corilash

[corilash]

She hadn't even had a chance to reply to Sarah before JJ was taking his shot. Yeah..something happened and no one wanted to tell her. Tears pricked her eyes, but she awallowes them back before trying to force out a smile. She reached her hand out to Sarah, grabbing the shot. She would have made a passive aggressive toast, but she didnt have the energy. She wanted to get so drunk she forgot tonight even happened. So, she downed her shot and then had Sarah pour her another before downing it too. That was 4 shots now and she was definitely feeling it. She was a lightweight and hadn't drank since last summer.

What was really pissing her off was the fact everyone was now actively avoiding her. Her eyes moved to JJ who was fidgeting like a crack head. As if his pants were literally on fire. It almost made her laugh.

Mari heard her name from somewhere behind her and she turned to see Topper and a few of his friends. Was Topper a dick? Sure. Was he a dick to her? Not really. He actually had been trying to get her to stop seeing JJ pretty much all summer. The petty side of her wanted to play this out. "Hey, Top!" She said, giving a small smile as she looked him over. He was cute. Not JJ cute, but...'stop. Stop thinking about JJ.' She thought to herself.

Topper was clearly drunk and she wasn't sure she had the mental capacity to deal with drunk frat boys tonight. Or maybe its exactly what she needed.

"You look great..how ya been? Back for the summer?" He questioned, sauntered forward and stopping just in front of her with a devilish smile.

"Here for the summer and for..well..ever I guess?" She gave a laugh. "We moved here, today actually." She added slightly excited. Despite everything happening, outer banks was beautiful.

Toppers eyes glanced at the group behind her, they were less than happy to see him, clearly. He moved to wrap an arm around her shoulder, pulling her into him gently. She didn't pull away. "Well, guess we are going to have to show you how to have some real fun." He jeered, looking down at her. Her eyes peered up into his and she couldn't help but smile slightly before it felt forced. Her eyes turned to the group and everyone seemed ready to pounce if she needed them to, which was surprising. Maybe it wasn't for her, but their own need for revenge over something. She sighed, swaying slightly as the alcohol hit her, but Topper kept her securely on her feet. "Maybe, but golf isn't fun, so count me out of that." She smirked, pushing her elbow into his rib slightly in a playful manner.

Her eyes turned to JJ, his face full of an emotion she didnt quite understand. Everyone was just watching them and she felt like she was doing something illegal now. As if it were wrong to talk to them at all. Like, pick a side Mari, was rolling off their tongues.

After the girls has taken their shots and waited for the boys to take theirs, Mari's eyes watched them as they jabbed and slapped at each other, even talking some before they approached and took their shots. JJ downed his instantly and she wondered if something was wrong, but she could just be reading too far into it.

Mari had poured the girls new shots just as they said pogues for life, and they all downed another one together. Her throat and stomach burned, and she was desperate for a chaser. Her eyes moved around the group and then back to JJ. "You good?" She questioned with a raised brow. His face was scrunched in what she assumed was thought.

Everything around them was full swing, and the new game of flip cup was causing quite the ruckus as they pushed and grabbed each other while trying to win. It was surprisingly entertaining to watch. It brought a smile to her face. "Well..catch me up! What's happened since last year?" Mari asked happily as she looked around at everyone. She wanted to get caught up on what had happened since. Who they did and didn't like, everything.

She wanted so badly to just wrap her hand around JJ's arm and be close to him, but something said that wasn't a good idea. They were just friends after all, she didn't need to be hanging off of him like a toddler.

Pope and John B looked over at JJ right after she asked what had happened and her brow raised in question, though I don't think she was supposed to notice. Then Kiara and Sarah looked at each other and clearly Mari was missing something. "Did I do something?" She asked, wide eyed.

[corilash]

There was a flit of a smile that tugged at the corner of his lip for the tiniest moment before it disappeared. Then, his usual self returned..'have someone else clean it up' as if this wasn't her job. He looked somewhere behind her and then she heard feet moving towards them and the mess. Her coworker, Alex, rushing forward to start cleaning things up.

Her eyes looked to Rafe, pinning him with something that resembled annoyance. How entitled. "Alex, I'll help you once I get this hand sorted out, okay?" She told the boy, giving him a soft smile. The mess on the floor honestly wasn't that bad. A few broken glasses, and the tables just needed reset. He would probably have it done before she even got back.

She was in her own head when she felt ruffling at the front of her apron. Looking down, she saw Rafe stuffing the cash into it. Her eyes pushed back up to his as he awkwardly grabbed his neck. She was clearly confused. Why did he seem nervous?

This much cash was a godsend, really. She had been behind on payments for her car and the rent. She didn't feel bad about taking the money, especially not from those idiots. She inhaled and exhaled out a sigh. Where did they go from here? She didn't want to say thank you again. Maybe dinner? A drink? But that could look like asking him out. She definitely wasn't doing that.. She straightened herself as she prepared to ask. "Would you like to maybe grab dinner or a drink? In thanks? It's on Josh." She laughed slightly, gesturing to the money in her apron.

Was she absolutely nuts for asking? Probably. But she wanted to figure out why he had helped her and right now wasn't the time to ask. Everyone was coming down from their high. Some of the patrons had started eating and talking again so the room wasn't so deathly quiet.

Her eyes roamed his face, trying to get a read on him and his emotions. Like she could crack his code and understand him better.

It was like birds before a storm. Everything went silent and Olivia looked around. At first she thought it was Josh and what he was doing, but when she saw Rafe heading their way she knew.

'Shit.' She thought to herself and she tried to get free once more. His fingers on her hip were starting to hurt. Her eyes widened slightly when Rafe approached and spoke. He was defending her? Why? Her brow furrowed as she looked between the men. And when the dumbass asked Rafe what he was going to do, she held her breath without even realizing.

Josh had been distracted enough that he had let her go when he stood up to confront Rafe. "Unless you both want kicked out, I suggest taking a few steps back." Olivia said, moving to step between the two. Her eyes peered between the men who were now nearly face to face, though Josh was shorter.

"I'm sure Josh will keep his hands to himself, and we won't have any more problems. Yeah?" She said, looking towards Josh.

Josh gave a small laugh. "Some bitch isn't telling me what to do. I practically own this club, I'll do whatever I want." He stated. His remark could have been towards Olivia or Rafe, but it seemed geared towards Olivia.

She frowned but didn't look towards Rafe, he was already intimidating, and right now ge was downright scary. He was all calm, collected, and monotone. As if he wouldn't have a single emotion or regret when beating the shit out of this man.

Just as she was about to step back, Josh shoved Olivia back, making her trip over a chair, and then shoved at Rafe.

A bite of pain hit her as she tripped and fell, trying to catch herself only to be caught with a knife on the way down. One that cut her hand. She winced and sucked in a breath as she watched the scene unfold before her.

[corilash]

She furrowed her brows. It was pretty obvious something had happened none of them wanted to talk about. Everyone looked everywhere but at her when her eyes scanned the group, and she felt embarrassed. As if she were something they all wanted to point and laugh at.

JJ spoke but it sounded forced and when John B chimed in she knew something big had happened. Her mind tried to rack together anything. Everyone looking at each other, Sarah and Kie giving the silent girl talk they all did. Was JJ seeing someone? She wasn't about to be the other girl. John B's words hit home as he looked to JJ mentioning drama.

She was about to say something when Pope spoke up, welcoming her as a pogue. She couldn't help but smile a little. Then Kiara said something Mari couldn't quite understand but the eyeroll following mad either clear. She didn't like Mari. Why? She didn't know. They seemed to be friends last year.

Then it hit. No one talking about it. JJ being weird, Kiara giving her attitude, Sarah looking at Kie and trying to be friendly with Mari. But did she want to being shit up now? No. She wasn't one to cause a scene. So, she answered Pope's question instead. "Well. My parents got divorced. Dad had a whole secret family. 10/10 do not recommend." She gave a small laugh to lighten the load. "And we loved it here so, my mom moved us from the city. She's opening a bakery downtown." She added, a hint of pride on her voice.

Her eyes moved back to JJ, trying to convey she knew and they'd be talking later about why he was being so weird. She hoped her thoughts were wrong, but her gut said otherwise.

Sarah spoke next, "Oh shit. That sucks Mari, I'm sorry." She stated simply, bending to grab the tequila bottle. "Shots?" She gave a laugh and started filling everyone's small cup again.

After the girls has taken their shots and waited for the boys to take theirs, Mari's eyes watched them as they jabbed and slapped at each other, even talking some before they approached and took their shots. JJ downed his instantly and she wondered if something was wrong, but she could just be reading too far into it.

Mari had poured the girls new shots just as they said pogues for life, and they all downed another one together. Her throat and stomach burned, and she was desperate for a chaser. Her eyes moved around the group and then back to JJ. "You good?" She questioned with a raised brow. His face was scrunched in what she assumed was thought.

Everything around them was full swing, and the new game of flip cup was causing quite the ruckus as they pushed and grabbed each other while trying to win. It was surprisingly entertaining to watch. It brought a smile to her face. "Well..catch me up! What's happened since last year?" Mari asked happily as she looked around at everyone. She wanted to get caught up on what had happened since. Who they did and didn't like, everything.

She wanted so badly to just wrap her hand around JJ's arm and be close to him, but something said that wasn't a good idea. They were just friends after all, she didn't need to be hanging off of him like a toddler.

Pope and John B looked over at JJ right after she asked what had happened and her brow raised in question, though I don't think she was supposed to notice. Then Kiara and Sarah looked at each other and clearly Mari was missing something. "Did I do something?" She asked, wide eyed.

[corilash]

Everything seemed to shift when she fell. She felt Rafe's stare as she hit the ground, the knife slicing her flesh. The bite of the ground mixed with the slice on her hand made her adrenaline sore, and she almost felt numb. Then Rafe grabbed Josh, and she held her breath just as glasses fell from the table and shattered onto the floor.

Her eyes couldn't leave Rafe or the scene before here even though she wanted to look around the room. They had security, shouldn't they be here by now?

Rafe, the man everyone warned her about. How he was so dangerous and toxic, yet he was defending her? Why?

Josh had to be the biggest idiot she had ever met. The way he didn't back down, though his voice wavered. He had to know who Rafe was. Everyone knew who Rafe was around here. Then, after what felt like hours, see Rafe released Josh from his iron grip and shoved him back. He stumbled into the table, but caught himself and stood up straighter now.

'Take out your wallets.' Rafe had said and her brows furrowed. Was he robbing these guys? He didn't need the money. Maybe it was just the thrill, who knew.

She realized she had never gotten up from the ground, but as the men began removing cash from their wallets, Olivia stood, using a napkin to stop the bleeding in her hand and trying to avoid shards of glass on the ground. Her eyes moved to every guy in the group, placing cash on the table. Her eyes widened at the amount. They just carried around her whole house payment for fun.

Rafe's words made her eyes dart to him. He was making them tip her. What the hell was happening? She was dreaming, right? This was all just a dream..she must have fallen asleep in her car on break or something. Once all the cash was placed the men scurried off when dismissed. She couldn't help but get goosebumps from the tone in his voice. Serious..demanding..calm. the calmness was the scariest part. Then his eyes turned to her and she was frozen. Her eyes locked on his in surprise. She tried to talk but her throat was dry. Though, after a moment she cleared her throat as her adrenaline high wore off and the pain in her hand returned. She looked down to the bloodied napkin and then back up to Rafe, then down the the money, and back to Rafe again.

What did you even say to that whole scenario. Thanks just sounded...not enough. Her mouth opened and closed a few times as she fought for words. "Um..thank you, I think." She finally said, a small nervous laugh escaping her lips. "I should probably deal with this" she raised her hand, "and then this." She gestured to the mess of tables and glass on the floor.

It was like birds before a storm. Everything went silent and Olivia looked around. At first she thought it was Josh and what he was doing, but when she saw Rafe heading their way she knew.

'Shit.' She thought to herself and she tried to get free once more. His fingers on her hip were starting to hurt. Her eyes widened slightly when Rafe approached and spoke. He was defending her? Why? Her brow furrowed as she looked between the men. And when the dumbass asked Rafe what he was going to do, she held her breath without even realizing.

Josh had been distracted enough that he had let her go when he stood up to confront Rafe. "Unless you both want kicked out, I suggest taking a few steps back." Olivia said, moving to step between the two. Her eyes peered between the men who were now nearly face to face, though Josh was shorter.

"I'm sure Josh will keep his hands to himself, and we won't have any more problems. Yeah?" She said, looking towards Josh.

Josh gave a small laugh. "Some bitch isn't telling me what to do. I practically own this club, I'll do whatever I want." He stated. His remark could have been towards Olivia or Rafe, but it seemed geared towards Olivia.

She frowned but didn't look towards Rafe, he was already intimidating, and right now ge was downright scary. He was all calm, collected, and monotone. As if he wouldn't have a single emotion or regret when beating the shit out of this man.

Just as she was about to step back, Josh shoved Olivia back, making her trip over a chair, and then shoved at Rafe.

A bite of pain hit her as she tripped and fell, trying to catch herself only to be caught with a knife on the way down. One that cut her hand. She winced and sucked in a breath as she watched the scene unfold before her.

[corilash]

After the girls has taken their shots and waited for the boys to take theirs, Mari's eyes watched them as they jabbed and slapped at each other, even talking some before they approached and took their shots. JJ downed his instantly and she wondered if something was wrong, but she could just be reading too far into it.

Mari had poured the girls new shots just as they said pogues for life, and they all downed another one together. Her throat and stomach burned, and she was desperate for a chaser. Her eyes moved around the group and then back to JJ. "You good?" She questioned with a raised brow. His face was scrunched in what she assumed was thought.

Everything around them was full swing, and the new game of flip cup was causing quite the ruckus as they pushed and grabbed each other while trying to win. It was surprisingly entertaining to watch. It brought a smile to her face. "Well..catch me up! What's happened since last year?" Mari asked happily as she looked around at everyone. She wanted to get caught up on what had happened since. Who they did and didn't like, everything.

She wanted so badly to just wrap her hand around JJ's arm and be close to him, but something said that wasn't a good idea. They were just friends after all, she didn't need to be hanging off of him like a toddler.

Pope and John B looked over at JJ right after she asked what had happened and her brow raised in question, though I don't think she was supposed to notice. Then Kiara and Sarah looked at each other and clearly Mari was missing something. "Did I do something?" She asked, wide eyed.

For a game of flip cup it was intense. The chanting and cheering. It brought everyone together.

Mari looked over to see JJ focusing like his life depended on this game and it made her laugh which messed up her flip. The yelling was distracting and had her heart racing, but to her dismay, JJ flipped his cup first and everyone erupted into cheers. She was swallowed by a small crowd who pushed forward to celebrate with the other guys. Mari simply rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help but smile. "Yeah yeah yeah!" She called out to JJ, sticking her tongue out.

Sarah and Kie came to sulk with her. "Sorry babes, in not on the professional flip cup level yet." She laughed and so did the pair beside her. "I think we need shots." Mari called out. Sarah nodded in agreement. "To the cooler!" She yelled and dragged Mari and Kiara along with her. When they approached, Sarah opened the cooler. Inside were tiny plastic cups, disposable shot glasses it seemed. "Oh, tequila!" Mari added, grabbing the bottle. "Me too!" Sarah added and Kiara held her cup out for some too. Mari filled all three of their shot glasses, "to being hot" Sarah said, giggling. We all laughed and then downed our shots, opting for another round.

After the shots were finished she looked around the scene. It was more lovely now and her head was buzzing from the game and drinks she had already had. "JJ, John B, Popeeeee." She called. She, Sarah, and Kiara were holding full shot glasses for the three of them. "You're turn!" Mari called, eyeing JJ with a smile.

[corilash]

It was like birds before a storm. Everything went silent and Olivia looked around. At first she thought it was Josh and what he was doing, but when she saw Rafe heading their way she knew.

'Shit.' She thought to herself and she tried to get free once more. His fingers on her hip were starting to hurt. Her eyes widened slightly when Rafe approached and spoke. He was defending her? Why? Her brow furrowed as she looked between the men. And when the dumbass asked Rafe what he was going to do, she held her breath without even realizing.

Josh had been distracted enough that he had let her go when he stood up to confront Rafe. "Unless you both want kicked out, I suggest taking a few steps back." Olivia said, moving to step between the two. Her eyes peered between the men who were now nearly face to face, though Josh was shorter.

"I'm sure Josh will keep his hands to himself, and we won't have any more problems. Yeah?" She said, looking towards Josh.

Josh gave a small laugh. "Some bitch isn't telling me what to do. I practically own this club, I'll do whatever I want." He stated. His remark could have been towards Olivia or Rafe, but it seemed geared towards Olivia.

She frowned but didn't look towards Rafe, he was already intimidating, and right now ge was downright scary. He was all calm, collected, and monotone. As if he wouldn't have a single emotion or regret when beating the shit out of this man.

Just as she was about to step back, Josh shoved Olivia back, making her trip over a chair, and then shoved at Rafe.

A bite of pain hit her as she tripped and fell, trying to catch herself only to be caught with a knife on the way down. One that cut her hand. She winced and sucked in a breath as she watched the scene unfold before her.

Olivia had made her way towards the bar, moving to punch in their order, and then turned to see Jules at the bar with none other than Rafe Cameron. She wasnt in the mood for any more douches today, but naybe she would get luck and he was too drunk to care.

"Hey Jules, the lovely gentlemen at table 4 need a round of whiskey, please. 'Top shelf, best of the best,' they said." Olivia reiterated. She wanted to roll her eyes. Ut since Rafe was at the bar she wouldn't be unprofessional. Jules gave a small knowing laugh before she began to pour from the bottle into four whiskey glasses. Once they were poured she placed them on a tray and Olivia gathered it into her arms. "Thanks babes." She smiled, her eyes only lingering on Rafe for a moment.

He was definitely attractive, but she knew all too well the stories of Rafe Cameron. He was dangerous, selfish, and trouble she didn't need in her already disheveled life. So, she headed back to the table, bending slightly to set the drinks in front of each one. "There's ya go boys. Enjoy." She smiled sweetly before trying to walk away, only to be grabbed around the wrist. "Boys? This is a table of men. Let me prove that to you sweetheart." Josh said in a sickening tone. Her nose scrunched as he pulled her onto his lap, holding her so she couldn't move away. His lips moved to her ear, whispering. "Ill show you what a real man's like." He said to her and she physically recoiled. "Yea, no thanks." She stated, moving to struggle free. "Men know how to keep their hands to themselves. Boys? You. Don't." She pointed, but his hands didn't relent.

[corilash]

Olivia had made her way towards the bar, moving to punch in their order, and then turned to see Jules at the bar with none other than Rafe Cameron. She wasnt in the mood for any more douches today, but naybe she would get luck and he was too drunk to care.

"Hey Jules, the lovely gentlemen at table 4 need a round of whiskey, please. 'Top shelf, best of the best,' they said." Olivia reiterated. She wanted to roll her eyes. Ut since Rafe was at the bar she wouldn't be unprofessional. Jules gave a small knowing laugh before she began to pour from the bottle into four whiskey glasses. Once they were poured she placed them on a tray and Olivia gathered it into her arms. "Thanks babes." She smiled, her eyes only lingering on Rafe for a moment.

He was definitely attractive, but she knew all too well the stories of Rafe Cameron. He was dangerous, selfish, and trouble she didn't need in her already disheveled life. So, she headed back to the table, bending slightly to set the drinks in front of each one. "There's ya go boys. Enjoy." She smiled sweetly before trying to walk away, only to be grabbed around the wrist. "Boys? This is a table of men. Let me prove that to you sweetheart." Josh said in a sickening tone. Her nose scrunched as he pulled her onto his lap, holding her so she couldn't move away. His lips moved to her ear, whispering. "Ill show you what a real man's like." He said to her and she physically recoiled. "Yea, no thanks." She stated, moving to struggle free. "Men know how to keep their hands to themselves. Boys? You. Don't." She pointed, but his hands didn't relent.

@rafexcvmeron [closed starter]

Thank God it was Saturday. Today was Olivia's last morning shift before she had two days off. Working at the prestigious Island Club during the summer wasn't for the weak. It was full of spoiled rich kids who's parents got them whatever they wanted.

Olivia wasn't a kook, nor was she a pogue. She was sort of a floater between the ranks and usually fell by the wayside. She didn't have the money to waste like the kooks, but the pogues usually thought she was like a kook. That's probably why she had been forced to make friends with those people.

Her shift was nearly over for the day, her last table being a small group of guys who were, not so quietly, hitting on her. If she hadn't wanted a tip, she would have told them all to go fuck themselves, but here she was smiling along. Every so often she had to fix her face because how she really felt tried to come though.

"There's a party tonight. You should get dressed up and come." One of the males said. His name was Josh and he came here a lot. She had worked here since last summer and by now she was remembering names and faces easily. Which meant others also knew her considering she nearly lived here with how often she worked. A kook country club was never not busy.

She didn't always waitress though, sometimes she was a bag girl for the golfers, other times she bussed tables. It was wherever they needed her, honestly. Today, though, she was waitressing, which was good because she needed the money. She desperately wanted to get away from this conversation. "Oh, I have plans tonight, but maybe next time!" She chatters with a fake smile. The group looks disappointed. "Trust me doll, we are more important than your plans." He states, sliding a $50 bill across the table. Presumably her tip and a bribe. She doesn't take it though. If it was a tip, she would get it off the table once they left. "As much as you might be right" she fake flirted back, nearly wanting to gag, "I can't cancel. I'm sorry boys." She winks. "Let me go get you another round of drinks." She says before moving to walk off and head for the bar to place their drink order.

[corilash]

For a game of flip cup it was intense. The chanting and cheering. It brought everyone together.

Mari looked over to see JJ focusing like his life depended on this game and it made her laugh which messed up her flip. The yelling was distracting and had her heart racing, but to her dismay, JJ flipped his cup first and everyone erupted into cheers. She was swallowed by a small crowd who pushed forward to celebrate with the other guys. Mari simply rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help but smile. "Yeah yeah yeah!" She called out to JJ, sticking her tongue out.

Sarah and Kie came to sulk with her. "Sorry babes, in not on the professional flip cup level yet." She laughed and so did the pair beside her. "I think we need shots." Mari called out. Sarah nodded in agreement. "To the cooler!" She yelled and dragged Mari and Kiara along with her. When they approached, Sarah opened the cooler. Inside were tiny plastic cups, disposable shot glasses it seemed. "Oh, tequila!" Mari added, grabbing the bottle. "Me too!" Sarah added and Kiara held her cup out for some too. Mari filled all three of their shot glasses, "to being hot" Sarah said, giggling. We all laughed and then downed our shots, opting for another round.

After the shots were finished she looked around the scene. It was more lovely now and her head was buzzing from the game and drinks she had already had. "JJ, John B, Popeeeee." She called. She, Sarah, and Kiara were holding full shot glasses for the three of them. "You're turn!" Mari called, eyeing JJ with a smile.

Her eyes met JJ's and she felt the familiar pull they had to each other, as if their minds and bodies were connected by a string.

Playing against JJ could be fun. The girls could definitely distract them and it was honestly their sole strategy. Sarah leaned forward on the table and smirked at John B. "Oh yeah? Easy hmm?" She questioned, her busy taking on a teasing position just to give John B a taste of what was to come during this game.

Mari watched as JJ slapped Pope and John B on the back. If she smiled any more, her jaw would be sore tomorrow. One cup for each person. Drink it, flip it, repeat. John B and Sarah started off the game, both downing their drinks around the same time before they began trying to flip them. The back and forth between them was intense to watch, but when Sarah bent over in front of John B and then flipped her cup, he was too distracted to flip his own cup. Sarah knew it and smirked just as she landed hers. She planted a soft kiss to John B's cheek before Kiara rushed forward to drink her own drink. She started flipping her cup just as John B landed his. Then Pope moved up, downing his cup and beginning to flip it. Kiara kept putting her hand over Pope's eyes as they playfully bantered back and forth, trying to keep the other from flipping their cup. Then, they both flipped their at the same time. Despite it being a competition, they cheered and hip bumped.

Everyone was laughing now and that's when Mari and JJ Stepped up to grab their drinks. She definitely wasn't as quick as JJ when it came to downing the drink so JJ had a head start in flipping his cup.

Her eyes couldn't help but wander to him every time she missed her flip. Watching the muscles in his arms flex with each flick of the cup. She was over here distracting herself. She 'accidentally' dropped her cup on the ground and bent over to pick it up, placing it back on the table before she began to flip it again. She couldn't hide the smirk on her face as she turned to see the aftermath on JJ's face.

[corilash]

Her eyes met JJ's and she felt the familiar pull they had to each other, as if their minds and bodies were connected by a string.

Playing against JJ could be fun. The girls could definitely distract them and it was honestly their sole strategy. Sarah leaned forward on the table and smirked at John B. "Oh yeah? Easy hmm?" She questioned, her busy taking on a teasing position just to give John B a taste of what was to come during this game.

Mari watched as JJ slapped Pope and John B on the back. If she smiled any more, her jaw would be sore tomorrow. One cup for each person. Drink it, flip it, repeat. John B and Sarah started off the game, both downing their drinks around the same time before they began trying to flip them. The back and forth between them was intense to watch, but when Sarah bent over in front of John B and then flipped her cup, he was too distracted to flip his own cup. Sarah knew it and smirked just as she landed hers. She planted a soft kiss to John B's cheek before Kiara rushed forward to drink her own drink. She started flipping her cup just as John B landed his. Then Pope moved up, downing his cup and beginning to flip it. Kiara kept putting her hand over Pope's eyes as they playfully bantered back and forth, trying to keep the other from flipping their cup. Then, they both flipped their at the same time. Despite it being a competition, they cheered and hip bumped.

Everyone was laughing now and that's when Mari and JJ Stepped up to grab their drinks. She definitely wasn't as quick as JJ when it came to downing the drink so JJ had a head start in flipping his cup.

Her eyes couldn't help but wander to him every time she missed her flip. Watching the muscles in his arms flex with each flick of the cup. She was over here distracting herself. She 'accidentally' dropped her cup on the ground and bent over to pick it up, placing it back on the table before she began to flip it again. She couldn't hide the smirk on her face as she turned to see the aftermath on JJ's face.

The tap to her arm made her smile. "I'm sure you'll keep me plenty distracted JJ Maybank." She winked as he cupped his hands to yell for Sarah. Her eyes followed where he looked and she gave a smile to the girl as she approached. "Hey Sarah." Mari beamed. Sarah seemed genuinely happy to see Mari, which was a relief. "Mari, right?" Sarah asked, "here for the summer?" She questioned as they walked towards the others.

Mari shook her head, "nope, I'm officially part of the OB." She smiled. Then she felt JJ take her hand and they all gathered around the table.

Once they approached, John B immediately started trash-talking. Both Mari and Sarah rolled their eyes with a smirk. "Penalties?" Mari asked, unsure of what that meant. Did they mean something other than just drinking extra? Like if you two handed a cup, spilt any beer, and other small rules like that. Knowing her kuck though, the pogues put extra weight onto their penalties.

She gave JJ a smile and nudges him back. It seemed it was JJ, Mari, and Sarah versus John B, Pope, and Kiara. Thankfully, it did t look like Kiara wanted to pounce at Mari anymore. She gladly took a long sip of her drink as a song she loved came on. Boots by Dasha. She, Sarah, and Kiara had danced to this song drunk so many times they'd made up their own line dance to it. Her eyes widened as she looked at the girls. All three of them beamed a smile, even Kiara. She could tell resist the pull of memory it brought. "Dance break!" Mari yelled, moving to grab Sarah's hand, while Sarah grabbed Kie.

In an empty space near the flip cup table the three girls stood in a line. Each one moved in sync with the dance they'd made up. Twisting, turning, clapping, and dipping at all the right spots. Singing the sound loudly as they did. People watched them, some tried to join in and copy their moves. Mari's blonde hair floated around as the sea winds and her movements made it fan about. She needed this. No drama, no worries, just her and her friends dancing and singing.

When the song ended some people clapped and Sarah pulled Mari and Kiara into a hug, which they both returned and gave a small laugh. "I think." Mari started, "it should be girls versus guys." She smirked, looking at the other two girls who nodded in agreement. But it might be an unfair advantage, since boys are dumb and all." Kiara smirked, which made them laugh.

Her eyes turned to JJ, happiness in them. She liked a little competition. "Losers shotgun a beer." Sarah called out as they moved to gather around the table.

"Did ya make any new rules since I've been gone? I don't wanna be surprised." She asked anyone at the table.

[corilash]

@rafexcvmeron [closed starter]

Thank God it was Saturday. Today was Olivia's last morning shift before she had two days off. Working at the prestigious Island Club during the summer wasn't for the weak. It was full of spoiled rich kids who's parents got them whatever they wanted.

Olivia wasn't a kook, nor was she a pogue. She was sort of a floater between the ranks and usually fell by the wayside. She didn't have the money to waste like the kooks, but the pogues usually thought she was like a kook. That's probably why she had been forced to make friends with those people.

Her shift was nearly over for the day, her last table being a small group of guys who were, not so quietly, hitting on her. If she hadn't wanted a tip, she would have told them all to go fuck themselves, but here she was smiling along. Every so often she had to fix her face because how she really felt tried to come though.

"There's a party tonight. You should get dressed up and come." One of the males said. His name was Josh and he came here a lot. She had worked here since last summer and by now she was remembering names and faces easily. Which meant others also knew her considering she nearly lived here with how often she worked. A kook country club was never not busy.

She didn't always waitress though, sometimes she was a bag girl for the golfers, other times she bussed tables. It was wherever they needed her, honestly. Today, though, she was waitressing, which was good because she needed the money. She desperately wanted to get away from this conversation. "Oh, I have plans tonight, but maybe next time!" She chatters with a fake smile. The group looks disappointed. "Trust me doll, we are more important than your plans." He states, sliding a $50 bill across the table. Presumably her tip and a bribe. She doesn't take it though. If it was a tip, she would get it off the table once they left. "As much as you might be right" she fake flirted back, nearly wanting to gag, "I can't cancel. I'm sorry boys." She winks. "Let me go get you another round of drinks." She says before moving to walk off and head for the bar to place their drink order.

[corilash]

The tap to her arm made her smile. "I'm sure you'll keep me plenty distracted JJ Maybank." She winked as he cupped his hands to yell for Sarah. Her eyes followed where he looked and she gave a smile to the girl as she approached. "Hey Sarah." Mari beamed. Sarah seemed genuinely happy to see Mari, which was a relief. "Mari, right?" Sarah asked, "here for the summer?" She questioned as they walked towards the others.

Mari shook her head, "nope, I'm officially part of the OB." She smiled. Then she felt JJ take her hand and they all gathered around the table.

Once they approached, John B immediately started trash-talking. Both Mari and Sarah rolled their eyes with a smirk. "Penalties?" Mari asked, unsure of what that meant. Did they mean something other than just drinking extra? Like if you two handed a cup, spilt any beer, and other small rules like that. Knowing her kuck though, the pogues put extra weight onto their penalties.

She gave JJ a smile and nudges him back. It seemed it was JJ, Mari, and Sarah versus John B, Pope, and Kiara. Thankfully, it did t look like Kiara wanted to pounce at Mari anymore. She gladly took a long sip of her drink as a song she loved came on. Boots by Dasha. She, Sarah, and Kiara had danced to this song drunk so many times they'd made up their own line dance to it. Her eyes widened as she looked at the girls. All three of them beamed a smile, even Kiara. She could tell resist the pull of memory it brought. "Dance break!" Mari yelled, moving to grab Sarah's hand, while Sarah grabbed Kie.

In an empty space near the flip cup table the three girls stood in a line. Each one moved in sync with the dance they'd made up. Twisting, turning, clapping, and dipping at all the right spots. Singing the sound loudly as they did. People watched them, some tried to join in and copy their moves. Mari's blonde hair floated around as the sea winds and her movements made it fan about. She needed this. No drama, no worries, just her and her friends dancing and singing.

When the song ended some people clapped and Sarah pulled Mari and Kiara into a hug, which they both returned and gave a small laugh. "I think." Mari started, "it should be girls versus guys." She smirked, looking at the other two girls who nodded in agreement. But it might be an unfair advantage, since boys are dumb and all." Kiara smirked, which made them laugh.

Her eyes turned to JJ, happiness in them. She liked a little competition. "Losers shotgun a beer." Sarah called out as they moved to gather around the table.

"Did ya make any new rules since I've been gone? I don't wanna be surprised." She asked anyone at the table.

Mari just furrowed her brow at Kiara's sparky response. It was pretty clear by the looks on everyone's face that they were not too thrilled by the attitude, but she would t act this way if there wasn't a reason. Clearly Mari had missed something. Maybe something happened while she was gone..

The savior John B is, he tossed in an activity to distract. She had played more games of flip cup than she could count last year. Taking a swig of her drink she smiled just as John B dragged Kiara away. Her eyes turned to JJ who asked if she wanted to play.

The way his hand grabbed the back of his neck meant he was uncomfortable, but it was also adorable."We can play. Or you and Pope can if me playing against her isn't a good idea right now?" She questioned, unsure.

"Did I do something wrong? Did something happen?" She asked JJ, her face slightly confused and concerned.

[corilash]

Mari just furrowed her brow at Kiara's sparky response. It was pretty clear by the looks on everyone's face that they were not too thrilled by the attitude, but she would t act this way if there wasn't a reason. Clearly Mari had missed something. Maybe something happened while she was gone..

The savior John B is, he tossed in an activity to distract. She had played more games of flip cup than she could count last year. Taking a swig of her drink she smiled just as John B dragged Kiara away. Her eyes turned to JJ who asked if she wanted to play.

The way his hand grabbed the back of his neck meant he was uncomfortable, but it was also adorable."We can play. Or you and Pope can if me playing against her isn't a good idea right now?" She questioned, unsure.

"Did I do something wrong? Did something happen?" She asked JJ, her face slightly confused and concerned.

Mari offered a warm smile to John B, he always seemed to welcome her. Scratch that, anyone, with some exceptions. She watched as he bent down, reaching inside a worn cooler, and producing two cold beers. She gladly took the one handed to her and watched as one was also tossed to JJ. "Beer is fine for now. Might need something stronger with the stuff you guys get into." She laughed.

Her eyes wandered the friend group, landing on Kiara, who had just finished rolling her eyes at Mari. What the hell had she done to warrant this? Her brow furrowed for only a moment before she let it go. Though, she spoke this time.

"So, Mari. Here for the summer again?" Kiara questioned with a raised brow.

Mari looked to her, shaking her head slightly. "Not this time. My mom and I actually just moved here. I'm now a permanent resident of the Banks." Mari said with a smile. She was more than happy to no longer be a fleeting member of the town. Kiara bobbed her head slightly, her lips pursed, "Guess it can't blame ya for wanting to come back." Kiara said simply.

Pope decided to step into the conversation now. "Well, if JJ plans to keep you around then I guess we get a new pogue!" He chatted, giving a small smile even though Kiara gave him quite the side eye for the comment.

Subconsciously, Mari had moved slightly closer to JJ. It was obvious Kie had an issue with the girl, but she didnt know why. She hadn't done anything to her last year. Kiara had actually hung around Mari a bit. She thought they were..friends might not be the right word. Maybe Mari just didn't pay enough attention.

Her eyes turned back to JJ and she couldn't help but to watch him a moment. God he was gorgeous. Honestly, the whole group was attractive, but something about his glowing tanned skin, pearly white smile, and those damn dimples had her fighting for air. She popped open her beer with a crack and then took a sip. Beer wasn't exactly her favorite drink, but she had grown to like it over the summer last year since it was a majority of what the group drank.

The music from a speaker around them was almost overwhelmed by voices, the waves, and now the large bonfire being lit across the party from the group. Her eyes scanned around and the only person she sort of knew was Rafe and Topper. Both of whom the pogues did NOT seem to tolerate well. "So, what's the plan for tonight?" She asked curiously.

[corilash]

Mari offered a warm smile to John B, he always seemed to welcome her. Scratch that, anyone, with some exceptions. She watched as he bent down, reaching inside a worn cooler, and producing two cold beers. She gladly took the one handed to her and watched as one was also tossed to JJ. "Beer is fine for now. Might need something stronger with the stuff you guys get into." She laughed.

Her eyes wandered the friend group, landing on Kiara, who had just finished rolling her eyes at Mari. What the hell had she done to warrant this? Her brow furrowed for only a moment before she let it go. Though, she spoke this time.

"So, Mari. Here for the summer again?" Kiara questioned with a raised brow.

Mari looked to her, shaking her head slightly. "Not this time. My mom and I actually just moved here. I'm now a permanent resident of the Banks." Mari said with a smile. She was more than happy to no longer be a fleeting member of the town. Kiara bobbed her head slightly, her lips pursed, "Guess it can't blame ya for wanting to come back." Kiara said simply.

Pope decided to step into the conversation now. "Well, if JJ plans to keep you around then I guess we get a new pogue!" He chatted, giving a small smile even though Kiara gave him quite the side eye for the comment.

Subconsciously, Mari had moved slightly closer to JJ. It was obvious Kie had an issue with the girl, but she didnt know why. She hadn't done anything to her last year. Kiara had actually hung around Mari a bit. She thought they were..friends might not be the right word. Maybe Mari just didn't pay enough attention.

Her eyes turned back to JJ and she couldn't help but to watch him a moment. God he was gorgeous. Honestly, the whole group was attractive, but something about his glowing tanned skin, pearly white smile, and those damn dimples had her fighting for air. She popped open her beer with a crack and then took a sip. Beer wasn't exactly her favorite drink, but she had grown to like it over the summer last year since it was a majority of what the group drank.

The music from a speaker around them was almost overwhelmed by voices, the waves, and now the large bonfire being lit across the party from the group. Her eyes scanned around and the only person she sort of knew was Rafe and Topper. Both of whom the pogues did NOT seem to tolerate well. "So, what's the plan for tonight?" She asked curiously.

The feeling of their hands linked sent sparks through her she. She felt like their hands belonged together. He pulled her through the crowd as the pair searched for his friends. She could tell when he found them because he was moving quicker, his hand on her lower back to bring her towards them. They all seemed happy to see them, or at least JJ.

When he dropped her hand she felt an emptiness, missing the contact already. She watched as he and John B did the same handshake they always did before wrapping each other into somewhat of a hug. She gave them all a smile and a small wave. "Hottest bunch in OB." She laughed slightly, hoping what she had just said wasn't cringe.

Her eyes fell on each person in the group. John B seemed happy in general and happy to see both of us. Pope had a smile on his face and stood nearby watching the group interact. He offered a welcoming smile to Mari and she returned it. Kiara, she didn't exactly look MAD per say. She just had this look of indifference. Mostly when she looked at Mari.

Mari definitely noticed, but decided to keep it to herself. She wasn't one to start drama or make scenes. "I need a drink..too many people." Mari laughed softly.

[corilash]

The feeling of their hands linked sent sparks through her she. She felt like their hands belonged together. He pulled her through the crowd as the pair searched for his friends. She could tell when he found them because he was moving quicker, his hand on her lower back to bring her towards them. They all seemed happy to see them, or at least JJ.

When he dropped her hand she felt an emptiness, missing the contact already. She watched as he and John B did the same handshake they always did before wrapping each other into somewhat of a hug. She gave them all a smile and a small wave. "Hottest bunch in OB." She laughed slightly, hoping what she had just said wasn't cringe.

Her eyes fell on each person in the group. John B seemed happy in general and happy to see both of us. Pope had a smile on his face and stood nearby watching the group interact. He offered a welcoming smile to Mari and she returned it. Kiara, she didn't exactly look MAD per say. She just had this look of indifference. Mostly when she looked at Mari.

Mari definitely noticed, but decided to keep it to herself. She wasn't one to start drama or make scenes. "I need a drink..too many people." Mari laughed softly.

She hadn't even been given a chance to respond before he revved the bike and sped off. Instinctively she crushed tighter to him so she wouldn't fall off or sway. He had taught her how to be a backpack last year and she mostly remembered the rules. Every turn, curve, or bump made JJ's arms and chest move and the feel of those muscles under her hands was glorious. She was almost sad the ride would end.

It was obvious he was trying to take things easy for her sake, and she tried her best to keep her dress down. She probably should have worn some spandex or something under, but oh well. Soon, the boneyard came into view and she couldn't help but smile as the bike drifted into the sandy path. Once they stopped her eyes watched JJ get off the bike, the view was...beautiful.

That small grin he gave her was godly and it just wasn't fair honestly. She looked aorund to see the people. It was actually pretty crowded already, but she didnt mind. She moved to grab JJ's hand to get off of the bike, making sure her dress didn't fly up or reveal anything as she swung her leg over and her feet touched the sand. She gave an exaggerated curtsey, "Thank you squire. Such a fine festivity indeed." She chimed back in a fake accent before laughing.

She wanted to cling onto his arm like she had last summer. Always touching each other like they couldn't get enough. "Are your friends here?" She questioned, looking around. They didn't seem to be where she could see but they might have had a spot they usually met or something.

Her eyes roamed over his face, his hair, skin, lips. She couldn't get enough and she totally forgot just what had happened after she left. As if she wasn't going to give him another chance anyways.

[corilash]

She hadn't even been given a chance to respond before he revved the bike and sped off. Instinctively she crushed tighter to him so she wouldn't fall off or sway. He had taught her how to be a backpack last year and she mostly remembered the rules. Every turn, curve, or bump made JJ's arms and chest move and the feel of those muscles under her hands was glorious. She was almost sad the ride would end.

It was obvious he was trying to take things easy for her sake, and she tried her best to keep her dress down. She probably should have worn some spandex or something under, but oh well. Soon, the boneyard came into view and she couldn't help but smile as the bike drifted into the sandy path. Once they stopped her eyes watched JJ get off the bike, the view was...beautiful.

That small grin he gave her was godly and it just wasn't fair honestly. She looked aorund to see the people. It was actually pretty crowded already, but she didnt mind. She moved to grab JJ's hand to get off of the bike, making sure her dress didn't fly up or reveal anything as she swung her leg over and her feet touched the sand. She gave an exaggerated curtsey, "Thank you squire. Such a fine festivity indeed." She chimed back in a fake accent before laughing.

She wanted to cling onto his arm like she had last summer. Always touching each other like they couldn't get enough. "Are your friends here?" She questioned, looking around. They didn't seem to be where she could see but they might have had a spot they usually met or something.

Her eyes roamed over his face, his hair, skin, lips. She couldn't get enough and she totally forgot just what had happened after she left. As if she wasn't going to give him another chance anyways.

She wasn't exactly fully aware of all things island related. She hadn't been too deeply looped into the drama, but she knew kooks were the rich kids, and tourons were..well..her.

"Was that a compliment JJ Maybank?" She smiled as she watched him get onto the bike. The way his muscles rippled with the movement and holding up the bike sent butterflies through her stomach. His comment about the baked goods made her laugh. "Guess i am. Maybe your friends will actually like me after they try em." She smirked before moving to take his hand and swing around to get onto the bike.

Once she was settled on the back, her dress as tucked in as it could be, she wrapped her hands around his middle. A slowly but subtly as possible, her hands slid up the outside of his shirt until her hands splayed against his chest. She held on a little tighter than she probably needed to, but she just wanted to feel him under her hands again. Her body was pressed towards his back as she prepared for him to take off.

He mentioned keeping her dress down and then flashing the island and she rolled her eyes, her hand smacking at his chest lightly. "No free shows, I'll keep my underwear to myself thank you." She said just before the pair set off.

Her mind flitted to how his chest felt under her hands. How she wished there wasn't a shirt there at all. She imagined snaking her hands under his shirt. Feeling every hard ridge as her fingers slid across his stomach, his chest, up his neck. The thought of it made her squirm in her seat a little.

As she rested against his back, she inhaled. He smelled like smoke, sea salt, and whatever body wash he used. It was a scent that was his, and she could identify it from a mile away. She hadn't realized just how much she memorized and missed how he felt against her.

[corilash]

She wasn't exactly fully aware of all things island related. She hadn't been too deeply looped into the drama, but she knew kooks were the rich kids, and tourons were..well..her.

"Was that a compliment JJ Maybank?" She smiled as she watched him get onto the bike. The way his muscles rippled with the movement and holding up the bike sent butterflies through her stomach. His comment about the baked goods made her laugh. "Guess i am. Maybe your friends will actually like me after they try em." She smirked before moving to take his hand and swing around to get onto the bike.

Once she was settled on the back, her dress as tucked in as it could be, she wrapped her hands around his middle. A slowly but subtly as possible, her hands slid up the outside of his shirt until her hands splayed against his chest. She held on a little tighter than she probably needed to, but she just wanted to feel him under her hands again. Her body was pressed towards his back as she prepared for him to take off.

He mentioned keeping her dress down and then flashing the island and she rolled her eyes, her hand smacking at his chest lightly. "No free shows, I'll keep my underwear to myself thank you." She said just before the pair set off.

Her mind flitted to how his chest felt under her hands. How she wished there wasn't a shirt there at all. She imagined snaking her hands under his shirt. Feeling every hard ridge as her fingers slid across his stomach, his chest, up his neck. The thought of it made her squirm in her seat a little.

As she rested against his back, she inhaled. He smelled like smoke, sea salt, and whatever body wash he used. It was a scent that was his, and she could identify it from a mile away. She hadn't realized just how much she memorized and missed how he felt against her.

The name JJ rang a bell with her mother and she nodded. "Ah the friends from the summer. Yes, she talked about all of you, when I actually got to see her." She gave a small laugh. "Okay, Mr. Maybank. She's all yours." And she mother stepped aside, planting a soft kiss to her daughters head and giving her a small hug. "Keys where we talked about whenever you come home. Be safe, call me if you need anything." She offered, and removed herself from the situation.

Mari was waiting with baited breath watching the interaction. If she had anyone else's number she would have sent the photo she took, but forgot she stepped forward, making JJ step back so she could close the door behind her. "I'm sorry..i was about to answer and she stepped in." She apologized. It was probably weird to meet her mom. He hadn't even met her after their almost inseparable time last year.

"You look nice." She smiled softly as the pair stood on her front porch. And by nice, she meant so insanely hot she almost threw her dignity out the window right then and there. He had that island boy charm. The warm skin, bright smile, dimples, eyes to get lost in. Her eyes couldn't help but subtly roam across his chest and arms and back up to his face. Images of them at the light house last year popped into her mind. Their windblown hair as they snuch to the top. The light illuminating their hungry eyes. It was a night she would never forget.

Snapping back to reality, she looked towards the road and saw his bike she scrunched her nose. She was in a dress, which would probably float up as they rode. Fuck it. She'd figure it out.

A moment later the door opened again and it was her mother. She had a small box of cookies packaged up and a jacket for Mari. "You'll get chilly, take this. And-" she hands the box to JJ and the jacket to Mari, "i baked these fresh today. A little treat for my daughters new friends." She smiled, giving her daughter a wink before closing the door again. Mari's face was flushed in embarrassment at the fact her mother still wanted to make her bring a jacket. She essentially about to carry it around all night so she moved to toss it onto the chair. "Oh my god..I'm-" she didn't even finish her apology. "Anyways. The cookies are amazing though." She added, pointing to the box in his hands.

[corilash]

The name JJ rang a bell with her mother and she nodded. "Ah the friends from the summer. Yes, she talked about all of you, when I actually got to see her." She gave a small laugh. "Okay, Mr. Maybank. She's all yours." And she mother stepped aside, planting a soft kiss to her daughters head and giving her a small hug. "Keys where we talked about whenever you come home. Be safe, call me if you need anything." She offered, and removed herself from the situation.

Mari was waiting with baited breath watching the interaction. If she had anyone else's number she would have sent the photo she took, but forgot she stepped forward, making JJ step back so she could close the door behind her. "I'm sorry..i was about to answer and she stepped in." She apologized. It was probably weird to meet her mom. He hadn't even met her after their almost inseparable time last year.

"You look nice." She smiled softly as the pair stood on her front porch. And by nice, she meant so insanely hot she almost threw her dignity out the window right then and there. He had that island boy charm. The warm skin, bright smile, dimples, eyes to get lost in. Her eyes couldn't help but subtly roam across his chest and arms and back up to his face. Images of them at the light house last year popped into her mind. Their windblown hair as they snuch to the top. The light illuminating their hungry eyes. It was a night she would never forget.

Snapping back to reality, she looked towards the road and saw his bike she scrunched her nose. She was in a dress, which would probably float up as they rode. Fuck it. She'd figure it out.

A moment later the door opened again and it was her mother. She had a small box of cookies packaged up and a jacket for Mari. "You'll get chilly, take this. And-" she hands the box to JJ and the jacket to Mari, "i baked these fresh today. A little treat for my daughters new friends." She smiled, giving her daughter a wink before closing the door again. Mari's face was flushed in embarrassment at the fact her mother still wanted to make her bring a jacket. She essentially about to carry it around all night so she moved to toss it onto the chair. "Oh my god..I'm-" she didn't even finish her apology. "Anyways. The cookies are amazing though." She added, pointing to the box in his hands.

Of course, the text she got was just some scam text about her package going missing. She rolled her eyes.

From the distance she could hear a bike approaching. She wasn't sure if it was JJ but she had ridden on his bike a lot last summer and the sound was spot on. Deep down she knew it was him. She wondered if he would text her he was outside, but instead he knocked on the door. It made her heart hammer and her mom popped up from around the corner to answer it before Mari could. But she was just steps behind her mom when she pulled it open.

Her mom had long brown hair which was claw clipped behind her head. She wore a pink apron which had some chocolate batter stuck to the front. Her skin was warm and slightly wrinkled with age, though she wasn't old. More like her mid 40s. She gave a smile that nearly matched Mari's to JJ.

"Hello there. Can I help you?" She asked.

"He's here for me mom!" Mari interjected, trying to move past her mother only to be stopped with a hand.

"Well, then he should introduce himself. What if you get kidnapped? I need to know who he is don't i?" Her mother, Deandra, pointed. Her eyes moved back to JJ who looked nervous as all he'll. "My name is Deandra, I am Mari's mother. So, what's your name young man and how old are you?" She questioned.

Mari sighed. Her mother did this every time she met someone Mari hing out with, especially boys. So, she stood with her arms crossed and waited. Her eyes darting to JJ with apology in them. Though she did pick up her phone to snap a photo of JJ facing her mom. The look on his face was priceless.