After the Storm- JJ Maybank (Outer Banks)

8.

My phone vibrated against my waist in my pocket. I took it out and smiled. Seeing a text from JJ.

Everything just seemed so odd, I had just met him in the middle of the night and we basically instantly clicked. I could see him being my best friend.

JJ
____

Rach, it's JJ. I forgot to take some polaroids of you through your window last night. Can I come by now to return the favor? ;)

received at 11:32pm.

I just sat and smiled at the text for a moment. He was so sweet and kind, and he was funny. I liked that. My mind couldn't erase him, his long blonde hair. His blue eyes. But then I remembered Rafe and all the ignored text messages.

Rafe
_____

Hey, I saw you made it home last night. I'm sorry.

received at 9:23am.

Hey, I'm really sorry Rachel. Can we talk?

received at 3:42pm.

Rachel, are you okay? Did I do something?

received at 8:39pm.

Another one had came through.

I'm going to assume that I did something wrong and I want to apologize. I didn't mean to hurt you. I hope we can stay friends.

received at 11:33pm.

I ignored it and went back to JJ's contact.

JJ
____

Of course you can. Window is open :) Don't hurt yourself.

Only would be hurting myself falling for you.

He really knew how to make me want more. I barely knew the dude and I already wanted to just buckle at his voice. I heard a tapping at my window and saw his figure outside of it.

"That was fast." He opened the window slowly, standing in the window.

"I was already kinda on my way." He scratched the back of his neck.

"Where's the polaroid?"

"Shit. Forgot it." He scoffed.

I go over to my desk and grab my polaroid, holding it up.

"What was your plan?"

"Was hoping I'd catch you sleeping."

"You've gotta be joking."

"No. I'm dead serious."

"Alright, J. What are we doing? Going to the beach? Sneaking out?"

"Is that what you wanna do?"

"Yeah! I love the thrill."

"Alright. Let's go." He holds out his hand for me to get on the roof.

"I've never snuck out before."

"You ain't livin' huh? Do I gotta have you home by midnight?"

"No. You can keep me out all night for all I care."