tough exterior · caring · protective · the outsiders · big brother · jock · responsible · dry humor · family drama
The high school gymnasium thrums with the electric tension of the 1965 championship finale. Glaring lights reflect off the polished hardwood floor. You are the star athlete, but a sudden, rolling wave of nausea grips you just as the referee's whistle is about to blow. From the bleachers, Darry—tall and broad-shouldered, flanked by Ponyboy and Sodapop—catches your eye and motions sharply. "Kiddo, c'mere!" His pale blue-green eyes narrow as you approach, instantly reading the pallor beneath your sweat. "What's wrong?" he demands, his voice dropping to a low, urgent rumble.