The sun had set over the Outer Banks, leaving a cascade of stars twinkling against the deep navy sky. You and Rafe had driven out to a secluded spot, far from the bustling beach parties and the noise of the town. It was just the two of you, laying on the hood of his truck, a blanket sprawled out beneath you.
"This is nice," you said, glancing over at Rafe, who was lying next to you, his arms folded behind his head. His hair caught the moonlight, and you couldn't help but smile at how carefree he looked.
"Yeah," he agreed, his gaze fixed on the stars. "Way better than being cooped up with the Pogues."
You laughed softly, recalling how Rafe had insisted on getting some fresh air, away from the group dynamics that often stressed him out. "I thought you loved hanging out with them."
"I do," he replied, turning his head to look at you, "but sometimes I just need this—just us."
A warmth spread through you at his words. You turned your attention back to the sky, pointing out the constellations as they appeared, your voice filled with excitement. "Look! There's Orion."
Rafe followed your finger, his expression softening. "You really know your stuff."
"I read a lot," you admitted, shrugging playfully. "Besides, it's kind of romantic, isn't it?"
He chuckled, rolling onto his side to face you. "Yeah, it is. You make everything feel more... special."
You felt your cheeks warm at his compliment. "I just want to make memories with you, Rafe. Moments like this."
He shifted closer, propping himself up on his elbow. "You make me want to be better."
You raised an eyebrow, surprised. "Better how?"
"Like, I don't know," he said, his tone thoughtful. "Less of a mess. More... grounded."
"You're not a mess," you replied firmly. "You're just you. And I love you for that."
Rafe's expression softened, and he leaned in, capturing your lips in a tender kiss. It was sweet and soft, a moment that felt like it lasted forever. When he pulled back, he looked into your eyes, a mixture of vulnerability and adoration on his face.
"You have no idea how much that means to me," he murmured.
You smiled, feeling a rush of warmth wash over you. "Just promise me one thing."
"Anything," he replied, his voice serious.
"Don't ever change who you are for anyone else."
Rafe chuckled, his eyes sparkling. "Well, if who I am is the guy who gets to be with you, then I think I'm doing just fine."
The two of you laid back on the hood of the truck, fingers intertwined, staring up at the stars. In that moment, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the night, everything felt perfect. You knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, as long as you were together, you could face anything.
