The sun was setting over the Outer Banks, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. You were sitting on the porch of the chateau, your legs crossed, enjoying the warm breeze. Rafe had invited his friends, Topper and Kelce, over for a casual hangout, and the atmosphere was lively with laughter and playful banter.
"Come on, Rafe, just one game of pool," Topper challenged, shooting a playful glance your way. "We all know you can't resist showing off."
Rafe smirked, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Fine, but I'm not going easy on you just because you're my friends." He winked at you, a playful smile on his face, before walking over to the pool table.
As the guys set up the game, you leaned back in your chair, feeling content. You loved seeing Rafe in his element, surrounded by his friends, but you also couldn't shake the feeling of unease that crept in as Topper and Kelce began to playfully tease him.
"Hey, Rafe, don't let her distract you," Kelce joked, gesturing toward you. "We know how much you like showing off for your girl."
You chuckled, but Rafe's expression darkened. "I don't need to show off. I'm good enough without any distractions," he replied, his tone more serious than the playful banter suggested.
"Relax, man, we're just messing with you!" Topper laughed, but Rafe wasn't having it. He leaned against the pool table, arms crossed, his jaw set in a way that made you smile at his protectiveness.
"I know you're joking, but don't make it sound like I'm some kind of show-off," Rafe replied, his gaze locked on Topper with an intensity that made you feel both amused and touched.
You could see Topper's demeanor shift slightly as he raised his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright, chill. Just having some fun," he said, a hint of seriousness breaking through.
"Yeah, but don't forget who you're talking to," Rafe shot back, his eyes softening when he turned to you. "I've got her back, always."
The playful tension broke, and you felt a warm flutter in your chest at Rafe's words. You stood up, walking over to him and wrapping your arms around his waist. "I know you do, and I appreciate it," you said, looking up at him with a smile.
Rafe smiled back, his protective demeanor softening in your embrace. "Just looking out for you, babe."
"Enough with the serious stuff! Can we please just play?" Kelce interjected, trying to lighten the mood as he repositioned the cue balls. Rafe rolled his eyes but let out a chuckle, his tension easing.
As the game continued, you watched Rafe in action, amazed at how effortlessly he played. He was fierce but playful, showing off a little as he sunk ball after ball. You could see his confidence radiating, and you couldn't help but cheer him on.
"Go, Rafe!" you shouted, clapping your hands.
"See? She's my lucky charm," he said, glancing at you with a playful grin. "I can't lose with her cheering for me."
You felt a rush of warmth at his words, your heart swelling with affection. Just then, Topper made a snide comment, joking about how Rafe was getting distracted again. But before you could even react, Rafe shot him a warning look.
"Easy, Topper," Rafe said, his tone low. "Just remember who's playing. I'd hate for you to end up on the wrong side of my cue."
You were taken aback by the fierce protectiveness in his voice. Rafe had always been playful, but in this moment, he was all seriousness. Topper raised his hands again, smirking but backing off.
"Alright, alright! I was just messing around. No need to go all 'protective boyfriend' on me."
Rafe turned back to you, and his demeanor softened again. "Sorry if I overreacted. I just don't want anyone to think they can mess with you."
You smiled up at him, feeling safe in his presence. "I love that you care so much. But you don't have to protect me from your friends. They're just joking."
"I know, but you're my priority," he said, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear, his gaze unwavering. "Always."
The sincerity in his voice made your heart skip a beat. You leaned in, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek. "And you're mine."
The game continued, but now it was filled with a sense of camaraderie and laughter. You could see how much Rafe valued your relationship, and it warmed your heart to know he would stand up for you, no matter what.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the chateau, you knew that moments like these—filled with laughter, love, and a hint of protectiveness—were what made your relationship with Rafe truly special.
