#outer banks au | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

fandomxpreferences · 11 months

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Game On Chapter One: Beer Pong and Bad Reputations

Series Masterlist

Pairing: Frat! and Hockey! JJ x female!reader

TW:18+, sexual comments, alcohol consumption, I think thats it

Summary: You catch the attention of a certain blonde boy from back home when you attend a Frat party with your best friends.

Word Count:2.5k

A/N:this is kind of a half AU where they're still from OBX, but went to college instead of trying to die on a treasure hunt

"I don't know, Sarah. We have finals coming up and-"

You're cut off by Sarah and Kie scoffing in unison while making eye contact through the mirror.

"Which is exactly why you need to fucking relax, Y/N! One night isn't going to kill you." Kie reasons, and you don't get a moment of reprieve before Sarah joins in.

"Besides, there'll be plenty of hot guys just waiting to get you under them. Let loose."

You scrunch up your nose at the insinuation, and Sarah tosses a dress at your head.

"Here, put this on so we can go."

You sigh dejectedly, knowing that there's no use in arguing. They're going to make you go either way, so you might as well try to have fun.

"Fine." You grumble, both girls cheering when you slip on the article of clothing. Your eyes widen when you see yourself in the mirror, turning to face your best friends.

"I look.." You trail off trying to find the right word that won't offend Sarah seeing as the dress belongs to her, only to have your sentence finished for you.

"Hot! You look hot, babe." Kie claps, and you give her a skeptical look. You can't deny that it flatters your figure, hugging your curves in all the right places and propping your boobs up in a way that's just above scandalous.

"You always used to be the life of the party, Y/N/N. Let that crazy bitch back out for the night." Sarah encourages.

You mull over the idea for a moment before smiling deviously, and the two girls give each other a knowing look. You suppose it won't hurt to let your hair down for once and forget about all the stresses college brings.

Sarah forces you down in a chair while she starts on your makeup, and Kie styles your hair so that it looks carefree yet sleek at the same time. You flash a grin at your reflection before slipping on a pair of heels and starting toward the door.

"Okay, girls. Let's show them how to party the Outer Banks way."

You aren't sure which Frat your friends are going to, but it doesn't matter. By the time you pull up, the party is in full swing with thumping bass and drinks flowing. You turn to Sarah when you see the banner housing the Greek letters and narrow your eyes.

"Isn't this the frat with the guys from back home?" You ask and she shrugs casually.

"I think so. Does it matter?"

You purse your lips before grinning, and she matches your expression.

"Not even a little bit."

The three of you make your way inside, instantly gravitating toward the drinks. You make yourself a cocktail in a red cup, waiting for the girls to finish before sauntering back out to the main area.

There are people everywhere; some dancing, some making out in the corners, and some playing various drinking games like beer pong. You lock eyes with Sarah, and she nods in agreement.

The three of you make your way towards the table, an innocent look in your eyes as you lock onto your prey. Three guys that have no idea what's about to hit them, too focused on the expanse of skin and body glitter standing before them in the form of sorority girls.

You know they recognize you to some degree; Sarah is the president of your sorority with you holding the title just beneath her, and Kie is always with you.

"Mind if we play?" You ask sweetly, and without hesitating they all agree with excitement.

They refill the cups that have been emptied, one of them handing you the ping pong ball with an over-the-top grin.

"Ladies first."

You thank him with a bat of your eyelashes, taking your shot and intentionally missing. You pout, feigning disappointment while Kie reassures you. The guy that handed you the ball laughs lightly and flashes you a smile.

"Don't worry sweetheart, you'll get the hang of it."

You shoot a sideways glance at the girls, hiding your smirk. He's fallen into your trap hook, line, and sinker. You look him over, noticing his messy black hair and tan skin. He's cute, but not cute enough for you to let him win.

This goes on for the first couple of rounds, the three of you pretending to suck while downing the cups as they sink the balls. Once you're sure that you have them fooled, your face drops from sweet to dark and you shoot the guy a wink.

He watches as you line up your shot, tossing the ball into the cup without touching the rim. You watch his smile disappear, his buddies observing with wide eyes as you continue to demolish them.

Once you make the winning shot, Sarah and Kie cheer while pulling you into a hug. You celebrate for a moment before turning back to the men and walking forward. Your hand comes up to pat the side of the man's face mockingly, and you speak using the same condescending tone he had in the beginning.

"Don't worry, sweetheart. I'm sure you'll have better luck next time."

Sarah and Kie laugh while you all move away, going to refill your now empty cups. Little do you know, you garnered the attention of a certain blonde-haired boy that's following you with his eyes.

You seem familiar to him, yet he can't quite place how he knows you. He figures he must have just seen you around campus before his eyes light up with realization. His hand swats at the man to his left as he nods toward you.

"Hey, isn't she a pogue? We went to school with her right?" He asks, and John B frowns as he racks his brain.

"Yeah, yeah she's that one girl that was always at every Kegger. Wasn't she deemed queen of keg stands or something?" He replies, and JJ nods eagerly.

"Shit, yeah. Why weren't we friends with her again?" He frowns, and Pope pipes up from his other side.

"She was always hanging around kooks."

JJ sucks his teeth, memories of you laughing at the country club coming back to him.

"Riiight, she was close with Sarah Cameron and her asshole brother. He was always lurking behind her like a fucking pitbull." He scoffs, and John B directs his friend's attention back to you as you emerge from the kitchen.

"Looks like she still is." He grimaces, observing as you laugh loudly while standing between Sarah and Kie.

John B can practically hear the gears turning and narrowly misses JJ's arm when he pushes off the wall.

"I'm gonna go talk to her."

Pope's eyes nearly bulge out of his head as he tries to stop his friend along with John B.

"JJ, I don't think that a good- and he's gone."

John B shakes his head, eager to see how this blows up in JJ's face.

"Well, this will be interesting."

You're in the middle of telling Sarah a story when you notice a figure stop in front of you. Your head turns to face him, eyebrows raising when you see his dimpled smile directed at you.

"Hey, cupcake."

You cast a glance at Kie as she shrugs, and smile slowly.

"Hi." You answer hesitantly, but this only seems to spur him on.

"Oh come on, you don't remember me? Surely I made some kind of impression on you." He teases, and you pretend to be confused. Unbeknownst to him, you know exactly who he is. Which is why you want to fuck with him.

JJ was always known as a player in high school, tales of his sexual escapades scarring you one too many times. He slept with any girl that would allow him to, and given his good looks there weren't many that turned him down.

"I'm sorry. Am I supposed to know you?"

You watch in amusement as his confidence deflates before you let out a laugh.

"I'm just fucking with you, Maybank. I remember you. How could I not? I saw your nudes sophomore year."

That cocky smirk is right back on his face like it never left as Sarah and Kie slowly back away.

"Like what you saw?" He teases, and you take a sip of your drink while holding eye contact over the rim of the cup.

"I've seen better." You shrug, and his tongue darts out to wet his lips as he nods.

"Bet you've never had better, though." He quips, but it doesn't cause you to blush the way he was hoping. You seem immune to his charm, and it intrigues him as much as it pisses him off.

"That's not a winning bet there, surfer boy." You bark, and his eyes twinkle at your ability to match his energy.

"We'll just have to find out, won't we princess?"

Your eyebrows raise at his pickup line, and you shake your head with a chuckle.

"You thought that was smooth didn't you, Barbie? In your dreams.

His nose crinkles at your dig, and you can't deny the butterflies in your stomach caused by the banter.

"Oh most definitely. How about we make a deal?"

This catches your attention, and your eyes rake over him slowly before coming back to meet his ocean eyes.

"What would that be, exactly?" You ask, and the look he gives you screams trouble.

"We play a round of beer pong. Me and my guys against the three of you. Happy to see you still associate with kooks, by the way."

He lets out a gag at the end of his sentence and you roll your eyes before quirking a brow.

"What does the winner get?" You question, and he pretends to think for a second.

"If we win, I get your number. If you win, you get my number and the ball is in your court."

You take another drink, pondering the offer in your mind.

"What makes you think I want your number?"

He takes a step forward, now close enough that you can smell his sweet and spicy cologne as he speaks low enough for only you to hear.

"The way your thighs have been rubbing together ever since you mentioned seeing my cock."

Your eyes widen for a split second, and he smirks before taking a step back as if he didn't just call you out.

"Fine. It's a deal."

You motion the girls over as JJ does the same, and they all follow you to the beer bong table. You're just intoxicated enough to go through with it, and Sarah sends you a curious glance.

You wave her off, competitiveness taking over as JJ sinks his first shot. Unlike the other guys, the three men opposite you are an actual threat. This isn't a regular game; this is Pogue versus Pogue.

Not only Pogues but the two reigning champions of the Cut. It's neck in neck, the two of you trying to distract each other as you make shot after shot. It's down to the last cup and you take a deep breath before tossing the ball.

You throw your hands up in victory when come out the winner, and JJ closes his eyes while tossing his head back. You give him a shit-eating grin while handing him your phone, knowing you don't intend to ever touch the contact.

What you don't expect is for him to text himself so he has your number too.

"That wasn't the deal!" You exclaim, and he hands the device back to you with a playful smile.

"Never said how I was gonna give it to you."

Your eyes narrow at the boy, doing your best to appear angry when you're actually fighting a grin.

"You tricked me." You accuse, and he leans his hands against the table to get in your personal space.

"I wouldn't say tricked so much as outsmarted, Keg Queen."

The way his eyes rake over your figure makes your skin burn, something between fascination and lust swirling within them. He can't help but think God has a plan that's being executed right in front of him, and though he doesn't consider himself to be spiritual, he thinks you might just be a new religion that he'll fall to his knees and worship.

"Don't get used to it, pretty boy."

His heart rate accelerates upon hearing the nickname, and he wonders if he'll make it out of this alive. Probably not, but what a ride it will be.

"Clever as the devil and twice as pretty. I like that." He grins, popping a toothpick in his mouth and making a show out of twirling it with his tongue.

Your eyes drop to his mouth in a fleeting glance, but he notices nonetheless.

"You're dangerous, Maybank." You breathe, and he leans in even closer so that his lips are nearly brushing yours.

"All the best things are."

Your breath hitches and you take a step back, inhaling deeply to try and ground yourself. The other four glance around at each other, almost uncomfortable with the sexual tension floating in the air.

JJ stands up straight, never breaking eye contact while taking a long swig from his cup.

"I'm gonna text you the details for my next game, and I'll have my jersey waiting for you at the entrance." He finally says, taking off his backwards cap and placing it on your head.

He shoots you a wink before walking off and you call out to him.

"You forgot your hat!"

He turns to face you, still walking back ward and gives you a blinding smile.

"Keep it, cupcake. Looks better on you anyway."

The girls wait until Pope and John B follow him before Sarah slaps you on the arm.

"What the fuck was that?" She asks with wild eyes, and you turn to face her with your mouth gaping open. You open and close it a few times, trying to find the words, before finally settling on shaking your head.

"I have no idea, but I've got a feeling it's going to happen a lot."

Before either of them can reply, your phone vibrates in your pocket and you pull it out.

Friday at 7. I'll have tickets set aside for you and the figure eight princesses.

You can't help the smile that pulls at your lips and lock your phone, not giving him the satisfaction of a quick response. It doesn't make a difference; JJ watched you read the message from across the room while John B shook his head.

"This is a bad idea, J." He sighs, but it does nothing except spur the blonde on.

"You know my stance on bad ideas, JB."

His friend nods, well acquainted with his best friend's go-get-em outlook on life. They watch as the three of you walk out the front door, no doubt in for a long night of gossip and giggles.

"What's your end game here, man?" Pope asks, and the grin that JJ gives him makes him nervous.

"Having the two of you fight over who gets to be the best man at our wedding." He replies, and Pope's eyes flutter closed in annoyance.

"Glad to see we're remaining realistic."

JJ just laughs and slaps his shoulder before starting toward the kitchen. He stops and turns around just long enough to point at JB.

"Bring your A-game on Friday. We're gonna have some new faces in the crowd."

John B presses his lips together with a nod, watching as his friend carries on his original path. What could possibly go wrong?

@genius2050@sweetestdesire

#jj maybank imagine #jj maybank x reader #jj maybank fic #jj maybank #jj maybank series #jj maybank au #outer banks imagine #outer banks fic #outer banks series #outer banks au #obx imagine #obx fic #obx au #obx

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of-many-aus · 1 year

Text

Why JJ calls you ‘Bambi’

Summary: the reason jj calls you that aggravating nickname

Warnings: none

A/N: this takes place approximately three years before the main series

Hate Myself for Loving You Masterlist

･｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ･｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ･｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ.

“I don’t know, JB,” You said hesitantly, “This might not be a good idea.”

Your brother threw his head back with a groan, “Come on, you’re twelve now. It’s about time you learned.”

“What if I’m not good at it, though?” You had begun nervously playing with your hands.

“That’s why I’m here,” He said reassuringly, gently tapping his surfboard against yours, “Now, let’s go. The waves are great today.”

With that, John B began wading into the ocean water, but you stayed back a moment, still hesitating.

“I’m pretty sure you’re the only person on this island that didn’t learn how to surf when you were seven.” The aggravating voice of none other than JJ Maybank sounded in your ear like a chirping bird that wouldn’t shut up in the morning.

A scowl immediately formed on your lips, and instead of answering the boy, you surged forward, hopefully leaving him behind.

Your prayers didn’t seem to be answered though, because you heard some splashing behind you that told you he had followed with his own surfboard.

“Out here!” John B waved you over from where he sat on his board a few yards out.

Slowly, you swam and pushed your surfboard to where he was.

JJ laughed, “You have to get on it,” He called, paddling up beside you.

You stifled a groan, closing your eyes and tilting your head to face the heavens, “Did he really have to be here?” You asked your brother with a slight whine in your voice.

He just shrugged, “I didn’t invite him, he just tagged along.”

A glare was thrown in the blond boy's direction by you, “Hear that? You weren’t invited. So get out of here.”

His mouth opened, no doubt to let out a smart ass comment, but John B interrupted with an exhausted sigh, “Guys, stop it.” He was long since used to your bickering.

He sent a warning look in his best friend's direction, “We’re here to teach her how to surf. If you’re not going to either help or stay quiet, then leave.”

He chose to stay quiet.

For the next half hour, your brother went through the motions with you, teaching you how to stand correctly and how to catch a wave.

JJ stayed silent the whole time, and you were grateful. It was probably the longest he had ever gone without talking.

“- no, move your foot closer to the center-“ Your brother instructed you, only to be cut off by toppling over the side of his board. He hadn’t been paying attention to an incoming wave.

You sighed tiredly as he was submerged, knowing he was fine, but still tired from all the work it took to learn.

Just then, a laugh sounded from the side, causing your head to whip over and eyes to narrow in onto the Maybank boy.

“What?” You snapped.

“N-no, it’s- it’s just…” He laughed again, “You look like Bambi from that old Disney movie during the scene where it tried walking for the first time. It’s like you trying to stay standing on that thing.”

Your cheeks flushed red just in time for John B to resurface.

“Okay,” he said, “Are you ready to try again?”

“Yeah, Bambi,” JJ spoke with a wide grin, “Ready to try again?”

It took everything in you not to lunge across the water and tackle him off his board.

Taglist: none

#hate myself for loving you series #jj maybank au #jj maybank x reader #jj maybank x you #jj maybank #jj maybank x y/n #outer banks #outer banks x y/n #outer banks x you #outer banks x reader #outer banks au #john b routledge x sister reader #john b routledge x reader #john b routledge x you #john b routledge x y/n #10 things i hate about you #10 things i hate about you au #10 things i hate about you x reader

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yns-world · 1 year

Text

always & forever

part i of the euphoria au!outer banks series

part ii part iii part iv

title: always & forever

pairing: euphoria au!rafe cameron x reader

warnings: toxic relationship, mention of toxic family, murder, obsession, rafe cameron as his own warning, ooc rafe

a/n: this was inspired by this playlist. i highly recommend listening to it while reading <3

fem reader, race not mentioned, size not mentioned

italics = Rue narrating

normal text = scenes of their relationship

Ah, Rafe and Y/N. The token toxic couple at East Highland High School. Their relationship had a different dynamic than Nate’s and Maddy’s. Nate and Maddy don’t know how to leave each other alone, but Rafe and Y/N simply won’t let each other go. Rafe and Y/N would rather burn each other alive than to ever leave each other.

These two started dating at the beginning of junior year, when Rafe first moved here. Some say it was love at first sight, others say it was because crazy recognized crazy.

Rafe took a step into the main entrance, unconsciously chewing on his thumb out of nervousness. The noise, the stares, the people-- it was all too much. But just as he was about to ditch, he locked with a certain pair of eyes. They were so calm, so warm. They beckoned him, and he felt himself walking towards her.

“You new here?” She asked, her voice light. But Rafe was still too nervous to speak, he could only nod. “You’re so cute when you bite your thumb.” The girl pinched Rafe’s cheeks and chuckled.

Their relationship was a heavy one, with obsession on both ends. In just a few weeks, Rafe became notorious for his anger outbursts and nobody could stand to be around him-- nobody except Y/N.

As part of their nightly routine, Rafe crawled through Y/N’s window and curled up in her lap. They stayed like that for hours. Some nights they’d talk, but on nights like these, they were silent, trying to recuperate from their own lives.

As Y/N stroked Rafe’s hair, she thought about just how similar he looked like a puppy. He was just one big, hurt puppy.

But not everything was sunshine and rainbows in Rafe and Y/N’s world, they both were deeply flawed. Rafe was extremely possessive and controlling, and given Y/N’s past with her controlling family, she couldn’t stand it.

And then there was Y/N’s constant changing moods and her fleeting attention. She was always looking for something new-- that’s what attracted her to Rafe in the first place-- so you can only imagine how hard it must be for Rafe to keep her attention and love when she’s always looking elsewhere.

These two were always taking “breaks” but were never on and off like how Nate and Maddy were; their possessiveness would never allow them to give them that much room.

But I guess their jagged flaws are what allowed them to piece together so perfectly.

In the week of Nate’s and Maddy’s break up, those two were doing everything in their power to ignore each other. Meanwhile, as Y/N walked past Nate in the hallway, Rafe was desperately jogging after her.

“Y/N! Y/N, please!” Rafe pushed through the crowd and latched onto her arm. With his tall build, he could easily overpower Y/N but a single stare from her was enough to check him.

Rafe ignored her stare and pulled her into the nearest bathroom, locking the door behind them.

“Y/N, I can’t do this. I can’t be away from you.” Her face was as cold as stone, her eyes unmoving. Rafe always preferred Y/N when she was angry-- she would hit his chest, scream until her throat was sore, but he could always reel her in and calm her down in his arms.

When she was angry, it was because she cared.

But he couldn’t stand her silence. There was nothing he could do when she had no reaction.

Rafe broke down, grabbing onto her shoulders and sobbing.

"I need you, I can't live without you. You're the only one who gets me. You're the only person who sees me."

Rafe cups Y/N’s face and leans down until his lips are centimeters from hers.

“I could never let you go.”

He sealed his promise with a kiss that sucked all the air from her lungs.

In some ways, Rafe was worse than Nate. Nate might’ve been crazy, but Rafe was crazier; Rafe had nothing to lose except Y/N.

Nobody has proof that Rafe is a killer, but it was pretty coincidental that the same QB that Y/N was flirting with had died the next week.

On the day that the beloved QB was pronounced dead over the school speakers, Y/N and Rafe were walking through the halls, hand-in-hand, as if nothing could ever bring them down. To pour salt in the wound, Rafe had publicly gifted her a bouquet of primroses, a unique and uncommon choice of flowers. But these were one of Y/N’s favorite flowers because of their meaning. Primroses meant devotion and everlasting love; they meant that one could not live without their other half.

A warm smile lit up Y/N’s face.

“You’re so sweet, Rafey.” She gave him a peck on the lips.

“That’s not all.” Rafe dug in his pocket and retrieved a black velvet case, revealing a sapphire teardrop pendant necklace.

Her excitement meant the world to him, it was all he lived for. It was all he cared about. He could never let anyone come between him and Y/N; they had something eternal, something that no one else could possibly comprehend.

Nate was capable of killing Maddy, but Y/N was capable of killing Rafe— for his heart was in her hands. He would let her kill him again and again, and he wouldn’t say a word. In fact, he enjoyed every time she went out of her way to ruin him. It was just another opportunity to prove his love, to prove his devotion.

a/n: DON’T BE A GHOST READER!!!!! let me know your thoughts, opinions, ideas, etc in the comments!!! i love talking with y’all <333

if you enjoyed reading, please consider reblogging and tipping, they help my account more than likes :)

i had fun writing this, lmk if y’all want to see more euphoria au!rafe or just more rafe in general :)

if y’all have any ideas for euphoria au!rafe or any ideas in general, then please don’t hesitate to send them!!! i want to write more content for rafe immediately <3

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cakesunflower · 23 days

Text

lovelorn (and nobody knows) [rafe cameron au fic] chapter 1

Summary: Isla Carrera had planned for the summer before college to be focused on three things: helping out at her family's restaurant (the helpful daughter), preparing for college (the good student), and having fun with the Pogues (the loyal friend). But one fateful night, where her car breaks down and her rescuer is none other than Rafe Cameron, seems to send her summer down a path she didn't see coming--one teeming with a secret, illicit romance with the last person she expected. And if her friends and sister found out, Isla isn't sure they'll be so understanding, no matter what her feelings are.

Author's Note: I forgot how much I absolutely loathe writing summaries LOL but anyways! First chapter is here, let me know if y'all vibe with it. I had fun writing it and if you wanna see more, let me know! (And now I have to figure out if I remember linking everything on my blog since I haven't posted my writing on Tumblr in forever. . .)

Chapter 1

“Oh, no. No, no, no. Don’t do this to me, please.”

Isla Carrera’s pleading is in vain as the engine of her car sputters out of life, and there’s just enough juice left for her to pull over onto the side of the dirt road so she’s not stranded in the middle. Her grip on the steering wheel remains tight as she sits in silence, staring out onto the dark road only lit up by the two beams of her headlights. The small silver lining, if there is one, is that she knows exactly where she is, just a little ways away from a row of houses on Figure Eight. But right now, she’s surrounded by trees on a road that has no street lamps, the sky a blanket of black above her.

Her groan cuts through the silence, eyes squeezing shut as she rests her forehead against the steering wheel. She should have just slept over at John B’s house like her sister, Kie, decided to. But Isla’s covering another waitress at the restaurant early tomorrow, and she didn’t want to run late again or else her parents would rip her a new one. Kie’s shift wasn’t until later in the afternoon, so her sister was in no rush to get home. Now here Isla is, with a car that won’t turn over, still a fifteen minute drive away from her house.

“Fucking great,” she mutters, making sure her hazards are on and her phone is in her pocket before getting out of the car.

Though she knows nothing about cars, Isla pops open the hood and uses the flashlight on her phone. If she’s being honest, it all looks like a bunch of mechanical junk she has no idea how to work her way around. She’s not sure why she even bothers, so instead of wasting time, she unlocks her phone to find the number for a towing service.

A rumble of a car engine catches her attention, the kind that makes an annoying popping sound, and by the time she looks up and around the open top of her hood, she sees two guys hopping out of an old Ford truck. She vaguely recognizes them. Just by the look of them, they seem to be a couple of years older than her—and clearly from The Cut. Not that it matters, since her best friends are from the other side of the island, but not all of the people from The Cut are fond of those from Figure Eight, and vice versa. Isla and her sister, though they belong on the more privileged side of the island, prefer the freedom of The Cut.

None of that exactly matters right now, though.

Music cranks out of the car, but Isla can’t pay it any mind as unease creeps into her stomach when both sets of eyes land on her.

She’s a girl alone in the middle of a road at night, so Isla is immediately on high alert as the guys make their way towards her, slow but confident in a way that makes her feel like a prey. I don’t like this.

Alarm bells are ringing in her head as one of the guys in cargo shorts and a tank top shoots her a slimy grin. “Car trouble, sweetheart?”

Isla’s muscles tense. Yeah, nope. Not good. “Uh, no, all good,” she says, forcing some of that confidence into her voice that Kie is an expert at wielding.

The other one with darker hair hidden under a baseball cap asks, “You sure we can’t help?” His grin is anything but charming. “We’d be more than happy to help.”

They don’t stop their approach, and Isla’s mind begins running through different scenarios, her pulse beginning to quicken in panic she’s trying to keep at bay. There’s no one around to help, and she can’t depend on another car passing by and stopping to help—if they even would. She doesn’t want to lock herself in her car while she calls her dad or friends for help; the idea of sitting trapped makes her heart squeeze with dread.

“You can stop right there.” She doesn’t want to give into the fear that’s slithering through her veins, but she can’t stop the words from escaping her mouth, the crunch of the dirt beneath their shoes too daunting to ignore.

Her hand inches towards her back pocket where she had stashed her keys, fingers closing around the small can of pepper spray she’s got hooked in there. Isla has never had the unfortunate opportunity to use it before, but the vibes she’s getting right now—first time for everything.

“What’s the matter?” the first guy asks with a taunting tilt of his head, neither of them stopping their pace. “We’re only here to help.”

Yeah, fucking right. “Stop.” Her heart is pounding in her ears, taking a few steps back.

Creepy guy number two exchanges a look with number one. “See that, Dyl? Little Miss Kook looks a little scared.”

Oh, screw this. Isla refuses to stick around and find out what’s going to happen, and she doesn’t at all feel guilty when she juts her hand forward and presses down on the top of the small can. Her aim is a little off, so she only manages to spray the first guy—Dyl. The sound of his shriek of pain cuts through the air, and he stumbles back and spits out curses as he presses the heels of his palms into his eyes.

The second guy freezes in surprise, looking between Isla and his friend, but she doesn’t stick around to see what he’s going to do next. Instead, Isla turns and makes a run for it, making sure to press the button on her FOB to lock her car as she bolts down the dirt road. She can hear the guys yelling over the sound of the breeze rushing past her ears, fear fueling more power to her legs as she nears a neighborhood street at the end of the dirt road. Isla isn’t sure if they’re following her, or if they’re even going to, but she doesn’t pause to find out.

She runs and runs, her lungs beginning to burn, as she rounds a stone wall with greenery growing through the cracks that closes in a property—only for her vision to go black for a split second when she collides against something.

“Jesus fucking Christ.” Scratch that—make that someone, because instead of falling back on her ass, a strong pair of arms wrap around her waist to keep her from tumbling down. The grip is tight and secure, and a delicious aroma of what seems to be earthy wood tickles her nose. “What the hell are you—Isla?”

The sound of her name being spoken in that all too familiar voice clears Isla’s head, and she pulls back enough to look up into the startling blue eyes of Rafe Cameron. Her pounding heart seems to slow down a fraction, and she’s not sure what to make of the mild relief that calms down her frazzled nerves because this is Rafe Cameron. Sure, he might not be as bad as those two freaks, and he’s one of her close friends’ brothers, but he’s still the same guy that has gotten into more than a few fights with her best friends. That being said, she shouldn’t find as much comfort as she does being in front of him.

Her breathing is heavy, pulse throbbing uncontrollably. She only barely registers her hands gripping his forearms, like it’s grounding her as she takes in Rafe’s expression. His eyebrows are furrowed together as he looks down at her, his height towering over her five-foot five frame, and there’s more confusion than worry in his features, unsurprisingly. Her heavy breathy makes her privy to the scent of nicotine, glancing down to see a half used cigarette now laying forgotten on the ground.

“What the hell are you doing?” Rafe repeats. Isla hears the familiar thread of annoyance in his voice, but she can’t bring herself to give a damn.

She lets go of him like he’s electrocuted her, taking a step back and forcing him to let go of her, too. It takes everything in her not to acknowledge the way her skin burns where his had touched hers. “Going for a run, what does it look like?” she snaps back, though her voice trembles on her breath.

Rafe’s expression deadpans, though he arches an eyebrow under the dirty blonde bangs that frame his forehead. “Looks like you’re scared,” he states.

“I—” Isla gets cut off by the familiar sound of a car engine rumbling, the popping kind, and the breath locks in her throat as she glances over her shoulder. “Fuck,” she breathlessly mutters, catching sight of the headlights creeping up from around the corner on the road. She’s not sure if those guys are looking for her—though, she wouldn’t be surprised given that she pepper sprayed one of them, and her pulse quickens again in panic with the need to hide away.

“Wait—are you running from someone?” Rafe questions, and Isla looks back at him to see his gaze pointed over her head, right where the noise of the car is coming from. A car that sounds to be approaching too close.

“You’re asking too many questions,” Isla returns hastily, stepping to go around him. “I need to go—”

Rafe lets out an exasperated huff, and if she had all her wits about her, she’d snap at him. But instead, surprise slams through her when Rafe’s hand wraps around her bicep, his grip firm but not tight as he mutters, “Come here.”

Before Isla knows it, she’s being dragged through the gate of the Cameron estate, disappearing onto the property right when the car turns the corner. Her heart launches to her throat when Rafe suddenly turns her, and she’s being pressed against the stone wall, soft leaves pressing to her back in contrast to the hard surface.

Isla’s eyes widen when Rafe’s body presses against her, the air rushing out of her lungs as her gaze snaps up to meet his. “What are you doing?” she asks, her words a mere breath.

He seems surprised by his own actions, lips pursed and that muscle in his clean shaven jaw pulsing almost as quickly as her own heart. Can he hear the thundering, feel it? “Just—stay quiet,” Rafe grits.

Part of Isla wants to push him off—the part that sounds a lot like her friends. But fear wins out, keeping her in place, as she hears the car creep along in front of the gate of the Cameron property.

Rafe’s eyes silently tell her to remain quiet and something tightens her stomach—something other than fear—and it startles her enough to flick her gaze to the left, towards the vine wrapped gate. She can see the headlights slowly passing by, and she prays that these guys aren’t stupid enough to trespass private property.

Then again, they were ready to do God-knows-what to her, so who the hell knows?

The thought alone sends her heartbeat accelerating all over again, panic settling in her bones hard enough to rattle them. Isla’s hands fist at her sides, eyes squeezing shut as she leans her head back against the wall. How the hell had her night taken such a freaky turn? And how is it that Rafe Cameron, of all people, is the one to help her out?

Suddenly, the mid-May night doesn’t feel as warm as Rafe’s body; he isn’t close enough where his body is completely pressing into hers, but she can feel the soft material of his shirt fluttering against the bare skin of her stomach, thanks to her crop top. Isla can feel the heat of his skin seeping into hers, which makes her heart thunder with something other than panic, and she’s not entirely sure what the hell to do with that.

“Relax—they’re gone.”

His voice is low and gruff, a tone that makes goosebumps pebble her skin even in this warm weather. Isla opens her eyes with a sharp exhale and her brown eyes immediately find Rafe’s blue, her throat tightening under his scrutinizing gaze. True, she can’t hear the engine anymore, the headlights are also gone, and Isla tries to even out her breathing while nodding slowly.

Rafe’s eyes rake over her and shouldn’t she feel unsettled about that? About how close he’s standing to her? But it seems like all of her unease has been used up from evading those weirdos, so Rafe Cameron being her rescuer doesn’t annoy her as much as it normally would.

“So what was that about?” he questions, raising an eyebrow.

Isla’s throat works, dragging her gaze back up at him. The lamps spaced out along the wall light his face, casting shadows along his sharp cheekbones. He’s so handsome—the thought crosses through her mind quickly, and though she would never admit it to her friends, she can’t help but find the truth in it—as insane as it might be.

“Nothing to concern yourself with,” Isla finds herself saying, lifting her chin in a small act of defiance.

The corner of Rafe’s mouth twitches into a ghost of a smirk, and through the light reflecting in his eyes, she can see them dancing in amusement. “Given that I just saved your ass, an explanation would be nice.”

Isla scowls, all thoughts of his stupidly good looks vanishing. “I didn’t ask you to do that. I had it under control.”

It’s a lie spoken through her teeth, and Rafe can see that. “Yeah, looked real under control when you were running for your life,” he replies dryly, eyebrows rising. But then his expression flattens out, eyebrows furrowing together once again as he says, “Seriously, Isla. What gives? What the hell was that about?”

“Just—some fucking weirdos, I don’t know,” she huffs, frustration from this entire ordeal bubbling to the surface as she rubs her hands up her face and runs her fingers through her hair. “I—Can you back up?” she asks hastily, forcing a glare. Rafe, surprisingly, simply presses his lips together and raises his hands in defense while taking a couple of steps away from her. Isla is no longer embraced by his warmth, by his scent, and there’s an unexpected tug in her chest that she ignores. “My car broke down on that dirt path behind the road. I was trying to figure it out when these guys pulled up and, I don’t know, shit got weird so I made a break for it.”

Rafe frowns as he listens to her, and Isla shakes her head, rubbing the back of her neck. “I need to get back to my car,” she says.

“Seriously?” Rafe asks, scoffing. “You’re gonna go back when some freaks are looking for you?”

Isla glares at him, not at all appreciating him talking to her like she’s stupid. “My wallet’s still in my car. I need to grab it if they haven’t fucking broken into my car already.”

She moves past him to head to the gate, surprised to hear his footsteps as he easily catches up to her. “What, you’re gonna walk back?” When Isla glances at Rafe, he’s looking at her like she’s insane. No sign of the contempt he normally saves for her and her friends, which is slightly unnerving. “After you were just running from some freaks? You do realize how much of a bad idea that is, right?”

She shrugs even as the unease from before returns at the idea of running into those guys again. “I need to get my wallet,” is her meek response.

Rafe lets out a breath, running his fingers through his hair and Isla briefly frowns at herself at the way her gaze seems to run to the flex of his bicep. And the way her stomach fucking flutters because this is Rafe Cameron. The only fluttering her stomach should be doing where he’s concerned is one tinged with nausea.

Rafe then fixes her with a stern look. “Come on,” he says firmly before walking down the driveway of his house.

Isla blinks out of whatever stupor she was in and glares at his back—and at the demand he left her with. She scoffs, hands splaying in annoyance until she realizes he’s headed straight for his motorcycle. Her shoulders drop, rooted on the spot as she says flatly, “You’re joking.”

Rafe is already pulling out a helmet—scratch that, two helmets—and looking at her, once again, like she’s an idiot while she glares at him. At least there’s that bit of normalcy. “This—” He holds up both helmets in each hand. “Is better than you walking back to your car by yourself. Let’s go.”

Isla’s disbelief only intensifies. She doesn’t walk over to him, doesn’t take the proffered helmet. Instead, she exhales sharply and crosses her arms over her chest, asking, “Why are you helping me?”

Rafe has the gall to look annoyed by her question, arms resting at his sides. His gaze locks with Isla’s, but she doesn’t shy away from it as he eventually drops his head back with a groan before looking back at her once more. “Listen, contrary to your and your friends’ popular belief, I’m not a complete dick.” Isla can’t help but scoff and roll her eyes, cutting her gaze away from him in doubt. He cannot be serious. “I wouldn’t want either of my sisters to be fucking chased by some losers, so just think of this as my good deed of the month, alright? Now will you please take the damn helmet and get on the bike?”

Frankly, Isla feels like she’s just stepped into an alternate reality because, seriously, when was the last time Rafe Cameron ever did anything nice for her—if ever?

But as much as Isla’s pride is begging for her to tell him thanks but no thanks and turn and walk back to her car, fear still resides in the pit of her belly, waiting to strike. She hates to admit it, but Rafe is right. It’d be dumb of her to walk back alone at night after what just happened. Maybe she could call her sister or one of her friends, but that would just add unnecessary time to all this, and Isla just really wants to get home. So, fine; maybe she can accept Rafe’s offer to drive her to her car, and then from there maybe she can call an Uber home and call a tow truck from the safety of her bedroom.

Rafe holds out one of the black helmets in impatience, and Isla purses her lips as she pushes herself to walk over. She does her best not to admire the sight of him next to his bike, something she never would have done before tonight. Maybe this whole freaky situation has loosened some screws in her brain.

Isla all but snatches the helmet out of his hand, though a part of her feels as though it’s just for appearances’ sake to keep up her usual attitude around Rafe, and tucks her dark hair behind her ears before pulling the helmet on, the visor still up. She tries her best not to think of the weight of his gaze on her as she fiddles with the straps on her chin to secure the helmet, but she’s unable to get it right, fingers trembling despite herself.

“I got it,” Rafe says, and Isla freezes when he gently bats her hands away and steps up to her, using his finger to push at the bottom of the helmet so she can tilt her head back enough for him to see the straps. The heat of his body greets her once more and she’s silent as she feels him secure the straps, breath hitching quietly when the backs of his fingers brush against her skin.

He’s done within seconds, but it sure as shit feels longer as she remains standing there, watching him pull on his own helmet. Isla watches silently as Rafe gets on the bike, wondering how she got here, and he says, “Hop on.”

Isla has ridden on the back of JJ’s bike plenty of times, so she gets on with no trouble, though she does have to grip Rafe’s shoulders in order to do so. They’re broad and firm under her hands, and she mentally chastises herself for even thinking about his stupid shoulders. When she’s settled behind him, her legs framing his, Isla’s heartbeat picks up at the sudden proximity, her front against his back.

She’s sure she’s barely breathing when her skin warms because there’s barely any space that exists between them, and when Rafe tells her, “Hold on or risk flying off,” she can’t decide if she wants to smack him upside the head or beg for the ground to swallow her whole.

Sliding the visor down, Isla inhales deeply and quietly before winding her arms around Rafe’s waist, teeth gritting together because if her friends saw her now, they definitely would believe she’s lost her mind. The fact of the matter is, right now all she can seem to focus on is the solidness of his stomach against her arms and how fucking good he smells, which is confusing and overwhelming and everything in between.

The motorcycle’s engine roars to life, and seconds later Rafe is kicking off the kick-stand and they’re riding down the driveway and onto the road. She had told him her car stopped on the dirt path behind the actual road, separated by trees, and that’s all Rafe seemingly needs to know as he takes them in the right direction. The breeze as they go feels good against her, cooling her heated skin down and she would never admit it, but riding on the back of Rafe Cameron’s bike has a somewhat calming effect on her.

The tension that had tightened her muscles since her encounter with those other guys melts away, and the rapid thumping of her heart has nothing to do with anxiety and everything to do with the thrill of this moment. Maybe it’s ill advised, but it seems to be exactly what she needs as the night air mixes with Rafe’s cologne—or maybe he just smells like that in general?

God, she’s getting too weird about this.

Soon enough, her car comes into view and Isla is relieved when there seems to be no sign of those guys. Rafe stops the bike right next to her car, and another sigh of relief escapes her when she sees that her car doesn’t look damaged. Swinging her leg over, she uses Rafe’s shoulders as leverage to get off the bike, trying not to think too much about the loss of his body heat as she reaches for the helmet straps.

They’re easier to undo than they were to strap, and she lifts the helmet off, one hand already flattening her dark hair as Rafe holds his hand out for the helmet. As she unlocks the car, Rafe asks, “How’d you manage to outrun them?”

Isla leans into the driver’s seat, reaching for her tote bag in the passenger seat. She digs through it for a moment, taking stock of her wallet, lip gloss, lip balm, and the few other things still safely inside. “I pepper-sprayed one of them,” she answers as she pulls out and straightens.

When she turns to look at Rafe, whose helmet’s visor is up, she sees the smirk that curls at his mouth. How does a sight that made her want to knee him in the stomach before make her feel kind of weak kneed right now? Did those guys really freak her out so much that now down is up and left is right? “Nice,” he murmurs, nodding in approval. Jutting his chin towards her car, he asks, “You gonna call a truck?”

Isla shakes her head. “When I get home,” she says, pulling out her phone.

Rafe nods as he holds the helmet out once more. “Alright, let’s go.”

Isla pauses, gaze flicking up from her phone screen where the Uber app is open to look at him. Arching an eyebrow, she asks, “Uh, go where?”

He mirrors the arched eyebrow look. “I’ll take you home,” he says as if it’s obvious when it very much isn’t.

“No thanks. I can Uber,” she answers, already putting her home address in.

Rafe scoffs, shaking his head as he remains sitting on his bike. “You’re just full of bad ideas tonight, aren’t you?” he says. Isla’s eyes narrow, irritation sparking through her as he splays his arms out to gesture to the road they’re on. “You’re really gonna wait out here on a dirt road, with no street lamps, in the dark for an Uber when I’m offering you a ride home right now?” Before she can respond, he carries on, “On the same stretch of road, mind you, that you just got harassed on?”

The irritation intensifies, and Isla’s expression twists into a glare as she snaps, “What’s it to you, huh? You already did your good deed of the month. We’re not friends, Rafe. I don’t need your help.”

Even with the helmet on, she can tell he’s clenching his jaw, eyes hard as he sets them on her. The look makes her chest burn in a way that’s not all unwelcome, and that alone should be a sign that she’s losing it. “We may not be friends, but you’re my sister’s friend, alright? Sarah would kill me if she found out I left you out here by yourself. So stop being so fucking stubborn and get on the damn bike, Isla. I’m taking you home.”

She presses her tongue to her cheek, shoulders bunched in frustration while Rafe glares at her, his own impatience radiating off of him in waves. Sarah has told Isla how stubborn her brother can be, and while Isla doesn’t know Rafe well, she knows him and has dealt with him enough to know he isn’t budging on this. So, with a huff, she snatches the helmet once more, ignoring the protests in her head that sound suspiciously a lot like her friends as she pulls the helmet on.

She manages to get the straps this time and gets back on the bike, her bag securely hanging off her shoulder as Rafe starts the bike again and Isla swallows silently as she wraps her arms around his waist once more. Every part of her is warm where it touches him, and as he drives, she tilts her head back, practically begging for anyone listening to get her to calm the hell down.

Seriously—how the hell did Rafe Cameron become her would-be hero of tonight?

Luckily, her house is a ten minute drive from the Cameron house and Isla allows him to pull up to the front of the house, since Kie isn’t home and has no chance of peeking out her bedroom window and seeing Isla getting off Rafe’s bike. He parks the bike and Isla lets go of him almost immediately, hopping off the bike and undoing the straps of the helmet under her chin.

Rafe is already looking at her by the time she gets the helmet off, his blue eyes visible since the visor is lifted. With a close mouthed, saccharine smile, Isla all but shoves the helmet into his hands. “Thanks for the ride. Let’s never do this again.”

He scoffs as he shakes his head, but the smirk on his face is apparent. “Don’t have to tell me twice.”

Isla rolls her eyes and, without another word, turns towards her house. She’s on the front porch and fishing keys out when she glances to the right and sees Rafe still parked there, seemingly watching her. Her stomach does a stupid, weird flip as she unlocks the door and shoos him. “Go away,” she hisses, even though Kiara isn’t home and her parents wouldn’t care that Rafe dropped her off—hell, her mom would be thrilled, honestly.

Even from this distance, she can just picture Rafe’s arrogant smirk as he lifts a hand in a two fingered salute before revving the engine of his bike, and Isla clenches her jaw as he speeds off, the roar echoing down the block. Exhaling sharply, Isla shakes her head and walks into her house, shutting the door behind her just as she hears footsteps approaching her.

“Where have you been?” her mom asks, not demanding but more concerned.

Isla smiles sheepishly as she faces her mother. “Yeah, about that. . .”

51 notes · View notes

drabbles-mc · 1 year

Text

Appointment Only

Tattoo Artist!JJ x F!Reader

Moodboard and Fic created for @the-slumberparty Across the Universe Challenge: choose any AU for any character

Warnings: mentions of drugs, language

Word Count: 3.5k

A/N: I haven't written AU's like this for characters in years but this was actually super fun to write! It was nice to do something a little different with JJ, age him up a bit and give him his own life. I just want all of the good and fun things for him. Plus I think the idea of him with a bunch of tattoos is just 💯

OBX Taglist: @garbinge @passionatewrites (If you want to be added to any of my taglists, please let me know!)

JJ unlocked the front door of his shop, reaching above his head as he walked through, slapping the top of the doorframe. He whistled as he walked through the small shop, twirling his keyring around his finger. He flipped on the lights as he went, illuminating the walls covered in flash and other artwork by him and the two other people who tattooed in the shop with him.

He didn’t have any appointments booked until the afternoon, but a few days out of the week and if he was feeling motivated, he’d go in and open up the shop a couple hours early in case any walk-ins came along with something he could crank out before his appointments for the day. There would usually be a tour-on or two looking for simple things that he could take care of quickly. Nothing that really flexed his creative muscles, but money was money and he had no problem taking it from rich tour-ons.

Once all the lights were on and he checked that everything was in order, he hooked up the shop phone to the speakers and put some music on. When he was finally happy with the song choice, he went and flipped the “closed” sign to “open”. He also propped the door open. It negated the bells that hung above it, but to him there was no point in being so close to the beach if he couldn’t hear some of the waves when things quieted down.

It wasn’t as though there was a long line of people waiting to come in. Since that was the case, JJ took the opportunity to work on some other designs he’d started. He had a few for specific clients that just needed some finishing touches, but what he really wanted to work on was a fresh idea that had come to him in the middle of the night the night before. He’d thrown a crude sketch of it onto a piece of scrap paper at his house so he wouldn’t lose the gist of it, but he was itching to really start putting it together. He grabbed his tablet that had all of his designs saved to it, plopped down in a chair, and got to work.

He was hunched over his tablet, stylus flying in his hand when he heard someone knock against the open glass front door. Looking up, the furrow of focus in his brow softened almost instantly when he saw you standing there.

You gave an awkward smile and a small wave when he looked at you. Clearing your throat, you said, “Hey, I was, um, I was wondering if anyone here had time for a consult?” You glanced around. “Guess I should just be asking you, huh?” you said with a soft laugh.

He flashed you a smile as he leaned forward, setting his tablet to the side. “Yea, it’s just me right now. Everyone else comes in later.”

You nodded. “Right. Well, then,” you walked closer to him, “do you have time for a consult?”

He was practically beaming as he stood up from his seat. “I think I just might.” He held his hand out for you to shake and that’s when you got a good glimpse of the tattoos going up the entire inside of his arm. “I’m JJ.”

You shook his hand as you gave him your name in return. “Nice to meet you.” You felt like you were supposed to be giving more of an introduction of yourself but you didn’t really know where to start. “I just moved here a few weeks ago, so I’m still getting a lay of the land a bit.”

“Well,” he chuckled as he pulled an extra chair up by his for you to sit in, “welcome to Paradise on Earth.”

You laughed as you sat down across from him. “Thank you.”

“Actually, before we get started…” He motioned for you to wait as he got up from his seat. He walked to the small area that passed for a seating area and grabbed one of the binders from the small table. He handed it over to you. “This is pretty much all of my recent work. You can tell me what you’re thinking for a tattoo, and I’m happy to help ya, but if you don’t like my style there isn’t much of a point, right?”

You laughed, nodding as you opened the binder. “I guess that’s true.”

You paused as you looked at the photos of his work in front of you. Your eyes grew wide as you took them all in. Most of them were nautical-themed, which wasn’t surprising to you given where you were. There were a handful of fun, silly tattoos as well, things you were certain had to be inside hokes to the people who got them.

All the pieces were well done, though. Bright colors, clean lines—it all looked crisp. You looked back and forth between JJ and his body of work. He wasn’t looking at you, instead looking at the page you were on. You drank in the sight of him in his cargo shorts and cut-off shirt, his boots covering some of the tattoos on his legs. Looking at him and his designs right next to each other, it all made sense.

“These are beautiful, JJ,” you finally said.

He smiled shrugging nonchalantly. “I do alright.” He paused. “Thank you, though. Still, you know, wanna talk about what you were planning?”

Your smile stretched side. “Yea, definitely.”

“Alright,” he said with a nod as he grabbed his notebook, “tell me what you’re thinking.”

The two of you sat and talked for a while, mostly about your tattoo but he did get around to asking you a bit about yourself. Any time his eyes weren’t glued to the paper in front of him, he was looking at you. The smirk that would curl the end of his lips as he listened to you talk instantly made your face heat up. You tried your best to stay focused and on track, but it was hard not to get distracted by his bright blue eyes staring back at you. You kept it together enough to ask some questions of your own, which was how you found out he’d spent his whole life in the Outer Banks, him and all of his friends. From the glint in his eyes when he talked about them, you had to assume they were a fun group of people.

Eventually, your conversation began to draw to a close. He set his pen down and looked at you. “I should be able to pull together some basic ideas to send your way, see how you’re feeling about ‘em. If you like one, we can get right to it.”

It almost seemed too simple, but you weren’t upset about it. “That’s great! Thank you so much.”

“No problem.” He paused. “There, uh, there a good way to get in touch with you?”

“Shit,” you said with a laugh. “Yea, let me give you my number.”

He walked with you towards the door, both of you saying goodbye. He promised to be in touch with you sooner rather than later, and you couldn’t even try to hide your excitement at the prospect of it. You told yourself it was just because of the tattoo.

JJ watched for a few seconds as you made your way down the street, lingering for longer than maybe he normally would have or should have. He shook his head at himself as he turned and walking back so he was completely inside the shop. When he went back to his little work area and grabbed his tablet, he suddenly found himself getting attached to a brand new idea, unable to try and focus on anything else as he grabbed the notebook with all the notes he’d taken during your conversation with him. There was a small smile on his face as he got to work.

He stayed up later than he cared to admit over the next few nights working on the design the two of you had discussed. More than a few times he was tempted to reach out and talk to you, show you what he had done so far. But he wanted to make sure that when he showed you his idea, it was good. He was also tempted to reach out and ask more questions, blaming it on needing more information for the design but really just wanting to talk to you more.

Eventually, finally, he had something that he felt comfortable showing you. He checked the time before sending it, wondering if maybe it was too late. But he figured that worst case scenario, you’d just see it when you woke up in the morning.

“First draft- let me know what you think.” He typed it out and attached the picture of the design before sending it off to you.

He set his phone on his nightstand, figuring that he wasn’t going to hear back from you until the following morning. He was just reaching up to turn his bedside lamp off when his phone buzzed against the top of his nightstand. Tilting the screen towards him, he couldn’t hide his surprise at the fact that you’d already gotten back to him.

“I love it!”

He smiled, unlocking his phone and replying to you. The two of you texted back and forth, firming up the final details of what you wanted for the design. You also asked him when he thought he would be able to get you in for an appointment. You would’ve been lying if you tried to say that you weren’t hoping for something as soon as possible. On top of the excitement of getting a new tattoo, you were excited to have a reason to stop in and see him.

“I’ll see you next week!” you texted excitedly when he’d given you a date and time for the appointment.

“Sounds good. See you then” JJ was glad that the excitement on his face couldn’t be seen through a text message.

Over the next couple days, you wondered if it was unprofessional to just text JJ simply because you wanted to talk to him and get to know him better. You knew it probably was, but you still wanted to do it. More times than you would ever admit to anyone else, you went back and reread the short text conversation between the two of you.

By the time your appointment rolled around, it took all you had not to speed-walk down the block to the shop. The door was already propped open when you got there, so you walked right in. Unlike the last time you’d stopped by, it wasn’t just you and JJ this time. The two other artists were in the shop, each of them working on their own clients. The place was filled with music, conversation, and the lull of multiple tattoo machines going at the same time.

“Hey!” JJ piped up from where he was sitting at his work station.

He just had on a plain white t-shirt on with a pair of shorts and his boots, but it still made your brain go totally blank for a moment. You watched him as he stood up and walked over to you, greeting you again before you finally got your brain to cooperate so you could return the favor.

“So,” he walked with you to the table where you’d be laying while he worked, “you ready to get to work?”

You laughed as you nodded, setting your bag on the floor. “Yea, but I mean I guess I should be the one asking you that, right? I just have to lay here while you do all the work.”

The comment got a laugh out of both of you. You watched, twisting your hands in front of you as JJ printed off the stencil to place on your leg. You rolled up the bottom of your shorts so he’d have easier access to the outside of your thigh. Goosebumps broke out over your skin when his fingers grazed along your leg so he could press the stencil on. You wanted to bury your face in your hands at your reaction but he didn’t say anything about it one way or the other, which you were thankful for.

“Here,” he said as he gestured for you to stand in front of the full-length mirror by his station. “How’s that?”

Your entire face lit up as you looked down at your leg, and it was only the stencil. “That’s perfect!” You looked at the thin purple lines that were covering your thigh. “Think we can get it all done today?”

He laughed, shrugging as he helped you hop up onto the table. “If you think you can sit for the whole thing, I can get it all done.”

“If I can sit for it,” you repeated back, your tone just on the joking side of mocking him. “I think I’ll be fine.”

He chuckled at your response, holding his hands up in surrender. “If you say so.”

You managed to find a comfortable position to lay in while he worked that would make it easy for him to do your tattoo, but also make it easy for you to be able to talk to him and watch him while he worked. You kept yourself propped up on your elbows, leaning so that you could see it as he passed the needle over your skin. Every now and then your leg would twitch, but it was never enough to throw him off from what he was doing.

He kept the conversation going with you despite the fact that he hardly ever took his eyes off of his work. You didn’t mind it, taking the opportunity to be able to stare at him without being caught or called out. Each time he laughed or shook his head at something you said, all you wanted to do was reach over and run your fingers through his hair. You didn’t, of course, but you really wanted to.

A few hours into it, he looked over at you and asked if you needed a break. You couldn’t deny that getting up and being able t stretch your legs sounded like nice. JJ held his hand out to help you sit up and get off the table. You hopped down, the leg that he’d been tattooing feeling like it was still mostly asleep and you stumbled a step. His grip on your hand tightened and he allowed you to lean onto him until the tingling in your leg subsided a bit.

Stepping back, you let out a nervous laugh, trying to ignore the way your face felt like it was on fire. “Sorry about that.”

He shrugged, the smirk curling the edge of his mouth making you think that he didn’t mind it in the slightest. “All good.” He nodded towards the mirror. “Go check out the progress.”

You walked over to the mirror and looked at what he had done so far. You were already excited as you had watched him work, but being able to see it all in the mirror increased your excitement tenfold. Your eyes widened and you fought the urge to reach down and run your fingers over it. The skin was still sensitive and he wasn’t anywhere near done yet. All of the outlining was complete though, and he had just started the shading.

You’d been so enthralled with the ink on your leg that you hadn’t noticed the fact that JJ stepped in close behind you, popping up in the mirror and looking just over your shoulder. “Whatcha think?”

You almost stumbled right back into him out of surprise. You chuckled as you met his eyeline through the reflection of the mirror. “I love it!”

He smirked at you as he looked in the mirror. You felt like there was something more that one of you should be saying but neither of you said anything. He lingered closely over your shoulder, and as you took a deep breath you could smell the bodywash and faint scent of weed on him. You gnawed lightly at the inside of your lips as you fought the urge to say or do something stupid.

“Ready to hop back on the table?” he finally asked.

You nodded, turning around so that you were facing him. “Yea, I think I’m good.”

Once you were back on the table, JJ got right back to work. He didn’t say anything for a little while, just focusing on shading in your tattoo, listening to the thrum of the machine in his hand. You watched him contentedly as he worked, something to take your mind off the stinging sensation that was happening as he continued to pass the needles over the same patch of skin.

When JJ adjusted his leg, he brought one foot up and braced it against one of the supports under the table. You looked down, and along with the other tattoos that were winding up his leg, you saw one that didn’t quite look like the others. It looked crude, simple. But he clearly hadn’t covered it up even though he easily could’ve.

“That your first one?” you asked him.

His hand stilled, pulling the machine away from your leg as he looked over at you. Confusion covered his entire face. “What?”

“Your tattoo.” You reached, lightly tapping it with your fingertips. “This one.”

He looked down, a smile spreading across his face as he saw the one you were pointing to. “Yea,” he said with a nod, “that was my first one. Did it myself.”

“Stick and poke?”

He laughed. “You know it.”

“That’s where it all started, then?”

He smiled, shrugging as he got back to work on your leg. “Yea, I guess so. Lucky for you I’ve gotten a lot better since then.”

You hummed in approval. “Lucky for me.”

It was such a relief when JJ did one final swipe over your leg when he was done. He helped you off the table again, letting you get another good look at your tattoo before grabbing the wrap to cover it. You watched intently as he crouched down next to you, deftly wrapping your leg and taping it in place.

You tried not to think too hard about the warmth of his hand against your leg as he secured the wrap around your thigh. You forced yourself not to stare at him, instead looking up at the ceiling above you. A very large part of you was glad that everyone else in the shop was preoccupied so they wouldn’t see the flustered look on your face.

When he stood back up, JJ was nearly chest to chest with you. You let out a quiet huff of a laugh, unable to look him in the eyes. He waited for you to finally look at him in the eyes and the smile that was on his face nearly made your leg give out again.

“You should be all set.”

You nodded, swallowing hard. “Yea, o-okay. Thank, thank you. Seriously,” you looked down at the fresh ink on your leg, “it’s amazing.”

“Looks good on you,” he said, the smirk audible in his voice.

You laughed, biting down on your bottom lip. “Thanks.”

“Anytime.”

You busied yourself with getting the money together to pay him. “As long as I make an appointment, right?” you joked as you handed him the cash.

He shook his head as he took the money from you. “You got my number, right?” He looked up at you from counting the bills in his hand. “Just text me—I’ll make time.”

Just when it felt like your face had finally cooled down it felt like it was on fire all over again. The amount of self-control it took not to giggle was embarrassing and gun to your head you would never admit it. Instead, you nodded. “I’ll remember that.”

The two of you walked over to the door of the shop again, and you found yourself wishing you knew what to say to him. The two of you lingered in the doorway, you picking at the straps of your bag and JJ watching you.

“Anything comes up, or if you have any questions, just text me. Or, you know, drop by,” he said as he leaned against the doorframe.

“Or stop by, huh?” you asked with a small smile. You shook your head slightly as you chuckled. “Thank you, JJ.”

“Yea, no—” he stopped short as you stepped in and gave him a quick hug, recovering quickly as he hugged you back, “no problem.”

Pulling away, you saw the slightly surprised look on his face. “Sorry, sorry.”

He shook his head. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll, uh,” he reached and brushed his fingers against your arm, “I’ll see you soon.”

“Yea,” you said as you finally stepped outside the shop, “I’ll have my whole leg sleeved up before I know it.”

He chuckled as he watched you start walking down the sidewalk. “Let’s hope!” he called after you.

Turning around, you faced him with a smile on your face, effectively making yourself walk backwards down the sidewalk. “Later, JJ.”

Reaching up, he braced his hands against the top of the doorframe, leaning with a smile. “Later,” he replied, trying to sound much more casual than he really felt as he watched you walk away one more time.

#outer banks #obx #outer banks netflix #obx netflix #jj maybank x reader #jj maybank x you #jj maybank moodboard #jj maybank #navy and roo sleepover #navy and roo's sleepover #obx fanfiction #outer banks fanfiction #slumber party #obx au #outer banks au #jj maybank au #my writing #fanfiction #drabblesmc

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junekicks · 1 year

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thinking of if the pogues were a band, what role do you think they’d have within the band or what would they play? ily soph <3

lia, baby! hi, honey! i love you!

[ 🎧 ]

ok, so i love this ask and i feel like they could be like a modern day daisy jones and the six? like they aren’t famous - famous yet. they’re just playing gigs at boneyard parties or for like weddings or even maybe gigs at the country club. it’s small things that build up as time passes.

i feel like the band starts with john b and jj, obviously. like it’s something they use to talk about as kids and would do silly performances with air guitars for big john, when he was still around.

but as they got older, maybe john b got into music in high school? i think it would definitely be “his band”. he’d be the main guitarist, writing songs at first. i feel like he could sing somewhat good, as well.

jj is on drums, no doubt about it. he’s good at it too. i feel like when jj finds something he knows he might be good at, he’ll really put the work in. plus i think being on drums is kind of like a relief of emotions for him. he plays with passion and aggression, depending what the songs are. the people love it.

the two boys definitely rope pope in. they have too. they’re a trio. i also feel like pope is good with his fingers. lol. he’d be the bass guitarist. he’d help out with a lot of the writing too, his brains and all that.

kiara is on the piano. it suits her, to me at least. keyboardist and vocalist. she just gets into it and really mellows the boys down when it’s needed.

the four of them are good together, but they all seem to know something is missing.

john b meets sarah at a gig at the country club. she loves their music and the way they play. the two hit it off, because sarah’s a sweetheart. pope thinks she could be good for him (and the band, eventually). jj doesn’t really care, he just doesn’t want john b distracted—if it comes down to it. kiara obviously isn’t on good terms with sarah, because of what happened with them during school.

sarah comes around a lot after that. she’ll be there when john b is coming up with lyric ideas. and when he’s figuring it out on the guitar, she’ll over look his lyrics and hum them how she thinks they’d go. she helps him out with a few songs. it’s sweet.

a few months into them actually being together, he realizes she can sing—and good. he’s out on the porch with jj, they’re smoking and working on something new. they’re staring down at lyrics that don’t seem to be clicking when they hear it. jj hears it first, john b too in tune with the crinkled papers of messy words.

sarah has a beautiful voice and she’s the final puzzle piece to the band. (her and kie are good!)

they start to make it bigger when sarah comes in. her name definitely helps out. and her father’s money.

and when they do make it big, i think it gets crazy from there. you know how jj is with drinking and stuff, he’s definitely into drugs and hooking up with one too many girls. they all love him, he’s like the “sex appeal”. he loves it. sarah and john b are perfect (no cheating here, lord). kie’s with this really shy and cute timid girl they met at a gig a few months ago—she’s been traveling with them ever since. she helps with photography and promotion for the band. as for pope, he’s definitely more reserved. he drinks a beer or two here and there, stays way from drugs, and makes sure everyone is at sound check when they need to be. girls definitely like him, he’s good and cute and in a band, hello? he’s definitely hooked up with a few, but nothing ever sticks and he doesn’t go crazy like jj does.

(you don’t have to read this if you aren’t for jjpope)

and maybe this is me being me, but i feel like pope is waiting for jj. like it eventually happens at some point. there’s a lot of tension between the two and teasing. no one ever comments on it. (there’s a few questions about it in interviews or from fans. pope never knows how to react, but jj always has it covered.) sarah definitely talks to pope about it, like when he’s freaking about jj and everything—he goes to sarah. (pope and sarah definitely have an amazing bond.)

jj eventually stops being blind. it’s him and pope. people love it. it’s sweet and feels right.

anywho! i definitely got too in depth with this? maybe? who knows. but, god, i loved this ask and it was very fun to envision them as a band <3

#outer banks #outer banks au #outer banks band au #john b routledge #jj maybank #sarah cameron #pope heyward #kiara carrera #band au #outer banks imagine #outer banks blurb #fanfiction #jjpope #sarah and john b #jj and pope #lesbian!kiara carrera #soph’s place

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be-the-glenn-to-my-maggie · 10 months

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outer banks anon here again! i totally see the vision with nocorro as jjpope, like that just works so well oh my god

YES IT DOES the way they constantly bicker is locorro coded on the surface BUT I THINK it is definitely nocorro coded as well.

Just think about it. The way Spider would do something monumentally stupid and then Neteyam would panic and roast the shit out of him. Like how are you this dumb? And then they are yelling and bantering until Kiri or Tsireya cuts them off, lol. Neteyam is refusing to smoke weed or drink too much with these fools, and then finally one day at the literal worst time, the time they need him the most, he just goes off the deep end and even Spider is like whoa there. The way Spider wouldn't know something and then Neteyam would be like "HOW DO YOU NOT KNOW THIS OBVIOUS THING??"

Here and here, this is them, okay. @spicymiilk I don't know if you've even seen this show, it doesn't matter this is what they're like. The way I just wasted like 30 minutes going through jjpope edits.

#neteyam sully #miles spider socorro #spider socorro #nocorro #kiri sully #tsireya #avatar #avatar the way of water #james cameron avatar #outer banks au #melissa on avatar (cameron)#melissa's asks

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onsunnyside · 1 year

Text

.♡ ⃗ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫 (𝟏/𝟓)

𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 | best friend!JJ Maybank x reader (College AU)

𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 | fluff, friends-to-lovers, college au, non-canon ages, ‘lessons in love & pleasure’ trope, kook!reader, size difference, shy!reader, inexperienced & virgin!reader, clumsy!reader, cute first kisses.

♫ ·ﾟ𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

𝗪/𝗖 | 3.97K

𝗔/𝗡 | and here we go !! this is my first obx series, so pls wish me luck, also note that this is a college au, meaning all characters are 21+. this will be angst-free, just a fluffy fic about two friends falling in love, starring a charming blond surfer. i'd love to hear your thoughts about this so far. as always, all mistakes are my own. ☼ 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐊𝐨-𝐟𝐢 ☼

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 & 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲: @𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲

˗ˏˋ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭ˎˊ˗ ⋰˚ 𝐎𝐁𝐗 (& 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬) 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

The rays of the sun beam down, burning your heated face as you exit the building. Hurriedly stuffing your uniform in your bag, you rush down the stairs and toward the main campus. You weave between students, nearly tripping while anxiously checking the time on your phone.

A few minutes late wasn’t that bad. You didn’t expect your professor to take the entire period given that it was the last day before spring break. It would’ve been more bearable if you had any friends in that class, but none of them showed. Perhaps you should’ve done the same and got a headstart on break too, or at least a full eight hours of sleep for the first time in months.

Approaching the common area, the familiar sound of the fountain meets your ears amongst the chatter and laughter from your peers.

Your eyes fall on a familiar blond, a toothpick between his teeth as he mindlessly scrolls through his cell phone. He stands out amongst the sea of plaid skirts, ties and blazers, wearing a backwards cap, cargo shorts and a tank top, his toned arms as sunkissed as ever. You call his name and break into a skip.

“If it isn’t the smartest gal I know…” You melt in his hold, that signature coastal citrusy scent washing over you like waves on a shore. After one final squeeze, he pulls away, his blue eyes flickering down to your feet. “And she still doesn’t remember to tie her damn shoes.”

“I was already running late, I couldn’t stop!”

He rolls his eyes and drops to one knee, bringing your foot to the other, “yeah, and what would’ve happened if you tripped? Or got stuck in an escalator? Or tangled in some wild vines?” He asks, quickly tying both your laces.

“Too late for one of those…” You pull up the hem of your dress, exposing the mismatched bandaids on both your knees.

“Did you try to walk and chew gum at the same time?”

You huff, “actually, I got it while golfing. The tall grass is really misleading.”

Your mother had scolded you for the grass stains on your new shoes, yet another pair just victim to your clumsiness, much like everything else you own.

As expected, JJ’s mood sours at the mention of Figure 8. Years after that kegger incident, JJ was still very bitter towards anything Kook-related. He didn’t want to hear about Rafe and his crew and almost turned red at the mere mention of their names. He tolerated you, Sarah and Kie talking about Midsummers, and was absolutely zero help when you were discussing dresses and crowns.

“Who was there?”

“Just my dad, Sarah and Mr. Cameron.”

JJ hums, peering up at you through his lashes. “Anyone else?”

You cross your arms, “Rafe never comes if that’s what you’re asking. He’s too busy working for his dad, and is probably halfway across the world, sipping on Dom Pérignon by the beach.”

“Yeah, I guess it’s not like he asked you to join him… again.”

A loud sigh falls from your lips, “That was one time! And he didn’t even ask, Mr. Cameron wanted me to check on him and make sure he wasn’t blowing profits on new bikes or drugs.”

JJ drops it after that, he could say anything he wanted but that wouldn’t impact your relationship with the Camerons. Since your parents owned and operated the Island Club, and rich people liked other rich people.

Your entire childhood was spent on Figure 8 alongside Sarah and the rest of the Kooks. You were grateful to live so comfortably, never having to worry about bills or losing electricity for days on end, but you’ve always envied the Pogues. Their freedom and exciting adventures were so different from the lonely box you were born in.

With years of friendship between you and the rest of the Pogues, your mother still referred to them as ‘those kids from The Cut.’

Your father, on the other hand, had a soft spot for them—especially JJ because of their shared love for cars and motorbikes. There have been a few times that you’ve caught them messing around in the garage after JJ left for more snacks and drinks, practically abandoning you all by the pool for some grease and engines.

Although he liked the blond boy, you know your father would disapprove of the many nights he’s sneaked through your window for a little sleepover. You were used to it now, sharing a bed with your best friend was a regular occurrence. It was platonic, even when you’d wake up in each other’s arms, tucked close.

JJ’s morning voice never failed to make you all fuzzy inside.

“Hello? Are you gonna get on or does the princess need help?”

Ignoring his remark, you quickly straddle his bike and wince at the dull pain in your thigh, “I also got a nasty bruise that day—note to self, never try to retrieve golf balls from deceitful tall grass again.”

He chuckles and twists around, “poor baby, want me to kiss it better?”

As if the sun had solely focused on you, your whole body heats up, a warmth fluttering in your belly as your mind searches for a response.

“I-I, uhm…oh, I—”

JJ laughs loud with a dimpled grin, “Why don’t you think about it and tell me later? We’re already running late and you know how Pope is with that.”

The Wreck is busy this time of day, every seat filled with college students and Tourons as waiters zoom from table to table. The delicious smell of seafood clouds the air and loud conversations drown out the radio. Sunshine pours from the windows, bathing the nautical decorations in an orange glow. Fishnets, brass ship wheels, and various hand-painted signs hang on the walls, strung up alongside fairy lights and ceiling fans.

You and JJ beeline for your designated spot, the booth all the way in the corner of the restaurant. As suspected, everyone is already there apart from Kie, you side in next to Pope and exchange gleeful greetings.

“And she lives! After that tumble at the golf course, I’m surprised you don’t have a cast or something.” Sarah snorts, the memory of you literally disappearing in the grass replaying in her head. “How’d your mom take it?”

You pout, “She was more concerned with my dirty clothes than my injuries,” and your bruised ego, “can you believe it?”

You’re met with mumbles of ‘yes’ and ‘of course,’ everyone awfully aware of your mother’s obsession with the picture-perfect image. If she had it her way, she would dress you every day to show off that Kook status, she’d put you in pastel prints, ironed polos, and hand-shined shoes. A part of you knows that the only thing stopping her from dressing you like a doll was your clumsiness, a saving grace disguised as aches and bandaids.

Her overbearing nature was also to blame for your timid heart, sometimes you were too scared to do any wrong that you wouldn’t do anything at all. Looming fear kept you in that box of solitude, unfulfilled expectations and thrills made you shrink away. As a child, you never had the confidence to speak up and often went with whatever your mother said, but that was until you met the Pogues. They helped you get out of your shell and introduced you to new experiences, they were the most patient and caring people you’ve met, and you wouldn’t trade their friendship for the world.

Out of the corner of your eye, Sarah and John B exchange a few chaste kisses. You immediately turn away, jumping into a conversation about Kie’s whereabouts with Pope.

“Her dad needed a hand, hopefully, she’ll be back with our food soon.” He answers and slides a glass in front of you, “she got this for you.”

It was your favourite smoothie flavour. You don’t waste any time and take a long sip, the sweet berries melting on your tongue, a momentary distraction from feeling so different from your friends.

Under your mother’s watchful eye, you never dared to step out of line and that has led you to being terribly inexperienced in everything dating-related. While your friends were partying and earning their stripes, you were watching from the sidelines and fumbling every opportunity that came your way. You tried to forget all those people who have pursued you, their texts unanswered and calls ignored.

You shake away those thoughts, “Did any of you have class today?”

Sarah flips her blond hair over her shoulder, “All my uniforms were in the wash, so it really wasn’t my fault. If private universities didn’t have mandatory uniforms… I still probably wouldn’t have gone.”

You and Sarah went to the same campus, but your schedules were far different. You could barely remember your own, let alone keep track of hers too.

Your gaze slowly shifts from each of their faces, “even you, Pope?”

“In my defence, I’m way ahead in all my courses, I could afford to miss a day.”

“Hmm… And does your dad know?” You tut, tilting your head.

He stares back at you, “Does your dad know you let Sarah and John B spend their anniversary in the country club after hours?”

Across the table, Sarah’s jaw drops. “You said you wouldn’t tell anyone!”

“I didn’t! Only you and he know.” You point to her boyfriend who was blinking owlishly.

John B raises his hands, going rigid under his girlfriend’s glare. “I only told JJ.”

All eyes land on the blond, a paper crane napkin in his hands. “Hm? Oh yeah, I told Pope and Kie.”

“No secrets between Pogues.” They both high-five over your head.

You deflate, covering your face. “Don’t tell anyone else, okay? I don’t want to accidentally start some under-the-table business renting the club… My mom would kill me.”

JJ coos, rubbing up and down your back. “Hey, it’s no different than Sarah lending Ward’s yacht to Pope when he wanted to impress that Touron…” He shrieks when a hand slaps the back of his head, knocking his hat to the ground.

“Idiot! No one knew about that!”

“I think we can all agree that JJ is just terrible at keeping secrets. Can’t trust him with anything.”

You giggle and sip on your smoothie, half-listening to John B’s rant about some customers at the surf shop. JJ sticks a straw in your cup and drinks too, cheekily bumping your foreheads together, his pretty blue eyes locked onto yours.

You find it hard to turn away, your gaze drifting over his face. From his strong nose to his cheekbones carrying a slight sunburn to his defined jaw. He flashes a grin, those stupid dimples making you a little flustered.

JJ was a natural flirt, he could make anyone swoon, he showered his friends in platonic love and affection—hugs, cuddles, kisses, you name it and he’s done it to each of you. He’s dated around the island but those relationships never lasted long enough to get serious, and they’ve never been introduced to your group either.

You’ve always wondered what he was like as a boyfriend, if he was as sweet with his partners as he was with all of you, if that tenderness bled into all his actions. He wore his heart on his sleeve in the most admirable of ways, although he was hotheaded and troubled, you’ve always felt safe with him.

You pull away, squeezing your eyes shut, “agh! Brain freeze!”

He snorts, bringing you forward for a sloppy kiss on your forehead, his cold lips against your warm skin. “Maybe you shouldn’t drink so quickly, ya dummy.”

Kie finally joins the rest of you a while later, bringing trays of fresh food and more drinks before sitting beside John B. Her long brown hair is up in a bun, loose strands frame her face, “Just letting you all know, I expect a mighty fine tip today and everyone is helping me clean up after closing.”

“Might as well take my kidney while you’re at it.” JJ speaks through a mouthful of fries, “we’re supposed to relax today.”

“And I don’t feel like getting elbow-deep in dirty dishes if I’m not being paid for it,” John B adds.

“These free meals say different. C’mon, my dad promised he’d try not to disturb me this week if we get this place spotless for spring break.” She looks at you, brown eyes pleading, “I’ll get you a smoothie to go.”

“I mean… it’s a small price to pay for a week of freedom, right?”

“Not guaranteed freedom.”

JJ leans towards you, “don’t say yes.”

“There’s six of us, we could get it done in one hour or even less if we work fast!”

“I guess that’s true.” You agree, despite JJ’s protests.

“Sunshine, no—if you stay, I’m gonna have to stay too.”

Kie calls your name, reaching over to physically turn you towards her. “Don’t look at him. If you stay, he’ll stay, same goes for Sarah and John B, and well… Pope will stay regardless because he doesn’t have a choice.”

Pope pulls a face, “excuse me?”

Truthfully, you were going to stay anyway, but it does make you a little bashful knowing that JJ wouldn’t leave without you.

“Okay, I’ll stay.”

“Same here.” Sarah decides, earning a huff from her boyfriend, “And just for your attitudes, the guys have to clean the deep fryers.”

“Including Pope.”

“I didn’t even say anything!”

After thoroughly cleaning The Wreck, the night concludes with a movie marathon at the Chateau. Pope keeps his streak of picking the best movies and chooses a trilogy you haven’t seen before. Bowls of snacks and beer cans litter the floor, and a half-finished pizza sits on the coffee table. Sarah and John B share one couch, and Kie and Pope are sprawled on the floor atop cushions and blankets, while you and JJ are tucked into the smallest couch, your legs over his lap.

As the opening credits roll on the screen, everyone takes the opportunity to do more catching up. Kie talks about cleaning up some beaches with other volunteers and her most recent trip off the island, a small project with a group of marine wildlife rescuers. She even shows a bunch of pictures of her with baby turtles.

John B and JJ talk about their co-owned surf shop, “We caved and hired extra help.”

“Finally!” Kie exclaims, “If you and JJ were running that shop alone any longer, it would go bankrupt, you’re both so fucking lazy.”

“Hey, I’m a great employee. I just got employee of the month actually.” JJ defends.

“You shouldn’t be proud of that if it’s only you two. You literally just vote for each other every month,” Sarah states knowingly.

You, Sarah and Pope don’t have much to say about your college careers, except for the lack of sleep and dependence on caffeine. It’s not very exciting, but Pope’s story about his professor who only attends class in socks makes you a little thankful for your overly strict school.

The marathon goes on, and the conversation dies down by the end of the second movie. Someone’s soft snoring flows over the steamy soundtrack and for the umpteenth time tonight, you look away as the two leads share a passionate kiss. At least it wasn’t another sex scene.

As your best friend, JJ could read you like a book. He knew you from the inside out, he could tell what you were thinking before you even said it, and he knew all of those humiliating secrets that kept you up at night. One of them being your lack of experience. When you confessed that, he told you it wasn’t something to be ashamed of, everyone moves at different paces and lives different lives—but kissing?

“You’ve never been kissed?”

You cover your face, embarrassment flooding in. “You don’t have to say it like that!”

“I’m not—I’m not teasing.” His smile says differently. He easily pulls your hands down, holding them in his lap, “it’s just not what I was expecting.”

He generally knew you weren’t the most experienced in intimacy and relationships, and that’s partly why he was so protective of you. Even at crowded parties and in his drunken state, he’d keep an eye on you, watching out for any creeps. Unbeknownst to you, it was an unspoken rule between the Pogues to treat you a little softer, a little sweeter because they all know how sensitive you were.

But he figured you’ve kissed someone before. Maybe some lucky kid from Figure 8 or a dude from your private school.

“I know, I know. You probably find it so funny.” You huff and roll your eyes, “laugh all you want, jerk.”

And to your chagrin, he does but quickly apologizes. “Sorry, sorry. Okay, maybe it’s a little funny. But not in a bad way! It’s actually cute.”

Cute?

“It’s adorable.” He cups your face, “itty bitty baby hasn’t had her first kiss… not even with that poster in your bedroom?”

Your chest warms as he pinches and pulls both of your cheeks, puckering your lips when you try to speak, “...posh-ers don’t ha’ tongues.”

“Oh, so you wanna French kiss for your first time? Didn’t think you were that type of girl, sunshine.”

You push him back and try to scoot away, making do with whatever sliver of space you can manage between the two of you, but he doesn’t let you get far. Keeping you in place with his hands on your hips.

“You’re telling me, aside from no one taking you on a date before, no one has asked to kiss you either?”

“JJ, you know my parents. My mom is so hard to please, I can’t imagine bringing someone home for her approval. And I had opportunities but… I kept getting too nervous.”

He’s quiet for a moment, his gaze tracing over your face. You hadn’t realized how close he was until now, you could count his every eyelash and his every freckle.

“I could help you out.”

A lump appears in your throat, it would silence your words if you could think of any but you can’t. Too caught up in his deep voice as it repeats in your head, again and again like a broken record.

“You trust me, right? You know me, I’m not—I’m not some guy you just met. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. If you wanted to, uh, kiss someone you just met, go ahead.” He reassures, “but I don’t think you want to do that.”

JJ was so awfully sentimental when it came to his friendships. His several shoe boxes of polaroids, tickets and trinkets under his bed said enough about his love for nostalgia. He was always one to take a chance, to live in a moment for as long as he could, and to find the positives in any situation, even the worst ones.

Years down the line, he never leaves the house without the silver zippo that you got him on a trip with your parents. It was easy to find something for each of your friends from your weeks-long stay in Europe: jewelry for Sarah and Kie, a first edition copy of a novel for Pope, and a vintage compass for John B, but you were stumped when it came to JJ.

You saved his gift for last, long after everyone else had fallen asleep, the mess of your celebratory return littering the backyard in empty beer bottles and confetti. He bugged you all night, eager for his special little something.

“Don’t open your eyes.”

“...Mhm, I’m having trouble keeping ‘em open.”

You placed the zippo in his hand and stepped back, “Okay, just feel it.”

He passed it between his hands, dragging his fingers over the cold metal until he popped it open, “a lighter?”

You nearly turned away when your nerves started bubbling and you’re thankful you didn’t, or else you would’ve missed his reaction. To this day, you’ve never seen him smile so wide or his eyes light up that bright at the sight of his initials and P4L ingrained in the silver.

He’s just JJ, one of your best friends in the entire world.

Deciding to take this opportunity before it slips away, you nod and his lips meet yours. He starts with little pecks, soft and sweet like cotton candy, and they slowly drag into short kisses. Putting a bit of intensity behind it, his tongue swipes along your bottom lip, but you don’t get the hint until he gently thumbs at your chin, just barely pulling your lips apart. He tastes like beer and a bit of weed, and his lips are softer than they look.

He’s slow and steady, letting you get used to the feel of him. You exhale in his mouth and shyly follow his lead, hoping he can’t hear your heart hammering in your chest. You don’t know if it’s the sweet rush of his lips against yours, or if this is how it feels to kiss someone for the first time, but you feel like you’ll float away.

Before you know it, he pulls away and presses his forehead against yours.

“You can breathe while we kiss.” He chuckles, nudging your nose with his, “don’t want you passing out on me, sunshine.”

You realize how lightheaded you feel and gasp for air, subconsciously licking your lips to taste him again. In a daze, you breathe in and out, briefly wondering if it felt like this to kiss just anyone.

One of his hands slips behind your neck and the other falls to your thigh, warm and gentle. “Do you want to stop?”

You glance at your friends, still passed out on the floor and other couches, the movie playing dully in the background. “No?”

“Are you asking me or telling me?”

“No.” You repeat, firmer this time. “I don’t want to stop. Pl-Please don’t stop.”

How could JJ deny you? Especially when you ask so dreamily with that glazed look in your eyes. He fights the urge to pull you into his lap and touch you all over and be the first person to make you into a pretty mess, to feel you in a way no one else has before. He connects your lips again, taking the lead and slipping his tongue into your mouth.

The unmistakable wet noises cause tingles to course all over your body, from your toes to the tips of your fingers clasped in your lap. They only get stronger when he tilts your head to kiss you deeper.

“You can touch me too,” he murmurs, bringing your hand to the back of his neck. Your digits automatically curl in his blond hair, drawing a low groan from his throat.

That’s when you go completely dumb and totally thoughtless. All concerns fly out of your mind and join the bluebirds above your head. They’re playing a little song to the beat of your heart, hitting every note and putting you at ease like a lovesick lullaby. You almost assume that’s why you feel lightheaded again.

JJ leans back, his voice raspy, “you keep forgetting to breathe, baby.”

“I’m sorry,” you exhale heavily, the butterflies in your tummy going wild as he caresses your face. “I’m not good at this yet.”

His rough fingers drag down your cheekbones and trace your jaw, the pad of his thumb gently presses on your bottom lip, almost slipping inside your mouth. His eyes seem darker, the clear blue shaded in something you can’t name.

His lips trail to your jaw, the movie long forgotten, “It’s okay, we have lots of time to practice. I’m gonna teach you everything I know, sunshine.”

𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬: ahhh I've always wanted to write a sweet fic like this, i'm so excited to dive into a new fandom 🥰🥰 i'm still a lil nervous, but i'm hoping for the best !! feel free to stop by my inbox and let me know what you think of this so far, or request blurbs/drabbles for this au !!

𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞! this fic doesn't have an update schedule, but i'll add dates on the masterlist (linked here) if i have a date in mind. also, here's the 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 for this fic !!

As always, I hope you all enjoyed this and I’d love to hear your thoughts/feedback !! <3 — ☼ 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐊𝐨-𝐟𝐢 ☼

I don’t do taglists anymore. ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 & 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲: @𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲

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maybanksbabe · 9 months

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𝐂𝐑𝐔𝐄𝐋 𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐑 - 𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐑

The sun began sinking towards the horizon as Cordelia gathered the tables and chairs from the outside patio. It had been the first day of the Summer rush and it had been nonstop for her, pouring drinks, dropping food off at tables and clearing up after day-drunk rich people. The Drift Beach Bar & Grill had opened its doors for tourists and holiday-makers once more, and with how successful the first day of the rush had been, it gave them hope for the rest of the season.

“Um… Excuse me?” A voice caught her attention and she looked away from the pile of chairs to see an unfamiliar face standing at the edge of the patio space. He wore a buzzcut and a white cotton shirt and khaki cargo shorts. Cordelia paused briefly and swallowed thickly before moving over to him.

“Can I help you?” He pointed to the sign in the glass of the door. Bold black letters claiming HELP WANTED.

“You guys still lookin’?” She wiped her hands on her apron and shrugged.

“Might be. What’s your name, stranger?”

“Uh - Rafe. Rafe Cameron. What’s yours?” With a coy grin, she wiggled her name badge that was pinned to her Drift t-shirt.

“Ah. Cordelia. That’s a pretty name.” She couldn’t help but laugh a little and shake her head in disbelief.

“Alright, slick. Why d’you want a job here, anyway?” Cordelia gave him another look over and determined that he definitely came from money.

“Well - well, it’s kinda a long story… I’m lookin’ for a fresh start, that’s all.” There was an earnest gleam in his eyes and Cordelia took pity on him. She beckoned him to follow her and they moved inside.

“Cory, what’s takin’ so long I thought you’d be -” Her father appeared from the kitchen, rag tucked in his back pocket, but he stopped short when he saw Rafe behind her.

“Who’s your friend?”

“Not a friend,” she chided, undoing her apron to put it on the bar, “This is Rafe, he’s lookin’ for a job and saw the help sign out front.”

#rafe cameron x oc #rafe cameron fanfiction #rafe cameron fanfic #rafe cameron x reader #Cruel Summer #outer banks au #obx au #outer banks fanfiction #outer banks fanfic #obx fanfic #libra writes

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fics-n-stuff · 1 year

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I just watched Now You See Me the other day and now I can't stop thinking about the pogues as the four horsemen.

John B is J Daniel Atlas (the standard above average street magician), Pope is Merritt McKinney (the mentalist), Kie is Henley Reeves (the escapologist*) and JJ is Jack Wilder (the slight of hand hustler).

The four of them pulling off crazy tricks and Robin Hooding, running from the FBI while being the most dramatic bitches possible. JJ faking his own death in a car crash. Look me in the eyes and tell me that doesn't match up perfectly. The only thing that doesn't match up is the unresolved feelings between Atlas and Henley, but we can just ignore that and replace it with the relationship between Lula and Jack in Now You See Me 2 and it becomes Jiara (using Lula as a swap for Henley but keeping it as Kie in this AU)

And then Now You See Me 2, imagine Arthur Tressler and Walter Mabry as Ward and Rafe. I think that's iconic.

Idk what to do with Sarah and Cleo in this AU (and idk if there are appropriate stand ins for Dylan Rhodes and Thaddeus Bradley) but honestly idc, the og four pogues as the four horsemen is so fun

*I say escapologist based only on her opening scene with the piranha tank because I didn't know what else I could give her as a title other than being 'the girl'

#obx #outer banks #now you see me #now you see me au #john b routledge #kiara carrera #jj maybank #pope heyward #ward cameron #rafe cameron #outer banks au #obx au #obx netflix

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fandomxpreferences · 9 months

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Game On Chapter Two: Denial Is A River In Egypt

Series Masterlist

Pairing: Frat! and Hockey! JJ x female!reader

TW:alcohol consumption, thats it I believe

Summary: You go to the game and realize that maybe JJ isn't so bad after all.

Word Count:4.2k

After spending days overthinking, Friday is finally here and you turn back and forth in the mirror while scrutinizing your appearance. What the hell are you supposed to wear to a Hockey game?

"Do I look okay?"

You look at Kie through the reflection and she rolls her eyes playfully.

"You look fucking gorgeous."

You twist your mouth and give yourself one last once over. It's nothing special; some jeans paired with Air Force Ones and an old band tee that you got in high school.

Sarah smirks with raised eyebrows as she watches you, and crosses her arms as she chuckles.

"For someone that swears she doesn't like this guy, you seem awfully concerned about looking good for him."

She giggles when you flip her off, and hands you your phone.

"Let's go. Wouldn't want to be late meeting lover boy." She teases, and you groan before shutting the door and bounding down the stairs and outside.

"Fuck off."

The scent of sugar and vanilla wafts to your nose as soon as you settle into Sarah's backseat, and the familiar environment eases your nerves the slightest bit. It's so undeniably her, and you can't help but smile at the photo booth strip she always keeps tucked into her visor.

Your comfort is soon interrupted when you kick a crushed monster can under the seat, and scrunch your nose.

"If my shoes get fucked up, you're buying me new ones."

Sarah turns the key and waves her hand dismissively, too focused on getting music set up.

"Yeah, yeah.'

The drive is short but fun, filled with loud singing and even louder laughing as you speed down the street with the windows down.

You rush to grab the door for stability when Sarah rockets over a curb, looking at her with wide eyes.

"Damn, bitch!"

She flips you the bird with a laugh and pulls into a parking spot before facing you.

"It was in my way."

You don't get a chance to respond before she hops out of the SUV and starts toward the door, leaving you and Kie to catch up.

You look around the crowd of students and strangers clad in team apparel, just narrowly missing someone's elbow as they maneuver past you.

"We need to find roll call." You half shout and the girls both nod while beginning to look around.

"It's over there." Sarah points, and you grab their hands to stick together.

The three of you make it past security and finally stop in front of the counter.

"I have three tickets reserved under Y/N."

You smile politely as the young girl starts rifling through a drawer, but she comes back empty-handed.

"I don't have any for that name. Sometimes the guys try to get people in but the younger players get the last pick. Who reserved them for you?"

You glance at Sarah and she shrugs with a frown, just as confused as you.

"Um, JJ Maybank." You answer, and she perks up.

"Oh!"

She returns a few seconds later holding an envelope and hands it to you with a smirk.

"So you're the infamous Keg Queen? I've got something else for you, stay there."

You frown at her weird behavior, but it starts to click when you look down and see the name written on the paper. You can't help the smile that burns your cheeks and you shake your head at his antics.

You look up when you see her coming back in your peripheral, and you already know what she's carrying.

"Oh my god."

You take the jersey from her with a laugh and tuck it under your arm.

"What did you mean infamous? How do you know my old nickname? I haven't been called that since leaving home." You inquire, and she gives a knowing smile.

"I'm one of the player's girlfriends. J squared has been talking about you all week at practice."

Her answer only leaves you more baffled, and she smiles with reassurance.

"Don't worry, you'll catch up on all the slang and nicknames. They call JJ J-squared and John B is Jombee; they all have a hockey name." She explains, and you nod while trying to stay afloat in a whole new territory.

"Right, thanks."

You walk off and jump when Sarah suddenly speaks up. You'd been so caught up that you forgot they were here for a moment.

"I didn't think he was serious about the jersey."

Sarah casts Kie a glance and they both shake their heads.

"Where are the seats?" Kie asks, and you try to scrunch your shoulders as you navigate through a sea of painted faces and jerseys. You manage to come out the other side without being marred by beer or nacho cheese and breathe a sigh of relief.

"Rinkside, right up on the glass." You finally respond, and Kie gives an approving nod.

Sarah raises her eyebrows, only half surprised that he secured you such good seats. You're standing in line for concessions when you decide it's easier to wear the jersey than carry it and slip it over your head just as you approach the counter.

You place your orders and go to pay, but when the guy looks up from his screen and sees you he refuses your card.

"You're covered."

You wait for him to elaborate, but he moves on to the next customer and leaves you with more questions than answers.

"What was that about?" You ask over the rim of your glass, making sure to cup your hand under your mouth as you walk in case it spills while you take a quick sip.

Both girls shrug as you lead the way, and you manage to make it to your section despite the chaos between you and your seats.

Your eyes widen when you finally sit down, now only a couple of feet from where the team sits. You weren't expecting to be so close to him, and you nibble on your lip at the realization. The hard plastic digs into your back as you shift around, trying to get as comfortable as possible.

You sit with your head high and shoulders back, absolutely refusing to show any sign of nerves. You're not the girl who stumbles over a boy and makes a fool of herself, no matter how much you're twirling your hair and squealing internally.

You jump when the crowd suddenly starts cheering and a loud voice comes over the speakers to start announcing the teams. The air is thick with the aroma of popcorn and sweat as people laugh and cheer, eagerly awaiting the puck drop.

Your shoes are sticking to old spilled beer and the person behind you keeps hitting your back with their knee, but the energy is unlike anything you've experienced. You can't help but smile as the boys make their entrance, and glance around at the screaming audience.

You watch as JJ skates across the ice while hyping the fans, and it's almost magical to see. He found his place here, drowning in notoriety and attention the way he could never have back home.

As soon as he's close enough, his eyes scan the crowd and light up when they land on you. He wasn't convinced you would show, and he'd be lying if he said his heart isn't racing in his chest. There's always a surge of adrenaline before a game, but having you here is a whole new rush.

Your fingers wiggle with a small wave, and he shoots you a wink while smiling around his mouthguard before turning back to the game.

He's in the zone tonight, hell-bent on playing his best to impress you. He tries to focus, but it's hard when he swears he can feel your eyes burning holes through the number on his back; the same number that currently adorns your frame.

You try your best to keep up, periodically googling something you don't understand and conversing with the girls. For the most part, you cheer when everybody else does and try to figure out what you're celebrating.

By the end of the first period, you've gathered enough information to have a general idea and find yourself having more fun than you expected. JJ makes a point to look at you every chance he gets and practically stares anytime he's on the bench.

You pretend not to notice, but Sarah and Kie pick up on the tension and use it to their advantage. What kind of best friends would they be if they didn't make fun of you a little bit?

"So when's the wedding?" Sarah teases, and you shoot her a sideways glare.

"Keep it up and you won't be invited."

Her mouth drops open in mock offense and you smirk with satisfaction before turning back to the rink.

You lean forward when JJ takes control of the puck, and everything seems to move in slow motion as he races forward and shoots it into the net seconds before the buzzer sounds for halftime.

As if your body has a mind of its own, you leap out of your seat and scream, the sound piercing through the whistles and cheers to cut straight through JJ. His eyes find you instantly, and his heart leaps at the sight of you acting as his own personal cheerleader.

"Stop looking at her like that, dude."

JJ's eyes never leave you as he tries to focus on his conversation to no avail.

"Like what?"

John B scoffs but elaborates nonetheless.

"Like you're in love."

JJ shrugs and shamelessly watches as you throw your head back in a laugh, exposing soft skin that he wants nothing more than to lay claim to.

"I'm not in love, dude. That would be crazy."

John B's eyebrows shoot up as he glances between you and his best friend and he shakes his head with a chuckle.

"Whatever, you're practically drawing a heart with your names in it."

JJ's only response is to flip him off, but John B's point is proven when the blonde is too distracted and skates face-first into the wall. Much to his relief, you don't seem to be paying attention and his cheeks burn red as he dips his head and races off the ice.

You sit back down while the guys disappear for a break, and the girls are staring at you with amusement.

"Don't look at me like that. You think I don't see the way you're eye fucking John B, Sarah?" You laugh, and she nods.

"Fair point, but I never claimed not to like him." She argues, and you roll your eyes.

The three of you are laughing when an employee suddenly appears and taps you on the shoulder.

"Y/N?" He asks sheepishly, and you smile politely while trying not to seem too suspicious.

"Yes?"

He nods his head toward the rink and you wait patiently for his next words.

"Someone's asking for you. You can follow me if you'd like."

Your eyebrows shoot up as you look at the girls, and resist the urge to slap the smug look off their faces.

"Not a word." You mock scold with a pointed finger, and they both raise their hands with small laughs.

You maneuver your way through the crowd and follow the man closely as he leads you further into the arena and away from the public eye. You briefly wonder if you should have questioned him and almost turn around, but your worries are put at ease when you see JJ standing in the service hallway grinning ear to ear.

"Thanks, Eric." He gives the guy a fist bump before he heads off, and turns to face you.

"I couldn't wait till the end of the game to tell you how good you look in my jersey."

Your cheeks burn hot and you stand up a little taller to try and camouflage the fact you're so flustered.

"Where are we?" You ask, skimming over the compliment with ease.

He watches you for a second before answering, and you know he's enjoying every second of this.

"Outside the locker rooms."

You give a small nod and JJ nearly collapses when you scrunch your nose in a way that reminds him of a bunny.

"It stinks like sweat and shitty cologne."

His laugh makes you smile, and you can't help but join in.

"You'll get used to it." He shrugs, and your eyebrow quirks.

"Are you trying to flirt with me?"

He takes a step closer and you stare up at him as he smirks triumphantly.

"Is it working?"

You tap your chin and pretend to think for a moment while moving closer, and just when he thinks he has you, your hand pats his cheek and you start walking backward in the direction you came from.

"Not even a little bit."

The sparkle never leaves his irises as you blow a kiss and wink before disappearing and he knows in that moment that he'll do whatever it takes to make you his.

By the time you find your way back to your seat, the team is re-entering the rink and you plop down between the girls. Despite your insistence that you don't have any feelings for the floppy-haired blonde, your radiant glow suggests otherwise.

Luckily, the girls don't get a chance to ask questions before the game resumes and you focus on the jersey that matches the one hanging from your body. Time seems to fly by, and before you know it, JJ scores the winning goal.

You're almost certain that your cheering can be heard over everyone else, but it doesn't stop you from screaming at the top of your lungs. You watch as they exit the rink to shower and stand to go wait in the lobby.

You figure he'd want you to at least say goodbye before heading out and you're in the middle of laughing with Kie when Sarah grabs your attention.

"Here comes your boy toy on skates."

You turn around to see what she's talking about, and sure enough, JJ is barreling toward you with John B barely keeping up. He struts up with newfound confidence and swings his arm to rest around your shoulder in a way that forces you closer to his body.

You ignoré the butterflies that erupt at the feeling of his strong muscles holding you against him and tuck a strand of hair behind your ear.

There's a moment of awkward silence before John B takes the initiative to formally introduce himself and you're grateful for the distraction as JJ's body wash and shampoo overwhelms your senses.

"I'm John B, but you can call me JB." He smiles, and Sarah nods.

"I remember, you used to work on the Druthers during the summer."

He looks genuinely taken aback and stutters a few times before finally landing on a response.

"Yeah, that was me. Never thought you noticed me."

She rakes he eyes over him slowly in a way that would make even you buckle, and you resist the urge to laugh as he falls prey to her alluring looks and personality.

"Oh trust me, I noticed you."

There's another beat of silence before JJ speaks, and you tilt your head up to look at him.

"We're gonna go hit a local bar to celebrate. You guys down?"

There's hardly any room for argument as you're practically glued to JJ's frame and Sarah has practically sunk her teeth into poor John B. You nod with a smile, doing your best not to be charmed by the way JJ does a cute little fist bump.

"Who all is going?" Kiara asks, and you wonder when you became so enthralled with the blonde that you lost the common sense to get details.

"Just us and a few of the other guys. Our other friend, Pope, who was at the party is coming too. Is that okay?"

JJ doesn't elaborate the way he wants to. He doesn't add that if it's not okay, he'll gladly ditch them in a heartbeat. He'll do anything if it means getting to spend more time in your company.

"Yeah, that's fine." You affirm, and he responds by pressing a short kiss to your hair that makes your head swim.

"Perfect."

JJ sends you the address, and before you know it you're piling back into Sarah's car. Your anxiety spikes when see how packed the parking lot is and it only worsens when you walk through the door to a new environment overrun by college kids.

The guys are already inside, and you smile when JJ spots you and starts toward you. Within seconds his hand is on your lower back as he guides you toward a table full of rowdy guys that you somewhat recognize from around campus.

He stops when you reach the group, and pulls you back into him with his arm loosely draped around your waist.

"How'd you find a table so quickly?"

You lean into his touch when he bends down to speak directly in your ear, but you still strain to hear him over the thumping bass from the dance floor.

"This spot is always reserved for us. Player privilege." He explains, and you open your mouth to form an 'o'.

"Ah, I see. So you abuse your status as captain?" You jest, and he looks back at you with a sparkle in his eye that you are beginning to realize is a sign of mischief.

"I wouldn't say abuse. I'm an opportunist. If being captain of the hockey team happens to open doors for me, I'm going to walk through them."

You smirk and tilt your head toward the bar.

"So if you have the opportunity to buy a cute college girl a drink, you'll take it?" You half shout, and he really thinks he might be in love.

"Only if she can kick my ass at beer pong and wears my jersey."

You can't help the wide smile that overtakes your face, and you swear your cheeks are going to be sore by the end of the night.

"Looks like the Universe is on your side, then."

Two hours and one too many shots later, you're clinging to JJ like he's a lifeline and you've made yourself at home with his friends. Loud giggles leave both your lips as you lean further into his side while you watch one of the members, Bruiser, try and fail to get a girl's number.

Your eyes shine with mischief as you take a sip of your drink and tsk at the younger boy as he sits back down dejected.

"That was brutal." You tease, and the entire table erupts in laughter when he flips you off and grumbles under his breath. Seeing you banter with his closest friends makes JJ feel warm and fuzzy, and he can't help but picture this same scenario but ten years from now with a ring on your finger.

Your eyes lock with Sarah's across the table as she mirrors your comfortable position with John B, and Kiara is in deep conversation about wildlife preservation with Pope. It's not exactly how you saw your night going, but to your surprise, you're having a lot of fun.

"You smell good," JJ whispers and you tilt your head back to look up at him through long eyelashes that make his heart stutter.

"I wish I could say the same, but you reek like old spice and athlete's foot."

His mouth drops open and he puts his hand over his heart as he feigns offense before pinching your side and eliciting a loud squeal.

"You wound me."

Maybe it's the alcohol or maybe it's the way the neon lights buzzing overhead bask him in a bright glow, but before you can think you lean forward and press a kiss to his knuckles that are still laying flat across his chest.

"Better?"

There's a certain innocence to your tone that tells JJ your motive was pure, but it doesn't stop his pupils from dilating with lust at the doe eyes you're giving him.

He's mere seconds from stumbling over his words and carrying you back to his room when the bartender announces last call, and he breathes a sigh of relief. He doesn't understand why you specifically can fluster him so easily when he's spent years perfecting his craft, but he knows it's something rare and special.

"We should probably get back." You sigh, and JJ resists tightening his hold until you morph into one body as you start to stand up.

Sarah and Kie seem to notice your movement and excuse themselves as well, but not before exchanging phone numbers with their respective boys.

"Do you need a ride? I can call an Uber and ride back with you so you don't get kidnapped." JJ offers only half joking, but you shake your head.

"I haven't been drinking," Kiara interjects, and she almost feels bad when she sees the kicked puppy look on JJ's face.

"Text me when you get back so I know you're safe?"

The sentiment causes a wide smile to pull at your lips and you nod before pressing a short kiss to his cheek.

He watches as the three of you walk out with your arms around each other while laughing and John B shakes his head.

"Is our little JJ growing up? Has he finally met the woman that can put an end to his wondering eye and dog-like ways?" He teases, and JJ flips off the group as they all make mocking kissy noises.

"Fuck off."

Meanwhile, you're subjected to the same torment the entire way back. Your head lays against the cool glass window as you try to block out the sound of Sarah and Kie's goading.

"So you seemed really cozy." Kie smirks, and you roll your eyes before kicking the back of her seat.

"Just friends, Keeks."

She scrunches her nose at the nickname, a moniker you know she hates and that you only use when you want to get under her skin. She lets it slide though, and turns around with a scoff when she comes to a red light.

"Yeah, friends totally look at each other like that."

You groan loudly when you realize she isn't going to let it go, and breathe a sigh of relief when her attention is momentarily drawn back to the road when the car behind you honks.

"I treat him the same way I treat all my guy friends."

This seems to grab Sarah's attention and much to your dismay, she joins in suddenly.

"No, you don't. You were friends with Rafe and Topper yet you never once let them get that close or gave them that big doe-eyed look you always have when you're talking to JJ."

"Okay, why am I being interrogated?" You whine, and the girls just laugh.

"We just want you to admit that there might be more to your feelings than you're letting on." Sarah shrugs, and you finally throw your hands up in defeat.

"Okay, fine! Maybe I have a little thing for him, but it doesn't matter. He's just in it for sex like every other college jock."

You're about to go on a whole rant when your phone suddenly vibrates and cuts you off. You slide it out of your pocket just as you finally step out of the car, and your heart races at the name on the screen.

"Oh."

Sarah frowns and leans over, nearly knocking you down in the process to get a look at what has your attention. You angle it toward her so she can read better, and her eyebrows shoot up as she scans over the text.

Did you get home safe, cupcake?

"Just in it for sex, huh? Last I checked guys like that don't care about your safety and well-being."

You ignore her and focus on responding, just typing out a simple yes and hitting send. Barely a second passes before the bubbles pop up to show he's typing, and a smile tugs at your lips against your will.

Good, because I expect to see you again at next week's game and if I'm lucky enough maybe even before then

You shake your head with a chuckle and the girls watch from the sidelines with knowing looks.

hmm, we'll see

You don't wait for a response before heading into the house and your best friends are hot on your heels.

"You're in deep this time, you know that right?" Kie asks, and you stop in front of your room just long enough to respond.

"I know."

At that, you close the door and head to the bathroom to start your nightly routine.

After washing your face and brushing your teeth, you slip off your jeans and crawl into bed. In your still buzzed state, your inhibitions are down and you find yourself pulling the jersey up over your nose to inhale the now-familiar scent of JJ.

It doesn't take long to doze off, and even in your dreams, you seem to know that one way or the other, you're not coming out of this the same person.

#jj maybank imagine #jj maybank x reader #jj maybank #jj maybank fluff #jj maybank au #jj maybank hockey #jj maybank frat #jj maybank series #outer banks imagine #outer banks x reader #outer banks series #outer banks au #outer banks fluff #outer banks hockey #outer banks frat #obx imagine #obx series #obx au

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of-many-aus · 9 months

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To try and get me back into writing, I’m going to start a new series!! (Shocker)

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yns-world · 1 year

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golden boy

part iii of the euphoria au!outer banks series

part i part ii part iv

title: golden boy

pairing: euphoria au!jj maybank x reader

word count: 1.3k

warnings: mentions of domestic abuse, toxic relationship, emotional cheating

a/n: this fic is kinda depressing so i had to use a slutty gif to balance things out 🙏🙏🙏 IN JJ WE TRUST 🙏🙏🙏

italics = rue narrating

fem reader, racially ambiguous, any size reader

JJ Maybank. The sweet, Golden Retriever boy. Nothing but laughs, because if he stopped laughing, he’ll start crying. He’s had a hard life, hasn’t he? No mother, no real father— just some stupid asshole that he lives with.

In a way, he’s a lot like Y/N. They both grew up with the worst kind of abuse, yet they turned into rays of sunlight— of course, that was before Y/N snapped. Speaking of which, why did she snap? She looked perfectly normal to us.

She snapped because they all ignored her when she cried, begged, and pleaded to be saved.

She became a monster in order to survive.

JJ remembers a time when Y/N used to be so cheerful, so full of light. But back then, they were still from two different worlds; and a sun doesn’t intrude on another sun’s galaxy. He would watch her from afar, taking her in glances, and he was content with that.

But he wasn’t content when Rafe came in and sucked all that sunshine out of her. The change was so sudden that it gave people whiplash, but JJ most of all. You see, to him, Y/N was another beacon, a buoy, that made him feel sane. So to watch her change like that killed him.

It hurt even more when he realized just how violent and aggressive she became; Y/N became a projection of all of Rafe’s insecurities, she became a mirror of all his flaws.

Or that’s what JJ thought.

Deep down, JJ knew that this was just a side of Y/N that Rafe had brought out— this ugly, bitter, revengeful side had always been there, buried deep inside her. And JJ had this exact same side inside him, always there, always hiding in the shadows.

Because of this, JJ could never hate her. If anything, it only pushed him to want to reach out to her, to let her know that there is at least one person that cares, someone that understands her pain.

It was lunch and Y/N had been standing outside in the courtyard for the past hour. The warning winds of winter surrounded the school but it didn’t come close to bitterness inside Y/N. The cold that nipped at her face and skin didn’t measure to the boiling rage she held.

Y/N enjoyed the bitter cold because no one was stupid enough to join her outside and bother her. The cool, thinning air was able to clear her thoughts, it brought silence to her screaming mind.

She was alone, truly alone, for the first time in days. The fresh air was whisking Rafe’s cologne off her, the wind was whipping at the 14 carat chains around her. She didn’t even feel the tears on her face until someone pointed them out.

“Y/N? What’s wrong?”

JJ was walking past the courtyard, taking part in his friends’ meaningless conversation, when he saw a lone figure standing and looking straight at a tree.

He could recognize that mink coat anywhere. But why was she alone? That’s what JJ couldn’t figure out.

JJ isn’t one to get into people’s businesses, but his soul ached for her. His brain and heart both decided that he needed to see her.

He didn’t feel his legs move, he didn’t remember how he got there, all he remembers were the silent tears on Y/N’s face— her stoic, unmoving, perfect face.

But her eyes gave her away. They were swarming with so much agony and hate. If he didn’t know her, it would’ve scared JJ.

“Y/N? What’s wrong?”

His voice broke her thoughts, bringing her back to the surface. He could see it in her eyes; how she blinked back into the presence; how that cold, hard anger melted as she realized that JJ stood directly in front of her.

In a matter of seconds, her face contorted into the most emotion that JJ has ever seen from her— she looked like a child in misery, and she lunged into his arms, sobbing into his shoulder.

Instead of pushing her off, JJ just brought her closer, nearly crushing her to his chest, but that was all she wanted.

She wanted somebody to care. She wanted somebody to see her as a real person and not just as some 2D antagonist.

That day in the courtyard bonded the two in ways that Rafe and Y/N never could. JJ was someone that Y/N could rely on, he was always in her corner.

That same night, JJ went over to Y/N’s house.

They didn’t kiss, they didn’t fuck, they just laid side by side and JJ listened to Y/N spend the whole night talking about all the people (primarily men, but her mother gets a nice feature, too) that fucked her over.

JJ listened to every word with his whole heart, and wrapped his arms around her when she began crying again.

Unlike Rafe, JJ never left her that night— or any night that he was over.

During the day, they would have to pretend that they never knew each other, but as soon as the school bell dismisses them, they go back to their soulmate-like relationship.

Their relationship seemed complicated, but to them, it wasn’t. They didn’t put a label on what they had, but that didn’t stop the rumors from festering.

People were quick to notice the mutual eye contact between JJ and Y/N.

People noticed all the times that Y/N would acknowledge him in the halls, even while she had a rabid dog on her arms.

People used to think that Y/N was cheating on Rafe with the dead football player, but she wasn't cheating at all. If anything, you could argue that she’s emotionally cheating with JJ, but could you blame her?

It's not like Rafe was offering her any emotional support. The longer that Y/N went out with Rafe, the more she felt like a trophy for him to brag about.

No, she was more like a doll for him to dress up in pretty clothes and expensive jewelry, but he would throw her to the side as soon as he saw snow.

People mistake his possessiveness for love. Rafe was possessive of his toys, no one was able to play with them. But he wouldn’t play with his toys, either. He would just throw Y/N to the back of the closet to rot, making sure to lock the door so she could never escape.

JJ wasn’t like that at all. He saw her. He saw past the facade that Y/N so desperately tries to keep alive. He knows exactly where she’s coming from, he understands her and makes her feel normal.

JJ makes her feel desired, he makes her feel seen and accepted.

With JJ, she felt the most comfortable.

It’s been months since JJ started coming over to Y/N’s place. He’s always over when Rafe isn’t there.

Like so many other countless times, Y/N was sitting in between JJ’s legs, his hands running up and down her arms as he listened to Y/N.

“Am I a monster?” Y/N choked out, tears stinging her eyes.

JJ turned her head so she could look at him. “You’re not a monster.” There was so much conviction in his voice that Y/N nearly believed him. “You’re just a product of your environment. Plus, a monster wouldn’t worry about being a monster.” He tried to lighten the mood with his last sentence, but Y/N didn’t care. His words were what she needed to hear.

His words calmed the storm inside her but fed another flame in her heart.

Mere centimeters separated their faces and Y/N could feel his breath on her lips.

“JJ…” Y/N whispered, but he didn’t let her finish. He pressed his lips against hers, attempting to suck all the pain from her. And she let him. She also let him fuck all the problems away.

For a night, she was free.

For a night, she felt loved for who she was.

a/n: DON’T BE A GHOST READER!!!!! let me know your thoughts, opinions, ideas, etc in the comments!!! i love talking with y’all <3

if you enjoyed reading, please consider reblogging and tipping, they help my account more than likes :)

i'm open to requests! free feel to request, just make sure to read my pinned post for request rules <3

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