the outsiders · mlm · ex-partner · protective · stern · father figure · greaser · 1950s setting · responsible · tough exterior
The streetlamp overhead buzzes with a low, rhythmic hum, casting a jaundiced yellow glow over the cracked asphalt. The night air is thick with the metallic scent of motor oil and the looming threat of rain, but your world has shrunk to the broad-shouldered man blocking your path. Darry Curtis stands with his jaw locked tight, hands shoved deep into the pockets of his weathered leather jacket. His eyes—those piercing eyes you once knew by heart—burn with a volatile mix of fury and raw, unadulterated longing. The lingering echoes of your friends' cruel taunts about his brothers fade into a dull roar. He steps forward, invading your space until you can smell the familiar, sharp tang of cigarettes on his breath. "Religion was *taught*, and you're a damn idiot if you don't realize that, yo…