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Opening Montage

Day One

Sunrise - Mase

(Song:) Stay a While - The Cactus Channel

Sarah was standing on the beach, treading through the water, turning to look at Topper, as he was rolling up his sleeping bag. She was awkward and felt guilty because of kissing Topper, cheating on John B in the process, but Topper looked thrilled.

Sarah: (voice over) "Why do people do the things they do? I never thought it was that complicated. You do what seems right in the moment. When I first met Topper..."

⚓️

Flashback 1

Day - Kook Academy - Outside

Sarah, as the Kook Princess, stood with her Kook friends, seeing Topper walking along the school grounds.

Topper saw Sarah, smiling, waving at her.

Sarah: (voice over) "I just thought he was the perfect guy. Polite, sweet, from a good family."

⚓️

Flashback 2

Day - Docks

Isa, John B, Kaylee and JJ were hanging out, smiling and laughing, happy and carefree, smoking joints and drinking until they were buzzed and having a blast.

Kaylee threw her arm around Isa and spun them around, making Isa squeal from surprise but happiness, both of them bursting into a fit of giggles.

John B and JJ burst into laughter at this, all of them happy.

Sarah and Lia were down the dock, looking down the dock when they heard the laughter.

Lia smiled, shaking her head, looking away.

Meanwhile, Sarah was staring at John B. John B noticed Sarah looking and returned the gaze. Sarah smiled, looking away slyly.

Sarah: (voice over) "He was everything John B wasn't. But the heart wants what it wants."

⚓️

Now

Day One

Sunrise - Mase

Sarah still stood on the beach, in the waves, looking into the distance.

Sarah: (voice over) "And now, after everything that's happened, it just doesn't seem so simple."

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Paris, France

Laurent Estate - Living Room

Cian and Genevieve were sitting together their estate, watching the broadcasts about the Madrid flooding caused by Leviathan - a mere presentation. They were pleased, completely unbothered by the amount of people who were killed and injured in the flooding or that it was a presentation of what would come when they released the full power of what Leviathan could do when they flooded Kildare Island to kill Kaylee and everyone she loved for revenge.

"I'm impressed," Cian admitted. "Our portfolios went up."

"Well, we wanted proof that it would work," Genevieve pointed out. "Leviathan delivered. Just think, Cian. This is only a quarter of the damage that they'll inflict after the payment's made. And then the Outer Banks will be washed away, with Kaylee Carrera and everything and everyone she holds dear, drowned under the weight of her sins."

Cian smirked slightly, pleased. "And I sure hope that they see this little demonstration. I can practically taste their fear already. Especially hers."

Cian poured them both a drink.

Genevieve walked closer. "We'll have our revenge soon. And Tod will be avenged."

Cian handed her one of the glasses. "Just as he should be."

Genevieve clinked her glass against Cian's. "To our son."

"Our son," Cian agreed.

The two drank deeply, smirks playing on their lips.

Genevieve chuckled. "Though we do know that those little Pogues have returned to Kildare Island. It's all over the news by now. And Kaylee's attached to them dearly. Even as a fugitive, she's never far from them, especially her sister Kiara."

"You think she's returned home," Cian finished.

"I know she has," Genevieve answered. "She wouldn't be stupid enough to stay in a place where she knows we would find her, but I'm sure with our resources, we would be able to track her down."

Cian knew where his wife was taking this. "And, I assume, hire someone to take out this girl so that we wouldn't have to spend a half billion in gold to pay Leviathan to flood an entire city to kill her and everyone she loves on that island?"

Genevieve shrugged. "It's a thought."

Cian's eyes narrowed, contemplating the implications of Genevieve's suggestion. "You mean to say we could circumvent Leviathan's chaos entirely? Remove Kaylee from the equation without collateral damage?"

Genevieve arched an eyebrow, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Exactly. If we can get to her before she rallies her friends and family, it changes everything. No more need for an extravagant payment; we handle it ourselves."

Cian nodded slowly, the wheels in his mind turning as he considered the possibilities. Kaylee had always been a thorn in his side, a beacon of resilience that had thwarted his plans time and again. Eliminating her was paramount. "And you think we can find someone skilled enough to do this?"

"Leave that to me," Genevieve replied, her tone dripping with confidence. "I have contacts - people who owe me favors and are more than willing to take care of loose ends for a price."

"Unless, of course, we've underestimated the threat and she already has more support than we've given her credit for," Cian mused.

Genevieve scoffed. "She's a delinquent thug with not even her parents to stand beside her. What support could she have besides Rafe Cameron and those Pogues?"

The cruel irony that they had no idea about Elyna, Gael and Esme was their downfall.

Cian raised his eyebrows. "That is true. The only reason why we needed Leviathan in the first place was because we didn't know where Kaylee was before. We needed them to find her and then kill her because she was stranded on some unknown island where we couldn't reach her."

"Exactly," Genevieve agreed. "But now we know exactly where she is. Back home where it would be so easy to have one of our own contacts kill her where she stands. And if it fails, then we'll continue with the payment to Leviathan and wipe out Kildare Island and profit from everything we can gain from it as we planned before."

They spoke of killing a teenage girl and wiping out an entire island as if they were speaking of the weather instead of mass murder of hundreds of lives.

Cian leaned back in his chair, a sinister smile creeping across his burned-scarred face. "It's almost poetic, isn't it? The very place they thought would offer refuge will become their tomb."

Genevieve's laughter was cold and smooth, sending a shiver down Cian's spine. "A fitting end for the little Pogues and their beloved Kaylee. She's made her choices, and now they'll all pay the price for her crossing us."

Cian raised his glass again, a glint of malicious intent in his eyes. "To new beginnings, then. And to our little kingdom of chaos."

"To our empire," Genevieve echoed, clinking her glass against his once more before downing the contents with a satisfied smirk.

Cian leaned back in his chair, a satisfied grin forming on his lips, making his face appear even more monstrous. "Then it's settled. We take care of Kaylee ourselves. I want to make an example out of her - show everyone that the Laurents don't take disrespect lightly."

Genevieve's eyes sparkled with mischief at the thought of orchestrating such a scheme. "And while we're at it, let's send a message to anyone else who dares to cross us. They'll think twice before standing in our way again."

Cian nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. "Let's prepare for this then."

Genevieve smiled wickedly. "What would you like? For her to be killed back home, or for her to be brought here to be your new torture toy?" She caressed Cian's scarred face. "After what she did to you and our son?"

Cian took a hold of Genevieve's hand, placing a kiss on her skin, holding her gaze with his own, a sinister look in his eyes. "She made this personal when she burned our son alive and she tried to do the same to me. I'll make this personal for her. No, I don't want some contact of ours to kill her. I want that contact to take her and bring her to me so I can punish her personally for what she's done to our family. She has no idea what torment I will put her through."

Genevieve's eyes gleamed with a sickening delight, her hand gripping Cian's tightly as they shared a chilling look. "Trust me, I know just the person for the job." She stood up and walked over to her desk, rifling through a drawer full of business cards. "Someone who owes us a favor and enjoys their work a little too much." She pulled out a card and handed it to Cian. "Someone who can handle this discreetly."

Cian studied the card with interest. A young, professional bounty hunter.

Cian smirked, impressed by the bravado in the man's slogan. "He better be as good as his reputation suggests."

Genevieve smiled. "I'm sure we'll both be happy with his work. If not, then we'll go ahead and pay Leviathan, kill Kaylee and all of Kildare, and still profit of what's left. It's a win-win situation, isn't it?"

"I guess," Cian answered. "Though I much prefer the scenario where we get to keep a half billion in gold and make Kaylee pay personally."

Genevieve smiled. "I thought you might. But I'm happy with either way."

Cian winked at Genevieve in response, smirking, turning around, walking away.

⚓️ Worlds Colliding (Outer Banks) ⚓️

Pogue Nest - Outside

By the time that Kaylee came back to the Pogue Nest the next morning to get some more of her stuff, it was to see that Mike had made good on his threat of taking the treehouse down piece by piece.

Kaylee's heart dropped as she stood at the edge of the woods, surveying the remnants of what had once been their beloved sanctuary. The treehouse, their childhood haven, now lay in disarray. Broken boards and shattered beams littered the ground like fallen soldiers, remnants of carefree laughter and whispered secrets now reduced to a haunting pile of wood.

Kaylee sprinted toward te wreckage, her heart racing with disbelief. She couldn't comprehend what she was seeing. Each step felt heavy under the weight of grief that threatened to consume her. The warm morning sun cast an eerie glow over the destruction, illuminating the splintered remains.

Despite her resolve to create a better home for her and the Pogues away from here, seeing her childhood home torn to pieces like this was absolutely devastating.

Kaylee gasped, putting a hand to her chest. "No... no."

Rafe had arrived moments after her, here to help like he had last night, eyes wide with shock as he took in the scene.

"Kaylee," Rafe murmured, stepping beside her as they both stared at the carnage. "I'm so sorry."

"Sorry?" Kaylee echoed, her voice trembling with rage and pain. "My father gets off on doing this to me on the day of my parents' anniversary party."

Rafe looked at Kaylee in shock. "They're still doing this and celebrating their anniversary like they're not putting their daughter through hell?"

Kaylee nodded, fighting back tears. "They wanted to make a point. That they could still control me even if I didn't want to obey their rules."

Rafe's jaw clenched in rage, protective instincts flaring. "That's bullshit."

Kaylee quickly wiped her eyes. "Can we just get the rest of my stuff and head to the cabin? We have to make sure that everything with the others is ready for the plane heist since it's coming up so fast. We can't let anything get in the way of finishing that. The sooner we finish that, the sooner that the Pogues can help Isa and John B save their dad."

Rafe frowned in confusion, though he could guess what happened to their father. "Singh?"

"Yeah," Kaylee answered.

Rafe nodded. "Yeah, let's get this done."

Kaylee and Rafe carefully climbed the ladders up the remains of the treehouse to get the remaining of Kaylee's belongings and the rest of Pogues' belongings as well, boxing them away and bagging them away. They worked efficiently and quickly, always on the alert, never knowing if the unsteady structure of the treehouse around them would fall out from beneath them after Mike had started to take it down piece by piece. They knew that they had to get out before it toppled down around them.

"How are you guys planning on getting Isa and John B's dad back?" Rafe asked curiously.

"I don't know," Kaylee admitted. "Elyna's working on a plan, but Singh took him down to South America, and none of us have a plane or something. And we all know there's a likely chance that we're gonna crash your jet in the plane heist."

Rafe shrugged. "Yeah, well, I can use the cross and gold to replace my losses."

"Lucky you," Kaylee replied. "Not the rest of us are so lucky."

Rafe sighed heavily. "You'll figure something out, Kaylee. You guys always do."

Kaylee looked at Rafe for a moment, nodding barely in a acknowledgement. "Let's just get out of here."

Once they were finished, Kaylee held the bags they packed, while Rafe held the box. Since they had their hands full, they of course could not climb down the ladders again, and were forced to use the stairs.

However, seeing how unsteady the stairs were, Rafe was able to put the box on the slide leading down from the second balcony and gave it a push down toward the ground, taking one of the bags from Kaylee just in case.

As Kaylee and Rafe carefully made their way down the rickety stairs, the wooden planks creaked ominously beneath their feet. The once-sturdy structure now swayed precariously with each step, a testament to the destruction wrought by Mike Carrera's vindictive actions.

Kaylee clutched the remaining bag tightly to her chest, her knuckles white with tension. Every muscle in her body was coiled, ready to react at a moment's notice. The warm morning breeze rustled through the leaves around them, carrying with it the bittersweet scent of childhood memories now tainted by betrayal.

Rafe walked a few steps ahead, testing each stair before allowing Kaylee to follow. His movements were cautious yet fluid, years of navigating treacherous situations evident in his careful descent.

They were halfway down when it happened. A loud crack split the air as one of the steps gave away beneath Kaylee's foot. Time seemed to slow as she felt herself falling. The world tilted sideways, and for a terrifying moment, Kaylee was sure she was going to plummet to the ground below.

But then strong arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her back against a solid chest. Rafe's quick reflexes had saved Kaylee from disaster. He held her tightly, his breath warm against her ear as they both teetered precariously on the edge of the broken stair, as Kaylee gripped the railing tightly.

Rafe's grip around Kaylee tightened as he steadied them both, the adrenaline surging through him.

Kaylee was angry that, because her father started to take down her home and the stairs were falling, she almost fell a high distance that could have seriously hurt her, yet shocked and grateful that Rafe caught her to keep her from harm.

Kaylee looked over her shoulder at Rafe, overwhelmed with conflicting emotions.

Rafe's lips brushed against her temple as he whispered softly. "I got you. Just hold on to me."

Kaylee's heart raced, not just from the fear of falling but from the warmth of Rafe's body against hers. The world around them blurred, and all she could focus on was his presence anchoring her, grounding her in a way that felt both terrifying and exhilarating.

"Rafe, I--" Kaylee started, but he interrupted her with a gentle nudge.

"Don't think about it," Rafe urged. "Just trust me."

With a swift motion, Rafe shifted his weight and began to move them both downward. Kaylee's instinct was to panic, but Rafe's calm determination quelled any fear that threatened to bubble up inside her. Every step was calculated, careful until they finally reached the bottom of the spiral staircase, stepping onto the solid ground of the earth.

The moment their feet touched solid ground, Kaylee let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. Relief washed over her, quickly followed by the fiery rush of adrenaline. She turned in Rafe's arms, meeting his gaze, and felt an electric charge between them that sent a shiver down her spine.

"You okay?" Rafe asked, his voice low and filled with concern.

Kaylee nodded but couldn't manage to speak, overwhelmed by the proximity of his body to hers and the way his warm breath danced along her cheek.

Rafe released her waist slowly, but the heat of his touch lingered. "You sure? Because that looked pretty close."

"I'm fine," Kaylee finally managed to say. "Thank you... for catching me."

"Always, firebird," Rafe replied earnestly, stepping back to let Kaylee have her space.

Kaylee sighed in relief.

Rafe walked over to the slide, picking up the box, turning to Kaylee. "You ready to go?"

Kaylee took one last look at the Pogue Nest, the twisted destruction it was now a knife in her heart compared to the home it used to be. She took a deep breath, nodding. "Yeah. Let's get the hell out of here."

Kaylee walked toward Rafe as he led her toward his truck at the edge of the treeline. They put the box and the bags in the back of the truck. Once they were done, Rafe helped Kaylee into the passenger seat of his truck and walked around to the driver's seat, getting in and driving the two away.

⚓️

On the Road - Rafe's Truck

(Song:) Honesty - Michele Wylen

As Rafe drove, the countryside unfolded before them - a tapestry of greens and browns, the familiar paths that had once been so full of joy now felt heavy with loss. The sounds of the tires crunching over gravel echoed in the cab, filling the silence that hung between them like a thick fog.

Kaylee stared out of the window, watching as her childhood memories flickered past. Each tree, each bend in the road seemed like a ghost haunting her. She struggled to push those thoughts away, focusing instead on the present and what lay ahead.

"You okay?" Rafe asked gently, his eyes flickering to her for a moment before returning to the road.

"Just... processing everything," Kaylee admitted, her voice barely a whisper. "It feels like I'm losing so much."

Rafe nodded, understanding etched into his features. "I get it. It's hard watching something you love get torn apart."

Kaylee glanced at him, surprised by how well he understood, yet she supposed he would understand after everything with the Camerons fell apart. "Yeah."

Rafe's grip tightened on the steering wheel as he navigated the familiar roads, his thoughts racing. "Sometimes we have to lose things to make space for something new."

"Yeah," Kaylee agreed. "Losing this Pogue Nest might be a chance for me and the Pogues to build something even better. That's what I wanted, anyway. We just have to have the chance to get there."

Rafe nodded barely. "As much as I still think your friends are a pain in the ass, and I do..." Kaylee chuckled. "All of you have a history of overcoming obstacles together. This is just another chapter in your story."

Kaylee was grateful for the words, a flicker of hope igniting amidst the chaos. "I just... I want to find a way to help the others. I don't want them to suffer because of my family's mess."

Rafe glanced over, a small smile playing on his lips. "You're already helping by being you. The Pogues are stronger with you in the mix."

Kaylee's heart swelled at the encouragement. She chuckled lightly, shaking her head in disbelief. "Sometimes I feel like a burden. With my family, I've always been one, and with the darkness getting stronger and starting this whole mess... putting everyone in danger..."

Rafe's expression hardened slightly, determination filling his gaze. "You are not a burden, Kaylee. You're a fighter. You've been through so much and still manage to care about everyone around you. That says a lot about who you are."

Kaylee looked down at her hands, feeling the warmth of his words. But doubt still loomed in her mind. "But what if this time I can't save them? What if the Laurents--"

"They're not invincible," Rafe interrupted firmly, his voice steady as he focused on the road ahead. "And neither are we. Together, we can hit back harder than they expect. You've already sparked something in all of us with everything that's happened. You're stronger than you think, firebird."

Kaylee glanced out the window again, watching the landscape blur past them while she mulled over Rafe's words. The resolute edge in his tone was enough to reignite a spark within her that wasn't truly ready to die down yet, and for that, she was grateful for.

Kaylee sighed. "My parents invited Kie to their anniversary party tonight. Not so much me, or Elyna, Uncle Gael and Esme. I guess they can't be bothered with the criminals or the Interpol agent of the family."

Rafe looked at Kaylee, frowning. "But you're not going to let that stop you from going."

Kaylee smirked, shaking her head. "Hell no. Especially not after this morning. I'm in the mood for some revenge."

Rafe smirked. "That's my firebird."

Kaylee chuckled. "Yeah, it's just a lot to deal with, though."

"You're still technically a fugitive," Rafe pointed out.

"Any cop that shows up will get a rude awakening and one hell of a humiliation," Kaylee replied. "Esme won't let them arrest me. Since I'm working with Interpol, they can't touch me."

"True," Rafe agreed. "I'd pay to see Shoupe show up just to have him humiliated like that."

"Plumb, too, after all that bitch has done," Kaylee agreed.

They both laughed lightly.

Rafe glanced at Kaylee while he continued to drive. "I'm also throwing a party later today, before your parents' party if you want to come by."

Kaylee glanced at Rafe. "I have to go on a mission with Isa, John B, JJ, Lia and Kie so that we can find a lead on Big John before the parties, so I don't know if I'll be able to make it."

"I get it," Rafe replied. "But if you can, we can play one of our games if you need a distraction before your parents' party, after what happened this morning and everything that happened last night."

Kaylee felt a rush of conflicting emotions at Rafe's invitation. The idea of one of their games was tempting - a chance to lose herself in the thrill of the chase, to feel that intoxicating mix of danger and excitement that only Rafe seemed to provide. She remembered the exhilaration of their previous encounters - the way her heart raced when he pursued her, the electric tension when he finally caught her, the momentary reprieve from the weight of her pain, responsibilities and fears.

For a moment, Kaylee felt a familiar tug of longing for the rush and distraction his games provided. The thought of losing herself in another chance, another moment of pure adrenaline, was temping beyond measure. Like a form of addiction - a way for her to release her darkness in a way that was safe; a way that no one got hurt. After the emotional rollercoaster of the past few days - the betrayal of her parents, the destruction of her childhood sanctuary, and the looming threat of the Laurents - the idea of escaping, even for a little while, was intoxicating, especially knowing that it would only get worse tonight.

Kaylee took a deep breath, tilting her head. "I might take you up on that."

Rafe smiled slightly. "I figured you'd might."

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Esme's Cabin

Once Kaylee and Rafe arrived to the cabin, they set the bags and the box in the living room with the other belongings.

Kie, Lia, Wheezie, Elyna, Gael and Esme were waiting for them.

"You guys good?" Kie asked.

"For now," Kaylee answered. "Where are we on this stuff?" Kaylee asked.

"Just about to talk about the PSID, which Wheezie and Elyna finished last night," Gael answered.

"Elyna and I built the PSID so we can make the A380 disappear from radar, but there's one small issue," Wheezie explained. She picked up the PSID, which looked oddly like an explosive. "It looks like a bomb."

The others looked somewhat amused.

Kie nodded in agreement. "Yeah."

Rafe tilted his head curiously. "Is that not a bomb?"

"Definitely looks like a bomb," Lia agreed.

Elyna nodded with a wince. "Yeah."

Lia was thinking. "Does it separate parts?"

"In theory," Elyna answered.

"So, could you hide those parts and then give each of us pieces?" Lia questioned. "Then we reassemble it on the plane."

The others shared an impressed look, loving the idea.

"Hmm," Wheezie hummed. "Possible."

Lia smiled.

Elyna winked teasingly at Wheezie. "And after all the effort we put in to put it together, we have to take it apart."

"At least we're not breaking up the set," Wheezie replied with a fond roll of her eyes.

Wheezie and Elyna grinned as they turned to disassemble the PSID.

Rafe raised his eyebrows as he watched Wheezie and Elyna, turning to Kaylee as he whispered. "It's like watching Lia and Kie fall for each other all over again."

"Yeah, well, you didn't see the epic trilogy for Isa, Kie and Lia," Kaylee replied. "That's the best part."

"We heard that," Lia retorted.

Kie gave Kaylee and Rafe a look. "Both of you shut up."

Kaylee smiled slightly.

Rafe smirked.

Esme and Gael chuckled.

Once Wheezie and Elyna were done, they had hidden each piece into separate devices and carriers to remain unsuspicious.

Wheezie handed a pink blow dryer to Esme. "For you, Esme."

"Thank you," Esme replied.

Wheezie handed a small cigar box to Gael. "For Gael."

"Thanks," Gael murmured, taking the box.

Elyna handed a camera to her firestarter cousin. "Kaylee."

"Love it," Kaylee replied.

Elyna smiled. "Kie, Lia, you'll stay back for the computers."

Lia nodded in agreement. "Whitaker gave us the access and the script we need. We'll be practicing it over the next few days to perfect it."

"We're on it," Kie agreed. "Done."

"Of course, Rafe is piloting his jet," Wheezie added. "I'll be on the plane for assembling the PSID. Kaylee will be our distraction when we need her to be."

"Esme will make sure to be ready for any threats while I crack the safe," Gael finished.

Esme nodded.

Rafe raised his eyebrows. "We just might be able to pull this thing off."

"Tomorrow," Kaylee agreed. "Let's not waste it."

Esme looked at Kaylee, Kie and Lia. "I know that you girls have to go with John B, Isa and JJ to go help them with Big John's disappearance. There's nothing you can do here for now, so go. Just be careful."

"We'll see you tonight for the anniversary party, if you're going," Gael agreed.

They all nodded in agreement.

"I'll find Sarah and tell her everything," Wheezie explained. "Since Elyna and I finished the stealth mods, the drone, the PSID, I don't have anything else I can do either. Don't worry about a thing."

"Okay," Lia agreed.

"Anything I can do?" Rafe asked.

"You can help Esme, Elyna and I put the stealth mods on your jet and spray paint them, which will only take an hour, maybe less," Gael answered.

Rafe nodded in agreement. "Let's do it."

Elyna looked at Kaylee, Kie and Lia. "If you need anything, call us. We'll be there to help you if you need help."

"You got it," Kaylee replied.

Elyna glanced at Wheezie, giving her a slight smile. "You, too."

Wheezie gave a slight smile in return. "Same."

⚓️

Middle of the Island Restaurant

(Song:) Whiskey and Moonshine - APM Music

Topper and Sarah were getting breakfast, sitting together at a table.

"All right, I'm starving," Topper remarked.

Sarah nodded. "Yeah, same."

Topper opened his menu. "Time to smother your hunger."

Sarah looked up with a slightly amused smile. "Who says that?"

Topper shook his head, embarrassed. "I'm never gonna say that again. I'm sorry."

Sarah hesitated. "I had a really good time yesterday. It was nice to have a day, a single day, without it being about..."

Topper nodded. "About trying to run from the cops and..."

Sarah laughed. "Yeah. All of that."

They both chuckled.

Sarah took a drink of her coffee, placing her cup down. "You know what? Thank you. I was in a really rough spot."

Topper nodded, taking Sarah's hand to hold. "I had a really great time with you. And, uh, yeah, Sarah, I've been thinking about you a lot. I'm sure you already know that. I just can't imagine everything you got going on with your dad, your family, and then the other people in your life."

Wheezie walked into the restaurant, looking around, her face falling when she saw Sarah and Topper sitting together at the table, turning her head away.

Sarah glanced over, seeing Wheezie, her eyes widening at seeing her sister here.

Topper was still talking to Sarah. "So I understand if you just wanna take a second to breathe."

Sarah lowered her head, hoping that her sister wouldn't see her, putting up her hand in an attempt to shield her face. "Shit."

"You okay?" Topper asked. Sarah gestured with her eyes across the restaurant. "What?"

"It's--it's Wheezie," Sarah answered.

"Wheezie?" Topper repeated, turning his head to follow her gaze. "Oh. Is that okay?"

Wheezie turned her head toward them.

Sarah dropped her hand, sitting up. "And she saw us."

Topper waved to Wheezie. "Yeah."

Wheezie ignored Topper entirely, nodding to Sarah for her to follow her out of the restaurant, not even pausing as she walked straight out of the building without a word.

Sarah watched her go, flustered before hurriedly standing and following her sister.

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Outside

Wheezie walked down the dock outside of the restaurant. She paused next to her bike, which was resting on its stand.

Sarah hurried to catch up to her sister. "Wheezie! Wheeze, wait. Topper and I just were getting breakfast."

Wheezie scoffed, shaking her head skeptically. "It's none of my business."

"That's it," Sarah insisted. "You should join if you want to."

Wheezie turned to face Sarah, giving her an incredulous look. "Why would I ever join Topper of all people for breakfast after everything he's done to Lia, our sister, and all of our friends? Why would you ever go back to him? To Kelce? After everything they did to make Lia's life a living hell after Robbie was killed, and everything they did to Isa, John B, Pope and Kaylee?"

Sarah opened her mouth to respond, but the words caught in her throat.

Up outside the restaurant, Topper walked up to the dock, waving. "Yo, Wheezie!"

Wheezie shot an unimpressed glare toward Topper. "What's up, Top?"

Topper started to make his way down the dock toward the two sisters.

Sarah looked down at her feet, guilt creeping in. "I... I don't know, okay? It just happened. I was looking for a place for you, me and Lia to stay last night like I promised after I left you guys at JJ's. Cleo was at Pope's. Isa and John B were off with their dad. Kie and Kaylee were dealing with their family. Topper found me and took me to Mase with a group of people."

Wheezie frowned. "Okay, so you bring him to the Middle of the Island Restaurant on a Saturday? Lia told me that was your move when you kissed someone and then felt guilty about it because it usually meant you wee cheating on one of your boyfriends. That's how we knew I'd find you here."

Sarah was stunned speechless for a moment, not sure how to respond to the true observation bout her past of cheating on all of her boyfriends, or that both of her sisters had the suspicion that she would do the same thing to John B.

Wheezie crossed her arms, frustration yet concern etched on her face. "You don't get it, do you? You can't just forget everything they've done because they throw you a shred of attention. Topper is toxic and manipulative, Sarah. And so is Kelce and all of their friends. You saw how they treated us."

"Maybe he's changed," Sarah said weakly, but even she could hear the uncertainty in her own voice.

Wheezie shook her head vehemently, scared and concerned for her sister. "No, Sarah. He hasn't changed. This is the same guy who tried to drown John B, strangled Pope and tried to kill Isa every time she defended them. Topper and Kelce are the same guys that tried to have Kaylee arrested for defending herself against Tod. They hurt all of our friends. Just because Topper says he cares about you now doesn't mean he truly does. He's just obsessed with you. And once he sees that you're not into him the way he's into you, I'm terrified of what he'll do to you. The same guy that forced you to jump off a rooftop with him when you didn't want to. The same guy that blamed you and got furious with you when you changed your mind about having sex with him. The same guy that shoved the guy you loved more than him off the Hawk's Nest in front of you. The same guy that called you a cheating whore and called Lia a crazy bitch and could have attacked you both in our home if Lia hadn't stood up to him first. What happens if there's nothing that stops him next time he gets angry at you?"

Sarah's heart raced as Wheezie's words cut through her. She tried to process the mounting guilt and dread that suffocated her, feeling the weight of her sister's concern like a stone in her chest.

Sarah bit her lip for a moment. "Wheezie, I--"

Wheezie's eyes softened momentarily before hardening again with determination. "You have to remember what he really is, Sarah. You can't let nostalgia cloud your judgment. Just because he acts like he's changed doesn't mean he has. You deserve better than someone who treats you like an object to possess."

From behind them, Topper approached with an air of confidence that felt dangerously misplaced, shooting a half smile toward Wheezie that made her tense. "Wheezie, what's up? Random?"

Taking a place by Sarah's side, Topper held out a fist, intending a fist bump, trying to ease the tension with a forced smile and charm.

Wheezie rolled her eyes, ignoring Topper's hand as if he had the plague. "Right, so random that I came to find my sister because I needed to talk to her about some serious shit regarding our family and friends last night. Look up the word 'random' in the dictionary, Topper, because this is the last thing that could be described as that."

Topper pulled his hand back, his smile faltering as he glanced between the two sisters. "Okay, what's going on?" He crossed his arms defensively. "You both look like you saw a ghost."

Wheezie scoffed. "We'd rather see ghosts than have to deal with you again."

"Come on, Wheezie," Topper said, trying to appeal to Sarah. "I just want to talk to Sarah. It's not like I'm here to cause trouble."

Sarah felt the weight of their shared history pressing down on her, reminding her of all the times Topper had crossed lines, pushing boundaries without a second thought. Yet, there was a small part of her that still craved his attention, the thrill of the chase that once seemed so intoxicating. But after everything Wheezie said, she realized that maybe there were things that she couldn't ignore.

Wheezie looked at Sarah, imploring. "I'm leaving, and it'd be great if you came with me so I can tell you about last night. Please."

Sarah turned to Topper. "You know what? I'm gonna go too."

"Wait, wait, what?" Topper asked. "Our food literally just came out."

"I know," Sarah said.

"How are you gonna smother your hunger?" Topper asked.

Wheezie rolled her eyes, tilting her head, grabbing onto a boat pole. "Seriously?"

Sarah chuckled nervously. "Topper, um... yeah, I'm leaving. I'm going with Wheezie. It sounds like a lot of things happened last night with the other guys that we need to talk about." Wheezie nodded expressively. "But thank you." Sarah cupped Topper's head as she kissed his cheek. "I'm gonna call you."

Wheezie shook her head, looking down, still agitated and hurt.

"All right," Topper agreed, walking away. "See you, Sarah."

Wheezie closed her eyes. "Sarah, what are you doing?"

Sarah shook her head. "I don't know."

Wheezie sniffed. "Can we just go?"

"Yeah, let's go," Sarah replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Sarah felt the weight of her sister's gaze piercing through her as they walked away from the dock, away from the restaurant and the lingering shadows of Topper and their past.

As they turned the corner, Wheezie remained silent, her frustration and concern palpable in the air between them. The distant sound of waves crashing against the shore filled the heavy silence, each crash echoing Sarah's inner turmoil.

"Are you really okay with this?" Wheezie finally asked, stopping to face Sarah. "Being around him again? After everything?"

Sarah glanced at her sister, her heart heavy with confusion. "I don't know, Wheeze. It's just... different now? Maybe he really has changed?"

Wheezie shook her head vigorously. "No, Sarah. You're just hoping he has because it feels easier than confronting what he did to us, to you. And maybe he's not trying to hurt us right now, but let's see how long that lasts."

Sarah sighed. "Okay. Just tell me about last night, and I'll talk to you about last night, too. Okay?"

Wheezie nodded. "Deal. Let's just do it far away from here."

Sarah nodded in agreement. "Deal."

Sarah grabbed her bike from nearby.

Wheezie and Sarah mounted their bikes, pushing off as they began to ride away.

⚓️

Esme's Cabin - Outside

Elyna, Rafe, Gael and Esme attached all of the stealth mods onto Rafe's jet, concealing the customized attributes. When the stealth mods were on, the four of them, in white paint suits, were spray painting the mods to appear as a normal white airplane to blend more easily in the sky.

Elyna was keeping tabs of the cameras on the stealth mods through her tablet. "Little more to the left, Dad. Just checking the LED screen now."

As Gael followed her instruction, Elyna made the image of Gael from the camera appear on the LED screen beneath the plane.

Esme was giving one last rundown of the plan that would come soon. "We need to intercept the gold before it gets to the Laurents so they can't pay the hackers. We get the pilot we wanted?"

"Yes," Gael answered. "With experience landing in Afghanistan."

Esme nodded. "That's good. He can handle the short, snowy runway in the Alps. Rafe, that's when you deploy the drone to Zurich and you follow us to Cortina."

Rafe nodded, still practicing the flight course on the simulation screens, getting better and better each time.

Gael was going over the finishing touches for the safecracking laser that would get them into the vault on the plane to steal the gold.

"Gael, need you to keep an eye on the clock," Esme reminded. "You got ten minutes once you start on that safe."

As Gael finished a practice round, Elyna gave him the time he finished in. "11:55!" She cheered him on. "So close!"

"When we land, Whitaker's men will be on the ground to offload the gold onto a train by the landing strip," Esme continued. "At the next station, Interpol will be waiting to receive our half billion in gold."

"Boo," Elyna said in a mock pout.

Esme and Gael smirked.

Gael finished another practice run with the laser.

Elyna showed him the time on her phone. "9:38."

Gael made a cheering gesture. "9:38!"

Elyna smiled, laughing and dancing in place, cheering her father on.

Esme cheered her daughter and husband on, smiling and laughing.

Rafe glanced over at them in amusement where he was still practicing the piloting on the simulation screens. When he got it perfectly done with arriving and detaching from the plane, he did a cheer of his own. "Yes!"

Once everything was done, the four of them stood back and looked at Rafe's disguised private jet.

"So how stealth is it?" Gael asked.

"To a radar, it will be like a small bird," Elyna answered.

"Practically undetectable," Esme agreed.

Gael glanced at Rafe, raising an eyebrow. "I don't think I want you to have that capability."

Rafe smirked slightly. "Too late."

The group chuckled.

"So you think you can fly it?" Elyna asked.

Rafe shrugged. "I guess we'll find out tomorrow."

Esme nodded in agreement. "You rest up until. This is the biggest lift of our lives."

⚓️

On the Road - Twinkie

John B was driving the van.

JJ was in the passenger seat.

Isa, Kie and Lia were sitting curled up together in the back of the Twinkie on one side, the three girlfriends taking comfort together from all of their trials recently from each other.

Kaylee sat across from them, smiling softly at the three lovers and how they seemed to come through their trauma together, stronger on the other side.

The group was working on any lead they had to get Big John back from Singh.

JJ looked from at Isa and John B. "Walk me through it again."

Isa was holding a map, showing the others, pointing to a location. "Okay, right there. That's where they're taking him. That's the site of the idol."

Kie stared at her. "You pointed to just South America, you understand that, right?"

"Yep," Isa answered.

"That's all you know?" Lia asked. "He's somewhere in South America?"

"That's why we're going to the professor's house," John B replied. "All right? Look, he was at the site."

JJ scrubbed his hands over his face, groaning. "Okay. So happy we have the map, then."

Isa sighed. "I know it's not ideal, but it's all we've got. Which is why we're going back to Sowell's house. Maybe there's something there we can use to pinpoint a location."

Kaylee looked up. "Wait, whoa. We're going to a house with a dead body in it? That--that's where we're going?"

John B hesitated. "Yeah."

Kie shook her head. "And if the cops show up, you know what that makes us look like?"

Isa and John B both hesitated before nodding, speaking together. "Yeah."

JJ, Kaylee, Kie and Lia exchanged a look.

Lia looked away. "Okay, just making sure."

"Can we make it quick though?" Kaylee asked. "Just in and out? Don't want to be branded with two murders on my record."

⚓️

Sowell's House - Outside

Isa, Kie, Lia, John B, Kaylee and JJ ran up to Sowell's house, hiding in the bushes outside as they snuck their way up to the house.

Once they got there, Kaylee picked up a rock and threw it through the back window to reach inside and unlock the door.

"All forms of subtlety has vanished from your vocabulary, huh?" Lia asked in amusement.

Kaylee smirked, shrugging slightly. "Like I ever had any before?"

Kie smirked, shaking her head. "You never had any."

Isa smiled slightly. "Nada."

John B and JJ chuckled barely.

⚓️

Inside

Kaylee opened the door, leading the way inside, followed by Isa, Kie, Lia, John B and JJ.

John B quickened his pace when he entered the dining room, tapping the table with one deliberate finger. "His body's gone. Sowell was right here."

"And Sowell was the..." JJ trailed off.

"The professor," John B finished.

Kaylee nodded, glancing around. "Right. No, I know what happened. Isa, John B, they've already been here."

JJ nodded. "They sent in the sweepers and now probably decontaminated this entire room. There's nothing left. We should get out."

"Maybe there's something," Kie whispered. "There has to be something."

Lia sighed. "Okay, what are we looking for then? Give me specifics."

"Anything to do with an archaeological dig," John B answered.

Kaylee scoffed. "Oh, thanks. That really narrows it down."

John B spluttered slightly. "I'm trying."

JJ started pacing, looking around. "Anything. All righty. Fricking anything." He handed them each some gloves he found on a shelf. "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Don't leave your fingerprints. This is a live crime scene, dudes." They all pulled their gloves on. "Yeah, you know, actually, I'm just gonna look in the kitchen. No one ever checks the fridge."

"Yeah, go for that, man," John B replied.

Kaylee looked at JJ, frowning.

Lia glanced at JJ, tilting her head.

JJ walked past her to the kitchen.

⚓️

Kitchen

Kaylee stood in the doorway, watching JJ pull some food out of the fridge. "You didn't tell them yet, did you?"

JJ kept his back to Kaylee nervously, shaking his head. "Too much going on."

Kaylee looked at him sadly. "But you're doing okay? I mean, with food and everything?"

Kaylee nodded to what JJ grabbed from the fridge to prove her point.

JJ looked down. "I wasn't. Not until Lia and Wheezie showed up and I offered them a place to stay, them and Sarah. They kinda kicked my ass into shape and got us breakfast this morning. Recklessly, I might add, but what did I expect after last night? So not as bad as before, but..."

Kaylee sighed, knowing things weren't good between them still, hating how distant JJ was and how he was pushing her further away. Yet, she understood why he was doing it, because she was doing the same thing. Distancing herself from him thinking she was protecting him the same way he thought he was protecting her.

⚓️

Living Room

Isa, John B, Kie and Lia were still looking around.

Isa sighed, tracing her now-gloved fingers along the small torn pictures on the wall. "We were right here. Dad, Sowell, the idol..." She closed her eyes to remember what had gone down. Her dad had been speaking frantically demanding answers, Sowell had refused, the dart, he had dropped. She remembered something that could be helpful, turning to John B. "Sowell dropped a picture, didn't he? When he dropped."

John B was thinking. "Yeah, yeah, yeah. A drawing of where the gnomon's supposed to be."

Isa looked around. "If I remember right, it will be..."

Isa knelt down next to a dresser, reaching underneath it, pulling the picture from underneath, giving a smug smile as she stood and turned to show it to John B, Kie and Lia.

Lia couldn't help a small smile in return. "Way to go, Nancy Drew." Isa smirked. Lia called into the kitchen. "Kaylee. JJ."

Kie looked toward the kitchen. "Kaylee! JJ!"

Kaylee walked into the room.

JJ stood in the doorway, eating chicken. "Hmm?"

Kie frowned. "What is it, snack time? What are we doing?"

Kaylee and Lia both raised their eyebrows at JJ.

JJ shook his head to signal not to tell Isa, John B and Kie yet. "You know what? I feel very judged right now."

Isa nodded, unbothered. "Sure. All right." She looked between Kaylee, JJ, Kie and Lia. "Are you guys okay?"

"I'm fine," Lia replied. "I took my medicine this morning. Too soon to tell if it works like it did on the ship."

"I'm good," Kie agreed.

"Fine," JJ replied. "All good. It's just... there's an entire bird in here that'll just go to waste, okay? I'm not gonna let that happen. It's not like I'm stealing it. No one else is gonna eat it. I was like, 'I'll take the nutrients that this beautiful bird gives me and fill the tank', all right?"

Kaylee looked at Isa and John B, frowning. "When's the last time you two ate anyway? You've been running on missions with your dad and can't imagine that he would think enough to stop for food, and you probably don't have any fresh food at the Chateau either after being stranded on an island for over a month. With all the missions you've been doing, there's no way in hell you had time or money to get food for the house."

Isa and John B didn't answer, since Kaylee was obviously right.

"Not hungry," John B replied, too focused on the mission.

"We'll eat when we find our dad," Isa agreed.

Kie, Lia, Kaylee and JJ exchanged a look of concern.

John B found an article of a photograph on the wall, picking it up. "Guys, hey."

"Find something?" Kaylee asked.

"Yeah," John B answered. Isa, Lia, Kie, Kaylee and JJ walked closer to see what it was. "'Local expedition team departs for South America.'"

"One of these guys is Sowell?" Lia asked.

Isa indicated Professor Sowell in the photo attached to the article. "Right there. He's..." She noticed something. "Holy shit."

"What?" Kie asked.

Isa looked at John B. "Neville."

Kaylee and JJ frowned. "What?"

"Neville," John B answered. "The last thing Sowell said before he died was 'Neville'."

Lia stared blankly at her friends. "Neville, meaning...?"

Isa pointed to the photo again. "Right there."

Kaylee frowned, tilting her head slightly to read the text over the unfamiliar face. "'Neville Persaud, expedition guide.' "

Isa and John B nodded vigorously.

JJ got excited, moving around in excitement with his mouth dropped.

Kaylee looked up with renewed hope for her friends to get their father back now that they found a lead.

"So Sowell said, 'five people on the expedition,' right?" Isa asked.

"Right," John B confirmed. "Three of those people died. Which leaves us with two."

John B held up two fingers.

JJ lowered one of John B's fingers so now he was holding up one. "Sowell." John B nodded with a hum. "And Neville."

Isa nodded.

Kie pointed to them. "He's the last one alive."

Isa folded the drawing she found, tucking it into her pocket.

John B stuffed the newspaper into his pocket.

"Yeah, I think Sowell was telling you guys to warn him," Lia told them.

'We need to find Neville," Kie told them.

Lia patted them each on the shoulders. "Come on."

Kaylee, JJ, Kie, Lia, Isa and John B quickly ran out of the house.

⚓️

Tannyhill Estate - Rafe's Room

Rafe was sitting down on the bed, opening a case of the melted gold cross pieces, shining them.

Ward walked into the room behind Rafe, standing in the doorway, knocking.

Rafe looked up in confusion, seeing Ward's reflection in the mirror in front of him, frowning in surprise, turning to face his father.

"Hey, bud," Ward said.

Rafe stood. "Dad." He walked closer. "What the hell are you doing here?"

"I could see you were in over your head, so I came back to help you," Ward stated.

Rafe was incredulous with disbelief, about to put his hands to his head before dropping them, walking closer. "You wanna help?"

Ward nodded. "Yeah."

Rafe stopped in front of Ward, holding a hand toward the door. "Leave. You can't be here."

"I know you stole the cross, Rafe," Ward told him. Rafe dropped his arm, looking unamused and annoyed. "Now, come on, Rafe." Rafe turned around, walking away. Ward walked further into the room. "You were tired of living in my shadow. And you felt like I overstepped."

Rafe turned to face Ward, hands on his hips, sarcastic. "By giving away something of mine. Why would I think that?"

"You were right," Ward told him. "I should've talked to you before I donated it. You deserve that."

Rafe nodded, looking down. "Yeah. You should have." He looked up, stepping closer. "You're right."

"That was my mistake," Ward said. Rafe licked his lips. "But here we are, and you have it, and we gotta be smart with it, okay?"

Rafe scratched his ear. "Yeah."

"This cross is special," Ward told him. "Okay?"

Rafe shook his head. "Listen, the deal is done."

"What deal?" Ward asked.

"It's done," Rafe repeated.

Ward frowned. "You had no time to get a deal done."

"Well, it is done, because I'm selling some of it today," Rafe replied.

Ward shook his head in confusion. "What do you mean, some of it?"

"I melted that shit down," Rafe answered.

Ward scoffed in disbelief. "You're joking. You didn't melt it down."

"No, no, I'm not joking," Rafe answered, turning to the case on his bed with the gold pieces. "Shit, I can... I'll show you now."

Ward stepped closer. "Rafe, no."

Rafe opened the case, showing Ward the gold inside. "I mean, listen, this is just a--"

"No, no," Ward repeated in disbelief.

Rafe picked up a piece, twirling it around in his hand. "Just a very tiny fraction of it, so..."

Rafe tapped his gold ring against the gold piece.

Ward looked horrified. "You melted it?"

Rafe put the gold piece back in the case, looking conflicted when he thought back to Kaylee explaining to him why it was such a big deal, yet he didn't want to give Ward the satisfaction of seeing a reaction. "Yeah, I melted the Cross of Santo Domingo. Yep, melted it."

"How could you do that, Rafe?" Ward asked.

"I'm trying to make money off this," Rafe answered.

"What, why?" Ward demanded.

"Because you can't trace spare parts, Dad," Rafe replied.

Ward started to freak out, raising his voice. "Spare parts? It--it's priceless! It's one of a kind!" He closed his eyes, trying to process. "Oh, my God." He turned to sit down on the chair in front of Rafe, yelling. "Look, even if you don't care about it at all, it's lost all its value. It's a relic. You can't melt down the cross!"

Rafe turned to face him. "I did." As Ward continued to try and yell, Rafe finally had enough, snapping, raising his voice in return. "Just stop, stop!" Ward instantly shut up, looking stunned by Rafe screaming back at him. "I'm talking now! All right? This isn't about you!"

Ward closed his eyes.

Rafe lowered his voice to normal volume, slowly making his way closer to Ward, leaning down to look him in the eyes. "I mean, I was... I was held hostage at Singh's, locked up, not knowing if I was gonna live or die, and I thought, 'if I get out, I'm not going to sit around and wait for a handout from you'. I was gonna take what's mine, okay?" He slammed a hand on the table between them. "Rightfully mine. I was not going to stay in your shadow. I was going to get free from you and your control, after what you did to me, and what you did to Lia, Sarah and Wheezie. Do you understand?"

Ward nodded. "Yes."

"You get it?" Rafe asked.

"Yeah," Ward answered.

"Good," Rafe replied, turning around, walking away toward the case on his bed, closing it.

Ward rubbed a hand over his face. "Okay. Okay, Rafe. What's done is done."

"Yeah, it is done," Rafe agreed.

Ward stood, leaning onto his cane for support. "Now we gotta move forward, okay? You gotta do the things I sent you here to do, all right? So we can go back to Guadeloupe, and we'll start again."

Rafe walked toward the door with the gold case. "Start again?"

Ward stood in Rafe's way. "We'll get a brand-new life."

"Listen, I wanna start again too," Rafe told him.

Ward nodded. "Good."

"Okay, but not in Guadeloupe," Rafe continued.

"What?" Ward asked.

Rafe shrugged, pulling a face. "Why the hell would I start over there?"

Ward frowned. "Because we can't stay here, son."

Rafe shook his head. "No. No, you can't stay here. I can." He shrugged. "I mean, I got a crew here. I--I got... I got my home." Ward closed his eyes, lowering his head. Rafe placed a hand on his shoulder. "Okay, Dad, what I'm saying is, I don't need you anymore." Ward looked dejected. "I'm good."

Rafe started to walk past him.

Ward grabbed him to stop him. "Rafe, Rafe, Rafe, Rafe, listen to me."

Being grabbed like that ignited the memories of every time Ward used to abuse Rafe, causing him to snap. Rafe pushed Ward off of him, slamming him into the wall, holding his arm against his chest to pin him there.

Ward raised his cane as if to strike Rafe, only for Rafe to catch the cane and twist it out of his grip, pushing it to the ground.

Rafe looked at Ward's face, amused by the anger he saw. He was relieved that for the first time in his life, he was the one with the power, and not his tyrant psychopath of a father. "What are you gonna do? You gonna hit me? With your cane?"

"Rafe," Ward tried.

"I'm gonna sell my gold," Rafe told him. "Okay? My gold. I'm gonna do whatever else I want, and there's actually nothing you can do about it, okay?" He let Ward go, picking up his dropped cane, handing it to him. "Go home, Dad."

Rafe walked out of the room, leaving Ward behind, who was reeling in shock.

⚓️

The Wreck - Outside

(Song:) My Old Man - Mac DeMarco

Once they had found a quiet place to talk, Wheezie had begun telling Sarah everything about last night.

About Barry taking over Robbie's house and turning it into a drug den. Lia's downward spiral and quest for revenge, making three Molotov cocktails and walking into a trap knowingly, uncaring about her own safety - cleverly drugging Barry with his own fentanyl by coating a knife with it and antagonizing him until he picked it up to threaten her with it until the drug took affect. Lia's attempted murder of Barry after everything he had down to her, Robbie, Kaylee, Sarah, Rafe and everyone else until Kaylee, JJ, Wheezie, Elyna, Kie and Rafe had managed to convince her to let Barry go and merely burn down Robbie's house with all of Barry's drugs and money in so he could no longer use the house as his drug haven and lose all of his merchandise and his cash load in one. All the while knowing that he would never go after Lia again after what she did to him.

Meanwhile, Isa and John B's dad Big John had been kidnapped by Singh's men, and Isa and John B had nearly been killed at the hands of those men, escaping narrowly with their lives, and reuniting with Kaylee, JJ, Wheezie, Elyna, Kie and Lia after burning down Robbie's house / Barry's drug haven where they would start to piece together a plan to save Big John.

All the while Sarah was hanging out with the Kooks and cheating on John B with Topper.

As Wheezie recounted the chaos of the previous night, Sarah felt a mixture of admiration and concern for her sister and their friends.

"I can't believe Lia actually did all that," Sarah said, her voice laced with disbelief.

Wheezie nodded, her expression serious. "It's not just that she did it - it's where she's at right now. She's fighting demons we can't even fully understand. I mean, drugging Barry? That's a level of darkness I didn't think she'd ever go to."

"But doing that to Barry... isn't that just as bad?" Sarah asked, the weight of the situation pressing heavily on her.

Wheezie sighed. "Maybe. But you have to remember what he did to her... and everyone else. It was a moment of survival for her. She's trying to reclaim control over a life that has been taken from her in so many ways. Still... it's scary."

Sarah mulled this over, guilt gnawing at her insides. "I can't believe I wasn't there. I should've been there with Lia, with you, with all of you. It feels like everything is falling apart."

Wheezie frowned, concern etching lines on her forehead. "It's not falling apart. It's changing. We're just trying to survive, and sometimes that means making hard choices. Lia's been through so much, and we need to be there for her. Isa and John B, too. Honestly, all of us have. We all need to be there for each other."

"I know," Sarah said softly, biting her lip. "And while all of you needed me, I was with Topper and Kelce. You were right, about everything they've done. I can't..."

"You're not to blame for everything they've done, Sarah," Wheezie told her in concern. "I just don't see why you'd hang out with them after everything they did especially to our sister."

Sarah shook her head, tears in her eyes. "I don't know. I just feel so lost right now. Everything felt like it was in the win with the Pogues because of everyone doing their own thing right now, and I was struggling to find something to hold onto. So I just... slipped back into old habits, I guess. That's not an excuse, but..."

Wheezie took Sarah's hand in hers comfortingly to show support despite her frustration, which relieved Sarah more than she could express.

"One way to make up for it is just being there for them when they get back," Wheezie pointed out.

Sarah nodded in agreement, looking at Wheezie nervously. "Do you hate me? For kissing Topper?"

Wheezie shook her head. "Hate's the wrong word."

Sarah sighed in relief.

"I hate that it happened," Wheezie admitted. "And I don't get it. At all."

"I don't either, to be honest," Sarah admitted.

Wheezie smiled slightly. "But I could never hate you."

Sarah gave Wheezie a small smile, wrapping her arms around her little sister, leaning her head against her shoulder. Wheezie leaned her head on Sarah's head.

"Do you think Lia's gonna hate me?" Sarah asked.

"Never," Wheezie answered. "Lia's gonna hate that it happened even more than I do, that's for sure." They both laughed knowingly. "But she could never hate you, Sarah."

They pulled away, sharing a look.

Sarah sighed heavily. "I just have to find a way to talk to her."

"She's coming tonight to Mike and Anna's anniversary's party as emotional support for Kie," Wheezie explained. "You can talk to her there."

Sarah nodded in relief. "Good."

Wheezie frowned. "So are you and John B done?"

Sarah shook her head instantly. "No. Well, I don't know. I don't want to be. Like, since the island, everything has felt so... abnormal, and it just felt nice to feel something normal again. And I... I'm a mess. I feel like such a mess."

Wheezie crossed her arms. "I think we're all a little messed up. But you have to tell him. But fair warning. After all this shit, he's so close to snapping. I mean, according to Lia and Kie, Isa and John B have both been trying to hold off breakdowns ever since their dad disappeared the first time. And a lot of shit's happened to them since them, and now all this?"

Sarah sighed heavily. "I know."

Wheezie nodded. "So don't be surprised if a cheating-betrayal on top of almost dying so much and his dad caring more about the treasure than his own kids and then being kidnapped and set up for execution is the thing that makes him snap."

Sarah pressed her lips together worriedly, knowing that Wheezie was right, feeling more guilty than ever, not knowing how she could fix this.

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Field

(Song:) Cruisin' - Hooveriii

The Twinkie drove up to the fields before coming to a stop, and John B, Isa, Kie, Lia, Kaylee and JJ got out of the van.

Lia looked at JJ. "Okay, now, so let me get this straight. So, because you know a guy with the same last name as Neville, you think they've gotta be related. That's your master plan?"

"Right," JJ confirmed as he speed-walked over to an open tent filled with several bustling men. "How many people do you know with the last name Persaud? I met a guy here last summer with my cousin 'cause we're doing the growing business. Last name Persaud. Or wait, was it Percett?"

Kie turned to JJ. "No, no, no. Okay, you think--"

JJ shook his head. "No, no, no."

"'Cause we're talking about our dad's life, and our lives if we're wrong," Isa pointed out.

"No, I know," JJ agreed. "I know Mr. Persaud. Trust me. It's cool."

"I hope you're right," Kaylee replied.

They walked up to the tent.

JJ waved to the first man they saw. "Hey, uh, Mr. P, right?"

Persaud laughed. "Hey!"

JJ looked to Kie, Lia, Isa, John B and Kaylee. "Yeah, I told you." He walked up to Persaud with a smile. "Yeah, yeah, yeah. What's going on, man?" They shook hands. "Yeah. Hey, so we're looking for... we're looking for Neville. Is he still here?"

Persaud waved a hand. "Nah, nah, nah, he's out there. Been holding up near Doe Creek."

"Doe Creek?" Kaylee repeated.

Persaud nodded. "In his houseboat. Way, way back."

JJ, Kaylee, John B, Kie, Lia and Isa exchanged a look.

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Doe Creek

Isa, Lia, Kie, Kaylee, John B and JJ walked together down towards the creek, wading into the water, and looking around.

"Why you ever doubt me?" JJ asked.

"The idea was a little far-fetched," John B replied. "That's all I'm saying."

"Plus, you got confused on his name," Isa pointed out.

JJ tilted his head in acknowledgement. "Right, well, but I was right, wasn't I?"

"We were lucky," Kie agreed.

"All right, so we're looking for a houseboat," Lia reminded them.

Kaylee pointed to something white and large behind the limbs of a nearby tree. "That looks like a houseboat."

"Well, you think he's there?" Lia asked quietly.

"I don't know," Kie muttered.

"Only one way to find out," JJ pointed out, before yelling out suddenly. "Neville!" Isa, Lia, Kie John B and Kaylee jumped, giving wide-eyed looks to JJ. "Hey!"

John B was quick to put a hand over JJ's mouth. "Stop it!"

JJ pushed his hand off. "Dude, what?"

"What are you talking about, what?" Isa asked. "He thinks people are trying to kill him. He's probably packing."

JJ realized they were right, huffing. "Ah, okay. It's a death trap."

"Not like we haven't had our fair share of death traps," Kaylee remarked.

Lia nodded. "Yeah, unfortunately, we don't have a choice. He's the only guy alive who knows where Big John is."

The teens swam through the murky brown water toward the back of the houseboat. When they made it over, they climbed up the short metal ladder one at a time.

"See anything?" Kie whispered, glancing at Lia.

Lia walked slowly into what appeared to be a kitchen, tapping a finger against the stovetop. "The stove's warm. He's still here."

"Maybe he split when he heard us coming," Kaylee suggested.

Suddenly, they heard a voice yell out. "Devils!"

Neville jumped out at them, swinging a machete at John B. John B ducked barely in time, but wasn't prepared for the fist that Neville sent into his stomach and chest, knocking the air out of him as John B fell to the ground.

Isa quickly pulled Neville away from her brother. "John B!"

Neville swung the machete toward Isa, as Isa ducked. When he tried to punch her, Isa blocked the move and pushed him back. Neville grabbed a hold of Isa's wounded arm, digging into her jagged flesh, making her scream as he kicked her down.

Kie and Lia ran closer to tackle Neville away from Isa, trying to get him to stop. "Isa!"

Neville struggled to get both of the girls off, pushing them to the edge of the boat.

JJ and Kaylee grabbed Neville.

John B was yelling from the ground. "Sir! Listen! Neville! We just wanna talk!"

Neville spun around, whipping his elbow into JJ's unprotected ribs, sending him sprawling to the floor with a groan of pain.

Kaylee pushed Neville away from him, worried. "JJ!"

Neville turned to Kie, Lia and Kaylee with the machete, both of them worried.

Isa, John B and JJ were recovering as they looked up and saw this.

"Stop, stop!" John B told him.

"Leave them alone!" Isa urged.

Lia found a rope and tossed the end of it toward Kaylee and Kie. "Kay, Kie, trip line."

Lia, Kie and Kaylee yanked on the rope hard, holding it out in front of them as Neville ran closer, using the rope to trip Neville and send him falling to the ground.

Neville fell to the deck with a dull thud, putting his hands up over his face to defend himself.

Lia and Kie helped Isa stand.

"We're not here to hurt you, man!" Kaylee said hurriedly. "We know Professor Sowell."

"Who gave you that name?" Neville breathed, getting to his feet, brandishing the machete, swinging it toward Isa.

Isa ducked under the blow, the tip of the blade just barely missing her. "Whoa!"

Neville swung again at Isa, as Isa didn't manage to duck quite as quickly, getting nicked in her side with the machete, crying out.

Kie ran at Neville to push him away from Isa as she was recovering. In doing so, Neville managed to spin them around and push Kie to the ground, holding the machete posed at her head as he pushed it down. Kie barely held it off.

Kaylee and Lia grabbed Neville from behind as they pulled him back, barely managing in time to stop him from stabbing Kie with the machete, though it did nick her arm, making her groan in pain.

Kie and Isa were both breathing heavily, blood sliding down their arms toward their wrists. John B and JJ ran toward them, helping them up.

Kaylee and Lia managed to pin Neville to the wall, making him drop the machete.

"Let it go, dude!" Kaylee snapped.

Lia was finally able to get it, turning the machete to aim at Neville to stop him. "We're on the same team, okay?"

"Listen to me, we're friends, okay?" John B asked pleadingly. When Neville kept struggling, unable to break free, he continued. "Hey! You were in Orinoco last year! With five other people. Right?"

"How did you know that?" Neville whispered.

"Look, we don't want to hurt you, okay?" Kie asked. "Even after that."

Isa and Kie walked closer, as Kaylee and Lia both looked at them worriedly, making sure they were okay.

Isa and Kie nodded.

Kaylee and Lia had to tap into their own inner darkness just to have enough adrenaline and strength to keep Neville pinned until they could get through to him, yet the chaos brewing in Lia's eyes told them that she might not be able to control it as she still held Neville's machete tightly, the anger raging violently after what Neville did to both of her lovers. Lia pressed the machete against Neville's skin, almost enough to break skin and draw blood in a moment of blind fury, causing Isa, Kie, Kaylee, John B and JJ to look at her in concern.

Isa and Kie approached Lia cautiously, their hands outstretched in a placating gesture, their eyes filled with a mix of concern and understanding. They could see the storm raging behind Lia's eyes, the darkness that threatened to consume her. The air was thick with tension as they watched their girlfriend teetering on the edge of control, the machete quivering slightly in her white-knuckled grip.

"Lia," Isa whispered, her voice soft but steady. She placed her hand gently on Lia's shoulder, feeling the tension coiled beneath her skin. "It's okay. We're safe now."

Kie mirrored Isa's actions on Lia's other side, her touch feather-light but grounding as she rested her hand on Lia's other shoulder. "You protected us, love. You can let go now. We've got this under control."

For a moment, Lia remained frozen, the machete still pressed dangerously against Neville's skin. Her breath came in short, sharp bursts. The blade pressed harder against Neville's skin, a thin red line appearing where metal met flesh.

"Lia, please," Kie pleaded, taking another step closer. "Look at us."

Lia closed her eyes for a brief moment before she turned her head to look at Isa and Kie, focusing on all the ways that they anchored her to control.

The moment her gaze met theirs, the storm inside Lia began to settle. She took a deep breath, feeling the warmth of their hands on her shoulders, grounding her in the chaos.

"Let him go," Isa urged gently, her eyes wide with concern but filled with unwavering support. "You don't need to carry this weight alone."

Kie's voice joined in softly, but with strength. "We're here for you, Lia. You're not alone."

Lia swallowed hard, the adrenaline of the earlier confrontation still coursing through her veins as she battled against the urge to unleash her fury on Neville for hurting her loved ones. But as she stared into the worried faces of Isa and Kie, clarity washed over her like a wave. They were right; she didn't have to let this darkness consume her.

With a shaky exhale, Lia lowered the machete slowly, taking a step back as she released Neville from her grip. The blade fell from her hands, clattering onto the floorboards of the boat.

Isa and Kie quickly enveloped Lia in their arms as they guided her away from Neville.

Lia wrapped her arms around them firmly but gently, her eyes locking onto their wounds. "He hurt you."

"We're okay," Isa assured. "Don't worry about us."

"We're right here with you," Kie murmured.

Lia tightened her hold around Isa and Kie, kissing them both on their heads. She couldn't let anyone hurt her loves ever again.

Kaylee, JJ and John B watched with intensity yet relief that they got through to Lia before something else happened.

Kaylee looked at the girls in concern. "You good?"

They nodded, so Kaylee, JJ and John B nodded in return.

John B looked at Neville. "We were just with Sowell yesterday. He, uh... he didn't make it."

Neville's face twisted in grief. "He's dead?"

"Yeah," Isa confirmed. "Yeah. I'm sorry."

Kaylee let Neville go when it was clear he was no longer going to fight them.

Neville inhaled a shuddering breath, sinking into the nearest chair. "I'm the last one left."

"That's why we had to get to you before they did," Kie told him gently.

"If we found you, they can too," JJ added.

Isa took out the drawing, unfolding it, putting it in front of Neville on the table. "We just have a few questions. Solana, you've been there, yeah?"

Neville looked up, his eyes dark and hard. "That is a place of evil."

John B pointed to the drawing. "Okay. That stone piece right there? Me, my sister here and our dad found the thingy that goes in the center. The gnomon. Now, there's some bad men who have taken our father to this place, and they're gonna kill him. So we need your help to find this place, Neville."

Neville shook his head firmly, rising to his feet, and putting his hands up. "No, no, no. The curse has already done enough."

Isa shook her head. "No, no, no. Look, it's not a curse. Okay? We understand that it's dangerous, but we need your help."

Lia heard something, looking toward the entrance of the boat. "Hey."

"What?" Kaylee asked. "What's going on? Hey."

Lia put up a hand. "Shh, shut up. All of you." When the room was quiet, the faint buzz of a boat engine could be heard outside. Lia peered out the window. "Hey, Neville, how much traffic do you get on this river?"

"Nothing," Neville answered.

They heard a man shout from outside. "Neville! Neville Persaud!"

Kaylee looked out the window again to see the boat coming into view, seeing men aiming guns at the boat, turning to the others. "Singh's men. Get down!"

Kaylee, JJ, Isa, Lia, Kie, John B and Neville all ducked just a second before gunshots started to fire into the boathouse, the windows shattering, showering the group with glistening shards of glass.

Despite doing everything in his power to push her away, JJ couldn't help his instant instinct to protect Kaylee, covering her as the gunfire rained above, both of them ducking into each other's hold.

Isa, Kie and Lia instantly held their arms over each other's heads to cover each other, tangled together in a web of protection from the coming gunfire.

John B hovered just nearby to protect both himself and his sister and her girlfriends.

"Jesus!" Kie complained. "Oh, my God."

Finally, the gunfire ended.

"Get the anchor!" Neville yelled. "Go!"

"We got it!" JJ responded, grabbing the machete off of the floor.

John B, Isa, Kie, Lia and Kaylee followed JJ out onto the deck, splitting into two groups.

JJ passed the machete to Kaylee.

"Isa, Kaylee, Lia, you two get the anchor up," John B told them. "JJ, Kie and I'll go see what we can do about those guys."

"Be careful," Kie whispered. "Don't get killed."

Isa shrugged. "Can't kill a Pogue, Kie. Though, seriously, guys, if you do, I'll kill you myself."

Kaylee nodded in agreement. "Me too."

Lia smirked. "Same."

JJ and John B nodded slightly.

JJ nudged John B and Kie. "Let's move."

John B, Kie and JJ made their way back.

Kaylee turned to Isa and Lia. "Let's do it. You see the line?"

Meanwhile, John B, Kie and JJ swam around the side of the ship.

"That's their boat, right?" Kie checked.

John B nodded, looking at the small white boat drifting beside Neville's houseboat. He could see Ryan standing there, armed with what looked like a shotgun.

JJ put a finger to his lips, beckoning for John B and Kie to follow.

John B and Kie nodded.

JJ climbed almost silently up onto the small boat, reaching for the key stuck in the ignition. He tugged it out, and John B and Kie covered the click with quiet splashes.

Ryan did not turn, too distracted with whatever was going on inside the houseboat, as Fenton was searching for Neville inside.

Fenton was looking around. "Neville? Neville! I know you're in here! Let's get this over with! You can't hide forever."

John B climbed up onto the boat and snuck up on Ryan, clamping his hand over Ryan's mouth so he couldn't yell for help, restraining him so that Kie could grab Ryan's gun and use it to spin them around. John B pushed Ryan toward the edge of the boat. Kie ran at Ryan, slamming the shotgun against his chest to send him flying off the edge of the boat into the water.

John B and Kie exchanged a look, breathing heavily, walking slowly into the boat, and John B signaled for JJ and Kie to make a right. He, meanwhile, headed for the helm.

In the boat, Fenton turned to look outside, distracted when he heard them, aiming his gun.

Neville stormed out of the closet, pushing the gun up toward the ceiling, making it shoot but miss him entirely. Without missing a beat, Neville started swinging a frying pan at Fenton repeatedly, hitting him viciously, knocking his gun to the ground. Fenton immediately took Neville down in return, kicking in his head, dazing him, walking out to the back of the boat near the anchor.

John B, Kie and JJ had gotten onto the boat to look for Isa, Kaylee and Lia but didn't see them.

John B reached for Fenton's gun, but Fenton kicked John B back and grabbed the gun, aiming it at John B, Kie and JJ.

John B, Kie and JJ all raised their hands in surrender to avoid being shot.

"Hey, wait, wait, wait," John B told him.

Fenton chuckled. "Not this time, my friend. Uh-uh." Inside the boat, Neville recovered from the blow to his head and ran to the helm of the boat. "Down."

John B, Kie and JJ slowly lowered to their knees, searching for an escape. And while they didn't see one right off, they did see something else just behind Fenton, keeping his focus on them.

Isa, Kaylee and Lia were half-submerged in the water, rising up from the water, as Kaylee held the machete in one hand.

Neville got the houseboat to start, jerking forward.

Fenton stumbled, giving Isa, Kaylee and Lia the chance to strike.

Kaylee climbed up the ladder and jumped at Fenton with an enraged yell, using the machete to slice at Fenton's arms, slashing them enough to make him drop his gun to the ground.

Fenton yelled in pain, holding his arms to his chest. He raised his gaze to glare at Kaylee.

Kaylee turned to Fenton, aiming the machete, pausing in shock to see that it was Fenton; the same guard that she and Rafe took down in Barbados, tied up and held at gunpoint to escape their captors, and blew up Singh's estate with Fenton inside.

They hadn't realized Fenton was still alive, but seeing him now, burned and scarred, glaring at Kaylee in rage, Kaylee's heart froze.

Fenton had no words to say; he just wanted to kill Kaylee in revenge for what she and Rafe did to him, but he was weakened from the explosion and the machete wounds, though he took advantage of Kaylee freezing, drawing a knife and stabbing her in the arm, making her scream, as he tried to lunge at her to kill her.

The pain snapped Kaylee out of it as she fended Fenton off with the machete, driving it against his hands to make him drop the knife, pushing him off, making him back away from her toward the ladder behind him as she stalked closer with the machete, ready to wield further.

Fenton was about to try to take the machete from Kaylee before he was attacked from behind by Isa.

Isa was climbing up the ladder, punching Fenton in the crotch to make him groan in pain and fall to his knees, grabbing Fenton by the back of the shirt and flipping him over her head, off of the boat.

Fenton started to fall straight past Isa and down toward Lia down below on the ladder, where Lia swung herself forward and double-legged kicked Fenton further away from the boat and straight into the water below, nearly falling off from the ladder in the process.

Isa leaned down to catch Lia by one arm, hanging by one hand on the ladder to do so, both dangling and nearly falling into the water.

Kaylee reached out to catch Isa's hand, her other hand still holding the machete, bracing herself against the edge of the boat as she clutched Isa's hand, both of them groaning in pain because of their arms.

JJ, John B and Kie instantly stood and ran closer to help Kaylee pull Isa and Lia up onto the boat, all of them relieved that they were all okay.

"We tried to pull the anchor up," Lia admitted. "It's really stuck."

"Kay, machete," JJ told her.

Kaylee tossed the machete to JJ. "Cut the line, cut the line!"

JJ caught it, running to the anchor, slashing the machete through the line, so that the boat could start to move forward, away from Fenton and Ryan in the water before they could get back, to the boat.

"That's one way to do it, I guess," John B muttered, turning to his sister and their best friends worriedly. "Everyone okay?"

Kaylee, Isa, Kie, Lia and JJ nodded.

Still in the water from where the Pogues launched them into, Ryan and Fenton watched them go downstream, glaring at the teens they couldn't seem to get away from.

"This isn't over!" Ryan yelled.

Isa, Kie, Lia, Kaylee, JJ and John B glared in return, raising their hands to flip them off.

"Come on," Kie told them.

They turned around, heading inside to join Neville in the helm.

"Go, go!" Lia urged.

"Go, go, go," Isa told him.

"You gotta go, you gotta go," Kaylee insisted.

"Yeah, I'm going," Neville replied. "Are they coming?"

"No, we're good," John B answered.

"You owe me an anchor," Neville told them.

JJ scoffed. "You're welcome."

Kaylee was gazing off at nothing, stunned by seeing Fenton alive, burned and out for revenge, but she had attacked him with all her darkness and could have ended up killed by him if Isa and Lia hadn't flipped him into the water instead.

Isa looked at Kaylee in realization, comforting yet grounding all the same.  "That was Fenton, wasn't it?"

Kaylee nodded numbly.

Isa, Kie, Lia, JJ and John B looked at Kaylee in stunned silence. Not only by the guard's survival, but having seen Kaylee's darkness in full when she attacked him all over again, yet there was no judgment after just seeing Lia's moments before.

"I didn't even know he survived," Kaylee whispered, unsure of what to feel.

"He did," John B assured, despite his uneasiness of seeing that side of Kaylee, but providing comfort and safety just like the others. "You didn't kill anyone, Kaylee."

Kaylee swallowed. "Anyone else you mean, John B. And not for the lack of trying. His face is proof enough. I did that to him. He wanted to kill me."

"You handled him," JJ replied. "You, Lia and Isa all did."

Lia looked at her comfortingly. "You did what you had to. Then and now."

Kaylee didn't know if she believed that, but now, she didn't feel guilty for what she did to Fenton, knowing she did it for survival. She felt less and less guilt of using her dark side... and that seemed to scare her less and less as well. Which may have been even more terrifying.

Kie took Kaylee's arm comfortingly, looking at her sister soothingly. "It's okay. It's not your fault."

Isa sat down next to Kaylee, wrapping her arm around her.  Kaylee leaned into her best friend's hold gratefully.

They knew that they couldn't keep talking about this, having to move on, as Kaylee shut down about it, though Kaylee and Lia shared a knowing look that spoke volumes about their similar darkness.

John B tore a hand through his hair. "Look, Neville, they're taking our father to that place. You're the only person left who knows where it is. They are going to kill him unless you help us."

"They're going after the gold?" Neville asked after a pause.

"Yeah, what else are they going to be going after?" Lia replied.

"Then they'll die anyway," Neville told them. "Unless they can pass the test, which they won't if they can't translate the idol. You know the story."

Isa, Kie, Lia, John B, Kaylee and JJ exchanged a confused look.

"No," Kie answered.

Neville nodded. "El Dorado was found by a Guajiro king, and when it came time for him to slip his mortal coil and meet my greats on the astral plane, he wasn't just going to give the gold to his sons. It was the source of his power. It had to go to the wisest man, and to ensure this actually happened, he set up the test of the gnomon."

John B rolled his eyes. "So there's, like, some test now. Okay."

Lia gazed off. "There's always a test"

Neville sighed. "Whoever passes the test gains access to the gold. You fail the test, you die. If you somehow get to the gold without taking the test, then you die."

Kaylee crossed her arms. "Great. There's no way that actually can happen, right? Sounds like bullshit to me."

"Tell that to the crew of the San Jose and the Royal Merchant," Neville countered.

"We don't want the gold, Neville," Isa told him, sincere in what she said. 

JJ made a sheepish face. "Well..."

Isa looked at Neville. "We just want to save our dad. Please."

Neville chewed on his lip for a moment, then groaned. "Take the wheel."

JJ saluted sarcastically, doing as he was told. "Yes, sir."

Neville pulled out a piece of paper and began drawing a loose map. "You must go to the port of Tres Rocas. From there, find ferry passage from a river guide called Jose. He will take you up the Orinoco to El Tesoro. It is there. In the bush, you will find a site."

JJ looked at Isa, Kie, Lia, Kaylee and John B. "Guess we're back in the G-game."

"Never left," Kaylee replied.

Neville sighed. "Make yourself pure of heart, pure of mind. You are there to save your father. The gold kills everyone."

John B shared a look with Isa, Kie, Lia, Kaylee and JJ, then took the map. "All right. Thank you."

"Thank you," Isa agreed.

Neville swatted JJ's arm halfheartedly. "Move over."

JJ cleared his throat. "Yes, sir."

Lia looked at Isa, Kie and Kaylee. "Let's get you three home and take care of those."

Lia gestured to their wounds.

Isa, Kie and Kaylee nodded.

Kie wrapped her arms around Isa and Lia. "Besides, we have a little kitten to get back home to at the Chateau. I bet Indy is going insane without us all there to spend time spoiling her to hell."

Isa and Lia smiled slightly, relieved for Kie cheering them up.

⚓️

Caribbean Sea

Singh's Boat

Singh had Big John captive as they were heading to South America, watching him try to translate the idol. "You making it out, John?"

Big John cleared his throat. "Yeah, yeah, making some progress. Got some of the stern here sorted. Tells a story of the Sun King and how he came to rule, the hagiography of the divine leader. He emerged, spread his light, yada yada."

Singh shook his head, walking away. "And what's this story exactly, John? Tel me more now."

"Well, that's what I'm working out," Big John stated. "So far, best I can tell, it starts when the king springs fully grown from out of the earth."

Singh poured them both a drink, chuckling. "From the lions of the earth, indeed."

Big John frowned, a bead of sweat on his forehead as he was nervously trying to buy himself time. "Yeah, that--that's promising, right?"

Singh walked closer, handing one glass to Big John. "To a fast translation, John."

Big John took the glass. "Hell, I'll drink to that."

They clinked their glasses, drinking.

Singh looked out over the sea. "You know, my family came over here as indentured servants. All the way from India. That was in 1913. They came over with the last formal expedition to search for El Dorado."

"Teddy Roosevelt's?" Big John asked. "Your family was on the last expedition?"

Singh gave a slight nod, tense. "Teddy Roosevelt. We were tricked, you know. Humiliated. Enslaved. But on the next full moon, on the solstice, when the moonlight shines upon Water Cat, you, John, will have solved the meaning of the gnomon, and my family's history will be avenged, you know." He laughed, patting Big John on the shoulder, walking away. "Or I'll tie you to a banyan tree and leave you for the ants."

Big John watched him go nervously.

⚓️

Kildare Island

Street

(Song:) Blue Hundreds - Leon Thomas

Rafe and Barry walked down the deserted street.

Rafe was wearing his sunglasses, hands in his pockets.

Barry had slight burns from the previous chapter, which definitely amused Rafe, as Rafe was smirk.

"Yeah, laugh all you want," Barry replied. "Little sis is a bitch."

Rafe shrugged pointedly, smugly. "Say what you want about her, but at least she knows how to make a fucking point. You won't be going after her again, will you? You're welcome, by the way."

Barry waved him off. "Whatever. And I'm not thanking your ass for ironically getting through to Little Lia."

"And stopped her from killing your ass?" Rafe replied.

Barry tilted his head. "Can we just focus on the deal? You know this guy is good too?"

Rafe nodded. "Mm-hmm. I mean, we got a lot of people to see today. So here's what we're gonna do."

As he was walking, Rafe looked around the street as if he owned the island.

⚓️

Montage of Meetings

Rafe had set the meetings with quite a few people to sell the gold pieces.

Barry poured the gold nuggets onto a table.

Rafe: (voice over) "We're gonna piecemeal this shit out. One nugget at a time. Sell a bit here. A little bit there. Under the radar."

At the latest buyer's, the man handed Rafe two stacks of big bills.

Rafe waited. "A little light."

The man sighed, putting another stack into Rafe's hand.

Rafe smirked.

⚓️

The Chateau - Outside

JJ was skipping rocks across the water outside the Chateau.

Isa walked toward JJ, standing on the dock behind him. "So you gonna keep ignoring Kaylee like you did on the entire mission today?"

"If that's what it takes to keep her safe," JJ replied. "I couldn't keep her safe when Rafe Cameron of all people could, so..."

Isa rolled her eyes. "JJ, I'm so tired of this bullshit where you think that you failed in being her boyfriend because the two of you couldn't control what Tod and his psychotic family did to her or what Cian and Genevieve are doing now. It's not your fault or hers. And you two deserve each other. You make each other the happiest we've ever seen you two. And when you're not together, you're miserable."

JJ looked down, tilting her head. "Yeah, well, right now, Rafe seems to be making her happy, so..."

"That's because he's there for her right now and providing her distractions and escapes so she can run away from her pain," Isa retorted. "And instead of being there for her like you should be, you're pushing her away. Look, you're not Tod, and you're not like your dad. You know that, right?"

JJ grimaced, looking down. "I'm trying not to be."

"I can think of numerous differences," Isa told him. "You wanna hear them?"

"Not really," JJ answered.

Isa went on anyway, needing to convince her brother-figure that he needed to stop this self-destructive behavior and let himself be happy with her best friend - so that both of them could be happy together. " Great. Okay, number one. You're selfless. Your dad was always out for himself. You'd sooner die than let anyone you care about get hurt, which is something both you and Kaylee have in common. And you'd take a bullet for any of us. But please don't ever die. Your dad is also a full-time asshole, and you're only part time."

Isa and JJ both couldn't help small smiles.

"Only part time?" JJ repeated in amusement.

Isa nodded. "Mm-hmm. You're only an asshole some of the time. I got another one. Actually, I could go on for hours, but the most important point here is that you have a really good heart. Your dad's heart was like a rotten apple. Yours is like the golden apple."

JJ gave a slight smile at Isa trying to cheer him up. "Okay, okay, I get it."

"The point is, you're not your dad," Isa told him. "And I know you feel guilty for 'dragging' Kaylee down with you, but you can't drag someone down when they wanted to be our friend, caring about us just as much as we care about her. Don't you trust her?"

"Yeah," JJ answered.

"Then trust her to make her own choices," Isa told him. "Rafe may have saved her life, and he may be helping her now, and he's there for her. Yeah. But you've been her best friend for her entire life, and she loves you. You're the one, JJ. You're the one she chose to be with and to love, and she's doing everything she does to protect you after she almost lost you way too many times."

JJ looked down. "Yeah, and what if she has feelings for him now after everything he did for her?"

Isa looked at JJ sadly. "Maybe she's confused and she needs some time to sort things out. That's true. Just talk to her instead of pushing her away for once. But don't blame her when you were the one that was pushing her toward Rafe in the first place after saying that he was the one doing everything right when you said that you were doing everything wrong. Don't make her feel bad for it. She's already doing everything she can to protect the rest of us as usual, and she can't help how she feels. But it doesn't change that she fucking loves you."

JJ nodded barely in agreement. "I know, Isa."

"You don't want to lose her again, do you?" Isa asked.

"No," JJ answered.

Isa gave him a slight smirk. "Then get off your ass, go fix shit with Kay and figure it out. 'Cause you're not fooling anyone, Jayj. You're still in love with Kaylee, as much as Kaylee's still in love with you."

JJ couldn't help but smile. "Okay, you win. I'll talk to her when I see her again."

Isa couldn't help but smile. "Was it my poeticism that won you over?"

JJ pretended to dry his eyes. "Oh, yeah. You've touched my heart, Isa."

Isa chuckled, shaking her head at JJ's dramatic flair. "You're impossible, you know that?"

"Yeah, but you love me for it," JJ retorted playfully, nudging her shoulder.

Isa rolled her eyes but couldn't help the grin that spread across her face. "Alright, you better talk to her tonight. I'll hold you to that promise."

"Yeah, yeah," JJ replied, rolling his eyes playfully.

Isa smirked teasingly. "Just remember, I'm always here to dish out the tough love."

JJ chuckled, feeling a lightness in his chest he hadn't felt in a while. "You're the best. Seriously."

Isa stepped back, crossing her arms as she surveyed the tranquil waters reflecting the clouds above. "Now, enough about you and your dramatic angst. I've gotta head to meet the girls and Pope at the cabin. We're gonna get ready for the party tonight."

"Good luck," JJ said.

"Thank you," Isa replied.

Suddenly, Isa felt a gentle nudge at her leg. It was Indy, the little kitten weaving between her feet and looking up with wide green eyes. Isa crouched down to scoop Indy into her arms, cradling the tiny creature close.

"Come on, Indy," Isa cooed softly. "It's time to go see the others."

JJ waved to them lightly. "See you guys."

Isa started to walk away with Indy in her arms.

Despite being comforted by Isa's words, JJ couldn't bring himself to fully believe them yet, still conflicted. Yet, he was touched by his sister-figure's words all the same.

⚓️

Tannyhill Estate - Outside

(Song:) Dark Side - Neoni

If Kaylee hadn't needed a distraction before the mission, she definitely needed it now, before her parents' anniversary party tonight. After taking a few of her pain pills, she showed up to Tannyhill to take Rafe up on his offer of one of their games before the night's festivities, feeling less and less guilty about playing their games to escape her reality and her agony. Just as she felt less and less guilty for giving into her dark side recently.

She just needed to escape the pain of what her parents were doing to her, the reality of the Laurents and the threats hanging in the balance, the anxiety knowing that the plane heist was only a day away, her earlier encounter with Fenton and her injury from his rage when he tried to kill her in revenge, and that her parents' anniversary party was tonight and anything could happen. She didn't care if that meant going to Tannyhill to play one of these games with Rafe to make the rest of the world and all of her pressure and expectations fade away temporarily, to make adrenaline take over and release some of her inner darkness without hurting anyone.

Kaylee walked up to the estate, looking around, seeing that Rafe's party was about to start, heading inside.

⚓️

Inside - Foyer

Kaylee walked into Tannyhill, looking around. "Rafe?"

In the study, Rafe saw Kaylee walk in through the security cam system, getting an idea, smirking, pulling up the camera feed on his phone as he stood, walking out of the study, calling Kaylee.

In the foyer, Kaylee took out her phone, looking at the Caller ID to see Rafe calling. She was confused, answering the phone. "Why are you calling me?"

"I'm bored," Rafe replied. "And the only reason why you would be dropping by after your mission is if you're taking me up on my offer of one of our little games before the parties today."

Kaylee sighed, tilting her head back. "Guilty as charged."

Rafe smirked. "This time, I hide, you seek."

Kaylee scoffed a chuckle. "Fine. What the hell?"

Rafe smiled. "Ever hear of hotter, colder?"

Kaylee looked up at the security cameras on the walls. "Are you using the fucking cameras?"

"Obviously," Rafe answered.

Kaylee rolled her eyes sarcastically, flippantly flipping the camera off.

Rafe smirked in amusement. "If you're close, I'll say hot. If you're far, I'll say cold. Play with me. I'll make it worth your while, trust me."

Kaylee started moving through the house. She headed toward the study first, figuring that was a likely place for Rafe to be - ironically where Rafe was when Kaylee first arrived before he left to begin the game.

"Cold," came Rafe's voice as she approached the study door.

Kaylee changed direction, heading upstairs instead.

"Colder," Rafe said.

Kaylee turned around, nearing the kitchen.

"Warm," Rafe guided.

As Kaylee wandered her way through the kitchen, she had a sneaking suspicion where Rafe would be - on the back terrace, where they had danced for the first time during the debutante season. They also shared their first kiss outside this house, but that was on the front porch, which Kaylee had passed on her way inside.

"Getting hotter," Rafe's voice teased through the phone as Kaylee made her way toward the terrace.

Kaylee made her way toward the terrace doors, adrenaline thrumming through her veins and her heart beating in her ears as memories flooded through her mind from last year. It was exhilarating yet tormenting, a painful sort of addiction. Seeing how much Rafe had changed over the last few years alone - first with becoming consumed with darkness to pulling himself together and rising above the darkness, showcasing whatever good he still had within him as he used that to help Kaylee and her loved ones with the plane heist and to clear her name, save her life and the lives of Lia, Wheezie and Isa... and to stop Lia from ruining her life... it was an emotional rollercoaster.

"Very hot," Rafe murmured as she reached the doors.

Kaylee's hand hesitated on the doorknob for a brief moment before she pushed open the door.

⚓️

Back Terrace

The terrace seemed empty.

Kaylee frowned, stepping outside and looking around in confusion. "Where are you?"

Suddenly, strong arms wrapped around her from behind. Kaylee gasped as Rafe pulled her against his chest.

Rafe murmured in her ear. "Right here."

Kaylee's heart raced as Rafe's arms encircled her, his breath hot against her ear. She could feel the solid warmth of his chest pressed against her back.

"Found you," Kaylee said, her voice shakier than she would have liked.

Rafe chuckled low in her ear. "Mmm, I think I'm the one who found you."

Rafe's lips brushed against her skin as he spoke, sending shivers down her spine. Kaylee closed her eyes, conflicting emotions warring within her. Part of her wanted to pull away, to maintain the distance between them. But another part craved his touch, longed for the distraction from everything else in her life.

She knew it was a way to use him again, which Rafe made clear he was more than okay with. He didn't care if Kaylee used him as a distraction from her pain and her life.

When Rafe looked down at Kaylee's arm, underneath the sleeve of her jacket, he saw that Kaylee was injured, despite the bandage that covered her wound. His teeth clenched at the thought of Kaylee getting hurt while on the mission with the Pogues.

Rafe spun Kaylee around to face him, the sudden move startling her. His eyes darkened as he examined Kaylee's bandaged arm. His jaw clenched, fingers gently tracing over the fabric covering her wound.

"What happened?" Rafe demanded, voice low and dangerous.

Kaylee swallowed hard, averting her gaze. "It's nothing. Just a scratch from the mission."

Rafe's grip on her tightened slightly. "Don't lie to me, Kaylee. This is more than a scratch."

Kaylee sighed, knowing he wouldn't let it go. "We ran into some trouble. There was a fight. I got cut."

Rafe's eyes flashed with anger. "Who did this to you?"

Kaylee could see the rage building in his eyes, knew he was imagining all the ways he could hurt whoever had harmed her. It terrified her yet sent a strange sense of satisfaction through her that she denied to herself.

"It doesn't matter," Kaylee insisted. "It's over now."

Rafe studied her face intently, searching for any sign of deception. After a long moment, he seemed to relent. "This conversation isn't over."

Kaylee looked up at Rafe, unsurprised to see genuine concern mixed with the anger in his eyes. She knew he cared, but it never failed to baffle her as to why given everything.

Kaylee took a deep breath. "Why did you bring me here?"

Rafe chuckled, looking around. "The first place we danced. I'd have taken you to the first place we kissed, but you already passed that on your way in. Besides, people will be here any minute for the party. I figured this would be more fitting."

Kaylee raised an eyebrow, her heart racing at the implication behind his words. "Fitting? For what exactly?"

Rafe stepped closer, his expression shifting from concern to playful mischief. "For a little distraction before the chaos starts. We both know your parents' party tonight is going to be anything but peaceful."

Kaylee felt a flicker of excitement in her chest, despite the heaviness of the day's events, knowing that tonight would only be worse. The idea of dancing with Rafe again, even just for a moment, felt like a sweet escape from the reality that loomed ahead.

The last time they danced was that night in the jet, the night that Rafe took Kaylee miles high in the sky for an escape as if his jet was a club, and they danced the night away, which had been one of the best nights that Kaylee had in such a long time.

"You think we can just dance our problems away?" Kaylee asked, her tone teasing even as she felt her pulse quicken. "Like that night in the jet?"

Rafe grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Why not? Life's too short not to enjoy these little moments. Besides, if we time it right, we might just avoid running into any excruciating small talk with your family."

"So are you talking about dancing here, or at my parents' party?" Kaylee asked in amusement.

Rafe shrugged nonchalantly. "Why not both?"

Kaylee laughed lightly out of both surprise and disbelief, causing Rafe to smile in response.

Even without the party music playing yet, Rafe pulled Kaylee into a dance on the terrace. "This is just for the distraction for right now. If you need distracting at their party later, I'll be all too happy to sweep you away and dance with you on the dock or on the beach or some shit and make you forget about all the shit your parents are putting you through."

Kaylee found herself laughing, a giddy feeling bubbling up within her as she let Rafe lead her in a simple sway. The soft afternoon breeze wrapped around them, carrying with it the scent of the ocean and the promise of warmth that the night would bring.

"Alright, just for a little while," Kaylee agreed, allowing herself to sink into the moment as they moved together.

Rafe twirled Kaylee around playfully, the laughter spilling from her lips without her meaning to as he pulled her back against him, their bodies moving in tandem. The weight of the world faded for a brief moment, which felt surreal, as if they were in a world entirely of their own, separate from the chaos that awaited them later that night.

"I can't believe you're actually serious about this," Kaylee said, her voice playful despite the nervous fluttering in her stomach. "Dancing right now, right before my parents' big event?"

"Absolutely," Rafe replied. "And besides, it's also right before my party, so there's also technically no direct correlation."

"Okay, but sweeping me away from my parents' party to dance with me for a distraction?" Kaylee retorted. "Are you serious about that?"

"100%," Rafe answered. "If they pull something like they always do, they don't deserve you to be there for the entire party."

Kaylee laughed lightly, letting herself get lost in the rhythm of their movements. She could feel the warmth radiating from his body, and for a brief second, it felt like everything else faded away.

Inside the house, they could hear when people were arriving for Rafe's party, as music was starting to play and cheers were heard, drawing Kaylee and Rafe's attention away from their dance.

Rafe turned to Kaylee, smiling slightly. "Time to party."

Kaylee chuckled a bit. "So it seems."

Rafe's expression turned slightly serious. "I know you're risking a lot tonight going to your parents' party, or even being here with everything going on, fugitive status and all even with Esme's Interpol protection. So I get it if you want to dip out instead of taking a chance on the party here. Especially with the Kook crowd."

"What are the Kook crowd even doing still hanging around you when you've been trying to clear my name this entire time?" Kaylee asked curiously.

"They've been treating me like shit ever since," Rafe admitted. "But they like to come and use me to get high and get drunk at the parties because they know I have the best supply in town. And I get to turn the tables on them and humiliate them when I get the chance. You could, too."

Kaylee tilted her head in thought for a moment, biting her lip. The thought that the Kook crowd was here - the same people that wanted to see her punished for Tod's death - and that she could rebel against them, stand up against them and humiliate them... it was too good to resist.

Kaylee smirked slightly. "What the hell? I'm already gonna be at a party later tonight in front of the whole island, in front of Pogues and Kooks. One more party couldn't hurt. Especially if I get to put these assholes in their place."

Rafe's eyes lit up with a mixture of mischief and excitement. "That's the spirit, firebird. Show them exactly who you are now."

Kaylee felt a surge of adrenaline at his words, her heart racing at the thought of reclaiming her power. This was more than just a party; it was a chance to turn the tables on everyone who had tried to tear her down. To show the Kooks that she wasn't the scared girl they once bullied.

Rafe stepped back, extending his hand toward her. "Shall we?"

With a grin spreading across her face, Kaylee grasped Rafe's hand, allowing him to lead her back inside Tannyhill.

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Inside - Foyer

(Song:) Ooga Booga! - Ski Mask the Slump God

The vibrant beats of music pulsed through the air as they entered, filling them with an infectious energy.

Kaylee and Rafe, hand in hand, stepped into the foyer where guests were mingling and laughter echoed off the walls - a stark contrast to the tension that had marked Kaylee's day so far. She glanced around at familiar faces, who were too involved with the party to notice who was beside their host at first glance.

The inside of the house was mostly empty. The party was mostly going on outside in front of the house, so Rafe led Kaylee upstairs toward the balcony over the front porch.

⚓️

Balcony

As they stepped outside, the laughter and voices of the partygoers mingled with the summer air. Colorful lights twinkled from strings overhead, and tables were adorned with decorations that showcased Rafe's flair for drama.

Rafe led Kaylee out onto the balcony of Tannyhill, getting them both a drink, placing his sunglasses on. "And if you would kindly follow me, Miss Kaylee."

Kaylee took the cup from him, looking out over the grounds as the party started to take full swing. 

Rafe led Kaylee along. "VIP section."

Kaylee raised an eyebrow. "Oh, yeah?"

Rafe nodded. "Yeah, only very, very special people are allowed here."

Kaylee took a drink.

Rafe pointed toward the ocean. "So you can see the water."

One by one, people down below from the party started to notice Kaylee was on the balcony with Rafe - including Topper and Kelce who were in the crowd below, staring in dumbfounded disbelief.

Kaylee smirked at their expressions. "Oh, my God. This is priceless."

Kaylee took out her cellphone to take pictures of their faces.

Rafe chuckled in amusement. "I thought you'd might like that."

"Oh, it's better than I imagined," Kaylee laughed. "Look at their faces!"

Rafe leaned against the railing, a smirk playing on his lips as he watched Kaylee revel in the moment. "You're enjoying this."

Kaylee turned to him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Are you kidding? This is like a dream come true. They thought they could push me around, but look at me now!"

The laughter bubbled up inside her as Kaylee snapped another photo, capturing the look of disbelief etched on Topper's face as he glared up at them. She had always been the underdog, but tonight she felt like a queen standing over her kingdom.

"Just wait until I send these to everyone," Kaylee declared, already envisioning the reactions of the Pogues.

Rafe chuckled, shaking his head. "You're going to ruin them before the night even gets started."

"That's the point!" Kaylee shot back playfully, nudging him with her shoulder. The thrill of rebellion surged through her veins.

Kelce was the first to regain his composure, pointing an accusatory finger toward the balcony. "What the hell is she doing with him?"

Topper frowned, crossing his arms as he glared up at Rafe and Kaylee. "That should be us up there, not her. You think we want to see a freak show?"

Kaylee flipped them both off with both hands. "You think I give a flying fuck about what you think is a freak show?"

Rafe smirked down at them, clearly enjoying their discomfort. "Sorry, boys. Kaylee's in the VIP section now. You'll have to take it up with management."

Kaylee laughed, savoring the moment as she turned to Rafe. "This is amazing! They look like they just watched their favorite show get canceled."

Rafe leaned against the railing, his expression full of mischief. "Just wait until I throw some salt in the wound." He waved dramatically, drawing more attention to them. "Hey, everyone! Look who's up here!"

The reaction was instantaneous. Eyes turned toward them, widening in disbelief and outrage when they saw Kaylee by Rafe's side, which only made their mischief and delight escalate.

Rafe waved to the girl beside him. "She needs no introduction, but Kaylee fucking Carrera. You've all had a problem with me trying to clear her name and bring her home for an entire month. Well, she's home now. And she's up here with me. If any of you have a problem with that, or have a problem with me, get the hell out of my house. Get off my property."

Kaylee couldn't contain her laughter as the crowd below erupted into a mix of gasps and murmurs, faces shifting from disbelief to indignation. She leaned against the railing, feeling liberated as she soaked in the chaos they were causing.

"Look at them squirm!" Kaylee exclaimed, pointing at Topper, whose face was flushed with rage and disbelief. "This is better than any reality show."

Rafe chuckled beside her, clearly enjoying the spectacle. "I think we might have just set a new standard for chaos at parties."

"Kaylee's back and ready to burn this place down!" Kelce shouted from the crowd, prompting drunken cheers and mocking, cruel laughter. "Who's next to burn alive? Who's gonna be your next victim, Carrera?"

Rafe shot a glare toward Kelce.

Kaylee held out her hand to stop Rafe from retaliating, raising her own high above her head. "Not a damn person if I'm left alone, Kelce." Rafe looked at Kaylee proudly. "And you can all thank Rafe for this party crasher special!"

Rafe pretended to bow dramatically. "All in a day's work, my lady." He took Kaylee's hand, kissing it. "Tell them, firebird."

Kaylee had an exhilarated smile playing across her lips. The thrill of defiance surged through her as she took another sip from her drink.

Topper stepped forward, his face flushed with anger. "You think you can just waltz back into our world like nothing happened? You're still a fugitive!"

"And you're a still pathetic wannabe, obsessed stalker boyfriend for Sarah Cameron," Kaylee shot back ruthlessly, her voice steady and strong. "We all have our flaws."

Rafe snorted, smirking.

"Flaws?" Kelce repeated, crossing his arms. "That's rich, coming from you, Kaylee. Last I checked, you've got a pretty long list of your own - like being a total loser and a poser. Pretending to be a Pogue while being unable to accept you're a Kook. Oh, and I don't know, being a murderer."

"Nice try, but you really think I care about your opinion?" Kaylee challenged. "I don't need validation from someone who's never done anything worthwhile in their life. You know that the guy I fought back against in self-defense was a predator who drugged me and assaulted me - as in tried to rape me - twice. Both of you know that and yet you don't give a fuck about trying to sell me out as a murderer. So tell me who has the bigger flaws, you conceited dumb fucks. Your flaws are practically trending on social media at this point."

The laughter from the crowd below was mingled with gasps of disbelief at Topper and Kelce's faces were rigid with shame, rage and humiliation at being outed in front of all of the Kooks present.

Rafe leaned in closer to Kaylee, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes as he whispered to her. "You're on fire tonight."

Kaylee chuckled, feeling emboldened. The thrill of the moment fueled her confidence. "I could get used to this."

"You'll regret this, Kaylee," Topper spat, trying to maintain some semblance of dignity despite the humiliation unfolding before him. "You think you can just dance around here like a queen? You're gonna lose everything, again."

Kaylee merely waved goodbye. "See you later, dumb fucks."

Topper and Kelce looked at Rafe in disbelief as if they were pleading for their former friend to defend them.

Rafe merely waved them off without a word.

Topper and Kelce, thoroughly humiliated, turned and stormed off through the party.

Kaylee smiled victoriously.

Anyone else who had a problem with Kaylee being here or with Rafe fighting for her or having her here also left the party - which was more than half the party, but neither of them gave a damn.

Kaylee turned to Rafe, laughing lightly. "That felt better than I thought it would."

Rafe smiled, nodding. "For me, too."

Barry walked closer, smirking in amusement as his gaze flickering between Kaylee and Rafe. "I bet it would."

Rafe and Kaylee turned their heads to see Barry.

Barry pointed between the two. "Do I even want to know what's going on between you two here? I thought you were shacking up with pretty boy, pyro girl."

Kaylee glared at him. "Fuck off, Barry." She noticed Barry's burn on his arm from the night before, smirking. "Though I'm happy that I helped Lia leave you a parting gift, for her and Robbie, if nothing else."

Rafe smirked as he looked at the burn on Barry's arm.

Barry nodded sarcastically. "Yeah, hilarious. Laugh it up."

"Oh, I will, because there's no way you're dumb enough to try again after what she did to you," Kaylee replied. "You're only alive right now because of us, so you're welcome."

Barry scoffed. "Yeah, well, at least I know how to escape a Cameron. Little Lia may have gotten the best of me this time but looks like Rafe's got you exactly where he wants you, bitch."

Rafe sent Barry a glare. "Uh, I saved your life, you didn't escape Lia. And it's not like that."

"Oh, it's not like that?" Barry repeated mockingly.

Kaylee glared at him, picking up a nearby alcohol bottle. "If you don't back the fuck off, I'll bash you in the head with this and get a match and finish what we started."

Barry looked nervous - he knew just how serious and capable Kaylee was of doing so. "Ooh."

Rafe was proud for Kaylee standing up for herself and amused by how she did it, though he needed Barry as his business partner. He cut in, stepping closer, taking Kaylee gently by the arm, drawing her attention to him. "As much I love seeing you stand up like this, I need to talk to my business partner. Give me like five minutes. Please. I'll meet you inside."

Kaylee and Rafe met gazes for a moment, before Kaylee eyed Barry with a glare, giving in with a reluctant sigh. "Whatever."

Kaylee rolled her eyes, taking a drink from the bottle, turning around, walking toward the door.

Barry watched Kaylee go, laughing mockingly. "Aw, don't go running now, pyro girl."

Kaylee didn't even look at Barry as she flipped him off in response, still drinking as she walked inside.

Rafe smirked at Kaylee's reaction.

Barry turned to Rafe, smirking, shaking his head. "Damn, Country Club." Rafe turned toward Barry with a slight smirk. Barry chuckled. "You've really got her wrapped around your finger now, don't you?"

Rafe's expression darkened. "Watch it, Barry. She's off limits."

Barry held up his hands in mock surrender. "Hey, no need to get defensive. I'm just impressed. Never thought I'd see the day Kaylee would be playing nice with you."

Rafe's jaw clenched. "It's not like that. Things are... complicated."

Barry raised an eyebrow. "Complicated, huh? Well, whatever you're doing, it's working. Just be careful."

Rafe's jaw clenched at Barry's words. "Watch yourself, Barry. You don't know what you're talking about."

Barry held up his hands in mock surrender. "Hey, no judgment here. I'm just saying, that girl's got fire. And not just the literal kind." He chuckled at his own joke. "You might think you've got her under control, but trust me, she'll burn you if you're not careful."

Rafe stepped closer to Barry, his voice low and dangerous. "I told you, she's off limits. That includes talking about her. We clear?"

Barry's smirk faded as he saw the intensity in Rafe's eyes. Realizing that this wasn't a game anymore, but something real and sincere to Rafe, something that he would do anything to protect, Barry nodded slowly. "Crystal."

"Good," Rafe said, his tone clipped. "Now, what did you want to discuss?"

As Barry launched into business talk, Rafe's gaze wandered to the front door, which was wide open during the party.

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Moments Later

(Song:) Hold Me Back - KB

Moments later, Rafe and Barry were sitting down and drinking.

"Come on, cheers me on that right there," Barry told him.

They clinked their glasses.

Rafe cheered, whooping, drinking. "Whoo!"

Barry smirked, drinking. "It ain't a bad plan, man. That shit really did work, didn't it?"

Rafe leaned back in his seat. "What'd I say?"

"You got your girl, you got your gold," Barry listed. Rafe raised his eyebrows. "Only one real way I see our shit falling through for."

Barry took a drink.

Rafe looked in through the open front doors, glancing around. "How's that?"

"With your pops, Rafe," Barry answered. "Yeah, see, uh..."

Rafe looked at Barry, shaking his head. "What do you mean, my pops?"

Kaylee was listening from inside.

"Think about this shit, bro," Barry told him. "Your dad has confessed to killing a whole raft full of folks, ain't he?" Rafe took off his sunglasses, sitting forward. "But the only body that we have, Rafe, is Sheriff Pete." Rafe was not happy by him bringing this up, taking a drink. "And your daddy didn't kill Sheriff Pete, Rafe. You did."

Rafe shot him a glare. "Hey, we're not talking about this right now, okay?"

Barry held up his hands harmlessly. "We're good, bro. You had to save your dad. I respect that shit. And then he took the fall for you. But think about it from his perspective. Because the only thing standing between the life he used to live and the life he's living now is you, Rafe." Rafe gazed off. "I don't give a damn how religious, self-righteous you think your daddy is. Sooner or later, he's going to realize it's you or him. What do you think he's going to do? So if I were you, I'd move to get him off the battlefield before he starts squawking." Rafe was seriously thinking. "But that's just me. You do you, Country Club."

Still inside, Kaylee was listening, stunned at hearing firsthand how Barry's words could turn Rafe's mind further against his father, in a way she knew that Rafe would try and kill Ward eventually, since she knew Barry's words like this about Lia turned Rafe against his sister. She had no idea what she was going to do or what could be done - especially knowing that Rafe was already turning against Ward after his father had already driven Rafe and Lia both out of their minds, controlled Rafe all his life, and after Ward had tried to kill Lia, Sarah and Wheezie.

Rafe stood, walking toward the front door.

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Inside - Den

Kaylee heard Rafe coming and darted away before she could be caught eavesdropping, heading to the pool table that Rafe had set up for the party, drinking, acting nonchalant.

Rafe walked in, a glint in his eye as he stared Kaylee down. "Did you hear?"

Kaylee hesitated, nodding. "I did. I'm not gonna do anything. Not after everything you did to help me."

"I know that," Rafe replied.

"Though Barry clearly has no such restrictions, even after you saved his life, too," Kaylee pointed out. "You gonna let him turn you against your dad like he did with you and Lia?"

Rafe didn't answer, looking down. "What do you care? You hate my dad. You blame him for 'brainwashing me', right?"

"I do, but that doesn't mean that going after your father's the answer," Kaylee answered. "You felt bad enough for everything you did to your sisters. You really think that it'll be any better if you do something to your dad?"

Rafe raised his eyebrows slightly. "Is this your way of looking out for me like you did with Lia and Pope?"

Kaylee looked away, biting her lip, tilting her head. 'I'm just saying."

Unconvinced that was all there was to it, Rafe nodded barely, slightly amused. "Right." He walked closer. "Do the crime, do the time."

Kaylee looked at Rafe, a light quip in her tone even with a darker look in her eye. "But nothing ever sticks to you."

Rafe turned toward Kaylee, picking up a pool stick. "Yeah. I got luck on my side."

Rafe leaned down to take a shot on the pool table, sighting up his shot and taking it, sinking the 8 ball into the corner pocket as he winked up at Kaylee.

Kaylee watched curiously.

Getting an idea, Rafe stood straight, walking toward Kaylee. "Maybe you do, too."

"What's that mean?" Kaylee inquired.

Rafe pulled the 8 ball out of the corner pocket, placing it on the table, standing in front of Kaylee with the pool stick point on the floor. "Sink that 8 ball, corner pocket. You win, you tell me about your mission with the Pogues and what the hell happened."

Rafe's gaze fell to Kaylee's arm, where the wound from Fenton's knife was underneath her bandage.

Kaylee knew that he would circle back around to that, sighing heavily, looking away. "And if I lose?"

Rafe thought for a moment. "If you lose, you win."

Kaylee frowned in confusion. "Win what?"

"Tannyhill," Rafe replied, gesturing around the estate. Kaylee looked at him in disbelief. Rafe tilted his head. "For a night, at least."

Kaylee tilted her head. "You're saying I get to stay a night here."

"It's got to be a little better than that tiny cabin in the woods," Rafe replied. "And no, it's not an assumption that anything would happen between us. It's just an invitation for you to have a decent place to stay for a night after everything goes down. You could even sleep in Lia's room, or Sarah's, or Wheezie's, while I sleep in mine."

Kaylee looked at Rafe in curiosity. "You're serious?"

Rafe caught her gaze with his, smirking, shrugging. "What do you got to lose?"

Curiosity overpowering, Kaylee reached for the pool stick, but Rafe pulled it slightly out of her reach with a teasing smile, before moving it back into her reach.

Kaylee waited a moment as she looked at the pool table before taking the pool cue from Rafe, walking to the table. "Your funeral."

Rafe smirked, walking over to stand behind Kaylee, grabbing her hand with the pool cue, his other hand resting on her side.

As he leaned in, Rafe grazed his nose against the back of Kaylee's head, inhaling the scent of her hair. Kaylee closed her eyes, shivering slightly, causing Rafe to smirk.

Kaylee leaned slightly forward to sight up her shot. Rafe left his hand that was on her hand over the pool stick, lifting the hand that was on her side up to her other hand on the pool cue over the table, pressing against her.

Rafe's lips brushed against Kaylee's ear as he murmured. "Just like that."

Rafe moved Kaylee's hair off her shoulder, exposing her neck to place a gentle kiss at the base.

Kaylee's breath caught in her throat as Rafe's lips brushed her neck. She tried to focus on lining up her shot, but Rafe's proximity was making it difficult to concentrate.

"Rafe," Kaylee whispered, her voice shaky. "I can't focus with you doing that."

Rafe chuckled softly against her skin. "That's the point, firebird."

Rafe's hands slid down to her hips, pulling her back against him as he continued trailing kisses along her neck. Kaylee's eyes fluttered closed, the pool cue trembling slightly in her grasp.

"You're cheating," Kaylee accused breathlessly.

"All's fair in love and war," Rafe murmured. "And this is a little bit of both, isn't it?"

Despite her best efforts to resist, Kaylee felt herself leaning back into Rafe's chest. His warmth enveloped her, making her head spin. Or maybe that was the alcohol. Either way, she was finding it increasingly difficult to concentrate on the game.

"Take the shot," Rafe whispered, his lips brushing against her ear.

Kaylee took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. She lined up the shot as best she could with Rafe pressed against her, his lips still teasing her neck. With a quick thrust, she hit the cue ball.

Time seemed to slow as the white ball rolled across the green felt, colliding with the black 8 ball. Kaylee held her breath as it rolled towards the corner pocket.

The ball teetered on the edge for a heart-stopping moment before dropping into the pocket with a satisfying thunk.

Kaylee let out a surprised laugh.

Rafe's arms tightened around her waist as he spun her to face him. His eyes were dark with desire as he looked down at her.

"Looks like you won," Rafe murmured, his face inches from hers. "Even with me distracting you. Impressive."

Rafe's eyes showed the desire to with Kaylee, though he reigned that urge in, for now.

Kaylee bit her lip, his gaze zeroing in on the action. "Guess that means I don't have to tell you about the mission."

Rafe's eyes darkened. "No. I said you win, you tell me about it. If you lost, you got to stay here for a night. But I want to know who hurt you."

Kaylee realized that Rafe's distraction tactic hadn't been to make her lose. It was to make her forget that winning would coerce her into telling him about the mission.

Kaylee swallowed, remembering her encounter with Fenton. "It doesn't matter. It's over now."

"It matters to me," Rafe growled, taking Kaylee's injured arm in his hand gently. "Tell me who did this."

Kaylee hesitated, knowing how volatile Rafe could be. If she told him about Fenton, there was no telling what he might do. But she also knew he wouldn't let this go.

"It was Fenton," Kaylee admitted quietly. "He's alive."

Rafe's eyes darkened with rage at the mention of Fenton's name, jaw clenched. "Fenton? The guard from Barbados?" Kaylee nodded, looking down. "I thought that bastard died in the explosion."

Kaylee looked down numbly. "So did I. But apparently not. He's... different now. Burned. Scarred. Angry. Looks like the walking fucking dead. That's probably how Cian Laurent looks like too."

Rafe's grip on her tightened, his voice low and dangerous. "What did he do to you?"

Kaylee hesitated, not wanting to provoke Rafe's volatile temper. But she knew he wouldn't let this go. "He attacked us. There was a fight. He had a knife..."

Rafe's jaw clenched as he imagined Fenton attacking Kaylee, eyes flashing with rage. His hand came up to cup Kaylee's face, forcing her to meet his gaze. "I'll kill him. I'll hunt him down and finish what we started."

Kaylee scoffed softly. "He might have had a knife, but I had a fucking machete. Who do you think got more hurt in that scenario? Give you a hint. It wasn't me."

Rafe's eyes darkened with a mix of rage and pride.

"That's my girl," Rafe murmured, his thumb tracing her cheekbone.

Kaylee shivered at his touch, torn between revulsion at what she had done and a thrill of satisfaction. She hated how easily she was tapping into her darker impulses now.

"It's not something to be proud of," Kaylee whispered, averting her gaze.

Rafe tilted her chin up, forcing her to meet his intense stare. "You protected yourself. You fought back. That's exactly what you should have done. It's not something to be ashamed of."

Kaylee swallowed hard, conflicted. Part of her knew he was right - she had every right to defend herself. But another part of her was scared of how easily violence came to her now, how satisfying it had felt to strike back at Fenton. She was feeling less and less guilty and terrified of this part of herself.

She didn't want guilt and fear to define her anymore. She was coming to realize that she couldn't deny that the darkness was apart of her, and she had to accept it, for good and bad. Especially when she could use it to protect herself and her loved ones, just like she did today against Fenton, against the Laurents before. Rafe was right about that before. She didn't have to keep punishing herself and blaming herself for using that darkness to protect herself and those around her.

Kaylee took a deep breath, grounding herself in the moment. Rafe's intensity radiated through the space between them, a magnetic pull that made her heart race.

"Maybe you're right," Kaylee finally admitted, meeting his gaze with newfound resolve. "I can't let fear and guilt dictate my actions anymore."

Rafe's expression softened, his thumb brushing over her cheekbone as he studied her face. "I know it's hard, Kaylee. But you can't let their darkness dim your light. You're stronger than you realize." His voice dropped lower, a conspiratorial whisper. "And I think you might just be getting started."

The words made Kaylee's heart race with a mixture of excitement and apprehension, stirring something deep and powerful. Kaylee felt a shift within her - a sense of liberation, an acceptance of who she was becoming. The darkness no longer scared her; it was just another tool in her arsenal for survival.

She had been fighting for so long to prove herself, to show that she was more than just the girl who ran from her problems. But embracing this darker side of herself felt like walking a tightrope - one misstep could send her tumbling into an abyss she wasn't sure she could climb out of.

But with the Pogues, with Gael and Esme... even Rafe... she was sure that she didn't have to worry about that problem.

Kaylee took a deep breath, grateful for the belief Rafe held in her - that he had always seemed to have in her despite the lack of belief he had had in himself before. "Thank you."

Rafe smirked playfully as he stepped back slightly, regaining some distance while keeping the playful banter alive. "Always, firebird."

Kaylee was relieved for the distance, how Rafe seemed to pick up the cues that she needed the distance between them, but that playful banter that stayed alive. "I should go. Get ready for the party tonight."

Rafe nodded understandingly. "I'll see you then."

Kaylee chuckled. "Alright."

Kaylee walked past Rafe toward the front door.

Rafe turned after Kaylee, calling after her sarcastically. "Best behavior then?"

Kaylee turned back to face Rafe. "I'm sure as hell not going to be on best behavior, so surprise me."

Rafe smiled proudly as he watched Kaylee walk out of the house, shaking his head in admiration.

⚓️

Heywards' Shop

Heyward and Cleo were working in the shop.

"You know something, Mr. Heyward?" Cleo asked. "I have this jerk shrimp recipe that'll have people lining up out the door."

"I like that," Heyward told her.

Cleo smiled. "I like it." Pope walked up to them, his backpack on. "Hey, where you headed to, killer man?"

"School," Pope answered. "On a Saturday. Sucks, but I got no choice."

Pope walked closer.

"Who needs school when you have that El Dorado gold making up for your scholarship?" Cleo asked.

"Yeah, I don't have it yet," Pope pointed out. "But... hey, thanks for last night."

The two locked gazes with soft smiles.

"You know I got your back," Cleo said. "Keep your head up, Pope. You're a Heyward. You hear me?" Pope turned around, walking away. Cleo called after him teasingly. "Now, I want straight A's this semester." Pope couldn't help a smile as he continued walking away. Cleo grinned, turning to Heyward. "I think we raising him right. What you think?"

"I think we raising him right too, Cleo," Heyward replied.

Cleo laughed.

⚓️

Kildare High School - Classroom

Pope was sitting in class, writing notes.

The teacher was giving a speech, drawing on the chalkboard. "Okey dokey, if you just follow along with me. So we have a normal triangle here, and every triangle has three medians." Pope drew a triangle in his notebook. "What's a median? A median is basically a line that goes from one vortex to the midpoint opposite that vertex. And since the triangle has three vertices..."

Pope got distracted, lost in his own thoughts, drawing gold bars at the top point of the triangle, labeling it El Dorado. He drew a cross at the bottom right point of the triangle, labeling it the cross. He drew what resembled a ship at the bottom left point of the triangle, labeling it Royal Merchant. As the teacher continued his speech, Pope drew lines from each point of the triangle going into the center of the triangle, labeling it as Denmark Tanny.

⚓️

Esme's Cabin - Outside

While taking shelter at Esme's shelter, Isa, Kaylee, Lia, Kie, Pope, Sarah, Wheezie and Elyna were getting ready for tonight's festivities at Mike and Anna's anniversary party.

Pope and Lia were helping Isa, Kaylee and Kie put better bandages over their wounds from their earlier mission.

"Jesus, you guys need to stop getting hurt," Pope remarked, giving Lia and Wheezie a pointed look as well.

"Hey, I didn't get hurt this time," Lia replied.

"And I didn't even go on the mission," Wheezie added.

Sarah tilted her head at her sisters in slight amusement, looking at Isa, Kaylee and Kie. "Are you guys okay?"

"We're fine," Isa answered. "Nothing compared to what we've been through before."

The others frowned, knowing that was true.

Kie looked at Pope and Lia. "Thank you."

Pope and Lia nodded in return.

Kaylee looked at Lia, Sarah and Wheezie. "I just needed to tell you. At Rafe's, I heard that Ward's back. He already came looking for your brother, so he might come looking for you three, too."

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie were nervous with the thought that their father, who tried to kill them the last time they saw him, was back on the island and could try to come talk to them. They had no idea if he would be looking to hurt them or if he would be looking for forgiveness and amends.

Isa, Kaylee, Kie, Pope and Elyna looked at them in concern.

"Are you okay?" Elyna asked in concern.

"Not really," Wheezie answered. "We just need to make sure that we'll be fine if he does come looking for us."

Elyna looked toward the other room of the cabin, where Gael and Esme were talking. "Well, my mom and dad are going to the party with us tonight since it's Uncle Mike and Anna's anniversary party. If your dad comes looking for you, stay close to my mom."

"With Esme working at Interpol, she can protect you far better than any cop on the island," Kie agreed. "And Uncle Gael can easily overpower your dad with anything he tries to do."

"Are you sure?" Sarah asked timidly. "We don't want to intrude."

"You wouldn't be intruding if we ask," Kaylee pointed out. She called over to her uncle and aunt in the other room. "Uncle Gael? Esme?"

Gael and Esme walked into the room.

"What's going on, kids?" Gael asked.

"Lia, Sarah, Wheezie and Rafe's father, Ward Cameron, is back on the island," Isa explained. "He faked his death awhile ago to get out of trouble for the supposed murder of my and John B's father, back when we all thought our dad died, and a lot of other people that he actually killed. But he actually tried to kill Lia, Sarah and Wheezie."

"And he's already come back to talk to Rafe," Lia added. "It's only a matter of time before he comes back for me, Sarah and Wheezie, and we have no idea if he's going to hurt us or not."

"So they need protection, but a chance to confront him since the last time they saw him, he tried to kill them," Pope finished. "He tried to strangle Sarah, and he had the captain of the Coastal Venture try to stab Lia in the heart and try to stab Wheezie in the stomach, but Isa and Kie saved them."

"Mom, we were hoping that you could stand by as a threat or warning that you could arrest him if he tried anything," Elyna explained. "And Dad could take him down if he so much made a move on Wheezie, Lia and Sarah."

Esme's expression turned serious as she listened intently, nodding slowly. "Of course. If Ward shows up, I won't hesitate to intervene. You three have been through enough already, and he's not getting away with anything this time."

Gael crossed his arms, a protective look in his eyes. "If he lays a finger on any of you, he'll regret it. Trust me, he won't know what hit him."

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie lit up with gratitude and hope amidst the anxiety swirling within them.

Wheezie smiled softly. "Thank you, Esme. Thank you, Gael. It means a lot to know we have you both looking out for us."

"The only two good parents looking out for any of the Pogues," Lia agreed.

"That's for damn sure," Kaylee remarked. "The only other good parents are Pope's parents, even if they don't actively look out for the Pogues, except for giving Cleo a place to stay."

The other kids smiled slightly in agreement.

Gael and Esme smiled softly.

"We don't want any trouble," Sarah admitted. "But with our father back in the picture..."

Isa and Kie stepped closer to Lia and Wheezie, linking their arms with Lia and taking Wheezie's hands.

"You're not alone in this," Kie assured, looking at Isa pointedly as well to reassure her about her missing father. "We won't let anything happen to you."

Isa swallowed, nodding. "We'll stick together no matter what happens tonight, okay? If Ward shows up, we'll have your backs. No matter what he tries."

Isa and Kie smiled softly at Sarah, who smiled emotionally in return, resting her hands on Lia and Wheezie's shoulders.

"Exactly," Pope agreed. "No one gets left behind."

Gael and Esme watched the kids, moved by how they all got through this together.

Elyna excitedly moved forward to sweep Kaylee and Kie away. "And now, my dear cousins, is time to get you and everyone else ready for your parents' anniversary party. That means it's my specialty time. You know that I'm good at choosing outfits and costumes. And I have something special in mind for all us girls."

Elyna waved for Isa, Lia, Sarah and Wheezie to follow, all of whom had an amused smile as they did.

Pope had a bemused smile as he walked over.

"As long as my outfit for tonight screams revenge," Kaylee stated. "That's all I care about. After Dad pulls everything he did the last few days and after everything he's done... and yeah."

Wheezie frowned. "What did he do?"

Kie shared a look with Kaylee. "We'll tell you guys later."

"Okay," Sarah agreed.

Elyna pointed at Kaylee with a wicked grin. "Revenge is the name. I got you."

Esme and Gael watched them with a fond smile.

Gael crossed his arms with a smirk. "This should be good."

Esme smiled as she watched Esme bond with her cousins and their friends. "I'm just glad Elyna has this finally."

"What's that?" Gael asked.

"Actual friends," Esme answered.

Gael smiled softly. "Me too."

Elyna went through the process of piecing together outfits for the party for Isa, Kaylee, Lia, Kie, Sarah and Wheezie while Pope watched in cautious amusement.

"You really are good at this, Elyna," Pope remarked.

"She is," Isa agreed, looking down. "Though I'm not sure I should be doing this. With Dad out there, kidnapped by Singh."

Lia turned to Isa in concern. "Isa, it's okay. There's nothing you can do to help your dad until after we pull off the plane heist tomorrow anyway. We need a way to find another plane to get us down to South America, and we won't be able to do that until tomorrow or the day after."

"Exactly," Kie agreed. "There's no rule against you taking tonight off and letting go of all the worries for one night. Besides, I need both my girlfriends there for my backup if I'm going to face my parents after everything they've done."

Isa and Lia smiled softly at Kie at that, taking Kie by the hands.

"I can't say no when you put it like that," Isa said softly.

Elyna clapped her hands together, excitement bubbling over. "Perfect! Now let's get you all glammed up for the party! We'll make sure you shine brighter than the diamond on a Kook's yacht."

Kaylee lit up, her spirits lifting at Elyna's enthusiasm. "Oh, that reminds me. When I was at Rafe's party earlier, he took me on the balcony on his 'VIP section'. It was totally worth it to see the dumbfounded shock on Topper and Kelce's faces."

Kaylee took out her phone to show the pictures she took of Topper and Kelce's faces to the others. Everyone started to laugh at their expressions.

"Oh, please tell me that you took them down a peg again," Wheezie told her.

"When does Kaylee ever not take them down a peg?" Lia replied.

Everyone burst into laughter again.

Lia and Wheezie both glanced at Sarah given that Sarah had been hanging out with Topper and Kelce the day before - and kissed Topper the night before, while cheating on John B.

Sarah pressed her lips together in guilt, hoping to change the subject. "As long as there's no Kook drama tonight, I'm all in."

"Cleo and I might not be at the party tonight," Pope admitted. "But you girls make tonight about you guys. About the Pogues and the family we've built together."

"Exactly!" Wheezie chimed in, her eyes sparkling. "It's a celebration, after all!"

With a newfound sense of determination, Isa straightened up and surveyed the outfits Elyna had laid out. "Alright, let's do this. If we're going to face Mike and Anna and Kooks tonight, we might as well do it looking fierce."

Elyna clapped her hands excitedly. "That's the spirit! I've got just the looks in mind for all of you. Let's start with colors that scream confidence."

Pope chuckled. "I'll step out and let you girls have your fun. But I need to talk to Lia when your done."

Lia gave Pope a thumbs up. "You got it, Pope."

Pope walked away to give the girls their time.

Elyna picked up a diamond chain dress with a slight plunge and a daring slit, handing it to Kaylee. "I believe this is the revenge statement you were asking for. Definitely not something you should wear to your parents' anniversary party, but all eyes will be on you. Making sure you shine brighter than any other diamond out there."

Kaylee grinned, taking hold of the outfit. "I love it. This is definitely going to catch their attention, one way or another."

Kie raised her eyebrows in amusement. "Exactly what I was thinking. They're going to kill you."

Kaylee shrugged carelessly.

Elyna beamed, going on. "And for you, Wheezie, how about a dark green that contrasts those fiery eyes of yours?"

Wheezie blushed slightly at Elyna's remark about her eyes as the two girls gazed at each other for a moment.

Isa, Kaylee, Kie, Lia and Sarah smiled knowingly.

Wheezie grinned as she picked up a sparkling dark green dress that caught the light just right. "Perfect. I want to make an impression tonight."

As Kaylee and Wheezie began sorting through accessories, Elyna began helping Isa, Kie, Lia and Sarah picking their outfits for tonight's party.

As Elyna sifted through the choices of dresses, her eyes landed on a stunning deep blue dress with delicate lace detailing, yet it was simple enough that a Pogue would enjoy it. She held it up for Isa to see. "This one is perfect for you. It'll make your eyes pop and give off that simple but regal vibe. Perfect for the Pogue princess.'

Isa's eyes widened, her heart racing as the thought of wearing something so bold. "Really?"

"Absolutely," Elyna assured. "You deserve to feel like royalty tonight. I know that Mike and Anna made you feel like you were nothing, but you stood up to them, for Kaylee and Kie, and for JJ and Lia and for yourself. This is your chance to prove them wrong about you, about everyone. Plus, it matches the aura of confidence you've been radiating since you started scheming against those Kooks. And it could really help take your mind off of everything for tonight."

Isa chuckled, enjoying the way Elyna helped ease her tension and anxiety in a way that comforted her as if they had been friends for years rather than days. It was as if the days they had been childhood friends through Kaylee had stretched on as if Elyna had never left the Outer Banks at all - as if she truly had returned to a place in the Pogues that had been waiting for her all along.

Isa took the dress from Elyna's hands. "Okay, let's do it."

Elyna grinned, wrapping an arm around Isa's shoulders. "Don't worry, Isa. You've got this."

Isa nodded in agreement.

Meanwhile, Kie and Lia were rifling through a selection of outfits, arguing playfully over what would work best for both of them.

"Okay, how about this?" Kie suggest, holding up a flirty black dress adorned with intricate golden embroidery, passing it onto Lia.

Lia took the dress to look at it more closely. When she did, she saw that it had thin straps, along with two halter straps crossing over the chest and wrapping around the neck, studded with gold.

Lia's eyes widened in delight. "I love it! It's perfect!"

Elyna grinned. "And it'll definitely turn heads while still keeping that touch of elegance."

Next, Elyna turned to Sarah. "For you, I'm thinking something fun and sassy to match your vibrant personality." She emerged with a playful yellow sundress that flowed beautifully, with a plunge neckline. "It's bright enough to make you feel like a ray of sunshine, but chic enough to stand out among the Kooks."

Sarah clapped her hands together in glee. "Oh, my God, yes! I can't wait to try it on!"

Elyna smiled as she handed the dress to Sarah and turned to her cousin. "And last but not least, Kie."

"Hit me with your best shot," Kie replied excitedly.

Elyna picked up a stunning deep red dress that hugged the curves just right, adorned with lace detailing and a daring slit that added a touch of boldness. "This one is fiery and fierce. You'll make a statement without saying a word."

"That's more Kaylee's speed," Kie pointed out, looking over to Kaylee.

Kaylee was standing at the mirror, to take in the sight of her diamond chain dress, looking back at the red dress Elyna picked out for Kie.

Kaylee shook her head. "Nah, I already did the red dress thing in Barbados. I'll pass on that, thanks."

The other girls laughed lightly.

Kie's eyes lit up as she took the red dress into her hands, instantly feeling the fabric's quality. "Either way, this is amazing. I love it."

Wheezie was looking at her sparkling dark green dress as she looked at Elyna. "What about you, Elyna? What will you be wearing?"

Elyna grinned. "That's the best part, Wheezie. I'm always up for a party and always part of the best-dressed list. We'll all be turning heads, trust me. We'll have everyone at the party wondering who we are."

Elyna turned to pick her outfit to show the other girls.

Elyna finally found a vibrant ensemble that caught her eye - an elegant emerald green jumpsuit with intricate gold detailing along the sleeves, hugging her figure perfectly. With a twirl, she held it up for everyone to see. "Ta-da! Just wait until you see this on. Bold and classy, just like me!"

The girls erupted into laughter and cheers, their spirits lifting as they admired each other's outfits.

"That's perfect for you, Elyna," Kaylee complimented.

Kie nodded vigorously in agreement.

Wheezie chuckled as she ducked her head, the slight blush in her cheeks telling them that she agreed with the Carrera sisters' assessment for their cousin.

Elyna smiled in return, her eyes flitting between her cousins before landing on Wheezie for a moment.

"Okay, let's get these dresses on!" Sarah exclaimed, leading the charge toward the bedrooms to change.

The energy in the cabin shifted entirely; excitement filled the air as they transformed from the tremors of anxiety to a festivity that felt alive.

As they changed, snippets of conversation floated through the air from the separate bedrooms. Kaylee, Kie and Elyna joked about how Kaylee could outshine any Kook in her diamond chain dress.

Isa peeked into the mirror after slipping into her deep blue dress. "Wow. I've never felt like this before."

Isa admired her reflection, feeling confident and ready to take on the night.

Lia wrapped her arms around Isa and Kie. "You both look fierce. We all do."

Isa and Kie returned the gesture as they wrapped their arms around Lia, and each other, the three lovers holding each other close and leaning their heads together, drawing strength from each other.

Little kitten Indy ran up to the girls after they finished getting dressed, pawing at Isa, Lia and Kie in turn.

Indy darted between their legs, her tiny paws dancing across the floor as she let out an excited mewl. The girls giggled at the kitten's antics, and Isa knelt down to scoop Indy into her arms.

"Look at you, little diva," Isa cooed, cradling the kitten against her chest. "Even you know it's a special night."

Indy purred loudly, seemingly unfazed by the flurry of activity around her. With a gentle scratch behind her ears from Lia and Kie, she settled comfortably in Isa's embrace, a small bundle of warmth amidst the chaos.

Wheezie rushed over to pet Indy with a squeal, her eyes sparkling with affection as Indy purred loudly. "Look at this little cutie, trying to steal the spotlight."

Elyna chuckled, reaching out to scratch Indy behind the ears. "She's definitely the star of the show."

Sarah and Kaylee grinned as they walked over to pet Indy as well.

"Our little light, aren't you, Indy?" Sarah cooed.

The girls smiled as they walked into the living area, here Pope was waiting patiently as he said he would be.

The girls showcased their outfits teasingly but modestly.

"What do you think?" Kaylee asked, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

Pope stared in disbelief and admiration, clapping. "Amazing. You look ready to take on any Kook who dares to get in your way."

Lia grinned. "That's the idea."

Laughter filled the air, easing any lingering tension. The atmosphere was electric with excitement - each girl ready to embrace the night ahead.

"We're definitely going to steal the show," Sarah teased.

Wheezie winked, tossing her hair back confidently. "Just wait until we throw in some attitude with these outfits. Topper and Kelce won't know what hit them."

Elyna winked at Wheezie. "That's what I'm talking about."

They all laughed.

"Well, I wish you guys good luck," Pope told them. "I have to get back to my dad's shop. Cleo's holding down the fort until I get back."

"Wait," Sarah told him. "I thought you had something you wanted to ask Lia."

Pope nodded in remembrance. "Right, right. Denmark Tanny. Did he ever write about the exact origins of his wealth in the diary? You said that El Dorado was mentioned in the diary, right?"

"Yeah, but in his language, and Kalinago, which I couldn't translate," Lia answered.

"Right," Pope agreed. 

"But I do know that he was on the ship with the priest who was the last living person to see the origins of all the gold," Lia explained.

"What does it matter?" Kaylee asked.

"If I find something that can help us get to El Dorado, maybe it might help Isa and John B save their dad," Pope answered.

Isa lit up with hope upon hearing this. "Really?"

Pope nodded, reaching out to take Isa's hand. "I'll work on this lead, Isa. You girls take the night off. You got hurt, you deserve the night off."

Isa sighed in relief, giving him  a sight smile. "Thank you, Pope."

Pope smiled in return. Kie, Lia, Kaylee, Wheezie, Sarah and Elyna smiled softly at them, all filled with hope.

"Yeah, yeah, that could work," Kie stated.

"Well, there's nothing more in the diary that could help with this," Lia pointed out. "But given your heritage, Pope, I assumed you've scoured your own family archives. To maybe see something there that's not in the diary."

Pope looked surprised, sheepish and a bit embarrassed that he didn't think of that. "Yeah, I mean, that's like the first thing I did."

The girls weren't convinced.

"Yeah, your face says otherwise," Wheezie said.

Lia smiled. "Genius Pope Heyward didn't think of it, but I did? I'm flattered."

Pope gave Lia and Wheezie a sarcastic look in return. "Hilarious."

Lia and Wheezie smirked.

Isa, Kaylee and Elyna smiled.

Kie and Sarah chuckled.

"This could work," Sarah agreed. "Okay."

"Thanks, Lia," Pope told her.

Lia and Pope did the Pogue handshake, sharing a hug before pulling away as Lia gave him a smile. Pope returned the smile.

"You said a priest, right?" Pope asked.

"Yeah," Lia answered. "Keep an eye out for that."

"Absolutely," Pope agreed. "Thanks." He looked from Lia to Sarah and Wheezie. "You three are gonna be fine. Just stay close to the girls and Gael and Esme. They'll have your backs."

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie nodded in agreement.

"Thanks, Pope," Wheezie told him.

Pope did the Pogue handshake with Sarah and Wheezie and shared an embrace with them both.

Pope turned to Isa, knowing how worried she was about her father. "Cleo and I'll go through my family archives tonight. You just deal with the party tonight and we'll handle the rest."

"I should be doing more," Isa said.

"You already dealt with a mission that you almost got killed on today alone, after you almost got killed yesterday," Pope retorted. "You've done enough, Isa. Take the night off. Heal. I can handle the archives."

Isa gave in with a sigh and a nod. "Okay."

Pope and Isa did the Pogue handshake before embracing.

"We'll get him back," Pope promised.

Isa closed her eyes. "I hope so."

They pulled away.

Pope turned to do the Pogue handshake with Kaylee and Kie. "Take care of our girls."

"Always," Kaylee replied

"Forever," Kie agreed.

"Good luck tonight with your parents," Pope added.

"We'll need it," Kaylee said.

Pope, Kaylee and Kie hugged, pulling away.

Lastly, Pope turned to Elyna, who was holding Indy, cradling the kitten to her chest.

Elyna flashed a teasing smile. "You gonna teach me the club handshake?"

Pope smiled. "I'm sure Kaylee and Kie will teach you that in time. I'll keep it at this for now. Make sure they're safe, please?"

Elyna nodded fiercely in agreement. "I won't let anything hurt them. If Ward tries to come after Wheezie, Lia and Sarah, he'll have me and my parents to deal with. If the Kooks try to fuck with any of us, they have a rude awakening coming. And so do anyone else."

Pope grinned, feeling a surge of confidence from Elyna's fierce words. "That's what I like to hear."

Elyna glanced down at Indy, who had curled up in her arms, purring contentedly. "That would've been way more fiercer if I wasn't holding a kitten."

Kaylee grinned. "It was fierce enough."

Wheezie smiled. "You gave me the chills."

Everyone laughed.

Pope smiled, reaching forward to pet Indy, scratching behind her ears, who purred loudly in contentment in response. "I'll see you later, Indy."

Elyna looked up, her eyes sparkling with determination. "I may be new to this crew, but I'll fight tooth and nail for my family. Just like you all have each other's backs."

They all smiled, enjoying the union, friendship and family they had together.

Kie patted Pope on the shoulder. "Now, off with you before you make us miss the party. We'll catch up with you, Cleo and the other boys later and have our own Pogues' debriefing session."

"Good idea," Pope replied as he headed toward the door, disappearing into the cool evening air.

The moment the door clicked shut behind him, excitement surged through the room again.

Kaylee turned to the other girls. "Okay, time to finish getting ready. Tonight is about celebrating us and sending a message to everyone - Kook or Pogue..." She looked at Kie specifically. "Including our parents Mike and Anna Carrera - that we're not backing down."

Gael and Esme walked into the room - arm in arm - from one of the bedrooms, after having just finished getting ready themselves.

"That sounds about right to me," Esme said in amusement.

The young girls turned to look at Gael and Esme, taking in the sight of the married couple in their party outfits.

Esme wore a stunning sapphire blue dress that hugged her figure perfectly, while Gael sported a well-fitted navy suit that accentuated his broad shoulders. The couple exuded an air of elegance and sophistication, clearly ready for a night of celebration.

"We clean up well, don't we?" Gael said with a charming smile, adjusting the cuffs of his shirt as he glanced in the mirror before them.

"Absolutely," Kie beamed. "You two look amazing. Like the power couple you are."

Esme chuckled and glanced around at the girls, noticing their excitement. "And you all look absolutely fierce! I can already tell this party is going to be something special, even if it is Mike and Anna's."

"Well, it won't be Mike and Anna that make it special," Gael replied, rolling his eyes at the mention of his brother and sister-in-law. "It'll be these girls and the two of us, Esme."

Esme smiled in return.

"Thank you!" Wheezie exclaimed with a playful twirl in her sparkling green dress, making Indy squirm slightly in Elyna's arms.

Elyna smiled at the sight of Wheezie having so much fun, confident in the way she looked.

"Just wait until you see the Kooks' faces tonight," Lia said with a smirk. "We're about to steal the show."

Isa clapped her hands together with a wicked smirk. "Okay. So if we're all ready, let's go show everyone what we're made of."

Sarah chuckled. "Let's."

Kaylee winked mischievously as she waved an arm toward the door. "After you."

⚓️

Marina

While on the way to the Wreck for the anniversary party, Lia, Sarah and Wheezie stayed close to Isa, Kaylee, Kie, Elyna, Gael and Esme as they walked along the dock, always weary of whether or not their father Ward was nearby.

Part of them wanted nothing to do with Ward - after he tried to kill them, they wanted him to be as far away from them as possible.

Yet, the larger part of them wanted Ward here, so that they could finally confront their father for what he did to them. For the pain, anger and agony that their father put them through the last time they saw him that day on the Coastal Venture. They wanted to make him feel their pain. And with their loved ones here, with Gael and Esme here, they knew that Ward would not be able to hurt them ever again. They would be protected.

So when they saw the first signs that Ward might be following them, they weren't scared. They thought that they might finally have their chance to confront their father.

"Guys," Wheezie said softly. "I think that's Dad."

The others looked back.

"Are you sure?" Isa asked softly.

"Yeah," Sarah answered. "But he won't come out until we're alone, and out of sight of everyone else. Everyone else on the island thinks he's dead."

"Are you okay being alone?" Kaylee asked.

"We have to do this on our own," Lia answered. "But can you stay close, please?"

"Of course," Kie answered.

Elyna nodded in agreement. "We'll be right here."

"Just call out if you need us," Esme assured. "We'll be right there."

"I can handle anything he tries to do before he does it," Gael stated. "He won't be able to hurt you again. And Esme can have him locked away before he knows it."

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie smiled at each of them in appreciation, relieved to have them looking out for them. They walked away through the marina until they reached an alley between buildings, remaining close to their loved ones, but out of sight from the rest of the island.

A perfect place for Ward to reveal himself to his daughters.

Just as the trio of sisters stepped into the shadowy alley, a shiver of anticipation swept through them. The air was thick with unresolved tension, and for a moment, the sound of the bustling party faded into the background.

"Stay strong, you guys," Wheezie whispered, her voice barely audible over the soft lapping of water against the dock.

Lia's heart raced as they moved deeper into the alley, scanning the dimly lit corners for any sign of their father.

"If he shows up, we stand our ground," Lia said firmly, despite the nervous flutter in her stomach.

"Together," Sarah added, squeezing Wheezie's hand tightly.

The emotional bond between the sisters felt like an unbreakable tether, anchoring them amidst their chaos.

As if on cue, a shadow flickered at the far end of the alley. The figure stepped into view, and there he was - Ward Cameron, his face a blend of feigned innocence and paternal concern. The flickering streetlight cast a harsh glow on his face, revealing a mixture of weariness and determination. In his hand, he wielded his cane he needed in order to aid in his walking after the events of the Coastal Venture.

Ward was calm, speaking with practiced ease, hoping to keep his daughters calm as well as he greeted his daughters. "Lia. Sarah. Wheezie. I needed to see you. I just needed to tell you I'm sorry, because I am so--"

Ward attempted to step closer toward his daughters.

Sarah put up a hand defensively. "No, you stay right there!"

Ward froze and hung his head, resigned with a heavy sigh.

Sarah's voice was breaking even as she was speaking furiously. "Do you know how stupid this is? If anybody sees you, you go to jail! If we yell and the cops come, you go to jail!"

Ward regarded them carefully, expression still relaxed. "I don't think you're gonna do that."

Lia laughed mockingly, nodding sarcastically. "Yeah, because it's like you know us so well."

Wheezie raised a brow, walking toward the opening of the alley as she glared over at Ward. "Try us."

Sarah and Lia followed Wheezie step by step, making sure she was protected from their father, glaring at him as they forced him to circle around the alley and away from their sister as they neared the opening of the alley.

Ward glanced out of the opening of the alley. "What?"

Wheezie leaned against the alley wall with her arms crossed over her chest. "You see our friends over there? Kaylee and Kie's cousin, Elyna Maverick? She and her father Gael are career criminals. But her mother, Esme? She's an agent at Interpol."

Ward's eyes widened at this information, filled with worry about what this could mean for him.

"Which means that Esme has more power than any police officer on this island," Lia warned. "And Gael will ruin you before you make a move against us. He and Elyna both will. I could yell. I might. We all might. So whatever it is you're here for, I suggest you hurry the fuck up and you don't piss us off."

Ward shook his head dolefully. "So angry. So much hatred."

With that, Sarah felt like she shattered, as her stubborn strength seemed to fade as she started to cry. "Because we're homeless. We have no money! We have no family anymore! Everything that happened with Lia and Rafe losing their minds... it's all because of you!"

Ward looked between his daughters in guilt. "I know."

Wheezie had tears in her eyes that she desperately fought back, feeling as if she was seconds away from breathing, pushing away from the alley wall. "You strangled Sarah with your bare hands. You ordered Eberhini to stab Lia in the heart. I had to push him to save her life."

Lia put a hand to her shoulder, which was still healing. "And yet, I still got stabbed, here. This is because of you. The only reason I'm alive is because of Wheezie."

"And the only reason why I'm alive is because of Isa and Kie," Wheezie added. "And because of Lia. They all saved my life. Lia nearly killed Eberhini to save me. And the only reason why Sarah is standing here is because John B stopped you from strangling her. And you tried to have Isa, Kie and John B killed with us because they saved our lives. Because they were saving us from you!"

Ward raised his hands in a placating gesture, trying to keep his voice calm. "I know. Girls, I know everything I did, everything that happened. All of it. It's my fault. I know. I don't know how I'll make up for it, or if I even can, but I'll try. I'm gonna do what I can."

Sarah looked up, drying her eyes with her fingers. Good luck."

Wheezie stepped forward, her voice steady but filled with an undercurrent of rage. "You made your choices, Dad. You chose power over family, deception over honesty. You think we would just forgive you because you're sorry? Look at us! Look at what you've done!"

Sarah shook her head. "You can't just pretend everything's okay now that you're back. We were scared for our lives! We still are!"

"You could have protected us when it mattered," Lia told him. "Instead, you decided to kill us."

"All I wanted was to keep you safe from the world," Ward insisted, desperation creeping into his tone. "I thought... I thought if I controlled things, if I had power--"

"You thought wrong!" Lia spat in rage, her tears now flowing freely. "You don't get to decide what safety looks like for us! We're not your pawns in some sick game! And you don't know everything like you think you do."

"What are you talking about?" Ward asked.

"Do you know what happened last night?" Lia questioned. "Do you know what I did? What I almost..."

Ward frowned, clearly not knowing since he had just gotten to town that morning.

Sarah and Wheezie both placed a hand on Lia's shoulders to ease her rage before she could lose control.

Lia took a deep breath. "Barry turned Robbie's old house into a drug den knowing I would end up there one day. He set it up as a trap, knowing that seeing what he did to Robbie's house, after he had gotten clean, after he killed him and everything since, it would set me off."

Concern and worry crossed Ward's features. "Did he..."

"He didn't hurt me, not as much as he wanted," Lia answered. "I didn't give him the fucking chance. I drugged him. Like he did to me. Fentanyl."

Ward looked at Lia in shock.

Lia swallowed. "I lost it so much that I almost killed him. And if it wasn't for Wheezie, Rafe, Kie, Kaylee, JJ and Elyna, I would have. Because that's how far you, Rose and Barry drove me out of my fucking mind."

Ward closed his eyes worriedly in guilt. "What... happened?"

"We burned the house down with the Molotov cocktails Lia made and everyone left," Wheezie answered.

"But if it wasn't for Wheezie, Rafe, Kie, Kaylee, JJ and Elyna, what do you think would've happened, huh?" Sarah asked. "You think you could've swept this under the rug like you did with Rafe and Peterkin? Or would've it still ruined Lia's life?"

Lia glared at Ward with tears in her eyes, close to breaking down. "And all of that is because of you. Because you didn't do something to stop Barry before."

"You could've stopped Barry before everything he did, including using Rafe's madness against him," Wheezie agreed. "So many people got hurt because you let him get away with everything, including Lia and Sarah and all of our friends. And that was long before you almost killed us yourself."

"And apologies aren't gonna do anything to fix the damage that you did," Sarah told him.

"But Rafe..." Lia trailed off. "He gave me the medicine, the right kind, that you and Rose got me on the ship. The one that was actually helping."

"I was wondering where those went," Ward admitted. "I'm glad... that he stopped you. Helped you."

"Rafe's been helping us with a lot of things lately," Wheezie admitted. "He even helped save our lives when we came home."

"Kaylee, Isa, Lia and Wheezie were dealing with infections from their wounds from the ship, because of you and Eberhini and Macias," Sarah explained. "They suffered fevers and necrotic wounds for a month and almost died. And Rafe sent Dr. Lawson to save their lives."

Ward's face went white after hearing this, realizing that even after the events on the ship, his actions could have killed Lia and Wheezie in a horrifying, drawn out and torturous way, not just for them, but for Isa as well. It dawned on him then why they were reacting the way they were, lashing out at him and trying to make him feel every ounce of pain that he made them feel.

Struggling to process all of this, Ward hesitated. "I know you won't believe me, but I'm trying to make amends. I'm trying to live my life a different way."

Lia scoffed softly. "Yeah, how long is that gonna last?"

Ward opened his mouth to respond before he was cut off by Sarah.

Sarah sighed. "Yeah, you want to make amends? You give the gold back to the Pogues. After everything you and Rafe did to them, you owe them at least that. Rafe's trying to make things up his own way by helping Kaylee, Lia, Wheezie and Isa with the doctor, and helping clear Kaylee's name. And now helping Kaylee, Lia, Wheezie, Kie, Elyna, Gael and Esme against the Laurents."

Ward blinked several times, then smiled sadly. "We can talk about that. We can. They certainly deserve some of it."

Wheezie scoffed. "Let's talk about it? You mean after they found it first and you stole it from them?"

Ward held up a placating hand toward Wheezie. "Right now, I'm here for the three of you."

"You came here about Rafe," Sarah accused. "Not us."

Ward shook his head. "Yes and no. I came for all four of you." He took out a key card for a condo and three credit cards from his pockets. "This is for you. This is for one of Rose's condo projects, and this is some money for the three of you. Got all the money you'll need on it." He placed the cards on a brick nearby, knowing that they didn't want him near them. "I'll just... I know you're not gonna forgive me. How could you? I just want you to know that I love you. And that I'm sorry."

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie merely stared down Ward with glassy eyes filled with tears, rage and betrayal.

Ward walked slowly toward the exit of the alley. He hesitated at the opening before looking at his daughters one last time. "Bless you, babies."

Ward placed his hat on his head to shield his identity, walking out of the alley, leaving his daughters alone.

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie watched him leave with shuddering breaths.

Sarah tilted her head back against the brick wall behind her, closing her eyes, trying to compose herself.

Lia was close to tears from anger and betrayal and devastation, turning to Sarah and Wheezie.

Wheezie started to cry again, barely able to hold herself together, wrapping her arms around herself to keep herself from falling apart.

Without a word as the sisters looked at each other, they knew they needed each other.

Sarah pushed away from the wall, pulling Lia and Wheezie into her arms. The sisters held each other tightly and comfortingly.

As they held each other, the gravity of what had just transpired began to settle around them like an oppressive fog. The warmth of their embrace provided a comforting contrast to the cold reality that lingered in their hearts.

"I can't believe he just walked away," Wheezie whispered, her voice muffled against Sarah's shoulder. "Like it was nothing."

Lia pulled back slightly, looking into Wheezie's tear-filled eyes. "It's not nothing. He thinks he can just make everything better with money and empty apologies."

Sarah wiped her own tears away, her heart aching for both of her sisters. "But it doesn't work that way. We can't forget what he did... what we went through."

Wheezie nodded, her small frame shaking with unspent emotion. "I want to scream. I want him to feel what we felt."

"He will," Lia said fiercely, clenching her fists at her sides. "One way or another, we'll make him feel it."

Sarah's voice was trembling but resolute. "We can't let him back in... not after everything he's done."

Wheezie nodded fervently, wiping her tears with the back of her hand. "No more chances. Not anymore." Her anger flared momentarily, igniting a fire within her that was hard to ignore. "He doesn't get to come back and pretend like he hasn't destroyed us."

Lia clenched her jaw, fighting back the tears as fresh memories of Ward, Barry and all they had taken from her surged back - her sense of safety, her faith in family, her very sanity. "We're stronger without him."

Wheezie and Sarah nodded in agreement.

Lia swallowed, taking Sarah and Wheezie by their hands. "Come on. Let's get back to the others and go kick some ass at this party."

Sarah and Wheezie smiled as they nodded in agreement.

Hand in hand, Sarah, Lia and Wheezie walked out of the alley, making their way back to Isa, Kie, Kaylee, Elyna, Gael and Esme, who were waiting for them diligently in concern, all on alert and ready to react on their notice, but relieved that that notice never came.

As Sarah, Lia and Wheezie let each other's hands go, they stepped toward their loved ones.

Isa and Kie immediately stepped toward Lia, reaching for their girlfriend to take her hands in theirs, their eyes flickering from Lia to Sarah and Wheezie.

"Are you okay?" Isa asked worriedly.

Lia took a deep breath, steeling herself against the remnants of her confrontation with Ward.

"We will be," Lia assured, squeezing Isa and Kie's hands tightly. "We have each other."

Kaylee's expression darkened. "What did he want?"

Wheezie glanced at Kaylee and Elyna, who both regarded them with concern but also fierce determination. "He tried to apologize. He offered us money and a place to stay, but it's all empty words."

Sarah shook her head. "We're not falling for it. It wasn't enough."

Kie squeezed Lia's hand tightly, anger flaring within her as she glanced at the alley where Ward had disappeared. "He doesn't get to just waltz back into your lives like nothing happened. He left you all to drown in his mess. Lia, Wheezie and Isa all almost died because of him. He almost killed Sarah himself. Of course nothing he says or does will never be enough."

Elyna nodded vigorously in agreement, stepping closer to Wheezie in comfort. "You owe him nothing. You all showed incredible strength by confronting him."

Wheezie looked at Elyna in relief and gratitude, her spirit igniting with fury despite the tears that lingered on her cheeks.

As they stood together, the weight of their shared experiences began to lift just a little, replaced by the warmth of solidarity and support from their friends.

Gael stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Wheezie's shoulder, his gaze flickering between the three Cameron sisters. "If you don't want to use the money from your father, that's completely okay. Esme and I will be more than happy to help look after you girls and the rest of the Pogues until you get back on your feet."

"Absolutely," Esme agreed. "You don't need Ward or Mike or Anna or anyone who treats their children like that. Not now, not ever. Not after everything they've done to you kids."

Isa looked at Gael and Esme with appreciation. "Thank you for looking out for all of us. For going above and beyond with this plan against the Laurents and just... everything."

The other girls nodded emotionally in agreement.

"We're just glad to have you all with us," Esme said, her voice warm and supportive. "Family is more than blood. It's about who stands by you through thick and thin."

Gael nodded with a small smile. "And you kids have chosen your family, and that's what matters most."

Lia took a deep breath, feeling a rush of gratitude toward Gael and Esme. "We appreciate it more than you know. It's hard to think about starting over when it feels like everything has fallen apart."

Kaylee stepped forward, her fiery spirit shining through the heaviness of the moment. "But we're not done fighting. We're stronger together. This family - our family - can take on whatever comes next."

Kie nodded fiercely. "And if Ward thinks he can come back and just walk away with everything he broke, he's got another thing coming."

"Exactly," Wheezie agreed, wiping away her tears. "We're no longer just the kids he tried to control. We've found our strength in each other."

Sarah looked around at their friends, seeing not just support but an unbreakable bond forged from shared struggles and victories. "Together, we're unstoppable."

Elyna grinned. "Let's take tonight as a chance to celebrate and make tonight unforgettable. Let's celebrate love, family and the strength we share. And face down any drama that we may - and likely will - face tonight."

Isa took a deep breath, shaking off the heaviness from earlier as she looked around at everyone gathered together - their little band of misfits ready to face whatever came their way. "Let's show them how strong we are together."

With that, Gael, Esme and the girls continued their way down the dock and toward The Wreck - toward the location of Mike and Anna's anniversary tonight, where the night's festivities, drama and chaos would take place.

⚓️

The Wreck - Outside (Mike and Anna's Anniversary Party)

(Song:) I Want You to Want Me - Cheap Trick Cover

When they arrived to The Wreck, where the party was in full swing, Kaylee's earlier treatment at Rafe's party where all the teen Kook stared at her in dumbfounded disbelief was multiplied - as Mike and Anna had invited almost the entire island; Kooks and Pogues, kids, teens and adults.

Isa, Lia and Kie were arm-in-arm, intertwined together as they walked onto the scene with Kaylee and Sarah walking beside them.

Elyna linked her arm with Wheezie, flashing her a smile with a mischievous wink. "Ready to make a biggest entrance of your life?"

Wheezie grinned with even as her cheeks turned rosy once again, allowing Elyna to guide her into the party with the other girls, everyone's attention all on them.

Gael and Esme walked hand-in-hand, trailing behind the girls.

The attention-grabbing outfits aside, everyone was shocked to see Kaylee - a known fugitive wanted for alleged murder - openly at the party for everyone to see.

And anyone who knew how Elyna and Gael turned out as Mavericks knew that they turned into fugitives, yet they were home at a family party for everyone to see as well.

However, unknown to them, they were untouchable to local law enforcement due to working with Esme and Interpol on their latest case with the Laurents, which made this grand entrance all the more satisfying to the Pogues, Gael and Esme.

There was a live band performing 'I Want You to Want Me'.

Sarah glanced away, seeing that Topper was across the party and looking at her, sending a nervous smile in return, turning away to the girls, letting the smile fade. "You didn't tell me Topper was gonna be here."

The girls glanced over at Topper.

Wheezie glared at Topper, while Lia rolled her eyes, unimpressed.

"Sorry," Kie said. "Our mom invited like the whole island."

Kaylee rolled her eyes at that.

Sarah had an awkward look. "Shit."

"He's not getting anywhere near Sarah tonight," Wheezie stated firmly.

"Shit," Sarah repeated.

Lia raised a hand. "I'll keep him away."

Sarah couldn't help a small smile. "Thanks for that, but I'm not gonna let another fight between you two start, okay? Or with Wheezie after this morning."

Lia pouted. Wheezie tilted her head, disappointed.

Isa, Elyna, Kaylee and Kie couldn't help but smile at that.

Kaylee, Kie and Elyna shared a look.

"You guys want some drinks?" Elyna asked.

"We'll get us some," Kaylee volunteered.

"Yeah, that'd be great," Isa answered. "Thanks."

"Be right back," Kie told them.

Kaylee, Kie and Elyna walked away through the crowd, enjoying the looks they got from everyone as they did. They reached the drink table, getting drinks for them and the other girls.

Kie looked at Kaylee. "How are you holding up?"

Kaylee glanced around. "I don't know. I'm getting some serious glare and stare action."

Elyna smirked. "I think half of the stare action might be because of that outfit."

"Oh, you two, too," Kaylee returned the compliment.

The three girls smiled.

Mike and Anna saw their daughters and niece, approaching them.

"Kaylee!" Mike called, anger in his tone. "Kie! Elyna!"

Kie winced. "Parentals incoming."

Kaylee rolled her eyes. "Oh, God."

Elyna looked over at Mike and Anna, raising an eyebrow, speaking sarcastically, not caring. "Uh-oh."

Mike and Anna reached Kaylee, Kie and Elyna.

"What the hell are you wearing?" Mike asked.

"Afraid that your daughters and niece outshine you at your own party?" Kaylee quipped. "What are you gonna do, kick us out? Oh, wait, you already did that to me. Three times now."

Mike and Anna sighed in frustration.

Mike opened his mouth to retort.

Anna placed a hand on his shoulder to stop him from retaliating, looking at both Mike and Kaylee pleadingly as she glanced around at the watching crowd. "Please, you two. I don't want to make a scene here."

Kaylee smiled sarcastically. "Why not? I have some great ideas."

Mike clenched his teeth. "I know Anna asked you to come to the party, but if you have any compassion for your mother or this family, I really think it would be best for everyone if you had one of your mysterious headaches and left early."

Anna gave her husband a look. "Mike!"

Elyna gave her uncle an incredulous look in defense for her cousin. "You want your own daughter to leave your anniversary party?"

Mike shot his niece a glare. "I want to be able to celebrate without half of the island thinking that my daughter is a murderer and casting shame onto the entire family. Not that you, Gael and Esme would know anything about image, Elyna. I think it would be best for the three of you to leave, too. Until all of you get the pardons from your deal, I don't think any of you should be anywhere near these parties. Especially if it brings the attention of the police here and threatens to disrupt the peace that we want to bring to the island."

Kaylee, Kie and Elyna glared at him.

Kaylee shook her head. "You never once gave a shit about bringing peace to the island. You always gave me hell for trying to be both Kook and Pogue because you thought less of me for doing so, and thought I was poisoning Kie when she started to do the same, and now you think you can invite the entire island and do the exact same thing that we were trying to do by bridging the gap and think you're saving the island?"

Kie scoffed in disbelief as she stared her father down. "You're a hypocrite. How can you blame Kaylee and isolate her for doing the same thing that you're doing now and then do the same thing and act like she was the bad guy for doing it before?"

Mike and Anna didn't have a chance to respond before Gael and Esme walked closer.

Gael stared his brother down. "And before you talk to my daughter like that again, Mike, I suggest you think again before you disrespect me and my family like that. Elyna, Esme and I have done nothing wrong to you, and neither have Kaylee and Kie. So maybe you should show them the respect they deserve instead of treating them like you do."

Mike swallowed nervously at the cold gaze despite the glare he gave his brother.

Esme placed a hand on Gael's shoulder. "Gael..."

Anna reached for Kaylee's arm. "Sweetie, I know you're angry--"

Kaylee pulled her arm away, her voice sarcastic and bitter. "That you took down my home and tried to manipulate me by saying either go back to being in your house and being controlled and punished for just surviving, or being sent to some wilderness prison therapy camp? Taking down my childhood home that was the only place I've ever felt safe? No, why would I be angry about that, Mom? You promised that I would have time to get all of my things out safely, but you wanna know what happened this morning when I went back to get the rest of my things?"

"What are you talking about?" Esme asked in concern.

"Dad already started taking down the Pogue Nest piece by piece," Kaylee answered. "It was dismantled and the stairs started falling through when Rafe and I had to carry boxes and bags down the fucking stairs. And I almost fell through one of the stairs that gave out from underneath me halfway down. And if he hadn't caught me, do you know what would have happened to me? What that drop could have done to me?"

Shock, concern, worry, disbelief and anger passed over Kie, Elyna, Gael and Esme's faces as they shot incredulous looks at Mike.

Anna looked at Mike in disbelief.

"Mike, you knew she had to go back for her things," Gael told him. "If she fell through, she could've broken a leg, an arm, her fucking neck. She could've died!"

"How could you put your own daughter in danger like that, again?" Esme asked.

Mike's face hardened, his jaw tightening as he faced the mounting scrutiny from his family. "You think I wanted that? You think I wanted to tear down the treehouse? I did what I thought was best to protect this family!"

Kaylee shook her head, disbelief mingling with anger. "Protect us? By destroying the only place that felt like home? You're not protecting anyone, Dad. You're suffocating us."

"Exactly!" Kie interjected, her voice rising as she stepped closer to her father. "This isn't about protection; it's about control. You want to dictate how we live our lives instead of trusting us to make our own choices."

Elyna crossed her arms, glaring at Mike. "Don't pretend you care about the 'family image' when you're putting your ego above your own daughters' well-being. And you're seriously using your version of 'protection' as an excuse for nearly getting your daughter killed... again?"

Mike's resolve flickered, the guilt flashing in his eyes. "I didn't know she was going back today."

"You knew she was going back soon," Gael retorted. "And you knew that she needed stability in that treehouse to get her things. So why in the hell you thought that it was a good idea to start taking the Pogue Nest apart today and risk her safety and the safety of anyone helping her get the rest of her stuff, I have no idea."

Esme shook her head in disappointment. "You treat your daughters and your brother and your niece like common criminals when you know everything that led up to the way they are, and you expect them to just sit back and take it."

"That's enough," Mike snapped, but it lacked the conviction it once had.

Kaylee scoffed with a shake of her head. "You don't get to dictate what's enough for me or any of us anymore."

They could feel the heat of everyone's eyes on them, a crowd forming around their confrontation. The murmurs started to rise.

Kie stepped forward, fiery determination radiating from her. "You act like we owe you something for this twisted version of 'family' you've created. But you've stripped us of our safety and happiness."

Anna looked torn between her husband and her daughters, glancing at Elyna, Gael and Esme, knowing that every word they said was true on some level yet her reliance on her husband made her hesitant to accept it.

Mike glared at his daughters, niece, brother and sister-in-law. "We're doing what we have to."

Elyna scoffed. "Yeah, well, so are we. At least for us, that means literally. But it doesn't for you two."

"Do not make a scene here," Mike warned. "Of all places."

Esme shook her head calmly. "We're not the ones making a scene. We're just here for the girls to celebrate."

"You two can do whatever the hell you want," Gael told them. "Just leave us out of it."

Kaylee gave Mike and Anna a sarcastic salute, turning around, walking away, leaving her parents speechless.

Elyna and Kie took the drinks meant for the other girls and took them back to Isa, Lia, Sarah and Wheezie, not looking back.

Gael and Esme smirked, walking away.

Mike and Anna were left alone, absolutely stunned.

Kaylee walked away through the crowd, needing a moment alone to catch her breath after the emotional moment with her parents.

That was when she saw Rafe across the party.

Rafe had seen and heard the Carreras fighting like most of the party, looking toward Kaylee knowingly. He took in the sight of her in the diamond chain dress, biting his lip.

As Rafe's eyes caught hers, Kaylee could see the question in his gaze, the concern mingling with admiration. Rafe moved closer, weaving through the crowd, his confident stride radiating a sense of calm amidst the chaos. When he reached her, he gently took her elbow, guiding her away from the prying eyes of the crowd.

"Hey," Rafe said, his voice low but inviting. "I caught part of that showdown. You were incredible."

"Thanks," Kaylee replied, her breath slightly hitching from emotion from the mentioned showdown.

"That's what tonight is about, right?" Rafe asked, his gaze steady. "Reclaiming your place and being who you are without apologies. Just like earlier at my party, and here tonight."

Kaylee nodded numbly. "Yeah. Just needed to escape a moment."

Rafe glanced back toward where Mike and Anna stood, looking like storm clouds ready to unleash their fury on anyone who dared cross them. "Well, like I promised earlier. If it gets any worse tonight, I'll happily sweep you away for a distraction just to dance on the dock or on the beach away from everybody."

Kaylee couldn't help but chuckle at that. "If it gets worse than that, I might have to take you up on that offer."

Rafe smiled in return.

Rafe glanced down at Kaylee's dress, smirking. "And, uh, the dress? Definitely not one of yours."

Kaylee laughed lightly, crossing her arms confidently. "Yeah, no. Uh, Elyna dove into her treasure trove of costume dresses for me and the other girls, including your sisters."

Rafe looked across the party toward Lia, Sarah and Wheezie, looking surprised by their outfits, and along with Isa, Kie and Elyna beside them.

Rafe chuckled. "I see that. Let me guess. All of you wanted revenge and wanted to prove that you could outshine any Kook and especially your parents at their own party."

Kaylee shrugged sheepishly, tilting her head. "Maybe. It's working so far."

Rafe smiled in admiration, shaking his head. "You're all troublemakers."

"Like you're one to talk," Kaylee retorted.

Rafe smirked slightly. As he looked around, he could see Topper and Kelce sending glares their way after the way they humiliated them earlier at Rafe's party.

Rafe's smirk faded as he glared toward Topper and Kelce.

Kaylee followed Rafe's gaze toward Topper and Kelce. "Yeah, they've been giving me glares all night. Said they wanted to make me pay for earlier."

"Yeah, well, they won't get the chance," Rafe replied. "Neither will any other of these Kooks or whoever. Consider me your bodyguard for the night."

Kaylee turned her head to give Rafe a look. "I don't need one."

Rafe smirked. "I know."

"But thank you," Kaylee said.

Rafe grinned, leaning in slightly. "Always. Just let me know if you need a distraction or an exit plan."

Kaylee chuckled, the tension of earlier starting to fade slightly. "That might come in handy sooner than you think."

Rafe leaned in a bit closer, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "Besides, I can't let anyone ruin this night for you. Not after everything you've gone through."

Kaylee pressed her lips together, surprised by his sincere concerned. "Thanks. It just feels like tonight could go in a thousand different directions."

Rafe gave a confident grin. "Then let's make sure it goes in the right one."

Kaylee couldn't help a small smile. "Let's."

⚓️

Elsewhere

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie were sitting together at the party as they processed seeing their father.

And as they spoke about the previous night's activities of Lia's downward spiral of nearly killing Barry and burning down Robbie's old house to ensure that Barry could no longer use it as a drug haven, with Kaylee, JJ, Kie, Wheezie, Elyna and Rafe getting through to her.

And with Sarah hanging out with Topper and Kelce even after everything they did to the Pogues - especially Lia - and cheating on John B with Topper, and everything that meant that Sarah and Wheezie discussed that morning.

As the party swirled around them, music pulsing in the background and laughter echoing from all corners of the dock, Lia leaned in closer to her sisters, as if creating a barrier against the chaos.

The sight of Topper and Kelce mingling with their Kook friends made her stomach churn, but Lia forced herself to focus on the warmth of Wheezie's hand clasped tightly in her own.

"I just... I can't believe he showed up," Lia murmured, frustration lacing her voice. "After everything."

Sarah sighed, her eyes drifting back to Topper for a moment longer before looking away. "I know. But I can't just ignore him either. We need to figure this out." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "I can't keep lying to myself about how I feel."

"Then don't," Wheezie urged softly. "But remember what he did. You don't have to go back to that."

Lia nodded, glancing at Sarah with a mixture of sadness, betrayal and confusion. "I don't understand why you went back to them last night, or why you kissed him. But I don't judge you either."

Sarah looked at Lia sadly, guilt creeping back into her heart. "I don't understand why I let myself be drawn to him again either, Lia. I don't. I thought..."

"You wanted to feel normal," Wheezie interjected gently. "We all do after everything that's happened. But using old habits isn't the way to do it."

Lia swallowed, nodding. "Wheezie's right."

Sarah took Lia's hand. "But I never should have stayed friends with Kelce or stayed with Topper after I found out how they were treating you. How Tod was treating you. After Robbie died. I... I don't know why I did. And I'm so sorry, Lia. I wish I could take it all back. Especially what I did yesterday. I shouldn't have been with them. I should've been there with you and Wheezie and even Rafe. With Kaylee and JJ and Kie and Elyna. Helping them get through to you to stop you from hurting Barry. Even though he deserved it, you did not deserve to ruin your life. You did the right thing with burning the house down. But you also did the right thing with letting him go."

Wheezie nodded vigorously in agreement. "And Barry will never come after you again, Lia. Not after what you did. Just like he never went after Kaylee or JJ again after Kaylee almost killed him, because he was too scared. This time, he's terrified of you."

Lia tilted her head, raising her gaze. "He should be."

Wheezie and Sarah squeezed Lia's hands.

"Are you okay?" Sarah whispered.

"I will be," Lia replied. "Will you?"

Sarah nodded, swallowing. "I will be. I just have to figure everything out, and tell John B."

"Just..." Lia trailed off. 'If John B snaps, you can't blame him, Sarah. Not after everything he and Isa have gone through."

"That's what I told her," Wheezie agreed.

Sarah sighed heavily. "I know. John B and Isa have gone through so much since all of this started, only to lose their dad again. And I know that they were almost killed today, and last night, and their dad was kidnapped last night. So John B's going to be even more on edge knowing that I was cheating on him last night with Topper while all of this was going on. It's just too much."

"Especially after everything Topper's done to John B, Isa, Pope and Kaylee," Wheezie added.

Sarah raised her eyebrows in acknowledgement. "I don't know how I'm gonna do this."

"We'll help you as much as we can," Lia assured.

Wheezie nodded in agreement.

Sarah gave her sisters a relieved smile.

Topper was slowly making his way over to the three sisters.

Lia rolled her eyes, not surprised and not amused. "Well, speak of the motherfucking devil."

Wheezie tilted her head back, completely fed up with Topper for one day. "Um, well, I'm gonna go over here. Anywhere he's not."

Sarah became nervous at the thought of being left alone with Topper. "Please don't."

Wheezie and Lia glanced at Sarah, seeing how nervous she was, nodding in agreement.

"We'll be close," Lia promised. "Just say the word."

Sarah nodded nervously. "Okay."

"And I'll go of on him if you want me to," Lia added.

"Again, please don't do that," Sarah told her.

Lia pouted.

Topper reached them, waving. "Hey, Lia. Already saw Wheezie this morning. Whatcha doing?"

It was clearly causing Lia physical pain to not go off on Topper, though she couldn't resist making witty and sassy remarks.

Lia crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow, her voice sweet but laced with sarcasm. "Oh, you know, just relieving the worst moments of our lives every time you pop up. How's your day going, Top?"

Wheezie couldn't resist a grin at Lia's quip.

Topper's smile faltered slightly but he recovered quickly, leaning against the railing beside them. "Come on, Lia. I didn't come here to fight. I just wanted to see how you're doing."

"Doing great, thanks for asking," Lia replied dryly. "The only time you bother to give a damn about me is when you want something from Sarah, so just get it over with."

Wheezie and Lia both stepped slightly in front of Sarah as if to shield her from further interaction. Sarah couldn't help but smile slightly at their protectiveness.

Wheezie crossed her arms. "What do you want, Topper?"

Proving Lia's words true, Topper focused his attention on Sarah, his tone suddenly earnest. "Hey, Sarah. I was hoping we could talk about last night."

Sarah's heart raced as she took a step back, fidgeting nervously with her earring. "There's nothing to talk about, Topper."

"Come on," Topper coaxed gently. "Look, I don't wanna blow your cover or anything. So I'll just keep it low-key. I know we're not public or anything. You know what I mean?"

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie looked at Topper in disbelief as he implied that he and Sarah were in some sort of secret relationship based off of one kiss when Sarah was confused and looking for something to feel normal for once in her abnormal life.

Lia scoffed. "Uh, how delusional can you be, Topper?"

Topper shrugged, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Delusional? No. Just realistic. You know how things work around here, right? Kooks and Pogues tend to keep their dealings discreet."

Lia's eyes narrowed, feeling the anger surge within her again. "You really think you can just waltz back in after everything you've done and act like you're some kind of prince charming?"

Wheezie stepped forward, crossing her arms defiantly. "You hurt our sister, Topper. You don't get to play the victim here."

"Hey, I'm not trying to be the bad guy," Topper shot back, his tone defensive. "I just want to talk to Sarah."

"About what?" Sarah shot back. "How you plan to play me like a pawn again? We've seen how well that goes."

Topper raised his hands defensively, feigning innocence. "I didn't mean it like that. I'm just saying... we had something, right? Last night was fun."

Sarah clenched her jaw, feeling the weight of her own conflict. "That was a mistake, Topper. I shouldn't have even been with you after everything that happened."

Topper frowned, his expression and tone turning from annoyance to anger. "Wait, so this is just because of Lia and what happened last year? You really gonna let her dictate your choices?"

Lia stepped forward, fire in her eyes. "You think I'm some kind of influence over Sarah? She's more than capable of making her own decisions."

"You've hurt me, and my sister and my friends, too many times, Topper," Sarah told him. "I can't believe that I brushed that aside last night, but I'm not going to forget that again."

Topper snorted dismissively, brushing off Lia's words. "Come on, it's not like I'm the only one with a messy past."

Wheezie narrowed her eyes at him. "No, but you've made your choices and you don't feel remorse about the things you do or the people you hurt. You're still hurting the people we care about. And you've done nothing to make up for it. So what are you still doing here, Top? Looking for another chance to manipulate us? Or is this just a ploy for attention?"

"Seriously?" Topper scoffed, his bravado faltering under their scrutiny. "I'm here trying to be civil."

"Civil?" Lia echoed incredulously. "You've had your chance at civility repeatedly, and you blew it."

"Can we not do this right now?" Sarah interjected, trying to ease the tension. "I don't want to make a scene."

Lia scoffed. "Good luck with that. This party already had a scene and recovered just fine."

"So let's not make another one for it to overcome," Wheezie replied, flashing Topper a sarcastic smile. "You can go now, Topper."

Topper scoffed at being dismissed like a child, glaring at the three sisters cruelly. "Sarah, are you just going to let your sisters talk to me like this?"

"Yeah," Sarah answered. "Because they're done with this, and so am I."

Lia and Wheezie looked at Sarah like they had never been more proud of her, yet concerned for her, worried about how Topper could react knowing that he could potentially be dangerously obsessed with her.

Topper's face darkened, a storm of emotions flashing across his features. His jaw clenched, and for a brief moment, Sarah caught a glimpse of something dangerous lurking behind his eyes. It was a look she had seen before, on the rooftop when he had forced her to jump, in the moments before he had shoved John B off the Hawk's Nest. A volatile mixture of possessiveness, anger, and wounded pride that made her blood run cold.

"You're making a mistake, Sarah," Topper said, his voice low and eerily calm. "We're good together. You know it, I know it. Don't let them," he gestured dismissively at Lia and Wheezie, "cloud your judgment."

Sarah took an involuntary step back, feeling the tension radiating off him in waves. Lia and Wheezie moved closer to their sister, forming a protective barrier between her and Topper.

"I think it's time for you to leave," Lia said firmly, her eyes never leaving Topper's face.

Topper's gaze snapped to Lia, his eyes burning with a mixture of hatred and rage. "And what are you going to do if I don't?" He looked at Wheezie. "Either of you?"

Wheezie stood her ground, bravely meeting Topper's glare. "If you don't leave, we will make you regret it. You're not as tough as you think you are, Topper. You're just a prick who likes to hide behind his money to get shit done."

"Yeah," Lia added, her voice unwavering. "You forget who you're dealing with. We don't scare easily."

Topper's facade began to crack, the confidence he had worn slipping away as he took a step back, realizing they were not going to back down this time. "You think you can just push me around because you have some friends backing you up? You shouldn't underestimate me."

"We know exactly who you are," Sarah replied, her voice steady despite the tension swirling around them. "And we'll never let you hurt us again."

Topper lost his complete temper as he nearly snapped and lashed out at the three girls, making them tense in preparation to respond and retaliate.

But before Topper's blow could land, Rafe had intervened upon seeing the confrontation, catching Topper's arm before he could strike any of his sisters, twisting his arm harshly, making him cry out in pain, pushing him away from his sisters.

Lia and Wheezie's breath caught in relief upon seeing their brother. They had seen him a lot during their work together with the Laurent case, but this was the first time Sarah came face to face with Rafe since the ship, since she had requested time and space from their brother and father after Ward had tried to kill the sisters. Rafe honored her wish until he saw Topper threatening his sisters at the party.

Rafe's grip on Topper tightened as he pushed him back against the wooden railing, his eyes blazing with protective fury, his voice dangerously low. "You got a problem, Topper?"

Lia felt a surge of gratitude for her brother stepping in at that moment, just as she had last night when he helped get through to her to stop her from making a terrible mistake with Barry. She exchanged quick glances with Wheezie and Sarah, relief washing over them as they saw Rafe standing up for them.

Topper gritted his teeth, attempting to regain his composure. "This is none of your business, Rafe."

"Oh, but it is," Rafe shot back, pressing forward slightly, forcing Topper to lean against the railing. "You're threatening my sisters, and that makes it very much my business."

"I'm not threatening anyone," Topper protested, though the panic in his eyes betrayed him. "I just wanted to talk."

"Yeah?" Rafe replied. "Well, right now you're about two seconds away from getting your ass kicked if you don't leave right now."

The party continued around them, laughter and music filling the air, blissfully unaware of the simmering tension in this corner of the dock.

"Rafe..." Sarah trailed off in warning.

Rafe glanced at Sarah before shoving Topper away, releasing his arm.

Topper stumbled back, nearly collapsing before regaining his footing.

Lia raised her eyebrows at Topper. "Do you want to see what I'll do to you next if you don't back the hell off? Believe me, I've gone a lot crazier than the last time you've called me a crazy bitch. Last night, I almost killed Barry and burned down his house if that doesn't tell you anything. You wanna be next on the list, Top?"

Rafe, Wheezie and Sarah glanced at Lia, not surprised by Lia telling Topper this just to warn him away from Sarah to protect their sister.

Topper glared at Rafe and Lia furiously. "You're fucking crazy. Both of you."

"Tell us something we don't know," Rafe replied.

With a final glare directed at Sarah and Wheezie as well, Topper turned around and stumbled away through the party, leaving the Cameron siblings alone.

Lia waved at Topper sarcastically before turning her wave into a middle finger as she flipped Topper off. "Bye, Tweedledumbass."

As the echoes of the party resumed, the tension around the four siblings began to fade.

Rafe turned back to Lia, Sarah and Wheezie, concern etched across his features. "You okay?"

Sarah nodded slowly, trying to regain her composure. "Yeah, just... I didn't expect him to confront me like that." She glanced over her shoulder, ensuring Topper was truly gone before letting out a breath she didn't know she'd been holding.

Wheezie squeezed Sarah's hand tightly, her own heart still racing. "You did well. You stood your ground."

Lia flashed a grateful smile at Rafe. "Thanks for stepping in. I didn't want to see Sarah get hurt again."

Rafe nodded, brushing off the gratitude. "I was making up for the past. Like last night. And everything else lately."

Lia and Wheezie smiled slightly.

"You've been doing that a lot lately for me, Lia and Kaylee," Wheezie pointed out.

"Especially last night," Lia pointed out. "Thank you. For stopping me from killing someone."

Rafe nodded in agreement, looking at Sarah, slightly awkward after their reunion. "You good?"

Sarah nodded, also a bit awkward, but also relieved for him stepping in when he did, knowing that he was the reason why Lia and Wheezie were still alive, along with Isa and Kaylee, and the reason why Lia didn't kill someone last night. "Yeah. Thank you. Not just for that, but everything you've been doing, I guess. And giving me the space I asked for."

Rafe nodded. "I told you whatever you needed." He paused, glancing around the party while his eyes searched for any signs of lingering threats. "Just let me know if he comes near you again."

"God, I hope he doesn't," Sarah said.

"We won't let him intimidate us again," Lia said firmly.

"Exactly," Wheezie added. "We've been through too much to let him play games with our heads."

Rafe sighed, glancing around the party where laughter and music continued to fill the air. "You should get back to your friends. Stay with them until the party's over."

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie nodded in agreement.

"We will," Sarah replied.

Wheezie frowned. "We saw Dad today. Before the party."

Rafe's jaw tensed as he heard the words. "I figured you would. Kaylee told you before you saw him, right? That he was in town?"

"Yeah, she told us," Lia answered.

Rafe nodded, looking away. "I would've told you, but none of you were answering your phones."

"We had a busy day," Sarah admitted.

"He didn't hurt you again, did he?" Rafe asked.

"No," Wheezie answered. "No, he just gave us empty apologizes and tried to buy us off as if a condo and some cash would be enough to make up for the fact that he almost strangled Sarah to death and that he ordered Eberhini to stab Lia in the heart and me in the stomach."

Rafe clenched his teeth at the reminder. He flashed back to Barry's words about how in the end, it might come down to Ward's death, and he remembered how close to death Lia and Wheezie came to death due to their infections and wounds long after Ward's order to kill them, how they were tortured and tormented for a month after they were attacked on the ship and nearly died because of their father over the course of that month. He could see the scar on Lia's shoulder underneath the strap of her dress.

Rafe feared that Barry could be right - maybe it would come down to either Rafe's safety or Ward's safety. Or even his sisters' safety or their father's safety.

Rafe took a deep breath. "Listen to me. I'm not going to let Dad hurt any of you ever again. Okay?"

"Okay," Lia replied softly, her eyes steady on Rafe's. "But we have to stick together. We can't let him manipulate us again."

Sarah nodded, her voice firm. "We need to be ready for whatever he tries next. He won't give up easily."

Rafe's expression turned serious as he glanced toward the entrance of the party, scanning for any sign of their father or Topper lurking around. "I'll handle it if it comes to that. I don't care what it takes; I'm not letting Dad hurt you."

Wheezie placed a hand on Rafe's arm, gratitude passing between them. "Thank you. We're strong together. We all are."

Lia smiled at her sisters, feeling that familiar warmth spread through them despite the darkness that loomed on the edges of their lives. "And if we stand together, then we can face whatever comes our way."

"You're better off with your friends for right now," Rafe admitted. "I'm still trying to pull myself together completely. But I'll still be helping with what I can."

Lia and Wheezie nodded in understanding.

Sarah was surprised to see how far Rafe had come in such a short time, impressed yet wary, not sure if she could trust that this could last. Yet, she knew that he had done so many things to help their sisters and Kaylee and the plane heist group that she didn't think she had to doubt him entirely. Still, the pain of the past - including Rafe drowning her - burned in her mind. She couldn't entirely let that betrayal go despite her appreciation and gratitude for Rafe turning his life around and everything he had done for them since. Not yet.

"Okay," Sarah said softly. She took Lia and Wheezie by the arms, starting to lead them away. "Come on. Let's get back to the girls."

Wheezie waved bye to Rafe as the sisters walked away. Rafe watched them go, relieved that they were okay for now.

(Song Ends)

(Song:) Animal - Neon Trees Cover

Lia, Sarah and Wheezie made their way up to Isa, Kie, Kaylee and Elyna at their table.

Isa and Kie noticed instantly that something had happened when they saw the look on Lia's face, concerned that something was wrong or something could have happened to their girlfriend.

"Hey, what is it?" Isa asked.

"What happened?" Kie asked at the same time.

Lia took a deep breath, settling into the comforting familiarity of her sisters and girlfriends.

"We just had a run-in with Topper," Lia admitted, keeping her voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions still swirling within.

Isa's expression darkened, and Isa and Kie's grips on Lia's hands tightened protectively.

"Are you okay?" Kie asked, concern etched in her features.

"Yeah," Sarah chimed in quickly, wanting to ease their worries. "Rafe stepped in before things could escalate. He made sure Topper knew he wouldn't get away with anything."

Elyna turned to look at Kaylee, Isa and Kie, sharing a glance that conveyed their shared concern for the girls. "That guy just doesn't know when to back off. I wish he'd just stay away."

Wheezie nodded, grateful for the support surrounding them. "He thinks he can just slip back into our lives, but it's not going to happen. Not after everything."

"He acted like he had some right to be here," Sarah admitted. "Like we wouldn't remember everything he put us through."

Kaylee frowned, her fists clenching at the memory of the chaos Topper had caused in their lives. "He's not going to change, Sarah. We can't let him get to you."

Wheezie nodded vigorously. "Exactly. You've come so far from all that. We won't let him pull you back into his mess."

Isa reached over, taking Sarah's hand in hers as a gesture of solidarity. "You're not alone in this. We've got each other's backs, always."

Sarah smiled in relief and gratitude, squeezing Isa's hand in return.

Elyna lit up with an idea. "I think we need to go dance up in this bitch. We're the baddest bitches up in this joint, and we're the best looking ones by far. We're not wasting this night by not dancing. Who's with me?"

The energy shifted at Elyna's words, and the girls began to smile, caught up in her infectious enthusiasm. The idea of dancing felt liberating, a chance to shake off the encounter with Topper and embrace the joy of being together.

"I'm in!" Kaylee declared, standing up and stretching her arms above her head. "Let's show everyone how it's done."

Wheezie giggled, rising from her seat. "I don't need to be asked twice."

Sarah grinned, feeling the adrenaline of the moment rise within her. "Dance floor, here we come."

Lia exchanged a glance with Isa and Kie, and they both nodded in agreement.

"Let's do this," Lia said, pushing away any lingering doubts about the earlier confrontation.

"We definitely need this," Isa pointed out.

Kie nodded, a grin spreading across her face.

As they made their way to the dance floor, the energy shifted around them. The live rock music covered the song "Animal" by Neon Trees which seemed perfect for the moment, the beat of the song in sync with their hearts, and for a moment, they could forget the weight of everything else - Ward, Topper, Barry, the Laurents, Singh, Big John, Mike, Anna, and all their past struggles.

Elyna took the lead as they entered the crowded space, weaving through groups of Kooks and Pogues who all stared or glared as they passed. Her emerald jumpsuit caught the light with every move, making her look like a beacon amidst the swirling chaos of the party.

The girls positioned themselves on the edge of the dance floor, their bodies pulsing with the rhythm of the music as they began to sway together.

Elyna led the way, her energy infectious as she twirled around, her laughter ringing above the sound of clinking glasses and chatter. The other girls followed suit, letting loose and feeling the weight of the world slip away with each beat.

Lia caught a glimpse of Isa and Kie's fierce smiles, which ignited a spark of joy within her. The three girlfriends danced close together, arms entwined as they moved in sync, surrounded by their friends. The familiarity of it all - the warmth and love radiating between them - felt like a comforting blanket amidst the chaos they had faced earlier.

As they spun and twirled under the dim lights, laughter replaced any lingering tension from their encounter with Topper.

Wheezie threw her head back in delight, taking a moment to catch her breath before launching into an impromptu dance routine that had everyone laughing in joy until they were breathless.

Elyna took Wheezie by the hands and pulled her into a calmer but sensual dance. "Here. Let me take the lead."

Elyna gently pulled Wheezie closer. Wheezie's widened slightly, a mix of excitement and nervousness fluttering in her chest as Elyna's hands settled on her waist.

"Just follow my lead," Elyna murmured, her voice low and reassuring.

Wheezie nodded, placing her hands on Elyna's shoulders as they began to sway together, keeping up with the song's rhythm. The rest of the party seemed to fade away, the chatter and laughter becoming a distant hum as they focused solely on each other.

Elyna moved with a fluid grace, her body in perfect sync with the music. Wheezie found herself mesmerized by the way Elyna's emerald jumpsuit caught the light, making her seem to glow from within. Elyna was hypnotized by the way Wheezie's deep green shimmering dress sparkled underneath the light of the setting sun and the lights outside of The Wreck. Their bodies were close, the warmth shared between them.

Kaylee, Kie, Isa, Lia and Sarah smiled knowingly as they backed away and gave them room to dance on their own. Their eyes never left the pair on the dance floor, as they couldn't be happier for Wheezie and Elyna if they found happiness together.

Elyna's eyes twinkled with mischief as she gently guided Wheezie into a spin. The two of them drifted across the dance floor, their movements in sync as if they'd been dancing together for years.

Wheezie's heart raced, butterflies fluttering in her stomach as Elyna's gaze never left hers. Their chemistry was palpable, even through the chaos of the party around them, each smiling at the other as if they were the only two at the party.

Isa took Kie and Lia by the hands as she took her girlfriends back out to dance, the three lovers spinning each other around one by one. Hand in hand, they continued to glide across the dance floor together, the chemistry that had long been in the relationship still burning brightly.

As Wheezie and Elyna continued their enchanting dance, Isa, Kie, and Lia moved together in perfect harmony, their bodies swaying and twirling in sync with the music. The three girlfriends formed a tight circle, their hands intertwined as they spun around, creating their own little world within the bustling party. The chemistry between the three girlfriends was electric, sparks practically visible as they twirled and dipped to the music. Many practices at Pogue parties and bonfire parties made their trio dances look nearly perfect and effortless.

Isa took the lead, her deep blue dress flowing around her as she guided Kie and Lia through the steps. Her eyes sparkled with joy as her dark curls bounced with each step, framing her face as she laughed happily. The stress of her father's kidnapping momentarily faded away as she lost herself in the moment with the girls she loved. Her movements were graceful yet powerful, each step deliberate as she pulled Kie close then spun Lia out in a twirl.

Kie matched Isa's energy, her fiery red dress a stark contrast to Isa's cool blue. She moved with confidence, her hips swaying sensually as she danced between her two girlfriends, her red dress making her look like a flame dancing in the night. Her movements fluid and graceful as she spun Isa around and lowered Lia into a dip before pulling her back up and spinning her out. 

Lia's turn came, her black and gold dress shimmering under the lights as she moved with a captivating blend of grace and intensity. Her long blonde hair whipped around her as she spun, creating a golden halo effect that mesmerized onlookers. The intricate golden embroidery on her black dress caught the light with each twirl, making her appear to glow from within.

Lia's movements were bold and passionate, a stark contrast to her earlier vulnerability. She pulled Isa close, their bodies pressed together as they swayed in unison, before spinning her out with a flourish. Then she turned to Kie, leading her through a series of quick, intricate steps that showcased both their agility and the deep connection they shared.

As Lia danced, her eyes blazed with a fierce joy that seemed to radiate outward, touching everyone around her, whether they loved her or hated her.

Their dance was a testament to their journey - filled with passion, strength and resilience. They moved with a fierce grace, their bodies telling a story of survival and triumph.

Lia took both Kie and Isa's hands, pulling them close. The three moved as one, their bodies in perfect synchronization as they spun around each other, closing in on each other, chest to chest as they intertwined their arms around one another, still spinning endlessly until the song came to an end.

(Song Ends)

As the final notes of the song faded away, Isa, Kie, and Lia stood breathless in each other's arms, their foreheads touching, their chests heaving as they caught their breath. Their eyes locked on each other, filled with love, joy and a hint of mischief. Slowly, matching grins spread across their faces as the realization of what they'd just done sank in.

"That was..." Isa began, her voice trailing off as she searched for the right words.

"Incredible," Kie finished, her eyes sparkling with delight.

Lia nodded, her cheeks flushed with exertion and happiness. "We killed it."

Kie, Isa and Lia grinned happily.

The world around them slowly came back into focus, the sounds of the party filtering back in as they became aware of the eyes upon them.

The dance floor had cleared during their performance, other partygoers stepping back to watch in awe as the three girlfriends moved together with such passion and grace. Now, a moment of stunned silence hung in the air before erupting into enthusiastic applause and cheers.

Gael and Esme had happily watched the girls enjoy themselves, then Elyna and Wheezie's dance with pride and tears in their eyes, and watched Isa, Kie and Lia's dance with awe.

Kaylee and Sarah stood at the edge of the dance floor, their faces beaming with pride and joy for their sisters and friends.

Kaylee whooped loudly, pumping her fist in the air as she shouted. "That's my girls!"

Sarah clapped vigorously. "Whoo!"

Gael and Esme began to applaud and cheer along.

Rafe, who had seen the girls dance, and then then Elyna/Wheezie and the trio dance, couldn't help but smirk a slight smile and start to clap as well.

Slowly, several Pogues across the party started to applaud along, as well as Samantha and Mitch Michaels, the two Kook parents who helped Rafe spread the word about Kaylee's innocence and helped lead the Mavericks to Rafe once they arrived to town.

Isa, Kie, Lia, Elyna and Wheezie smiled, blushing at the praise, grinning at Kaylee, Sarah, Gael and Esme, even nodding to Rafe in acknowledgement, though they were intent to ignore everyone else in the party like they were trying to ignore them.

Anna and Mike, still angry about their family fight earlier, weren't sure how to act about the dance that their daughters had with their friends, or that Kie put on with her girlfriends, or that their niece Elyna put on with Wheezie.

Other Kooks - especially Topper and Kelce - merely glared at the girls, scowling as if they could make them disappear.

Topper turned to Kelce. "I need you to do something for me."

"Yeah, what's that?" Kelce asked.

"Call the station and tell them that Kaylee's here," Topper answered. "I don't want it traced back to me, but after the Camerons put me down earlier, and the way Kaylee put you and me down today, they all need a little lesson, wouldn't you say?"

Kelce smiled wickedly. "Hell yeah, man."

Kelce and Topper did a handshake.

⚓️

Pier

On the pier leading up to the dock, John B and JJ were getting out of the HMS Pogue, tying it up to the pier.

"Here's the game plan," John B told him. "Get the girls, go find Pope and Cleo. Get down to South America as soon as possible. Cool?"

"Seems a bit vague, I gotta say, John B," JJ pointed out. "Also, I don't got a passport, dog."

John B walked along the dock above, running a hand through his hair. "Hey, look, don't bore me with the details, all right? We'll figure that out later."

"Plus, Kaylee, Kie, Lia, Wheezie and Elyna have to help Gael and Esme with the plane heist tomorrow, remember?" JJ asked.

John B winced as he looked away. "Right, fuck. I forgot about that."

"Yeah," JJ agreed. "But as soon as they're done with that, they're gonna be helping us book it to South America, one way or another."

John B nodded in agreement. "I know, I know. I just want to get the girls out of here before something blows up at this party like it always does." JJ looked toward Mike and Anna nervously. John B noticed. "Hey, look at me."

John B whistled.

JJ turned back to John B. "Yeah."

"I'm gonna get Sarah and Isa," John B told him. "Isa'll get Lia and Kie and hopefully they'll know where Wheezie and Elyna are. JJ, you get Kaylee. Little rendezvous mission. Back on the boat, get out of here."

JJ looked down, wincing. "Look, the other day, Mike and I kind of got into a little bit of a tiff, all right. Okay, scratch that. Isa and Lia got into a little tiff with Mike. I got into a big one with him."

John B narrowed his eyes at JJ, wondering what happened as he ran a hand through his hair.

JJ continued rambling nervously. "And if I go over there right now and Mike sees me, he's not gonna let Kaylee out of his sight, boom. Mission blown, we can't go down to South America."

John B put a hand on the sides of JJ's head. "Look. Just don't get seen."

JJ was thinking about more than just avoiding Mike - avoiding Kaylee herself. "You're right. I'll stay here."

John B frowned. "What? No. That's not what I was saying."

"I got your six," JJ told him, jumping back into the HMS Pogue.

"Yep, no, that's great," JOhn B replied.

"I'll keep her running," JJ stated. "Chop-chop though, okay?"

John B nodded sarcastically. "Yep, thanks." He sighed heavily, knowing what this was really about. "Look, dude, I know you're trying to avoid Kay. I saw it today. Even when we were together, you were pushing her away, and now you're avoiding her all together after the thing earlier."

JJ didn't answer, looking down.

John B looked at JJ sadly. "Just don't keep pushing her away, J. You don't want to lose her for good."

JJ looked at John B, not sure what to say.

John B started to walk down the pier toward the Wreck.

⚓️

The Wreck - Outside

The party continued full swing, even as the music took a pause for a moment.

Kelce had honored Topper's request to call Sheriff Shoupe on Kaylee to ruin the girls' night in retaliation for humiliating them at Rafe's party earlier in the day, and for the Camerons humiliating Topper earlier in this party.

Shoupe arrived with his female Deputy Plumb by his side - Plumb, who had always taunted Kaylee that she would end up behind bars eventually.

Shoupe walked his way through the crowd. "Excuse me. I'm really sorry about this. I wish I didn't have to do this, but I don't have a choice. Sheriff Shoupe. I'm going to ask all of you to remain where you are until we have secured the individual in question."

Kaylee became tense as she saw Shoupe and Plumb walking right toward her.

Kie, Isa, Lia, Sarah, Wheezie and Elyna looked toward Kaylee worriedly, walking closer.

Rafe looked toward Kaylee in alarm.

Mike and Anna looked toward their daughter tensely; Mike had a cold look as if he saw this coming and he would do nothing to stop it, gripping Anna's hand firmly to ensure she would do nothing either. Anna was conflicted yet she was too afraid to disobey Mike.

Esme walked closer quickly.

Gael stepped forward to prevent Shoupe and Plumb from getting any closer to Kaylee. "Get the hell away from my niece."

Shoupe showed his badge. "I'm Sheriff Shoupe with the Kildare Police Department. Kelce Thompson called me telling me Kaylee Carrera was here. I'm here to arrest her."

Kaylee scoffed, not surprised at this point, shaking her head. "Fucking Kelce."

Topper and Kelce watched from the crowd, enjoying the show.

Isa, Kaylee, Lia, Kie, Sarah, Wheezie, Rafe and Wheezie all shot glares toward Topper and Kelce, who could only smirk in response.

Mike rubbed his temple. "I knew it. I knew this was going to happen."

Kie stepped forward desperately, pleading for her parents to not let this happen to her sister. "Mom, Dad, do something."

Mike shook his head. "It's her own fault, Kiara. Kaylee's on her own."

Kaylee's heart broke at the knowledge that Mike was willing to let her be taken away again after everything he knew happened to her.

"Mike!" Gael shouted, glaring at his brother.

"Stay out of it, Gael!" Mike retorted.

"You can't just let her take your daughter after everything we told you!" Elyna replied.

"Kaylee is a disaster," Mike stated. "She ruins everything!"

"Mike, calm down," Anna pleaded.

Mike shot her a look. "There are police officers swarming our anniversary party, as if we have no endured enough humiliation because of what Kaylee has done to ruin this family..."

Kaylee struggled to keep herself composed in front of everyone, while all eyes were on her. While Isa, Lia, Kie, Elyna, Gael and Esme were not surprised by Mike's cruelty, Rafe, Sarah and Wheezie were in absolute disbelief that Mike could say this in front of everyone, absolutely incredulous and sympathetic for Kaylee.

"You're not taking her to jail," Isa argued.

"She didn't do anything wrong," Lia agreed.

"She was only defending herself," Wheezie pleaded. "And you know this, Shoupe."

"How could you hold that against her?" Sarah asked. "How could anyone?"

"There's no way in hell that we're letting anyone put her behind bars," Rafe stated firmly.

Kaylee felt a swell of gratitude at all of them defending her.

Shoupe held out his hand toward the group of teenagers, Gael and Esme. "If you want to stay out of jail, get out of the way. Otherwise, I can take you downtown, too."

Esme took out her Interpol badge. "You don't have the jurisdiction or the power to take me in, Sheriff. And you don't have the power to take in Kaylee anymore."

"What the hell are you talking about?" Shoupe asked.

"Agent Veilleux with Interpol," Esme introduced. "I'm here working a case against Cian and Genevieve Laurent, the parents of Tod Laurent, the boy that you want to arrest Kaylee for so-called 'murdering', when you know that he was a predator and an abuser who drugged her and attempted to assault her. And these lovely teens, including Kaylee, are assisting me in the case. Which, quite frankly, means that Kaylee is above your pay grade, as are these other fine teenagers. They're untouchable until I say otherwise."

Topper and Kelce watched in disbelief as they watched the tables turn before their very eyes. What they thought would be an enjoyable show of watching Kaylee be arrested in front of her friends and family was turning into a showdown in front of everyone where Kaylee and her loved ones would rise to the top.

Shoupe stared at Esme, his brow furrowing in disbelief. "You're saying she's working with Interpol? Is that real?"

Kaylee felt a rush of hope mixed with anxiety. She could see the tension coiling tighter around the group like a noose, but Esme's unwavering stance offered a glimmer of support.

"Yes," Gael interjected, stepping beside Esme, his expression resolute. "You might want to reconsider who you're threatening, Sheriff. This isn't just about Kaylee anymore. It's about all of us."

Isa stood tall among the group, defiance radiating from her as she defended her best friend with every fiber of her being. "You can't arrest her, Shoupe! She's done nothing but fight to protect herself and those she loves."

Kaylee's heart raced as she felt the eyes of everyone around her on her, a flicker of hope igniting within her. "I was never a criminal. I was a victim, and I'm not going to let you treat me like one anymore."

The crowd murmured, unsure how to react.

Kie stepped closer to Kaylee, her hand tightening around her sister's arm as she shot Shoupe an incredulous look. "You really think you can just waltz in here and arrest my sister without knowing the whole story? You know this is all bullshit designed to take down someone who's already been through hell."

"I don't write the rules; I just enforce them," Shoupe replied gruffly, his authority flickering.

Lia scoffed in disbelief. "The only time you've ever enforced the rules is when a Kook's money is going into your pocket. Your corruption is half the reason why we're in this position in the first place, because you refused to help Kaylee stop Tod from targeting her to begin with."

Shoupe lowered his eyes in shame as Lia's words hit home. He knew they were the truth and he couldn't deny them.

While Mike refused to speak up for Kaylee, Anna finally found her voice amid the chaos, her maternal instincts kicking in. "This isn't right! Kaylee has been through so much. You can't take her in."

Kaylee and Kie looked at their mother in shock but relief, tears in their eyes as they saw their mother fight for her daughter. It was a small step, but it was monumental in the moment.

Elyna, Gael and Esme smiled softly at Anna. Isa and Lia nodded in approval.

Others around the party were divided on where they stood. Samantha and Mitch Michaels believed wholeheartedly in Kaylee's innocence, and they refused to let Shoupe take her in, standing with the ones protecting Kaylee from being taken in, along with several Pogues around the island, and some Kooks that Rafe, Samantha and Mitch had managed to convince of Kaylee's innocence, and some that were convinced by this scene before them.

Topper and Kelce and other Kooks like them that didn't care about Kaylee's innocence or believed that she still deserved to be punished stood back and watched the scene unfold, indifferent to how it would play out.

It became clear to Shoupe and Plumb that the ones on Kaylee's side now outweighed the ones that would let her go to jail.

It astounded Kaylee the amount of people that now stood on her side after all the work that Rafe, Samantha and Mitch put in to help clear her name and spread the word about her innocence, and how many more were convinced by the show they had just seen. Just enough people to help Esme's claim of 'untouchable' to ensure that Shoupe and Plumb could no longer fight against it knowing that these people would not stand for Kaylee's arrest.

Shoupe hesitated, the weight of the crowd's collective gaze pressing down on him like a storm cloud ready to burst. He shifted on his feet, glancing at Deputy Plumb, who wore an expression of uncertainty despite her usual bravado.

"Look," Shoupe began, trying to regain some semblance of authority in a situation spiraling out of control. "If she's truly working with Interpol, then there are protocols--"

"Which I did send to your station once I received them this morning, which I guess you haven't checked yet," Esme retorted.

"For a start, you should be getting your facts straight before coming here to embarrass everyone," Gael interrupted, his voice steady and unwavering. He smirked slightly at embarrassing Shoupe further. "Your pride is costing you credibility."

Wheezie chimed in, her voice resolute. "And we're not going to stand back and watch you drag someone innocent away just because you want to protect your precious 'law'. When you ruined any chance of protecting it when you put innocent people in jail and let the real villains go free every single time before."

Kaylee felt her heart flutter with hope as she surveyed the supportive faces surrounding her. Each person stood resolutely by her side: Kie, Elyna, Isa, Lia, Wheezie, Rafe and Sarah. They all shared the same fierce determination to protect her.

The crowd around her rallied against Shoupe, unwilling to let the arrest go through, while Topper, Kelce and others like them sat back and watched, hoping for more drama to enjoy the show. The crowd became louder and louder.

"Enough!" Shoupe barked, but the fire behind his words lacked conviction.

The crowd fell silent.

Shoupe knew when he was in a corner. Lia and Wheezie's words about his corruption rang true, and he wanted to make amends and turn things around - do things right this time around. He couldn't keep going after the ones he knew was innocent when the true bad guys were still out there. With the rally around him, he didn't have much of a choice either way.

With a heavy sigh, Shoupe gave in. "All right. Plumb, there's nothing for us to do here right now. Let's go."

Shoupe turned on his heel, motioning for Deputy Plumb to follow him as they retreated from the gathering. A low murmur began to ripple through the crowd as everyone processed what had just happened.

Topper and Kelce watched Shoupe and Plumb go in disbelief.

"Are you kidding me?" Kelce demanded. "You're just gonna leave, just like that?"

"Seriously?" Topper asked.

Shoupe ignored them as he and Plumb left the party.

Isa, Kaylee, Lia, Kie, Sarah, Wheezie, Elyna and Rafe sent a glare toward Topper and Kelce.

As Shoupe and Plumb left, Isa let out a loud cheer. "Whoo!"

Kaylee felt a wave of relief wash over her, but it was quickly followed by exhaustion. She leaned into Kie, grateful for her sister's steady presence. "I can't believe that worked."

"Of course it worked!" Kie replied with a grin. "We're a team. And we have a lot more people on our side than we realized."

Elyna beamed at Kaylee and Kie, grabbing her cousins by the hands and squeezing them tightly. "You both stood your ground like champions! I don't think I've ever been prouder!"

Isa stepped forward, throwing an arm around Kaylee's shoulders. "So that happened."

Kaylee laughed.

Lia looked at Kaylee in concern. "You okay?"

"I think so," Kaylee answered.

"Good," Sarah replied. "You will be."

"That was amazing," Wheezie remarked.

Gael and Esme turned to the teens with a proud smile.

"You all did so good," Gael told them.

Elyna smiled at her parents as she reached for their hands. "Thanks to my amazing parents."

"And because you looked out for each other," Esme replied. "You did amazing."

Kaylee smiled at them. "Thank you, Uncle Gael. Thank you, Esme. I wouldn't have gotten out of that if it weren't for you." She looked at Rafe. "Or if it wasn't for what you, Samantha and Mitch did over the last month."

Rafe nodded in return. "Of course."

Gael and Esme both placed a hand on Kaylee and Kie's arms, smiling at them.

"Even if Mike and Anna won't look out for you the way they should, we will," Gael promised.

"Whenever we can," Esme agreed.

Kaylee and Kie smiled emotionally in return.

The entire crowd was murmuring and gossiping about what just transpired.

To draw everyone's attention, Mike walked onstage, calling to everyone. "Hang on, please. Excuse me. I know that was... exciting, but can I please have everyone's attention?" The crowd began to quiet down as they all turned their attention to Mike on stage. "Thank you."

Kaylee looked at Mike in betrayal. The one person who didn't defend her that should have - who she really needed in that moment - was her father, and he was all too willing for Shoupe and Plumb to take her away, as if she was nothing more than a burden to him. The toxic poison that he had always treated her as.

Mike spoke to the crowd through the mic. "Um... I just want to say a few words, and I'm not much into giving speeches, but I do want to say thank you for coming out and thank you for your support after a rough few months."

Anna stood next to the stage, looking up at Mike, nodding.

Mike gave Kie a smile. "I want to say thank you to our daughter for being here, even after the rough patches."

Kie, standing with her sister, cousin, uncle, aunt and friends in front of the stages, smiled and blushed, covering her eyes in shyness before lowering her hand.

"Thank you, Kiara, for coming and being here for our family, and not being the cause of scene after scene," Mike told her, his voice taking a harsh note at the end of his sentence - a direct insult toward Kaylee after the scene that just transpired.

Kaylee winced as she looked down, and Kie's smile faded into a frown, as everyone began to murmur once again.

Mike's eyes never left Kie, making a point to praise Kie while publicly ignoring Kaylee after all that just happened. "Hey, we love you."

Kaylee felt as if the ground had opened up beneath her feet, threatening to swallow her whole. Her father's words, dripping with disdain and thinly veiled contempt, cut through her like shards of glass.

The public humiliation burned deep, adding another layer of pain to the already overwhelming trauma she had endured. Her chest tightened, making it difficult to breathe as she struggled to maintain her composure in front of the crowd. The weight of everyone's eyes pressed down on her, suffocating and oppressive. She could feel the pitying glances, the judgmental stares, the hushed whispers beginning to ripple through the crowd. Her cheeks burned with shame, and she fought the urge to flee, to escape the crushing weight of her father's public rejection.

The stark contrast between Mike's warm praise for Kie and his cold dismissal of Kaylee was like a slap in the face. Every word of affection directed solely at her sister felt like another nail in the coffin of Kaylee's relationship with her father. The weight of his rejection pressed down on her, threatening to crush what little strength she had left.

Tears stung Kaylee's eyes as she fought to hold them back, not wanting to give her father the satisfaction of seeing her break. She clenched her fists at her sides, her nails digging crescents into her palms so hard she drew blood.

Kie, Elyna, Gael and Esme looked at Mike with utter disbelief and horror on behalf of Kaylee, looking at Kaylee in concern.

Isa, Lia, Sarah and Wheezie's eyes went wide in shock and worry as they looked from Mike on stage to Kaylee beside in them in the crowd.

Rafe raised his eyebrows in disbelief. Lia, Wheezie and Rafe were familiar with the same treatment from their own father when it came to Ward's favoritism with Sarah, but even Ward had never stooped so low publicly at a party for their family.

Rafe's anger at Kaylee's treatment from her family only rose when he saw it for himself in these circumstances.

Each one looked as if they were ready to say something to defend her, but Kaylee held up her hand to stop them. She couldn't take more confrontation and drama tonight. It was too much. Sensing she was at her limit, they each fell silent, not wanting to put her through more tonight.

Mike turned to Anna next to the stage. "But most of all..." He reached for Anna's hand. "Come here." As Anna took his hand and stepped onto the stage, the crowd cheered. "Thank you." Anna laughed. "For 15 years, for making this restaurant a symbol of our life." He looked at Anna. "I love you."

"I love you," Anna returned.

"Love you, Mike and Anna," a man called.

Mike put his arm around Anna, holding her to his chest as he returned his attention to the crowd. "Figure 8, the Cut. Everyone's together here. As one island. So, thank you for putting up with us."

Kaylee scoffed at the true hypocrisy of Mike's words when he couldn't even handle his Kook-born daughters being friends with and becoming and dating Pogues.

Anna raised her glass. "Cheers." The crowd followed suit. "Thank you all for coming."

Topper and Kelce smirked, enjoying the public humiliation Kaylee went through. Their plan to have her arrested didn't go through, but seeing her rejected by her own father in front of everyone was a solid compensation.

(Song:) Afterglow - Josh Rabenold

The band played the next song as Mike and Anna stepped off the stage.

Before anyone could say anything, Kaylee moved away through the crowd away from everyone, unable to face everyone's gazes. She didn't want people asking her if she was okay. She just wanted to disappear.

Rafe knew she needed an escape, helping her weave her way through the crowd, brushing people aside when he needed to. He leaned in close, his voice low. "You don't deserve this, Kaylee. They don't deserve you."

Kaylee turned to look at him, surprised by the intensity in his gaze.

"Let's get out of here," Rafe said, offering his hand. "I promised I could sweep you away when you needed the escape."

Kaylee hesitated, glancing back at the others for a moment before taking Rafe's hand. "I definitely need it."

Kaylee let him lead her away from the party. As they walked through the crowd, Kaylee kept her head down, not wanting to make eye contact with anyone. She could feel curious glances and whispers following them, but she tried to ignore it all. She just wanted to get away from the pain of what Mike did.

⚓️

Beach

Rafe guided Kaylee towards the beach, away from the lights and chatter of the party.

The sound of waves crashing against the shore grew louder as they approached the water's edge. When they were far enough away that the only thing they could hear from the party was the music, Rafe stopped and turned to face Kaylee.

"You okay?" Rafe asked, his voice uncharacteristically gentle.

Kaylee shook her head, unable to speak past the lump in her throat. She wrapped her arms around herself, suddenly feeling cold despite the warm night.

"What are we doing?" Kaylee whispered.

"You wanted to escape, right?" Rafe asked quietly.

Kaylee looked down, nodding barely. She didn't want to talk about it. She wanted to forget about it all, which he knew.

Rafe's eyes flickered over her appearance once again, admiring. "Lashing out or not, you look amazing. Not like that's any surprise."

Rafe tentatively touched her shoulder, running down her arm. Goosebumps spread across her skin, but Kaylee felt like she was on fire as Rafe's hands moved from her arm to her side, on her waist, his hand moving alluringly down her side. Once his hand was at her hips, he stopped and held her there, pulling her closer. They were body to body and his eyes traveled to her chest as it rose and fell from the deep breaths she was taking to calm herself down.

Rafe brought Kaylee out to the beach, holding her, to dance away from everyone else at the party, to get her away from the pain of her family.

Like before, Kaylee was relieved for the distraction and the escape from reality and her life. She started to sway with Rafe to the slow song, whispering. "Thank you."

Rafe held Kaylee against his chest, murmuring in her ear as he trailed a hand through her curls. "Anytime."

Rafe's grip tightened on Kaylee as he suddenly lifted her up into the air, spinning her around. Surprised, trying to keep balance, Kaylee placed her hands on his shoulders to steady herself; it was a move directly from their debutante ball rehearsals, and the memory caused Kaylee's breath to hitch.

As he set her down gently, their faces just inches apart, Rafe cupped the back of Kaylee's head and brought his lips to her forehead.

"You're safe here," Rafe whispered against her skin, the warmth of his breath sending shivers down her spine. "No one can hurt you. Not tonight. Not anymore."

Kaylee closed her eyes, letting herself bask in the moment, the chaos of the party fading into the background. It was just them, suspended in a bubble of their own creation, and for a fleeting second, she felt weightless.

"Rafe," Kaylee murmured, her heart racing as she pulled back slightly to meet his gaze. "I can't keep relying on you like this."

"Why not?" Rafe countered, his expression softening. "You don't have to go through this alone. You've proven yourself time and time again - you're stronger than you think. But strength doesn't mean you have to shoulder everything by yourself."

Kaylee's chest tightened at his words. She wanted to believe him; she longed to accept the comfort he offered without guilt or hesitation. Yet, a part of her hesitated, still hoping to reconcile with JJ even as they continued to push each other away. That part of her found comfort in Rafe when he was here for her when JJ wasn't.

But that part was also terrified of further entangling herself with Rafe, especially after everything. The memory of their previous kisses lingered at the back of her mind, reminding her of the thin line they walked between a hesitant friendship and something more.

Lingering guilt danced at the edges of her mind, reminding Kaylee of the mess that surrounded them. "What if I drag you down with me? Like I drag everyone down with me?"

Rafe stepped closer, his gaze unwavering. "You won't. You're not a burden to me, Kaylee. Or your friends."

Kaylee took a deep breath. "What if this is just a distraction? I don't want to hurt you."

Rafe shook his head. "I don't care if I'm just a distraction. I told you I don't mind. Would I like to be more? Yeah, you know I would want it all with you. But I know you're not ready for that. I'll take anything I can get with you, even if it's a distraction from everything else in your life. And I know that going in, so you won't hurt me. I promise."

An unexpected warmth bloomed in Kaylee's chest at his words as relief surged through her. Slowly, she reached up, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, allowing herself to feel vulnerable for just a moment.

"Rafe..." Kaylee started, but he interrupted gently.

"Just let it be for tonight," Rafe urged. "Don't think about everything else right now. Focus on us."

Kaylee hesitated for a moment, searching Rafe's eyes for any hint of doubt, but all she found was sincerity and warmth. Finally, she nodded, letting go of her fears just for tonight. "Okay, just tonight."

Rafe's face broke into a radiant smile, and in that moment, the world around them faded away. He leaned in closer, their foreheads touching as they swayed gently to the rhythm of the distant music that drifted over the waves.

With each beat, Kaylee felt the tension of the evening slip away, replaced by an exhilarating mix of hope and possibility. She wrapped her arms around Rafe's neck and leaned into him, feeling his warmth envelop her.

"See?" Rafe murmured against her hair. "This is nice."

"Yeah," Kaylee breathed, closing her eyes as she nestled closer. "It really is."

They swayed together under the setting sun, surrounded by the soft sounds of crashing waves on the shore. They both knew that they had to return to the party soon, but this escape was everything that Kaylee needed after what happened.

As they swayed under the fading light, Kaylee's heart raced not just from the lingering adrenaline of the earlier confrontations but from the warmth radiating between her and Rafe. This moment felt like an oasis amidst the chaos of their lives - a brief pause where the world melted away, leaving only them.

Rafe pulled back slightly, enough to search Kaylee's eyes for any sign of hesitation.

"You're really okay?" Rafe asked softly, his thumb brushing over her cheek.

"I am now," Kaylee admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. The vulnerability in his gaze made her feel seen in a way that few others had ever done outside of the Pogues.

"Good," Rafe replied, a hint of relief washing over his features. "Just remember you're not alone in this."

Rafe stepped back enough to take her hand in his, intertwining their fingers.

Kaylee chuckled slightly. "Thank you, Rafe. For everything."

Rafe gave her a slight smile in return. "No need to keep thanking me. But you're welcome. You ready to go back?"

Kaylee nodded, taking a deep breath. "Yeah. I'm not gonna let Topper, Kelce, Shoupe, Plumb or even my own dad keep me away from a party. No one's gonna scare me away."

Rafe smiled in pride. "That's my girl, firebird."

Kaylee smirked slightly in response.

As they made their way back to the party, a renewed sense of determination surged through Kaylee. The chaos of the earlier confrontation faded into the background.

⚓️

The Wreck - Outside

The music grew louder as Kaylee and Rafe approached the crowd again, pulsing with life and energy. Rafe squeezed her hand reassuringly, his confidence infectious. As they stepped back onto the dock outside The Wreck, Kaylee took a deep breath and let the vibrant atmosphere envelop her once more.

Kaylee broke away from Rafe and made her way toward the girls.

Isa, Lia, Kie, Sarah, Wheezie and Elyna lit up with relief when they saw Kaylee making her way toward them.

"Look who decided to come back!" Isa called out playfully, knowing the last thing Kaylee wanted was worry and concern.

Kaylee smiled in relief for Isa's intuitive attempt to lighten the atmosphere and attempt to cheer them up.

"I hope the little escape did you well," Lia told her.

"Yeah, it did," Kaylee answered. "Just needed a distraction and time to breathe."

Kie looked at Kaylee sadly as she placed a hand on her shoulder. "Of course. Are you okay?"

Kaylee nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine. It's not your fault, Kie."

"I see Rafe's helping you more than just with missions and life saving doctors," Sarah remarked.

Kaylee shook her head barely. "Don't ask."

Wheezie chuckled, mimicking a zipper over her mouth. "Lips sealed."

Elyna reached for Kaylee playfully as she pulled her closer. "Well, we're not letting douchenozzles ruin he night for us. Who's ready for some more fun?"

The girls cheered as they went out to get some more drinks and continue their night of celebration.

Gael and Esme watched them go proudly, smiling softly.

Sarah walked away to get her own drink and a breath of air alone, needing a moment to herself as well.

John B walked up behind Sarah, standing on the other side of a dock gate, whispering. "Psst. Sarah."

Sarah turned to face him, looking relieved but guilty to see him, dreading what she had to tell him.

John B smiled, walking around the gate toward her, instantly taking Sarah in his arms, relieved to be reunited with her. Right in this moment, he was the least numb that he had been ever since getting back to Outer Banks. With Isa, Kaylee and JJ, and Sarah, he looked the most happy and least traumatized and held down by all they had been through.

Which only hurt Sarah more when she knew what she had to tell him and that would likely change all too soon.

Sarah returned the embrace instantly. "Hi."

"Hi," John B replied. "Long time no see. Hey, come here. Come here, follow me. Come on." He led Sarah away from the party. "I have so much I have to tell you."

"Lia and Wheezie told me everything," Sarah admitted. "Are you guys okay? You and Isa, your dad..."

John B swallowed. "Uh, no. No, not really, but we found a lead."

Sarah nodded, knowing that since talking to Kaylee earlier. "Pope might find a lead too, going through his family's archives for El Dorado with Cleo."

John B was surprised by this, but excited. "Okay, we'll talk about that later. But first... Sarah, I--I'm--I'm sorry. For the way I talked to you at the Chateau."

"You were right," Sarah pointed out. "I wasn't ready to deal with what happened to me and my sisters. So why would you be ready to deal with what's happening with your family?"

John B shook his head. "That's no excuse. I'm sorry. Not just for that, but for not being there for you when you needed me."

Sarah looked even more guilty if possible. "It's fine. I mean, I wasn't exactly there for you either."

"We both messed up," John B mused, not knowing how far it actually went yet, as he reached up to brush some hair back from Sarah's face. "I missed you, Val."

Sarah managed a guilty smile, as she and John B embraced once again. "I missed you too, Vlad."

They pulled away.

"Hey, look, we gotta get out of here," John B told her. "We gotta go. Come on."

John B started to lead her away.

Sarah caught his hand, pulling him back. "No, no, no. Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait."

Sarah was freaking out, breathing heavily, knowing how bad this was going to be when she told him, given everything that happened, but knowing that he needed to know, scared that Lia and Wheezie were right; that this betrayal would in fact make John B snap after everything he had been going through.

John B frowned in confusion and concern. "Sarah, what--what's going on?"

Sarah took a moment to pull herself together. "Okay, before we go anywhere, before we do anything, I have something I need to tell you."

"Okay, talk to me," John B agreed easily, eyes on Sarah's face in concern.

Sarah couldn't look at him knowing that he had no idea, and the circumstances of what happened the night before. "I made a mistake. And... and it's not something I planned, and it's definitely not something I would ever do again. And..."

"What--what's going on, Sarah?" John B asked.

Sarah couldn't keep stalling, so she blurted it out to get it out of the way. "I kind of hooked up with Topper. Last night."

John B processed the words, stunned, looking away in shock, deeply hurt. "Oh."

Sarah shook her head slowly, turning her head to finally look at John B, tears already forming in her eyes as she looked at the heartbreak, the betrayal taking over his otherwise numb face. "It was a mistake."

John B looked up, but didn't know what to say, unable to look at Sarah, leaning forward against the wooden railing in front of him, trying to work this all out in his head.

Sarah swallowed. "And I wanna be with you, and I don't wanna hide anything."

John B had his fist to his lips as he closed his eyes, a single tear falling down his cheek, sighing heavily, lowering his hand to the railing.

Sarah tentatively reached out to him. "Lia and Wheezie got through to me about how selfish I was being and how dangerous Topper is, which I never should have forgotten, especially after everything that he did to you, to Isa and Pope. Especially after everything he and Kelce did after the bonfire with Kaylee. And what they just did with Kaylee. They almost got her arrested again. And Topper almost attacked me, Lia and Wheeze."

John B stood up straight, frowning in intensity and confusion. "What are you talking about, Sarah?"

"I'll explain it all," Sarah said. "But I just... Please say something."

John B turned to face her. "Sarah, Singh kidnapped my father, okay? He almost had me and Isa killed last night. He's taking our dad to South America to kill him. Not even just that, but everything that happened with Lia, Kaylee, JJ, Kie, Wheezie, Elyna, Pope and Cleo last night? While all of us were going through hell or almost dying, you were hooking up with Topper? The one person who helped make things hell for us before?"

Sarah swallowed. "I know. I'm sorry."

John B looked at Sarah in betrayal and sadness. "How could you do this? I trusted you. Till death do us part?"

Sarah tilted her head, heartbroken, guilt-ridden. "Please. John B."

John B shook his head, unable to deal with this right now. "We're done. Okay?"

John B started to walk away. Sarah let out a shaky breath. John B looked back over his shoulder at Sarah, but Sarah didn't notice as she turned her back to him, looking out over the water as she cried.

(Song Ends)

⚓️

Nightfall - The Party

(Song:) Breathe - Lauv

Kaylee had to step away from the party toward the pier, picking up a glass of wine on her way, downing it instantly, drinking it without hesitation until there was no more, before placing it down.

JJ was hiding by the boat to stay out of sight of Anna and Mike, while also trying to avoid Kaylee.

Kaylee noticed this, walking closer. "JJ?" JJ looked up, busted. "What are you doing?"

JJ slowly stood. "Just, uh, thought I should keep my distance." He pointed toward Anna and Mike. "Didn't really wanna spoil the party, if you know what I'm saying."

Kaylee crossed her arms over her chest. "If Carrera family drama and Topper and Kelce calling the cops on me couldn't ruin this party, I'm not sure what could."

JJ looked at Kaylee in surprise. "What now?"

Kaylee waved it off, minimizing the damage that it could have done. "Don't worry about it. Nothing happened in the end. Shoupe walked away because of Esme's 'untouchable' claim on me and the others working with her on the Laurent case."

JJ nodded. "That's awesome then."

"Yep," Kaylee said.

Kaylee and JJ were both aware of the awkward tension between them after the several days they had spent pushing each other away in an attempt to protect each other, neither one of them in a mentally good place to be in a relationship with each other. In addition, JJ stealing Mike's money clip and adding to why Mike cut ties with Kaylee completely and started to take down the Pogue Nest and left Kaylee homeless if not for Esme's cabin only added turmoil between them - although Kaylee kept that a secret from JJ as she didn't want him to blame himself, as he was already blaming himself for not being able to protect her from everything that had already happened, and his insecurities had him thinking that he was a failure in comparison to everything that Rafe was doing to help Kaylee despite the past rivalry of Rafe vs. the Pogues. Especially when JJ knew that Kaylee was changing and accepting her inner darkness instead of fighting against it, and he knew that Rafe was a large reason why.

JJ looked over Kaylee's party outfit, not surprised in he least after what her parents did, knowing Kaylee well enough that she would lash out somehow. He was surprised that she had managed to get her hands on a diamond chain dress like this, but he was definitely drawn in.

JJ bit his lip slightly as he tilted his head. "Revenge was on the party menu, I see."

Kaylee smirked slightly at JJ's reaction, liking that she got this reaction even though he was doing everything in his power to push her away again. "Absolutely. Nothing's sweeter than revenge."

JJ raised his eyebrows in acknowledgement, unable to help a small smile. "I like."

Kaylee chuckled barely. "Yeah, it's the hit of the night. You should see how the other girls look."

JJ returned the chuckle. "Let me guess. Elyna dressed you girls up."

"Yeah," Kaylee answered. "It was worth it."

JJ's smile faded as he remembered what he had been trying to do with pushing her away, clearing his throat, looking down awkwardly.

Not surprised that JJ went back to trying to push her away again, Kaylee sighed shakily, hurt. "Jayj, I've been wanting to talk to you - really talk to you - since we got back from the island. But you've been making that really hard to do. It's all I can think about."

JJ didn't deny the true claim, looking down.

Kaylee bit her lip. "Who are you hiding from? My parents? Or me?" JJ looked at her, sighing, not needing to answer for Kaylee to know. Kaylee nodded. "Yeah, I thought so."

JJ glanced toward the party, noticing that Mike was glaring toward them. "Though hiding out here seems to be a waste because you found me and your dad sees me. But, uh, if you could let Mike know that I don't feel bad about the money clip. Okay? Just let him know I actually needed it. So thank him for me, actually. And Anna, too. Appreciate that. Thank you."

Kaylee swallowed at the words, wincing as she looked down, hurt. Normally, she wouldn't care that JJ stole from her dad. But knowing that JJ's recklessness helped lead to her father tearing down her childhood sanctuary and even led to her nearly falling through the steps and getting hurt or worse that morning while getting her things - it tore at her heart more than she expected it would.

It also made her more angry than she expected, that JJ never thought of the consequences that she could face at the hands of his recklessness even when he knew the state of her family and how Mike turned everything into her fault - including JJ stealing from him, and how he would find a way to take it all out on her. How her father was only looking for a reason to abandon her, which was exactly what he did in every form today.

Kaylee clenched her fists, fighting back the rising tide of frustration and hurt. "You think stealing from my dad is just fine? You think it doesn't matter? Look where we are because of all of this, JJ. You don't even consider how it affects me."

JJ ran a hand through his hair, guilt etched on his face. "I didn't plan for it to turn into all this, Kaylee. I swear. I just thought... I thought I was helping you out."

"Helping me?" Kaylee repeated incredulously. "How does causing more chaos help me? You're not seeing the bigger picture here!"

JJ opened his mouth to respond, but the weight of her words hung heavily in the air. He glanced back towards the party, then met her gaze again, and for a moment, she could see the internal battle he was fighting.

"Look," JJ started hesitantly, "I just wanted to take control of something in my life."

"And in doing so, I lost control of everything left in mine," Kaylee replied.

"What are you talking about?" JJ asked tightly.

Kaylee bit her lip, unable to hold it in anymore. "My dad was just looking for a reason to tear down the Pogue Nest. But you stealing from him and me refusing to go to a wilderness cuckoo nest sealed the deal. He started taking it down this morning, and it's already in shambles."

JJ's expression shifted from defensive to one of shock and guilt. "What? He - he did what?"

Kaylee's heart sank at the look on his face, a mixture of surprise and regret. "He started tearing it down, JJ. I went to get my things, and I was almost hurt because of it. He never cared about giving me time to get my stuff out. He took it down just like that."

JJ ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident in his posture. "I can't believe this. I didn't know - if I'd known--"

"I know you didn't," Kaylee interrupted, her voice tightening with emotion. "But that's just it. You don't think these things through, and it ends up hurting more than helping."

"You think I wanted any of this?" JJ shot back, his eyes flashing with hurt that mirrored Kaylee's own, frustration boiling beneath the surface. "I didn't know he was going to destroy it! I just needed the cash!"

Kaylee shook her head, disappointment washing over her. "You don't get it, do you? You might think this is just about you and your problems. But everything you do has consequences for me, for all of us. This isn't some game."

"I know that!" JJ snapped. "But you don't understand what it's like to feel powerless. To feel like you're fighting against everything in your life and losing."

Kaylee scoffed in disbelief at his words, taking a step back as if the words were a physical blow. "I don't understand that? After everything that happened, how can you say that to me?"

JJ's face fell in realization as he thought back to everything they both went through. Kaylee had never had power before - she was just barely reclaiming it.

JJ swallowed. "Kay, I'm sorry. Okay? I didn't mean it like that. It just feel like I'm making everything worse for you. You always deserved better than me. Plus, I was so fucking happy to have you as a friend. Kaylee Carrera hanging out with the Pogues? With me? It seemed too good to be true." He gave a humorless laugh. "A stroke of luck in my otherwise terrible life."

"Jayj--" Kaylee began.

JJ shook his head. "And to be honest, asking for more from you would have been selfish. And I did exactly that. Now look where we are. It didn't work out. It was a mistake to think it ever could, especially if it meant putting you at risk."

Kaylee's heart sank at JJ's words, an ache building in her chest. She didn't want to feel like this, especially not now. She forced a smile, but it felt hollow. "So, you're just going to run away again? After everything?"

JJ winced, the guilt flashing across his face. "I'm not running away. I just thought it'd be better to give you space, like you asked for. I don't want to make things worse for you. Every time I'm around... I feel like I'm just dragging you down."

Kaylee's breath caught in her throat as she searched his eyes, trying to find the boy she knew beneath the wall he was building between them. "We're not going through this again, JJ." She stepped closer, narrowing the distance he had created. "I know your worth. And if you think I'll stand here and agree that you're some worthless piece of shit from the Cut, then you don't know me at all."

"Look around," JJ said. "That's exactly who I am."

Kaylee was shaking her head before he could finish. "Listen, I don't know where you got the idea that this happened to us because of who you are, where you're from, or where I'm from, but just to set the record straight, that has never mattered to me, JJ. Not once."

JJ closed his eyes, exhaling slowly. "Yeah, well, maybe it should matter to you. Maybe you'd be better off if it did."

"That's such bullshit, and you know it," Kaylee retorted sharply. "You're just trying to push me away again because you're scared. And I'm tired of this, the constant back and forth, with you blaming yourself for not protecting me when it wasn't your job."

JJ threw his hands up in mock surrender, his eyes wild. "You got me, Kay." He stepped closer suddenly, right in front of her, his previous restraint forgotten. "I am scared. You're right. I'm scared because you're the most incredible person I've ever met, and I couldn't do anything to keep you safe. Hell, it seems to me the only one that can keep you safe the way I want to if the one I tried to protect you from. Rafe saved your life more than once, and he's the one that's been there for you when I wasn't. And it makes me so pissed off."

"At me?" Kaylee asked weakly, vulnerable with fear laced in her voice that she could lose JJ. "For being around Rafe?"

"No," JJ answered, frustrated. "At me for not being able to protect you like he did. For not being able to clear your name like he did. For not being able to bring you home like he did. For not being there when you needed me like he was. That's on me. I know that. And I hate him so much for it. But I hate myself for it just as much."

Kaylee felt the weight of JJ's words settle heavily in the air between them. His raw emotion poured out like water from a broken dam, and it made her heart ache. "JJ, you can't keep blaming yourself for things that were out of your control. And neither can I."

JJ's eyes shone with a mix of anger and hurt. "But I should have figured it out! How to help you."

"That's not fair," Kaylee countered, stepping closer to him. "You're not responsible for everything that happens in my life. I've had to fight my own battles for a long time now. Believe me, I don't want you to take that on for me."

JJ swallowed hard, pain flickering across his face. "I want to help you, Kaylee. That's why I'm so frustrated." His fists clenched at his sides, shaking from pent-up energy. "I want to be the one helping you. Not Rafe. But I can't help you the way he can. I don't have the money or the resources or connections..."

Kaylee reached out to take JJ's hand. "Jayj, you damn well that I don't give a damn about any of that."

JJ swallowed. "Maybe you should. If it's the only way to save you."

Kaylee shook her head. "I don't give a fuck about what or who can save me, okay? Because I'll make it through, with you and the Pogues, and yes, Rafe is helping. But that doesn't change the fact that I love you."

JJ's eyes widened at Kaylee's words, a mix of emotions flickering across his face. He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again, as if wrestling with what to say. Finally, he took a deep breath, his gaze softening as he looked at her.

"I love you too, Kay," JJ said, his voice barely above a whisper. "That's why this is so damn hard."

JJ ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident in the gesture. The sound of waves crashing against the shore filled the silence between them, a rhythmic backdrop to the tension in the air.

"But I've seen the way you look at him," JJ continued, his voice strained. "The way you two interact. It's... different now."

Kaylee felt her heart skip a beat, caught off guard by JJ's observation. She hadn't realized her changing dynamic with Rafe was so obvious, and she feared that she could lose JJ.

"I don't love him," Kaylee told him quickly. "I could never love him like I love you."

"I know that," JJ told her quickly, reassuringly. "I do. And I'm sure he knows that, too. But look me in the eye and say that you don't feel something for him after everything that's happened. After he's saved your life more than once. And helped you through everything and the way he's been there for you. And helped you escape from everything you wanted to escape from."

Kaylee hesitated, her heart racing as she felt the weight of JJ's words. She had never intended to complicate things between them, but she couldn't ignore the connection she'd formed with Rafe after everything they had been through together. It was confusing, and part of her feared that acknowledging it out loud would only drive a wedge deeper between her and JJ.

"JJ, I love you," Kaylee started slowly, searching for the right words. "You know that. You always have my back, even when things are tough. But Rafe... he understands what I'm going through in ways I didn't expect."

JJ was not surprised or even judgmental. "So there is something, then?"

Kaylee felt desperation creep into her voice. "It's not like that. Rafe just--he's been a distraction. A way to cope with everything that's happened. A way to forget. All the pain and confusion and everything going on with the Laurents and my family and... just everything I want to forget.

JJ raised his eyebrows at this, not sure how to process that. "He's been letting you use him as a distraction."

"He's more than happy with that," Kaylee admitted, even as guilt threatened to swallow her whole. "But... I feel so bad. Because of everything that happened. I don't want to lose what we have. But everything's so complicated right now."

JJ stepped closer to Kaylee, his frustration shifting to concern. "Complicated? What's complicated is that you're hurting and you need someone who can be there for you, and I want to be that person. But how do I compete with Rafe? He swoops in like some knight in shining armor while I'm just... me."

"But you're the one I trust," Kaylee insisted. "You're the one I love. You're the one that I want. And I don't want this to make me lose you."

JJ took Kaylee by the hands. "Listen to me, Kay. Nothing that happens with you and him will make you lose me. I swear to you. Because you have nothing to feel sorry for. I basically pushed you toward him, when all of this started, when we first got back to OBX, and I wasn't there for you when he was. So you don't get to blame yourself for this, okay? I don't need to know what happened or whatever happens, alright? I just need you to know that whatever does... I'm not gonna hold it against you."

Kaylee felt a rush of relief wash over her as JJ's words sunk in, piercing through the cocoon of anxiety that had wrapped itself around her heart. "You seriously mean that?"

"Of course I do," JJ replied, squeezing her hands tightly. "I don't want to lose you either. You're not just some girl in my life. You're everything. And if you need to figure things out with Rafe or whoever else, that's okay, too. I just want us to figure this out together, no matter how messy it gets."

Kaylee looked deep into his eyes, searching for the sincerity that had once led her to him in the first place. It was still there - buried beneath layers of insecurity and fear but very much alive. Her heart swelled, and she could feel the tension slowly melting away.

Kaylee chuckled in relief, a small smile creeping onto her lips. "Where did that understanding come from?"

"Isa trying to kick my ass into shape earlier, honestly," JJ answered. "She tried to talk sense into me. My dumbass just didn't hear her until now."

Kaylee laughed lightly, and JJ smiled in return, smiling in relief that he managed to make her laugh.

"Okay," Kaylee breathed. "We can take it one day at a time. Just... promise me we won't pretend everything is fine when it's not."

JJ nodded earnestly, his expression serious. "I promise."

A comfortable silence settled between them as they stood on the dock, the sound of waves crashing against the shore creating an intimate backdrop for the moment. The world around them faded into a blur, and in this moment, it felt like there was no one else but them breathing the same air. The tension and the awkwardness and the distance - the wall that JJ had worked so hard to build between them - seemed to crumble. Everything wasn't fixed instantly, but everything felt a little less impossible and overwhelming than it did before.

(Song Ends)

(Song:) Fooled Around and Fell In Love - Elvin Bishop Cover

The next song played by the live band.

Elsewhere in the party, John B joined Isa, Kie, Lia, Wheezie and Elyna. "Hey."

"Hey," Isa replied. "Are you okay?"

John B shook his head barely. "Sarah just told me that she kissed Topper last night. While the rest of us were going through hell, she was hanging out with the Kooks that put us through hell and cheating on me, while Isa and I were almost killed and our dad was kidnapped."

Isa looked at her brother sympathetically. "I'm sorry, John B. I know it sucks, but Sarah's going through something too."

John B swallowed. "I know. I just... she said something about Topper and Kelce earlier. What did she mean?"

"We're pretty sure that Topper had Kelce call Shoupe to try and have Kaylee arrested during the party earlier," Kie explained. "In front of everyone, trying to humiliate her. To get back at her for humiliating them at Rafe's party earlier. Esme, Gael, the rest of us and some other people on the island stood up for her, and our mom even did, but our father left her out to rot."

John B closed his eyes in concern.

"That's after Topper got pissed at me, Sarah, Wheezie and Rafe," Lia continued. "He delusionally thought that one kiss thought that he and Sarah were back together, and she told him to back off, and Wheezie and I told him off. He got pissed off and tried to attack us."

"Rafe showed up and hurt Topper to keep him from touching us," Wheezie continued. "Sarah was really shaken up, but Lia threatened him if he ever tried to hurt her again."

"So Topper wanted to be a little bitch and had Kelce call the cops to punish Kaylee to get back at everyone for that and likely all of us calling him out on the ferry the other day when we went on the cross heist," Elyna pointed out.

John B was filled with anger at hearing all of this - as Lia and Wheezie suspected, he was so close to snapping after the disappearance of his father on top of all of this. Topper's antics against Sarah and the rest of their loved ones would only further send John B in a downward spiral.

After telling John B about cheating on him and their breakup, Sarah was standing alone, finding a glass of wine, drinking it, tears drying on her cheeks.

Topper walked up to her, attempting to talk to her once again when he knew that Sarah was alone - separated from her friends and her siblings, and clearly vulnerable and upset, seeing her with tears on her face. He knew that if he had an opening to get to her, it was now. "Hey, hey, hey, hey. What are you doing?"

"Nothing," Sarah replied.

"Why did you chug that?" Topper asked.

"That's my drink," Sarah said.

"Are you crying?" Topper asked. "Hey, what's going on? Talk to me." Sarah sniffed. "What happened?"

"I don't want to talk to you, Topper," Sarah replied. "I know you had Kelce call Shoupe to try and get Kaylee arrested. She didn't deserve all that."

Topper clearly didn't care. "I thought I was doing a service."

Sarah's eyes narrowed as she met Topper's gaze, the hurt and anger swirling within her making it hard to breathe. "A service? You think humiliating someone who's already been through hell is a service? You don't get to pick and choose who deserves mercy or kindness."

Topper stepped closer, his voice lowering into a conspiratorial whisper. "You don't know how they really are, Sarah. They're all just trying to play the hero while they stab us in the back. I thought you wanted to be on my side."

The softness in his tone twisted into something insidious, like a vine creeping around her heart, squeezing tighter with every word.

Sarah stumbled back away from Topper. "My side? You mean the side that nearly drowned my boyfriend last year? Or the side that hurt my sister? And all my friends? Your side is exactly what led us here, Topper! You think hurting them is going to fix anything between us?"

Topper shrugged, a cocky smirk plastered on his face. "It was just a little reminder of who has the power around here. They're just Pogues. They're all beneath us."

"That's where you're wrong," Sarah said, taking another step back, feeling the anger rise within her like a tide. "You don't get to decide who's beneath whom. You don't see the bigger picture at all."

Topper's expression hardened as he stepped closer, invading Sarah's space. "You're only saying that because you're upset with me. You need to remember who was there for you when things got hard."

Sarah stumbled back nervously. "I don't need your twisted sense of loyalty. You think I owe you something? I don't owe you anything, Topper!"

The argument drew the attention of John B, Isa, Kie, Lia, Wheezie and Elyna from nearby, all of whom looked at Sarah worriedly as Topper attempted to close in on her.

When Topper reached to grab Sarah, John B's control snapped. Despite his sadness and betrayal given Sarah's unfaithfulness, he loved her more than anything, and he refused to let her be hurt.

"Get your hands off her!" John B shouted as he surged forward, adrenaline pumping through him.

John B rushed forward in protective fury just as Topper reached for Sarah, yanking him back by the shoulder. The sudden movement caught Topper off guard, and he stumbled slightly, a look of surprise crossing his face.

Topper sneered, trying to maintain his composure despite the shock of John B's intervention. "What are you going to do, John B? Play the hero again?"

"I'm not playing anything," John B said, his voice steady but low. "Just back off. You've done enough damage already - more than you can ever fix."

A tense silence hung in the air, the partygoers around them falling quiet as they watched the scene unfold. The energy shifted, and whispers began to ripple through the crowd.

Isa stepped forward beside John B, her expression fierce as she glared at Topper. "You need to back off, Topper. This isn't your place."

Isa glanced at Sarah to ensure she was okay.

Sarah looked at Isa and John B in relief.

Topper scoffed, glancing at Isa with disdain. "Yeah? And what are you going to do about it, Isa? You think any of you can do a damn thing to stop me?"

Lia and Wheezie ran over to Sarah, taking their sister by the hands. Sarah held onto her little sisters' hands tightly, comforted by their support.

Kie and Elyna stalked closer.

Kie glared at Topper. "I think it's time you leave my parents' party. Now."

Topper smirked snidely. "I think it's clear that your parents don't listen to you, or to Kaylee by this point, Kie."

Kie winced as if the words were a physical blow.

"Don't you dare bring Kaylee and Kie's family into this," John B warned, stepping even closer to Topper, his temper flaring.

Elyna glared at Topper angrily. "You've had your fun with your little mind games, but tonight is done. We're not playing by your rules anymore."

Topper's bravado faltered as he saw the defiance radiating from the group surrounding Sarah. He glanced around, assessing the crowd that had gathered - a sea of familiar faces, each one ready to stand against him. The realization began to set in that he was outnumbered and that his intimidation tactics were falling flat.

"You're all pathetic," Topper sneered, though the confidence in his voice began to waver. "Still clinging to your little friendship circle like it means something."

"Better than being a bully who hides behind wealth and privilege," Isa shot back, her eyes blazing with determination. "You think you can just walk in here and intimidate us because you think you're better? You are nothing but a spoiled little thug."

Topper reached out as if to grab Isa, causing John B to reach out to retaliate in defense of his sister.

Isa was ready to defend herself even as John B moved to shield his sister.

"Don't even think about it, Topper," John B growled, his voice low and dangerous.

Kaylee and JJ reached their friends side just as Rafe came to see the drama unfolding from the other side, all three of them in utter disbelief to see what was going on.

JJ stepped forward instantly upon seeing Topper nearly grabbing Isa, standing beside Isa and John B as his surrogate sister and brother.

JJ's voice was low but menacing, sending an unspoken warning through the crowd. "You better think twice before you lay a hand on her, Topper."

Topper hesitated, sizing up JJ, who had always been a wild card, before his eyes shifted to Kaylee.

Kaylee was glaring at Topper with rage as she circled toward the Pogues, eyes flickering to Isa as she ensured her best friend was okay. Isa confirmed with a nod.

Topper sneered at Kaylee. "What are you going to do? Throw another tantrum like before?"

Kaylee smirked, her eyes narrowing into slits. "You've got it all wrong. I'm not here for theatrics. I'm here to remind you that you're out of your league."

A hush fell over the crowd, tension hanging thick in the air as the group stood united against Topper's arrogance. The Kooks who lingered began to back away, sensing that this confrontation was not going to end in their favor.

It was clear that neither John B or Topper were interested in backing down, a fight brewing in their midst.

Lia placed a hand on John B's shoulder to try and calm him down. "No, not right here, John B."

Sarah was worried because Lia and Wheezie warned her that John B's downward spiral could happen. "No, no. John B! It's not worth it."

"I'd say after everything that prick did today to all of you, it'd be more than worth it," JJ retorted. "Get his ass, John B."

Wheezie shot him a look. "Not helping, JJ."

"John B!" Kie warned. "We're not doing this."

Yet, like every one of John B and Topper's fights before, especially when John B was defending his sister and loved ones, there was no stopping this one.

John B shoved Topper back, making him stumble back several paces. "Feel good about yourself, Top?"

"Stop!" Lia said.

"You both need to chill before I take both of your asses down," Elyna warned. "And don't think I won't do it."

John B shoved Topper again. "You like messing with my friends? My sister? My relationship? Sarah's relationship with her sisters?"

"We're not ruining Mike and Anna's party right now," Wheezie told them.

"That's really what you're worried about, Wheezie?" Topper taunted.

"Both of you just walk away," Sarah ordered.

Sarah glanced at John B in concern. She knew why he was lashing out like this - to protect her, his sister, his friends, finally spiraling out and snapping after everything he had been through with his family. She couldn't blame him for that.

Yet as Sarah looked at Topper, she knew that he was doing this out of a display of power and strength. As a way to hurt the Pogues and make a mockery of them. And she had never hated him more than she did now. She had never regretted kissing him and spending time with him last night more than she did now.

Topper tried to punch John B.

John B ducked, shoving Topper back. "Feel good about yourself?"

Mike and Anna were about to get involved, glaring at all of the teens involved. Mike was specifically glaring at the Pogues - especially Kaylee.

Gael and Esme intercepted Mike and Anna before they could intervene, hoping to keep the Pogues from getting blamed for something that Topper started, while the Pogues were only defending themselves and each other.

Kaylee rolled her eyes, turning to her cousin. "Elyna."

Elyna glanced at Kaylee.

Kaylee nodded to Topper and John B, knowing that Elyna of all people could tear them apart before their shoving could turn into a real brawl.

Elyna nodded in agreement, finishing her glass of wine, tossing her glass down, uncaring as it shattered against the ground. She walked confidently toward Topper and John B to break up the fight before it could truly begin. With her fighting expertise, it would take only a few simple moves to stop them both.

As Topper lunged at John B, his fist cocked back for a vicious blow, Elyna moved with fluid grace and lightning speed. In one smooth motion, she stepped between the two boys, her emerald jumpsuit shimmering under the party lights as she pivoted on her heel.

Time seemed to slow as Elyna's hand shot out, catching Topper's wrist mid-swing. Using his own momentum against him, she twisted his arm behind his back, simultaneously sweeping his legs out from under him with a low kick.

Topper's eyes widened in shock as he suddenly found himself airborne, the world spinning around him. Before he could even process what was happening, his back slammed into the wooden dock with a resounding thud that knocked the wind out of him.

Elyna maintained her grip on Topper's wrist, applying just enough pressure to keep him pinned beneath her.

"Now, are you going to stand down, or do I need to give you a real lesson in humility?" Elyna asked coolly, her voice steady as she locked eyes with Topper.

John B blinked in surprise, his anger momentarily forgotten as he witnessed Elyna's swift and calculated maneuver, unable to hide the admiration in his tone. "Hot damn. Where you been hiding that, Elyna?"

Elyna winked in return. "Not hiding, John B."

JJ's eyebrows shot up. "Wow. Nice one, Ely."

The crowd gasped collectively, a mix of shock and awe rippling through them. No one had expected Elyna to intervene like that, but it was a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the Pogues - especially when they stood united.

Topper squirmed beneath Elyna's grip, his bravado evaporating in an instant, panicking as he realized he was at a disadvantage. "Let me go!"

"Not until you promise to back off and leave Sarah and the rest of us alone," Elyna replied.

"I think that's more than fair," Isa pointed out smugly. "You guys?"

"Absolutely," Kaylee quipped.

"100%, especially after he almost attacked us earlier," Lia answered.

Wheezie crossed her arms over her chest, nodding in agreement. "Uh-huh."

"Just say you'll leave us alone, Topper," Sarah told him. "Please."

Topper muttered under his breath. "Okay."

Elyna looked over her shoulder toward the others. "Did you guys hear that?"

Kie shook her head. "We didn't hear that."

"Nada," Kaylee agreed.

"Not a peep," Wheezie chimed in.

"Little louder for the ones of us in the back," Lia mocked.

Rafe enjoyed the show, smirking at how the Pogues stood up against Topper like this.

Elyna twisted Topper's arm further to make him gasp in pain, showing just how serious she was.

Topper clenched his jaw, desperation flooding his features. "Fine! I promise! Just let me up!"

Elyna tilted her head slightly, considering his words before releasing him, giving his arm a shove as she backed away from him. "You better mean it, Topper. Because if I so much as hear your name again in relation to any of us, I won't think twice about reminding you who you're messing with."

Topper scrambled to his feet, brushing off his clothes with a mixture of embarrassment and anger. He shot a glare at the group surrounding him, but he knew he was outmatched.

Still, Topper couldn't walk away without one more taunt. "Hey, no hard feelings, right?"

Sarah shot him a glare, knowing that could push John B or someone else over the edge again. "Topper, shut up."

John B's rage flared again in an instant, tongue in cheek as he turned on Topper.

"We good?" Topper asked mockingly, intentionally provoking him.

Isa looked at John B, exasperated and fed up to this point. "One punch. That's it."

"That's all you get," Kie agreed. "No more."

John B was good enough with that, nodding.

JJ grinned. "Get him, JB."

Lia patted John B on the shoulder. "Make it count."

John B's eyes flashed with a dangerous glint as he stepped forward, his fists clenching at his sides. The air around him seemed to crackle with tension, every muscle in his body coiled tight like a spring ready to release.

Time seemed to slow as John B drew back his arm, channeling all the pent-up anger and frustration of the past months into this single moment. The crowd held its collective breath, anticipation hanging heavy in the air.

With a swift, powerful motion, John B's fist connected squarely with Topper's jaw. The impact resonated through the dock, the sound of knuckles meeting flesh echoing across the water.

Topper's head snapped back, his eyes wide with shock as the force of the blow lifted him off his feet. For a split second, he seemed suspended in mid-air, defying gravity as the punch's momentum carried him off the ground. As he fell back and collapsed onto the dock, he was unconscious before he fell onto the wood.

The crowd around them watched in disbelief, some in awe while others were horrified.

Isa, Kaylee, Lia, JJ, Kie, Sarah and Wheezie lit up with pride and admiration.

John B and Elyna smiled in triumph.

(Song Ends)

John B looked at Elyna with newfound respect, holding out his fist for a fist bump. "We need to teach you the handshake ASAP."

Everyone laughed in agreement.

Elyna smiled as she did a fist bump with John B in return. "Excited to learn."

Isa grinned as she wrapped her arm around John B and Elyna's shoulders. "Oh, that was epic, you two."

"Seriously, Elyna," Kie added, clapping Elyna on the back as she smiled at her cousin. "That was amazing."

Kaylee threw her arm around Elyna's other side as she gave Isa a wink. "Elyna's full Pogue initiation, anyone?"

"Abso-fucking-lutely," JJ answered. "We should set up our own party to do the ceremony officially tomorrow night or something to celebrate your plane heist success."

Lia grinned. "That would be perfect."

Sarah nodded in agreement. "Let's do it." She looked at John B timidly. "If you'll have me."

John B nodded, biting his lip. Even if they were broken up for now, he would always view Sarah as a Pogue.

Wheezie smiled at Elyna excitedly. "My full Pogue initiation party was awesome. Yours will be so fun, too, I promise."

Elyna grinned in return. "It better be. Because I am the life of the party, so my initiation party better be a blast."

Everyone laughed.

However, their fun was disrupted when Mike's rage cut through their celebratory cheers as he stormed closer, furious about how their showdown with Topper disrupted the rest of his party.

Mike pointed at the Pogues as if they were to blame for all of this. "That's what I'm talking about! All of you get out of here!"

Mike glared at Kaylee, struggling to even look at his daughter, as if believing she was the catalyst, the match that ignited this disaster.

Everyone knew that it would be futile to try and reason with Mike, but Gael and Esme would defend their daughter Elyna and their nieces Kaylee and Kie, along with their friends every time.

"Mike, this wasn't their fault," Gael warned his brother. "Don't you dare treat them like it was."

"I don't give a damn who's fault it was, Gael," Mike retorted. "All I care about is that chaos follows them wherever they go. And I don't want it around my daughters anymore. And I don't want Kaylee around my family any longer if she has anything to do with it. And she causes it just as much as any of them. She is the cause of it most of the damn time. I'm done with it."

"That's not fair," Esme told him. "After everything these kids have been through, how can you say that?"

"I don't care about what they've been through," Mike replied. "All I want is for them to be off my property before I call the cops back here and have all of them arrested for starting fights and chaos and the boys for trespassing. Don't think for a second that I won't."

Kaylee felt her heart drop at Mike's words, the sting of his rejection cutting deeper than any punch she had thrown that night. The weight of his anger was suffocating, and she struggled to find her voice amidst the chaos swirling around them.

"Dad, please," Kie pleaded, stepping forward. Her eyes glimmered with desperation and confusion. "You can't honestly think that we wanted any of this to happen. We were just trying to enjoy the party."

"Enjoying the party?" Mike mocked, his voice rising as he pointed at the commotion around them. "This isn't a party; it's a circus! And you're all acting like clowns!"

"Mike," Anna pleaded.

Elyna stepped in front of her cousins, emboldened by the support of their friends. "Maybe if you understood how much pressure Kaylee and Kie are under, you wouldn't treat them like this. They're fighting for their lives, Uncle Mike!"

Kaylee's voice trembled but remained resolute as she stepped forward. "You can treat me like I'm some sort of mistake all you want. You've done that my entire life. But I refuse to let you do the same to Kie, Elyna and our friends."

The other Pogues looked at Kaylee in disbelief and awe, sadness and sympathy.

"You want to talk about mistakes?" Mike shot back, bitterness lacing his words as he glared at Kaylee. "Look around you! This is what you bring into our lives - drama, chaos. I can't keep my family safe when you're constantly dragging us deeper into this mess."

A chorus of disbelief rippled through the crowd as Kaylee's friends rallied behind her. They each stepped closer, a united force against the impending storm.

"Enough!" Gael interjected, stepping in front of the Pogues protectively. "You need to take a hard look in the mirror, Mike. These kids have been through hell, and instead of supporting them, you're pushing them away. You're tearing your own family apart with your refusal to see the truth."

Mike's expression hardened as he faced Gael, the tension between them escalating. "And what truth is that? That Kaylee is a victim? That she gets a free pass just because she was scared? It doesn't matter! She needs to be accountable for her actions!"

Kaylee's heart raced at her father's accusation, her breath hitching in her throat. "I already told you, Dad! I've paid for everything I've done - more than anyone should ever have to endure!"

"You can't keep dragging this family into your mess," Mike shot back. "I won't allow it anymore!"

The Pogues and Rafe all glared at Mike incredulously in anger, but before they could say anything that would undoubtedly make the argument worse, Esme spoke to try and ease the tensions.

"What you see as chaos is a family fighting for its survival," Esme said calmly but firmly. "Kaylee and Kie and their friends have faced horrors that would break most people, and instead of supporting them, you're casting them aside like they're the problem. That's not just unfair; it's cruel."

Mike hesitated, the heat of his anger flickering as Esme's words sunk in. But stubbornness still painted his features, creating lines of conflict in the furrow of his brow. "You think I haven't tried, Esme? Every day I'm trying to keep this family together!"

"Together?" Elyna echoed incredulously, stepping forward beside her parents, standing tall next to Gael and Esme. "Together doesn't mean isolating your daughters or pushing away the people who care about them."

Kaylee shook her head dejectedly. "But you're obviously too far gone to care. So if you want us gone, we're gone. As you fucking wish."

Kaylee turned around and walked away through the crowd without another word or look back. The crowd separated as she stalked her way through the dock, parting for her as she made her way toward the pier.

Kie glared at Mike and Anna in betrayal and sadness as she turned to follow her sister through the crowd.

Elyna stared her uncle and aunt down in disappointed anger before looking at her parents in gratitude before turning to follow her cousins.

Isa, Lia, John B, JJ, Sarah and Wheezie quickly followed their friends in concern but admiration for the way they stood up against their family in front of the entire island.

Sarah: (voice over) "Why do people do the things they do? I guess it's not really the 'why' that I'm most interested in. It's another question. How far can you go down the wrong path before it's too late to get on the right one?"

As Kaylee reached the end of the dock, she paused, taking a moment to collect herself. The cool breeze brushed against her skin, but it did little to soothe the heat rising within. The confrontation with her father had ripped open old wounds, and now all she felt was a mix of anger and heartbreak.

Kie caught up with her, wrapping an arm around her sister's shoulders.

"Hey," Kie said softly, searching Kaylee's face for any signs of comfort. "You okay?"

Kaylee shook her head, tears brimming in her eyes as she gazed out at the dark water below. "I just... can't believe he did that. After everything."

Kie squeezed her tighter. "I know. It's not fair."

"None of it is," Kaylee whispered. "I tried so hard to make them see us differently, but all they see is the chaos."

"You're not chaos; you're brave," Kie insisted fiercely. "You've survived so much chaos, but that doesn't mean that's what you are."

Elyna walked toward her cousins in concern. "Are you okay?"

Kaylee turned to Elyna, her expression a mixture of frustration and sorrow. "I don't know if I'll ever be okay, Ely. Not while my dad sees me as the enemy."

Elyna reached out, placing a comforting hand on Kaylee's back. "He's just scared, Kaylee. He doesn't understand what you've all been through, and he's taking it out on you because he doesn't know how else to handle it."

Kaylee shook her head, fresh tears spilling down her cheeks. "It shouldn't matter. I thought family was supposed to support each other. Instead, it feels like I'm fighting against them every single day. It feels like no matter what I do, it's never enough for them."

Elyna stepped closer, her expression softening. "You're not defined by their expectations, Kay. You're your own person, and you've fought harder than anyone I know. What we're facing - it's not just about them. It's about who we are and what we stand for."

Kie nodded vigorously, brushing a stray hair out of Kaylee's face. "We fight for each other because we've always been stronger together. Let's fight together. We'll figure this out as a team, like we always have. Like the Pogue Nest. That wasn't just a treehouse. It was a symbol of our unity."

"Exactly," Elyna chimed in. "And like you said, we can rebuild that unity anywhere we go. It doesn't have to be just there. We can create it anywhere we want."

The words of her sister and her cousin wrapped around Kaylee like a warm blanket, reassuring her after the long, trying day that had nearly tore down all the faith she had held.

Kaylee nodded, squeezing both Kie and Elyna's hands. "Thank you."

Kie and Elyna smiled in return.

"The others are going back to the Chateau," Kie explained. "Do you want to come with us?"

"Not yet," Kaylee answered. "Tomorrow's the plane heist. I just need some time alone before it starts. To think things through. Just... tell them I'm okay and I'll see them in the morning before everything kicks off."

Kie and Elyna nodded in understanding, able to see why Kaylee would need some time alone after everything she went through today alone.

"Okay," Elyna agreed. "Just... call us to let us know you're good, okay?"

"Of course," Kaylee agreed. "I'll be back at the cabin before long. Just need to clear my head before everything starts tomorrow. I'll be good as new before it starts."

Kie and Elyna wrapped their arms around Kaylee. Kaylee sighed in relief as the three girls shared a prolonged embrace, the comfort uniting the Carrera sisters and their cousin in a way all three girls needed for a long moment. After a few minutes, they pulled away, sharing a small smile.

Kie and Elyna turned around, walking down the pier to join the other Pogues to let them know that Kaylee would be okay but that she needed time alone, something that all the Pogues understood knowing what tomorrow would hold for her - and what today was like for her. So they all went their separate ways, letting Kaylee take her time to calm and settle her mind and emotions for the night so she could be the best version of herself in the morning.

Isa and Lia both took Kie by the hands, pulling their girlfriend closer to comfort her after the chaos of her family party.

"Are you okay, Kie?" Lia asked worriedly.

Kie's eyes flickered with uncertainty, but the warmth of Isa and Lia's grip grounded her. "I don't know. It's just... everything feels so messy right now."

Isa squeezed Kie's hand tighter, her expression softening with empathy. "It's okay to feel that way. We all do. But you have us. We will face this together."

Lia nodded in agreement, brushing a strand of hair behind Kie's ear. "And we won't let anyone tear us apart. Not Topper, not Mike, no one."

Kie looked between them, her heart swelling with gratitude. The love and solidarity radiating from her girlfriends washed over her, reminding her that despite the chaos around them, they were a united front.

Kie's eyes flicked around at the gathering crowd, watching as the party resumed - laughter and music spilling out against the backdrop of the ocean under the moonlight - but she felt distant from it all. "What if this is how it is now? What if our family never sees us as anything but a mess?"

"You are not a mess," Isa added, stepping closer, placing her free hand on Kie's cheek. The warmth of her touch brought Kie back to the moment. "The way you stood up to them, that took a lot of courage, Kie. We're all standing together in this."

"We're right here," Lia agreed softly as she kissed Kie on the head.

Isa stroked Kie's hair as she pulled her closer. Kie allowed Lia and Isa to envelop her into their warm and loving embrace, melting into their arms, soaking up their love and attention, basking in it.

As the embrace lingered, Kie felt her heartbeat steadying, the warmth of Isa and Lia's love wrapping around her like a protective shield. She closed her eyes, letting the moment wash over her, pushing away the echoes of anger and discontent from earlier.

Finally, pulling back slightly, Kie looked into their eyes. "Thank you for being here. I don't know what I'd do without you two."

Isa smiled softly, brushing her thumb across Kie's cheek. "You'll never have to find out. We're in this together, remember?"

Lia nodded enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling with determination. "We'll face whatever comes next as a team. And we won't let anyone bring us down."

Just a short distance away, Wheezie came to comfort Elyna after the debacle with her family. "Are you okay?"

Elyna took a deep breath, the adrenaline from the confrontation still coursing through her veins. She forced a smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... a lot to process. You know how family can be. You know, I jus wanted things to be different when I came back. I thought maybe we could have fun as a family again, like we used to. But Uncle Mike is completely different, and Aunt Anna is an absolute pushover. They'll never accept Kaylee, or me, Dad and Mom. They're even starting to push Kie away. It's just... a lot."

Wheezie nodded, her expression empathetic. "I'm sorry. But what you did earlier with Topper... You stood up for us. That was incredible, Elyna."

"Thanks," Elyna replied, her voice slightly shaky. She watched as the party continued behind them, laughter and music swirling like a whirlwind of chaos that felt distant from her tumultuous emotions. "I love taking assholes like Topper down when I get the chance, though. I just hate that things with my family came to that."

"You stood up for us when it came to them, too," Wheezie pointed out gently. "You did what you had to do."

Wheezie stepped closer, wrapping an arm around Elyna's shoulders. Elyna was surprised by the gesture, but immediately comforted by it as she relaxed in her embrace. It was more than a symbol of friendship, and they both knew it went well past those boundaries, but neither of them could voice that yet.

"You protected Sarah from Topper, you stood up for Kaylee and Kie," Wheezie pointed out. "And everyone else. That's what matters."

Elyna leaned into Wheezie's warmth, grateful for the support. "I just wish it didn't feel like we were always fighting against someone."

"Me too," Wheezie agreed. "But thank you. For defending my sister and making Topper promise to stay away from her."

Elyna gave Wheezie a small smile in return. "I had to. After Topper almost attacked you, Lia and Sarah, how could I ever let him get near you three ever again, Wheezie?"

Wheezie's heart swelled at Elyna's fierce protectiveness. "I know you would always have my back, but it still means a lot to hear you say that. Elyna... You make me feel safe, especially with everything that's been happening."

Elyna nodded, her expression serious as she met Wheezie's gaze intimately. "We need to look out for each other, especially now. Family isn't just about blood; it's about who stands by you through thick and thin."

As they continued to watch the party unfold, Wheezie felt a renewed sense of determination. "We can make our own family. The Pogues and us, we're stronger together. No matter what Mike or anyone else thinks."

Elyna smiled brightly, the heaviness of earlier moments lifting slightly. "Exactly! We're a force to be reckoned with."

Wheezie nudged Elyna playfully. "And if anyone thinks they can mess with us - like Topper or Kelce - well... they just learned how wrong they are."

Elyna laughed, the noise making Wheezie's heart flutter as she smiled, a blush rising to her cheeks as they met each other's gazes as if they were the only people on the beach.

Elyna's laughter mingled with the distant music, the sound spilling over Wheezie like a warm tide. There was something electric in the air between them, a connection that felt both exhilarating and terrifying. For a moment, all the chaos of the past weeks faded away, leaving only the two of them standing together.

"You know," Elyna said softly, her gaze lingering on Wheezie's face. "It's nice to have someone who gets it. Someone who's willing to fight alongside me, no matter what. It's been a long time since I've had that."

Wheezie felt a warmth blossom in her chest at Elyna's words. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere else but here with you. We're in this together. Always."

Elyna smiled softly. "We should get home and get some rest for tomorrow."

Wheezie nodded nervously in agreement. "Right. Tomorrow's the big day. Plane heist. We need to be at 100%."

"Definitely," Elyna agreed. "But don't worry, Wheeze. I have complete confidence that you will be at 1000% percent."

Wheezie felt a pleasant warmth breeze through her as she smiled slightly at Elyna's words. "Really? You think so?"

Elyna nodded. "After seeing your skills? Absolutely. Just gotta believe in them as much as I do."

Wheezie's heart raced at Elyna's praise, a mix of nerves and excitement swirling within her. "Thanks, Elyna. That means a lot, really. I just - sometimes I worry if I'm really cut out for this."

"You are," Elyna said firmly, her gaze steady. "You've already proven yourself time and again. This heist? It's just another challenge for you to conquer."

Wheezie took a deep breath, drawing strength from Elyna's unwavering confidence. "Okay, okay. I can do this."

Elyna grinned, taking Wheezie's hand in hers for just a moment, giving it a gentle squeeze before letting go. "Alright then!"

Wheezie's eyes widened slightly. "Oh, what about the outfits - or costumes - that we'll have to wear on the plane?"

Elyna smiled wickedly. "Oh, leave that up to me. Do you doubt me? I got us these epic party outfits. I'll get us killer outfits for the plane, don't worry."

Wheezie's heart skipped a beat at the thought of dressing up for the heist, curiosity piquing in her mind. "You really went all out, huh? I can't wait to see what you have planned."

Elyna chuckled, a playful glint in her eyes. "Oh, you have no idea. Think sleek, think stealthy, but with a flair that screams 'we're here to steal your gold and look fabulous doing it.'"

Wheezie couldn't help but smile at Elyna's enthusiasm, her heart racing with both nervousness and exhilaration. "I trust your vision. You've been incredible at every step of this journey. You always know how to make things exciting."

Elyna grinned, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Just wait until you see what I have in mind. Trust me, we'll be the most unforgettable duo on that plane."

Wheezie chuckled, imagining he elaborate designs Elyna might conjure. The idea of them working side by side, not just as allies in a heist but as partners in style, made her giddy with excitement. "I can't wait."

Elyna smiled, offering Wheezie her arm. "Come on. Let's go home and rest up. We need all we can get for tomorrow."

Wheezie linked her arm with Elyna's, feeling a surge of warmth and camaraderie as they made their way down the pier. The atmosphere around them pulsed with energy, but a sense of calm settled over Wheezie as she focused on Elyna beside her.

The cool night air washed over them, invigorating and refreshing against their flushed skin. The stars twinkled overhead, a reminder of the beauty that still existed amid the chaos of their lives. Wheezie took a deep breath, filling her lungs with the salty scent of the ocean mixed with the distant sounds of laughter and music from inside The Wreck.

"I can't believe tomorrow's the day," Elyna said, glancing at Wheezie with excitement. "This is it. All our planning comes down to this moment."

"Yeah," Wheezie replied, her heart racing at the thought. "It feels surreal. But I know we're ready."

Elyna nodded in agreement. "We definitely are."

Their laughter faded into a comfortable silence as they reached the end of the pier, the sound of the waves crashing against the posts echoing in the stillness. Wheezie felt a sense of peace wash over her, grounded by Elyna's presence beside her.

"You know," Elyna started, breaking the silence. "This whole journey has been more than I expected. I didn't just come back to Outer Banks for the thrill of theft and adventure. I came back for family, and I found something unexpected."

Wheezie turned to look at Elyna, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean?"

Elyna's gaze softened as she met Wheezie's eyes. "I mean, I thought I was here to reconnect with my family, but what I've really discovered is a new family with you all - the Pogues. You guys are everything I missed while I was away."

Wheezie felt her heart swell at Elyna's words, warmth spreading through her, feeling the weight of the moment settle upon her. "Just promise me one thing."

"Anything," Elyna replied, her voice steady and sincere.

Wheezie's heart raced as she felt the gravity of their mission sink in deeper.

"That we'll stick together, no matter what happens tomorrow. No matter how chaotic it gets."

They both knew they could die tomorrow, and they couldn't risk a thing.

Elyna turned to face her fully, a fierce determination shining in her eyes. "You have my word. We're in this together, Wheezie. Always."

As they reached the end of the pier, Wheezie paused for a moment, looking out at the shimmering water under the moonlight. The waves rolled gently, lapping against the wooden beams with a soothing rhythm that calmed her nerves. It was hard to believe they were on the brink of something so monumental - a heist that could change everything for them.

"If we pull this off, we could expose the Laurents and send them to prison," Wheezie pointed out. "And we could get the pardons for you, for Gael, for Kaylee. Do you think that you'll really be free? That you'll be able to stay in Outer Banks?"

Elyna smiled hopefully. "I really hope so. I don't want to keep running. I want to stay with Kaylee and Kie. I want to stay with the Pogues. And I want..."

Elyna gazed at Wheezie, unsure if she should say it or not. She was unsure if it was too soon to say what she wanted with Wheezie.

Wheezie looked at Elyna, her heart racing with a mix of hope and nervousness. "What do you want... Ely?"

Elyna took a deep breath, weighing her words carefully. "I want to build something real, Wheezie. A life where I'm not just running from my past but facing it head-on—everything included. That means being here, with you, my family and the Pogues."

Wheezie's heart raced at the implication of Elyna's words, her voice barely a whisper. "And... what about us?"

Elyna's gaze intensified, locking onto Wheezie's with an earnestness that made her pulse quicken. "I've felt something special between us from the moment we met. You make me feel seen in a way I haven't felt in years. Like maybe we can find our way through this chaos together."

Wheezie's breath caught in her throat, a mix of excitement and anxiety swirling inside her. "I want that too. I want to be able to explore what this could be... even with everything going on."

Elyna stepped closer, her voice softening. "Then let's take it one step at a time. After tomorrow, once we pull off the heist and get everything sorted out with the Laurents, I want to be able to focus on us. Figure out what this could be. If it could be anything."

Wheezie's heart soared at Elyna's words, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "I'd like that. A lot."

Elyna smiled gently, the tension in the air thick with unspoken promises. "Good. But first, let's make sure we survive this crazy plan of ours."

With a shared sense of determination, they both took a step back from the water's edge, laughter bubbling up as they started to walk away from the pier and head their way home.

As they walked away from the pier, the laughter and chatter of the party behind them faded into the background, replaced by the sound of their footsteps against the wooden boards. The cool night air felt refreshing, invigorating, as they made their way back toward the cabin.

"So," Elyna began, glancing sideways at Wheezie with a teasing grin. "What's your official plan for surviving chaos tomorrow? You know, in case it all goes sideways?"

Wheezie chuckled, her heart still racing from their earlier conversation. "Well, step one is to stay close to you and let you handle any confrontation that comes our way."

Elyna raised an eyebrow playfully. "Ah, so I'm your designated bodyguard now?"

"Absolutely," Wheezie replied with a wink. "You've proven yourself worthy of the title."

Elyna laughed lightly, her mood lifting as they approached the cabin. "I'll take that as a compliment then!"

"I might even ask you to teach me how to fight eventually," Wheezie admitted.

Elyna grinned. "I think that's a great idea."

As they continued walking home, they both laughed and chatted all the way there.

⚓️

Heyward Storage Unit

Pope and Cleo were looking through the storage unit, scanning the dust-covered cardboard boxes and other items in the locker.

Pope looked over to Cleo. "Yeah, this was all our old family history. They kept it from me. My dad too." He showed Cleo a picture. "This is my mee-maw. She was the one who knew we were Tannys."

Cleo examined the picture from over Pope's shoulder with a smile. "She's sweet. Reminds me of my granny."

"She held us all together," Pope said quietly, then shook his head, placing the picture down. "All right, let's keep looking. See anything?"

Cleo found a picture, showing it to Pope. "Is this that Tanny guy who owned that lake house I lived in?"

Pope nodded. "Yeah, it's Denmark Tanny. You know the story. Fugitive slave turned landowner. He had three sons who survived him."

Cleo found a wax-sealed envelope in the book she was searching through, picking it up, reading the name on the envelope. "Did he have a daughter too?"

Pope turned around, and his eyes widened, walking closer to see. "Let me see that." Cleo handed him the envelope. Pope traced his fingers over the stamped wax. "Wheat symbol. Clarice Tanny. Yeah. Yeah, this was the daughter. She was raised in the Limbrey plantation. Wait, we have a family tree in here somewhere."

Pope rummaged around.

Cleo sighed, turning the envelope over in her hand. The envelope was old and yellowed, never opened. "I don't even know where to start looking."

Pope turned around, looking up at a shelf overhead. "Hold on." He climbed up the shelf, grabbing the papers on top of it, climbing down. "Ha! Bingo." Cleo turned to face him as they both joined each other at the table, standing close. Pope spread a scroll, the family tree, out over the small table in the unit. His eyes roved over the names, then he finally spotted who he was looking for. "Here she is. Clarice Tanny." He took the envelope again, frowning. "He must have sent this to her. But look, it's never been opened." He paused, his eyes flicking over to Cleo. "Should I open it?"

Cleo smiled. "You see anyone here who can stop us? Open it!"

Pope broke the wax seal and flipped open the sealed envelope. He pulled out a piece of smooth, yellowed paper, reading aloud. "'Dearest Clarice, I apologize for writing the letter which will most likely reach you after my death.' It's from Denmark. 'I also apologize, I've never met you, and I'm your father.' They never let him see her."

They walked out of the unit to get some fresh air in the night, while still reading the letter.

"Um, he's talking about her brothers, the family legacy, and the Royal Merchant," Pope explained. "'The priest was often delirious, but in a moment of clarity, he spoke of an idol and a city of gold.'" Pope gasped slightly. "Priest. Lia said that the priest was the one that found the gold that was on the ship, mentioned in the diary."

Cleo nodded in understanding.

Pope continued to read. "'I believed it to be the rantings of his fever but...'"

Pope pulled out a second piece of paper from the envelope, his eyes widening.

It was a translation key with symbols and their meanings, with the wheat symbol on the bottom.

Pope knew exactly what it went to, realizing that this might have actually helped him help his friends get closer to saving their father. "Oh, my God."

⚓️

Beach

Kaylee walked along the beach alone.

Kaylee took a deep breath, allowing the salty breeze to fill her lungs. The chaos of the day faded away, replaced by the gentle lapping of waves against the wooden posts.

She paused on the sand, staring out at the dark water stretching endlessly before her. The moonlight shimmered on the surface, casting a silver glow that felt almost ethereal. In that moment of solitude, she could almost forget the chaos that had unfolded earlier - facing Fenton after setting fire to Singh's estate with him inside, nearly being arrested, the accusations, her father's harsh words, the tension of being thrust into an unwinnable battle for acceptance.

But as much as she tried to find peace in the beauty around her, thoughts of her family and what lay ahead weighed heavily on her mind. Tomorrow would bring new challenges - the heist, the Laurents, and whatever fallout awaited once they faced their enemies. Tomorrow would be all or nothing. If they survived, then the Pogues would give everything they had to making it down to South America and saving Big John. Making it to El Dorado and finding the gold. Changing their lives forever.

Maybe they could do it all.

It felt like wishing for the impossible, but Kaylee hoped and prayed that after losing everything time and time again, that they would finally have their wins.

Kaylee was so caught up in her thoughts that she didn't realize that she was being followed by the bounty hunter that Cian and Genevieve Laurent hired to bring her to them to punish her themselves for the death of their son Tod. Even if they were more than willing to pay a half billion in gold to kill Kaylee and the entire island of people around her - all of the people she cared about - they wanted the chance to punish her personally if given the opportunity as well.

Rafe was walking on the dock just above when he saw the shadowy figure following Kaylee, sensing the danger that was coming, eyes widening worriedly in alarm. "Kaylee!"

Kaylee's heart raced at the sound of Rafe's voice. She looked up just in time to catch a glimpse of movement from the corner of her eye. A shadow darted behind one of the nearby palm trees, too quick to identify but close enough to make her skin crawl.

Before she could process, the figure lunged from the shadows, moving with a predatory grace that sent a chill down her spine. Instinct kicked in, and Kaylee stepped back, preparing to defend herself with whatever strength and fighting skill she had as she reached into her bag for her lighter and aerosol hairspray.

Rafe sprinted down the dock, his instincts honed as he sensed the imminent danger.

Kaylee barely had time to react as the dark-clad figure lunged toward her, punching her in the stomach, making her double over as he shoved her against the sand.

As Rafe leapt off the dock and darted across the sand, he lunged forward with a wide swing, punching the bounty hunger fiercely in the face. The bounty hunger ducked another swing, kneeing Rafe in the stomach, turning to slam Rafe into the side of the dock, spinning around to throw him into the railing.

Rafe shoved the man off of him, punching him in the chest, kicking him back, grabbing the man's arm, twisting it around behind his back, turning around to slam him against the side of the dock instead.

The man broke free, elbowing Rafe in the face, making him stumble back, spinning to face him, grabbing Rafe by the back of the neck to try and push him against the wall. Rafe wrestled free as he shoved the man against the railing of the dock.

With his back still against the railing, the bounty hunter kicked Rafe off of him, grabbing Rafe by the shoulders, spinning them as he slammed Rafe's head against the railing. As the hunter flipped them over the ground, he slammed Rafe down against the sand, leaving him stunned against the ground.

As the hunter stood to go back for Kaylee, he saw that Kaylee was already standing and ready for him. Kaylee ran closer with a yell, aiming her knee for the bounty hunter's head, striking him in the temple. The hunter's head jerked back as she made contact, stumbling back slightly.

Recovering on the sand, Rafe hurriedly untied his party tie from around his neck as he got an idea.

The hunter grabbed Kaylee by the shoulder, spinning them around to slam her face first against a palm tree, making her groan in pain. Kaylee threw her elbow back into the hunter's face, making him loosen his hold enough to spin to face him, trying to punch him in the face. The hunter ducked, punching Kaylee in the face and kicking her in the chest, sending her stumbling back.

Rafe came up from behind the bounty hunter, holding his party tie within his hands, wrapping it around the hunter's neck to restrain him from behind. "Kaylee! Light it up!"

With Rafe holding the hunter in his restraint, Kaylee had time to strike her lighter and use her aerosol hairspray to create her makeshift flamethrower to defend herself once again.

With a sudden burst of adrenaline, Kaylee aimed the makeshift flamethrower at the hunter, her heart pounding as she flicked the lighter's flame to life. A jet of fire shot out, catching the hunter off guard as it singed his collar and forced him to let out a terrified yelp.

"Back off!" Kaylee shouted, her voice fierce.

The flames danced ominously in front of her, providing both a shield and an outlet for her pent-up fear, rage and darkness.

Rafe tightened his grip on the hunter, pulling him back slightly to keep him from lunging toward Kaylee again and to also keep himself from being burned. The bounty hunter struggled against Rafe's hold, panic flashing in his eyes as he felt the heat lick around him.

"Let me go!" the hunter roared, but his words were drowned out by the crackling of fire.

"Not a chance," Rafe growled, his resolve hardening as he leaned forward with all his weight, pushing the hunter against the railing and toward the flames. "Who the hell are you? Who sent you?"

The bounty hunter glared at Rafe with a mixture of defiance and fear, his eyes darting between the flames and Kaylee's determined stance. "You think this is going to intimidate me? I'm just doing my job."

"Your job?" Kaylee shot back, her voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through her veins.

Rafe tightened his hold around the hunter's neck, pressing him closer to the hot metal of the railing, the temperature rising from the fire that Kaylee kept aimed at the hunter. "Tell us who sent you or I swear I'll make you regret even coming here."

The hunter sneered, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes as he felt the heat from Kaylee's makeshift weapon wash over him. "They don't care about you, Cameron. Cian and Genevieve Laurent want their revenge for what's happened to their son. You can't hide from them, Carrera. Even if I failed them tonight, they'll go through with their payment with Leviathan, and you and everyone you love, everyone on this island will die in days' time."

With the hunter's words hanging in the air like a death knell, Kaylee felt the cold grip of fear clench around her heart. "You think threatening me is going to work?" she challenged, her voice steady despite the tumult within.

Rafe's jaw tightened, and he pulled the hunter closer, forcing him against the railing just enough to remind him of the danger surrounding them. "We're not afraid of whatever twisted game you're playing."

"You should be," the bounty hunter spat, his eyes narrowing defiantly. "You have no idea what you're up against."

Kaylee exchanged a glance with Rafe, their unspoken understanding deeper than any words could convey. She would not allow fear to dictate her life any longer - not after everything she had fought for.

"We know exactly what we're up against," Kaylee retorted. "But they don't."

Just as the bounty hunter broke free from Rafe's restraint to try and attack Kaylee again, Kaylee used her makeshift weapon to completely burn him entirely this time.

A burst of flames shot forth from Kaylee's makeshift weapon, engulfing the bounty hunter in a sudden rush of heat and light. The startled look on his face contorted into one of pure terror as he instinctively raised his arms to shield himself, but it was too late. The flames caught hold of his shirt, melting the fabric and searing his skin.

The bounty hunter screamed, stumbling backward as the fire licked at his chest and face, and Rafe and Kaylee quickly moved to avoid the furious thrashing of the man now desperate to escape the flames.

In that moment of chaos, the man nearly attacked Kaylee, attempting to retaliate while he was on fire to harm her with the chaos she helped create.

Rafe seized the chance to tackle the bounty hunter to the ground, rolling with him in the sand as they struggled for control, ensuring that he wouldn't harm Kaylee with the flames, even if he was burned in the process.

Kaylee's heart raced as she watched them grapple, her breath hitching in her throat.

"Get off me!" the hunter shouted, trying to shove Rafe away.

But Rafe's grip was strong, bolstered by adrenaline and determination.

As Kaylee watched the hunter's fight weaken the more he was burned, she realized that she felt even less guilt, shame and hesitation that she felt when she set fire to Tod, Cian and Fenton, not when it came to protecting herself and the others around her, even if it meant embracing the darkness inside. The horror of the scene still registered in her mind, but not for her own actions, but the actions of what the bounty hunter attempted to do to her, what the Laurents were willing to do to her and everyone she loved and the entire island - and what their actions were pushing her to do to ensure her survival.

Rafe watched Kaylee's reaction to the entire ordeal, lifting the bounty hunter's now-frail form from the ground and hauling him toward the ocean, dunking his flaming head and chest into the waves to put out the flames. Rafe left him under longer than necessary to ensure that he was too weakened and close to unconsciousness to make sure that the hunter wouldn't try to attack them again.

As Rafe finally pulled the now-drenched bounty hunter from the water, he staggered back, panting heavily as the adrenaline coursed through him. The man lay limp on the sand, his clothes soaked and smoldering, rendered powerless in the face of Kaylee's wrath and their united front.

Rafe glanced over at Kaylee as she took in the sight of the bounty hunter's burned face with wide eyes that reflected a mix of disbelief and steely determination. She had witnessed the transformation within herself - from a girl constantly running from her fears to someone who had willingly embraced the darkness for her survival.

"You okay?" Rafe asked, his brow furrowed with concern as he took a step toward her.

Kaylee nodded slowly, still processing what had just happened. "Yeah... I think so." Her voice trembled slightly, but it was laced with an unexpected strength that surprised even herself.

"Good," Rafe replied, his voice firm despite the lingering tension. "Because we need to figure out what to do with him."

Kaylee glanced down the beach. "Dump him off the pier and let's get the hell out of here. I just... need to be as far away from here as possible."

Rafe accepted that easily. "The cabin, or..."

Kaylee shook her head minutely. "Anywhere else but there. I can't deal with their concern right now."

Rafe nodded in understanding. "Go wait in my truck. I'll deal with this asshole."

Kaylee nodded gratefully as she turned around and quickly walked to the beach parking lot, hurrying before anyone could see her or what they had done, looking back as she saw Rafe dealing with the bounty hunter as quickly as he could.

They knew the bounty hunter wasn't dead, but dumping him off the pier would buy them time. When he would wake up in the ocean, he would be confused and lost, and he wouldn't come looking for him. He would lose any chance he had in coming after them before the plane heist would begin, and that was all they needed.

⚓️

Rafe's Truck

(Song:) Shadow Preachers - Zella Day

Kaylee sat in Rafe's truck, the roller coaster of the day running through her head. Everything felt like it was going to explode in her mind, and the only thing she thought was that she wanted to distract herself and escape from it all. She wanted to forget it all and clear her mind of it so that she could be the best version of herself for tomorrow so that she could help the best she could for the plane heist.

She kept replaying how Rafe told her that it didn't make her the bad guy for allowing herself to escape and even use him to escape and distract herself from everything in her life, to forget all of her pain.

She even replayed how JJ said he didn't blame her for the way he knew that things had changed between her and Rafe after the way he pushed her toward him since returning to the island. How he said that he wouldn't blame her if she did use Rafe to forget all of her troubles and if she needed to figure her feelings out for herself with Rafe, because he knew that she loved JJ above all else. Knowing that JJ wouldn't hold it against her if she kissed Rafe, or went further than that, it took all of her guilt away. It felt like a pressure melted away that she hadn't realized had been holding her back.

Kaylee knew she had to figure this out for herself. And she wanted to. She needed to.

When Rafe returned to the truck, he drove them to Tannyhill in relative silence. Rafe knew that she was lost in her thoughts and allowed her to be, comfortable and just letting her sort through them all knowing how much she went through today.

⚓️

Tannyhill Estate - Outside

When they reached Tannyhill, Rafe pulled the truck over and got out, circling around to open the door for Kaylee, offering her a hand. Kaylee took Rafe's hand, letting him help her out of the truck, hopping gently down as he closed the door behind her.

Kaylee gazed up at Rafe, her decision seemingly made as she wanted to forget everything else just for one night and figure things out between them if she could tonight.

"Rafe," Kaylee said softly, her heart racing as she took a step closer. "Thank you for tonight. I don't think I could've faced that guy without you."

Rafe met her gaze, warmth spreading through his chest at her words. "You handled yourself pretty damn well out there, Kaylee. You were incredible."

Kaylee took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the night settle around them. "But I also realized today... that I can't keep running from who I am. You were right about one thing. I can't keep running from the darkness. It's not who I am entirely, but I can't run from it and lock it away and expect it to be okay."

"You don't have to run from anything," Rafe replied earnestly, stepping closer as he searched her eyes for understanding. "You're stronger than you know, and I'm here for you... whatever you decide."

Kaylee bit her lip, her pulse quickening as she stared up at him, feeling the pull between them grow stronger under the moonlit sky.

Rafe reached up to tuck a curl of Kaylee's hair behind her ear. "You okay?"

"I will be," Kaylee replied softly. "I just... I want to forget everything right now. Everything can wait until tomorrow."

Rafe smiled slightly at her words, nodding. "I can help with that."

Kaylee returned with a slight smile of her own. "I'm hoping you might."

Rafe's breath caught in his throat at her words, the implication behind them, and a flicker of hope ignited with him.

"Let's go inside," Rafe suggested, leading Kaylee toward the sprawling estate.

The soft glow of lights flickered through the windows like beacons in the night, guiding them into the warmth of Tannyhill.

⚓️

Inside - Rafe's Room

Kaylee allowed Rafe to lead her to his room, his hand never leaving hers as he guided her along into his sanctuary.

"Are you sure about this?" Rafe murmured.

Kaylee responded by closing the door behind them.

Kaylee's heart raced as the door clicked shut, sealing them in a world that felt entirely separate from the chaos outside. The room was dimly lit, shadows dancing across the walls from the soft glow of a lamp in the corner. It smelled faintly of sandalwood and something uniquely Rafe - comforting yet intoxicating.

Kaylee turned to face Rafe, searching his eyes for any hint of hesitation.

"I am sure," Kaylee whispered, her voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions swirling within her. "I need to forget everything. Please."

Rafe took a step closer, the distance between them shrinking until they were mere inches apart. "You know I'm more than happy to help you forget."

Rafe's eyes locked onto Kaylee's with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine.

With a sudden rush of boldness, Kaylee reached up to cup Rafe's cheek, her thumb brushing against his skin. She could feel the heat radiating off him, pulling her in like gravity.

Rafe's eyes darkened with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine as he reached up, brushing a thumb along her cheek, grounding himself in this moment. Kaylee leaned into his touch for a second, closing her eyes briefly.

Rafe drew Kaylee closer until their lips were mere centimeters apart, their breath mingling together as Kaylee closed the distance between them.

Their lips met in a gentle yet electrifying kiss, quickly becoming much more passionate, igniting a fire within her that she had thought extinguished.

Rafe deepened the kiss, his hands finding their way to her waist, pulling Kaylee closer as if he was afraid she would disappear if he let go. Kaylee melted against him, surrendering to the moment, her worries and fears evaporating with each passing second as the two let everything else fade away, entwined in this moment of reckless abandon.

When they finally pulled away, both breathless, Rafe searched Kaylee's gaze for any sign of regret or doubt, finding none.

"Wow," Rafe breathed, his voice barely above a whisper. "You really know how to make a guy forget everything else."

Kaylee chuckled softly, a glimmer of mischief in her eyes. "I thought that was your job tonight."

Rafe smirked. "You do it well, too. Though I am glad to be of service."

Rafe's hands slid down to grip Kaylee's thighs. In one swift motion, he lifted her up, pinning her against the wall. Kaylee wrapped her legs around his waist instinctively, grinding against him.

"That's it, firebird," Rafe panted, trailing hot kisses down her neck. "Let it all out."

Kaylee's head fell back against the wall as Rafe sucked and nipped at her pulse point. Her fingers tangled in his hair, tugging sharply. Rafe hissed in pleasure-pain, biting down harder on her neck in return.

Kaylee gasped at the sharp sensation, a mix of pain and pleasure shooting through her. She yanked Rafe's head back by his hair, looking into his eyes with a fierce intensity.

"You don't get to mark me," Kaylee growled.

Rafe's eyes darkened with lust. "No? Then how about you mark me instead?"

Without waiting for a response, Rafe crashed his lips back to hers in a bruising kiss. Kaylee bit down hard on his lower lip, drawing blood. Rafe groaned in pleasure, the coppery taste filling both their mouths.

In a flurry of movement, clothes were shed and tossed aside. Rafe carried Kaylee to the bed, laying her down and covering her body with his own. His hands and mouth seemed to be everywhere at once, leaving trails of fire on her skin.

"Do you like this?" Rafe asked.

Kaylee nodded breathlessly. "Don't stop."

Rafe ran his thumb across Kaylee's bottom lip. "You have no idea how much I've wanted to do this. To have you like this... just for me."

Rafe licked his bottom lip, circling his hands around Kaylee, pulling her into him, making her eyes open in surprise, his eyes never leaving hers, leaning into her, his head bowed to rest against hers.

"Only ever wanted you," Rafe murmured, kissing her, hands over every inch of her body. "Wanna make you feel good. I'll take care of you."

Kaylee arched into Rafe's touch. She raked her nails down his back, leaving red marks in their wake. Rafe hissed in pleasure as he kissed his way down her body until he set his lips down at her core.

Kaylee's breath hitched as she felt his mouth attach to her heat, gasping loudly as his tongue flicked against her.

The sensation was electrifying, sending shockwaves through her body as she arched up into him, her fingers curling into the sheets in a desperate attempt to ground herself.

"Rafe," Kaylee gasped, urgency lacing her voice. "That feels... oh, my God."

Rafe looked up at her, eyes dark with desire and an unyielding determination to please.

"You deserve this," Rafe murmured against her skin before diving back in, swirling his tongue expertly as he teased and coaxed her closer to the edge.

Kaylee's heart raced, the shame and fear from earlier fading into a distant memory. All that mattered was the fire building inside her, igniting with each flick of Rafe's tongue. She gripped the sheets tighter, biting her lip to suppress the cries threatening to spill from her mouth.

Rafe's mouth moved with a slow, deliberate hunger, sending waves of heat coursing through Kaylee. She squirmed beneath him, an intoxicating mix of pleasure and urgency flooding her senses.

"Rafe," Kaylee gasped, her fingers threading through his hair as she instinctively pulled him closer.

Rafe looked up at her, eyes darkened with desire, a smirk teasing at the corners of his mouth. "You like that?"

"Yes," Kaylee breathed out, her body arching in response to his every move. "Don't stop."

Rafe returned to his task with fervor, licking and sucking as Kaylee writhed beneath him, lost in the overwhelming sensations flooding her body. Every flick of his tongue sent jolts of pleasure coursing through her.

As Kaylee's breaths turned ragged and desperate the closer she got to the edge, Rafe increased the intensity, determined to push her over. After everything she went through today alone, he wanted to make her feel the best he could in one single night.

Kaylee's heart raced as Rafe's relentless focus sent her spiraling closer to the brink. She could feel the waves of pleasure building within her, growing stronger with every skillful flick of his tongue.

Kaylee gasped, losing herself in the moment. "I can't... I'm so close."

Rafe's eyes sparkled with mischief as he looked up at her, a breathless smile gracing his lips.

"Good," Rafe murmured before diving back in with renewed vigor.

With each movement, Rafe coaxed a chorus of broken pleas from her lips, urging him on as he worked tirelessly to bring her to the edge.

Kaylee felt the tension coiling tighter and tighter within her, every nerve ending alive with anticipation as Rafe's relentless attention drove her closer and closer to the precipice. She could feel the world around her fading away, leaving only the heat of Rafe's body against hers and the intoxicating pleasure he was giving her.

Rafe's eyes flickered up to meet hers, and in that moment, Kaylee could see the fierce intention burning within him. He responded by focusing all of his energy on creating that wonderful edge of ecstasy for her, teasing and coaxing until she was practically begging for release.

With a final, determined flick of his tongue, Rafe sent Kaylee spiraling over the edge. Waves of pleasure crashed over her like a tidal wave, drowning out everything but the sensations that ripped through her body.

Kaylee's body quaked as the waves of pleasure washed over her, each pulse sending her further into euphoria. She gasped, her fingers tightening in Rafe's hair as she surrendered completely to the sensations consuming her. The world around her faded into a blur, leaving only the intoxicating connection between them.

Rafe slowed his movements, guiding her gently through the peak of her release before finally pulling away. He looked at her with a mix of pride and desire, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

"That was... incredible," Kaylee panted, still trembling from the aftershocks. Her heart raced, every cell in her body alive and buzzing.

Rafe chuckled softly, his gaze lingering on her flushed face. "Told you I wanted to take care of you." He leaned closer to kiss Kaylee gently on the lips. "And that's only the beginning."

As Rafe grinded against Kaylee's core, he searched her eyes one last time. "Are you sure you want to do this?"

Kaylee nodded, her choice made.

With a low groan, Rafe pushed inside her. Kaylee gasped, her body tensing at the intrusion. Rafe stilled, giving her time to adjust.

"Relax, firebird," Rafe murmured, brushing his lips against her temple. "I've got you."

Slowly, Kaylee's body began to relax. She nodded, signaling Rafe to continue. He started to move, setting a steady rhythm. Kaylee's hips rose to meet his thrusts, her body responding instinctively.

As the pleasure built, Kaylee found herself getting lost in the sensations. Her hands roamed Rafe's back, feeling the flex of his muscles with each movement. She pulled him closer, needing to feel more of him.

Rafe's pace increased, driving into her harder and faster. Kaylee cried out, her nails digging into his shoulders.

"That's it," Rafe growled, his voice thick with desire. "Let it all go, Kaylee."

Kaylee's world narrowed to the rhythm of Rafe's movements and the pulse of pleasure coursing through her. Each thrust sent waves of ecstasy radiating through her body, igniting her senses like a wildfire. It was as if every worry she'd carried had evaporated, leaving only this moment - the heat, the connection, the intimacy of their shared breath.

"Rafe," Kaylee gasped, squeezing her eyes shut as she succumbed to the sensations enveloping her. "So good."

"Just for you," Rafe murmured, his breath hot against her neck as he continued to drive deeper. The urgency between them escalated, an intoxicating dance of need and desire that spiraled higher with each passing second.

Kaylee dug her heels into his back, urging him on as she lost herself in the raw vulnerability of the moment. She could feel him responding to her every movement, their bodies perfectly in sync.

Kaylee felt herself breaking apart with every thrust. As Rafe's breath quickened, she could sense that he was close too. She wrapped her legs tighter around his waist, urging him on as she met his fervent thrusts.

Rafe used one hand to circle Kaylee's clit while his other hand massaged each of her breasts in turn, maximizing her pleasure as much as he possibly could as he captured her lips in a heated kiss, igniting a fire that burned brighter than anything she had ever felt before.

As their kiss deepened, the world around them fell away entirely. Every sound faded, leaving only the rush of blood in their ears and the rhythmic pounding of their hearts. Kaylee surrendered completely to the sensation, each thrust and massage of his fingers at her core and his hand on her chest igniting a fresh wave of pleasure that cascaded through her body.

"Rafe," Kaylee moaned between kisses, her voice trembling with need. "I can't... I can't hold on much longer."

"Let go," Rafe urged softly, his breath hot against her ear as he quickened his pace. "Just let it happen."

With those words, something inside Kaylee snapped. The pressure building within her reached a peak, and she could no longer hold it back. Without warning, she felt herself tumble over the edge again. Waves of ecstasy surged through her, each pulse bringing new heights of sensation as she cried out, the sound mingling with the rush of pleasure that exploded through her body.

Rafe's grip tightened around Kaylee as he thrust deeper, chasing his own release while drawing hers out further. He could feel the pulse of her body around him, tightening like a vice as Kaylee surrendered fully to the ecstasy as Rafe followed her over the edge.

Rafe's release hit him like a freight train, the sensation washing over him with undeniable force. He groaned, his body taut as he buried himself deeper into Kaylee, feeling her warmth envelop him completely. The world around them spun in a dizzying blur of color and sound, consumed by the intensity of the moment.

Kaylee clung to Rafe as he trembled above her, both of them riding the aftershocks of their shared pleasure. A soft sigh escaped her lips as she basked in the aftermath, the warmth radiating between them making her heart swell.

Rafe slowly pulled back, their foreheads resting against each other as they both tried to catch their breath. His gaze held a mixture of awe and adoration, and for a fleeting moment, all the chaos outside vanished - leaving only their connection and the vulnerability they had just shared.

"That was... incredible," Rafe breathed, brushing a thumb along Kaylee's cheek as if trying to memorize every detail of her face.

Kaylee couldn't help a small smile. "Do I live up to your expectations?"

"Everything and more," Rafe affirmed.

Kaylee chuckled softly. Rafe leaned in to press his lips against Kaylee's once more, savoring the taste of their shared moment. The kiss was tender yet electric, filled with both a vow for an ending or a promise for a beginning.

Rafe frowned in thought. "I know that you needed an escape, and of course, I'm happy to provide, as I always am. I told you that. I'm not looking too deep into it. But this seems deeper than that."

Kaylee swallowed, looking down. "I'm trying to figure things out. What everything means. With you, me. JJ."

Rafe raised his eyebrows, nodding. "Oh."

"I still love him," Kaylee admitted. "I don't think I'll love anyone the way I love him."

"I know that," Rafe admitted. He glanced at Kaylee knowingly. "But you know something's different with us now too. And I'm guessing so does he. That's what brought this on."

"What brought this on is that I needed it," Kaylee replied. "I needed to figure this out for me. Not for him and not for you. But for me."

Rafe couldn't help but smile at that slightly. "Fair enough. So where does that leave us?"

Kaylee took a deep breath. "It leave us figuring shit out like we always are, I guess."

Rafe nodded, the hint of a smile still playing at his lips. "I can handle that. Even if tonight is the only night that we get to be together like this, it's a night I'll be happy with for the rest of my life."

Kaylee met his gaze, seeing the sincerity in his eyes, her own eyes glassing over slightly. "When you say things like that, it pisses me off. Because it makes everything more complicated and confusing."

Rafe smirked a slight smile, a genuine warmth radiating from him as he laughed lightly at Kaylee's classic response as he leaned in closer, their foreheads touching once again. "You're used to that by now."

The moment hung between them like a fragile thread, and Kaylee could feel the vulnerability enveloping them both, tethering them despite the complications and their history, and the storm brewing outside. And the chaos that awaited them ahead.