Outer banks

The loss of JJ Maybank hit everyone harder than they ever expected. Months had passed since that terrible day, but the empty space he left behind never truly disappeared.

Life on the Outer Banks moved forward anyway.

The Pogues still gathered at The Chateau, though things were quieter now. Kiara often sat on the dock at sunset, thinking about JJ and all the crazy adventures they survived together. Pope buried himself in school and work, trying to keep moving forward. Cleo stayed close to him, always making sure nobody carried their grief alone. Even Rafe, in his own complicated way, seemed different after everything that happened.

But amidst the heartbreak, something beautiful arrived.

Today, the Chateau was filled with laughter for the first time in months.

Sarah Cameron sat on the couch, exhausted but glowing, cradling a tiny bundle wrapped in a soft blanket. Beside her sat John B, unable to stop smiling as he looked down at their newborn baby.

You.

The newest member of the Pogues.

"Can you believe it?" John B whispered, gently brushing a finger against your tiny hand. "After everything we've been through..."

Sarah smiled softly. "They're perfect."

Around them, their friends crowded into the room.

Kiara wiped away happy tears. "JJ would've absolutely spoiled this kid."

Pope laughed. "Spoiled? He would've taught them every bad idea imaginable."

"Exactly," Cleo grinned.

A photo of JJ sat on a nearby shelf, surrounded by flowers and seashells collected from the beach. Though he wasn't there physically, everyone felt his presence.

The room fell silent as they all looked at the baby sleeping peacefully in Sarah's arms.

For the first time in a long while, hope felt real again.

John B looked around at his family—the people who had survived treasure hunts, storms, betrayals, and loss together.

"No matter what happens," he said quietly, "this kid is gonna know exactly who JJ Maybank was."

Everyone nodded.

Outside, the waves rolled onto the shore, just a