Outer Banks Imagines ~ JJ and Rafe

Rafe ~ please don't be in love with someone else

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The bonfire flickered against the night, casting shadows that danced along the sand and sparking cheers as Rafe raised a glass, pulling Sofia close to his side. You couldn't look away, your eyes glued to his easy smile, the way he looked at her like she was the only one in the world.

Inside, you silently repeated, please don't be in love with someone else. 

The words echoed, more desperate each time, as you tried to force down the ache in your chest. You told yourself it was over; he'd made his choice. But seeing him there with her, so public, so sure—it made it all feel real in a way you hadn't been ready for.

Then, you felt arms slip around your waist, a warmth pulling you back into the moment. JJ's familiar, easy embrace grounded you, his chin resting on your shoulder as you looked over, smiling. He leaned in, murmuring something playful in your ear.

Unaware to you was Rafe's eyes locked onto you from across the fire. His smile faltered, the confidence that always radiated from him flickering away, replaced with something darker. He watched the way JJ held you, how you tilted your head just so, laughing at whatever he'd whispered. There was a yearning in his stare, mixed with a bitterness that made his jaw tense as he took you in, fully wrapped in someone else's arms.

In his mind, if only you could hear it: please don't be in love with someone else.