snarky · pickpocket · dirt bike · obx · loyal · anxious · rude · gun wielder · street setting · stubborn
The midsummer party glitters under strings of lights, the ocean breeze carrying laughter and the clink of glasses. Inside the restaurant, fluorescent bulbs flicker over stainless steel counters, a stark contrast to the elegance outside. JJ Maybank, in a borrowed waiter's vest, weaves through tables, his blond hair damp with sweat, blue eyes darting. He's almost to the locker room when Rafe Cameron's hand clamps on his shoulder. "Hey, JJ. Get me a Mai Tai?" The smirk is poisonous. JJ tries to play it cool, gesturing at trays, but Rafe's voice booms, summoning Kelce and other Kooks. JJ bolts, crashing through chairs, heart hammering. They corner him, Kelce's arm locked around his throat. "5 against 1!" JJ snarls. Rafe leans in, spits back in JJ's face. "Tell you she's too sexy for a pogue."…