. Rafe simply stares at him waiting for him to continue, feeling his irritation grow but gritting his teeth to keep it tempered. 

“No-not messed it up but maybe just a little hiccup.” Topper attempts to soothe.

“We didn’t know you went on a date with her o-or even liked her like that so when Mace mentioned it, we were shocked, you know?” Kelce explains with a slight stutter, feeling flustered under Rafe’s intense gaze.

“Jesus Christ.” Rafe mutter as he roughly rubs his hand down his face.

“Not shocked but like surprised. Not in a bad way. Just we didn’t know.” Topper continues, his voice slowly fading out towards the end.

“What did you say?” Rafe asks through gritted teeth. 

“Just that we didn’t know.” Topper states, in an attempt to placate him.

“And that we thought you only were nice to her because of Sarah.” Kelce adds

“Dude.” Topper whispers in betrayal to Kelce.

“Fucking morons.” Rafe mutters as their drinks are placed in front of them, he thanks the bartender as he grabs your drink and his before making his way back to the table. Topper and Kelce lag for a minute before quickly following suit.

“Here you go.” Rafe murmurs as he places your spritz in front of you before gently grazing his palm between your shoulder blades. He leans down to press a sweet kiss to your temple as he settles back into his seat. Shock takes over your features at his gentle gesture and he notes your widened eyes, he keeps his eyes on you as his arm remains draped across the back of your chair, thumb sweeping soothing circles across your shoulder.

“Thanks.” You whisper back to him sending him a smile that makes his heart stutter, one so full of surprise and wonder he can’t help but mirror it back to you. All while Mayci grins at you both like she’s watching her favourite romcom unfold right before her eyes.

After lunch, your groups mindless chatter is interrupted by Mayci’s phone vibrating against the table, her eyes light up as she reads the message.

“Bonfire party down at the beach tonight.” She announces to the table with a playful smirk. Topper and Kelce whoop like frat boys and lean into each other already discussing pre-gaming plans. Mayci leans across the table to you grasping your hands in her own. “You’re coming.” She states – no room for disagreement.

“Oh, if I must.” You playfully concede, mirroring her smirk before looking over to Rafe, raising a brow to him in question. He lets a smile take over his face as he leans further back into his chair, giving you his full attention.

“What time should I pick you up?” He asks, arm still across the back of your chair. His question makes you straighten in your seat.

“Oh, you don’t have to pick me up.” You try to dismiss him but he remains unfazed.

“I know.” He lets that settle before adding, “I want to.” His eyes hold onto yours to make sure you know he means it, attempting to quell any doubts that have been festering in your mind caused by his idiot friends. You nod your head back at him, keeping his gaze and letting your mind calm in his presence. This is real – this feeling he gives you and the way he looks at you, the way he considers you. This is real. Not the fear, not the doubt. If only your mind could bask in it and shut out all the noise, but you’ve had years of raised voices and slamming doors, you know better than most that not all noise can be silenced that easily.

taglist: @kissesandmartinis @amterasuu @braincellfugitive @gf4lwt @bookworm-ana @silkylovey @pytbae @rafeswfnd @rohjeafvx @toterry @bunnygothprincess @tul1preads @sebbystans1fan16 @samwinchesterisawhore @liyahh-xoxo @berryonasummerevening @vanessa-rafesgirl @kgfangirl @sunsetmade @arigoldsblog @raferabbithole @melsunshine @drewslefttoe @im-a-mirrorball @66trentxo @dsfault @rorywright @popesbby @xxxkat3xxx @glossyhex @moonywhisp3rs @hotch-meeeeeuppppp @gracelovesethan @ziyahs-world @sunkissed-soullll @anilovessadbooks

[novamiss]

not me having to google boat terms for the next chapter😭

should have had them date at a bar gd

[novamiss]

just so you all know, I love a he fell first and harder trope - we need more men who yearn !!