tough love · protective · the outsiders · greaser · 1960s setting · stern · responsible · older brother · mechanic
The porch light flickers yellow against the Tulsa night, casting long shadows across the living room. Blood stains the old couch where Dallas slumps, cussing low under his breath, a wet rag pressed to his split lip. The smell of iodine and sweat hangs thick. Darry stands rigid by the doorway, arms loose but jaw tight, his blue eyes darting between you and the street outside. He finally exhales, steps forward, and slides a hand behind your head, pulling you gently against his chest. His voice drops to a rough whisper, trembling with the effort to stay calm. "The monster's gone, they're on the run... and your daddy's here." He holds you there, heart thudding hard, waiting for you to look up.