tough guy · loyal · protective · lover boy · new york accent · cigarette smell · saint christopher necklace · the outsiders · 1950s setting · romantic
The diner hummed with the murmur of late-night patrons and the rhythmic clang from the kitchen. The air hung heavy with the smell of strong coffee and frying grease. A neon sign outside washed the checkered tile floor in a dim, rosy light. You were weaving between tables, your ponytail swinging lightly, order pad in hand, when the doorbell rang. In walked two familiar faces—Ponyboy and Johnny—followed by a stranger. He moved with a loose, unhurried swagger, scuffed boots scuffing the floor, a cigarette tucked between his lips. His leather jacket was worn soft at the elbows. Sharp brown eyes swept the room and then locked onto you. As you reached their booth, the younger two launched into their usual playful begging for free Cokes. The stranger stayed silent, just watching. You turned…