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The hum of conversation and the clatter of dishes filled The Wreck, the smell of fried seafood and lemon zest wafting through the air. Imani stood behind the counter, wiping her hands on her apron as she scanned the dining room. Her dark curls were pulled back into a low bun, stray strands framing her face as she tried to focus on work and not the ache in her feet. The restaurant was bustling—another sunny day on OBX meant endless customers, many of whom were tourists, with the occasional group of locals trickling in.

Beside her, Sofia slid a tray of glasses onto the counter. Her sun-kissed skin glowed in the golden afternoon light, and her grin was infectious. Sofia was a new hire at The Wreck, a Pogue from the Cut who had worked just about everywhere on the island—cleaning boats, babysitting, odd jobs at the marina. She had an easy way of talking to people, and a knack for making Imani laugh when she needed it most.

Despite their different upbringings, they'd hit it off instantly. Sofia had easily become a close friend of Imani's.

"Think we'll get a break anytime soon?" Sofia asked.

"Only if the apocalypse happens," Imani replied dryly, tossing the towel onto the counter.

Sofia chuckled, leaning an elbow on the counter to scan the room. "It's not that bad. I mean, you're stuck with me, so that's gotta count for something."

Imani smirked. "Lucky me."

"Little shit," Sofia swatted her towel at Imani, making the latter stumble back and laugh.

The door swung open then, the sound of it crashing against the frame cutting through the noise of the restaurant. Imani's smile faltered. She didn't even have to look to know who had just walked in.

Cynthia and her entourage—Ruthie, and a couple of other Kooks—strolled in like they owned the place. Imani stiffened, her jaw tightening as she watched the girls glance around with thinly veiled judgment before settling on a table near the window.

Sofia caught the shift in Imani's demeanour immediately. "You okay?" she asked softly, leaning closer so only Imani could hear.

Imani's lips curled into a sarcastic smile as she muttered under her breath, "Oh, I'm great. Nothing like a visit from royalty to brighten your day."

Sofia gave her a playful nudge before straightening up. "I'll take their table," she said, grabbing a notepad and pen.

"You sure?"

"Please. I've dealt with worse than a bunch of overgrown Barbie dolls," Sofia said with a wink.

Imani stayed behind the counter, arms crossed as she watched Sofia approach the group. A small smile tugged at her lips. At least she wasn't facing this alone.

She busied herself behind the counter, pretending to clean a spotless glass, but her attention was locked on Sofia's interaction with Cynthia and her clique. She didn't trust those girls—they were always looking for someone to talk down to, someone to make an example of. And now, Sofia was in their sights.

At first, Sofia's natural charm seemed to disarm them. She greeted the table with a polite smile, asking if they wanted menus or were ready to order. But as she handed over the menus, Ruthie's voice cut through the air like a blade.

"Do you even know how to carry a menu without dropping it?" Ruthie said, her words loud enough for half the restaurant to hear.

Imani felt her stomach churn. She could feel her grip tightening on the glass in her hand as she glared at Ruthie from behind the counter.

Cynthia let out a laugh that was as fake as it was cutting. "Ruthie, don't be mean. She's doing her best," she said with an exaggerated sweetness that practically dripped with sarcasm. Then, turning to Sofia, she added in a quieter, almost conspiratorial tone, "I mean, it must be hard, though, right? You know, juggling work and... well, everything else." Her eyes flicked to Sofia's worn sneakers and the frayed edges of her jean shorts—a subtle, but deliberate, insult.

Sofia hesitated, her smile stiffening ever so slightly. She wasn't new to this kind of treatment, but that didn't make it any less infuriating. "It's not so bad," she said evenly, refusing to let them get a rise out of her. "Keeps me on my toes."

Imani couldn't take it anymore. She tossed the towel she'd been holding onto the counter and took a step forward, her protective instincts kicking in.

But then, Sofia glanced over her shoulder, catching Imani's eye. A small shake of her head told Imani to stay put.

Sofia turned back to the table "So, what can I get you?" she asked, her tone bright and professional, refusing to give them the satisfaction of a reaction.

Cynthia smirked, leaning back in her chair as if she'd won. "We'll start with waters. And don't take too long, okay? We're on a schedule."

Imani clenched her fists, barely holding herself back. She wanted nothing more than to storm over there and give Cynthia and her posse a piece of her mind, but Sofia's calm courage kept her rooted in place.

When Sofia returned to the counter to grab the waters, she flashed Imani a grin. "You can stop glaring daggers at them now," she said under her breath.

"I'm this close to dumping this jug of water on their heads," Imani muttered, her voice tight.

"Tempting, but not worth it," Sofia replied. "Let me handle them. Besides, I've dealt with worse."

Imani sighed, her anger simmering just below the surface. "You're too nice."

"Kill 'em with kindness," Sofia shrugged playfully.

Thirty minutes had passed by and suddenly the tension was palpable as Cynthia's table erupted into complaints the moment their food arrived. Ruthie waved her fork dramatically over her plate like she was inspecting it for poison. "Is this supposed to be medium-rare?" she snapped, her voice carrying across the room.

Sofia's jaw tightened as she tried to explain. "I can have the kitchen remake it—"

"No," Cynthia interrupted, her tone sharp as she flipped her hair over her shoulder. "I want to speak to the manager. This is ridiculous."

Sofia ran back to the counter, her face neutral but her hands gripping the edge tightly.

"What happened?" Imani asked gently.

"I want to speak to the manager," Cynthia declared loudly, sitting back in her chair with an exaggerated sigh of irritation.

Imani exhaled slowly, wiping her hands on her apron before making her way over. The moment Cynthia saw her, her expression shifted into faux surprise.

"Oh! Imani," Cynthia said, feigning innocence. "I didn't know you worked here."

Imani folded her arms. "My family owns the place."

"Oh, I didn't know that," Cynthia tilted her head, her smile saccharine.

"You literally made eye contact with me as soon as you entered. Maybe you should get your brain checked out for short term memory loss then," Imani rolled her eyes.

Cynthia's smile faltered, her friends dramatically gasping. "How dare she?" Ruthie muttered to Cynthia.

"Well, then, I need to speak to the manager," Cynthia demanded.

Imani raised a brow. "You're speaking to her."

Cynthia's lips twitched in irritation, but she pressed on. "Fine. Then maybe you can explain why the food is inedible, this place looks dusty, and the service? Don't even get me started." She shot a pointed look at Sofia.

"Yeah," Ruthie chimed in with a sneer. "Does she even know what she's doing?"

Imani inhaled deeply, her jaw tightening. "You know, it's funny," she said, her voice laced with sarcasm. "For people who apparently hate this place, you sure are spending a lot of time here. If you wanted a Michelin-star meal and five-star service, maybe you shouldn't have walked into a waterfront seafood shack that is literally on display before you walk in. Just a thought."

Cynthia's smile twisted into something colder. "Wow. That's really professional, Imani. But I shouldn't be surprised. You've always had a big mouth." She leaned back in her chair, inspecting her nails as if she were bored. "Don't think I've forgotten what you said about me at school."

Imani didn't flinch. Instead, she shrugged, meeting Cynthia's gaze with cool defiance. "Then don't be a bitch to people and you won't get the same treatment back. It's not nice when it happens to you, is it?"

Gasps rippled through the nearby tables, and for a moment, Cynthia's mask cracked. Her cheeks flushed red, and her nails dug into the edge of the table. "You're going to regret that," she hissed, her voice low enough for only Imani to hear.

"Is that a threat?" Imani shot back, her tone sharp. "Because you tend to give them out but nothing happens," she rolled her eyes. "Every time." She added.

Cynthia's smirk returned. "You'll see." With a deliberate flick of her wrist, she shoved the plate of half-eaten food toward the edge of the table. It tipped, crashing onto the floor with a clatter of ceramic and food splattering across the tiles.

Cynthia sat back with a self-satisfied smile. "Oops. Looks like you have something to clean up."

Imani's jaw tightened, but she refused to let Cynthia see her anger. Instead, she grabbed a jug of water from the counter, her movements slow and deliberate. "Absolutely," she said sweetly, and before Cynthia could react, she tipped the jug over her head. The icy water poured down Cynthia's perfectly styled hair, soaking her dress as she let out a shriek.

The restaurant fell silent.

Cynthia shot to her feet, water dripping onto the floor as she glared at Imani, rage twisting her features. "You're dead," she spat, lunging forward.

"Try it, and see what happens," Imani said evenly, standing her ground. Her voice was calm, but her eyes burned with defiance. "Now. Get. Out."

"What's going on here?"

Standing near the entrance was Mike Carrera loomed with Kiara by his side. His usually warm face was set in a no-nonsense glare with Kiara also glaring at them.

Cynthia glared at Imani, then back at Mike. "Your daughter—"

"I heard enough," Mike cut her off sharply. "You don't come into my restaurant, threaten my daughter, and act like this. You're done here. Get out, and don't come back."

Cynthia opened her mouth as if to argue, but the look Mike gave her made her think better of it. She huffed, grabbing her bag. Ruthie trailed behind her, muttering, "We're leaving a bad review."

"Make sure to spell everything right this time!" Kiara called after them, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

Cynthia shot Kiara a withering glare before storming out, her entourage scrambling to follow her.

"Oh, shiver me timbers," Kiara mocked.

The restaurant quieted as everyone's attention slowly returned to their meals. Mike approached Imani, his stern expression softening as he cupped her face. "You okay?"

Imani nodded, her shoulders relaxing. "Yeah. It's handled."

He turned to Sofia. "And you?"

Sofia smiled. "I'm fine. A little impressed, actually."

Mike chuckled, shaking his head. "Next time, call me and i'll handle it, alright?"

Imani smirked. "Where's the fun in that?"

Kiara groaned. "I should've taken this shift instead." Mike chuckled his head, grabbing her shoulder and taking her into the kitchen.

Sofia leaned against the counter, when her gaze shifted across the restaurant. She nudged Imani with her elbow. "Hey," she whispered, a teasing lilt in her voice. "I think that guy's looking at you."

Imani frowned, wiping her hands on her apron. "What guy?"

Sofia tilted her chin toward the entrance. "Over there."

Imani followed her line of sight, her breath hitching slightly when she spotted Rafe entering. His sharp blue eyes were fixed on her, and when he caught her looking, he tilted his head ever so slightly toward the back exit, a silent invitation.

Her stomach flipped. She quickly looked away, but not before Sofia caught the faint flush creeping up Imani's cheeks.

Sofia gasped, her grin widening. "Wait a second. You and Rafe Cameron?!"

Imani's lips parted in protest, but her shy smile gave her away. She avoided Sofia's gaze, fiddling with the edge of her apron. "It's nothing," she muttered, shaking her head.

"Nothing?" Sofia snorted. "That's the Kook prince himself and he's trying to get you to sneak out with him."

"Shut up," Imani hissed, though she couldn't help the small, embarrassed laugh that escaped.

"Okay, okay," Sofia said, holding up her hands in mock surrender. "But seriously, go. I've got things under control here. I'll make up an excuse for your dad too."

Imani hesitated, glancing back at Rafe. He was still watching her, his expression unreadable but his intention clear.

"You sure?" Imani asked, biting her lip.

Sofia rolled her eyes dramatically. "Please. I'll even throw water on the next customer just to keep things interesting. Now go."

Imani sighed, smoothing her apron before pulling it off and hanging it on the hook behind the counter. She glanced at Sofia one more time. "You say one word about this—"

"Relax, your secret's safe with me," Sofia interrupted, smirking. "For now."

Imani gave her a mock glare before slipping out through the kitchen, her heart racing as she made her way to the back where Rafe waited.

━━━━━━━━━━

The back of The Wreck was quiet, the golden light of the setting sun casting long shadows across the gravel lot. Imani pushed open the door, stepping outside into the humid air. Her eyes scanned the space until they landed on Rafe, leaning casually against his truck with that familiar smirk tugging at his lips.

A laugh bubbled out of her, and she broke into a run, her sneakers crunching against the gravel. "You're unbelievable," she giggled as she reached him, throwing her arms around his neck. Rafe caught her with ease, lifting her off the ground as her laughter filled the air.

"Fucking missed you," he mumbled against her neck

When he set her down, his hands stayed at her waist, his eyes locked on hers. "What are you doing here?" she asked, still grinning.

Rafe's smirk deepened as he leaned in, his forehead gently bumping against hers. "Am I not allowed to see my girl?"

Imani's cheeks warmed, her smile softening as she pulled back slightly to meet his gaze. "I guess you are," she teased, her voice light.

"I hope so," he murmured, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

She bit her lip, her grin widening. "You'll never believe what happened earlier."

"Oh yeah?" Rafe asked, his tone playful.

"I threw a jug of water on Cynthia Davis' head."

His expression flickered with delight as he laughed. "That's my girl," he said proudly, giving her waist a playful squeeze.

She laughed with him, but before she could reply, his expression grew serious. His voice dropped to a low murmur. "But say the word, baby, and I'll get rid of her for you."

Imani rolled her eyes, though her heart fluttered at the protective edge in his tone. "It's fine," she said, resting a hand on his chest. "I've got it handled."

"I know," Rafe said, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "That's one of the things about you that caught my eye. You stand up for yourself. You don't take anyone's crap."

"Especially yours," she poked his chest.

"Damn right," he chuckled, before taking her hand and speaking, "Baby."

"Hm?"

"You still haven't unblocked me yet."

Imani feigned innocence, tilting her head as if she hadn't a clue what he was talking about. "I haven't?"

Rafe raised an eyebrow, his expression both amused and slightly exasperated. "Don't play with me. It's been a week and i'm suffering here. You won't even let me back in your room too."

"Maybe your punishment has been served as of today," she teased, her lips curving into a sly smile.

Rafe grinned, a playful glint in his eyes. "Good, because I'm taking you out tonight."

Imani's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Oh, really?" she asked, pretending to be taken aback, though a rush of excitement bubbled inside her.

"Really," Rafe confirmed, his smile widening. "Dress your pretty self up."

Imani laughed, rolling her eyes at the way he always spoke with such confidence. "You really think you can just tell me what to wear?"

"I know I can," he shot back, giving her a quick wink. "Besides, I know you want to impress me."

She smirked, shaking her head. "Keep dreaming, Cameron."

"You're always in my dreams, Carrera."

But then she felt the urge to pull away, the conversation shifting in her mind. "I should get back," she said, reluctantly stepping back.

Rafe's grip on her waist tightened as she tried to move, and he pulled her back toward him. "You're forgetting something."

Imani raised an eyebrow, confused. "What?"

Without another word, he reached up, his fingers curling around her jaw as he pulled her in and kissed her. It was hard and intense, his lips pressing against hers with a fervor that made her knees go weak. Her hand found its way to his chest, her fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt as she leaned into him.

When they finally pulled apart, she was breathless, her lips tingling from the heat of his kiss. She looked up at him with a smile, feeling both exhilarated and a little dizzy.

She really liked kissing him.

"Don't forget next time," his voice low and commanding, as his hand held her jaw in place with his lips inches away from her.

"Okay," she nodded in a daze.

Rafe's lips curled into a grin as he let go of her jaw, his thumb brushing across her lower lip. "Good girl."

Imani wanted to fuck him right then and there.

━━━━━━━━━━

Rafe stood leaning against his truck, his eyes scanning the quiet street beneath the glow of the streetlights. The night was warm, and he had been waiting for a few minutes, his patience simmering as he checked his phone for the time. Then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw her.

Imani was walking toward him, her silhouette bathed in the soft light of the evening. She wore a floral mini sundress that flowed with every step she took, the fabric catching the breeze and dancing around her legs. Her curls tumbled around her shoulders, framing her face like a halo. As she drew closer, he noticed that adorable look she always wore—the one where she was caught between a smile and a smirk, like she knew something he didn't.

Rafe straightened up, a grin spreading across his face as he watched her approach. He couldn't help himself; she looked so damn perfect, it made his heart ache.

"What do you think?" Imani smiled, as she stood in front of him.

"Give me a twirl, baby," he rasped, extending his hand toward her.

She arched an eyebrow but obliged, taking his hand and spinning gracefully with a giggle. Rafe's gaze lingered on her as she completed the spin, and when she turned back to face him, he couldn't help but compliment her.

"You're fucking beautiful," he said, his voice low, as he pulled her close again.

"Stop staring like a dog in heat."

Rafe groaned, the intensity of his attraction to her clear in the way he tightened his grip on her waist. "Fuck, baby," he muttered, his voice thick with admiration.

Imani noticed the way he was looking at her, that possessive hunger that only seemed to intensify the more he saw her. But then something about the look on his face made her pause. She placed a hand on his cheek, her eyes searching his face. "What's wrong?" she asked, her voice suddenly soft with concern.

He let out a heavy sigh, his eyes darkening. "I'm probably gonna have to kill anyone who sets their eyes on you tonight," he said, his tone low and serious.

Imani blinked, surprised by the gravity in his words. She laughed, thinking it was just one of his usual playful comments, but then she caught the look in his eyes. He wasn't laughing. He was deadly serious.

"You're kidding, right?" she asked with a light laugh.

He didn't say anything, just shrugging his shoulders with a playful pout.

Her smile faded, and without thinking, she slapped him lightly on the chest. "What the hell is wrong with you?" she scolded, though her voice carried a note of concern.

Rafe pulled her back to him, his hands firmly grasping her shoulders as he held her close. "I'm a proactive type of person, baby. I don't take chances when it comes to you."

Imani raised an eyebrow, but there was a hint of amusement in her eyes. "Well, I guess that's one way to say it." She pulled away slightly, giving him a playful look. "Don't get too carried away, Romeo. I can handle myself."

Rafe's lips twitched into a grin. "Oh, I know you can." He nodded toward his truck. "Now, get your pretty ass in the car, baby."

Imani laughed as he opened the door for her, but as she went to climb in, he leaned in and buckled her seatbelt for her.

"I can do it myself," she said, smiling as she straightened her dress.

Rafe's eyes softened, his touch gentle as he adjusted the seatbelt, making sure it clicked into place. "Let me take care of you," he said quietly, leaning in for a moment to press a soft kiss to her forehead before stepping back and rounding the car to the driver's side.

━━━━━━━━━━

Rafe had taken Imani to a concert that night—a small, intimate show at a venue tucked away in the heart of the city. As the music swelled, Imani had come alive in a way that made Rafe's heart race. She laughed freely, her curls bouncing as she danced along to the beat, her eyes sparkling with joy. It was the happiest he'd ever seen her, and he couldn't take his eyes off her. Her laughter echoed through the venue, infectious and pure, and he found himself lost in the moment—watching her spin and sway, her every movement a reflection of the joy he'd longed to see.

Later, they ended up at a small, local ice cream parlour. Imani was leaning against his chest, her head resting on his shoulder as she peered into the freezer, trying to choose which flavour she wanted. Rafe wrapped his arm around her waist, his thumb brushing over the soft fabric of her dress as they debated over the ice cream.

"Chocolate mint is the best—" Rafe started, but Imani interrupted him with an exaggerated eye roll.

"Ugh, no way. That's literally the worst flavour," she said, making a face. "It's like toothpaste with a scoop of chocolate. You're weird."

Rafe scoffed playfully, looking at her like she was out of her mind. "And vanilla is the most basic."

"Oh, please. It's better than having toothpaste," she teased, poking him in the ribs. "You know they call those who like mint, psychopaths."

Rafe was about to argue when something caught his attention—a guy behind the counter, eyes locked on Imani, lingering a little too long. Instantly, his protective instincts flared, his body going tense as he scanned the guy's face.

Without a second thought, his lips brushed the soft skin of her neck as his hand moved to her waist. His breath warm against her skin, sending a shiver through her. At the same moment, he made eye contact with the guy, his gaze darkening with quiet menace. The guy flinched and quickly looked away, clearly startled.

Imani, still blissfully unaware of the tension, giggled at the sudden sensation of Rafe's lips against her neck. She squirmed playfully, leaning back into him. "Rafe," she laughed, "you're distracting me!"

But Rafe was unfazed, continuing to place soft, teasing kisses along her neck as his hands found her sides, fingers lightly grazing her skin and making her squirm more. "Just making sure no one else gets any ideas," he muttered with a grin, his eyes still flicking to the counter where the guy had quickly turned his attention elsewhere.

Imani chuckled, shifting her weight into him, feeling safe and completely adored in his embrace. "You're impossible," she said with a playful sigh.

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The night was quiet as Rafe and Imani walked hand in hand through the softly lit streets of the city. The gentle hum of the evening buzzed around them, but the world felt distant, almost like it was just the two of them, wrapped in the calm of the night. The streetlights flickered above them, casting a warm glow that seemed to highlight everything about the moment—she couldn't help but think about the night, and the way Rafe made her feel.

Finally, after a few minutes of walking, Imani broke the silence, her voice soft but filled with curiosity. "This is technically a date."

Rafe glanced at her. "If that's what you want to call it," he replied casually, as though it was no big deal.

Imani stopped in her tracks, her mouth falling open in disbelief. "Oh my God," she gasped, looking at him with wide eyes. "You took me out on a date? Our first date."

Rafe just shrugged, the corners of his lips tugging up in a nonchalant smile. "Guess so," he said, not exactly offering any further explanation.

Imani poked his chest, her lips quirking into a playful frown. "Why didn't you just say this was a date then?"

He gave her a quick, shrugging glance. "I'm not one for labeling things," he said, his tone light but firm, as if it was just the way he was.

Imani rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of fondness in the gesture. "Of course you're not," she muttered, crossing her arms over her chest as she fell back into step beside him.

Rafe noticed the small shift in her mood, and though he didn't show it immediately, he softened, his voice lowering with a sincerity that cut through his usual cocky demeanor. "Look, I'm not great with all this shit, never been on a date, don't see the point in labelling things, but I do know this." He paused, his fingers tightening around hers. "Tonight has been perfect. I don't care what you call it, I just wanted to be with you. You make everything better."

Imani felt the weight of the moment settle in, realising that what she had with Rafe wasn't normal—not in the way she'd expected or what others might consider typical. It wasn't about labels or following the book; it was messy, real, and uniquely theirs. They were both figuring it out as they went along, learning how to navigate through this relationship, balancing intensity with tenderness, and knowing that neither of them had all the answers. But in that uncertainty, there was something raw and honest, something she couldn't deny.

They were both stumbling through this together.

She looked at him, her eyes reflecting the same warmth she felt inside. "You make me happy," she said quietly, her voice soft but steady.

"Anything to see my favourite smile."

"It's still a date."

"Whatever you say, baby."

━━━━━━━━━━

They sat in the car, the engine quietly purring as they looked out over the ocean, the distant sound of the waves crashing against the shore filling the air.

Imani had her legs draped over Rafe's lap, her soft skin against his fingers as he absentmindedly caressed her legs, listening to the rhythm of her breathing. Every so often, she'd glance up at him, her eyes filled with curiosity as he spoke, but he noticed she wasn't entirely focused on him. She seemed lost in thought, her gaze drifting toward the vast ocean in front of them.

"What's the matter?" he asked, his voice soft but laced with a trace of concern.

Imani didn't immediately respond. Instead, she shifted, her eyes scanning the horizon before turning back to him with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Let's go for a swim," she said, the words playful yet spontaneous.

Rafe raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Right now?" he asked, a laugh lacing his voice, unsure if she was serious.

But before he could get another word in, Imani was already out of the car, slipping from his grasp as she ran toward the ocean, her dress fluttering behind her in the night breeze. Rafe's breath caught in his throat as he watched her, unable to look away. She stopped just at the water's edge, turning back to him with a playful grin. He cursed under his breath, eyes scanning her form as she stripped off her dress, leaving her in nothing but a lacy white bra and panties.

"Fuck me," he muttered, already out of the car and stripping off his own clothes in a blur of motion, leaving himself in his grey boxer just as he started stumbling toward her, heart pounding in his chest.

By the time he caught up to her, she was already stepping into the water, laughing as the cold waves lapped at her feet. "The water's freezing!" she squealed, backing up quickly. "This was a terrible idea!"

Rafe grinned, his heart racing, unable to resist. He reached out, grabbing her by the waist and lifting her effortlessly into his arms, causing her to laugh even harder. "Not so fast," he teased, his grin wide. Before she could protest, he carried her further into the ocean, the cool waves crashing against them as he tossed her into the water.

"Rafe!" Imani gasped, her body sinking into the chilly depths of the ocean before quickly resurfacing, spluttering and playfully shoving him underwater.

"You wanted to swim," he chuckled.

The salty water rushed over them, but the chill didn't matter now; their laughter filled the air, both of them floating together, face to face in the darkness of the ocean.

For a moment, everything felt suspended in time. Rafe found himself looking at her, his chest tight as emotions he didn't quite understand flooded over him. He watched her, the way the moonlight glimmered on her skin, how her hair floated around her in the water like some kind of ethereal halo. He wasn't sure what to make of it all—of the feelings stirring in him, of the depth of his connection with her. His heart thudded in his chest, his mind racing to process it all, but for the first time, he wasn't trying to fight it. He couldn't help but feel that, in this moment, everything he didn't understand was exactly where he needed to be.

━━━━━━━━━━

Imani stood at the edge of the shore, the cold night air wrapping around her like a blanket as she gazed at the view before her. The ocean stretched out endlessly, its dark waves rolling toward the beach.

It was late into the night. No one awake at this time. Just Imani and Rafe.

Her damp hair clung to her shoulders, and Rafe's t-shirt—that was oversized on her—was the only thing she wore now, its fabric slightly damp but comforting against her skin.

She pointed toward the distance, squinting into the horizon. "Hey, you can see my parents restaurant over there," she said, her voice light as she motioned toward the lights barely visible along the coastline.

But as she turned back to face him, she froze for a moment. Rafe was standing there, leaning against his truck, his eyes locked on her. He was smoking, the cigarette glowing faintly in the dim light, but it was the way he was staring at her—intensely, almost like she was the only thing in the world. It made her heart race, a flutter of something she couldn't quite name settling in her chest.

"What?" she asked, raising an eyebrow, her voice teasing but uncertain, as if she knew there was something in his gaze that she wasn't quite prepared for.

Rafe didn't answer immediately. He just watched her, a hint of something in his eyes that made her feel like he was seeing through her. Then, with that low, commanding voice that made her stomach flip, he said, "Come here, baby."

Imani crossed her arms, her lips curling into a playful smile. "Only if you throw that away," she said, nodding toward the cigarette hanging from his lips.

Without hesitation, Rafe flicked the cigarette to the ground and stomped it out, the sudden movement making her laugh softly. "Happy?"

She raised an eyebrow in amusement, pleased that he didn't hesitate to do as she asked. "Say please."

"Please, come here."

She walked toward him, her steps light as she approached his truck, and without a word, he reached out and lifted her effortlessly, setting her on the back of the truck. She settled there, sitting on the edge, her legs dangling over the side.

Rafe stepped closer, standing between her legs, his hands resting gently on her thighs as he leaned in, close enough that she could feel the heat from his body. His gaze softened, but there was still that intensity in his eyes—an unspoken connection, a pull between them that neither of them could deny.

Imani's breath caught in her throat, her heart hammering in her chest as she looked up at him, feeling small but safe in his presence.

"Hi," she whispered with a smile.

"Hey," his fingers brushed gently through her damp hair, pushing it back from her face as he tilted her chin up, his gaze locking onto hers with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine.

She felt her pulse quicken, the tension in the air between them undeniable, as if every moment was building to something more. Without a word, he leaned in, his lips capturing hers with an intensity that left no room for hesitation. The kiss was deep, raw, and full of passion, as though they were both drowning in it, pulling each other closer, unable to get enough.

Imani's body responded instinctively. Her hands slid around his neck, and she wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling herself closer, feeling the heat of his body against hers. Her lips moved with his, matching his hunger and desire, every inch of her focused on the feel of him.

Rafe's lips broke from hers, his breath ragged as he mumbled against her lips. "I want to do something with you."

Imani, her heart racing, too lost in the moment to fully process his words, couldn't tear her gaze from his lips as she asked, dazed, "What is it?"

Rafe trailed his lips down to her neck, his breath hot against her skin, sending waves of desire through her. The way he touched her, how he made her feel like she was the only thing that mattered in that moment—it was almost too much.

His voice, low and almost a whisper, sent a shiver through her as he murmured in her ear, "I want to make you feel good."

Imani's breath hitched, her body reacting to the weight of his words. Her heart pounded in her chest, and for a moment, everything went silent except for the sound of her own racing pulse. She looked into his eyes, seeing the unspoken question there, the silent plea for permission, and she knew what she wanted. Without a word, she nodded, her eyes locking with his, her trust in him clear.

(mature content ahead)

Rafe's eyes were still fixated on Imani's, but she could feel his fingers lightly dance on her thighs, trailing up until she felt him slip under her—his t-shirt—and his fingers teasing and pulling the strap of her panties. "Tell me," he began. "Have you ever touched yourself?"

Her breath hitched, a little nod. "But, I never—"

"You never finished," his voice was low, no hint of judgement but desire in his tone.

She blushed, confirming his statement and felt his fingers press against her covered pussy. "Because you need me, don't you? You need me to help you."

"Yes," she whispered. "Please," she begged, slowly applying pressure against his fingers as she rubbed herself against him.

"Fuck," he rasped, as he pulled her panties the side and pressed a finger to her slit "You're so fucking wet," a deep groan fell from his lips.

"Only for you," Imani's lips brushed against his lips.

"Damn right it is," Rafe gritted, and she gasped, when he stroked her folds and then his middle finger slipped inside of her, making her grasp his shoulders and his lips aggressively claimed hers.

Imani cried out with a moan, bucking her hips against his hold, another moan escaping her when Rafe's other hand gripped her hair, twisting it around his fist as his middle finger thrust in her, picking up in speed methodically, too in tune with her body's reaction until they were ruthless and merciless.

"More," she whispered.

A chuckle escaped his lips, as he yanked her hair back, his face hovering hers, eyes darkening with lust. "You can barely take one finger, how are you even going to take my dick."

"Rafe," Imani whined, bucking her hips against his hand more. "Please."

"Whatever my girl says, she'll get it," he muttered. His index finger was now ghosting ear her opening, hovering, flickering, lingering, but not inside of her.

"Rafe," Imani gritted out, her hand gripping the back of his neck.

"Shit, baby," Rafe laughed. "Someone's eager to get fucked."

Just when she thought the torment will never end, both his middle and index fingers harshly thrust inside her. At the same time. All the way to the knuckles. Imani threw her head back, rolling her eyes when she feels the cold metal of his ring on his index finger, hitting the spot, her toes curling in ecstasy.

"You want more, baby?"

"Yes."

He put in a third finger. Pleasure mixed with pain as she's stretched to her fullest.

"That's my good girl. Ride my fingers," Rafe groaned, as he watched Imani's lips part, eyes rolling to the back as she met his thrust with her hips.

She whimpered and trembled under his touch. "Rafe—I feel—I think i'm—" she gasped between words as he thrusted each time.

"Look at me," Rafe demanded.

Imani's eyes met his. "Come."

She let out a loud moan, the orgasm flooding in her as she came all over his fingers.

"Fuck," Rafe whispered in awe as he watched Imani come undone.

Grabbing Imani's jaw, he made her watch him as he then slid his fingers into his mouth, "So messy, baby."

Her lips parted, watching with lust and desire, as he sucked and licked his fingers.

Too fucked out, Rafe let Imani slump against him, grabbing the back of her neck as he rubbed it in soothing circles. "Breathe," he whispered against her ear.

Imani followed as he said, feeling his touch everywhere on her, mind still hazy as she allowed him to.

"You good, baby?"

"Mhm," she hummed with a laugh.

"You did amazing," he praised her, watching as she blushed shyly at his compliment. "So proud of you."

"I—" Imani began, but that was interrupted, when Rafe got down on his knees, as he pried her legs open with his face now directly facing her pussy. "What— what are you doing now?"

"I need to taste you with my tongue," he rushed out with a low rasp, as he hastily took her panties completely off her. "I need this fucking pussy."

Imani's back arched, almost off the truck as Rafe grabbed each thigh with his strong palms and immediately dived in, licking from the opening to her clit. Bucking her hips more toward him, she placed her hand on top of his head to get some semblance of balance, feeling every pleasure, every bite, every lick, every control from him as he devoured her.

Rafe thrusted his tongue, fucking her with brutal strokes, a mix of pleasure and pain erupting from Imani's lips as he controlled her. Teasing her as he bit and nibbled on her clit between teasing her folds with his fingers too.

"I knew you'd be my favourite meal," he murmured, as she made eye contact with him, watching as he dove right back in.

"Faster," she whispered, meeting the thrust of his tongue with her hips, hand gripping his head tightly.

"Patience, baby. Let me take my time," he chuckled.

"Shut up," she gritted out, shoving his head back between her legs and let out a low moan when he obliged her command.

And then the orgasm flooded through her once again, as she rolled her eyes, head thrown back, legs tightening around his shoulders whilst letting out a loud moan of pleasure.

Rafe stood back up, his hand had grabbing Imani's throat as her dazed eyes watched his every movement, smirking and licking her wetness from his lips. "I knew you'd taste good. Just like I always dreamt you would."

"Kiss me," she whispered lazily.

His hand tightened on her throat as his lips crashing against hers in a kiss that was hard, passionate, and brutal. It wasn't gentle, wasn't restrained—there was no room for hesitation, only raw need. His lips moved against hers with an intensity that stole her breath, every kiss demanding, consuming.

His breath was ragged against her lips when he finally pulled back, just for a moment, his forehead resting against hers. But the fire in his eyes, the way his gaze roamed her face like she was the only thing that mattered, told her he wasn't done—not even close. And neither was she.

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author's note:

- this was my first ever smut scene i written so please don't judge. i did my best to keep it to the standard that's not cringey 😭

- make sure to vote and comment on every chapter please