Chapter Text
The Outer Banks had never felt so heavy.
Kiara stood at the edge of the dock, staring out at the water. Her mind replayed the scene over and over—JJ’s body, lifeless and cold, his absence gnawing at her soul. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing—someone was missing. Her best friend, her partner in crime, her constant companion. And now, the world felt off-kilter.
A soft rustling sound came from behind her. Kiara didn’t turn around. She knew who it was without needing to look.
Rafe Cameron was standing there, his presence calm yet grounding. She hadn’t spoken much to him since the events that had transpired with Sarah, and even then, their interactions had been more tense than not. But now, something in his eyes was different—softer, almost.
He stepped closer, quietly taking in the sight of her. She could feel his gaze on her, but it wasn’t the usual judgmental stare she was used to. There was an understanding there, one that made her feel strangely at ease despite everything.
“I’m sorry,” Rafe said after a long moment. His voice was rough, as if he’d been fighting his own emotions all day. “I don’t know what to say, but… I’m sorry.”
Kiara didn’t know how to respond. The words felt too heavy, too final. She hadn’t expected Rafe to approach her, especially not with such softness. But there he was, standing quietly beside her, offering her a moment of peace in the chaos.
“It’s fine,” she whispered, her voice breaking. She hadn’t wanted to let herself cry in front of him, but the tears spilled out anyway.
Rafe didn’t say anything more. Instead, he gently put a hand on her shoulder, a simple gesture that felt like a lifeline. Kiara leaned into it, taking comfort in his unexpected kindness.