ex!rafe who lets you to say to everyone that you chose the break up, because he knows how much you need the validation knowing you ended it when you both agreed it was mutual
ex!rafe who still drives past your house everyday, making sure the lights are off at 12pm so that you’re sleeping well. and if they’re not, then you’re certain a text will be sent
R : go to sleep
you: ??
R : sleep, baby
ex!rafe doesn’t change your nick name from what it was in his contacts even months after you two promise you’re over. as soon as you send a message to him, he replies instantly.
ex!rafe who never, not once, even looks at another girl. topper and kelce try constantly to convince him there are “more fish in the sea”, but rafe just shakes his head. “i don’t want other fish.”
ex!rafe whos always by your side at parties, never touching you without your consent but always there in time when you’re too drunk and slurring words. and rafe who takes you home as soon as he knows you’ve gone past your intolerance, saying kind words to your parents so they won’t scold you as much as they would if he hadn’t given an explanation
ex!rafe who doesn’t care how you call him your “boy best friend”. everyone has eyes can see the way you two look at each other, and whatever it is, it definitely isn’t platonic.
ex!rafe who pretends not to get jealous over how close you are with the pogues, especially the boys, but he doesn’t want to act like an over territorial animal so whenever you two hang out he just kisses your temple and rests his forehead against your hair.
ex!rafe who, when everything is quiet, looks over the photos of you two dating in his camera roll. he has a whole album with just pictures of you, and sometimes he’ll sneak one cute one without you looking.
ex!rafe who knows you love him, that the breakup wasn’t casual. it’s why he dismissed all you snarky comments whenever it’s bought up. he knows you, better than anyone.
ex!rafe who knows that no matter how many times you break up with him, you’ll always get back together. of that he’s certain.
ik everyone like wholesome dad rafe but i think he carries too much of his childhood trauma for that. he tries to be a good dad of course but your his wife before your the woman of his kids, so when the oldest triggers him by going after you he loses all composure.
angst & fluff
a/n: i have like three versions of this but i think this is the best😭
-
When your oldest son's school calls you threatening him for suspension and letting you know he's been detained there's not much you can do but call your husband and hesitantly relay everything the school told you.
He picks up on the first ring and as you start going into detail, with worry in your tone you could tell he was trying to not be so reactive to prompt you into telling him everything. He takes a deep breath before saying, "I'll handle it, I'm handling it." You can hear him biting back irritation, what sounds like him rummaging around his office, and soon the roar of his truck starting. "I'm gonna kill him." he mutters under his breath.
"Rafe" You sigh with a warning tone, aware of the difference between your husband and yourself. The two of you agree to wait until you can talk to him together, undermining each other is something you guys try to avoid, but with polar opposite parenting styles it's hard not to.
Your oldest son had been in fight, detained, suspended from school, broke a nose, and has pending charges. You would've never expected this from him in a million years, your baby boy following in footsteps that are eerily familiar.
Within the next hour they both pull into the driveway, walking through the door together and Rafe is immediately on ten. "Take his keys" he says looking at you, "Grounded" he says pointing back at him.
You don't even get a chance to say anything before your son walks up to the kitchen island where you're standing and carelessly tosses down his car keys.
"You wanna tell us what happened?" Rafe stands tall next to you as you, his arms are crossed and a permanent scowl is etched onto his face.
Your son sits at the kitchen island and scans the both of you with his eyes. "Seems like y'all already know" he mumbles before plopping an elbow on the marble and resting his head on his hand. It kills you to see the split on his lip and reddened knuckles, you want to be mad, but you also want to hold him as tightly as possible. You try your hardest to seem indifferent, knowing not to take sides or undermine Rafe's authority, but your kids already know that you're the softer parent by far.
His response makes Rafe take in an audibly deep breath, "Don't be a smartass" he says raising his eyebrows as a sign to your teenager to proceed with caution. "I mean what the hell were you thinking?" he asks, moving his hands to his hips.
He's met with silence as your son gives the two of you a lazy shoulder shrug. Rafe turns to you with widened eyes as your signal to step in. "Okay, not responding is not an option right now" you tell him, definitely more calmly than Rafe would've.
"Is going to my room an option?" he deadpans looking between the both of you.
"Absolutely not, you broke that kid's nose" Rafe responds with a scoff before turning around and holding his head in his hands, trying his hardest to gain composure.
"It's like you don't even care?" you add in, confused because your son has never been this dismissive. The two of you are sure you raised respectful kids, so you just can't fathom this new attitude.
He just looks at you guys and silently shrugs again.
"Well we do care, you know I had to keep your ass from being charged right?" Rafe points a strong finger at him that you softly pull down saying, "We care a lot because we're concerned about you sweetheart, this isn't like you"
He makes eye contact with both of you and remains silent.
"We're not angry with you-" you start until Rafe scoffs, "Yes the hell we are"
The two of you exchange challenging stares as you struggle to remain impartial, "Your father and I feel a bit differently, but regardless what happened isn't okay." You look over at Rafe and he gives a small nod, signaling that the two of you are on the same page before continuing, "We just-"
"Oh my god, just leave me the fuck alone" he yells before storming up the stairs.
The bass in his voice leaves you stunned, you don't even get to process hurt or anger before Rafe breaks the silence, "What the hell did he just say to you?" he turns to face you, his voice is eerily calm, so calm that you try to restrain him before he even moves.
You watch his eyes darken and attempt to deter him by resting your hand on his, "Rafe no-" but before you can fully grab his wrist he darts up the stairs behind him.
It takes you longer to get up the stairs as you're not as blinded by anger, but you can hear the room door slam shut and rip open just as quickly. Your son and your husband are instantly going at each others throats, yelling over one another to the point where you can't even make out what they're even yelling about.
When you make it to the doorway of the room you're immediately angered to see Rafe has him picked up, holding your son against the wall. His fist is grounded in his chest and he has an iron grip on the material of his shirt that keeps him firmly in position against the wall, somewhat on his tippy toes. "You'll apologize to your mother right now or so help me god."
"Rafe, are you fucking serious?" he turns and when he feels the way his icy glare meets the fire in your eyes he begrudgingly lets him go, but not without pettily throwing him back against the wall slightly.
They both stand breathing heavily, cold stares shooting daggers at each other like an old western showdown. Your son hasn't looked this much like Rafe since he was a pouty toddler, it's almost scary now seeing him grown up, too much like his dad for his own good.
"He was arrested for fighting and your solution is this? Both of you are ridiculous" you scold them not sure who you're more upset with yet.
"Both of us? In what world do I let my wannabe delinquent son disrespect my wife in my goddamn house?"
Rafe's focus has shifted as he didn't like you being mad at him. When it comes down to it you're his wife before anything else and a mother to his kids second.
"You don't have to excuse his behavior, but don't manhandle my son like that ever again." you say pointedly before turning towards your son, "And god forbid I'm worried about you, I-" you fight to keep your voice still as your eyes begin to gloss over. Overwhelmed by the chaos of the situation you just throw your hands up, "I can't even right now" you start to walk towards the door, "Your father said you're grounded, so you're grounded." You remind him before leaving, although it seems empty. You don't even know what that means, if you're supposed to take his phone or his controllers, turn off the wifi, unplug his tv? You'll have to count on your husband to follow through with the grounding. You leave the room to get air and you can feel Rafe hot on your heels following you to your shared room. He doesn't say anything as he closes the door behind the two of you and reaches out to turn you to face him.
You slap his hands away, "Have you lost your fucking mind?" you yell at him in a hushed whisper.
"He was cuffed in front of the fucking school, and gets back home acting like an asshole after I got his charges dropped" he responds back in the same hushed tone.
"So he's obviously going through something, it's our job to figure that out, not make him feel like it's us against him"
He pinches the bridge of his nose and squeezes his eyes shut before groaning, "Youre coddling"
You roll your eyes at him, "I’m coddling because i'm not putting my hands on him?"
"You're acting like I actually hit him" Rafe gasps out with widened eyes.
"You were pretty close" you glare at him, making yourself angry all over again.
"Someone needs to. Do you see how he's acting?" He says it so carelessly that it almost makes your jaw drop as you look up at him, frozen. "Do you hear yourself?" you ask him stunned with disbelief. "Is that how you really feel?" you scan his face trying to familiarize the man standing in front of you.
You can see his demeanor soften like he regrets saying it, "No, but.. I know that behavior. I don't want him to turn out like I did" He starts avoiding your eyes, trying to keep his tough exterior built up. You know Rafe is never one for a heart to heart about his feelings but whenever what he's holding onto starts affecting his life like this he knows you won't back down. As expected you don't, as soon as the words leave his lips you slowly approach him.
"I still loved that version of you" You speak softly to him, not wanting him to shut down, but he can't because he knows it's true. You managed to love every version on Rafe and continue to love him unconditionally even though he struggles with doing the same. All his love is reserved for you and he wouldn't have it any other way.
He finds your eyes, "You shouldn't have had to, I'm gonna make up where my parents lacked"
"By acting just like them?" You fire back, watching his eyes start to dart back around, more nervously this time.
He's quick to respond, his voice just below a whisper, almost begging you, "Don't say that"
Your heart hurts just from looking at him, you knew the comparison would strike a nerve, but it's the only way you think he'd understand. "That's what I saw, I'm not gonna let you become a father you'll regret"
"I- i fucked up okay!" he creates distance between the two of you and you watch as he stares off going uncharacteristically pale. You call after him, following him as he keeps walking away from you, now beginning to dry heave at the thought of turning into his father. Watching him spiral scares you, you reach out to touch him and you can feel his body slightly trembling as he speaks, "You don't know how bad it scares me to continue the cycle, to be like Ward, for him to grow up and be like me, it fucking terrifies me."
You hold his face in your hands, forcing him to look you in your eyes as you thumb away the few tears that escaped from his eyes. "It's okay to be scared, but don't let that fear control you. I mean we've done pretty good so far. We may be a little fucked up, but our kids are great. I'll talk to him and figure out what happened" you promise him and you can feel his hands grip you tightly as he pulls you flush against him for a hug.
"I'm sorry, I was reactive and wrong." he talks lowly in your ear as your arms drape on top of his shoulders. "I shouldn't have lost my temper or grabbed him, i'll apologize, find a way to make it right" he says quietly with a guilty look plastered all over his face when you pull back to look at him.
"Maybe we give him back his keys and just give him an earlier curfew?" you suggest softly.
"He's paying for his own gas"
"Deal" you agree, knowing you might still slip him gas money if he asks.
"I love you, We're good?"
"We're good, I love you too." you confirm with a soft smile that he presses a kiss to.
The fireworks exploded above the beach in violent colors pinks, golds, greens bright enough to turn the whole night into something unreal.
You stood barefoot in the sand, your sandals abandoned somewhere behind you, salt sticking to your skin while music pounded from the festival stages down the shoreline. Everyone around you was screaming, filming, dancing.
But you only looked at him.
At Rafe.
He leaned against the hood of his truck a few feet away, cigarette hanging lazily between his fingers, expensive watch glinting every time the fireworks flashed overhead. The light caught the sharp edges of his face for half a second at a time enough to make your chest ache.
Because for once, he looked calm.
Not angry.
Not reckless.
Not pretending.
Just… looking at you.
“You’re staring,” you teased softly.
Rafe smirked without looking away. “Can you blame me?”
Another firework cracked across the sky. People cheered louder. Somewhere nearby someone lit sparklers and the smoke drifted through the warm summer air.
You laughed under your breath and shook your head. “You only say sweet things when there’s explosions involved.”
“That true?” he asked.
“Mhm.”
He pushed himself off the truck slowly, moving toward you with that dangerous kind of confidence that always made your stomach flip. Black tee. Chains. Ocean eyes impossible to read.
“You want me honest then?”
You swallowed.
Rafe stopped right in front of you, close enough for you to smell saltwater and cologne and smoke on his skin.
“I think about you all the time,” he said quietly.
The words hit harder than the fireworks.
Your breath caught because Rafe Cameron never sounded unsure about anything except this. Except you.
Behind him, the sky burst gold again, sparks raining down over the ocean like falling stars.
“You’re joking,” you whispered.
“I’m serious.”
His hand slid around your waist slowly, almost carefully, like he was waiting for you to pull away. You didn’t. Couldn’t.
The music from the festival turned muffled the second he touched you.
“You know what my problem is?” he murmured.
“What?”
“You make me wanna be good.”
Your heart nearly stopped.
Rafe laughed softly at the look on your face before brushing his thumb against your cheek. The fireworks reflected in his eyes now, bright and messy and beautiful.
Then quieter
“And I don’t know how to do that.”
The confession sat between you for a second.
Raw.
Dangerous.
Real.
You reached up, fingers brushing the chain around his neck. “Maybe you don’t have to figure it out alone.”
Rafe stared at you like no one had ever offered him softness before.
Then the grand finale started.
The sky exploded into color all at once, loud enough to shake the ground beneath your feet. Everyone around you screamed and pointed upward.
SYNOPSIS‧₊˚ After making a splash in the "Kiss and Tell" challenge, you find yourself drawn to the magnetic but "taken" Rafe Cameron.
WARNING(S)‧₊˚ ruthie's a mean girl, deception, swearing, suggestive content, emotional stress, not proofread ywt
˗ˏˋ series masterlist ˎˊ˗
“IT’S OUR COUPLES FIRST NIGHT IN THE VILLA. As our four couples sit shaking in their seats, our lovely Ariana is waiting to give them their first challenge.”
The air hummed with anticipation, the neon glow of the Love Island villa casting long shadows across the manicured lawn. It was the first night, and already, the drama was brewing. After the initial coupling, four pairs stood awkwardly — Cleo and Pope, Sarah and Topper, John B and Kiara, Rafe and Ruthie.
The host, none other than Ariana Madix, clapped her hands, drawing everyone's attention. "Alright, Islanders. It’s time for our very first challenge — 'Kiss and Tell'... or maybe just 'Kiss' for now…" Nervous giggles rippled through the group, the islanders sharing weary smiles and awkward glances. "Here's how it works: you'll each be blindfolded. Then, you'll be given the chance to kiss someone you might have a little bit of interest in…outside of your couple. No talking, just kissing. And please, try to be quiet." Ariana smiled mischievously. “With that, Islanders, please place your blindfolds over your eyes.”
A heavy tension hung in the air as the couples silently placed the thick, black blindfolds over their eyes. With one of their senses taken, Ariana continued. “If you’d like to kiss someone outside of your current couple, please, raise your hand.”
With slow, steady, and somewhat unsure movements — a few islanders took a leap and raised their hands. First it was Ruthie, then Topper, then Pope, then John B. The hosts’ eyes widened, turning to the camera and mouthing a ‘wow’.
“Islanders,” Ariana started once she made a mental note of who held their hand up. “When I tap your shoulder, you may silently get up and kiss the islander, or islanders, of your choice.” And with a wink towards the camera, Ariana stepped down from the platform and quietly started rounding the circle of couples, tapping Ruthie on the shoulder first.
A wide grin plastered on her face as she slid the blindfold from over her eyes. Quietly sliding off of her seat next to Rafe, she moved with surprising confidence. She wasted no time in planting quick, decisive kisses on all the boys. She started with Pope, attempting to deepen it, but he didn’t seem quite interested. Then she moved onto John B, the kiss not lasting long. She made her last move on Topper, a kiss that lasted a bit too long for comfort…and definitely was heard by the others.
Confessional : Sarah
“I’m not saying Topper got kissed…” She started, hands in the air. “All I’m saying is that I heard lips locking a little too close to my ear.”
Confessional : Ruthie
Producer: Do you feel bad about kissing all of the guys?
“Do I feel bad?” She asked almost unbelievably. “Why would I? This is Love Island. I’m just playing the game. Plus, maybe if I make Rafe a little jealous, he’ll actually show some interest in me…” She rolled her eyes.
Once Ruthie was sat and blindfolded, Pope was the next to receive a soft tap on his shoulder.
Slowly removing his blindfold and getting out of his seat, the boy found his way straight to Kiara. With a gentle finger under her chin, Pope placed a soft, sweet kiss on her lips.
Confessional : Pope
“I felt kind of bad stepping outside of my coupling with Cleo, but I feel this, like, pull towards Kiara and it just felt like an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”
With Pope back in his seat, it was Topper’s turn. Ariana’s jaw dropped when he practically made a b-line for Ruthie, shoving his tongue down her throat.
Confessional : Topper
“I kind of had a feeling it was Ruthie that kissed me but after kissing her, I know it was her. For sure.” He smiled, leaning back. “Glad to know the feeling’s mutual.”
And lastly, after Topper had his fun, it was John B’s time to shine. He took a deep breath before he found Sarah, a brief but undeniable spark in their exchange—him taking her face in both of his hands and placing a passionate kiss on her lips.
Confessional : John B
“Sarah and I kept locking eyes during the coupling, so I was kinda bummed when she went with Topper…” John B shrugged. “But your boy never gives up, so of course I had to show her what she was missing. Even if she doesn’t know it was me...yet.” He winked.
With John B back in his seat, Ariana returned to the middle. But instead of instructing the islanders to remove their blindfolds, she glances over her shoulder, waving two people over.
“Uh-oh. It looks like our couples are about to get their first real taste of Love Island — please welcome our first bombshells, Y/N and JJ.”
The villa was silent as you entered the villa alongside JJ, small smirks on your faces as you anticipated the drama you were about to stir. It was exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time.
Confessional : You
“Hi!" You beamed. "I’m Y/N, I’m twenty-two and I’m from Vegas. I just recently graduated with a Psych degree but I definitely gained some other…useful skills throughout my multiple careers." You laughed. "I’m here to take another chance on love and find my person. I know that coming in as a bombshell, it’s kind of my role to step on toes, but that’s really not my intention, and I hope I can get on with the girls before I have to steal one of their guys…”
Confessional : JJ
“I’m JJ, I’m twenty-two and I’m from Florida. I work as a surf instructor and I came here to work on my…non-commitalism? I think that’s what they called it… I don’t know, but girls apparently hate it." He shrugged, the producers laughing in the background. "I’ve been called a “red flag” too many times for my liking, so, here I am.”
As you and JJ come to stand beside the host, your eyes wander over the blindfolded, unexpecting couples. They were all attractive, even with parts of their features covered, and you could tell this would be a hard decision.
Silently, Ariana motioned for JJ to step forward and kiss the girls first. And the blonde could not be more excited.
Looks like JJ is wasting no time in taking his chances. This man’s got no fear as he approaches our first blindfolded girl.
Confessional : You
“Y’know, I’m kind of glad that I came in with JJ because, I can’t lie, he’s an attractive guy, and had I not? I might’ve gone for him. But after getting to talk to him, he’s very…different.” You laughed, a hand covering your mouth. “Like, it’s not a bad thing but…" Your voice dropped to a whisper as if anyone could hear you. "...he kept looking at my boobs in the car.”
The nearest couple to the three unblindfolded happened to be Cleo and Pope, and JJ didn’t hesitate in making an impression — a hand gently slid up the length of Cleo’s neck, guiding her to tilt her head up as JJ pressed his lips against hers.
Moving onto the next, Topper sat still, none the wiser to an all too happy JJ slowly approaching Sarah. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, he dipped down and placed a sensual kiss to her lips.
Then it was Kiara, both of his hands cradling the girl’s round cheeks as sloppily kissed her right next to her partner.
Lastly, he ended his show with a brief but still steamy kiss with Ruthie, who surprisingly (or not), gripped his arms as he locked lips.
As JJ made his way back to the platform, licking his lips — you and the host couldn’t do anything but shake your heads. Once JJ was planted in his spot, Ariana nodded her head in your direction as a silent signal for you to follow JJ’s lead, only this time…on all the boys.
With a deep breath, you quietly stepped down from the heart shaped platform, careful not to make noise with the heels on your feet.
The first guy you approached, Pope, caught your eye immediately — dark skin, coily hair, and muscles that clearly took some hard work and time. He was hard to miss, and you were glad you didn’t. Standing in between his legs, one of your hands slithered behind his neck, the boy visibly shivering under your touch before you dipped down and connected your lips with his. Pope involuntarily made a small sound of surprise before relaxing into the exchange, just seconds before you decided to pull away and approach the next guy.
This one was blonde and much lankier, his shoulders much too square for your taste. Even with the blindfold, you could tell he wasn’t quite your speed. But Kiss and Tell was the name of the game, and unlike the others, you weren’t given much of a choice in the matter. Bending down, you placed a kiss to his lips, not as engaged as before as you pulled away, gently swiping his chin before moving on.
The next guy was definitely something — John B had a nice tan, visible freckles and sun spots, and this fluffy, brown hair that definitely gave him some points. Your fingers trailed up his arms, feeling that slight hairs on them as you ran them all up until they could thread into his mess of loose curls, pulling at them slightly to tilt his head back as you slid your lips against his. As you pulled away, you could see that he was visibly breathless, the sight almost making you chuckle.
But you held it in and choked it down as your eyes landed on your fourth and final victim of the night. The smile was almost immediately wiped from your face when you got a good look at the guy you’d be kissing — a buzzcut, well-defined muscles that had maps of veins that you could spend hours tracing with your fingers, and this somewhat ever-present smirk on his face that didn’t seem to fade.
Rafe wasn’t just your type. He was straight up something out of a dream.
And you didn’t even get to see his eyes, yet.
And you couldn’t stop yourself as you quietly walked in his direction, stopping right in front of him. It was almost like the man could sense your presence as his head slightly angled itself upwards, almost like he could see you through the obstruction. The movement made your heart race but you didn’t allow it to throw you off your game.
Your hands started at his knees, slowly moving up as they caressed his thighs. Rafe was unwavering, deathly still, but his clenching jaw was a dead giveaway — and your sign that you must’ve been doing something right. As one hand remained planted on his thigh, the other slowly traveled up his chest, to his neck, all the way up until you could hold his face in your hand, slightly pulling it closer in order to carefully connect his lips with your own. Out of all the kisses you’d given out tonight, this one was the only one to make your head spin. Your knees nearly buckled when Rafe seemed to lose himself, groaning into the kiss.
You smiled against his lips as you slowly pulled away, the hand on his jaw coming up to wipe the gloss from his lips — leaving the boy stunned, his jaw still slack as you walked away.
Confessional : Rafe
Producer: Rafe, how do you feel about the last kiss you received?
“...I don’t know what the fuck that was.” Rafe stared blankly into the camera, a smile forming on his lips that he tried to fight. “But I liked it. A lot.”
With both you and JJ back on the podium, Ariana stood with her hands in front of her before speaking to the islanders themselves. “Alright,” She started, smiling. “You may now remove your blindfolds.”
You watched, nearly tap dancing on your feet, as the couples in front of you slowly removed the masks from their eyes. They looked at each other first…then at you and JJ. You both remained still as the islanders turned to you both one by one, sharing looks of surprise.
“Islanders, while some of you did choose to kiss someone, or a few people, outside of your coupling,” The host started, looking around with pointed glances. “Those last kisses were courtesy of our first official bombshells — JJ and Y/N.”
As the couples shifted in their seats, some looking nervous or shameful, you couldn’t help but let your gaze drift to the last boy you kissed.
Rafe’s eyes were glued to you as he relaxed in his seat, his eyes studying you like the most interesting piece of art he’d ever seen. You didn’t realize you were staring at first, but even when you did, the fact didn’t seem to deter you.
“Now that the first challenge has ended,” The host started back up. “Will you be honest and admit whether you chose to kiss someone other than your partner? Or are your lips officially sealed for good?” She taunted, looking around with a glint in her eye. “Until then, please, make your new islanders feel welcome. Who knows? You might want to be on their good side…” Ariana shrugged. “Until we meet again. Good luck.”
YOU TRAILED BEHIND THE GIRLS AS THEY WALKED TOWARDS A LOUNGE AREA, a fair distance away from where the boys had also gathered to chat. You figured it’d best to get on with the women first. You were here to find love, but you weren’t in the business of making enemies.
As they all sat down, you took a seat between the blonde and the girl with the brown curls.
“Okay, that was kind of crazy.” Kiara spoke first, eyes wide.
“Wait, you got kissed?” Sarah asked, jaw slack. Kiara just nodded sheepishly. “Oh my gosh, who do you think it was? Because, so did I, and I think it may have been-” Sarah cut herself off mid-sentence, eyes drifting to you. “Oh shit, we’re being so rude.” She clasped her hands over her mouth, placing a hand on your shoulder. “Hi. You’re gorgeous, like stunning, actually. I’m Sarah,” She started pointing to herself, then the others. “That’s Kiara, Cleo, and Ruthie.”
They all waved, sending you warm smiles, even though you could tell there was still some lingering worry. The coldest was Ruthie, offering you a pained grimace before rolling her eyes.
You introduced yourself in return, telling the girls your name before diving right into your real concerns. “Can someone fill me in? I know it’s still the first day but I feel like I missed so much. I mean, you’re already coupled up. How did that happen? Did the guys pick?”
“Actually, we did” Sarah beamed, tucking a strand of hair behind hear ear and glancing at the guys across the lawn. “So, I’m coupled up with Topper, that guy right there.” She pointed to him, sitting tense in his seat.
“Who I was coupled with first,” Ruthie retorted from her place next to Kiara, arms crossed as she looked you up and down briefly.
“Yeah,” Sarah cringed. “I did kind of steal him, but it’s still early! Sorry, Ruthie...” She apologized, Ruthie offering no words in response as she shrugged, trying to act unbothered.
Confessional : Sarah
“I don’t know if Ruthie is actually mad about the whole Topper thing. I hope not…” She trailed off, squinting. “It’s literally our first day. How mad can she really be?”
“Plus, you ended up with Rafe,” Sarah continued, relaxing in her seat. “I’d say that’s still a win.”
“I didn’t pick him,” Ruthie sassed back, trying to lighten her words with a chuckle this time. “But he seems to be interested in me so, yeah, ‘I’d say that’s still a win’.” She mocked lightheartedly(?).
Confessional : Ruthie
“Rafe’s not showing as much interest as I’m used to, but I obviously can’t admit that with this new bombshell here. She’s not even all that but I need to secure my spot because I’ll be damned if I’m the first to go home.”
“What about you?” You turned to Kiara, trying to break the tension in the air. “You’re with the brunette guy, right?”
Kiara simply nodded, a small smile tugging on her face. “Yeah, but I didn’t pick him. We were the only two that weren’t coupled up at the end of the first coupling. I, uh, had actually picked Pope, the guy sitting next to him.”
“Oh, him?” You asked, pointing over your shoulder. “Oh, that sucks. He’s hot.” You giggled, turning to direct your next comment at Cleo. “So, I’m guessing you swooped in and took him for yourself?” You joked, Cleo throwing her hands up as she leaned back.
“Hey, man,” She started. “I didn’t wanna do it to Kiara but I had to.” She defended, the topic clearly less offensive than the Ruthie and Sarah situation.
“So, besides me, did any of you kiss anyone?” You pressed, tucking your feet underneath you.
“Nope,” Ruthie was the first to speak after not including herself for most of the discussion. But something in your gut told you she wasn’t being quite honest…
“No, but I wonder who was the first guy that kissed me…” Kiara added, pouting. “He was really gentle, it was kind of sweet.”
Sarah sighed as she leaned into her seat. “Same, whoever kissed me did it like they’d been waiting to do it all day or something.
Confessional : Sarah
“I have a feeling it was John B that kissed me…” She laughed out loud. “I know it’s weird! But who else could it have been?”
“And you two didn’t get kissed by anyone outside of JJ?” You asked, shooting glances at Ruthie and Cleo, both girls shaking their heads.
“But what about you, girl?” Cleo interjected, hugging a pillow in front of her. “You got to kiss all the boys! Don’t be shy,” She urged, shrugging a shoulder with a curious smile on her face. “Who was your favorite?”
You laughed under your breath, palming the back of your neck. “I don’t think I should say…” The girls all collectively groaned, throwing their heads back. “I don’t wanna make anyone mad!” You defended, a small pout of your face as your eyebrows first.
“Oh, please!” Kiara stepped in. “We haven’t even shared a bed with these guys yet. Tell us!” She urged, playfully shaking your shoulder.
“Okay! Okay…” You surrendered, taking a deep breath and sinking into your seat. “...None of the kisses were bad…”
“But?” Sarah egged on, a teasing smile on her face.
“...But, one guy definitely made a… lasting impression.” You muttered, adjusting in your seat as your eyes drifted up to gaze across the lawn at the guy in question, only to find him staring back at you.
The girls followed your gaze like a pack of bloodhounds, their heads all swiveling toward the boys’ fire pit at once. Across the way, Rafe didn't even have the decency to look away. He was still leaned back, arms draped over the back of the sofa, watching you with that same heavy, unreadable intensity.
"No way," Sarah gasped, her jaw dropping. "Rafe? Seriously?"
Ruthie’s posture went from relaxed to stiff as a board in 0.5 seconds. She let out a sharp, forced laugh that didn't reach her eyes, smoothing down her hair. "I mean, he’s a good-looking guy, obviously. That's why I'm with him. But he's definitely a 'one-woman' kind of guy, you know? Probably just trying to be polite back to you."
Confessional : Ruthie
She picks at her manicure, looking absolutely livid despite her voice staying calm. "Am I pissed? No. I’m humored. It’s actually hilarious that she thinks she has a chance. She comes in, kisses everyone like she’s at a buffet, and thinks the guy I’m coupled with is into it?” She scoffs, flipping her hair over her shoulder. “I’m totally fine. Like, literally so chill right now."
"I don't know, Ruthie," Cleo smirked, nudging you. "He's literally burned a hole through the side of her head for the last ten minutes..."
You felt the heat crawl up your neck. "I’m not trying to step on toes, I promise. It was just... the chemistry was there.” You shrugged sheepishly. “I can't lie about it."
"Well, explore it!" Sarah encouraged, though she glanced nervously at Ruthie. "That’s what we’re here for, right?"
THE NIGHT WOUND down with a few more drinks and some awkward small talk, but eventually, the exhaustion of the first day hit. The villa felt massive and glowing, but as you retreated to the dressing room to wash off the day, the silence felt heavy.
You were standing at the mirror, scrubbing off your makeup, when the door creaked open. You expected Sarah or Kiara, but when you looked in the reflection, you saw the buzzcut and those piercing eyes. Rafe leaned against the doorframe, hands in the pockets of his pajama pants.
"Long day?" he asked. His voice was deeper than earlier, a bit raspy.
"You could say that," you murmured, reaching for a towel and wiping the water from your face. "I think I've met about ten people and kissed five of them. My brain is fried."
Rafe stepped closer as you hung the towel up, invading your personal space in a way that made your heart do a frantic little dance against your ribs. He smelled like expensive cologne and the ocean. "Only one of those kisses mattered, though.” He drawled, looking you up and down. “Right?"
You turned around, leaning your back against the cool marble of the sink. "You're pretty confident for a guy who’s supposedly 'happy' in his couple.” You challenged, quirking a brow. “Ruthie seems to think you’re pretty set on her."
Rafe let out a dry chuckle, stepping even closer until he was inches away. He reached out, his thumb catching a stray bit of damp hair stuck to your temple. "Ruthie is... a lot. And for the record? I didn't pick her. She picked me.” He assured, a soft smile on his lips. “Don't believe everything you hear in this place."
"So…you're telling me you're not interested?" you challenged once more, looking up at him.
"I'm telling you," he whispered, his eyes dropping to your lips for a lingering second before snapping back to yours, "that I haven't been able to think about anyone else since I took that blindfold off.” He rasped, the air growing thick as you noted the lack of space between you. “You've got this way of looking at me like you already know all my secrets. It's frustrating."
You shrugged. "Maybe I do," you teased, your voice barely a whisper.
He smirked, that dangerous look returning. "Then you know you should probably stay away from me.” He said, a hard look in his eyes. “But I really hope you don't."
He lingered for a second too long, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife, before he winked and headed toward the bedroom. You stood there for a full minute, heart hammering, trying to remember how to breathe.
And as the lights dimmed in the bedroom later, you climbed into your temporary bed next to JJ. Across the room, you saw Rafe settling in next to a very clingy Ruthie. Just before the last light clicked off, he turned his head. In the shadows, your eyes met.
THE MORNING SUN hit the villa with a vengeance. The makeup room was a blur of hairspray, bronzer, and whispered gossip. You were sitting in a chair next to Sarah, who was aggressively blending her concealer.
"So," Sarah whispered, leaning in. "I saw him follow you into the bathroom last night. Spill."
Your eyes went wide before you looked around the room, the other girls occupied as you bit your lip, trying to suppress a smile. "He basically said he’s not into Ruthie. He said he didn't even choose her, they just ended up together."
Sarah squealed quietly. "I knew it! He couldn’t stop looking at you, girl.If he’s into you, he’s into you. You should definitely explore it. Don't let Ruthie scare you off. She’s just territorial because she knows her spot is shaky."
"I just,” you sighed. “I don't want to be the villain," you admitted, applying some lip gloss.
"Honey, it's Love Island," Sarah laughed. "Everyone is the villain to someone. Go get your man." She nudged your shoulder.
You took her advice to heart. The rest of the afternoon was spent "mingling." You talked to Topper about his gym routine (boring, but he was nice enough), chatted with John B about surfing (he was definitely more Sarah's speed), and had a long talk with Kiara about how stressed she was feeling.
During a quiet moment by the pool with JJ, both of your phones let out that iconic tri-tone chime.
"Yo! I got a text!" JJ and yourself shouted in unison, jumping up. "JJ and Y/N, as our bombshells, it’s time to see if the grass is greener. You each have one minute to pick one Islander you're most drawn to for a private getaway in the Hideaway. #DoubleDate #HideawayHoneymoon"
Everyone went silent. You didn't even have to think.
"I'm picking Cleo," JJ said immediately, grinning at her. Pope looked like he’d just swallowed a lemon whole.
"And I pick... Rafe," you said, your voice steady despite the daggers Ruthie was throwing at you from the sun lounger.
Confessional : Pope
"I mean, JJ picking Cleo? It’s whatever. We’re just a couple of days in. But I can't lie, it stings a bit. Especially since I’m still sitting here feeling like a total jerk for kissing Kie during the challenge. I’m in the doghouse with myself, and now my partner is headed to the Hideaway with the guy who looks like a literal Abercrombie model.” He face palms. “Great."
Confessional : Ruthie
"She is so desperate. It’s actually embarrassing to watch. She’s gunning for Rafe because she thinks he’s the 'safe' option to stay in the villa, but she doesn't realize he’s just playing along to be nice. She’s clearly jealous of what I have with him. She can have her little hour in the Hideaway. He’ll be back in my bed tonight, guaranteed."
THE HIDEAWAY was everything you'd expect—plush furs, neon signs, and an oversized bed. There were two separate areas set up for the two couples. You and Rafe sat across from each other on a velvet sofa, a deck of cards between you.
"‘The Deep Dive’ game," Rafe read the box, a smirk playing on his lips. "You ready for this? I don't exactly play fair."
"I’m a psych major, Rafe. I literally study people for a living. Good luck," you countered, plucking the first card. "What do you think people would say is your biggest red flag?"
Rafe leaned back, watching you. "I'll go first.” He shrugged “I have a…temper. Or used to. I’m workin’ on it. And I tend to get obsessed with things—or people—pretty fast.” He edged, eyes glued to you. “Your turn."
You shifted, getting comfortable. "I overanalyze everything," you admitted. "I'll spend three hours wondering why you texted ‘gm’ instead of ‘good morning gorgeous’.'"
As the game went on, the walls started to come down. You talked about your pasts—Rafe’s pressure from his family, your desire to find someone who actually sees you and not just the version of you they want.
Then, the questions got… spicier.
"What’s the most adventurous place you’ve ever done it?"
Rafe’s eyes darkened, leaning in close, laughing lowly. "On a boat. Middle of the marsh. No one for miles. You?"
You pretended to think, feeling the warmth in your cheeks. "...A library," you whispered, the proximity making your skin tingle. "The 'History' section was too quiet for my liking, I guess."
He laughed, a genuine, warm sound. His laughter brought a shy smile to your face as you plucked a piece of chocolate from the small snack tray on the table, placing it on your tongue as Rafe leaned back, studying you with a smirk. "...I think I like you, angel.” He said softly. “And I’m not jus’ sayin’ that for the cameras."
You huffed a small laugh, chewing the piece of chocolate before looking at him through your lashes. “I think I like you too, Cameron.” The two of you stared at one another before deciding to look for another game, pulling a new deck of cards from under the table. “Truth or Dare,” you hummed, playing with the cards in your hands. “You up for it, Cameron?”
MEANWHILE, back in the main villa, the atmosphere was a lot less romantic. The remaining Islanders were gathered around the fire pit, the conversation turning to the "Kiss and Tell" challenge.
"Come on, we’re all friends here," Topper said, nudging the group. "Who actually kissed someone else?"
"I didn't," Ruthie said flatly, eyes fixed on the Hideaway door. "I stayed loyal to Rafe." She lied effortlessly.
"I didn't either," Topper added, looking Sarah right in the eye. No shame.
"Me neither," John B shrugged, looking as cool as a cucumber as he kicked his feet up.
The silence stretched until Pope sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I did.” He said, voice barely above a whisper. “I…kissed Kiara."
The group erupted. Sarah gasped, and Kiara looked like she wanted the ground to swallow her whole.
"Wait, what?" Sarah asked, looking between them.
"That…that was you?" Kiara stammered, her face turning bright red.
"I just wanted to be honest," Pope muttered, looking crushed. “I know I’m with Cleo but I just…”
Kiara stood up, her eyes watery. "I need... I just need a minute. This is a lot."
She hurried off the bedrooms and Pope started to stand up, but John B put a hand on his shoulder. "Give her space, man. Let her breathe."
Confessional : Kiara
“I think Pope’s a great guy and he’s definitely an option, but,” She sighed, running a hand through her curls. “I know that Cleo is really into him. This is a shit-show…”
IT WAS NEARLY 2:00 AM when you got the text telling you all that the Hideaway date was finally over and doors opened. You and Cleo walked out first, whispering and giggling about the night.
"I'm telling you, JJ is a menace," Cleo laughed, though she looked like she’d had the time of her life. “He’s funny, definitely a character. But I’m not sure he’s my type like that, you know?”
"Yeah, trust me, I get it.” You assured, keeping your voice low. “Rafe is... he's actually deep," you told her, smiling. "I didn't expect to connect with him like that…"
Behind you, Rafe and JJ were walking together, talking in low tones. "She's different, man," you heard Rafe tell JJ. "I’m not just talking about her looks. She actually listens, she’s funny, her personality is great."
His words brought a small smile to your face, one Cleo noticed as she nudged your shoulder with a smirk.
As you entered the bedroom, a few of the boys whooped and cheered. "Y’all are back! How was it?" Topper shouted as everyone walked to gather around the four of you.
But the mood was quickly killed when Ruthie stood up, marching right into your personal space, her face contorted with rage.
"Having fun, are we?" she spat. "You know, there are four other guys in here. But you had to pick the one who was already in a stable couple.” She hissed. “You have it out for me, don't you?"
“Hey—” Rafe intervened, putting an arm between you two.
But you didn't flinch. You just looked her up and down, keeping your voice calm and level. "Ruthie, if you're upset about the date, that sounds like a conversation you need to have with Rafe.” You clapped back. “He’s right here.” You looked up at him before narrowing your eyes back on her. “...Or maybe you're just upset because he didn't seem to miss you that much."
The ‘oohs’ from the rest of the group were audible.
She scoffed, taking a step back. "I'm the only one here with any respect." Ruthie yelled.
"Actually," you said, leaning in with a snarky grin, "you're the only one here making a scene. And for what it's worth? Rafe had a very good time.” You snarked with a cocky smile. “You should ask him about dare number three."
Ruthie stood there fuming with her nostrils flared before stomping off.
Rafe stepping in front of you, sighing as he ran a hand down his face. “I am so sorry about that shit. I know she’s not my actual girlfriend or anything, Thank God, but—”
“It’s not your fault, Rafe.” You chuckled, running a hand down his arm. “I’ve dealt with girls like Ruthie my entire life. I’m fine. Trust me.”
Suddenly, Kiara emerged into the bedroom and signaled Cleo, no one even noticing her absence. The pair walked off into the corner, their faces grim.
The entire room went dead silent as everyone watched them—you, Rafe, and JJ standing confused.
"...What happened while we were gone?" you asked, sensing the shift in energy.
“Kiss and Tell challenge, man…” Was all Topper offered, heading into the bathroom.
A few minutes later, Cleo and Kiara returned. Kiara was wiping her eyes, and Cleo looked furious. Cleo walked straight up to Pope, grabbed his arm, and pulled him outside. When they came back in five minutes later, the silence was deafening. They weren't looking at each other, and Pope looked like he’d seen a ghost.
The bedroom atmosphere was tense and awkward. And since you and JJ were the bombshells and didn't have official couples yet, you were assigned the spare bed in the corner.
As you climbed in, JJ’s lanky legs immediately tangled with yours. "Uh-uh. Watch the toes, JJ!" you joked loudly, trying to break the tension.
The room erupted in laughter, the first bit of relief in the last few minutes.
Across the room, Ruthie returned from wherever she’d stormed off to and tried to crawl into bed next to Rafe, throwing her arm over his chest. Rafe didn't even look at her. He stayed stiff as a board for about ten minutes before he sighed deeply and abruptly sat up, shoved his feet into his slippers, and walked out of the room without a word.
Ruthie let out a frustrated groan and rolled over, pretending to sleep.
You lay there, staring at the ceiling after watching him leave. Not able to sleep as your mind clouded with thoughts of him—the kiss, the bathroom, the hideaway. He was all consuming.
After a few beats, you quietly slid out from JJ’s side and crept out of the room.
The outdoor area was bathed in blue moonlight and in the large woven hammock in the center of the garden, was Rafe. He was wrapped in a thick blanket, staring up at the stars.
You walked over slowly, your feet bare on the cool grass as you stood before him, your frame casting a shadow over his frame. “Hey, Cameron,” you whispered, poking him. "Need some company?"
Rafe looked over, his expression softening instantly when he realized it was you. He didn't say anything. He just reached out, lifted the edge of the heavy wool blanket, and held it open for you.
You climbed in, the hammock swaying gently as you settled against his chest as he wrapped the blanket tightly around both of you, his chin resting on the top of your head as the villa finally went quiet around you.
contains: angst, yearning, mention of rafe wanting to hurt himself (he didn't dw)
you used to force rafe into everything that you love to do—keyword, used to—until the two of you had broken up over something that he thought was stupid, but not to you. never to you. he doesn't take anything serious, thinking that you would never leave him over something small.
it was small at first, but it piled up into something bigger. he thought none of it as he kept letting himself do what he wants, even if it hurts you—letting himself hurt you. it used to be so easy between the two of you, and he just had to ruin it, guilty for the way he had broken your heart—squeezing them with his own two hands—leaving you ruined.
he woke up one day to you not being where you were supposed to be, next to him—wrapped up in his clothes as his sheets drape over your body with the sun shining in your face, making you look so peaceful—his heart dropped at the sight of the empty space there.
calling out your name, expecting for you to answer like you would always do, but was greeted with silence as he sat there on his bed, trying not to panic as his breathing starts to ragged. he told himself that you were out for a bit—maybe to the store down the street—as he searches for you around the house.
a few minutes passed, but it felt like hours as he stares at his screen—to the unread messages he sent you—trying to keep himself composed. something told him to check the closet, mentally preparing himself knowing that something isn't right. he almost went down on his knees as he sees that your clothes weren't there anymore, with a note left for him to read.
'i can't let myself go through this, i can't stand it anymore. i love you, rafe. too much, too much that i didn't care if you hurt me, but it's not supposed to be this way. i can't go on like this any longer. thank you for everything. please, take care of yourself. i love you.'
a year had gone by and he still have that note—tucked in his wallet—where he would read it over and over again as he let himself drown in his sorrow, drinks after drinks until he physically can't take it anymore. he would send you messages in his drunken state, telling you how much he misses you and wishes that you were still there with him. he doesn't even care if you read them—he hope you did.
he stares at the picture of the two of you in his wallet, tucked over the note of your last words as he sat on the stool at the bar. it's one of the pictures from the photobooth where you would always force him to take, claiming how much you love them—how you can take it anywhere with you even in your locket as you cut them up into the shape of a heart so that it would fit perfectly—you were so sentimental.
when he's finally out of the bar, he didn't have any direction as he walk. that was until he comes across one of those photobooth machine, didn't even think it through as he slips into the booth. he sat there, reminiscing the time from when it was the two of you as the machine starts taking pictures.
he tried to keep himself calm, failing as tears start gathering in his eyes. that's when he started crying as he thought of you. if only he didn't treat you so bad, if only he didn't let himself hurt you, would you still be there with him? questions start flooding in his mind.
there's no going back now, he knows how he had ruined everything—ruined you—but he still hope that you would come back, come back to him. he kept hoping that something would just bring you back to him. he even thought of ways to make you—maybe by hurting himself to the point where he would be in the hospital, and you would be there for him?
you really fucked with his head, but it's not your fault—it never is your fault. he's the only one to blame for everything that had happened between the two of you. he doesn't know how he'll be able to live now.
Summary: Driving aimlessly to forget yourself
Warnings: None
Writers notes: English is not my native language; please excuse me if there are any mistakes or poor translations.
Rafe Cameron x fem!reader
The red traffic light reflected across the car’s interior, casting a trembling glow, bright enough to reveal the tears pooling at the corners of your eyes, if anyone were paying attention.
Night had fallen some time ago, yet the heat remained stifling—a blaze that couldn’t manage to warm you.
Everything felt so cold now. Tasteless. As if the light and its warmth could no longer carve a path through the darkness surrounding you.
Outside, the scent of freshly turned fields announced summer.
In the distance, you could still hear the laughter of those strolling through the streets, the open doors of bars spilling bursts of music and voices.
Everything breathed joy and life: one season ending to make way for the next, to be enjoyed.
But not for you. It wasn’t yet time to move on, after all.
Even getting your driver’s license last week hadn’t brought the happiness you had hoped for. Your fingers grazed the leather of the steering wheel, as if trying to touch something real amid the emptiness inside you.
Rafe. His hands resting on the wheel, guiding yours. His constant corrections—“brake earlier,” “watch your line”—spoken with that mixture of patience and strictness. The ease of someone who knows the road, yet teaching each movement as if your safety depended on his vigilance.
As if to drown you under an avalanche of pain, the images kept returning in your mind.
You could still hear his voice, light and teasing, echoing in your head: your license, that he wasn't going to take you everywhere anymore, that it was up to you to drive it from now on.
He wasn’t the type to feel threatened by a girlfriend at the wheel. No, if you were driving, it was mostly so he could watch you, secretly smiling at each movement of your hands on the wheel.
You hated that feeling, uneasy under his deep, silent blue eyes. He knew it and played with it. Every kiss on your shoulder meant to calm your frustration became a little provocation, followed by his laughter when you threatened to hit him.
You could have driven him home, proud, sliding the car into his driveway without hitting the bushes.
But tonight, you were alone.
The city passed by through your tear-blurred eyes, streetlights forming fuzzy halos across the windshield. Every turn reminded you of his absence. And in that silence, his absence weighed heavier than ever.
The car behind you honked: the red light had turned green without you noticing, too lost in memories.
Blinker on for a left turn—far from Rafe’s house if you turned right—you continued slowly along your path.
Pedestrians strolled peacefully, some heading to the beach for a quiet moment, others toward the park, where the swings seemed ready to host whispered confidences.
Just like you once had.
You weren’t in a hurry to return to your little studio, soon to be emptied for college, where other memories awaited, persistent despite open windows and the night breeze.
Insomnia exhausted you, tears soaking your pillow again and again.
How could one cry so much for someone who no longer cared about you?
You imagined him with that girl—the one you had seen at a party he had taken you to. Her hair shone in the light, she spoke easily to everyone, her outfits always perfect, her age… everything you weren’t. And every time, it reminded you how much you doubted yourself.
You had never felt this for anyone, and it sometimes burned your lungs, stealing your breath.
When you arrived somewhere to find him, you always watched from afar, moving in a world that seemed to belong to him, surrounded by people fascinated by Rafe Cameron, just as you were. And then he would eventually notice you, his smile softening when he saw you, while you felt fragile, vulnerable, like a deer frozen in car headlights.
He was so much more than you could give… and it terrified you, tightening your chest.
All those doubts that Rafe had once brushed away with a gesture, because he loved you… because it was forever. He had promised you.
Liar. Where were you now?
Your phone lit up, resting quietly on its holder, and Cleo’s face appeared as she called.
You didn’t touch it, letting the call go unanswered. You didn’t want to talk; she would understand.
She knew you missed him, that his presence acted as a shield for you… but you didn’t want to hear her say she was sorry, that the pain would eventually pass.
Your friends didn’t know him like you did, and they never would again.
What if you turned around? Took the path to his house… and he was there? Would it hurt to see him after all this time?
Maybe you could try. You didn’t have to stop, just attempt to catch a glimpse…
“Fuck.” Your tongue brushed your dry lips, the ache in your chest intensifying as you placed your hand over it for relief.
With the back of your hand, you brushed away the traitorous tears you’d been holding back, not wanting to appear weaker than you already felt. Not wanting to seem vulnerable.
And yet… he was the only one who could make you feel this way.
His face was everywhere: on those sidewalks you crossed without looking to get home faster, in that old abandoned fishing hut that had hosted your embraces.
There was also the bus shelter where he had sheltered you from the rain after an argument, his fingers teasing your cheek to make you speak, and that kiss to say sorry.
You could still hear his voice teasing you when you struggled with parallel parking, his impatience in traffic, the slam of the door when you swapped places because you were tired.
Every storefront, every building held a memory… and damn, why did you still love him so much?
It was over, you knew. He had told you months ago… but when would the pain fade?
When would you stop feeling his absence?
Why had you believed his “forever,” when you were alone in the car, like a soul adrift?
Sadness wrapping around your figure, you turned the key to cut the engine and parked in your spot. The headlights went out, darkness swallowing you, isolating you from the world, leaving you to wipe your eyes, catch your breath… and finally step out.
When you reached your doorstep, a small envelope awaited, tied to the handle with a fishing line, crude but careful.
Intrigued, you set your sadness aside for a moment to open it. Inside was a well-worn keychain, the cherries striped from falling countless times. You had always loved them on Rafe’s keys.
Recognition dawned slowly as you saw his elegant, neat handwriting:
“I knew you’d have it.”
Rafe Cameron masterlist JJ Maybank masterlist Steve Harrington masterlist
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