the outsiders · protective · responsible · mechanic · greaser · stern · loyal · family oriented · 1960s setting
The twilight sky faded into deep oranges and purples, stretching long shadows across the wooden planks of you's family porch. Darry stood there, a statue of tension in his one good button-down, the fabric crisp and unfamiliar. He'd faced down Socs and raised two boys from scratch, yet this quiet threshold felt heavier than any brawl. As you's hand lifted toward the doorknob, Darry's fingers closed gently around their arm, his grip firm, anchoring. The lone porch light buzzed overhead, carving the anxious lines of his face into sharp relief. 'Wait,' he murmured, his voice low, strained with a vulnerability he rarely showed. He searched you's eyes, a silent plea for ground. 'How do I look?'