It was a lazy Saturday afternoon in the Outer Banks, and the sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden glow over everything. You had spent the day lounging around the chateau with the Pogues, but boredom was starting to creep in.
Just as you were about to suggest a beach trip, Rafe burst through the front door, an eager grin lighting up his face. "Hey! You guys want to do something fun?"
Kie looked up from her phone, raising an eyebrow. "What do you have in mind, Cameron?"
Rafe leaned against the doorframe, his eyes glinting with mischief. "I found this old jet ski down by the docks. We can take it out for a spin! Just a little bit of trouble, you know?"
John B perked up, enthusiasm shining in his eyes. "I'm in! When's the last time we had a good ride?"
You exchanged glances with Sarah, who shrugged. "Why not? Sounds like fun!"
With the group agreeing, you all piled into Rafe's truck and headed toward the docks. The anticipation of the thrill ride sent a buzz of excitement through you, and you couldn't help but sneak glances at Rafe as he drove, his carefree attitude infectious.
Once you arrived at the docks, Rafe led the charge toward the jet ski, a gleaming machine that looked a little worse for wear but still had a certain charm. "Alright, who wants to ride with me?" he asked, his grin widening.
You immediately stepped forward, your heart racing at the thought of being on the water with him. "I'll go!"
"Perfect! Let's do this!" Rafe helped you onto the jet ski, adjusting the life jackets before hopping on behind you.
As he started the engine, the roar echoed over the water, sending a thrill down your spine. "Hold on tight!" he shouted, and without another moment's hesitation, he sped off across the waves.
The wind whipped through your hair, and laughter bubbled up as you felt the rush of the ocean spray against your skin. Rafe expertly maneuvered the jet ski, taking sharp turns that made your heart leap with excitement.
After a while, he slowed down, letting the jet ski glide over the water. "How are you holding up?" he asked, leaning closer so you could hear him over the engine.
"Better than I thought I would! This is amazing!" You looked back at him, and he beamed with pride.
Just as you were about to say something else, Rafe suddenly turned the jet ski sharply, sending a wave of water crashing over the both of you. You squealed in surprise, laughing as you wiped the saltwater from your face.
"Sorry, couldn't resist!" he chuckled, a playful glint in his eyes.
Before long, however, the fun took an unexpected turn. As Rafe revved the engine and took off again, a sudden sputter interrupted the exhilarating ride. The jet ski started to lose power, and before you knew it, you were drifting to a stop in the middle of the water.
"What's happening?" you asked, a hint of panic creeping into your voice.
Rafe glanced around, his confident demeanor faltering. "I think we ran out of gas. Great."
You couldn't help but laugh. "You mean we're stuck out here?"
"Looks like it," he said, scratching the back of his neck. "Don't worry, I'll figure something out."
As the two of you floated on the still water, you could see the shoreline in the distance, but it felt much farther away than it should have. Rafe tried to restart the engine, but it was no use.
"Okay, plan B," he said, looking over at you with a grin that didn't quite reach his eyes. "We'll just wait for someone to come by."
You rolled your eyes, but deep down, you were grateful to be stuck with him. "So, what now? We just float here?"
"Yup," he replied, leaning back and propping his hands behind his head. "Enjoy the view."
You chuckled, shaking your head. "You're such a dork."
The two of you settled into a comfortable silence, the sun beginning to dip low on the horizon. You both watched as the sky turned shades of pink and orange, casting a warm glow over the water.
"Honestly, this isn't so bad," Rafe said, glancing over at you with a soft smile. "I'm glad I got to share it with you."
Just as you were about to reply, you spotted the familiar boat of the Pogues approaching in the distance. John B waved enthusiastically, and you felt a rush of relief.
Rafe sat up, a look of mischief returning to his eyes. "Well, I guess we'll have to explain why we're stranded out here."
You laughed, the earlier panic dissipating. "Just another day with you, right?"
As the boat pulled alongside, John B and the others helped you both back on board, their laughter ringing in the air. Rafe threw an arm around you, pulling you close as the group teased him about his "brilliant plan."
In that moment, surrounded by friends and the fading light of day, you realized that even the unexpected mishaps were part of what made being with Rafe so special. You might have started the day looking for trouble, but in the end, it was the laughter and camaraderie that truly made it unforgettable.
