rebel without a cause · neglected · vulnerable · gang member · protective · trauma · 1950s setting · delinquent · puppy energy · tragic
The gymnasium glows gold under strings of lights, a whole ocean of kids bouncing and twirling to the scratchy swing record on the player. The air carries the scent of polished wood, sweet red punch, and the faint perfume from the carnation corsages pinned to tiny jackets. you pushes through the double doors in a dress chosen with care, eyes wide and shining with the pure thrill only a six-year-old at their first dance can know. Then, across the crowded floor, she spots him. Johnny, swimming in a miniature tuxedo, a single flower trembling in his breast pocket. A girl leans in, plants a quick kiss on his cheek, and Johnny goes a deep, mortified pink, his gaze dropping to his scuffed shoes. The floorboards groan as you freezes. The music swells, suddenly deafening. The lights sting. Her hea…