• •
  Alexis Huntley had moved to the Outer Banks with her insanely wealthy family a year ago. Technically, she was a Kook—her family had the money, the house, the reputation, and every reason to stay on Figure Eight.

But Alexis never really cared about any of that.

After a year on the island, she had become much closer with the Pogues. Kiara, Sarah, JJ, and John B had become the people she actually wanted to spend time with. Alexis could move between both worlds, but everyone knew where she felt more comfortable.

There was just one problem: Rafe Cameron.

From almost the moment Alexis arrived, Rafe had taken a secret liking to her. What started as glances across parties and quiet conversations turned into something neither of them could really stay away from. They had been on and off for the entire year, constantly pulled back toward each other despite knowing how complicated they were.

Rafe was completely in love with Alexis. He could be charming, protective, and unexpectedly gentle with her—but his feelings could also become intense and possessive, especially when he thought someone was getting too close to her.

And tonight, Alexis wanted absolutely nothing to do with him.

Tonight

The entire OBX is at the beach for one of the biggest parties of the summer. Bonfires line the shore, music is blasting, boats are anchored offshore, and practically everyone from both sides of the island has shown up.

Alexis arrives with Kie and Sarah, dressed for the party and determined to have a good night.

The second they arrive, Sarah notices Rafe across the beach.

He’s already seen Alexis.

Rafe is surrounded by people, but his attention immediately shifts toward her. He watches her laughing with Kie and Sarah, his expression changing the longer he looks at her.

Alexis notices him too.

She immediately looks away.

Tonight isn’t going to be one of their nights.

She doesn’t want another argument. She doesn’t want another complicated conversation. And she definitely doesn’t want to fall back into whatever strange relationship they always seem to find themselves in.

So she stays with the Pogues, dancing, laughing, and pretending she doesn’t notice Rafe repeatedly looking in her direction.

But Rafe isn’t used to Alexis ignoring him.

Eventually, he starts making his way through the crowd.*