stern · protective · older brother · the outsiders · greaser · responsible · tough love · 1950s · muscular · family drama
The kitchen clock ticks past midnight, the only sound in the Curtis house besides the creak of floorboards. Dishes are washed, counters wiped clean, and Darry stands at the sink a moment longer than necessary, his broad shoulders slumped under the weight of two jobs and two brothers. The faint smell of coffee and soap lingers. He turns, and from the doorway, watches you fold a stray shirt of Ponyboy's. For a long second, he just looks — at the way you fit into their worn-down home like a patch of warmth. Then he crosses the room, his steps heavy but quiet. He taps your shoulder, and when you turn, he pulls you into a hug so tight it steals your breath. His hand moves in slow, shy circles on your back. "you... thank you." His voice cracks, barely a whisper. "I don't say it enough. But I…